With years of experience on Amsterdam’s waterways, Stromma is here to help you make the most of your time in the city. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, this guide brings together ideas for seeing Amsterdam your way – from canal views and museum visits to evenings on the water and day trips beyond the city.
Quick guide to planning your Amsterdam visit
| What you want to do | Recommended next step |
|---|---|
| Get a first overview of the city | Compare sightseeing options |
| See Amsterdam from the water | Explore canal tours |
| Combine culture with the canals | View combination tickets |
| Plan an evening activity | See dining cruises |
| Explore beyond Amsterdam | Discover bus tours |
| Choose the easiest place to board a canal tour | Find departure points |
Explore Amsterdam by neighbourhood
Visit the charming Jordaan neighbourhood
Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighbourhoods, known for its narrow streets, art galleries, boutique shops and cosy cafés. Its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant cultural scene make it a favourite with both locals and visitors.
Perfect for: Shopping and strolling
How to get here: Jordaan is easy to reach: it is about a five-minute walk from Central Station. By tram, take line 11 or 17 and get off at Westermarkt.
Vondelpark – the famous park in the city centre
Amsterdam's most famous park, Vondelpark offers a lush oasis in the heart of the city. With sprawling lawns, picturesque ponds, and vibrant flora, it is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Perfect for: A lazy day in the park
How to get here: Vondelpark is easy to reach from the city centre. Take tram 2 from Central Station, or walk from Leidseplein. Several tram and bus lines also stop nearby.
Nieuwmarkt Square in the middle of the historic centre
Nieuwmarkt Square is a vibrant and lively area with a rich history. It is home to a daily market where you can find local produce, vintage items, and unique souvenirs. The square is also surrounded by historic buildings and is a great place to relax in a cozy café or sample authentic Dutch cuisine in one of the local restaurants.
Perfect for: Relaxing on a terrace and people watching
How to get here: Nieuwmarkt is around a ten-minute walk from Central Station. You can also take metro line 51 or 54.
NDSM district
NDSM is a good choice when you want to see a more creative, industrial side of Amsterdam. Located in Amsterdam North, it is a place where industry and creativity meet. Explore street art, enjoy waterfront views and stop at one of the area’s cafés or urban beaches, such as Pllek and Noorderlicht. In summer, NDSM also hosts festivals and live music events.
Perfect for: Street art, creative spaces, waterfront cafés and an alternative side of Amsterdam.
How to get here: Take the free GVB ferry from behind Central Station to NDSM Wharf – not Buiksloterweg. The crossing takes around 15 minutes; check the current timetable before you travel.
Plan around Amsterdam’s best-known sights
Amsterdam’s best-known sights are spread across several walkable areas. Plan one or two highlights per day, then leave time to explore the streets, canals and neighbourhoods around them.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most meaningful and popular visits. Book well in advance, then allow time to explore the surrounding streets of Jordaan, Westerkerk and the western canal belt on foot.
Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is a natural centrepiece for a culture-focused day around Museumplein. Combine your visit with other museums nearby, a walk through Vondelpark or time on the canals later in the day. There is a canal cruise departure location right across from the Rijksmuseum.
Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX, Amsterdam.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is ideal for an art-focused day at Museumplein. Give yourself time to visit a relaxed pace, then explore the surrounding museum district or nearby Vondelpark.
Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ, Amsterdam.
Looking for more cultural highlights? Explore our guide to museums in Amsterdam.
Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience is an interactive visit for anyone curious about one of the Netherlands’ most recognisable brands. It is located close to the De Pijp neighbourhood, where you can continue your day with cafés, restaurants or a visit to Albert Cuyp Market.
Address: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE, Amsterdam.
Dam Square and the Royal Palace
Dam Square is a central stop when you are exploring Amsterdam’s historic centre. See the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk, then continue on foot towards the Nine Streets, Nieuwmarkt or Central Station.
Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ, Amsterdam.
Discover more ideas in our guide to attractions in Amsterdam.
Planning a museum visit? Combine selected attractions with a canal cruise and see more of Amsterdam in one day. Explore our combination tickets.
More places to explore in Amsterdam
For a different side of Amsterdam, look beyond the best-known museums and central squares. These places add art, history and unexpected views to a longer stay in the city.
- Moco museum
Explore contemporary and modern art, including work by artists such as Banksy and Dalí. - Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
Discover a 17th-century canal house with a hidden Catholic church in its attic. - Museum van Loon
Step inside an elegant 17th-century canal house and learn about the family who lived there. - NEMO Science Museum rooftop
Visit the NEMO Science Museum rooftop terrace for open city views and a different perspective on Amsterdam.
How many days do you have in Amsterdam?
Whether you have one day or a long weekend, a little planning makes it easier to see the parts of Amsterdam that interest you most. Use our itinerary guides to build a day around canals, museums, neighbourhoods and time to slow down.
- One day in Amsterdam: a practical itinerary
Make the most of a short visit with a balanced plan for Amsterdam’s highlights. - Two days in Amsterdam: a weekend itinerary
See the essential sights on day one, then leave room for neighbourhoods, museums and a more relaxed pace. - Three days in Amsterdam: an itinerary for a longer stay
Add more of Amsterdam’s local character and give yourself time to explore beyond the main highlights.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first on my first visit to Amsterdam?
Start in the historic centre and canal belt, then choose one or two areas to explore at a slower pace. Seeing Amsterdam from the water can be an easy way to get an overview before continuing on foot.
How many days do I need in Amsterdam?
One full day is enough for a first introduction to Amsterdam. With two or three days, you have more time for museums, neighbourhoods and, if you like, a day trip beyond the city.
Which Amsterdam neighbourhoods are best to explore on foot?
Jordaan, the Nine Streets, Nieuwmarkt and the western canal belt are all easy to explore on foot. They offer a mix of cafés, shops, historic streets and canal views.
Where do Stromma experiences depart from in Amsterdam?
Stromma has departure points in central areas including Central Station, Damrak, Rijksmuseum, Leidseplein, Keizersgracht and Anne Frank House. Check the departure points page before booking to confirm the location for your chosen experience.
What can I do outside Amsterdam?
If you have extra time, consider a trip to destinations such as Zaanse Schans, Volendam or seasonal locations including Keukenhof. Our bus tours from Amsterdam can be a practical way to explore beyond the city.
Are German-language guided tours available in Amsterdam?
Visitors looking for German-language guided city tours can find more information through Amsterdam Liebe.
