Windmill and hot hair balloons over a field of tulips

Outdoor Activities in Amsterdam

By Robert Heaney

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Amsterdam on a particularly clear day, you’ll want to make the very most of the situation. As a city known for its gorgeous waterside architecture and iconic canals, no trip would be complete without giving yourself the chance to really explore its unique streets and squares.

What’s more, there’s a plethora of outdoor activities in Amsterdam to help you make the most of a pleasant day. Whether you’re keen to explore some quaint Dutch markets or take a tour upon the city’s famous canals, there’s plenty to do for all types of visitors.

Cycle Across the City

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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?

Cruise Along the Canals

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Second only to the prevalence of bikes, Amsterdam’s canals are one of the most central symbols of the Dutch capital. Having been built originally for water management, defense and trade purposes, this labyrinth of canals makes up 25% of the city’s total surface area.

While they’re certainly pretty to look at and make for a fantastic (if somewhat overdone) photo op, Amsterdam’s waterways are best experienced on the water itself. Naturally, the city is home to a huge boating industry, with countless companies offering all manner of excursions through the canals.

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the city, then a hop-on, hop-off boat could be the ideal transportation for you. But where the city’s boating industry arguably shines brightest is in its 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.

Discover the ARTIS Royal Zoo

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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.

Spare a Moment in Nature

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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 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.

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.

Grab Yourself a Bargain

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Those with a penchant for finding a bargain can rejoice at the fact that Amsterdam is home to over 20 regularly occurring markets. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, antiques or simple bric-a-brac, chances are one of these markets should scratch that shopping itch.

For all things food, the Albert Cuyp Market takes place every weekday, as does the Marqt Farmer’s Market (excluding Fridays), while the Nieuwmarkt and Noordermarkt Farmers’ Markets take over on Saturdays with their selection of organic goods. Also popular is the Flower Market, which runs Monday to Saturday and offers a wide selection of rare flowers, seeds, bulbs and gardening equipment.

Held each Wednesday and Saturday, the Postzegelmarkt is one for the history buffs, stocking all manner of old coins, medals, stamps and postcards. The Waterlooplein Flea Market is the best stop for antiques and second-hand clothes, open Monday to Saturday and very much open to bartering. For a unique gift, be sure to visit the Boekenmarkt op het Spui, stocking various books, maps, cards and engravings.

Explore Another City

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If you find yourself with a spare day or two and want to see a little more than just Amsterdam, then there are plenty of nearby cities to explore. With most destinations throughout the Netherlands easily reachable within a couple hours by train, it’s perfectly doable to slot some excursions into your itinerary.

The fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, Utrecht is often considered Europe’s most beautiful canal city – even overtaking Amsterdam! Known for mixing big city amenities with a provincial atmosphere, the city is home to both medieval architecture and one of the Netherlands’ largest shopping malls, Hoog Catherijne. Utrecht also serves as the embodiment of European café culture, with a vast selection of quirky bars and terraces.

Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ chief port town and second-largest city, serving as the country’s main departure and arrival destination for international cruises and cargo ships. Having been heavily bombed during the Second World War, the city is now famous for its wealth of modern architecture, from its cube-shaped houses to its spaceship-like market hall. Particularly popular with younger groups is the city’s thriving nightlife scene, complete with many quirky nightclubs and bars.

Home to both the Netherlands’ monarchy, the parliament and many major Dutch companies such as Royal Dutch Shell, The Hague is truly the seat of Dutch business and politics. The city is home to a wealth of royal architecture and palaces, alongside art galleries showcasing the works of Vermeer, Rembdrandt and Andy Warhol.

