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Amsterdam has a reputation. Tulips, canals, “coffeeshops,” and neon-lit windows tend to dominate the conversation. But for the experience-seeking traveller - the kind who wants context with their canal cruise or a story behind every gable - the Dutch capital has layers.
Whether you’re here for 24 hours or a full week of wandering, here are 10 things to do in Amsterdam that mix icons with intrigue.
1. Step into Royal History at Dam Square
It might look like just another touristy plaza, but Dam Square is the gravitational centre of the city - where Amsterdam began, and where its biggest moments still unfold.
You’ll find the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk, and the National Monument all sharing this open space, surrounded by street performers and political protests alike. This is where Dutch monarchs are inaugurated and where the city has mourned, celebrated, and demonstrated for centuries.
Did you know? During World War II, German troops opened fire on a crowd gathered in Dam Square to celebrate liberation. The tragedy is remembered every year on May 4th.
2. Get Lost in the Red Light District
Everyone’s heard of Amsterdam’s Red Light District, but most people experience it all wrong - stumbling through in a haze of shock, giggles, or awkward glances.
But behind the glowing windows is one of the city’s oldest and most architecturally rich neighbourhoods. You’ll find the Oude Kerk (Amsterdam’s oldest building), medieval canals, and a deep story of tolerance, trade, and taboo.
Did you know? There’s a bronze statue in the Red Light District dedicated to sex workers - one of the only such monuments in the world.
3. Find Peace in the Hidden Begijnhof
One minute you’re on the chaotic shopping street of Kalverstraat; the next, you’re standing in a medieval courtyard so silent you’ll hear your own thoughts.
The Begijnhof was once home to the Beguines - independent religious women who lived in a community without taking vows. Today, it’s a private residential complex with a secret garden, a 15th-century wooden house, and two ancient chapels.
Did you know? The last Beguine passed away in 1971. She left behind a legacy of spiritual independence that still echoes through the courtyard.
4. Float Past the Past on the Canals
There’s a reason Amsterdam is called “The Venice of the North” - except the canals here were meticulously engineered, not romantic accidents. The Grachtengordel (Canal Belt) was laid out in the 17th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Yes, the boat tours are lovely. But the real joy is walking along the canals at your own pace, admiring crooked canal houses, hidden gardens, and reflections of history in the water.
Did you know? Amsterdam has more canals than Venice - and more bridges than Paris.
5. Shop (or Window-Shop) on Kalverstraat
Sure, Kalverstraat is packed with chain stores. But what most visitors miss is its backstory. It started as a medieval cattle market - "kalver" means "calves" - and evolved into the city’s busiest shopping street.
Amid the hustle, you’ll find centuries-old façades, secret courtyards, and great people-watching. Take breaks often and look up - the architecture above the stores is anything but modern.
Did you know? The street is built on top of what used to be the city’s oldest canal, now filled in but still influencing the layout.
6. Visit the Anne Frank House (But Book Ahead)
This one needs no introduction. The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most moving experiences. Her story is told within the actual building where her family hid, and the museum handles it with care and clarity.
But a word of advice: tickets must be booked online in advance, often weeks ahead, especially in peak season.
Did you know? The bookshelf that concealed the Secret Annex is still in place - and it’s just as haunting in person as you might imagine.
7. Browse Blooms at the Floating Flower Market
The Bloemenmarkt floats on barges along the Singel canal and has sold flowers and bulbs since 1862. It’s a bit touristy these days, but if you want tulip bulbs for your suitcase or a quick photo-op, this is the place.
Go early to avoid crowds - and remember, not all bulbs sold are certified for export.
Did you know? In the 17th century, tulip bulbs were so valuable they were traded like stocks - some even sold for more than houses.
Walk past Bloemenmarkt with context: Included in the StoryHunt audio tour
8. Visit Oude Kerk in the sacred Red Light District
Right in the heart of Amsterdam’s most infamous neighborhood stands its oldest building: the Oude Kerk. Founded in 1306, this former Catholic church turned Protestant monument is a striking mix of serenity and contradiction. Inside, sunlight filters through stained glass onto ancient tombstones, including that of Rembrandt’s wife, Saskia. The soaring wooden ceiling and quiet chapels offer a meditative contrast to the buzz just outside. Today, the church also hosts cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions, making it a space where centuries of history meet bold new ideas.
Did you know? The Oude Kerk is built on thousands of wooden piles driven deep into the marshy ground — a technique still used in Amsterdam construction today.
9. Explore the Quirky Side Streets off Spui
Just behind Spui Square lies a network of quiet alleys filled with independent bookstores, local designers, and old literary cafés. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds without leaving the center.
Check out the Friday book market, Athenaeum bookstore, and grab a coffee at Café Luxembourg, one of the city’s classic “brown cafés.”
Did you know? This area was once home to Amsterdam’s first printing presses - and a hotbed of Enlightenment ideas.
10. Eat Your Way Through Dutch Snacks (Beyond Stroopwafels)
Sure, stroopwafels are iconic, but Amsterdam’s snack scene has much more to offer - salty, crispy, deep-fried glory, to be exact. Start with a cone of patat (Dutch fries) from Vleminckx Sausmeesters, where you’ll choose from a sauce menu longer than your arm. Then try a kroket or bitterballen - crispy meat-filled snacks that go perfectly with a cold beer at a brown café.
Want something sweet? Head to Van Stapele Koekmakerij for their cult-status chocolate cookies or grab a fresh poffertjes (mini pancakes) from a street vendor. It’s all casual, local, and entirely satisfying.
Did you know? Dutch snack bars used to serve fried snacks from vending machines - and many still do! Try one at a FEBO automat for the full local experience.
Whether it’s your first time in Amsterdam or your fifth, this city rewards the curious. So lace up your walking shoes, download the StoryHunt app, and go find the stories hiding behind the façades.
