The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List
Canals, cafes, and everything in between discover the ultimate Amsterdam bucket list for the best adventures the city has to offer.
There is no place in the world quite like Amsterdam. The city’s charm and allure are unmatched and will make you want to visit this enchanting city time and time again. Although Amsterdam is a relatively small city it is full of things to do and see.
As someone who has lived in Amsterdam for 5 years, I have seen and done A LOT. With many adventures under my belt, I can confidently say I know the top things to do in Amsterdam for an unforgettable experience.
This is why I have created the ultimate Amsterdam bucket list to guide you to the best of the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in the city.
This Amsterdam bucket list includes cultural, experiential, and food-based activities all of which are must-dos while in the city. Try to check them all off while visiting Amsterdam to become an honorary dutchie.
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In This Post
The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List
Short on time? Here is everything you need to know!
5 Things you CANNOT MISS while in Amsterdam
➡️ Picnic in Vondelpark
➡️ Explore the Jordaan
➡️ Go to a Museum (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, Anne Frank House)
➡️ Enjoy Dutch food (stroopwafels, fries, cheese)
➡️ Go on a Canal Cruise
🚤 CLICK HERE to book the highest-rated CANAL tour in AMSTERDAM
Two BEST hotels in Amsterdam
➡️ The Conservatorium Amsterdam
➡️ The Dylan Amsterdam
Have a Drink at Cafe Brandon
Visiting Café Brandon is a needed addition to your Amsterdam bucket list. As one of the oldest bars in Amsterdam, Cafe Brandon offers a unique experience with its historical significance and traditional Dutch charm.
Enjoying a drink here is a typical Dutch experience where you will be joined by plenty of other Dutchies after 5 PM enjoying evening drinks with friends or coworkers.
Rent a Bike
Renting a bike is a must while visiting Amsterdam. The city itself has more bikes than people and the best way to immerse yourself in the local traditions is by renting a bike and exploring the city this way.
However, biking in the city can get pretty hectic which is why I suggest a calm bike ride through the beautiful Vondelpark. Vondelpark is the biggest and most popular park in Amsterdam and has the perfect wide paved paths for people to bike on.
Alternatively, you can join a tour for a more relaxing and guided experience.
Have a Picnic in Vondelpark
Having a picnic in Vondelpark is one of the best things to include on your Amsterdam bucket list – and a personal favorite of mine! Vondelpark, the largest and most famous park in Amsterdam, is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city.
With its endless grass areas, little ponds, and winding pathways, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic.
You can pick up snacks and wine from a nearby grocery store (there are a ton) and sit and enjoy the show. Watch the locals go about their daily activities, enjoy the hectic bikes zooming around, and soak in the vibrance that is Amsterdam.
💡 In a hurry? Discover everything you need for your trip to Amsterdam in one place!
🚂 Book your trains here.
🏨 Best Hotels in Amsterdam here.
📖 More details on the top hotels in Amsterdam here.
❤️ Get Health Insurance for Amsterdam HERE.
Walk Around the Jordaan
Walking around the Jordaan neighborhood is an Amsterdam bucket list must-do. The Jordaan is one of the city’s most famous and picturesque areas, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and unique atmosphere.
This former working-class district has transformed into a trendy area filled with art galleries, boutiques, cozy cafes, and traditional brown bars.
Strolling through the Jordaan, you’ll experience a blend of the artistic, the quaint, and the contemporary, all while soaking in the quintessential Amsterdam charm.
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Eat a Stroopwafel
Eating a stroopwafel is a must-do for any Amsterdam bucket list. Stroopwafels are a delicious Dutch treat, made up of two thin waffles with a caramel-like syrup filling in the middle.
They are a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can find them fresh and warm at local markets or in specialty shops throughout Amsterdam.
Enjoying a stroopwafel while wandering through the city’s streets or sitting alongside a canal adds a sweet touch to your Amsterdam experience. Stroopwafels are not just a snack; it’s a taste of Dutch tradition.
Try Poffertjes
Poffertjes are a classic Dutch food. They are simply mini pancakes that are fluffy and almost sphere-shaped.
You can find these from various street stands around the city, and most definitely in one of the many street markets. Eat them with a little bit of icing sugar and you are set!
Go to the Anne Frank House
Amsterdam is beautiful and thriving today, but it has a dark and profound past that no one should forget or ignore. Amsterdam was impacted by World War Two and was invaded by the Nazis.
Over one hundred thousand Jewish people were exported to concentration camps from Amsterdam and one way we remember this tragic time is with the Anne Frank House.
