In this article, I present 4 must-do activities for a first visit to the city of Amsterdam.
Are you venturing to the capital of the Netherlands for the first time? The choice of activities can seem bewildering! Discover our selection of 3 must-do activities for a memorable first visit to the city.
Discover the cultural treasures, charming canal-side neighborhoods and wealth of this unique city.
Follow the guide!
4 must-do activities for a first visit to Amsterdam: article summary
The Museum Plain: a must for every visitor
One of the capital's liveliest spots, the Museum Plain brings together all of Amsterdam's most beautiful monuments. Among them are
- Visit Stedelijk Museum
- Visit Van Gogh Museum
- Visit RijksMuseum
- Visit Moco Museum
- Visit Diamant Museum
At any time of year, this plain is always bustling with activity! This is where local artists gather, where festivals are held and where the big Christmas market takes place as winter approaches.
You'll love the atmosphere here, relaxing on one of the many benches with a hot chocolate or a refreshing drink from one of the stalls open all year round, depending on the season.
How to get there
From the tourist center and the main train station, it's a 35-minute walk to the plain lined with all the city's finest museums. There are several options for getting to this magnificent place:
- Take the streetcar (lines 2, 5 and 12), getting off at the Rijksmuseum, Hobbemastraat or Concertgebouw
- By car, several paid parking lots are available
Vondel Park: the inevitable green lung
Vondelpark, a green oasis in the heart of Amsterdam, offers visitors and locals alike an enchanted escape.
This emblematic park, established in 1865, is much more than just a green space, it's a veritable urban sanctuary.
Whether you stroll along the winding paths, hire a bike for a scenic ride, or relax by the peaceful ponds, Vondelpark invites you to immerse yourself in soothing tranquility.
Customers opting for a guided tour with us. This park is definitely suitable for young and old!
How to get there
- 30-minute walk from the main station
- By streetcar (lines 1, 2 and 5), get off at the Vondelpark or Leidseplein
- By car, several paid parking lots are available
Dam Square and its history: a must-see in Amsterdam
If you've arrived in Amsterdam by train, plane or boat, this historic square is probably where you'll begin or end your Dutch journey.
It's known as Amsterdam's "heartbeat". It's where history, culture and the daily lives of the people of Amsterdam converge on a daily basis.
Dam Square is a large, historic esplanade surrounded by architectural gems such as the Royal Palace and the New Church, creating a majestic backdrop. To stroll around Dam Square is to immerse yourself in the history of the city of Amsterdam.
During the day and evening, street artists add a touch of creativity to this already lively space, while long-time pigeon companions complete the picturesque tableau.
How to get there
- 10min walk from the main station
- Take the streetcar (lines 4, 14 and 24), getting off at the Dam
- Visit metro M52, get off at Rokin stop then 5min walk
- By car, several paid parking lots are available
The Negen Straatjes: the city's picturesque charm
The Negen Straatjes, or "Nine Lanes", form an enchanting network of picturesque streets in the heart of Amsterdam. Nestled between iconic canals, these winding lanes are a paradise for shoppers and urban explorers alike.
Here too, there's something for everyone. Here's a non-exhaustive list of stores we recommend you pay particular attention to:
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Het Koekemannetje: for its attractive facade and delicious cookies
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Beadies: for a unique souvenir of the city
- De Kaaskamer: for its impressive display of Dutch cheese varieties
The historic facades of the Negen Straatjes are home to an array of independent boutiques, art galleries and trendy cafés.
Whether you're looking for stylish clothes, unique objects or simply a picturesque getaway, it's the perfect place to stroll and discover Amsterdam's creative soul off the beaten track.
How to get there
- From the main station, it's a 20-minute walk.
- By streetcar (lines 2 and 12), get off at the Paleisstraat
- Visit metro M52, get off at Rokin stop then 10min walk
- By car, several paid parking lots are available
What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Amsterdam guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Amsterdam guide!
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