Adventurous Things to do in Amsterdam

Published: July 18, 2024
adventure amsterdam

Calling all adventurers! Are you a brave soul that faces the extreme with a smile? Do death-defying feats fill you with a lust for life like no other? Well then, you've come to the right place. Amsterdam might not seem like the city to cater to your needs at first, but look beneath the surface, and you'll find plenty of adventurous things to do in Amsterdam. Don't believe us? Shame on you. Here, we'll prove it to you. Here are our picks for the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam! You are very welcome.

Including:

  • THIS IS HOLLAND
  • A'DAM LOOKOUT
  • Bungee jumping
  • Cycle far and wide
  • Kayak on the canal
  • and more!
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Jump, go ahead and jump

To adventurous types like yourself, heights probably aren't too much of an issue. After all, there are adventures to be had high above the pathetic sea level, right?

Well, how do you feel about jumping off a crane? At Faralda Crane Hotel, you can do just that. This crane/hotel, something that was strange even to write, you don't just have to stay the night in one of the most stylish yet strange hotels in the city. You can also scale the building and bungee jump from the crane itself. Madness.

And this isn't your usual head-first affair. Oh no, this is feet-first bungee, devoid of the usual blood rush to the head of your standard jump. So go on, prove how adventurous you really are, and jump from a crane! Definitely one of the craziest things to do in Amsterdam.

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5D Thrills

When reality doesn't quite cut it for your adventurous side, why not try another dimension? At THIS IS HOLLAND, you'll fly through the skies of Amsterdam, feeling the wind in your hair. Sea spray will patter your face as you glide across the city's rivers. All of that, and you won't even leave your seat.

This thrill ride is composed of four shows, each giving you fantastic and unique views of the city. You'll learn about Amsterdam's past and present as you soar through the air. All the while, your seat mimics the show's motions, and you'll feel the wind, rain, and much more as advanced technology throws everything at you. Sublime.

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Wheely good

Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones we make ourselves. After all, what we think is adventurous might not quite align with the offerings of a city. So, why not set out on your own and cycle out of town?

The Netherlands is a gloriously pretty country, with rolling hills, flower-filled fields, and more windmills than you can shake a turbine at. And best of all, many of the country's freeways have dedicated cycle lanes safely slotted beside them. So, get on your bike, and go explore! The Flower Strip is around 25 miles south of the city, making it the perfect picturesque getaway for you adventurous creatures.

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Tread water

Visitors to Amsterdam will soon discover the city's affinity to water. It's literally everywhere, with canals and river estuaries snaking their way through the city. You'll likely spend much of your vacation crossing these by bridge, or walking beside them as you get about. You can even take boat tours of the city. But where's the adventure in that?

You know what you have to do. You have to conquer these waters yourself! So get out there, hire a kayak, and take to the waters like a modern-day, solo pirate. Just with less of the plundering and more of the water mastery. Easily one of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam, and one of the best ways to see the city in all its beautiful glory.

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Lick a shot

Picture the scene - you're deep in enemy territory. Your opponents have you pinned down, and it's looking dicey. But then, as the fear begins to wash over you like a claustrophobic blanket of terror, you breathe out, shake it off, and bravely stand to face your foe. As you return fire, you're peppered with invisible bullets. Your battered suit lets out an exhausted set of beeps. You've been shot one too many times, and it's getting tired of keeping score. But you are unharmed. And better yet, you're ready to enact revenge on the scallywags. Now that's an adventure.

That scene is just a microcosm of fun at Lasertag Amsterdam. Inside, between 2 and 24 people will, run, gun, and have ultimate fun during 30-minute battles. Do you have what it takes to top the scoreboard? You'll just have to find out for yourself, you adventurous wonder.

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Look out below!

Heights mean nothing to adventurers like you. So why not test your mettle at A'DAM LOOKOUT? This innocuous-looking observation deck might not seem too daring at first. Sure, the view of the city is one-of-a-kind. But it's safe. Perhaps too safe.

Well, look again, because A'DAM LOOKOUT has a terrifying secret. It's called 'Over the Edge', and its only for the most stern of heart. This giant swing careens over the edge of the observation deck 100 meters in the air. That makes it easily one of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam! But, if you wuss out, we won't judge you for it. There are still thrills to be had beyond the views. Safer thrills, but thrills nonetheless. Hop into the VR booth, and go on a virtual rollercoaster ride through the city's streets. Awesome.

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Monkey around

Do you ever look up at trees and wish you could swing through them as our long-lost ancestors did? Yes, evolution is real, and yes, so do we! And now you can, thanks to Fun Forest Amsterdam!

