As someone who has been living in Amsterdam for close to 20 years now, it is a question I get asked many times over ~

“What do you recommend we do when coming to Amsterdam for a short break? And not things off the tourist highlight list...”

Post has been updated in November 2021

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Places mapped by Wanderlog, a journey planner app

FUN Things To See And Do In Beautiful Amsterdam!

Visit the ADAM Toren and swing on the highest swing in Europe located 23 floors up! Glorious panoramic views of the city await you.
Have breakfast where calories don’t count and the food is to die for! The menu includes healthy options too by the way...Go nuts with the freak shakes at the CORNER BAKERY
More Breakfast And Brunch Addresses In Amsterdam
Have high tea at the chic Waldorf Astoria Hotel.
Explore Amsterdam on a bike. It is the easiest way to move around and take in the views of the city. Please, be careful! The locals ride bikes faster than you’ve ever seen anyone ride.
Have a picnic ~ wine combined with a beautiful selection of local cheeses in Vondel Park, by the sculpture by Picasso located in the middle of the park.
Watch out for a music festival in Amsterdam or a concert taking place during your stay, and we have many of those! Keep tabs on The Paradiso, Melkweg, and the Ziggo Dome
Visit Moco museum showing expos of Banksy, Warhol, and Dali to name a few. There are many beautiful museums in Amsterdam, most will take at least half a day so if you’re in town for only a short while, Moco is a great substitute for the traditional ones.

Where Should You Stay In Amsterdam?

Traditional Dutch house architecture — Traditional Dutch architecture.

THE BEST HOTEL LIST

Wander through the 9 streets. It is a cozy neighborhood filled with unique concept stores & boutiques selling different styles to the ones most tourist areas feature. If you like vintage stores you’ll find good ones here plus, many spots to stop for coffee, drinks, and bites.
My favorite restaurants: Ree7, Pluk, and Jansz. You can combine it with a visit to the Anne Frank House and a walk around the Jordaan to check out picturesque little streets and art galleries.
Have drinks at the W hotel’s rooftop.
Check out a good cocktail bar in Amsterdam, and we have a great selection!
The hottest cocktail bars at the moment ~
Super Lyan
Law and Order
The Tailor
Check Out This List For More Cocktail Bars In Amsterdam!
If wine is more your thing not to worry! Amsterdam is home to beautiful cozy wine bars.
Click Here For Wine Bar Shortlist!
Visit the Watergasfabriek. A green outdoor cultural hub.
Cruise on the canals. What you’ll see from the water you can’t see when on dry land.
Insider Tip! If you’re visiting between April and October, take the Gs brunch boat ~ Go on the water like a local rather than a tourist. The price includes almost two hours on the water and à la carte menu. Try their Eggs Benedict with a Bloody Mary.
Taste traditional Dutch delicacies in the Albert Cuyp market: Bitterballen, cheese, herring, and of course the delish stroopwafels!
Taste a beer in the best local brewery- You’ll find Brouwerij‘t Ij under a windmill.