Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals.
Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour!
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals.
Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour!
Learn More About Amsterdam
Public Transportation
For the most convenient and fastest way to Amsterdam’s city center, a direct railway line connects Schiphol International Airport with Amsterdam Central Station. Visitor can reach the downtown area in about 20 minutes.
For public transport in Amsterdam and the general area, the public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart), which can be used to travel on trams, buses and trains. The best option if you visit is a one-hour card or day card (valid for one to seven days). Buy one-hour tickets from the driver or conductor on the bus or tram.
Day tickets may be purchased in advance or purchased on the tram. Day cards are not available from bus drivers. Your ticket is valid across the whole network from the first use, allowing you to take as many journeys as you choose within a certain timeframe.
Amsterdam is on its way to making public transport completely cashless. Now, tickets can only be purchased using debit or credit cards.
For public transport in Amsterdam and the general area, the public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart), which can be used to travel on trams, buses and trains. The best option if you visit is a one-hour card or day card (valid for one to seven days). Buy one-hour tickets from the driver or conductor on the bus or tram.
Day tickets may be purchased in advance or purchased on the tram. Day cards are not available from bus drivers. Your ticket is valid across the whole network from the first use, allowing you to take as many journeys as you choose within a certain timeframe.
Amsterdam is on its way to making public transport completely cashless. Now, tickets can only be purchased using debit or credit cards.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Light artwork/installations event held early December until late January.
Christmas Markets
Late November until early January.
Chinese New Year
Major celebration near Nieuwmarkt on February 12, 2021.
Open Garden Days
Across Amsterdam on the third weekend of June, visitors are given access to beautiful, private gardens behind houses along the city's canals.
Heritage Day
On the second weekend of September, the doors of approximately 4,000 of Amsterdam's monumental buildings are opened to the public.
Kwaku Summer Festival
From 7/11/2025 - 8/3/2025
Experience the lively spirit of the Kwaku Summer Festival, an event that brings together diverse cultures through a rich blend of music, food, and art. Attendees can enjoy a variety of performances, indulge in international cuisines, and explore engaging art exhibits in a vibrant community setting. This festival offers a colorful celebration of multiculturalism, fostering connections and joy among its visitors.
Pride Amsterdam
From 7/26/2025 - 8/3/2025
Celebrate unity and diversity at Pride Amsterdam, an event that transforms the city into a colorful hub of LGBTQ+ festivities. Attendees can join in vibrant parades and enjoy live performances that highlight the inclusive spirit of the community. This festival offers a joyous and empowering atmosphere, fostering acceptance and love across Amsterdam's picturesque canals and streets.
Open Air Film Festival Pride
From 7/30/2025 - 7/31/2025
As Pride lights up Amsterdam streets with love and music, this film festival invites you to settle in under the open sky. Movies with queer themes play in different neighbourhood squares like Mercatorplein and Gershwinplein. Bring your friends, a cosy blanket, and snacks for an evening of community and cinema in the open air.
Amsterdam: Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n Roll
On 7/30/2025
Explore the provocative side of Dutch cinema in this engaging evening with director Eddy Terstall. Through film clips and candid discussion, delve into how sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll have shaped the nation’s film history. A bold, insightful journey into the raw edges of onscreen storytelling.
Fluitje van een Cent
From 8/1/2025 - 8/9/2025
What is the true worth of something? In this bold and energetic performance, young performers dive into a world of money, possessions, and desire. Fluitje van een cent is packed with sharp lines, humor, and relatable moments.
Janey - Pride Mini Festival
From 8/1/2025 - 8/2/2025
Paradiso transforms into a vibrant Pride mini-festival for girls who love girls with an electric mix of urban, pop, house and hits. Expect non-stop sets from DJs across multiple rooms, a dynamic crowd and an atmosphere made for dancing, connecting and celebrating queer joy. Grab your crew, bring your best festival outfit and get ready for a night of laughter, flirting and unforgettable vibes.
Canal Parade
On 8/2/2025
Boats like you’ve never seen before. The Canal Parade is the dazzling highlight of Pride Amsterdam, where dozens of elaborately decorated boats sail through the city’s canals in a celebration of love, freedom, and identity. Expect colour, music, and a crowd that cheers from every bridge and quay.
Sherry Vine - Comedy Couture
On 8/1/2025
Drag legend Sherry Vine lands in Amsterdam with her brand new show, packed with hilarious parodies, biting comedy and just the right amount of filth. Expect diva energy, laugh-out-loud moments and glamorous chaos from a true icon of the scene.
Workshop on Masonry the Amsterdam School
On 8/2/2025
Looking for a fun and hands-on family activity? In this workshop, you and your child will learn how to build a mini wall using real bricks and cement, all in the distinctive style of the Amsterdam School. A playful way to discover architecture and creativity together.
Kente Fugu Festival
On 8/3/2025
Celebrate the vibrant richness of African fashion, music and heritage at the Kente & Fugu Festival. With live performances, fashion shows, dance and traditional food, this event brings the spirit of Ghana to life in the heart of Amsterdam. A joyful celebration of culture and identity.
Course the Writers Behind Amsterdam Street Names
From 8/6/2025 - 8/13/2025
Explore the stories behind Amsterdam’s street names in this literary course. From celebrated writers to forgotten voices, you will discover the lives and work of the authors immortalised across the city. An inspiring journey through Amsterdam, told through the lens of literature.
