Amsterdam Tours

Get upto 60% discount on selected tours

From stroopwaffels and canal cruises to the Rijksmuseum and bike tours, there are so many wonderful things to do on your first visit to Amsterdam. Spend your days exploring picturesque neighborhoods like the Jordaan and sampling local Dutch favorites such as bitterballen and poffertjes. This first-timer’s guide to Amsterdam covers the city’s most unmissable landmarks and experiences, so you won’t miss any of its most iconic sights during your time in the Dutch capital.

Amsterdam: Tips for first-time visitors

Avoid walking in the red-colored cycle lanes, as local cyclists are unforgiving of tourists blocking their way.
Trams stop running just after midnight, but taxis are available, and night buses run from 12:30 AM to 6:00 AM.
Amsterdam’s top attractions, including the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum, regularly sell out, so book beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Don’t confuse “coffee shops” with regular cafes. Coffee shops sell legal cannabis, whereas cafes are where you will get your caffeine fix.

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

Each season has its unique charm, from spring’s blooming tulips to winter’s festive Christmas markets. Whether you’re looking to avoid the crowds or soak up the sun, discover the best time to visit Amsterdam below.

Spring in Amsterdam
Spring in Amsterdam runs from March to June, bringing mild temperatures and the chance to visit vibrant tulip fields at the famous Keukenhof Gardens. The city becomes busier towards the end of spring, particularly during the annual King’s Day festivities, which feature city-wide celebrations.

Summer in Amsterdam
During summer in Amsterdam, the city is a hub of activity, with bustling streets, thriving nightlife, and lively festivals. The warm summer days are perfect for canal cruises, but be prepared for large crowds at the city’s top attractions.

Fall in Amsterdam
Visit Amsterdam in the fall, from September to November, to discover the city’s canals and parks lined with the fall foliage’s gorgeous mix of orange, red, and yellow hues. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds than summer, it’s a wonderful time for sightseeing at a relaxed pace.

Winter in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s winter months, from December to February, bring fewer crowds and are generally best spent escaping the cold at the city’s many indoor attractions. Visit in the run-up to Christmas to soak up the festive atmosphere at the city’s holiday markets and the famous ice skating rink at Rembrandtplein.

Amsterdam’s top 4 must-visit attractions

1. Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Netherlands’ largest museum, boasting masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age and beyond. Here you can see spectacular works by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals — Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” is a must-see.

2. Anne Frank House
Contemplate the impact of World War II at the Anne Frank House, where you gain an intimate glimpse into the life of Anne Frank and her family during the Holocaust by visiting the very rooms where she lived and wrote her famous diary.

3. Amsterdam’s Canals
Explore the canals of Amsterdam with a stroll through the city center, or better yet, opt for a picturesque cruise through these iconic waterways. Amsterdam’s canals are a UNESCO World Heritage site, comprising of over 100 km of waterways, 90 islands, and 1,500 bridges.

4. Van Gogh Museum
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to see the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works, from personal letters to his early masterpieces. It’s one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam, and also one of the most popular, so make sure you book your tickets in advance.