If you are looking for an Amsterdam strip club, this guide helps you compare the best-known adult venues quickly. Not every adult venue in Amsterdam offers the same kind of experience. Some places focus on stage entertainment and private dances, while others are better known as live show venues or broader adult nightlife locations.

That is why this page compares the best strip clubs in Amsterdam in a more practical way. We look at location, venue type, atmosphere, crowd, and what kind of night each place suits best. This makes it easier to choose the right venue before you go.

Last updated: June 2026.

Quick guide before you choose

• Best for a more polished venue: Club BonTon
• Best for a famous Red Light District experience: Casa Rosso or Moulin Rouge
• Best for groups: central venues in De Wallen
• Best for women: male strip show venues
• Best for tourists: venues within walking distance of Central Station

What Counts as a Strip Club in Amsterdam?

A strip club is usually a venue where dancers perform for paying guests. In most strip clubs, the focus is on stage entertainment, table service, and private dances. That is different from a sex show, where the focus is more on a live theatre-style adult performance, and different again from a broader adult club or sex club.

This matters because many visitors search for an Amsterdam stripclub when they actually mean adult nightlife more broadly. In Amsterdam, those categories can overlap, especially in the Red Light District. Still, the actual experience can be very different depending on the venue you choose.

Simple definitions

• Strip club: dancers, stage entertainment, private dances
• Sex show: theatre-style adult performance venue
• Adult club: broader nightlife venue with a more mixed format
• Peep show: short private booth-based viewing experience

For most travellers, the best choice depends on the kind of night they want. Some venues work better for couples, others for groups, and some are simply easier to combine with a broader evening in the city centre.

Best Strip Clubs In Amsterdam

Below you will find our list of the 10 best strip clubs in Amsterdam. We use the term “strip club” in the way most visitors search for it, but we also make clear when a venue is actually closer to a sex show, peep show, or broader adult venue. That makes this guide more useful if you are comparing different nightlife options in Amsterdam.

Editorial note: venue formats, entry prices, opening hours, and policies can change. Always check the latest official information before visiting.

10 | La Vie en Proost

La Vie en Proost is a centrally located Amsterdam strip club in the Red Light District. Its main advantage is the location, since it is within walking distance of Central Station and easy to combine with the rest of a night in De Wallen.

This is more of a convenience stop than a destination venue. Visitors who care most about comfort, atmosphere, or a more polished setting will usually find stronger options elsewhere on this list.

Best for

• Tourists already in the Red Light District
• Visitors looking for a quick central stop
• Travellers who value location over venue style

Why it ranks #10: very central, but not the strongest all-round venue in terms of comfort or overall experience.

9 | Bananenbar

Bananenbar is one of the most famous adult nightlife venues in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the Red Light District, it is best known for its long-standing reputation with tourists and visitors looking for a classic “Only in Amsterdam” nightlife stop.

The atmosphere here is lively, busy, and highly tourist-oriented. This is not the most subtle or upscale venue on the list, but it is one of the most recognisable names in Amsterdam adult nightlife.

Best for

• Tourists who want a famous Amsterdam name
• Groups looking for a lively central venue
• Visitors who want a classic De Wallen nightlife stop

Why it ranks #9: famous and memorable, but less suitable for visitors who want a more polished or relaxed setting.

8 | Hospital Bar

Hospital Bar is a themed adult nightlife venue in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. It feels more like a themed bar-and-entertainment stop than a classic theatre-style venue, which makes it more suitable for casual nightlife visitors than for those looking for a full show format.

The central location works in its favour, especially for groups and visitors already exploring De Wallen. For most people, the appeal lies in the theme and convenience rather than in a high-end venue experience.

Best for

• Bachelor groups
• Visitors already in the Red Light District
• People looking for a casual themed nightlife stop

Why it ranks #8: fun location-based choice, but not one of the strongest all-round picks in the city.

7 | Sex Palace Peep Show

Sex Palace Peep Show is not a classic strip club, but it is relevant for visitors comparing Amsterdam’s adult entertainment formats. It stands out mainly as a low-cost, old-school curiosity stop rather than as a premium nightlife destination.

Because of its niche format and low entry barrier, it can be a fun quick stop for curious visitors, especially those exploring the Red Light District on foot.

Best for

• Budget-conscious visitors
• Travellers curious about old-school adult entertainment
• People wanting a quick stop in De Wallen

Why it ranks #7: highly unusual and memorable, but not a traditional strip club experience.

6 | Club Golden Key

Club Golden Key is closer to a broader adult club than to a classic strip club, but it is still relevant for visitors comparing Amsterdam’s nightlife options. One of its strongest points is that it sits outside the most crowded tourist streets, which can appeal to visitors who do not want the busiest Red Light District atmosphere.