Robert Heaney
Go City Travel Expert

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Red Light District Amsterdam
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Guide to Amsterdam's Red Light District

One of the most talked about parts of the city, the Red Light District in Amsterdam is a must see. Iconic or infamous - whatever the stereotypes, there's a lot more to this historic neighbourhood than its reputation suggests. Learn more with our guide to the Red Light District, Amsterdam and discover the history of the De Wallen district.  What is the Red Light district? Situated in De Wallen, Amsterdam’s medieval city centre, the Red Light District is a lively part of town that unlike most European city centres offers a whole list of usually taboo services. Everything from prostitution to legalized drugs, as well as sex shows and shops. Having a close proximity to the city’s harbour, the area has long been a destination for those looking for services of a sexual nature whether it be sailors, soldiers or gentlemen since the middle ages. However, gone are the days when it was something to be ashamed of and now sex work is recognised as a legitimate form of employment. You may question where the name has its origins. The name “Red Light District” comes from the use of neon red lights featured in the doorways of parlours. Street prostitution is illegal in the Netherlands so for many, the use of a red neon light in a doorway is a smart trick to attract customers. What’s on offer in the Red Light District? The Amsterdam Pass will give you an in-depth tour into the city’s most controversial neighbourhood with a plethora of intriguing tales and noteworthy facts of the area. Starting at 7pm, these tours start as the sun sets and the area becomes alive. Apart from the obvious offerings that spring to mind, the Red Light District also has a host of interesting shops, museums and shows. The majority of these may revolve around vice but there are also opportunities to enjoy fashion and culture. With a number of former prostitute’s windows being transformed in the area, visitors can see a flurry of exhibition spaces and studios housing fashionable clothing stores, with cool shoe and streetwear brands lining the streets. Did you know? Regulation of sex workers health was not a recent government policy. Ever since 1810, when Napoleon controlled Amsterdam, prostitution was subject to health regulation with sex workers needing to pertain a permit to acknowledge they were healthy. Unfortunately this wasn’t to protect the workers from venereal diseases but rather soldiers, who were more likely to be the source. There is estimated to be around 25,000 sex workers working in the Netherlands with the majority residing in the Red Light District. Despite De Wallen being most famous for its Red Light District, it is also home to the city’s Chinatown if you’re looking for some tasty food from the Far East. Dotted throughout the neighbourhood are small sculptures and works of art relating to the area’s sordid found fame. How to act in the Red Light District For years the Red Light District was a rough place to visit but after the legalisation of prostitution in 2000, the efforts of authorities have ensured that it has become a safe and vibrant place for tourists to visit. However, there are some unwritten rules to follow. The women (and some men) working here are doing exactly that, work, so it is best not to film them directly or take pictures. In fact, earlier this year it was made illegal to stand and stare at sex workers when in a tour group. Drinking and taking drugs on the streets in the area are also frowned upon and should be restricted to the numerous bars and coffee shops in the area. You are also reminded to not yell or cause disturbances while there. Due to the areas affinity with all things vice, you are advised to refuse all offers from traders regarding drugs and bicycles. The police impose hefty fines on both the seller and buyer when caught. How to get to the Red Light District Amsterdam? As a popular destination you can take any one of these trams to arrive there: 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 24 Dam. Being at the very centre of the old town, it’s hard to get lost but be sure to carry a map wherever you go. De Wallen, also known as Rosse Burt is popular part of the city for many who will happily point you in the right direction.
Katie Waller
kings day
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Getting Around Amsterdam and Info on Kings Day