Forego the country's flatland and trade it in for a little tree climbing. Test your mettle on arduous rope courses, fly through the air on the ziplines, and clamber about on all the other tree-climbing paraphernalia. It's a one-way ticket to fun town. Population? You.

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Get wild at the beach

Amsterdam might not be known for its water sports, but what do people know? Some people believe the Earth is flat, so it's not like they can be trusted. Prove them wrong, and partake in some exciting and, dare we say it, adventurous watersports in the city!

At Amsterdam Watersports, you can take part in a myriad of exciting water-based activities, from wakeboarding, surfing, jet surfing, and even flyboarding. No, we didn't make that last one up. If you've ever seen videos of those people using water-powered jet boots to fly into the sky like Tony Stark, it's that. And it's fantastic.

And that's our list of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Amsterdam canal houses and bridge reflected in a still canal
Blog

Things to do in Amsterdam

One of the most renowned cities in Europe, Amsterdam is known the world over for its wealth of unparalleled cultural, historical and social hubs. All manner of visitors flock to the Dutch capital to walk in the footsteps of world-famous artists, explore streets and squares brimming with character and to cash in on some of the best nightlife on the continent. Unlike many other seasonal destinations, Amsterdam manages to deliver some of the most engaging activities and attractions year-round. Whether you're an art aficionado or a beer connoisseur, you'll find that there's never any shortage of great things to do in Amsterdam. Museums & Art Galleries Rijksmuseum One of the most important museums in both the Netherlands and indeed Europe as a whole, the Rijksmuseum stands as the largest museum in Amsterdam. Dominating the popular Museumplein, the museum is easily one of the most recognizable monuments in the city, most notably for its striking Renaissance- and Gothic-inspired architecture. The grand halls of the Rijksmuseum are home to a vast collection of art pieces and historical artifacts, illustrating the art and history of the Netherlands from the Dutch Golden Age to present day. Among its more than 8,000-strong collection are priceless pieces from such renowned Dutch artists as Rembrandt and Vermeer, including the former’s famous Night Watch painting. Amsterdam Museum Combining both historical artifacts and striking artworks, the Amsterdam Museum stands as the Netherlands’ most complete public chronology of the Dutch capital’s history. The museum sits within the canal band, just a short walk from the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. The museum documents the city’s growth from a thirteenth-century settlement on the banks of the River Amstel to the thriving cultural center we know today. Everything from archeological finds and historical artifacts to the works of such Dutch masters as Rembrandt help to paint a picture of life in Amsterdam and the Low Countries as a whole throughout various periods in history. Van Gogh Museum Having lived and worked in the Netherlands throughout his life, it’s only fitting that Amsterdam’s most significant art gallery be dedicated to the world’s most famous painter, Vincent Van Gogh. Just a brief walk from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum stands as the most complete permanent collection of the Dutch painter’s works. Among the gallery’s vast collection of permanent exhibits are over 200 original paintings and 500 drawings from the Post-Impressionist artist, alongside exhibitions showcasing the works of his contemporaries. The museum is separated chronologically into five periods, each exploring a different key period in his life and work. Anne Frank House Easily the most visited historical site in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. Once the original house in which the famous wartime diarist evaded German capture, the building now serves as a museum documenting her family’s more than two years in hiding, along with sobering insights into Jewish persecution under the Nazi regime throughout the Second World War. Located on the outer banks of Amsterdam’s canal band, visitors can explore the former premises of the Frank family business, most notably the original concealed annex in which they managed to remain in hiding. While the rooms of the property now sit empty of original furniture, they still breathe the chilling atmosphere of the period. Outdoor Spaces ARTIS Royal Zoo One of the oldest zoos in Europe, the Natura Artis Magistra was established in the mid-1800s and has since continued to offer an enchanting escape from the busy streets of Amsterdam for families and nature lovers alike. Commonly known simply as ARTIS, the location comprises both a botanical garden and zoological garden. Home to over 200 unique species of trees – many on the brink of extinction – alongside over 900 animals from all manner of habitats around the world, the zoo serves to educate visitors as to the vital role that every living creature plays in nature. The site is also home to an aquarium, a planetarium and an impressive art and sculpture collection. Vondelpark For a brief escape from the bustling streets of the Dutch