27 Best Amsterdam Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in 2024

If you’re heading to Amsterdam, you may be wondering what you should see and do during your time in the city. Do not fear, I have you covered with his post on the best Amsterdam tourist attractions and things to do.

Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or someone who just wants to enjoy the scenery, Amsterdam is a beautiful city with something for everyone. I’ll give you all you need to know to make your trip to this iconic city a wonderful experience.

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Planning a trip to Amsterdam? Make sure to use these travel resources:

Travel Insurance: Insure My Trip
Accommodations: Expedia
Flights: Skyscanner
Tours: Viator

Best Amsterdam Tourist Attractions & Things to Do

If you’re wondering what the best Amsterdam tourist attractions are, look no further! This list is designed to help you find the best things to do and to help you plan your trip. Whether you are on a European cruise or visiting the city as part of a land tour there won’t be a lack of things to fill your time.

1. Take a Canal Boat Ride

Amsterdam is famous for its canals and seeing the city from the water is one of the best ways of exploring. Whether you take a private sunset cruise or choose to sail during the day, there really is no wrong or bad choice as to when to take your canal boat ride. So, just in case you’re wondering if a canal boat tour is worth it, it is!

During your time onboard, you will pass popular Amsterdam tourist attractions such as art museums, and the Anne Frank House, and sail alongside beautiful neighborhoods. Make sure to have your camera ready as you’ll be clicking away to capture all the beautiful scenery. Taking a canal boat ride in Amsterdam is a great way to get an introduction to the city.

Are canal boats in Amsterdam wheelchair accessible?

There is good news if you are visiting Amsterdam in a wheelchair, there is one canal boat company that is wheelchair accessible! The Blue Boat Company has a lift-equipped boat that allows for easy loading and unloading for wheelchair users.

When booking your cruise, make sure to choose the Stadhouderskade 501 departure location. Then email the company to let them know the date and time you will be traveling and that you will be in a wheelchair. They will make all the arrangements so you can enjoy this fabulous tour.

2. Visit the Anne Frank House

One of the most recognized tourist attractions in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. It has been turned into a museum and preserved in remembrance of the little girl who hoped to become a writer and kept a diary of her experience hiding from the Nazis before she was ultimately captured and died in a concentration camp.

Visitors will get the opportunity to see her original diary on display as well as explore the space where her family hid. The house and museum are a moving and emotional experience that reminds guests of the atrocities that occurred during World War II.

Make sure to purchase your tickets online far in advance of your trip as they sell out quickly. Tickets are not available to purchase the day of or in person.

Wheelchair Accessibility at the Anne Frank House

Steep steps are required for accessing the area where Anne’s family hid. However, the museum does offer a virtual reality tour for people with mobility problems and wheelchair users so that they can experience the attic for themselves. The museum section is also wheelchair accessible.

3. Van Gogh Art Museum

One of the best art museums in Europe is the Van Gogh Museum. During your visit, you will see some of this artist’s most famous works including “A Starry Night”. You will also learn more about the life of Van Gogh and see the progression of his pieces over time.

Multimedia presentations and interactive exhibits depict Van Gogh’s life and educate visitors about this incredible artist. The museum also has an audio guide available in several languages, which provides detailed commentary on the artworks throughout the museum.

Accessibility at the Van Gogh Museum

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with a level entrance and spacious galleries that can accommodate wheelchair users. Elevators and lifts are also available, providing access to all levels of the museum. There are also wheelchair ramps and lifts throughout the building, and visitors can request a wheelchair from the information desk free of charge.

Visitors with disabilities can also receive discounted admission rates, and one accompanying person is granted free entry. Service animals are also welcome in the museum. This includes free admission for accompanying sign language interpreters.

In addition, the museum offers audio guides with detailed descriptions of the artworks, available in several languages. Furthermore, the museum has tactile replicas of Van Gogh’s paintings, providing visitors with visual impairments with a tactile experience of the artworks. Finally, if you have difficulty distinguishing colors, the museum offers the use of EnChroma glasses on request free of charge.

☑️ Save time and purchase your tickets ahead of time to skip the line and make the most out of your time in Amsterdam by clicking here.

4. Rijksmuseum Art Museum

This museum boasts an extensive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters. Guests can expect to see a diverse range of artworks from different time periods, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and decorative arts.

Aside from its impressive collection, the Rijksmuseum is also known for its stunning architecture. The building was designed by the Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers and features a grand entrance hall, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate decorations.

One of the most famous artworks in the museum is Rembrandt’s “Night Watch,” a monumental painting that captures a group of civic guardsmen in action. The painting is displayed in its own gallery, and visitors can get up close and personal with this masterpiece.