It is less of a first-time tourist venue and more of an option for people who already know the kind of adult nightlife format they are looking for.

Best for

• Visitors looking beyond De Wallen
• People comparing broader adult club formats
• Travellers wanting a less tourist-heavy setting

Why it ranks #6: a more niche option, but useful for visitors who want something outside the classic Red Light District formula.

5 | Club LV

Club LV is better described as an adult club than as a classic strip club, but many visitors searching for strip clubs in Amsterdam are actually comparing a broader set of adult venues. Club LV is mainly relevant for people looking for a more private and less public nightlife format.

Because it sits outside the busiest part of De Wallen, it feels different from the central tourist venues on this list. That can be a plus for visitors who prefer a more secluded setting.

Best for

• Visitors looking for a more private setting
• People comparing broader adult nightlife options
• Travellers who prefer venues outside the main tourist core

Why it ranks #5: not a classic strip club, but still one of the more relevant adult nightlife names in Amsterdam.

4 | Moulin Rouge Amsterdam

Moulin Rouge is not a traditional strip club, but it is one of the most searched and most recognised adult venues in Amsterdam. Because many visitors use “strip club” as a broad search term, Moulin Rouge belongs on this list as one of the strongest all-round nightlife options in the Red Light District.

The venue is especially attractive because of its central location, well-known name, and practical ticket format. It is easy to combine with a night out near Central Station or Dam Square.

If your goal is a famous adults-only venue in De Wallen rather than a strict strip-club format, Moulin Rouge is a strong choice. For opening hours, prices and booking, see our full guide to Moulin Rouge Amsterdam tickets.

Best for

• Couples and small groups
• First-time visitors to De Wallen
• Travellers looking for a famous central adult venue

Why it ranks #4: excellent location and strong brand recognition, although it is better described as a live show venue than a classic strip club.

3 | Casa Rosso Amsterdam

Casa Rosso Amsterdam is one of the most famous adult entertainment venues in the Netherlands. Like Moulin Rouge, it is better described as a theatre-style adult venue than as a pure strip club, but it is highly relevant because many tourists compare all major adult venues under the same search intent.

Casa Rosso is especially strong for visitors who want a recognisable name and a classic theatre-style experience in the middle of the Red Light District.

Compared with smaller venues, Casa Rosso feels more iconic and more historically established. That is a big part of its appeal.

Best for

• Visitors looking for a famous Amsterdam venue
• Tourists who want a theatre-style adult experience
• People comparing the biggest names in De Wallen

Why it ranks #3: huge brand recognition and classic Red Light District relevance.

2 | Male Strip Show Amsterdam

Male Strip Show Amsterdam deserves a high position because it fills a very different need from the mostly male-oriented venues elsewhere on this page. Many users searching for the best strip clubs in Amsterdam are not just looking for venues for men. Some are planning birthdays, bachelorette parties, or a girls’ night out.

This is one of the clearest women-focused adult entertainment options in Amsterdam. The atmosphere is more event-driven and social than in many traditional strip club venues, which makes it especially suitable for groups celebrating a special occasion.

If your priority is a women-friendly, lively, hosted night out, this is one of the strongest options in the city.

Best for

• Women planning a girls’ night out
• Birthdays and bachelorette groups
• Visitors looking for a hosted show format

Why it ranks #2: one of the clearest and best-positioned women-focused adult nightlife options in Amsterdam.

1 | Club BonTon

Club BonTon is the strongest all-round choice if you are specifically looking for a more polished strip club in Amsterdam. Compared with many central De Wallen options, the venue feels more modern, more stylish, and more suitable for couples and mixed groups.

The location outside the busiest Red Light District streets also helps. It feels more refined than some of the most crowded tourist venues, while still being easy to reach from central Amsterdam. For many visitors, that creates a better balance between excitement, comfort, and quality.

If you want the venue on this page that feels most like a modern, high-quality strip club in Amsterdam, Club BonTon is the clearest choice.

Best for

• Visitors looking for a more upscale strip club in Amsterdam
• Couples
• Mixed groups
• People who prefer style over chaos

Why it ranks #1: the clearest blend of venue quality, visitor comfort, modern atmosphere, and broad appeal.

How to Choose the Right Strip Club in Amsterdam

• Choose Club BonTon if you want a more polished strip club atmosphere.
• Choose Casa Rosso or Moulin Rouge if you are really looking for a famous De Wallen adult venue rather than a pure strip club. You can book live sex show tickets online in advance.
• Choose Male Strip Show Amsterdam if you are planning a women-focused group night out.
• Choose Bananenbar if you want a highly recognisable tourist nightlife name.
• Choose a De Wallen venue if central location matters most.