Course Spinoza: Core Themes of His Thought
From 8/13/2025 - 8/22/2025
Dive into the ideas of one of Amsterdam’s most influential thinkers in this course on Spinoza. Explore why his philosophy on freedom, reason and nature still resonates today. Whether you’re just curious or already philosophically inclined, this is a unique opportunity to truly grasp Spinoza’s key themes.
Eerste Amsterdamse Fiets4daagse
From 8/14/2025 - 8/17/2025
Ready to see Amsterdam from a fresh perspective? During the first ever Amsterdam Fiets4Daagse, hop on your bike and follow surprising routes through the city and surrounding nature. With rest stops, activities and opportunities to meet others along the way, it’s four days of cycling, exploring and enjoying everything the region has to offer.
Grachtenfestival
From 8/15/2025 - 8/24/2025
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Grachtenfestival, where music enthusiasts can enjoy classical performances set against the picturesque backdrop of Amsterdam's canals. Attendees can delight in a diverse lineup of concerts, featuring both emerging talents and renowned musicians, all performing in unique and intimate venues around the city. This festival offers a magical blend of music and scenery, creating an unforgettable cultural experience for visitors.
Amsterdam Canal Festival
From 8/15/2025 - 8/24/2025
Experience the enchanting sounds of the Amsterdam Canal Festival, where classical music performances grace the city's iconic waterways. Attendees will be captivated by talented musicians performing from unique stages on boats and along the canal banks, creating a magical auditory experience that blends culture and scenery. This festival offers a distinct opportunity to appreciate world-class music in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic and picturesque canals.
Grachtenfestival Amsterdam
From 8/15/2025 - 8/24/2025
Let the sounds of classical music guide you through Amsterdam’s most charming corners. Grachtenfestival brings together emerging talent and surprising performances in unique venues, from canal-side mansions to hidden gardens. Expect fresh interpretations, unexpected collaborations and music that moves you in new ways.
Reggae Lake Festival
From 8/16/2025 - 8/17/2025
Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of the Reggae Lake Festival, an event that transforms Gaasperplas Park in Amsterdam into a celebration of reggae music and culture. Attendees can enjoy performances from renowned reggae artists, set against the picturesque backdrop of the lake, creating a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. This festival provides a unique opportunity for music lovers to connect with the positive vibes and community spirit that reggae embodies.
Sail Amsterdam
From 8/20/2025 - 8/24/2025
Sail Amsterdam 2025 marks a grand celebration of the 750th anniversary of the Dutch capital with its 10th edition. This iconic maritime festival welcomes ships, crews, and visitors from across the globe to honor nautical history and cultural diversity. The event promises a vibrant gathering where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect and celebrate. Step aboard and join in the festivities that make waves across the Netherlands and beyond.
Sail 2025
From 8/20/2025 - 8/24/2025
Prepare to be amazed by towering tall ships, maritime traditions and a buzzing waterfront during SAIL. Amsterdam’s harbours turn into a spectacle of sailing races, historic vessels and cultural festivities. Whether you’re watching, joining in or simply soaking up the atmosphere, SAIL is a one-of-a-kind celebration on and by the water.
Pluk de Nacht Filmfestival
From 8/20/2025 - 8/30/2025
Ready for a night of film under the stars? Pluk de Nacht is the open-air film festival for lovers of surprising cinema, cosy blankets and waterfront drinks. From full-length features to quirky shorts, the programme is international, offbeat and refreshingly different from the mainstream. Bring your friends and seize the night together.
Sons of Jumira - Basement Sessions
On 8/22/2025
Step into the groove with Sons of Jumira during an intimate Basement Session. Blending funk, jazz and soul, they bring the stage to life with deep rhythms, improvisation and a warm atmosphere. Perfect for anyone craving a fresh and unexpected live music experience.
Open dag Beurs van Berlage
On 8/23/2025
Curious about what lies behind the iconic walls of the Beurs van Berlage? This open day offers a rare peek behind the scenes. Explore hidden rooms, take in the striking architecture and discover the rich history of this remarkable building. A perfect outing for curious locals and culture lovers alike.
Valtifest
On 8/23/2025
Ready for a festival where anything goes? Valtifest is famous for its bold outfits, eclectic line-up and total freedom. Expect a vibrant explosion of music, performance and creativity where you can fully express yourself. The only rule here is to be yourself.
Hartjesdag
On 8/18/2025
Hartjesdag on the Zeedijk is anything but ordinary. What started as a medieval celebration has become a colourful and extravagant street festival full of costumes, performances and cheerful chaos. Expect an explosion of self-expression, community and creativity in one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Pluk de Nacht Film Festival
From 8/21/2025 - 8/31/2025
A warm summer night, a blanket, and an open sky filled with stories. This outdoor film festival brings together movie lovers for a unique experience under the stars. Expect bold, unexpected films that you won’t easily find in cinemas, plus drinks, food and that special summer magic.
Wine & Design Kas Keerweer
On 8/24/2025
Sip, design and unwind in the middle of a blooming greenhouse. During this creative evening you’ll enjoy a guided painting session with a glass of wine in hand, surrounded by plants and good vibes. No experience needed, just bring your imagination.
A Night at the Oscars: from The Godfather to Titanic
On 8/25/2025
Immerse yourself in the greatest movie music of all time during a spectacular night at the Concertgebouw. From the dramatic sounds of The Godfather to the romantic melodies of Titanic, this concert brings iconic Oscar-winning scores to life with a full orchestra and captivating visuals. A magical night for film and music lovers alike.