Accessibility at the Rijksmuseum Art Museum

The Rijksmuseum is fully wheelchair accessible as there is an entrance with an elevator and ramps and lifts throughout the museum. However, the Phillips wing is too small for large mobility scooters. If you are able to transfer, you can request to use one of the manual wheelchairs available at the information desk to see this area. Accessible bathrooms are also available.

Special tours are available for the visually impaired so that they can touch objects on exhibit. Additionally, there are also specific tours available for those visitors with dementia so they can enjoy the museum. Finally, when the museum app is downloaded to your smartphone, it can be compatible with Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids.

Free admission is available for a care companion if you can’t navigate the museum independently.

It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons.

☑️ Get your skip-the-line tickets by clicking here.

5. Tour the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam, also known as the Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam, is a grand 17th-century building located in the heart of Amsterdam. The palace is open to visitors, offering tours that provide a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich history and culture.

Throughout the tour, visitors can learn about the history and significance of the palace, as well as the Dutch monarchy and its role in modern Dutch society. Guided tours are available in several languages, including English, and last approximately 45 minutes.

During your time in the palace, you can explore the palace’s opulent rooms and halls, which were originally designed as the town hall of Amsterdam. The palace features impressive marble floors, ornate ceilings, and exquisite artwork, including works by renowned Dutch artists.

One of the highlights of the tour is the grand Citizens’ Hall, a vast space that was used for public gatherings and official events. The hall is adorned with intricate decorations and features a beautiful ceiling painting by Jacob de Wit.

Visitors can also see the Royal Apartments, which are still used by the Dutch royal family for official receptions and ceremonies. The apartments are lavishly decorated with 17th-century furniture, tapestries, and artwork.

Wheelchair Accessibility at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam

A ramped entrance at the center-right at the front of the building makes the palace wheelchair accessible. An elevator inside the palace allows visitors with mobility problems and wheelchair users to access both floors that are on the audio-guided tour. Additionally, there is an accessible bathroom on the ground floor.

6. Check out the Red-Light District

The Red Light District, also known as De Wallen, is a popular tourist destination in Amsterdam known for its infamous red-lit windows, where sex workers offer their services. Regardless of any feelings you may have about this area, visitors should be respectful of the sex workers and remember that they are working professionals.

While the district’s reputation is often associated with prostitution, there are several other reasons why people visit this part of Amsterdam.

One reason people visit the Red Light District is for the novelty and unique atmosphere. The district is located in Amsterdam’s historic city center, with narrow streets lined with cafes, bars, and shops. Visitors can explore the area’s charming architecture, including Amsterdam’s oldest building, the Oude Kerk, and take in the area’s bustling energy.

Additionally, the Red Light District is known for its vibrant nightlife. The area is home to several bars, clubs, and coffee shops, where visitors can enjoy a night out in Amsterdam.

One of the best ways to explore this district is by taking a private tour. During your time in this infamous area, you’ll learn to separate fact from fiction about how prostitution came to be legal and get an introduction to Amsterdam’s coffee shop culture. Your local guide can also make recommendations on the best clubs and bars should you want to venture back on your own.

☑️ Get to know the real history behind the red light district by booking your private tour here.

7. Amsterdam Museum

This combination of art and history museum provides an overview of the history of Amsterdam from its beginnings to the present day. It includes exhibits on the city’s role in trade and commerce, its development as a cultural center, and its role in shaping Dutch national identity.

Visitors will enjoy wandering through the collection of over 100,000 objects and artworks, including paintings, photographs, documents, and everyday objects that provide insight into life in Amsterdam.

8. Visit the Bloemenmarkt Flower Market

The Bloemenmarkt Flower Market is one of the world’s most famous flower markets, attracting millions of visitors each year. Visitors will love its unique atmosphere as the market is located on floating barges along the Singel Canal, making for a unique and picturesque shopping experience.

Additionally, visitors can purchase souvenirs such as tulip bulbs and traditional Dutch clogs, making it a great place to pick up gifts for friends and family or even for yourself.

Bloemenmarkt Flower Market is also a perfect spot for photographers and social media influencers as the colorful displays of flowers make it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy shots.

9. Take a Stroll through Vondelpark

This park features beautiful landscapes, including gardens, ponds, and open green spaces. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Amsterdam when you need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Visitors can choose to just relax or take part in one of the several activities that Vondel Park has to offer such as cycling, jogging, picnicking, and playing sports. There are also several playgrounds for children. While you’re wandering through the park, make sure to keep an eye out for the statue of the Dutch poet Vondel and Pablo Picasso’s “fish” sculpture.