Anne Frank was a young girl during WW2 and kept a diary to journal her experiences. She was hiding behind a bookcase inside a home in Amsterdam and was unfortunately found and sent to Auschwitz.
She died there but left behind her diary which has become the best-selling book. Visiting the house she was hiding in is moving and a must while in Amsterdam to remember a past that should not soon be forgotten.
Eat Dutch Cheese
The Netherlands is famous for its cheese. There is a cheese shop around every corner and on every street. Head into one and you will find a bunch of free testers! The cheese flavours range from beer to colored pesto and more.
➡️ CLICK HERE to book the ultimate Amsterdam food TOUR!
Go on a Canal Cruise
The best way to see Amsterdam is by boat. The whole city center is comprised of a ton of canals and navigating around them is the easiest way to see the city in its entirety.
There are a ton of canal cruise companies in Amsterdam that offer one-hour tours and will show you the highlights of the city.
If you are feeling brave and visiting with a large group you can even rent your own boat from a company such as Mokum Boat and tour the canals by yourself.
➡️ CLICK HERE to book the highest-rated CANAL tour in AMSTERDAM
Go to a Street Market
Amsterdam is a city that loves street markets! There is one in almost every area of the city all full of flower stands, fresh food, little trinkets, and souvenirs!
The best ones are Albert Cupy Market, Lindengracht Street Market, and Pekmarkt. Just be sure to check the hours on Google before you plan to go! Some are only open once a week and hours vary.
Go Shopping on the 9 Streets
The 9 streets is a famous area made up of 9 streets that holds some of the best shops and restaurants in the city. The streets are located in the stunning Jordaan area of Amsterdam and are a must-see.
Be ready to see some of the most unique and trendy shops in the city, and even pick up a few things along the way. Discover more of the best boutiques in Amsterdam here!
Have a Coffee at De Koffieschenkerij
Amsterdam is a city with one of the best coffee cultures in the WORLD! I love exploring all the different cafes and finding hidden gems.
One of the coolest and most uniquely “Amsterdam” cafes is De Koffieschenkerij. A cafe located in a former church compound.
☕️ Check out this post for the best cafes in Amsterdam
Go to The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the biggest museum in Amsterdam and is full of amazing pieces of art.
The museum is three stories and is packed with different exhibits and pieces such as Rembrandt’s Nacht Watch and some Van Gogh pieces.
➡️ CLICK HERE to book the top rated tour of Rijksmusuem and Van Gogh!
Find the Secret Library
Inside the Rijksmuseum is a not-so-secret library that is breathtaking! Be sure to go find it on your Amsterdam adventures and snap a few photos along the way.
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Walk the Red Light District
The Red Light District is one of the more polarizing attractions of Amsterdam, however, visiting it while in Amsterdam is something you should do.
It is quite interesting to see such a taboo subject celebrated so publicity and it really is like nothing you have seen before.
See Dam Square
Dam Square is home to the royal palace, Madame Tussauds, and the main monument. Honestly, I don’t love this area of the city, but it’s one of those bucket list things you have to see for yourself and make your own judgments.
See a Dutch Windmill
Many people come to Amsterdam and want to see an authentic Dutch windmill and luckily this can be done with ease. My favorite way is to take one of the most simple day trips from Amsterdam by train and head to Zaanse Schans.
Zaanse Schans is a picturesque open-air museum near Amsterdam, showcasing traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, workshops, and crafts from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting Holland’s industrial heritage.
Kiss on Magere Brug
The Magere Brug, or “Skinny Bridge,” is a famous and picturesque bridge in Amsterdam, crossing the Amstel River. Its romantic and quaint setting makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Legend says kissing your lover on the Magere Brug ensures that your love will last forever. This makes it a favorite spot for couples and a picturesque location for a memorable moment in the heart of Amsterdam.
Visit a Rooftop Bar
There are not very many rooftop bars in Amsterdam, but when you find one you will see some of the most magical views of all of Amsterdam. The best ones are SKylounge and the A’DAM Tower.
The ADAM tower is higher and located in Amsterdam Noord, however, Skylounge is classy and a great place for a good drink, with a great atmosphere and an even better view.
Apple Pie at Winkel 43
In the Jordaan area of Amsterdam, you can find the best apple pie in the city. At Winkle43 there is a constant line out the door of people drolling over this delicacy! Be sure to get there early to snag a seat and try this delicious treat.
Have you done everything on this Amsterdam bucket list? If no, then what are you waiting for!
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Love,
SSW
