Whether you like to chill for free with some flamingos, take a sip of a local beer under a windmill, visit popular museums like Van Gogh when it’s quiet, or stroll along old Dutch houses, it’s all in here!
- Visit Prinseneiland
- Local Beers at Brouwerij ‘t IJ
- Seeing Flamingos at Artisplein
- Visit Van Gogh Museum, Huis van Marseille and Anne Frank Huis at Night
- Afternoon Tea at Amstel Hotel
- Visit an Outdoor Private Sauna in Amsterdam North
- De Koffieschenkerij
- Oudemanhuispoort Book Market
- Canal Tour With a 100-Year Old Saloon Boat
- Hortus Botanicus – Botanical Garden of Amsterdam
- Lunch at Markerhuisje
- Durgerdammerdijk
- Zoku rooftop
Visit Prinseneiland
This is one of our favorite spots for a quiet stroll while still soaking in the best Amsterdam vibes. The island is connected by picturesque bridges, featuring cobblestone streets and historic warehouses. They even have a palm tree garden that you can enter for free!
Starting your walk is easy; just head to Sloterdijkstraat 13 and cross the bridge.
Local Beers at Brouwerij ‘t IJ
A local gem tucked away near the windmill. This brewery isn’t just about beer; it’s a haven for locals seeking a laid-back spot away from the usual chaos. With its spacious beer garden and great setting, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a go-to for those who appreciate good locally crafted beers and a relaxed vibe.
Check their website for the right opening times.
Seeing Flamingos at Artisplein
Opening times: daily from 7 AM until 11 PM
Picture this: a little oasis in the heart of Amsterdam East where you can enjoy the company of flamingos for free! It’s the perfect spot to unwind. Bring some nice drinks & snacks or simply enjoy a good book. It’s a local favorite and also very high on our own list of favorite places around the city.
Visit Van Gogh Museum, Huis van Marseille and Anne Frank Huis at Night
A great way of discovering these popular museums is at night! The evening ambiance adds a nice atmosphere to these iconic locations. Go on an evening of cultural exploration without the bustling crowds. We promise you, it will be good!
Tickets Van Gogh Museum, between March and September on Fridays until 9 PM
Tickets Huis van Marseille, on Thursdays until 9 PM
Tickets Anne Frank Huis, every evening until 10 PM
Afternoon Tea at Amstel Hotel
Whether you’re a local or visitor; in our opinion an Afternoon Tea at the Amstel Hotel is one of the things you should have done once! The chic atmosphere of the Amstel Hotel combined with Afternoon Tea in the beautiful conservatory overlooking the Amstel River. For locals, the Amstel Hotel holds a special place. It’s an iconic building with a rich history that opened its doors in 1867.
Visit an Outdoor Private Sauna in Amsterdam North
What is better than an outdoor spa in Amsterdam? Badhus is inspired by Nordic Winter Bathing Tradition and it’s amazing! You can take a cold plunge in the tubs, enjoy the sauna, sit next to the bonfire with a good glass of wine, swim in the water & enjoy a bit of nature! You can book your spa session here.
@welikeamsterdam 📍Badhus, Amsterdam North. A floating sauna, surrounded by nature, natural swimming + cold plunges, bonfire & sunset views. What do you want more?😍 You can enjoy this private sauna with up to 6 people. Who do you want to bring? #amsterdamguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamlocal #thingstodoamsterdam #badhus
De Koffieschenkerij
A really good coffee in Amsterdam and a true hidden gem! Nestled against the wall of The Old Church (De Oude Kerk), you’ll find this authentic spot. It’s not really a place you would expect in the heart of the Red Light District, which is why we love it. For locals, it’s a familiar escape from the crowds, while for tourists, it offers an authentic Amsterdam experience. Our favorite spot? The courtyard! Go check it out yourself, and you’ll understand why we adore this place. Oh, and don’t forget to try their homemade apple pie!
>> Want access to all the hidden gems and best hotspots in town? Grab our Google Hotspot Maps with over 400 spots so you’ll always know where to go!
Oudemanhuispoort Book Market
Open Monday to Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM (best on Saturdays)
Visit a centuries-old book market hidden in a 400-year-old passage. You can learn a lot about the history of Amsterdam here, and it’s also great for finding artsy treasures. Highly recommend hunting here!
Canal Tour With a 100-Year Old Saloon Boat
This is one of those experiences you will remember for a long time. When you take a canal cruise in Amsterdam, you can, of course, go with the regular tour boat. However, a special and local option is to go on a 100-year-old saloon boat—an absolutely unforgettable 1.5-hour experience, even if you’re a local. You can board at the Prinsengracht.
The boat only accommodates 12 persons, so it’s important to make a reservation in advance! Book your spot here.
Hortus Botanicus – Botanical Garden of Amsterdam
A beautiful botanical garden that offers a peaceful afternoon in the city. You’ll find all kinds of exotic plants and beautiful flowers. Take a stroll through the diverse landscapes, explore the historical greenhouses, and enjoy a moment of serenity away from the crowds. They also have a really nice cafe where they offer delicious cakes and other jummie things!
Lunch at Markerhuisje
If you’re looking for hidden gems, this is it! This super-small, picturesque restaurant has a history dating back to 1885. They also have a small terrace by the water where you can enjoy sunshine all day. You can stop by here for breakfast, lunch, a drink, or a three-course dinner. We love to spend our Sunday afternoon here!
You can find more info on their website.
Durgerdammerdijk
Nestled along the serene shores of the IJmeer, Durgerdammerdijk is such a lovely escape from the busy city. You’ll find old green wooden Dutch houses dating back centuries. It’s so nice to have a walk here and definitely have some food at De Durgerdam. Such an amazing vibe, and when the weather is good, you can enjoy their terrace next to the water. You can reach Durgerdammerdijk easily with the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station to IJplein. It’s best to bring your bike.
Don’t have a bike yet? You can rent your bike here.
Zoku rooftop
What is a better place to escape the crowds than on a height, right? The coffee is really good, so it’s a great place to wake up and enjoy some city views. They have this concept they call the “living kitchen.” You eat together with other guests on long tables, and you can get your food from their buffet with homemade fresh foods. They also have an amazing rooftop terrace with all kinds of greens. Besides all of this, it’s also a really popular co-working space!
We’ve also listed 19 X Free Things to Do and check out our Most Favorite Hotspots.