During the summer months (June-August) park goers can also enjoy several free concerts in the open-air theater. You can check the theater’s website for a schedule of events and to reserve tickets.

10. Rembrandt House Museum

Another one of Amsterdam’s tourist attractions is the Rembrandt House and Museum. As you may have guessed, this is where the famous artist lived and created many of his masterpieces.

Guests will get to tour the house in order to get a glimpse into the life of this well-known artist before heading to the attached museum where some of Rembrandt’s most famous works are on display including his etchings, drawings, and paintings.

Wheelchair Accessibility at the Rembrandt House Museum

Since the house itself was built in the 17th century and is considered a historic site, it is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. However, the museum that displays his artwork is fully accessible through the use of elevators. An accessible bathroom is also onsite.

11. Nemo Science Museum

When traveling to Amsterdam with kids, a visit to the Nemo Science Museum is a fun way to spend the day or afternoon. This iconic Amsterdam landmark offers plenty of interactive science exhibits that have instructions and information in both English and Dutch and focus on everything from electricity and light to chemistry and the human body.

Additionally, parents and kids alike will enjoy the rooftop terrace which features a cafe, a water feature for the kids to play in (so bring extra clothes), and incredible views of the city.

Wheelchair Accessibility at the Nemo Science Museum

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with the exception of the rooftop terrace. There are elevators between floors and accessible bathrooms onsite. Some exhibits are better suited for wheelchair users (due to height) and you can ask staff for recommendations.

☑️ Don’t wait in line and get your tickets in advance by clicking here.

12. Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art

If you haven’t exhausted yourself with the many wonderful art museums in Amsterdam, consider making a stop by the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. While many of the other art destinations in the city focus on art from the past, this museum highlights more modern art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

During your time in the museum, you can see a wide variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and videos. These collections include works by Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, Vincent van Gogh, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.

The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions each year, showcasing the work of both established and up-and-coming artists. These exhibitions often focus on contemporary themes and issues, making the museum a relevant and thought-provoking destination.

Accessibility at the Stedelijk Museum

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with the use of elevators and lifts. Mobility scooters are also able to navigate most of the museum with the exception of STEDELIJK BASE, however, manual wheelchairs are available upon request. Accessible parking is also available.

Furthermore, caregivers are given free entry with proper documentation, and registered service dogs are also permitted.

The museum also offers specialized tours for people with dementia and their families. Check the website for details on times and availability.

13. The West Church

The Westerkerk or the West Church. It is one of the largest and most famous churches in the city, and it is also one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area. It was even mentioned in the Diary of Anne Frank as it the bells could be heard from where her family hid in the attic.

The church is also significant because of its historical connections to the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt. He is buried in an unmarked grave somewhere in the churchyard, and it is believed that he may have been a regular attendee of the church during his lifetime.

Today, the Westerkerk is still an active church and is open to visitors who wish to attend services or explore its rich history and beautiful architecture. It is also a popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam and is often included in guided tours of the city.

The main entrance at Prinsengracht 279 is wheelchair accessible.

14. Hermitage Amsterdam

This museum was once associated with the Hermitage Museum in Russia, however, since the conflict with Ukraine, the Hermitage Amsterdam has severed ties with Russia.

Guests who choose to visit the Hermitage Amsterdam can enjoy beautiful works of art, historic buildings, and interiors, as well as a peaceful garden. The pieces on display are carefully curated to tell a story and allow you to enjoy each piece without feeling overwhelmed.

Although historic, the museum is also wheelchair-accessible. There are lifts and pathways that allow people with mobility problems and wheelchair users to enjoy the full experience. Accessible toilets are also onsite.

15. Heineken Experience

For beer lovers visiting Amsterdam, this is a must-see tourist attraction. The Heineken Experience is a guided tour of the first and original Heineken factory.

Throughout this informative and interactive tour, you’ll learn about the beer-making process and the history behind how Heineken became so popular. Of course, you’ll get samples along the way and at the end have a chance to practice pouring your own drink.

16. Explore the Jordaan Neighborhood

The Jordaan exudes a unique and charming atmosphere that captures the essence of Amsterdam’s old-world charm. With its narrow streets, picturesque canals, and quaint houses, the neighborhood retains its historic character and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. It has a cozy and inviting ambiance that attracts both locals and visitors alike.