capital, Amsterdam is home to a wide selection of beautifully serene green spaces. Most popular among these is the Vondelpark, whose 120-acre footprint houses ancient trees, scenic lakes, charming gardens and a variety of delightful bars and cafés. Westerpark Westerpark is another popular choice as, connecting to the Westergasfabriek complex, it serves as a home to some of the city’s most hip bars and restaurants, along with an arthouse cinema. Visitors can hire a boat to cruise along the Haarlemmerweg canal into the city, or attend some of the great food and music festivals hosted in the park throughout the year. Keukenhof Park If you happen to visit Amsterdam during the spring, then you should definitely consider a trip to the nearby town of Lisse. Only an hour’s train ride from Amsterdam, Lisse is home to Keukenhof Park, sometimes known as the Garden of Europe, where you’ll find the Netherlands’ best display of tulips and other flowers punctuated by the ever so iconic Dutch windmills. Getting Around Bike Rental Home to more bicycles than people, Amsterdam is a city literally built for cycling. With over 470 miles of cycle lanes making up the Amsterdam Bicycle Network, cycling can often be the easiest means of getting around. What’s more, it doesn’t get much more authentically Dutch than exploring the capital on your own pair of wheels. If you’d like to make your visit a more active one, then you can pick up a bike at one of the many rental shops spread throughout the city. You can expect to pay somewhere in the region of €10/day at most shops, while some may also offer weekly or hourly packages. Once you’re up and running, why not choose one of the city’s many stunning routes to follow for the day? Canal Boats While Amsterdam’s labyrinth of canals are certainly pretty to look at and make for a fantastic photo op, they also offer a brilliant alternative means of exploring the city. The capital’s huge boating industry comprises countless companies offering all manner of excursions through the canals. If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Amsterdam, then a hop-on, hop-off boat ride could be the ideal transportation for you. But where the city’s boating industry arguably shines brightest is in its specialist canal tours, offering visitors an overview of many of Amsterdam’s top attractions, complete with audio commentary to provide unique insights into their cultural and historical significance. Retail Therapy Magna Plaza Housed within the elegant Neo-Gothic halls of a former nineteenth-century post office, the Magna Plaza is a relatively small shopping center oozing with character and class. Among its various outlets are a number of fashion retailers, along with places to buy unique souvenirs and a host of other miscellaneous vendors. Kalverpassage Standing as a commercial through route between Heiligeweg and Kalverstraat, the Kalverpassage offers a wholly modern shopping experience. Natural light flows from the glass ceilings throughout the mini mall, illuminating its many specialty boutiques, food outlets and art installations. The design of the space allows for those interested to shop at their leisure and those simply passing through to do so without obstruction. De Bijenkorf At the beating heart of Amsterdam, De Bijenkorf – ‘The Beehive’ in English – is the Netherland’s most renowned premium department store. Established in 1870, the venue showcases the highest standard of quality throughout the stores in its roster. Luxury is the operative word here, with its five floors of outlets simply brimming with class and style. Nightlife & Entertainment Heineken Experience Historic home to one of the world’s most iconic beer brands, Amsterdam’s Heineken Experience takes visitors on a unique behind-the-scenes journey through the production and history of the popular pilsner. The tour guides beer fans through various aspects of the brewing process, from product innovation to the brand’s light-hearted marketing efforts, before rounding off with a refreshing tasting session. Bars & Clubs Europe’s most famous city for hedonistic pleasures gains its reputation largely from its bustling nightlife scene. Popular venues can be found throughout the city, but as a general rule of thumb, the old area of Jordaan is typically very popular with young people for its trendy bars. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are particularly popular for their club offerings, while the street of Nes often attracts more of an intellectual theater crowd, particularly around this period. Specialty Venues Few things complement a rainy day better than a steaming cup of coffee, a slice of homemade cake and an expansive collection of family favorite board games. That’s exactly the niche on which Checkpoint Charlie capitalizes. Its cozy aesthetic is bolstered by its sociable table layout, along with a variety of books and board games for customers to enjoy. The venue also hosts intimate gigs from international acts toward the end of the week. A number of venues throughout Amsterdam offer a similarly jovial atmosphere, with somewhat more of a specialty focus. Mooie Boules, for example, gives visitors the chance to sink a few beers and chat while watching or even playing a few games of classic French boules on the impressive sand pitch at its center.
Robert Heaney
valentines day amsterdam
Blog

