5 things you absolutely must do in Amsterdam

There are many exciting things to experience in Amsterdam. But what are the must-sees in the canal metropolis, especially if you’re short on time? We, the girls and boys from Incredible Amsterdam, know exactly what you shouldn’t miss and have put together the five best highlights of the city that you must do in Amsterdam. So you can get the most out of Amsterdam even with little time.

A relaxed canal cruise

A canal cruise through Amsterdam’s canals is simply a must! Nothing is more beautiful than sailing through Amsterdam’s magnificent canals and admiring the city from the water. It is not for nothing that this wonderful city is known as the “Venice of the North”. In 2010, Amsterdam’s 17th century canal belt was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. And rightly so, as the city of Amsterdam is doing everything it can to preserve and protect the canals. Experience the winding 300-kilometre network of canals, see the most beautiful canal houses throughout Amsterdam and be enchanted by the charm of the houseboats in this wonderful city.

A visit to the notorious red light district

There is no way around the world’s first red light district. It is not for nothing that this notorious neighbourhood is a popular tourist attraction. Amsterdam is not only tolerant when it comes to smoking cannabis, but prostitution was also legalised here at the turn of the millennium. In the 80s and 90s, hard drugs such as heroin and cocaine were still dealt on the streets here. Today, the red light district is probably one of the safest areas in the entire city. But if you still don’t want to venture into the Red Light District on your own, then it’s best to join our informative Red Light District Tour, because you simply have to visit the Red Light District in Amsterdam. On the tour, you will not only see the scantily clad women in the shop windows, but also gain insider knowledge about the work of the prostitutes and take a look behind the scenes of this world flooded with red neon lights.

Shopping in the 9 Straatjes

Endless shopping is possible in the Negen Straatjes. Amsterdam’s nine cosiest little streets are just a stone’s throw from Dam Square. In the side streets of Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht and Single you will find everything your heart desires. Great designer pieces, vintage fashion, antiques, wonderful restaurants, playful cafés and much more… These little streets are also perfect for male companions, who can sit comfortably on the benches in front of the shops and watch the hustle and bustle while their wives shop. These pretty 9 streets are definitely not to be missed.

Pure culture – a tour of the Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam and art simply belong together. A visit to a museum in the city is a must for broadening your cultural horizons. And even if you’re only in Amsterdam for a short time, the Rijksmuseum is a must-see. Immerse yourself in a journey through Dutch history, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, presented on over four floors and in 80 rooms. Witness magnificent masterpieces and enjoy the largest collection of Dutch works in the world. And if you would like a detailed explanation of the most important works, our Rijksmuseum tour is definitely worthwhile!

Hire a bike and get cycling

What could be better than exploring Amsterdam on a bike with the wind blowing through your hair? But cycling is not just reserved for the locals. You can also explore the streets of Amsterdam on your bike. Get from A to B quickly and ride into the outer neighbourhoods of the city, where tourists rarely stray. Westerpark, Haarlemmerdijk or the Jordaan can be discovered effortlessly. And if you want to see a pretty windmill, head to the t’ IJ brewery and enjoy a cosy organic beer. If you’re not quite up for the cycling jungle or you want to see as much as possible in a short space of time, then we recommend a guided cycle tour through Amsterdam.

We wish you lots of fun and many great moments in our beloved canal city and hope that you have an eventful time thanks to our 5 tips on what you absolutely have to do in Amsterdam. And if you discover a great place during your stay in Amsterdam that we should also get to know, then let us know about it! Just send us a message on Facebook or an e-mail. We look forward to your insider tips!

Best wishes from the most beautiful city in the world,

Love, your Incredible Amsterdam team ❤️