Things to do in Amsterdam for Adults

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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Tram passing in front of the Rijksmuseum
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Getting Around Amsterdam

Often dubbed one of the greatest of the world’s small cities, Amsterdam is not a particularly monstrous city. Indeed, with a footprint of just a little over three square miles, the city center could quite easily be covered in a day on foot alone. And yet, the city is often recognized for having some of the best transport infrastructure in Europe. From the emblematic canals delightfully splitting up the Dutch capital’s neighborhoods to its famous tram system covering just about all of the city, there’s a capable range of options for getting around Amsterdam to help you explore the city on your own terms. Public Transport Bus Amsterdam boasts an extensive network of buses servicing both the city center and the surrounding neighborhoods. Operated by three companies – GVB, Connexxion and EBS – Amsterdam’s buses offer a reliable means of getting across the city fast, with many routes servicing stops close to key social hubs and attractions. The city also operates twelve night bus routes to help you get around while exploring the city’s famous nightlife scene. Each of these routes helps to connect the city center with the surrounding suburbs, and buses typically depart every 30 minutes between midnight and 7AM. Tram Second only to bicycles, trams are perhaps the most recognizable mode of transport in Amsterdam. Connecting Amsterdam Central Station to the city’s many key areas and further neighborhoods, Lines 1, 2, 5, 9, 13 and 17 are typically your best bet for getting around the city. Depending on the day and time, the frequency of trams will vary, typically arriving every 5 – 10 minutes. Metro The Amsterdam Metro system offers an alternative means of traversing the central spine of the city and accessing the outer suburbs. Operating across five lines and servicing a total of 39 stops, the Metro offers the fastest and most efficient means of crossing through the city, passing through all major business and office districts alongside many train stations. Operating Times The three modes of public transport that make up the transport infrastructure of Amsterdam all operate on roughly the same schedule and ticketing service. The majority of services begin operations at 6AM and will typically continue until 12:30AM the following morning. Tickets & Passes Tickets and passes are wholly dependent on how long you intend to stay in Amsterdam and how often you plan to use public transport. For casual use, single and return tickets are available on all services on demand. You can also purchase passes which allow for unlimited travel for periods of 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours, offering slightly discounted rates as long as you get plenty of use from them. If you plan on staying in the Netherlands for more than three days, then your best bet would be to purchase and top-up an OV-chipkaart from any major transport hub. This pass is heavily used by locals and can simply be scanned whenever you hop on your transport of choice. On the Water Amsterdam’s canals are more than just an iconic photo op. Originally serving as means of water management, defense and facilitating trade, the labyrinth of canals accounts for 25% of the city’s surface area. Most of the traffic on the canals now consists of pleasure sailing, both private and commercial. If you’re looking for a unique means of getting around the city, there’s a plethora of boat tours available at your convenience to get you from A to B with a little local insight thrown into the mix. Alternatively, it’s also fairly simple to rent a boat for yourself, whether it be a manual pedal-boat, a small capacity electric boat or a full-sized barge for you and your friends. Cycling You may have heard it said that Amsterdam is home to more bicycles than people, and that’s no simple exaggeration. With roughly 1.1 bikes to each resident, it’s plain to see that the locals readily uphold the age-old image of the Dutch cycling nation. With over half of Amsterdam’s 800,000 residents relying on their bicycles as their daily mode of transport, it should come as no surprise that the city caters heavily to their preferences. In fact, with over 470 miles of cycle lanes making up the Amsterdam Bicycle Network, cycling can often be the easiest means of getting around. To capitalize on this trend, there is now a huge selection of bike rental stores dotted throughout the city. You should expect to pay somewhere in the range of €10/day for rentals. If you intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than a month, then purchasing a second-hand bike is a much more cost-effective option, with many going for between €50 and €200. Avoid buying bicycles on the street from unverified vendors, as these are likely to have been stolen and can land you in a lot of trouble. Cycling Safety Be sure to exercise some basic cycling safety and etiquette if you choose to ride in Amsterdam. Stick to roads and dedicated cycle lanes. Keep to the right-hand side and leave space for other cyclists. Make sure you have working front and rear lights when riding at night. Observe other cyclists’ body language to anticipate their actions and signal your own. If you intend to use your phone for directions, make sure to use a legal handlebar mount. Cyclists should overtake each other on the left, but can overtake other vehicles on the right. Only ring your bell when necessary. Always stow your bike in dedicated spaces and ensure you use a reliable lock. Taxi While road traffic is fairly minimal in Amsterdam, that can be quite the boon for those who need to get themselves across the city fast. Whether you’re looking for airport transfers or need to make it to an event quickly, taxis can be your best friend. Most taxis are regulated by the municipality to charge pre-set rates, so you should never have to face a surprise fee for your journey. Like in most cities, you'll find taxi ranks at the airport and most major transport hubs. Taxis can also be ordered at your convenience by calling up your chosen taxi firm, or you can make a booking via the TCA app. Alternatively, the likes of Uber and Bolt also operate in Amsterdam.
Robert Heaney
Amsterdam's Munttoren behind a canal
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Amsterdam in July

