Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

Published: July 18, 2024
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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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Cheap Things to do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, you say? Yes, it's one of Europe's finest cities, with a canal-load of things to do, see, hear, and taste. But, after a few days of sampling the city's many delights, your wallet might be suffering somewhat. You want cheap things to do in Amsterdam? You've got cheap things to do in Amsterdam! Without further ado, here's our guide to the best cheap things to do in Amsterdam! Including: Museums Bike hire Pedal boats See a new movie Cocktail tours and more!   Get Cultural Unlike some European cities, practically all of Amsterdam's museums require an entry fee. Some of these can set you back a fair price, while others are a lot more reasonable. In the spirit of our topic, let's discuss the latter! Something that makes Amsterdam stand out is its Red Light District. The city's progressive approach to sex work draws both admiration and ire from different parts of the world, but if you're interested in its erotic history, check out the Erotic Museum. Inside, you'll find art pieces, sculptures, and some hilarious forms of media that shine a light on Amsterdam's kinkier side. It's only €7 to get in, so even visitors with a passing interest may find it hard to pass up. Another big draw for tourists is Amsterdam's legalization of cannabis. While many cities, states, and even countries have now followed suit, a decade ago, Dam led the charge. Of course, the plant has a rich history with humanity, one that you can explore at the Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum. It's just €9 for entry, and you'll be able to explore multiple exhibits that show hemp's use throughout the centuries.   Get riding! Amsterdam is known for many things; progressive policies, beautiful landscapes, and the abundance of canals and rivers, to name but a few. Another of the city's most unique traits is the way it has embraced cycling. You'll find dedicated cycle lanes on nearly every main road, plenty of car-free streets, and even the city's food delivery services tend to use bikes over cars or mopeds. So why not hire a bike and see more of the city! With the fresh air in your face, you'll get the chance to avoid what little traffic Amsterdam has, and dart about the city to see the sights! Plus, plenty of cycle lanes run alongside the myriad canals and rivers, ensuring you'll have great views along the way.   Puss N Boats Recently, you may have seen a rise in the 'animal cafe' scene. For the uninitiated, these cafes are often full of adorable, fluffy friends such as dogs, cats, or other acceptable critters. Patrons can interact with them while they eat, drink, or whatever else they feel like doing there. But Amsterdam is a progressive city of the future. They don't need cat cafes anymore. They've upgraded...to cat boats. De Poezenboot, or Cat Boat, is a state-of-the-art boat full of cats. Cats that you can go and see right now. It's free to board the SS Meowsly (not the real name, but it should be), but they do accept donations from visitors who want to keep this floating cat shelter afloat. Pun intended because all puns are, whether people want to admit it or not.   Pedal to the wood If you want to actually ride those sweet canal waves at breakneck speed, you'll need a boat. But throw your motorboats out, get rid of your jetskis, and certainly ditch your luxury yachts. We're going analog, baby. As analog as it gets. Channel your inner cyclist and hire a pedal boat to burn around Amsterdam's snaking canal system. Split the cost, and the effort, with three friends, and you can hire one for just over €6 an hour. It's easily one of the best cheap things to do in Amsterdam, and a great way to see the city from a different angle!   Pancakes! The Dutch pride themselves on their pancakes. It's as simple as that. It's an infectious desire that's made its way to all corners of the Earth. There's nothing quite like those fluffy, joyous things. So, when in Rome, why not indulge in them yourself? Pancake Amsterdam offers a tasting session for a very reasonable price. €5 will get you the pancake of your choice from their wide selection of multicultural offerings. Then, if one just isn't enough, you can grab a table and order from their diverse menu of delicious treats.   Movie Magic Sure, sitting in a movie theater on your vacation might be a strange idea, but bear with us. Amsterdam's weather can be unpredictable at best, and downright alarming at worst. Should the heavens open up a split second after the sun was shining, you might yearn for the safety, comfort, and dryness of a theater. Thankfully, Filmhuis Cavia has you covered. This snug, 40-seater theater is an underground, non-profit cinema that shows arthouse films. So, if you're in the mood to delve into the mind of strange creators who live in the leftfield, then why not give it ago? Each screening will only set you back €5, so even if you tire of the sepia-toned film about hats that definitely has a deeper meaning, you can always hop up and out when the rain inevitably passes in 10-15 minutes!   Pick and Mix The spirit aficionados out there will be of gin's resurgence as one of the hottest drinks on the scene. The craft beer revolution of the past 15 years has also seen gin ride its coattails to become the de-facto spirit for the young and restless. But did you know that before gin came genever? Does the name genever fill your mind with questions? Well, have them answered at the House of Bols. For just €16, you can enter this genever distillery, tour the premises, learn all about the history of this curious spirit, and then sample some of the brand's premium spirit. What a deal. And who knows, maybe genever will usurp your love of gin and take its place as the rightful ruler? And that's our guide to the best cheap things to do in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley
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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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Adventurous Things to do in 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! 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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

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