What to Expect at an Amsterdam Strip Club

• Entry: most central venues charge an entry fee or a drink minimum, while the big live shows (Casa Rosso, Moulin Rouge) sell a fixed ticket from around €40 to €60.
• Age: strictly 18+, so bring valid ID.
• Where: most strip clubs and adult venues sit in De Wallen, the Red Light District, a short walk from Amsterdam Centraal.
• When: venues open in the evening and are busiest after 11pm, especially on Friday and Saturday.
• Etiquette: no photos of performers, agree any private-dance price up front, and stick to licensed venues.

Strip clubs, sex clubs and where to find them

Almost all of Amsterdam’s strip clubs are clustered in and around De Wallen (the Red Light District), a short walk from Centraal Station — so if you’re hunting for a “strip club near me” in the centre, you’re already close. A quick note on wording: locals write “stripclub” as one word, and the line between a strip club and a “sex club” in Amsterdam is blurry — some venues mix striptease with live erotic shows, so check what each place actually offers before you go.

One thing worth knowing: strip clubs here are walk-in and don’t sell tickets online. If you want a guaranteed seat at a genuine live show, the famous stage venues are the ones you book ahead.

Book a live show at Moulin Rouge →

Prefer to compare the stage shows first? See our guide to the best live sex shows in Amsterdam.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam Strip Clubs

ALSO READ:

Moulin Rouge Amsterdam Tickets

Casa Rosso Amsterdam Tickets

Top 10 Sex Shows in Amsterdam

5D Porn Cinema Amsterdam

Red Light District Amsterdam Guide

Sex Dating Sites in Amsterdam

The post Amsterdam Stripclub Guide: Best Strip Clubs in Amsterdam appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Sure most Amsterdam canal tours are quite touristy, but these boat tours are really a delightful way to see Holland’s most beautiful city. Several companies depart from at Amsterdam’s Central Station, Damrak, Rokin, at the Heineken Experience and in opposite of the famous Rijksmuseum.

Costs are overall pretty similar (about 16 euro per adult). To avoid the steamed-up glass-window effect, look for a canal boat with an opening seating area. During Amsterdam canal tours at night, there’s the bonus of seeing the beautiful bridges lit up (however these canal tours usually cost a bit more).

1 | Blue Boat Company Amsterdam

The canal tours of Blue Boat Company have a duration of 75-minutes and glides by the top sights in Amsterdam. 90-minute evening canal tours are provided at 8, 9 and 10 pm from March to October and at 8 pm from November to February. Other canal tours are a children’s pirate-themed cruise, a dinner cruise and a tour in a tinier, open-top canal boat. The dock is near the Max Euweplein, just in front of the Heineken Experience and Club BonTon – which offers Amsterdam Brothel Tours too.

Blue Boat Company Prices & Departures

Price: 75-minute canal tour 16 euro for adults and 8.50 euro for children.
Departure: Stadhouderskade 30.
To get there: Take tram 1, 2, 5, 7 or 10 towards Leidseplein.

2 | Those Dam Boat Guys

This is one of the least-touristy canal-tours options. This company offer cozy and personal canal tours (no more than 11 persons) on electric boats. Feel free to bring beers, wine, food and whatever else you want during this 90-minute canal tour. Those Dam Boat Guys have typical Amsterdam boats (see above) that can go underneath every bridge. For rainy days, their boats offer a strong & protective tarpaulin.

Those Dam Boat Guys Price & Meeting Point

Price: 20 euro per person.
Departure: Cafe Wester at Nieuwe Leliestraat 2.
Departure times: 1 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm.
To get there: Take tram 13, 14 or 17 towards Westermarkt.

3 | Boaty Amsterdam

Want to explore Amsterdam’s waterways while being the captain of your own canal cruise? The way locals do it. Boaty Amsterdam offers electric, environment-friendly boats that you can rent with a maximum of six persons. Boaty’s location on the peaceful Amstelkanaal in the south of Amsterdam makes it an ideal launching pad for exploring the waterways before going to the more busy city-centre canals. Rental includes a detailed map of Amsterdam outlining suggested routes; you don’t need a boat license or prior experience for these smaller boats in Amsterdam. It’s recommended to book in advanced online.

Boat rental at Boaty Amsterdam

Price: per 3 hours from 79 euro.
Location: Jozef Israelskade, in front of Amsterdam’s Okura Hotel.

4 | Lovers Canal Cruises NL

Lovers has been offering canal cruises since 1950. They have a wide range of cruises; regular canal cruises, dinner cruises, candlelight cruises, evening cruises and also pizza & burger cruises. A few of their boats are fully powered by solar energy. All of Lover’s boats offer audio guides in 19 different languages. You can’t miss their orange boats which are located in front of Central Station. Lovers is open 365 days a year and their boats depart several times per hour.