Visiting Amsterdam and looking for more info about this "Kings Day" you keep reading about? You've come to the right place. Here, we'll give you all info about Kings Day you'll ever need, as well as a quick guide to getting around Amsterdam on this most celebrated of days. Read on, learn things, and be merry. Getting Around Amsterdam So, let's look at the most common ways people get around Amsterdam. Cars are out of the question, because many of the streets become car-free party zones. Bikes Bicycles are a huge part of Dutch culture, with much of the country's travel infrastructure designed around our two-wheeled friends. This is precisely true for Amsterdam, too, with countless cycle lanes and cycle-friendly zones prevalent across the city. While bringing or buying one might be out of the question for a short stay, why not rent a bike? That way, you get all the benefits without any of the hassle! Just make sure you lock it up securely, as Amsterdam has prevalent bike theft problems. Plus, if you haven't ridden in a while, maybe take it for a practice spin before braving the cycle lanes. Riders won't appreciate the proverbial training wheels - they've got places to be! Trams Many overground tram and bus routes are also closed off during the celebrations. A few routes tend to be available from Centraal Station, but do check before you plan your trip. If you do luck out and find a route that suits you, you can buy a one-hour, 24-hour, or 48-hour ticket on any tram, and they work on buses and the subway too. Or pick up an OV Chipcard. These travel cards can be picked up from Centraal Station, let you swipe in and out of stations, trams, and buses, and can be topped up at machines at many pickup spots or stations. Buses Similar to trams, Amsterdam's great bus coverage is heavily diminished on Kings Day. So plan your route and see what's available before you head out. You can't buy tickets on the bus itself, but many stops have ticket machines near them. You can also use your 1, 24, or 48-hour ticket one them, as well as your OV Chipcard. Air-conditioned with plenty of space and tinted windows to block the sun, they're a great way to get around the city. Metro Given Amsterdam's size, the subway doesn't operate in a similar vein to larger cities. There are only a handful of stations in the city center, so unless you want to travel further or somewhere specific like the trendy De Pijp district, you may not need them. You can use a 1, 24, or 48-hour ticket one them, as well as your OV Chipcard top tap in and out of the station gates. Boats Yep, you can even use boats to get about the city. Amsterdam's many waterways emanate from Centraal Station, and you can hire a boat to take you around the scenic canals. And, if you want to visit the urban-industrial paradise in Amsterdam Noord, you can hop on a free ferry at the back of Centraal Station to cross the river. Legs Walking is definitely one of the best ways to get around Amsterdam on Kings Day. Most people will be walking or cycling, so why not join them on their two-footed adventure? So, now you're all caught up with traveling in Amsterdam! So, let's provide you with some info on Kings Day. What is Kings Day? Kings Day is a public holiday celebrating a very special birthday. Who's, you ask? Why, the King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander, of course! Yes, the Dutch have a national holiday to celebrate a king's birthday. And yes, it's awesome. When is Kings Day? King Willem-Alexander was born on April 27th, so that's when Kings Day is every year. And yes, that means it can end up right in the middle of the week. And yes, when the monarch is a woman, the name changes to Queens Day, and will fall on her birthday. What happens on Kings Day? As a public holiday, you can expect a lot of activity on Kings Day. It's customary to wear orange when you leave the house, and this could be a hat, a t-shirt, or even a bandana. But why not go one step further and buy an all-orange outfit to really show your appreciation? Then, you're wearing the appropriate attire, go and find where the fun's at. Kings Day markets Markets are big in the Netherlands, so it's no surprise that they make an appearance on Kings Day too. In fact, people take it upon themselves to put up their own markets outside their front doors! It's called the 'Free Market', and it tends to be rather lighthearted. Don't expect to find any gems, because you're more likely to find jokey offerings. On top of that, you'll find a huge market across three streets in South Amsterdam around Beethovenstraat, Stadionweg, and Apollolaan. This is a more traditional market, where you can buy things you might actually need! Kings Day parades, parties, and other festivities While the whole city is akin to one big party, you will find other fun things in the city on Kings Day. The night before the big day is called Kings Night, when the heaviest partying takes place - followed by a chilled, recovery-filled Kings Day. You'll also find a massive Kings Day Boat Parade that makes its way along the Prinsengracht canals in the afternoon. Alongside the accompanying boats, you'll find groups gathered on the bridges above celebrating alongside them. You'll even find live music all over the place. Museumplein is well known for impromptu concerts and the like on days like this. So now you know everything you need about getting around Amsterdam on Kings Day and info on the day too! If you're spending a few days in the city either side of Kings Day and you want to see everything the city has to offer, why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Amsterdam's best bits when and how you want.
Dom Bewley
bars amsterdam
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Best Bars in Amsterdam

