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Vondel Magazine

Top 10 Things to Do in Amsterdam in 2025

Amsterdam is a city where history, art, and modern culture harmoniously co-exist. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to explore. From canal cruises to world-renowned museums and hidden gems, the city never ceases to amaze.

This guide highlights the top 10 things to do in Amsterdam in 2025 to make the most of your stay. Plus, we’ve included Vondel Hotels locations near each attraction to help you plan the perfect trip.

1. Cruise the canals

Amsterdam’s canals define the city’s identity, and a boat tour is the best way to experience them. With departures near Central Station, close to Hotel MAI, you can choose from classic sightseeing cruises, pedal boats, or evening wine-and-cheese tours to name a few.

Glide past landmarks like the Amstel River, Skinny Bridge, and Carré Theatre, while learning about the city's rich history. Whether you opt for an open-boat experience or a dinner cruise, this is a must-do activity.

For more information, visit these websites: Lovers Canal Cruises, Amsterdam Canal Cruises, Amsterdam Canal Cruises

2. Explore world-renowned museums

For art and history lovers, Museumplein is home to:

Rijksmuseum – Masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Van Gogh Museum – The world’s largest Van Gogh collection.
Stedelijk Museum – Modern art by Mondrian, Picasso, and Warhol.

These museums are within walking distance of Hotel Roemer and Hotel JL No76.

For a deeper emotional experience, visit the Anne Frank House, located near Hotel Mercier, where her famous diary comes to life.

For a different experience, locals recommend visiting the STRAAT Museum at NDSM, showcasing street art, Fabrique des Lumières, a digital exhibition space in a former gasworks or, the Wereldmuseum dives deep into global cultures, celebrating diverse human traditions from around the world.

3. Take a day trip to the Dutch countryside

If you want a break from city life, at Zaanse Schans you can step back in time by discovering working windmills, cheese farms, and wooden shoe workshops.

Alternatively, Waterland is perfect for cycling through historic villages, easily accessible by ferry from Central Station or Pontsteiger’s ferry ternimals.

Prefer contemporary art? We recommend visiting Flevoland’s Land Art installations -guided tours are available.

Nature lovers can visit Zuid-Kennemerland National Park or Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, where deer freely roam the dunes.

Prefer cycling? Many day trips can be done on two wheels.

4. Relax in Amsterdam’s green spaces & beaches

Amsterdam’s parks and gardens provide a peaceful sanctuary from the city’s hustle.

Vondelpark, near Hotel van de Vijsel, is perfect for jogging, picnicking, or people-watching.
Hortus Botanicus, is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens, near Apartments De Jonker.
Keukenhof Gardens, also known as “the Garden of Europe” is one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Blossoming in spring, it features seven million blooming flowers.

Alternatively, for a beach escape, head to IJmuiden aan Zee, where you can surf, sunbathe, or take a seaside stroll.

5. Experience NDSM’s creative energy

Once a shipyard, NDSM is now one of Amsterdam’s most lively cultural districts. Just a free ferry ride from Central Station and Pontsteiger ferry stations, it’s packed with street art, music venues, festivals, and hip waterfront bars.

It’s also home to STRAAT Museum and Pllek, a beach bar with fire pits and live music—perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

6. Wander through the Nine Streets

In the heart of the Jordaan district, The Nine Streets are filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, bookstores, and artisanal cafés.

This stylish area, close to Hotel Mercier, is ideal for a shopping stroll or a cozy afternoon in a canal-side café. Whether you’re hunting for Dutch design, handcrafted jewelry, or rare books, you’ll find something tailor-made.

7. Enjoy views from A’DAM Tower

For the best panoramic views of Amsterdam, visit A’DAM Tower, located in Amsterdam Noord.

Here, you can enjoy cocktails at a revolving rooftop restaurant, visit its immersive music museum, or try the Over the Edge swing, Europe’s highest swing at 100 meters above the ground.

Getting there? Take the free ferry from Central Station.

8. Discover Amsterdam’s Food & Bike Culture

One of the best ways to experience the city is through its food and cycling culture.

Food Tours – Taste local specialties like Dutch cheese, stroopwafels, and herring on a guided walking tour.
Bike Tours – Join a cycling tour to explore the city like a local, whether you prefer an urban ride or a countryside route.

Check out these websites for more information: Amsterdam Food Tours, 10 Tastes of Amsterdam, Small Group Amsterdam Walking Tours, Get Your Guide.

9. Visit Chinatown

Amsterdam’s Chinatown is a mix of authentic Asian eateries, cultural landmarks, and historic sites.

Located in the heart of the city near Hotel MAI, this lively neighborhood celebrates diverse Asian influences. Highlights include:

Traditional markets and specialty stores like Toko Dun Yong and Amazing Oriental Amsterdam
Authentic Asian eateries and some of the best dim sum in town
Traditional apothecaries and martial arts schools
Foot massage spas and reflexology centers for ultimate relaxation
Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Europe

Discover more in our full Chinatown guide here.

10. Be a local at De Hallen

Set in a former tram depot in Amsterdam’s Oud-West, De Hallen is a lively cultural and culinary hotspot. Home to Foodhallen, it’s the perfect place to sample gourmet street food from around the world.

The complex also features boutique shops, art galleries, a vintage shopping arcade, and De FilmHallen, a cinema showcasing indie films and international hits. On weekends, pop-up art and design markets bring extra energy to this creative space.

Next to De Hallen, you will find Hotel de Hallen, an urban-vintage hotel with exclusive artworks and design pieces which boasts a cozy lounge and Remise 47, a heritage restaurant with a spacious terrace.

To learn more about De Hallen Complex, click here.

Where to Stay: Vondel Hotels & Nearby Attractions

To help plan your stay, here’s a quick guide to Vondel Hotels and their proximity to top attractions:

Hotel MAI - Located in the heart of Chinatown, just steps from Central Station, and close to the starting points of canal cruises and ferry terminals for trips to NDSM, A’DAM Tower, and Waterland’s cycling routes.
Hotel Roemer & Hotel JL No76 - A short walk to Museumplein, the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Vondelpark.
Hotel Mercier - Nestled near The Nine Streets, Anne Frank House, and Jordaan’s charming cafés.
Hotel Pontsteiger - Close to the ferry terminal for NDSM and Waterland’s scenic bike routes.
Hotel van de Vijsel - Steps from Vondelpark and Leidseplein’s nightlife.
De Jonker Urban Studios & Suites - Ideal for visiting ARTIS Zoo, Hortus Botanicus, and the Wereldmuseum.
Hotel de Hallen - Next to De Hallen Complex, FoodHallen, De FilmHallen & local hotspots for food and drinks.

Book your next getaway to Amsterdam with us and explore the city's top attractions from our hotels' prime locations.