Lovers Canal Cruises Price & Meeting Point

Price: 16 euro per person.
Departure: Amsterdam Central Station, right side.
Departure times: every 15 minutes from 9:00 am to 21:30 pm.
To get there: public transport or taxi to Amsterdam Central Station.

5 | Rederij Plas

This canal cruise company is one of the oldest in Amsterdam. It exist 90 years and is located near Central Station, on the Damrak street.

Rederij Plas Cruises Price & Meeting Point

Price: 12 euro per person.
Departure: Across from Amsterdam Central Station, at the Damrak.
Departure times: every 20 minutes from 10:00 am to 21:00 pm.
To get there: public transport or taxi to Amsterdam Central Station, walk 2 minutes to Damrak 28.

6 | Stromma Canal Tours

Stromma Cruises Price & Meeting Point

Price: 11,50 euro per person.
Departure: Amsterdam Central Station, left side.
Departure times: from 9:00 am to 22:00 pm.
To get there: public transport or taxi to Amsterdam Central Station, walk 2 minutes to Damrak 28.

ALSO READ:

5 Most Beautiful Canals In Amsterdam

12x Free Must See In Amsterdam

10 Amsterdam City Tours

The post 6x Best Amsterdam Canal Tours Near Central Station in 2026 appeared first on Tours in Amsterdam.

Wondering what to see in Amsterdam beyond the postcard highlights? The big museums and canals are unmissable, but this dense little city hides dozens of quirks most visitors walk straight past. Below you get both: a quick run-through of the icons you shouldn’t skip, then 16 lesser-known spots that locals actually love — the odd churches, secret courtyards, rooftop bars and creative hangouts that make the city feel like yours.

The must-see icons you shouldn’t skip

If it’s your first time, a handful of sights earn their fame. See these, then use the rest of this list to go deeper than the average visitor:

• The Rijksmuseum — the nation’s treasure house, home to Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s quiet masterpieces. It’s the one museum almost nobody regrets; here’s our full Rijksmuseum guide.
• The Van Gogh Museum — the world’s largest collection of his work, on timed tickets that sell out, so book Van Gogh tickets well ahead.
• The Anne Frank House — a moving, sobering hour in the canal house where the diary was written. Tickets are online only and released weeks in advance, so plan early.
• The canal belt and the Jordaan — the UNESCO-listed rings of water and the pretty lanes beside them are the city’s real masterpiece; wander the Jordaan and see our pick of the best canals.
• Vondelpark — the green heart where locals jog, picnic and drink in the sun; our Vondelpark guide has the details.

Tick those off and you’ve seen the essentials. Now for the good part — the 16 spots most guidebooks miss.

Amstelkerk

This wooden Dutch church was originally constructed as a temporary church back in 1668. The church was constructed with haste because the Amsterdam canal ring was expanding rapidly at the time, which meant more churchgoers that needed to be served. Temporary became permanent. 

These days the church functions as a multipurpose building. It hosts office spaces and an art gallery area, which can be visited for free during office hours. The larger midsection of the building often host chamber music events. 

Fun fact: during Napoleons visit in 1811 this church supposedly functioned as the stable for his horses. 

Het Boomzagertje

One of the six statues that suddenly appeared in Amsterdam. The maker has remained anonymous. The unknown sculptor placed his statues in the citiy in the 80’s and 90’s in the dead of night, without a prior notification.

Het Boomzagertje (the small tree cutter) is a touching little statue of a man who puts his saw in the tree. 25 years have passed since it first appeared and the tree now encapsulates the statues feet and saw. 

Fun rumor: some people speculated that the former queen of the Netherlands made the statues, because one of them had a face that looked like the one of her husband.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ

Beer from Amsterdam has conquered the world (Heineken, Amstel), but if you truly want to taste some locally brewed beer you should visit Brouwerij ‘t IJ. They offer a wide range of 25 types of beers!

This brewery is located in a former bathhouse next to one of Amsterdam’s last remaining old Dutch windmills. This brewery also has amazing terrace that fills up after each workday during the summer season. Long tables with beer, whine or juice make for an informal atmosphere where you easily meet new people. 

Still wonder: What to see in Amsterdam? Discover more free tips below:

Café In t’ Aepjen 

This café is located in the Red Light District, in an old wooden house, one of the oldest homes in Amsterdam! It dates back all the way to 1544. This was the sailor hot spot for centuries. Back in the day sailors brought back all kinds of exotic animals from their journeys and on more then one occasion these animals were used to pay the bar tab.

The owner of the café kept the monkeys he got in little cages as entertainment so his guests had what to see in Amsterdam. This explains the name of Café In T’ Aepjen (Monkey). Besides a great historical setting they also serve some quality Dutch Jenever (gin). A must visit! 