Visiting Amsterdam and wondering about the bar scene? Wonder no longer, because we've put together a list of the best bars in town just for you. Read on, and discover your new favorite! Including: Door 74 Flying Dutchman Oedipus Taproom Gollum TonTon Club and more! Let's kick things off with cocktail bars. Here are our picks for the city's best! Door 74 Step inside the doors of this swanky speakeasy south of the city center, and you'll time-travel back to the Art Deco stylings of the roaring 20s. Sit down, and explore their amazing menu of cocktail classics and original mixes. Unfortunately, you'll have to take our word for it, as their website is bereft of a menu or any indication of what they offer. However, you can browse their socials and see what people have tagged. Plus, you can book a table through them with no problem. And, given the popularity of the joint, you might want to book ahead. Ideal for a couple of drinks or an entire evening, it's easily one of the best cocktail bars in Amsterdam! Flying Dutchman This swanky yet snug cocktail bar has more modern sensibilities in mind. Up the stairs at Singel 460, you'll find a small lounge facing a humungous bar. If you feel like counting, you'll clock over 800 unique bottles of booze. That's...a lot of drinking. When you're seated, you'll be able to pick from one of their awesome creations and sip on paradise. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, give the staff some information on the kinds of drinks you like, and they'll cook you up something holistic! Looking for something fruity? Give them a few flavors, and they'll whip you up a fruity treat. Prefer sweeter, desert-adjacent tipples? Let them know and see what they come up with. Bar TwentySeven This might be one of the pricier on the list, but hot damn, is it worth a visit if you're hankering for some sweet cocktails. The innards are almost palatial, in a kind of fantasy movie way. The bartenders will be happy to surprise you with holistic cocktails that were made for you. Grab a velvet chair, or luck out and lounge on the chez long. You'll feel truly pampered; no two ways about it. Words can't really do this place justice. As one of the best cocktail bars in Amsterdam, you'll just have to experience it for yourself. Now, let's explore the pub scene for you beer drinkers out there. Here are our picks for the best beer bars in Amsterdam. Oedipus Taproom Across the river to Amsterdam Noord, you'll find this bright, charming taproom/beer garden. Oedipus is one of the most prominent craft beer brands in Amsterdam, and you'll find their masterworks on many store shelves. But why not go to the source, and have a damn good time doing it? They have a rotating selection of their beers on tap, from tropical sours to Dutch favorites like witbier and blonde beers. If the day is sunny, and you fancy a free ferry ride from Centraal Station (something everyone should try at least once), then head to this summer delight and soak up the vibes. And if you're hungry after throwing back a few, they've got a burger pop-up on-site to satisfy your beer cravings. Gollum With multiple locations around the city, Gollum is one of Amsterdam's best. While their menus can change depending on where you go, you're likely to find a menu with tens of beers spread over multiple pages. Whichever beer suits your fancy, you're sure to find it within their revered tomes. Some locations, like the one in Entrepotdok, have board games should you fancy something to do. Oh, and their resident cat will be more than happy to sit sleeping next to you if you choose the right seat! Upstairs, they even play sports games, should you be in town during the Dutch soccer season, or during the summer months when international tournaments take place. Just don't expect the Superbowl; you're in The Netherlands, after all. O'Reilly's Irish Pub There are better pubs in the city, but sometimes, you just want a little slice of home. That's what you get at O'Reilly's, with all the familiar fittings of an Irish pub. Guinness on tap, western pub food on the menu, and jolly jigs on the jukebox. Plus, it's one of the city's most prominent sports bars, with plenty of soccer and other matches being blared from the big screen across the venue. And now, we'll end the list on quirky bars, if you're looking for something a little different. TonTon Club What do you get when you combine the lights and sounds of an 80s arcade with the smooth stylings of a modern bar, all wrapped up with an Asian menu? Well, you get the TonTon Club. Head to the magnificent Westerpark and see what all the fuss is about. With a handful of arcade cabinets, including Time Crisis and Mario Kart, as well as air hockey and foosball tables, you'll have a blast as you knock back drinks. Their menu of Asian finger food is also delicious, and includes burgers and larger plates should your stomach require. And with a generous amount of outside tables, it's the perfect summer haunt! Westerunie Bar and VR game site by day, club by night. Westerunie has it all. Once again located in Westerpark, you'll need to book ahead if you want to use the VR facilities. But my god, you'll want to. Taking place in the large hall where the club kicks off, you and 5 friends can suit up, literally, with a full-body tracking suit. Then, slip on the headset, and run around untethered as you explore haunted houses, facilities, and other monster-infested locations and shoot 'em up. Thanks to the suits, you'll see your pals running around in real-time and hear them scream as they're beset by shambling monstrosities. Then, when your session's over, check the scoreboard and gloat over a few drinks from the delightful bar. And, should you want the night to continue, you may well be there when the lights go out and the music kicks off. Easily one of the best bars in Amsterdam. And that was our list of the best bars in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley

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