Things to do in Amsterdam: our themed recommendations
Amsterdam captivates visitors with its contrasts: classic and avant-garde, peaceful and wild, cultural and unusual... Whether you're an art lover, architecture enthusiast, night owl, or curious traveler looking for unique experiences, the Dutch capital has something for everyone!
In this article, we'll explore the rich, lively, and surprising city of Amsterdam through four main themes... to discover the city in a new light.
Culture: timeless masterpieces and contemporary creations
In Amsterdam, culture is in the air at every turn. The Rijksmuseum is undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions: it houses the great paintings of the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt's famous Night Watch.
Rijksmuseum
A few steps away, the Moco Museum offers a completely different side of art, showcasing contemporary artists such as Banksy, Kusama, and Warhol in a more intimate atmosphere.
For an even more unique experience, don't hesitate to visit the Eye Filmmuseum. This futuristic building dedicated to cinema offers a wealth of content, including interactive exhibitions and original screenings.
Heritage and architecture: recognized charm and hidden legacy
It's no exaggeration to say that Amsterdam is an open-air museum! Strolling along the UNESCO-listed canals, you'll find yourself immersed in a totally unique setting, with narrow gabled houses, romantic bridges, and cobbled streets.
Canals and leaning houses
Behind these postcard images lie more discreet treasures such as the Begijnhof, a peaceful former beguinage in the heart of the city. Comprising several buildings, most of which are now private residences, the site is also home to the English Reformed Church.
Other gems to admire as you stroll around include the famous leaning houses... Many houses lean due to unstable ground, but some were designed this way so that goods could be hoisted up from the street without damaging them!
Nightlife and festive atmosphere: between coffee shops and electro
At nightfall, Amsterdam reveals a whole new side. The Red Light District, with its famous illuminated windows, is as intriguing as it is fascinating. Read this Canals and leaning houses of Amsterdam from Bonjour Amsterdam to prepare for your visit.
Amsterdam by night
The city's iconic coffee shops attract curious visitors from all over the world... If that's not your thing, you can still pop in for a coffee and check out the place!
And if you want to dance until dawn, the SugarFactory offers a dynamic electronic music scene in an industrial setting. Here, the night is completely free and always full of surprises.
Unusual favorites: another look at Amsterdam
If you like to get off the beaten track, Amsterdam is full of unexpected curiosities.
If you pass by, you'll see that Singel 7, with its facade barely a meter wide, intrigues passersby... Even though it's actually the back of a house located on Jeroenensteeg.
Further on, there's another unusual museum, Micropia! A must-see for fans of the microscopic world, this place invites you to discover the fascinating world of microbes.
The fascinating world of Micropia
Finally, let's finish with the Electric Ladyland museum, which is entirely dedicated to... fluorescent light! As you might expect, this place offers a unique sensory experience.
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