Sometimes we pass by this amazing Dutch bar during our Amsterdam Red Light District Tours.

Chinatown

In 1911 Chinese shipping stokers were the first Chinese to settle in Amsterdam. These days Amsterdam’s Chinatown is considered to be the oldest Chinese settlement on the European mainland. However, Asian town might be a better term as the area around the Zeedijk and Geldersekade also hosts many Thai, Korean, Japanese and Asian fusion restaurants.

However the Chinese remain the largest group that is present in the area. In Chinatown you’ll find the He Hua Temple at the end of the Zeedijk, close to the Nieuwmarkt. This is the largest traditional Chinese palace style Budhist temple in the whole of Europe. A must what to see in Amsterdam!

We’ll also stop at this temple and tell you more about it during our interesting and highly rated Red Light District tours with local guides. We host them daily. Click on the link above to join this fun activity in Amsterdam.

EYE

What looks like a flying saucer is actually Amsterdam’s film museum: EYE. It’s located across the IJ-river behind Amsterdam Central Station. The architect Delugan Meissel tried with this design to translate the experience of film medium into architecture. The Architects present the building as a sequence of scenes. Inside the museum there are 4 theatre rooms with an extensive collection of old and new films.

The large exhibition space presents 4 different expositions each year that highlight the thin line between film, visual arts and other types of media. For those who don’t care about any of that there’s also a very wide and sunny terrace with a great view of the IJ-river. 

Don’t stop scrolling. Discover what to see in Amsterdam now!

Floor 17

On top of the Ramada Apollo Amsterdam Centre Hotel in the western part of town sits Floor 17 an 85-meter high rooftop terrace. This terrace offers a spectacular view of the city and is open when the weather permits it. Comfy couches, beanbags and mellow music create a relaxed lounge atmosphere. Even in the wintertime this is an excellent spot as the terrace is transformed in the highest skating rink of the city. 

De Hallen

This is the new hotspot of the city. This former tram depot has been transformed into a large cinema with 9 theatre rooms and a large food hall section. As a subtle reminder to the history of the place you can still see tram rails in some parts of the building. The beautiful restoration alone is worthy of a visit. The covered food market is the main attraction and is modeled after examples from London, New York and Madrid. Around a central bar stand 20 different trendy booths that serve the higher end types of street foods. 

Hollandsche Manege 

In the center of Amsterdam there’s a surprising experience! One that shouldn’t surprise any local though since the Hollandsche Manege (Dutch Horse Riding School) has been in Amsterdam since 1882. Dolf van Gendt who also designed Amsterdam’s concert building designed the building, a National Monument.

These days it’s promoted as the living horse museum because of the 54 horses in the stables. A hidden treasure in the museum is the neoclassical style foyer where it appears that not much has changed in 130 years. Those who can already ride a horse can take lessons in astride horseback riding. 

Hortus VU

The cactus collection alone is reason enough to pay a visit to VU Hortos, VU’s very own botanical garden. Three tables both 10’s of meters long are filled from front to end with cacti and succulents, the largest collection of their kind in the Netherlands.

Other greenhouses contain large collections of orchids and ferns. In the tropical greenhouse it’s like your entering the Amazonian rainforest! Visit this unique spot in Amsterdam whilst it still exists.

Royal Palace 

Completed in 1655 Amsterdam’s new city hall was constructed with Amsterdam’s newly acquired power and wealth in mind. The 17^thcentury municipal government dared to think great and constructed the largest governmental building of Europe at the time and presented Amsterdam as the center of the universe. 

Amsterdammers used to proudly speak of the 8^th world wonder. The Royal Palace on Dam Square has an impressive classicist design. The interior dates back to the rule of Napoleon, whose brother took up residence and turned the city hall into a palace.

This place is a must visit for anyone who’s interested in Amsterdam’s golden century.

Amsterdam Red Light District

The most famous area in Amsterdam. Anything deemed unholy you can probably find in this area, window brothels with sex workers, bars, restaurants, smoke-filled cannabis coffeeshops, strip clubs you name it. The locals also know this neighbourhood as De Wallen.

But few know that this area is located in the oldest part of Amsterdam. Sex work in the Red Light District actually dates back to the 1300’s. Amsterdam was already turning into a busy trading port back then and all those sailors needed entertainment.

Despite what some may think, escorts do not work behind the windows in the Red Light District. Here you will only find window prostitutes.

Also do not miss out on the live sex shows at Moulin Rouge Amsterdam. They’re amazing and you can join as volunteer on stage during your visit, if you’re up to it.

This is why the area is located so close to Amsterdam’s Central Station, which was planted right in the spot that used to be the old harbor.

