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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3 Days in Amsterdam

Known worldwide for its unique mix of extensive history, intriguing culture and renowned social hubs, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. Many of the city’s top attractions are nestled together within a compact city center, making the Dutch capital ideal for weekend getaways and whirlwind trips. While you’re sure to find more than enough to last you a number of weeks, three days in Amsterdam is plenty of time to explore some of the best attractions that the city has to offer. In place of a strict, linear itinerary, we’ve put together a selection of our top recommendations for things to do within a three-day trip, along with recommended visit durations to help you plan your own itinerary. Must-Do Museums Rijksmuseum Recommended Visit: 2 - 4 hours Perhaps the most well-known hub of history and culture in Amsterdam and easily one of the most important museums in the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum dominates the Museumplein with its striking Gothic- and Renaissance-style architecture. Officially opened to the public in 1885, the site is now home to a vast collection of historical artifacts chronicling over 800 years of Dutch history, along with an impressive collection of artworks by some of the Netherlands’ own master painters. Among its most popular pieces are works by Vermeer and Van Gogh, with Rembrandt’s famous The Night Watch taking pride of place. Amsterdam Museum Recommended Visit: 1 hour 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 archaeological 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 Recommended Visit: 1.5 - 3 hours Among Amsterdam’s extensive selection of globally significant art galleries, the Van Gogh Museum remains the king. Understandably a great source of cultural and artistic pride for the Netherlands, the site houses the world’s most complete collection of works by history’s most famous painter. Attracting art aficionados and curious visitors alike from the world over, the museum is home to over 200 of the Dutch artist’s paintings, alongside more than 500 drawings and 700 letters. The site also hosts a rolling series of temporary exhibitions related to the works of Van Gogh, his contemporaries and his impact on the art world as a whole. Anne Frank House Recommended Visit: 1 hour Perhaps the most visited historical site in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. Left virtually untouched structurally for the best part of a century, this unassuming canal house now serves as a museum and potent reminder of the difficulties and religious persecution experienced by jews and other minority groups during the Second World War. Originally the premises of the Frank family business, the building would later come to house the hiding place in which the family of the famous wartime diarist evaded German capture for almost two years. While the house is now empty of most original furniture, the original annex in which they hid still stands, continuing to breathe the tense atmosphere of the period. Engaging Activities Heineken Experience Recommended Visit: 90 minutes Historic home to one of the world’s most lauded beer brands, Amsterdam’s Heineken Experience takes visitors on a unique behind-the-scenes journey through the creation and history of the globally popular pilsner. The tour guides visitors through every aspect of production, from inception to brewing to marketing, before rounding off with a much-anticipated tasting session. Nightlife Recommended Visit: – Among many other things, Amsterdam is renowned for offering one of the best nightlife scenes in all of Europe. 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. Nes typically attracts more of an intellectual theater crowd, and the clubs on Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein serve as a fantastic end to the night. Retail Therapy Recommended Visit: – If you’re looking to grab some European bargains or to pick up a souvenir or two from your trip, Amsterdam has you sorted. The Negen Straatjes (‘Nine Streets’) is a collection of narrow, historical streets at the heart of the canal district, replete with charming cafés and restaurants alongside a wide selection of both unique, independent stores and chain boutiques. For the best retail experience that Amsterdam has to offer, you’ll want to take yourself to Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat, as well as the Kalverpassage shopping mall that connects the two. The Magna Plaza is your best bet for more of an independent mall experience, while De Bijenkorf is your best source for all things designer and luxury. Outdoor Escapes Canal Cruise Recommended Visit: Varies per provider Most likely the first thing most people associate with Amsterdam is its iconic waterways. Originally serving as means of water management, defense and facilitating trade, the capital’s labyrinthine canals accounts for 25% of the city’s surface area. With tourism now accounting for a huge portion of Amsterdam’s economy, the canals have evolved to serve largely as a unique means for visitors to explore the city from a new perspective. There’s a whole host of canal tour operators providing excursions through the city center, often accompanied by valuable local insights into the cultural and historical significance of many of Amsterdam’s top attractions. ARTIS Royal Zoo Recommended Visit: 2 hours 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. Parks Recommended Visit: – For a brief escape from the bustling city streets, 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. Getting Around Public Transport While most of the city center is easily accessible on foot, with most top attractions rarely more than a short walk from one another, Amsterdam’s extensive public transport system can be a huge boon for getting your two-day itinerary rolling smoothly. Between the capital’s three primary bus operators, 14 tram lines and 39 citywide metro stops, you should have no trouble at all hopping from the likes of the Rijksmuseum straight to Westerpark at your leisure. If you’re trying to cover a lot of Amsterdam in a limited amount of time, public transport can often cut your journey time by at least half when compared to simply walking. All of the services within the Amsterdam public transport system are integrated with each other, meaning any multiple-use pass you purchase will be valid on any mode of transport. You can buy single- or multi-use tickets at most transport hubs, alongside passes valid from anywhere between 24 and 96 hours should you plan to use public transport fairly regularly. Cycling If you’re looking for the full Amsterdam experience, then there’s nothing more truly Dutch than exploring the city on your own set of wheels. With over 470 miles of cycle lanes making up the Amsterdam Bicycle Network, cycling is easily one of the most convenient means of getting around. Most rental shops dotted throughout the city offer rates of around €10/day. On the Water While we’ve already covered the value of Amsterdam’s canals for providing a new perspective on the city, they also serve as a great way to get around the city center. A ticket for a hop-on, hop-off boat tour can last you the whole day or even your whole trip and offers much the same experience as other tours, while also operating regular stops to help you get from A to B. That being said, given the limited range of the canals, it should be noted that this is not a viable means of traversing the whole city.