At the height of summer, Amsterdam in July positively oozes life and culture. Some of the largest crowds flock to the capital over the summer period to bask in the Dutch sun and explore the city’s cultural hubs, hedonistic pleasures and world-famous nightlife scene. So long as you’re prepared to put up with larger queues and busier streets, a trip in summer is sure to be a thrilling one. Visiting Amsterdam in July Average Temperature: 54 - 70°F • Average Rainfall: 12 days/mth • Average Sunshine: 6 hours/day It likely comes as little surprise that visiting Amsterdam in July – and just about anywhere else in Europe around this time – will land you amid one of the city’s most bustling periods. The Dutch capital positively brims with life throughout summer, as the waves of families and vacationers flock to see just what the country’s cultural center has to offer. Naturally, this comes at the cost of sharing the city with many more tourists than during the low season. Lines for attractions are likely to be longer, and accommodation rates will be at their highest. However, that also allows the nightlife scene to really come into its own, and the city as a whole will have a much more electric atmosphere. Your trip to Amsterdam in July will likely be complemented by overall mild to warm temperatures. While you aren’t guaranteed the same summertime heatwaves of more southern European destinations, July’s climate is prime weather for exploring the iconic streets and squares of the Dutch capital. That being said, it also wouldn’t be a terrible idea to pack an umbrella just in case. Things to Do in July No matter the time of year, any trip to Amsterdam would be incomplete without discovering at least some of its famous cultural hubs. Taking precedence is the emblematic Rijksmuseum towering over the Museumplein, housing a vast collection of renowned artworks and historical artifacts. Where historical insight is concerned, the Anne Frank House stands as the most potent recounting of life in the Netherlands during the Second World War. As a city with more bicycles than people, there are few better ways to explore Amsterdam than on your very own pair of wheels. Over 470 miles of cycle paths make up the Amsterdam Bicycle Network, making for a fantastic excuse to take a more physically active approach to exploring the capital. Many bike rental stores offer daily rates somewhere in the region of €10. There’s no better time than summer to make the most of Amsterdam’s many sprawling green spaces. The weather in July offers a perfect opportunity to take a stroll among Vondelpark’s ancient trees and stunning lakes, and grab a seat at one of its many charming park cafés. Equally, why not have a picnic in Westerpark, make the most of its live summertime events and shows, or even catch a viewing at its very own arthouse cinema? Second only to cycling, Amsterdam’s emblematic waterways offer a uniquely alternative means of seeing the city. You can choose from a large variety of tour operators offering their own canal boat excursions, often including tours of the capital’s key landmarks accompanied by local insights into their cultural and historical significance. Amsterdam’s nightlife scene is never better than in summer, when you can expect most bars and clubs to be brimming with life. Popular venues can be found throughout the city, but as a general rule of thumb, the old area of Jordaan is typically very popular with young people for its trendy bars. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are particularly popular for their club offerings, while the street of Nes often attracts more of an intellectual theater crowd. Events in July Over Het IJ Festival Held on the waterfront of the River IJ in Amsterdam, the 10-day Over Het IJ Festival stands as a combined celebration of theater, art and culture. With the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic wharves, piers and shipping containers, the festival offers a variety of theatrical performances, visual arts and interactive installations for visitors to enjoy. The waterfront location allows for visitors to enjoy the festival’s jam-packed program of location-specific shows and activities while enjoying the best of the Dutch summertime weather. The event is publicly accessible for visitors to explore at their leisure, with a variety of delicious food stands and chill spaces scattered around the venue. Amsterdam Pride As the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, nobody knows how to celebrate Pride more than the Netherlands. Now a multi-day festival, Amsterdam’s Pride Festival typically attracts around half a million visitors each year in late July in celebration of equality, diversity and personal identity. Should you happen to visit around this time, you’ll find local bars and clubs veritably thriving with festivity. Various street parties and events bring together thousands of revelers dressed in the full color spectrum to enjoy live music performances and Amsterdam’s famous Canal Parade, during which over 80 official vessels celebrate the past, present and future of the LGBT community. Milkshake Festival Organized as a collaboration between two of Amsterdam’s most prominent clubs, Air and Paradiso, the Milkshake Festival is a multi-genre music event built around central themes of inclusion and freedom of expression. The event promotes diversity in every sense of the word, as thousands of music fans flock to enjoy the festival’s many different stages and performances in a safe, open environment. North Sea Jazz Festival The North Sea Jazz Festival is the world’s largest indoor music festival. Hosted in Rotterdam, just over an hour away from Amsterdam by train, the event takes place over three days and features performances from various music genres. Although primarily considered the world’s most important jazz festival, the festival also offers blues, funk, hip hop and world music performances from local and international names both big and small. As many as 70,000 visitors flock to Rotterdam each year to enjoy live music from over 1,000 musicians performing across 15 stages.
Robert Heaney

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