NDSM Werf

This former shipbuilding wharf is one of Amsterdam’s last real cultural sanctuaries. Shortly after the closure of the wharf in 1985 artists and outcasts discovered the area. Gradually ever more creatives such as artists, theatre makers, free thinkers and enthusiasts entered the area, where for a short while there were no rules.

As creative hotbeds were closing all over the city in 90’s some artists banded together and presented a plan to the municipality to make the wharf the largest creative hub of Europe. The NDSM wharf has since functioned as a model for the development of similar creative spots all over the world. Expect a creative treasure when you visit this part of town! 

Oost-Indisch Huis

When people talk about Holland’s golden century the VOC, world’s first corporation, will always be discussed. The Oost –Indisch Huis (East-Indian House) served as headquarters of the most powerful and wealthiest corporation that the world has ever known.

These days the building is owned by the Amsterdam University and houses the faculty for political, social and cultural sciences. But it takes little imagination to see the 17^thcentury merchants.

This place that reminds the visitor of the start of the Dutch colonial era also commemorates its end. A plaque remembers 12 American journalists that died in a plane crash after a Dutch press junket trip. 50 years later it was found out that Indonesian Republican separatists were possibly behind the crash. 

Amsterdam Trees Street

On the Lomanstraat in Amsterdam you can find these beautiful trees that look like they come from a Harry Potter movie.

Volkshotel 

After a thorough renovation the Volkhotel (peoples hotel) re-opened its doors as a hotel, café, restaurant and club where, as one would expect with such a company name, everybody is welcome! There’s close to 24/7 hours of different entertainment options for every type of person.

At the ground floor things are lively in “werkplaats”, with on the left a café with among other things a chilled game corner, and on the right long tables and meeting rooms for flex workers. At the backside of the building are workspaces for creative spirits.

But to really get a feeling of the building you’ll have to take the elevator to the 7^thfloor. Enter Club Canvas with its rooftop terrace with a great view of Amsterdam. After 10 pm all the tables and chairs are cleared from the floor and infamous club canvas nights start off inside.

And if you’re up for an all-nighter head back down to the basement to Doka “the basement where life happens in the dark”.

The Best Street Markets in Amsterdam

We also listed 7 street markets in Amsterdam which offers clothing, (Dutch) food, tulips, books, art, vinyl records, jewelry, etc. Check it out!

Where to wander: Amsterdam’s best neighbourhoods

Half of what to see in Amsterdam isn’t a single sight at all — it’s the districts, each with its own character. Give yourself time to just walk these:

• The Jordaan — narrow lanes, tucked-away almshouse courtyards (the hofjes), brown cafes and the Noordermarkt. The most photogenic quarter in the city.
• De Pijp — the lively, multicultural south, built around the Albert Cuyp Market and full of terraces and small restaurants.
• Amsterdam-Noord and NDSM — a free ferry ride across the IJ takes you to the post-industrial creative quarter on this list, plus street art, festivals and rooftop views.
• The Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes) — a grid of independent boutiques and cafes threaded through the canal belt, ideal for a slow afternoon of shopping.
• Oost (East) — leafy, local and home to the ARTIS zoo and the Tropenmuseum, well off the tourist trail.

The best views in Amsterdam

A few spots on this list are really about the view, and they beat fighting the crowds at ground level. Floor 17 and the Volkshotel’s rooftop both trade a lift ride for a drink with a skyline; across the water in Noord, the terrace at EYE looks straight back at the old city, and the nearby A’DAM Lookout adds Europe’s highest swing for anyone with a head for heights. For a free version, simply climb aboard one of the IJ ferries behind Central Station — the five-minute crossing is one of the best no-cost experiences in the city.

How many days do you need, and how to get around

Most first-timers find two to three days about right: enough for the big museums, a canal cruise and a proper wander, with time left for a few of the quirks on this list. Got longer? Add a day trip to the windmills or a nearby canal city. Tight on time? Our 2-day and 3-day itineraries map it all out hour by hour.

Getting around is easy. The centre is small and flat, so walking covers most of it, and a canal cruise is the classic way to see the grand houses from the water. For longer hops, the GVB trams, metro and free IJ ferries do the job, and if you’re visiting a stack of museums it’s worth pricing an I amsterdam City Card, which bundles transport with free entry. Feeling brave? Renting a bike is the most local way to travel — just read up on cycling in Amsterdam first, because the traffic takes no prisoners.

When is the best time to see Amsterdam?

