15 of the Top Things To Do in Amsterdam Per Viator Travelers

What?: Think of Amsterdam and you’ll probably envision the Amsterdam Canal Ring (Grachtengordel), a UNESCO–listed tangle of 17th-century canals lined with historic architecture. The best way to see it is during a canal cruise with drinks and cheese that lets you escape the crowds on land.

When?: From November through February, the city hosts the Amsterdam Light Festival, when light installations decorate the banks of the canals—you can enjoy the best views of it on an evening cruise.

What one reviewer said: “Excellent tour! Best hosts ever, so hospitable and fun, [and] they gave a great wealth of information. Highly recommend!” Gina, March 2025

What?: Topping the list of things to do in Amsterdam for culture lovers is the Van Gogh Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of paintings by the iconic Dutch painter. A skip-the-line tour with a private guide helps you beat the crowds and head straight to the highlights, which include masterpieces such as the world-famous Sunflowers.

When?: The museum is quietest on Tuesday and Wednesday, so visit then to feel like you’ve got the gallery (mostly) to yourself.

What one reviewer said: “Fantastic tour. Our tour guide, Ewald, was spectacular. Only my wife and I signed up, so they could have easily canceled, but Ewald did not. He came in from the Haarlem area where he lived and gave us a great 2.5-hour personal tour. He provided so much insight into all the Van Gogh paintings, it was so informative.” Brian, March 2025

What?: Cuisine in the Netherlands might not be as recognizable as other European countries, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying. Take a food tour for an introduction to classic Dutch delicacies such as French fries, apple pie, and bitterballen (crispy croquettes that are a staple of the Amsterdam food scene).

When?: You’ll eat enough snacks to make up a full meal, so time your food tour for lunch or dinner.

What one reviewer said: “Roman is a wonderful guide and made the experience extra special! The tastings were delicious. I also learned so much about Amsterdam’s history and culture. I would book this tour again and again!” Debbie, March 2025

What?: With more than 320 miles (515 kilometers) of bike lanes, Amsterdam is a city made for cycling; it makes sense that exploring the capital on a bike tour is one of the best Amsterdam activities. Plus, following a guide helps you navigate between top Amsterdam landmarks such as Vondelpark and Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug).

When?: Amsterdam is prone to regular rain showers, so book your bike tour for spring or summer (April to August) for the best chance of dry weather.

What one reviewer said: “The bike tour was a lot of fun. Our tour guide, James, took us to all the main spots and some lesser-known little corners of the historic part of town. James was very patient with us and helped us feel safe in the otherwise crazy Amsterdam traffic. This is a great way to see the city.” Gil, March 2025

What?: Even though it’s only a 1.5-hour drive from Amsterdam, Giethoorn feels a world away from the bustling capital. In this car-free village, farmhouses and flower beds flank the banks of tranquil canals criss-crossed by historic bridges. A day trip is the perfect addition to your Amsterdam itinerary.

When?: The secret’s out about Giethoorn, so visit during the quieter winter months of November through January for a crowd-free experience.

What one reviewer said: “Beautiful village to visit. The guide was knowledgeable and humorous. Great food, boutique shops, and very accommodating to solo travelers!” Catherine, December 2024

What?: No sweet treat is more of a staple of Dutch cuisine than stroopwafels, and Amsterdam is a fabulous place to try making your own during a cooking class. Choose syrups and toppings to slather your creations with and leave with recommendations for where to find the city’s best waffles.

When?: This indoor activity is perfect for a rainy day, of which Amsterdam sees plenty.

What one reviewer said: “This was a great way to spend some time while enjoying the day, and you get to leave with delicious, freshly made stroopwafels. Talia and Alessandro were kind and clear instructors, teaching us a bit about the history of the treats.” Sara, February 2025

What?: Perched on the banks of the canal, formerly working-class Jordaan is now a super-chic district famed for its restaurant and café scene. Explore the neighborhood like a local on a walking tour that helps you veer away from the tourist trail—and includes sampling ample snacks.

When?: Jordaan comes into its own during summer when the sunlight glimmers on the water and its restaurants provide outdoor seating for alfresco dining.

What one reviewer said: “Wow! What a great day in Amsterdam. We had a small group and moved from place to place with ease. There was great food, and plenty of time to learn some history about the area. Would fully recommend this to anyone wanting to get to know the city a bit better.” Tana, March 2025

What?: Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Hals, and Vermeer, Rijksmuseum is one of the top attractions in Amsterdam. If you’re short on time, a tour with skip-the-line access helps you zoom in on major works without getting lost among the 8,000 pieces on display.

