Best things to do in Amsterdam

The square is very close to many tourist attractions, including the Museumplein, which houses a variety of famous museums, the city theater, Holland Casino, Vondelpark, canal cruise departure points, shopping areas, and brand-name streets.

Leidseplein was established in the 17th century, specifically in 1660, during the time when the canal network surrounding the city was built. Its name comes from the Leidsepoort gate that stood there until 1862, which served as the exit point towards the city of Leiden. The square was originally created to provide parking for the horse-drawn carriages of farmers and other visitors before they entered the city center.

Many tourists who are not very familiar with Amsterdam tend to stay around Dam Square, but those who know the city well often prefer Leidseplein for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to numerous attractions.

The Old Church in Amsterdam is recognized as the oldest building and church in the city. It is situated in the Red Light District and dates back to around 1213. This church played a significant role for sailors and fishermen who lived in the area. While it still functions as a church, it officially became a museum in 2016, allowing contemporary artists to showcase their work. For 800 years, the church has been an integral part of Amsterdam’s community, housing approximately 2,500 graves, with an additional 10,000 buried beneath. Rembrandt van Rijn’s wife is interred here. The name “Old Church” has been used since the 15th century, when the larger “New Church” was built in Dam Square.

If you’re on the lookout for a panoramic view of Amsterdam, this is definitely the spot you want to visit. The tower, located just across the IJ River from the central station, has become one of the city’s most sought-after attractions in recent years. It’s not just the stunning cityscape that draws visitors; the building features three swings perched 100 meters above the ground. Who wouldn’t want to swing over the city and capture such a unique photo for their vacation album? (Note that the minimum height requirement to use the swings is 1.30 meters).
While it may not be for the faint-hearted, even those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop, along with the special fast elevator and the bar that the venue offers. The name of the place is an abbreviation of Amsterdam, dance, and music, and it also houses a music school and a large event company. It’s best to visit when the weather is clear for optimal visibility.
You can also combine your visit with the attraction “This is Holland,” which you can find more information about on this page. Getting there is easy with a free five-minute ferry ride that departs from the back of the central station.

In the Chinatown area of Amsterdam, right next to the famous Red-Light District, you can discover the largest Buddhist Chinese temple in Europe. This temple is designed in the style of a traditional Chinese palace, featuring a variety of symbolic elements. The entrance gate represents the gateway to mountain monasteries, while the stairs guide you step by step according to Buddhist principles, leading you to the highest point you can reach. The dragons adorning the roof serve as protectors against evil spirits. Visitors are welcome to enter the temple freely, and guided tours are also available for those interested. If you find yourself in the area and have a taste for Asian cuisine, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy nearby.

From the Anatomical Theater to a Restaurant, the renowned painter Rembrandt van Rijn immortalized one of these public dissections in his famous painting ‘The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp.’ In the 19th century, the Waag took on various additional roles, serving as a city screen hall, a furniture workshop, an oil lighting workshop, a fire station, and a city archive. By the 20th century, the building housed two museums: the Amsterdam Museum from 1926 to 1932 and the Jewish Historical Museum until 1987. Today, on the ground floor, you can enjoy a delightful dinner at the café-restaurant In de Waag, set in an attractive room illuminated by three hundred candles.

To enter, you must be at least 18 years old and present a valid passport. The dress code is casual, allowing for jeans, a shirt, and closed-toe shoes. There is an entrance fee, but if you hold an Iamsterdam card or an Amsterdam nightlife pass, you can enjoy free entry.