World-Class Museums
🎨 Van Gogh Museum
Price: €22 | Duration: 2-3 hours
The world's largest Van Gogh collection. Sunflowers, Bedroom in Arles, self-portraits. The audio guide is excellent and free with the app.
Tip: Book early morning (9am) or late afternoon (4pm) for smaller crowds. Timed entry is mandatory.
🏛️ Rijksmuseum
Price: €22.50 | Duration: 3-4 hours
The Netherlands' national museum. Rembrandt's Night Watch, Vermeer's Milkmaid, 8,000+ artworks spanning 800 years.
Tip: The gardens are free and beautiful. Night Watch is always crowded — visit at opening or closing.
📖 Anne Frank House
Price: €16 | Duration: 1.5-2 hours
The actual hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary. Deeply moving experience. No photography allowed inside.
Tip: Tickets release at 10am CET, 6 weeks before visit date. Set a reminder — they sell out in minutes.
🔬 NEMO Science Museum
Price: €18.50 | Duration: 2-3 hours
Interactive science museum. Perfect for families and curious adults. The rooftop terrace has amazing city views (free access).
🎬 EYE Film Museum
Price: €12 (exhibitions) | Duration: 1-2 hours
Stunning building across the IJ. Film exhibitions, arthouse cinema, great cafe with terrace views. Free ferry from Central Station.
Unique Experiences
🚢 Canal Cruise
€15-25 | 1 hour
Best way to see the city. Evening cruises are magical. Avoid tourist traps near Central Station — book online.
🍺 Heineken Experience
€23 | 1.5 hours
Interactive brewery tour. 2 beers included. Fun but touristy. Book the VIP for smaller groups.
👀 A'DAM Lookout
€14.50 | 30-60 min
Best panoramic views of Amsterdam. "Over the Edge" swing for thrill-seekers (€7 extra). In Noord.
🏠 Our Lord in the Attic
€15 | 1 hour
Hidden Catholic church in a canal house attic. One of Amsterdam's best-kept secrets.
Free Activities
- Vondelpark: Amsterdam's Central Park. Picnic, people-watch, live music in summer
- Jordaan Walk: Charming canals, boutiques, cafes. The real Amsterdam
- Albert Cuyp Market: Largest street market. Food, clothes, everything
- Begijnhof: Hidden medieval courtyard. Oasis of calm in the center
- NDSM Wharf: Street art, creative spaces. Take the free ferry
- Bloemenmarkt: Floating flower market (touristy but iconic)
Museum Passes
I amsterdam City Card
€65 (24h) / €85 (48h) / €100 (72h)
Includes: 70+ museums, canal cruise, public transport. Worth it if you visit 3+ major museums.
Doesn't include: Anne Frank House, Heineken Experience.
Museumkaart
€64.90/year
Access to 400+ Dutch museums. Only worth it if staying long or returning often. Takes 2 weeks to arrive by mail.