Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

Last updated: August 11, 2026
amsterdam adults

Adults, rejoice! This is a child-free zone. Leave the little rascals at home and go check out all the amazing things adults get to do in Amsterdam! In fact, to help you on your way, we've curated this list of all the city's best bits. So, read on, and discover the best things to do in Amsterdam for adults!

Including:

  • Heineken Experience
  • The Rijksmuseum
  • Tour de BonTon
  • House of Bols
  • Moco Museum
  • and more!

A beer tour to remember

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

Let's kick off our guide of things to do in Amsterdam for adults with a trip to a brewery. Nothing screams 'adult' like learning the origins of your beverage. If you've ever wondered where your amber nectar gets created, head to the Heineken Experience and fill your brain with knowledge.

Tour the premises, see how the 'sausage' is made, so to speak, and learn about the history of The Netherlands' most famous export. Then, when all is said and done, sit down for a delightful taste of Heineken's uniquely-brewed magnificence. Two glasses of the goodness are included, so you'll end on a high. Nice.

 

A feast for the senses

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

In the market for some high-brow entertainment on your vacation? Make sure to take a trip to the Rijksmuseum. The country's most famous art museum is massive, so ensure you dedicate a big chunk of your day to explore everything the 5-floor wonder has to offer.

You'll learn about the history of the Netherlands thanks to artworks that span the Middle Ages to the present day. 8,000 artistic objects are housed within, including masterworks from Dutch master artists like Rembrandt. Vermeer, Steen, and many more from the Dutch Golden Age.

A calm retreat from many of the more lively options on this list, it is still a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn more about Dutch culture and history through the medium of art.

 

A red light wander

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

One of Amsterdam's biggest draws is arguably its Red Light District, which attracts countless curious observers and punters every year. And at the very heart of the district, you'll find the BonTon.

Over the years, it's established itself as the most exclusive strip club and sex work house in the city. And now, they open their doors to anyone who'd like to tour the premises and learn about the history of sex work in Amsterdam, as well as the club.

Over 60 minutes, you'll tour the entire premises, see the stage area, backstage, and even get a glance at the private rooms upstairs. Not while the punters are around, of course.

Easily one of the best things to do in Amsterdam for sex-positive adults who are curious about the goings on in the Red Light District.

 

Bol-ing for booze

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

It may shock you to know that gin isn't that old. In fact, it's only been around since the 17th century. What were folks in Europe drinking before that to warm their cockles? Well, that would be genever. You may never have heard of it, but gin's predecessor beat it to market by a cool 400 years.

But why are we regaling you with tales of the gin before gin? Well, because at the House of Bols, you can try it for yourself! Within its walls, you'll find a museum that charts the history of the brand while doing a deeper dive on genever than we ever could. You can then visit the tasting room, where you can try some of this Dutch favorite for yourself. Afterward, if you feel the need to imbibe a little more, step into the chic onsite bar and order from their brilliant menu.

New age art in an old age building

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

If you prefer your art to be more on the modern side, Amsterdam's got you covered. Go see some current greats and expand your mind at the Moco Museum.

Inside a large, unassuming townhouse in the center of Museumplein, and curated by the street giant Banksy, you'll find plenty of pieces that shine a critical light on politics, society, and the world as a whole. Through a series of mainstay pieces and rotating exhibits, you'll discover works from modern art giants like Hirst, Kusama, and KAWS.

And some pieces even have AR capability, so you can get your phone out and see them from a different perspective. An unassuming picture of birds may come to life as you look through your phone screen. Breathtaking stuff, and you won't find anything else quite like it in the center of Amsterdam!

 

Boozy brunch cruise

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

Ever had a boozy brunch on a boat? If you have, it probably wasn't while you were gliding down the stunning canals that call Amsterdam home. And that's exactly what you'll get on G's Brunch Boat!

For 75 minutes, you'll ride the waterways, sipping on bottomless cocktails, beers, or wines, and chow down on some delicious breakfast treats. Eggs Benny, chicken and waffles, breakfast burritos, and even s'more-covered delights are all on offer.

