Amsterdam Experience
Next to the variety of Dutch Blockchain Week 2025 events, we advise to explore the city of Amsterdam and other
interesting places close to the capital. From tech-minded experiences to cultural gems and exclusive nightlife,
there’s something for everyone. Here are our tips on how to get around and what to visit
Getting around in Amsterdam
Rent a Bike & Explore Amsterdam Like a Local
The best way to experience Amsterdam is by bike! Rent one and cycle through scenic canals, hidden courtyards, and lively neighborhoods like De Pijp or Jordaan.
https://www.macbike.nl / https://www.yellowbike.nl/ / https://swapfiets.nl/amsterdam and many more providers
Rent a Boat & Explore the Canals Like a Local
Skip the tourist-packed canal cruises and rent your own boat! Whether you go for an electric sloop or a luxury private tour, it’s one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s famous waterways.
https://www.boaty.nl / https://mokumboot.nl/ and many more providers
Nice neighborhoods and parks
De 9 Straatjes – Boutique Shopping & Charming Streets
One of Amsterdam’s most picturesque areas, the 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) is a collection of small canalside streets filled with boutique shops, vintage stores, cafés, and local fashion brands. A great place to stroll and soak in the Amsterdam charm.
https://www.de9straatjes.nl
De Pijp – Amsterdam’s Trendy & Multicultural District
A vibrant neighborhood known for its Albert Cuyp Market, independent coffee shops, bars, and great international cuisine. Home to many young creatives and one of the best food scenes in the city.
https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/about-amsterdam/amsterdam-neighbourhoods/de-pijp
De Jordaan – Amsterdam’s Most Charming Neighborhood
De Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque and historic districts, known for its narrow canals, independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and rich history. Once a working-class area, it has transformed into a vibrant hub for artists, musicians, and young professionals while maintaining its old Amsterdam charm.
https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/about-amsterdam/amsterdam-neighbourhoods/jordaan
Vondelpark
Relax in Amsterdam’s largest city park, a popular spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and open-air concerts.
Vondelpark
NDSM Wharf – Amsterdam’s Creative Hub
A former shipyard turned into a vibrant cultural hotspot, NDSM is filled with street art, industrial-chic cafés, and alternative nightlife. Take the free ferry from Central Station!
https://www.ndsm.nl
Amsterdamse Bos – A Forest Escape Within the City
A massive green space with biking trails, canoeing, a goat farm, and even a Japanese cherry blossom garden in spring. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
https://www.amsterdamsebos.nl
Nightlife
Leidseplein – The Mainstream Party Hub
- Perfect for clubbing and live music. Big clubs like Melkweg & Paradiso are here, along with lively bars.
- Best for: Tourists, mainstream clubbing, live music.
- https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/about-amsterdam/amsterdam-neighbourhoods/leidseplein
Rembrandtplein – Cocktail Bars & Nightclubs
- A mix of touristy clubs, stylish cocktail bars, and Irish pubs. Home to Escape (one of Amsterdam’s biggest clubs) and Air.
- Best for: Mainstream clubbing, cocktails, bar hopping.
- https://www.rembrandtplein.amsterdam
De Pijp – Hipster Bars & Hidden Gems
- A local favorite with trendy bars, wine cafés, and hidden speakeasies. Try Door 74 for a top-tier cocktail experience.
- Best for: Trendy, relaxed nights, craft cocktails.
- https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/about-amsterdam/amsterdam-neighbourhoods/de-pijp
Jordaan – Cozy Brown Cafés & Live Music
- Amsterdam’s artsy district with historic brown cafés, live jazz bars, and a relaxed but social vibe. Try Café de Prins or Café Nol for classic Amsterdam vibes.
- Best for: Local experience, live music, casual drinks.
- https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/about-amsterdam/amsterdam-neighbourhoods/jordaan
NDSM – Underground & Alternative Scene
- A former shipyard turned into a nightlife and arts hub. Expect warehouse raves, techno clubs, and creative events at places like Noorderlicht and Pllek.
- Best for: Alternative, underground music, industrial vibe.
- https://www.ndsm.nl
Experiences & Museums
Rijksmuseum Visit
Explore the Netherlands’ premier art museum, housing masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Rijksmuseum
STRAAT Museum (Street Art & NFT Gallery)
Explore one of the world’s largest street art museums, featuring murals by global artists. The museum has a growing digital art section, including NFT exhibitions.
https://straatmuseum.com
Van Gogh Museum
Discover the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and drawings, offering insight into his life and artistic evolution.
Van Gogh Museum
Canal Cruise
Experience Amsterdam’s iconic canals with a guided boat tour, providing unique perspectives of the city’s historic architecture and vibrant neighborhoods.
Canal Cruises
Heineken Experience
Dive into the history of one of the world’s most famous breweries with interactive exhibits and tastings at the original Heineken brewery.
Heineken Experience
Anne Frank House
Visit the preserved hiding place of Anne Frank, now a poignant museum dedicated to her life and the history of World War II.
Anne Frank House
A’DAM Lookout
Enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam from this observation deck, which also features a thrilling ‘Over the Edge’ swing for adventurous visitors.
A’DAM Lookout
Close to Amsterdam
Zandvoort Beach – Amsterdam’s Seaside Escape
Just 30 minutes from Amsterdam, Zandvoort offers a long sandy beach, trendy beach clubs, and watersports like surfing and kiteboarding.
https://www.visitzandvoort.com
Haarlem – The Mini Amsterdam Without the Crowds
A charming historic city just 15 minutes from Amsterdam, Haarlem has beautiful canals, boutique shopping, and the famous Grote Markt square.
https://www.visithaarlem.com
The Windmills of Zaanse Schans
Experience a traditional Dutch village with working windmills, cheese-making, and wooden shoe crafting. A must-visit for first-time travelers.
https://www.dezaanseschans.nl
Aalsmeer Flower Auction – The Largest in the World
Witness the world’s biggest flower auction, where millions of flowers are traded daily in a high-tech bidding system. Best to visit early in the morning.
https://www.royalfloraholland.com
Muiderslot Castle – A Fairytale Fortress
A stunning medieval castle just outside Amsterdam with a moat, knights’ hall, and beautiful gardens. Take a boat or bike from Amsterdam to get there.
https://www.muiderslot.nl
