Amsterdam is known for many things; including the obscure, beautiful houses, the canals and the red light district. It’s an incredible city with a plethora of things to do and explore.
You can easily spend weeks exploring the capital of the Netherlands, but it’s likely you’re only visiting for a short period of time. So, I’ve put together a list of the must-see places in Amsterdam, which you could easily do over a weekend with a bit of planning!
I Amsterdam Sign
One of the most iconic things in Amsterdam is the sign! It was first installed in 2004 as part of a marketing campaign, and sixteen years later it’s become a part of Amsterdam. The letters sometimes move around the city, so it’s best to do your research before you visit to track down where they are.
Anne Frank House
One of the most well-known historical buildings in the world, Anne Frank’s House was the home where Anne and her family were hiding from the Nazi’s during the war. It’s an incredibly chilling place to visit, but it’s also really moving visiting.
1.2 million people visit every single year from all around the world, so if it’s something you’d like to visit when you’re in Amsterdam, it’s essential to book way in advance as the tickets sell out.
Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum is the most visited museum in Amsterdam, home to art from 1200 to 2000 from artists such as Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer. In addition, Rijksmuseum features the oldest and biggest art history library in the Netherlands, with a magnificent spiral staircase, perfect for a picture. The architecture of the building is pretty iconic too; it’s also the only museum in the world you can cycle through!
Heineken Experience
One of the most well-known beers across the world, Amsterdam is home to the Heineken brewery, which is where the whole story began. In the 1.5 hour tour, you’ll learn everything you’d ever want to know about the brand, including the brewing process, before ending the tour sipping on a nice cold beer.
A’DAM Lookout
Boasting incredible views over the city, Adam Lookout is an observation deck where you can see for miles across Amsterdam. Grab a drink or a bite to eat and take in the wonder of Amsterdam. There’s also a swing too, where you can literally swing over the edge!
The Red Light District
Amsterdam is actually home to three Red Light Districts, but the one most will know, and visit is De Wallen. Full of sex shops, brothels and sex museums, it’s likely you’ve heard about this district, and it’s likely you’ll want to make a visit when you’re visiting Amsterdam.
At night the district is alit with red lights, which is where the name comes from. Don’t take pictures though, as it’s forbidden!
Van Gogh Museum
Maybe one of the most iconic paintings in the world was painted by Van Gogh. In the museum, you’ll see his plethora of iconic paintings, the techniques he used to paint the masterpieces as well as learn more about his life. It’s the second most visited museum in Amsterdam, and it’s essential to buy a ticket in advance if you do want to visit.
Albert Cuyp Market
Incredible food, plenty of souvenirs and the usual things you can pick up at a market, Albert Cuyp Market is the largest and most popular market in Amsterdam. Rich in history, the story began back in 1905 and has become one of the most loved places in Amsterdam for locals and tourists. You can even pick up some real or fake tulips, which is the flower most well-known in relation to Amsterdam.
Amsterdam has been one of my favourite places, and there really is so much to see and do, but I hope my list of the must-see places in Amsterdam has helped you to plan your visit! If you’re visiting Amsterdam for three days, why not check out my itinerary?
If you’ve visited Amsterdam before, which places would you say are a must-visit? Let me know!
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