Definitely more fun with friends, G's Brunch Boat is one of the most unique things to do in Amsterdam for brunch-hungry adults. So, if you like your breakfasts closer to lunch, why not hop aboard and see what all the fuss is about?

 

Hit up the Dam bars

Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

And we'll end things on a similar note, with our recommendations for the best bars in Amsterdam you should check out before you head home.

For cocktail aficionados, there's Bar TwentySeven, which has a fantastic menu, chilled atmosphere, and some of the best service in town. Or, if you like the trend of old-timey speakeasies, check out Door 74. Alongside its era-perfect atmosphere and Art Deco furnishings, you'll find a menu flush with cocktail classics. Plus, it's right next to the busy restaurant district in Reguliersdwarsstraat, a name you'll have no hope of pronouncing after you've had a few drinks.

Or, if you're looking for a beer, you have a few options. If you fancy the trek and the weather's good, hop on the Centraal Station free ferry to Noord, and go visit the Oedipus Taproom. Craft beer is their game, and their one of the biggest in the city. Sit outside and soak up the sun, or head inside for board games and bbq. Or, if you don't fancy the trip, check out Cafe Gollem and their awe-inspiring beer menu that spans multiple pages.

And that's our list of the best things to do in Amsterdam for adults! There's so much to do and see in the city, why not grab an Amsterdam pass and see it all?