Originally a working-class neighborhood, it has evolved into a vibrant hub of art, music, and creativity. The area is dotted with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, showcasing the artistic and bohemian spirit of Amsterdam. Visitors can explore the local art scene, discover unique crafts, and enjoy live music performances in the neighborhood’s various bars and venues.

Best Amsterdam Tours

While there is plenty you can do on your own in Amsterdam, there are some activities that are better done on a tour. This section will go over the best Amsterdam tours as additional things to do when you’re in the city.

17. Amsterdam Food Tour

Along with snacking, you’ll also get to sample some of Amsterdam’s finest craft beers. So bring your appetite and get ready to enjoy several samples of incredible and yummy local foods.

This tour is wheelchair accessible and meets at Albert Cuyp Market.

☑️ Bring your appetite and get your Amsterdam food tour tickets by clicking here.

18. Wine and Cheese Tasting

This is an intimate and personal experience (but not private) and guests rave about how unique the tour is and set in a lovely ambiance. If you are a wine lover, then this is a must-do tour in Amsterdam. The tour is also wheelchair accessible.

19. Zaanse Schans Windmill Village

Zaanse Schans is located in a picturesque setting alongside the Zaan River. The combination of the windmills, the tranquil waterways, and the surrounding countryside creates a charming and photogenic atmosphere that is perfect for photography lovers. It’s also an ideal place to take leisurely walks, capture beautiful photos, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

During a tour like this one, visitors can step back in time and experience traditional Dutch culture and architecture. The area is dotted with historic buildings, traditional houses, and workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques like cheese making, clog carving, and chocolate production. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s cultural heritage.

Some of the tours can accommodate wheelchair users if they are able to transfer to regular vehicles or climb a few steps to board a motorcoach. Private accessible tours are also available if you cannot transfer. For a fully accessible tour, check out what Sage Travel has to offer.

20. Keukenhof Gardens (March-May)

Keukenhof Gardens is often referred to as the “Garden of Europe” and is the largest flower garden in the world. It spans more than 79 acres and is home to numerous themed gardens, pavilions, and walking paths.

Exploring the vast area allows visitors to discover different floral compositions, from formal flower beds to natural landscapes, all designed to showcase the beauty of spring flowers.

With over seven million flowers in bloom during its opening season from late March to mid-May, the gardens offer a vibrant and colorful spectacle. Visitors can witness an extensive variety of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, orchids, and many other spring flowers meticulously arranged across the park’s landscape.

However, the gardens are most famous for its tulips. Keukenhof offers an opportunity to experience these fields up close and personal, with many nearby fields often bursting with colorful blooms during the same season. For many, Amsterdam is worth visiting for its tulip season alone.

This tour from Amsterdam visits the famous gardens and allows you plenty of time to explore. Additionally, it also visits the town of Delft where you can watch a demonstration of the famous Delft pottery being made. The tour is also wheelchair accessible.

☑️ Tickets sell out quickly, so make sure to book in advance by clicking here.

21. The Hauge

The Hague is the political center of the Netherlands, housing the Dutch Parliament, the government, and the Royal Palace. Visitors can explore the Binnenhof, a historic complex of buildings that has been the center of Dutch politics for centuries. The Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice, is also located in The Hague.

Visitors can also enjoy the Mauritshuis, an art museum that houses masterpieces like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and works by Rembrandt and Rubens. Art lovers will enjoy visiting other museums as well, such as the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, which showcases modern and contemporary art.

This tour will allow you to see the highlights of the city along with the famous works of art mentioned above. It is a wheelchair-accessible tour so people with different levels of mobility can participate as well.

☑️ Reserve your tickets now by booking on Viator by clicking here.

22. Amsterdam Walking Tour

Plan to go on a walking tour in Amsterdam for an immersive and intimate experience of this enchanting city. Amsterdam’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure make it ideal for exploring on foot.

By joining a walking tour, visitors can navigate the charming streets, picturesque canals, and historic neighborhoods while gaining valuable insights from knowledgeable guides.

These tours offer a personal touch, allowing participants to discover hidden gems, hear captivating stories, and delve into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Walking tours provide the freedom to pause, linger, and explore at your own pace, capturing beautiful photos and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city.

This walking tour will provide you with an overview of the city so you can pinpoint places you want to come back to and explore in more detail. If you’re a first-time visitor to Amsterdam, it will help you get an overall layout so you can orient yourself.

☑️ See all the walking tours available in Amsterdam and get your tickets in advance by clicking here.

23. Tour the World’s Oldest Diamond Factory

Established in 1586, the factory has a long and storied past, reflecting the rich diamond heritage of Amsterdam. By visiting this iconic establishment, you can connect with centuries of diamond craftsmanship and gain insights into the city’s diamond trade history.

