The younger crowd always carries a curiosity and desire to explore things. Living in a new city makes this desire worth pursuing. Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is not only known for its artistic heritage but also for adventure, fun, and entertainment. There are plenty of things that young adults can explore in this beautiful city. In this blog, we’ll talk about some must-try things that international students can do in this amazing city.
This Blog Includes:
- Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
- Take a Trip to Zandaam on Two Wheels
- Take Part in Amsterdam’s Dance Festivals
- Ice Skating in Winters
- Party at Great Live Music Venues
- Plan a Picnic in Vondelpark
- Tempt Your Taste Buds with Local Cuisines
- Take a Canal Cruise to See the City from the Water
- Visit the Heineken Experience Brewery Tour
- Step Back in Time at Rembrandt House Museum
- Explore the Street Art Scene in Amsterdam-Noord
- Discover the History of the Red Light District
- Get a Dose of Science Fun at NEMO Science Museum
- Shop Unique Finds at the Albert Cuyp Market
- Tour the Royal Palace of Amsterdam
- Visit De Pijp: Amsterdam’s Trendiest Neighborhood
- Enjoy a Day Trip to the Windmills of Zaanse Schans
- FAQs on Things to do in Amsterdam
Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
From cycling and skating to partying and dancing there is no shortage of options in this city. Let’s get straight to the point and talk about the top things to do in Amsterdam for young adults!
Take a Trip to Zandaam on Two Wheels
If you are someone who enjoys outdoor activities then cycling to Zandaam would be a great option. Many young adults take this outdoor adventure to rejuvenate and take a break from their college schedule. This will allow you to see the scenic beauty and learn about the culture of Dutch villages. You can rent a bike and cycle through lush countryside, taking pictures of the windmills and passing through rivers. It will take about 2-3 hours to cycle till Zandaam and return. You would be surprised to know that one of the many interesting facts about Amsterdam is that it has four times more bicycles than cars. Another reason for you to take your bicycle and hit the road!
Also Read: If you are planning to move to Amsterdam, then you must know Things not to do in Amsterdam
Take Part in Amsterdam’s Dance Festivals
Dancing often helps in managing stress and energising the mind. If you are someone who likes grooving to electronic music then many popular dance festivals in Amsterdam are worth exploring. Two of the most popular dance festivals are DGTL which takes place in April each year and ADE which happens in October. You can buy the tickets for both these festivals online and enjoy them with your friends.
Ice Skating in Winters
Winters in Amsterdam are severe so much so that the canals and rivers freeze. Well, this is in a way a great opportunity to go ice skating. Some of the best places to go ice skating are Rembrandtplein, Winter Village at Winkelcentrum Stadshart, Amstelveen, and the historic Jaap Eden Ice Rink. To explore popular rinks like Rembrandtplein, you must book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment.
Party at Great Live Music Venues
Amsterdam has many options when it comes to its live music scene. A favourite venue among the student community is Melkweg near Leidseplein which forms the heart of Amsterdam’s nightlife culture. Melkweg offers an array of music genres and artists and sees a major footfall of young adults. It is regarded as an awesome concert venue where jumping, dancing, and singing are a common thing. Do explore this venue on your next weekend!
Plan a Picnic in Vondelpark
If you are someone who likes spending quality time with friends, then a picnic could also be a great option. Vondelpark in Amsterdam serves as the perfect option for this activity. You can pack whatever food items you and your friends like along with some fresh fruits and juice. Visiting the park in the early morning hours would be the best option as during that time it will be less crowded and you can find a great spot to set up your picnic baskets.
Tempt Your Taste Buds with Local Cuisines
Head out to one of the biggest and best markets in Amsterdam, Albert Cuppy market. You may shop for anything and everything at very reasonable prices from here. Whether you are a person of street food or a fine dining lover, this market has a lot to offer. From stroopwafels and bitterballen to international cuisines, tempt your taste buds with some of the best and flavorsome delicacies.
Take a Canal Cruise to See the City from the Water
One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is from the water. Canal cruises offer a relaxing and scenic way to explore the city’s iconic canal system. Students can opt for a traditional boat tour or rent a private boat with friends. Many cruises provide audio guides explaining the history and significance of the canals and nearby landmarks. A canal tour allows students to see parts of the city they might miss on foot, offering a unique perspective of Amsterdam.
Visit the Heineken Experience Brewery Tour
For students interested in beer, the Heineken Experience is an interactive museum and brewery tour that offers a fun and educational experience. Located in the original Heineken brewery, visitors can learn about the brewing process, the history of the company, and the global impact of Heineken. The tour ends with a tasting session, where students can sample different varieties of Heineken beer. It’s a must-see for beer enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a classic Amsterdam experience.
Step Back in Time at Rembrandt House Museum
The Rembrandt House Museum is dedicated to the life and works of the Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. Located in the house where he lived and worked for nearly 20 years, the museum offers a fascinating look at his personal life and creative process. Students studying art history or anyone interested in 17th-century art will enjoy this museum. The house has been restored to reflect Rembrandt’s studio, and students can explore his engravings, etchings, and other works of art.