When?: Rijksmuseum is open daily from morning to late afternoon and is always busiest on weekends.

What one reviewer said: “Clare was excellent. She gave us a wonderful tour in historical context and pointed out things we would never know or see on our own.” Ella, February 2025

What?: With a walking tour at the start of your Amsterdam sightseeing itinerary, you can get an overview of the city that’ll help you to figure out which attractions interest you most. You’ll discover hip and happening areas such as Chinatown and wander along the banks of the Amstel River, among other spots.

When?: Schedule your walking tour for the morning so you can spend the rest of the day visiting the highlights and hidden gems your guide recommends.

What one reviewer said: “We arrived in Amsterdam with zero context and this tour was the perfect way to get our bearings early [in] our trip. We saw and learned so much!“ Michaela_R, March 2025

What?: A spot that'll always top must-see places in Amsterdam lists is the Anne Frank House, which serves as a somber reminder of the Holocaust’s devastating effect on the city. After visiting the diarist’s former home, you can delve deeper into Amsterdam’s Jewish heritage on a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter.

When?: The Anne Frank House is open daily from morning to late night. Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance.

What one reviewer said: “Thought-provoking and very poignant. Our guide was very knowledgeable and respectful of the information he was imparting.” Susan_P, February 2025

What?: Nowhere encapsulates Amsterdam’s liberal culture better than the Amsterdam Red Light District (De Wallen), where sex work and smoking marijuana are both legal. Exploring the area with a guide helps you separate fact from fiction, learn about the history of the area, and navigate its streets and sights.

When?: While still fascinating during the day, the Red Light District really comes to life after dark when the area's neon signs and packed bars create a vibrant ambiance.

What one reviewer said: “Our guide Aarre was awesome! The tour gave a great mix of history and relevant information. I would definitely recommend it.” Stefanie_H, February 2025

What?: Every year in spring, Keukenhof Gardens bloom with more than 7 million flowers, creating one of Europe's most stunning seasonal spectacles. Tulips in every color decorate more than 79 acres (32 hectares) of the garden, making this convenient ticket-and-transfer package a must.

When?: Keukenhof opens for its short annual window from roughly the end of March to the start of May.

What one reviewer said: “We had perfect weather and were happy with the time of our visit—the garden is beautiful. The driver was very friendly and clearly enjoys her work.” Maria Angela, June 2024

What?: While you'll struggle to find a bar in Amsterdam that doesn't serve Heineken beer, a self-guided tour of the Heineken Experience lets you take a deep dive into the cultural role that beer plays (and includes two refreshing pints). Plus, the former brewery is home to a rooftop with 360-degree views of the capital's canals.

When?: The Heineken Experience is open from mid-morning to late afternoon from Sunday to Monday, and closes later on Friday and Saturday.

What one reviewer said: “Awesome history of brand and growth throughout the years. The experience was very captivating and fun. A must-do while in Amsterdam.” Ezekiel, February 2025

What?: Head to Zaanse Schans in the Dutch countryside to discover the Netherlands of a bygone era when cheese- and clog-making were the main industries. Taking a day trip to the windmill-filled fields of Zannse Schans, the cheese hot spot of Edam, and the fishing village of Volendam is an absolute must when you’re in the Netherlands.

When?: Time your visit to the countryside for spring to see tulips and wildflowers bloom in the meadows you’ll see along the way.

What one reviewer said: “Amazing! 10/10 recommend to anyone visiting or new to Amsterdam. Laura was such an amazing guide! I learned so much and had an incredible time!” Kanise, March 2025

What?: Even if you feel like your dancing days are behind you, Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is sure to get you in the mood for a party—there’s a good reason it attracts so many bachelors and bachelorettes. Skip the tourist traps and hit up local favorites on a bar crawl that reveals the city’s raucous side.

When?: If you’re looking for the ultimate night of revelry, visit Amsterdam on King’s Day on April 27. Everyone wears orange and the city erupts with canal cruises, parades, street fairs, and performances.

What one reviewer said: “I recently participated in a Bar Night Crawl Tour, and it was an amazing experience. The tour was well-organized and took us to some of the best bars in town. Each venue had its unique vibe, and we got to enjoy a variety of drinks and atmospheres.” Ikram, February 2025