Amsterdam works year-round, but the season changes the mood. Spring is the showpiece — tulips everywhere, the nearby Keukenhof gardens in bloom, and the whole country turning orange for King’s Day on 27 April, the biggest street party of the year. Summer brings long days and packed canal-side terraces, though it’s also the busiest and priciest time. Autumn thins the crowds and lights the canals in gold, while winter is cosy and cheaper, with the Amsterdam Light Festival glowing along the water and the museums blissfully quiet. For the best balance of decent weather and fewer tourists, aim for late spring or early autumn. Whatever month you pick, check the Amsterdam weather by month before you pack — the one constant is that it can rain at any time.

Frequently asked questions

What is the number one thing to see in Amsterdam?

For most first-time visitors it’s the Rijksmuseum, home to Rembrandt’s Night Watch and the finest collection of Dutch Golden Age art anywhere. A close second is simply the canal belt itself — the UNESCO-listed rings of water are the sight the whole city is built around.

What is Amsterdam best known for?

Its canals and gabled houses, world-class art museums (the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum), the Anne Frank House, cycling culture, and a famously liberal outlook that includes the Red Light District and coffeeshops. It’s also known for the Jordaan’s charm and a lively cafe and market scene.

How many days do you need to see Amsterdam?

Two to three days is the sweet spot for a first visit — enough for the main museums, a canal cruise and time to wander the neighbourhoods. Add a day or two if you want a day trip to the windmills, Leiden or the coast.

What should you not miss in Amsterdam?

The Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, a walk or cruise through the canal belt and the Jordaan, and Vondelpark. Beyond those, the lesser-known spots on this list — from Brouwerij ‘t IJ to NDSM and the He Hua Temple in Chinatown — are what make a trip feel personal.

What is there to see in Amsterdam for free?

Plenty. The IJ ferries behind Central Station, the Amstelkerk gallery, window-shopping the Nine Streets, the Begijnhof courtyard, the city’s street markets, and simply walking the canals all cost nothing. Several viewpoints on this list, like the EYE terrace, are free to enjoy too.

Is Amsterdam a walkable city?

Very. The historic centre is compact and flat, and most of the big sights sit within a 30-minute walk of one another. Watch out for cyclists and tram tracks, and use the trams or a bike only when you’re crossing town or heading to Noord.

What is the most beautiful part of Amsterdam?

The Jordaan and the western canal belt around the Nine Streets are widely considered the prettiest — narrow lanes, humpback bridges, houseboats and 17th-century facades. The stretch along the Brouwersgracht canal is a particular favourite.

What can you see in Amsterdam in one day?

With one day, pick one major museum (the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh), take a canal cruise, wander the Jordaan and the Nine Streets, and end in or near the Red Light District. Our one-day itinerary lays out an efficient route so you don’t waste time backtracking.

Is 2 days enough to see Amsterdam?

Two days is enough for the highlights — one major museum, a canal cruise, the Jordaan and the Red Light District — if you plan a tight route. Three days is more comfortable and lets you add a few of the lesser-known spots on this list, or a short day trip.

Do you need to book Amsterdam museums in advance?

For the busiest ones, yes. The Anne Frank House is online-only and sells out weeks ahead, the Van Gogh Museum uses timed tickets that go quickly, and the Rijksmuseum can ask for a timeslot at peak times. Smaller, lesser-known sights you can usually just walk into.

What is unique to Amsterdam?

The scale and preservation of its 17th-century canal ring is genuinely one of a kind, as is the sheer density of houseboats, bikes and gabled merchant houses. Add the Anne Frank House, the world’s largest Van Gogh collection and quirks like the He Hua Temple and the anonymous street statues on this list, and you get a mix you won’t find anywhere else.

So, there you have it! Our top picks for things to see and do in Amsterdam when you’re on a budget. If you want more tips or ideas, be sure to check out our other blog posts or hit the green button below to get all sorts of travel advice. And finally, don’t forget to enjoy your time in this beautiful city – after all, that’s what traveling is all about! 🙂

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Planning a trip to Amsterdam and looking for fun things to do? Check out this top 10 Amsterdam city tours list.

Red Light District Tour Ban

Since a short while it’s forbidden for tour guides and companies to host tours through Amsterdam Red Light District. The City of Amsterdam does not want this anymore. A new local law has been implemented. This so called APV law does not allow tours through the Red Light District.

Instead, download the Amsterdam Audio Tours app and discover the RLD with this GPS-guided tour. It contains stories from 22 experts and has a virtual guide too.

Amsterdam History Walking Tour

This tour is a great, no too long, primer on Amsterdam’s rich history and culture. You’ll do this Amsterdam city tours together with a local licensed guide and walk past the city’s most iconic attractions, its beautiful streets and bridges. tour the UNESCO world heritage canal ring and hear how it was constructed and paid for. The tour has a neat chronological order, starting off in the 13th century and ending in the 21th century. This tour gives a great context of the city for the rest of your stay.