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Amsterdam for Pride Day

Amsterdam is an absolute blast during Pride week, which usually runs up to and including the first Saturday of August, and includes hundreds of ace LGBTQ+ events across the city. This epic festival of love, diversity and inclusion draws in over half a million visitors, all eager to get involved in the huge club nights, street parties and cultural events that have become its calling cards. Then there’s the parade. Not just any old Pride parade, this one takes place along the Dam’s famous canals and lasts for much of the afternoon, kicking off an all-day party that continues well into the wee small hours. Hop aboard for our guide to all the best things to do in Amsterdam during Pride Week… Pride March Amsterdam’s Pride’s opening event is an absolute corker. Get dressed in your brightest, most flamboyant colors for the annual Pride March, a love-soaked meander through central Amsterdam that (while the route varies year by year) will generally take you along picturesque canals and down cobbled streets, passing major attractions like the splendid Rijksmuseum along the way. Inspiring opening speeches are followed by much singing, dancing and general merriment as the festival gets into its stride at the opening party after the march, with live performers, food stalls and bars galore. Find out more about this year’s Pride Walk here. Pride Park Slap bang in the middle of Amsterdam’s lush Vondelpark, Pride Park runs in tandem with the opening march, with all manner of festive fun and games for the whole family. There’s an open-air theater, plus live music, sporting activities and more. There’s even a special area especially for kids. The Junior Pride x Pride Park event comes complete with bouncy castles, popcorn and cotton candy, and there are plenty more things to do in and around the park if the kids get bored (or they need to run off some of that sugar-based energy). Check out our guide to Vondelpark and Amsterpark here. LoveSwim “We don’t even swim straight.” So goes the tagline of this fun annual event, which sees hundreds of willing participants plunge into the Amstel River in support of LGBTQ+ causes. You’ll need to register well in advance if you want to take part, with distances starting at just 250 meters meaning swimmers of (almost) all abilities can dive in from the famous platform and take part. Of course, you could show your support by simply spectating instead: it’s drier, for a start. There’s also a bar and several food stalls, and everyone knows there’s nothing worse than a soggy falafel wrap. Live DJs keep the party atmosphere going throughout.  Find out more and register to take part here. Cultural Events at Amsterdam Pride Culture vultures rejoice! Amsterdam Pride has dozens of events just for you. We’re talking the likes of open-air cinema, queer walking tours, gay improv comedy, even fetish-friendly classical music concerts. It’s also worth checking out some of Amsterdam’s museums. Many, including the famous Rijksmuseum, put on special tours during Pride, highlighting the work of LGBTQ+ artists and exploring themes around sexuality and gender in art. Find out more about queer cultural events across Amsterdam here. Milkshake Festival An open-minded and inclusive electronic music and dance festival, Milkshake generally runs across Pride’s opening weekend, bringing high-energy techno, house, pop, disco and r’n’b to the masses. Rustle up your best outfit and get ready for a three-day love-fest that includes international DJs, drag acts and musicians – performers in previous years include Ana Matronic, The Blessed Madonna and Ultra Nate. Expect multiple dance floors, a huge inflatable pink church and many more epic entertainments. There are usually also all-night after parties at the legendary Paradiso venue on the Saturday and Sunday nights of the festival. You’ll need to book well in advance for both events – these are hugely popular and tend to sell out fast. Get more info on Milkshake here. Canal Parade The absolute centerpiece of Amsterdam Pride is the quite extraordinary and frankly eye-popping flotilla that is the annual Canal Parade. This marks the grand finale to a week of Pride events and takes place on the first Saturday of August. We won’t sugar-coat this: the route gets *extremely* busy both on and off the water during the parade. On the plus side, it’s seven kilometers long, so do your research to find the less crowded areas, or go all in and wake up early to bag your spot on one of the (unsurprisingly) popular canal bridges. For this is where you’re guaranteed the very best views, photo opportunities and, well, bragging rights. The parade starts in the east of the city at around noon, reaching popular Prinsengracht about an hour later, and continuing on through the canals towards the Westerdok. But that ain’t the end of the party. Far from it, in fact… Parties! Pride Amsterdam’s official closing party takes place in front of the opulent Royal Palace on on Dam Square, featuring a huge stage and performers from around the world. But there are plenty more options available, not least the huge number of street parties that will be taking place across the city, including a big one at Amstelveld just off the Canal Parade route. Afterwards, hit up some of Amsterdam’s best clubs, where the post-Pride party goes into overdrive. Try FunHouse, Taboo, the Paradiso and Club NYX for some of the best Pride events in town. Best of the Rest: Amsterdam’s Top Attractions So you’re mainly in Amsterdam for Pride. But don’t let that stop you checking out some of this Venice of the North’s many fine attractions. You could save up to 50% on a variety of tours, activities and attractions with a Go Amsterdam pass, including bucket-listers like… Sampling one of Amsterdam’s greatest exports at the Heineken Experience. Saying ‘hey’ to Lady Gaga, Harry Styles and the Incredible Hulk at Madame Tussauds. Having a poke around Rembrandt’s old house. Ogling masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age at the incredible Rijksmuseum. Taking a cruise along the Amsterdam canals (though not during the parade, obvs). Letting loose at an 80s-themed roller disco, complete with glitter balls and neon lights. … and many more! Find out more and get your Amsterdam attractions pass here.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Entrance to Vondelpark in Amsterdam
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Amstelpark or Vondelpark Comparison