Explore the Street Art Scene in Amsterdam-Noord
Amsterdam-Noord is a district across the IJ River known for its vibrant street art scene. Students who enjoy urban culture and contemporary art will appreciate the colorful murals and installations scattered throughout the area. The NDSM wharf, an old industrial site, is particularly famous for its large-scale graffiti and murals. Amsterdam-Noord is a hip, creative neighborhood that offers a stark contrast to the city’s historical center, making it a great place to explore and photograph.
Discover the History of the Red Light District
The Red Light District, or De Wallen, is one of Amsterdam’s most famous and controversial areas. Students can visit during the day for a more educational perspective, learning about the district’s history and the legal framework surrounding prostitution in the Netherlands. The area also offers museums like the Sex Museum and the Red Light Secrets Museum, which dive deeper into the cultural significance of this unique part of the city. It’s a fascinating part of Amsterdam’s modern history.
Get a Dose of Science Fun at NEMO Science Museum
For students who love science and interactive learning, the NEMO Science Museum is a great spot. It’s an educational museum designed for all ages, with hands-on exhibits that encourage exploration and experimentation. From robotics to physics, students can dive into scientific concepts in an engaging and entertaining way. The museum also offers workshops and activities tailored to young visitors, making it an ideal destination for both solo visits or group outings.
Shop Unique Finds at the Albert Cuyp Market
The Albert Cuyp Market is one of the largest and most famous street markets in Amsterdam. Students can browse stalls selling everything from fresh produce and Dutch cheeses to clothing and souvenirs. The market is located in the De Pijp district, known for its multicultural atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal or unique items to bring home, Albert Cuyp Market offers an authentic Amsterdam shopping experience.
Tour the Royal Palace of Amsterdam
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located in Dam Square and is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Originally built as a city hall, it’s now used for official royal functions. Students can take a tour of the palace’s grand rooms, learn about the Dutch monarchy, and admire the stunning 17th-century architecture. The palace is also open for special events, so check the schedule to see if there are any interesting exhibitions or ceremonies during your visit.
Visit De Pijp: Amsterdam’s Trendiest Neighborhood
De Pijp is a trendy, vibrant neighborhood in Amsterdam, perfect for students looking to experience the city’s multicultural atmosphere. The area is home to great cafes, vintage shops, and a lively nightlife scene. De Pijp is also home to the famous Albert Cuyp Market, where you can shop for fresh produce or unique goods. It’s a laid-back district where you can spend a day exploring and enjoying the local culture.
Enjoy a Day Trip to the Windmills of Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans, located just outside Amsterdam, is a popular day-trip destination for students. The open-air museum offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch life with historical windmills, wooden houses, and craft workshops. Students can learn how windmills were used for various industries like grinding flour and sawmilling. A visit to Zaanse Schans is a great way to escape the city for a while and experience rural Dutch culture.
Further Read: If you are planning to study abroad, then you must read Best Places to Study Abroad in Europe According to QS Ranking
FAQs on Things to do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has many fun things to do, including canal cruises and nature walks. You can also visit museums including the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum.
Amsterdam attracts tourists from all over the world, especially young people. People like travelling to this country due to its liberal culture and diverse lifestyle.
Amsterdam offers a great nightlife culture. There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam including dance festivals, club nights, and entertainment venues.
Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Royal Palace Amsterdam are some of the top attractions in Amsterdam.
Some of the things that Amsterdam is famous for are-
-Dutch tulips
-Royal Palace Amsterdam
-Van Gogh Museum
-Canals and canal cruise
-Anne Frank’s House
Head out to Albert Cuppy market which is one of the best and biggest markets in Amsterdam. The street has so much to offer from international cuisines to delicious street food.
Students visiting Amsterdam should check out the iconic canals, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and Van Gogh Museum. These spots give a great sense of the city’s history, art, and culture, perfect for a first-time visit.
Students enjoy nightlife spots around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. You’ll find clubs, live music, and pubs that offer special student discounts on certain nights, making it fun and affordable.
You can take a canal cruise for a guided experience, rent a pedal boat, or simply walk around the canals. Many prefer renting bikes to see the canals and enjoy scenic spots along the way at their own pace.
Absolutely! The Anne Frank House offers a profound look into history, making it one of Amsterdam’s most impactful attractions. Students often find it moving and educational, especially with background knowledge of WWII.
Start with the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Then, explore street art in Amsterdam-Noord and visit independent galleries in the Jordaan district. This mix lets you see both classic and modern art styles.
Definitely! Enjoy Vondelpark, walk around the Jordaan district, visit the floating flower market, and explore the city’s famous canals. These are all free and offer a great feel of the city’s charm.
Amsterdam is generally very safe, even at night. Stick to well-lit, central areas like Dam Square, and always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid poorly lit alleys and know that there’s a strong police presence in tourist areas.
Spring (April to May) is ideal for students to see the city’s famous tulips, while fall (September to October) offers cooler weather and fewer crowds. Summer is fun but can be pricier and busier with tourists.
This blog was all about things to do in Amsterdam for young adults. For booking the best student housing abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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