A visit to the diamond factory is highly educational. Knowledgeable guides can explain the entire diamond production process, from sourcing rough diamonds to the various stages of cutting, shaping, and polishing. They can also share insights into the characteristics, grading, and evaluation of diamonds, giving you a better understanding of these precious gems.

You will also observe skilled craftsmen at work, using traditional techniques to transform rough diamonds into exquisite gemstones. This is a must-do tour if you love jewelry and diamonds. Unfortunately, the tour is not wheelchair-accessible.

24. History of Amsterdam

History lovers will find plenty of walking tours to choose from in order to learn more about the history of Amsterdam. Essentially, however, the tours can be broken down into two categories, focusing either on the general history of the city or Jewish history in Amsterdam. Both will offer excellent insights.

One of the more unique Jewish history tours is led by someone who tells the story from a more personal lens. They share how their own family was impacted by World War II giving guests a more deeper connection. You can find this tour by clicking here.

If the previously mentioned tour is not available, or you want to focus more on the well-known sights involving Jewish history in Amsterdam, then this tour would be a good option.

25. Bicycle Tour

Explore Amsterdam like a local on a bicycle tour. Pass by the most popular sites and learn about this incredible city during your 3-hour tour. There is a short rest stop scheduled at a local cafe.

Alternatively, you can also take a bike tour in some of the greener areas of the city and its surrounding areas. If you want a different landscape during your guided ride, this tour may be a good option for you as it visits Vondel Park and along the Amstel River.

Finally, for biking enthusiasts looking for a longer ride, a half-day tour like this one is available to take you outside the city to explore smaller villages and more rural areas. You will even see an iconic windmill during your tour.

☑️ Explore all the bike tour options and book tickets on Viator by clicking here.

26. Tour to National Memorial Camp Vught

During World War II the Nazis attempted to eradicate anyone who didn’t fit their perception of the ideal race. As a result, many Jewish people were sent to concentration camps where they were tortured and killed.

Just outside of Amsterdam, lies a former camp (now a memorial to those who suffered) that visitors can visit to remember the tragedy that happened. This wheelchair-accessible tour will escort you to Camp Vught and offer a guided experience so you can understand what took place and the history of the camp.

☑️ This tour is limited to 8 people, so make sure to book your tickets in advance by clicking here.

27. Learn to Make a Dutch Delicacy

Unfortunately, due to the nature of the apartments in Amsterdam, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Amsterdam Accommodations

👉🏻DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Amsterdam Centraal Station

This hotel is located near the train station which makes for easy access from the airport and to the major city attractions. They offer dedicated wheelchair-accessible rooms, free wifi, and are pet friendly. There are also restaurants on site. Guests love the comfortable rooms and cleanliness of the property.

☑️ Check availability and prices when you book your room by clicking here.

👉🏻 Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – City Hall

This hotel is centrally located and a budget-friendly option for its location. It includes a free continental breakfast and free wifi. Wheelchair-accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars are available for those that need them. Guests love the friendly and helpful staff as well as the hotel’s location.

☑️ Check prices and availability when you book your room by clicking here.

👉🏻 Luxury Suites Amsterdam

For travelers looking to splurge on a more luxurious experience (maybe for a honeymoon for example) and who do not need a wheelchair-accessible room, then the Luxury Suites Amsterdam is a fantastic option. Rooms are lavishly decorated with beautiful chandeliers and small balconies overlooking one of Amsterdam’s canals. They also contain kitchenettes and dining tables making it possible to have an intimate meal.

☑️ Choose your room type and check for availability when you book by clicking here.

How Many Days in Amsterdam Is Enough?

The amount of time you need to spend in Amsterdam depends on your travel preferences, interests, and the activities you want to do. However, generally speaking, 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in Amsterdam to see the major attractions and get a feel for the city’s culture and atmosphere.

During this time, you can visit museums, explore neighborhoods, take a canal boat tour, and enjoy the city’s nightlife. If you have more time, you can also take day trips to nearby towns and attractions, such as the windmill village of Zaanse Schans or the seaside town of Haarlem.

For more information on how to spend 4 days in Amsterdam, make sure to check out my other post.

Conclusion: 27 Best Amsterdam Tourist Attractions

I hope that this list of the best Amsterdam tourist attractions and things to do has helped you plan your visit to Amsterdam. There are so many incredible ways to spend your time here, whether this is your first visit or your tenth I know you’ll have a fantastic time exploring all that Amsterdam has to offer.