Amsterdam’s flat terrain, picturesque canals, attractive architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets makes it a fine city for strolling (and indeed cycling). But did you know the ‘Dam is also home to some of the most perfect parks in Europe? We’re talking the Vondelpark, the Westerpark, the Amstelpark and the Rembrandtpark, to name just a few. But which is best? We pit glorious green gems Vondelpark and Amstelpark against each other, taking a deep dive into their various attractions, family friendliness and more, to find out. Read on for the lowdown in our Amstel park and Vondelpark comparison… Vondelpark Name: originally named Nieuwe Park (New Park), it was quickly renamed Vondelpark in honor of Joost van den Vondel after a statue of the 17th-century writer and playwright was erected here, on a plinth designed by celebrated Rijksmuseum architect Pierr Cuypers, no less. Age and location: Vondelpark opened in Amsterdam-Zuid borough in 1865, west of the Museumplein and Leidseplein. Vondelpark in brief: an urban oasis par excellence, Vondelpark covers some 120 acres of prime Amsterdam real estate in the heart of the city, making it the largest park in town. Beloved of locals and visitors alike (it attracts around 10 million visitors annually), it’s a sprawling green gem, crammed with statues, sculptures, manicured gardens, tranquil lakes, cute cafés, picture-perfect footbridges, and recreational opportunities galore. The park was originally designed by 19th-century landscape architect Jan David Zocher and his son Louis Paul Zocher, and has undergone oodles of additions, expansions and improvements since opening as a green space for strolling and horse-riding over a century-and-a-half ago, in the summer of 1865. Unmissable Vondelpark Highlights The jewel in Vondelpark’s considerable crown is the Openluchttheater, a wonderful open-air stage that hosts events every year between May and September, from stand-up comedy to classical music, as well as plays and kids entertainers. There are something like 70 statues and sculptures dotted around Vondelpark. A towering concrete piece, Picasso’s abstract 1965 masterpiece Figure découpée (aka L’oiseau aka The Bird), is perhaps the most celebrated, and was donated by the artist himself for the park’s centenary. Follow your nose to the splendid rose garden in the middle of the park. The garden was added in 1935 and contains some 70 species of the romantic blooms. Of course, relaxation and recreation are key here, and there are plenty of paths for strolling, cycling, jogging and rollerblading. You can also do as the Amsterdammers do: grab a picnic lunch and a spliff, and find a shady spot beneath the poplars to while away the afternoon. How Family-Friendly is Vondelpark? Vondelpark’s ace playgrounds feature great treehouse-like structures that are manna for adventurous kids (and parents looking for a break). Besides these, there are plenty of wide open spaces to roam, trees to climb, and spots to play hide and seek. Heck, there’s even a maze to get lost in. Hit up the Swiss-chalet-style Het Groot Melkhuis on the edge of the Vondelpark Forest for casual café food and drinks – the playground and sandpits here make it the ideal go-to for hungry families. Note that Vondelpark is open 24 hours, but somewhat less child-friendly after dark, when courting couples are legally permitted to get, ahem, jiggy on the lawns. Amstelpark Name: Amstelpark is named after the river on which it sits. Age and location: opened for the Floriade 1972 garden festival, Amstelpark is a mere whippersnapper compared to Vondelpark. It also lies a little further off Amsterdam’s main drag than its elder cousin, around six kilometers south of Centraal Station. Amstelpark in brief: Though lacking some of the spectacle of Vondelpark, Amstelpark still packs a decent punch. Its origins as a horticultural garden shine through to this day and you’ll find plenty of rhododendron and rose gardens that burst into color, providing Insta-perfect selfie backdrops during the season. A cute train, a petting zoo and the biggest playground in Amsterdam also makes this one a top choice for family days out. Unmissable Amstelpark Highlights The Rosarium and Rhododendron Valley are Amstelpark’s standout botanical highlights. Around 140 species of rhododendron burst into fragrant bloom in April and May, providing one of the most colorful flower shows in town (no mean feat in the tulip capital of the world!). Meanwhile, the Rosarium showcases over 400 varieties of rose in summer, when the riot of bright colors and heady scents is liable to leave your head spinning. Fans of all things Dutch will find much to enjoy at the Riekermolen windmill, set next to the Amstel River on the park’s southern edge. The sails of this 17th-century beauty are set spinning again on some weekends in summer, and there’s a statue of Rembrandt nearby, in homage to his love of the landscapes around the Amstel River. The miniature train that weaves through Amstelpark is one of its most popular attractions. Hop aboard in summer to make the best of all those wonderfully verdant vistas. How Family-Friendly is Amstelpark? It’s fair to say Amstelpark trumps Vondelpark when it comes to facilities for children. That miniature train is a guaranteed hit, for starters, And that’s before we even get to the mini-golf, labyrinth, and petting zoo with rabbits, goats, sheep and chickens. The Speeltuin playground here is also really quite something. Kids could spend hours here, taking on the adventure zone, going bumper to bumper on the disco boats, riding the merry-go-round, and racing the super trucks. Save on Tours, Attractions and Activities in Amsterdam Save on admission to Amsterdam attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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