Valentine's Day in Amsterdam

Love. Perhaps the strongest of human emotions, according to some space-faring films, love can transcend time itself. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Let's start small, with everyone's favorite corporately-enforced love-iday, Valentine's Day. It's the one day a year when you're allowed to express your love to another, so make the most of it. And where better to do that than Amsterdam? One of Europe's most picturesque cities, it's ripe for Valentine's Day shenanigans. But if you've never been, or need a little help planning out the big day, we've come in clutch. Here's everything you need to know about Amsterdam to make Valentine's Day a day to remember. Including: Breakfast and brunch fun Romantic travel Loved up picnics in the park Love imitating art A canal send-off and more! Rise and shine Start things off with a bang - an amazing breakfast, of course! Amsterdam has plenty of brilliant breakfast and brunch spots, so take your pick. If you're looking for the Dutch spin on a full English, check out Greenwoods. If you've got plenty of activity packed into your Valentine's Day, you'll need a good meal to fuel you up. If the full English doesn't float your boat, they do pancakes, scrambled eggs, avocado toast, and loads more. Heading out later than breakfast? Grab brunch at G's Really Nice Place. Their chicken and waffles are to die for, especially when paired with a couple of cheeky cocktails. You could even dial the romance up to 11 and take your beloved on a boat brunch cruise through the city. Splendid. Looking for something lighter? Try Rum Baba. This coffee house/bakery/cafe has plenty of freshly-made treats, including vegan cake slices and other pastry treats; ideal if you want to stop off briefly before your date-day commences! Move it When your food has settled, and you're ready to bounce, don't hail a cab or board a tram. No! Get those limbs working, you jabroni. Amsterdam is such a beautiful city, so get your walking boots on or rent a couple of bikes to get to your next destination! You can laugh, cry, and enact all the other perfectly normal Valentine's emotions while seeing the beautiful city up close. Amsterdam is a city built with cycling in mind, so if you choose two wheels over two feet, you're in for a treat. You could even cycle out of the city to a romantic destination of your choosing. The Keukenhof Tulip Gardens, for instance, are only an hour or so away by bike, and offer fields upon fields of beautiful, multicolored wonders for you and your loved one to appreciate. Then, when you've had quite enough of the plants, cycle back and carry on your day. A bit of sweat never hurt anyone, right? A Valentine's picnic, anyone? What says 'I love you, but I don't want to spend much money proving it to you' more than a thoughtful picnic in the park? All that greenery, the sound of various fauna enjoying the sun, and the complete absence of pollution. Does it get any more romantic than that? If you're nodding your head right now, you'll be pleased to hear that Amsterdam is teeming with public parks. If you're looking for natural beauty over opportunity, pack a basket and take your picnic to Hortus Botanicus. This stunning park is punctuated with a set of greenhouses, which contain tons of exotic plants from all over the world. Find a plant that matches your partner's hair, and point it out to them - it could be romantic? Or, if you want a world of entertainment just a stone's throw away, take your picnic plans to Westerpark. Not only do they have tons of space to set out your picnic blanket and food, but they also have a plethora of bars and restaurants on-site that can do all the heavy lifting for you. You could even catch a show there, if you're theatrically inclined. Artistic license If you want to get your creative juices flowing, why not try a little art? Amsterdam has plenty of brilliant art galleries and museums for you to visit. If you've spent all day running around outside, perhaps a little inside contemplation would be just the ticket. Fans of post-impressionist landscapes, strange self-portraits, and ear-cutting hijinks, then there's a museum that's perfect for you. We're talking, of course, about the Van Gogh Museum. Learn all about the life and times of the master painter, explore his works through the years, and maybe pick your loved one up a gift at the shop if they're into it. Or, go modern with a trip to the Moco Museum. This thought-provoking collection of street art, featuring spray juggernaut Banksy, will open your mind and have you stroking your chin in thought. Then, when you're done, take proceedings to the nearby Cobra Cafe to grab a coffee or refreshing drink, and discuss what you just saw and how it made you feel. Valentine's Day is all about feelings, and in Amsterdam, it's no different. A smooch cruise Then, with the sun slowly setting, it's time to end your evening. If your partner's hungry, tell them you'll get takeout, but not before you stroll to Centraal Station to see the boats. Then, without warning, surprise your beloved with a luxury dinner cruise! They'll never see it coming, you devious dog. This two-and-a-half-hour cruise comes with a 5-course dinner, topped up with champagne, and features a plethora of meat, fish, or veggie options. A candlelit dinner has never been more romantic, and will end your Valentine's Day in Amsterdam with a bang! And that's our plan for Valentine's Day in Amsterdam! If you're visiting the city over the romantic period, you might be wondering what else to do while you're there. Wonder no longer. You thrill-seeking types will love our guide to adventurous japes. Forced to drag the kids along with you? Apologies, but we can help keep them entertained. Or, if your Valentine's Day in Amsterdam broke the bank, there are a bunch of cheap things you can do until payday. You are very welcome.
Dom Bewley

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