Amsterdam is a city best explored with a good helping of serendipity, aided by some pre-trip planning. There is so much to do and see, both on and off the beaten path.
Here are the top Amsterdam sights and activities as selected by your fellow travelers
Do and see more in Amsterdam for less with the I amsterdam city card:
Explore Amsterdam with the I amsterdam City Card
This card give you access to all major Amsterdam highlights:
More than 70 museums
City-wide public transport
Free bicycle rental
Free canal cruise
Skip-the-lines
Discounts at restaurants, attractions, concerts
More…
On King’s Day Amsterdam puts on the world’s largest street party. Previously known as Queen’s Day.
While the tradition started way back in 1891, April 27, 2026 will mark the 13th edition of King’s Day in honor of King Willem-Alexander.
It’s actually a nationwide party, but Amsterdam definitely is the place to be.
On Christmas Eve 2025, an elephant was born at ARTIS!
Founded in 1838, ARTIS is the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, and one of the oldest zoos of mainland Europe.
Guidebooks rightly refer to it one of the most pleasant city zoos around. The whole place breathes a 19th-century garden atmosphere with winding paths, majestic trees, fascinating sculptures and monumental historical buildings.
As much as possible the over 500 species of animals live in landscaping that resembles their natural habitat.
The annual Amsterdam Light Festival is a winter event that combines light, art and — of course — water.
The organization promotes boat-, walking-, and bicycle tours along the 20 light art installations.
2025 marks the festival’s 14th edition. But is it worth it? We show you visitor reviews, share our own opinion, and suggest some excellent alternatives that show the real lights of Amsterdam.
Want to buy tickets. See inside.
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam contains the largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh in the world.
Our Van Gogh Museum guide includes details about the collection, along with information about the current temporary exhibition: Van Gogh and the Roulins. Together Again at Last.
NOTE: No ticket sales at the door. You can only visit the museum after buying timed-entry tickets online. We show you how and where.
On top of everything else Amsterdam has to offer, in July there are special exhibitions and some unique experiences. For instance, you can get a rare, panoramic rooftop view of Dam Square and the rest of downtown Amsterdam.
What’s on in Amsterdam in June 2025: Banksy, F1, music, food, towers, gardens, theater, exhibitions, and more
World Press Photo, Panoramic Rooftop view of Amsterdam, Mahler, London Calling, Open Air Theatre, Anselm Kiefer at the van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam Art Week, classical concerts at the Beguinage, and more