Amsterdam is known for its canals, bicycles and the red light district. Obviously, you can’t miss them. So why not discover the Dutch capital that’s off the beaten track?
Book a train ticket
Book a train ticket
After a whirlwind fist day exploring the streets of Amsterdam, you might decide to see the city from a different point of view, far from the tourists and closer to the Amsterdammers. Well fortunately for you, we’ve prepared a selection of the best things to do in Amsterdam!
What to do in Amsterdam:
The little tables
If you want to try traditional speculass, or one of the other specialities available; apple tart, macaroon or cheesecake: head to the Kuyt bakery. From the moment you set foot inside, the smell sets your mouth watering with the aromas of cinnamon, ginger and caramel.
If you want to taste the distinguished dishes of Dutch nouvelle cuisine, get yourself to Greetje! Considered one of the best restaurants in town, your taste-buds will be overwhelmed, with an intimate wood-panelled decor and Delft tiles on the wall.
Go all out bargain-hunting
If you have the chance to visit Amsterdam on King’s Day, 27th April, go to the giant jumble sale! There, you can get a little retail therapy without breaking the bank as the locals empty their attics. Root out vintage dresses for 2 euros, toys for only a few cents or even a vintage crockery, which goes for next to nothing!
For a different time or another style, there’s also the flea market in Waterloo Square. Once, the bohemian hang-out of hippy youth, it hasn’t lost its chilled-out atmosphere. Here you’ll find trinkets, second-hand clothes, and modern and traditional wooden objects. Perhaps, you’ll get the chance to take home some real Dutch clogs.
Relax on the terrace
How about going to the beach, right in the middle of Amsterdam? Yes, this is possible! Head to the NEMO roof, designed by Renzo Piano. This is a place for games, sun-loungers and ice cream. What’s more, there is a superb view of the town! During the day, come with the family... And come the evening, make the most of sunset to the sounds of renowned DJs.
Fill up on culture
Film-fans, queue up at the EYE! Reached in 3 minutes via ferry, this cinema complex located on the banks of the IJ offers screenings, exhibitions and conferences all to do with cinema. We recommend stopping there for a snack, because their cafe-bar is unbeatable! You can quite reasonably have lobster soup or even some superb ravioli.
Amsterdam’s architecture is unique... Here, one can find some of the smallest houses in the World. Head over to Singel 7 and admire the corridor house at only one metre wide. If you wish to travel to another continent in the space of one day, why not visit Fo Guang Shan, a Buddhist temple, for something a bit different.
