Amsterdam – 15 must see locations

Amsterdam fondly referred to as the “Venice of the North,” is a city that teems with charm and intrigue. With its elegant canals, narrow houses, friendly people, and artistic heritage, Amsterdam has so much to offer. Here are 15 places that should not miss when you visit this fascinating city.

1. Rijksmuseum: One of the most popular museums in Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts. It features works from some of the Dutch Golden Age’s most renowned artists, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. Website
2. Van Gogh Museum: Home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, this museum provides a comprehensive overview of the artist’s life and works. Don’t miss masterpieces like “The Potato Eaters” and “Sunflowers”. Website
3. Anne Frank House: A poignant memorial to one of the Holocaust’s most famous victims, this museum is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. It’s an essential visit for anyone wanting to understand Amsterdam’s history. Website
4. Canal Ring: The city’s 17th-century canal ring area, known as the “Grachtengordel”, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A canal cruise offers an unforgettable perspective of the city’s picturesque waterfront and historic buildings. Website
5. Heineken Experience: For beer lovers, this interactive museum offers a glimpse into Heineken’s rich history and brewing process, and includes a tasting room experience. Website
6. Royal Palace of Amsterdam: Situated on Dam Square, this palace serves as the King’s residence when he is in the city. Its grand interior is open to the public for most of the year. Website
7. Jordaan District: One of the most famous neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, Jordaan is renowned for its picturesque canals, charming boutiques, and cosy pubs. It’s also home to the Anne Frank House. Website.
8. Stedelijk Museum: This museum focuses on modern and contemporary art and design, showcasing works from the early 20th century to the 21st century. Website
9. De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets): A shopper’s paradise, this neighbourhood offers a mix of designer boutiques, vintage shops, and cosy cafés. Website
10. Vondelpark: The largest city park in Amsterdam, Vondelpark is perfect for a picnic, leisurely walk, or bike ride. Website
11. Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market): As the world’s only floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt is a colourful spectacle and a haven for lovers of plants and flowers. Website
12. Rembrandt House Museum: Step into the former residence of the legendary Dutch artist, Rembrandt, and discover his etchings and personal artifacts. Website
13. Amsterdam Museum: If you wish to understand the city’s rich history, from its origins to the present, this museum should be on your itinerary. Website
14. Oude Kerk (Old Church): Amsterdam’s oldest building and oldest parish church, the Oude Kerk presents an exquisite blend of medieval architecture and contemporary exhibitions. Website
15. Begijnhof: This tranquil courtyard, one of the city’s oldest hofjes (almshouses), is a quiet oasis in the city’s heart, and home to the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam. Website

Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a compact city with an excellent public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to navigate. You can choose between trams, buses, ferries, and the metro, all operated by the GVB (Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf). You can plan your journey and buy tickets on their Website.

If you prefer a more active form of transport, cycling is a popular choice in Amsterdam. You can rent bikes from various providers such as MacBike.

For a more relaxed experience, you can explore the city’s beautiful canals by boat. There are several boat rental companies, but one of the most popular is Canal Motorboats.

Uber also operates in Amsterdam, and the app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

Amsterdam Weather by Season

Amsterdam’s vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse attractions make it a destination to visit any time of the year. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, foodie, or just love to explore, Amsterdam has something for everyone.