Robert Heaney
romancing the netherlands
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Romantic Things to do in Amsterdam

Romance. Is it dead? Not on our watch. Prove to your loved one just how romantic you are and find the perfect thing to do in Amsterdam. But romance is hard, just like researching romantic plans. But don't worry! We've done all the hard work for you! So sit back, lothario, and focus on the gift-buying, as we explore the best romantic things to do in Amsterdam. Including: Picnic in the park(s) Sensational strolls Couples bike ride Romantic boat trips Loved up meals and more! Park perks What's more romantic than picking up your partner, carrying them to a park, placing them on a blanket, and forcing them to enjoy a lovely picnic? Nothing. Nothing at all. So, do your relationship a favor and do the thing. Amsterdam has some wonderful green spaces all over the city. No matter where you're staying, you're probably only a short walk or cycle from one. Any of them make for an ideal picnic location, but we have some favorites too. Westerpark is the perfect mix of rolling grass and trees, bars, restaurants, and entertainment. You'll find plenty of space to spread out and set up a romantic picnic for two, and if you run out of any nibbles or drinks, you can always move proceedings to one of the nearby restaurants or watering holes. For a similar vibe, check out Vondelpark. Alongside all the picnic-ready grass, there are a handful of restaurants and stalls selling drinks and bites, and even some live music on occasion. Or, combine a picnic with some horticultural exploration at Hortus Botanicus, where you can combine a romantic picnic with an equally romantic stroll around the park's tropical greenhouses. It might sound like a euphemism from a Monty Python sketch, but Hortus Botanicus is so much more. Walk and talk There's denying the beauty of Amsterdam. It's one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, with its abundance of clean air (thanks to all the cyclists), a wealth of waterways, and a blend of old and new architecture. And since the city is relatively small, it's the perfect excuse to take your partner's hand and drag them around the city on foot! So get your walking boots on! Pick a destination and go wander. While some parts of the city are arguably prettier than others, we'd recommend you take a stroll around Jordaan. Positioned just outside of the tourist belt, you'll find tons of beauty, as well as cafes, bistros, and bars with seating by the water. That way, you can end your stroll with a successful sitdown! Ride into the sunset As if you needed reminding, but Amsterdam is a cyclist's metropolis. Literally. You'll find cycle lanes everywhere, from cobbled residential streets to freeways. We've already talked about the difference they make to the city - cleaner air, less traffic, and fewer cars are just some of the many benefits. Now, turn those benefits into brownie points with your beloved. Rent a couple of bikes, take them on a bike ride around the city and show them how great the city looks on two wheels! You'll be able to go anywhere both in the city and into the outskirts. Why not cycle to the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens and see the fields of the beautiful wonders? While they're located around 25 miles from the city, since the freeways have safe, dedicated cycle lanes, you can make a day of it! It's easily one of the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam, if you've got the stamina for it! Pedal to the romance Or, swap two wheels for no wheels and hop on a pedal boat! They're a great way to see the city's sights. Follow the canals, pass under bridges, and stop off wherever you like. And really, is there anything more romantic than pedaling together, knowing that at any time, one of you could steer the boat to certain doom? Of course, not everyone has the foresight to bring a pedal boat with them on vacation. But don't worry! Amsterdam's got you covered. Simply hire a pedal boat, get on the water, and make a day of it. A romantic day of it. Love bites Of course, nothing could be more romantic than having an intimate meal for two. You stare into their eyes; they stare into yours. You're so engrossed in their gaze that your fork misses your mouth, a moist meatball tumbling down that brand new white number you've got on. You laugh, they laugh, and the waiting staff forces a laugh as they clean up the mess. You walk home with your red stain proudly displayed. You don't care; you're in love. Make this dream a reality at one of Amsterdam's romantic restaurants! De Belhamel in Jordaan offers French and Italian-inspired dishes in an intimate art-deco interior, or take the party to the beautiful canal-side decking. Or, dine beneath the stars at Cafe Restaurant De Plantage. But wait, those aren't stars; they're fairy light-bedazzled sycamore trees! Surely one of the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam? Besides the mesmerizing decor, you'll love their nouveau cuisine offerings, with a number of meat, fish, and veggie meals inspired by worldwide cuisine. Get cultural Sometimes, knowledge can be the sexiest thing of all. We didn't just make that up, so why not put it to the test? Amsterdam has some great museums to wander through with your partner. Just make sure they're into it before dragging them along. There's the Rijksmuseum, the Dutch home of classical art. See the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other national luminaries strut their stuff. Not literally, of course; they are all long dead. Or, for a cooler, more hip experience, check out the Moco Museum and their street art extravaganza featuring works from Banksy and other celebrated modern artists. Alternatively, head to the home of the late, great Van Gogh, who's lucky enough to have an entire museum dedicated to his work. It was rumored he cut his ear off due to unrequited love, though this was later proven false. Perhaps you should ask your love if they would cut their ear off for you? If they refuse, dump them on the spot; they don't deserve you. And those are our picks for the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley
adventure amsterdam
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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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