Price per person: 17,50 euro

Those Damn Boat Guys | Small Group Boat Tour

What better way to see Amsterdam than from the water? This Amsterdam city tours option is great for those who like a more intimate experience. Those Dam Boat Guys main focus is on making your canal boat tour a casual, relaxing and fun experience.

Because of the seating arrangements in the boat and the relatively small group size there’s great opportunity for interaction with your fellow travellers and captain. During the tour you’ll be able to ask any question to your captain. This isn’t possible on the larger tour boats where you’ll have to do with an audio tour for your information.

Price per person: 25,- euro

Amsterdam Red Light District Daytime Tour

See Amsterdam’s most famous area together with an experienced local guide, whilst you still can! See those hidden spots that you’d normally miss out on and hear some amazing stories. During this unique and exciting tour you’ll learn how and why the sex trade has been an integral part of Amsterdam ever since its founding. You’ll also learn how the Dutch are currently tackling the issue of prostitution and hear about the business from the sex worker point of view. This is a tour you cannot miss out on during you trip to Amsterdam.

Price per person: 17,50 euro

Amsterdam Bicycle Tour With A Small Group

There’s a reason why everybody in Amsterdam rides a bicycle, it’s simply the easiest mode of transportation to get around the city. Now you too can explore Amsterdam like the Dutch. This two or three hour bicycle tour will let you see parts of the city that you’d miss whilst just exploring on foot. At a leisure pace you’ll bike along the famous canal ring, visit green parks and pass by the top attractions of the city. This small-group tour has a maximum cap of just 12 persons, guaranteeing personalised attention from your passionate and informative guide.

Price per person: 20,- euro

Amsterdam Drugs Tour

When people think of Amsterdam a lot immediately think of drugs. But what do they really know about the subject? During this Amsterdam Drugs Tour an experienced guide tells you about the historical relationship that Amsterdam has with drugs, both legal and illegal. Hear about the policy of toleration when it comes to so called “soft drugs” like cannabis and how the Dutch educate their youngster about illegal drugs. Learn why XTC has become the drug of choice for the young and why heroin lost that position after a massive heroin epidemic. This is a tour you only get to do in Amsterdam!

Price per person: 19,50 euro

Amsterdam City Tours: Brothel Tour

Get a peak behind the curtains of Amsterdam’s hippest strip club and brothel. During this guided tour, a sex worker will show you around Amsterdam’s most exclusive club and tell you about all the going-ons there and about the sex industry as a whole. Hear about the life of a sex worker, the safety precautions they take, what prices they charge and get a chance to ask about anything else you might be interested in! You can also climb one of the strip polls and take some pictures.

Price per person: 20,- euro

Amsterdam Countryside Bicycle Tour

Get away from the city bustle and take a bicycle trip down the quieter paths through Amsterdams surroundings. Don’t just limit yourself to just Amsterdam’s historic city centre, there’s a whole, uuuh, countryside out there to explore! Cycle at a leisurely pace past scenic small villages, the Amstel river and green fields filled with black and white cows. You’ll also visit a historical windmill, farmhouse and cheese factory. Buy your cheese directly from the factory, which is much cheaper than in Amsterdam’s centre. This a great relaxing daytime tour activity which has the added bonus of being good for your health!

Price per person: 32,- euro

Private Amsterdam Bicycle Tour

The advantage of doing a private bicycle tour is pretty clear: you don’t have to wait on other (slower) people and you get to see those specific highlights and attractions that you’d like to see during your visit. We can recommend anybody who has the extra money to take this option. Together with your bicycle guide you’ll set off along the safest and most easiest bike paths that crisscross Amsterdam’s most charming and historic neighbourhoods. Get the most out of your guided experience by having all the time to ask questions or discuss the topics that you’re interested in.

Price per person: 37,- euro

Amsterdam Red Light District Tour Night

New city laws have made it impossible to tour the Red Light District after 7 pm in a large tour group. Touring around yourself by using an app called Amsterdam Audio Stories is still possible though. See Amsterdam’s Red Light District the way it should be seen: in the dark. Besides walking in a completely different atmosphere compared to the day time, there will also be more sex workers at work during the evening hours.

Price: 5 euro

Amsterdam Canal Tour

See the hidden treasures of Amsterdam’s magnificent world heritage canal ring. Step aboard a comfortable solar-powered clean air vessel that takes you on a one hour cruise across the canals. Included in this Amsterdam city tours is a GPS audio guide in 19 differentiations languages. Hear interesting facts and stories to go along with all that architectural eye-candy. Highlights of this tour include the so called Golden Bend, the most beautiful part of the Amsterdam canal ring, the Westerkerk and the Anne Frank House.

Price per person: 16,- euro

Looking for more fun things to do in Amsterdam? Check out our blog with other great stuff in this beautiful city:

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