Rachel Pearson 
Amsterdam is the largest city of the Kingdom of Netherlands, as well as the capital. Amsterdam is also the most populated city in the Netherlands, which millions of tourists visit annually. This small city was originally a fishing village, but it had the potential to be much more, as we can see today. The gorgeous canals and bridges throughout Amsterdam are reason enough to want to visit this lovely city. If you are thinking of visiting Amsterdam but are unsure of where to go, check out the list below. The list below has some fun activities and ideas for you to do while in Amsterdam. So hop on a plane, train, or bike and check out what this wonderful city has in store for you.
1. Check out the Noordermarkt
This market is a famous farmers market in Amsterdam. You can sample the best fresh fruits and vegetables this market has to offer. Amsterdam farmers try to maintain an organic style of farming, which makes their food even more delicious.
2. Visit the Condomeire
The Condomeire is the first condom shop in the world. Although it may have been taboo to open this type of shop during the 80’s, it surely has kept its place in the city today. With its colorful condoms and interesting designs, this shop helps promote safe sex, which is important.
3. Check out a free concert
Every Wednesday, Concertgebouw has famous performers rehearse for their later shows, or lesser-known performers play their hearts out for locals. Enjoy the free show while grabbing a bite to eat.
4. Enjoy a bicycle ride
Renting a car can be super expensive when visiting Amsterdam, so why not rent a bicycle instead? You can go on your own personal tour of the city on a bicycle. You can beat the traffic and find the best parking spots in the city (for free)!
5. Visit the Anne Frank Museum
Even if you are not a huge history buff, you are sure to have read or heard about the Diary of Anne Frank. The heartbreaking but inspiring true story of Anne Frank can be seen through the eyes of the Anne Frank Museum. The story of Anne Frank helps remind visitors that the world can be a cruel place, but the innocence of a child is pure and beautiful.
6. Check out the Van Gogh Museum
For all you art lovers out there, check out the Van Gogh Museum. Van Gogh’s private collection of artwork had been kept private for many years by Van Gogh’s sister-in-law after his death. The art world is a better place now that Van Gogh’s lesser-known artwork is displayed for the public to enjoy.
7. Go to a comedy show
Who doesn’t like to laugh or have a good time? Check out the improvised comedy show at Easylaughs’. You can go with friends or meet some new friends while you are there. Just be ready for a night filled with fun and laughter.
8. Visit Westerpark
Sometimes the busyness of the city center can feel so overwhelming that you need a place to unwind, like Westerpark. Westerpark is a great place to cool down from a busy day or let your kids run free in the grassy garden.
9. Visit Museumplein
Museumplein is a wonderful place for art lovers to take in the beauty surrounding them. This area of Amsterdam is open to the public, offering exhibitions and markets. If you visit during the summer, there is a shallow pool that you can dip your feet into. If you visit in the winter, this shallow pool becomes an ice skating rink.
10. Check out the Red-Light District
You cannot leave Amsterdam without visiting the infamous Red-Light District unless you are underage. This district is full of sex shops, adult theatres, and strip clubs. While some people may not enjoy this type of entertainment, others strive to make this area their top destination.
11. Go on a canal cruise
Visiting Amsterdam on foot or by bicycle can be exhausting. Why not go on a canal cruise through the city? The cruise can be taken either day or night and is a perfect idea for a romantic date. You can choose the guided tour or regular cruise and enjoy the beautiful view of Amsterdam.
12. Check out a windmill
If you live in a large city center, then you may have only seen a windmill in movies. Check out one of the remaining eight windmills in Amsterdam’s Easter Island area. You can grab a sandwich or cold beer while you admire the windmills’ beauty.
13. Sit at a local coffee shop
One of the things that links the world together is coffee. Coffee is made differently in each country and region throughout the world. Try a cup of coffee at a local shop in Amsterdam. Remember that legalization of marijuana and other soft drugs is allowed in Amsterdam, and you may see people smoking these types of drugs at coffee shops.
14. Check out The Begijnhof
The Begijnhof is the oldest inner courtyard in Amsterdam. This courtyard is surrounded by intense beauty and gorgeous flowers. You can also see many other public courtyards throughout Amsterdam, but none more beautiful than this.
15. Visit Vondelpark
Vondelpark is a public park that opened in 1865. This public park has an open-air theatre and playground for children to have fun in.
16. Eat a stroopwafel
A stroopwafel is similar to a waffle. This delicious treat is sold on the streets and cafés around the city. You can smell the tastiness of the stroopwafel in the air as you turn every corner in Amsterdam. But don’t expect an Aunt Jemima style waffle handed to you. These stroopwafels can be covered in Nutella or a caramel-like sauce.
17. Visit the fashion district
After all, you are in Europe, which is known to house the best fashion designers in the world. Check out the fashion district and treat yourself to a gorgeous Chanel purse (as long as you don’t break the bank).
