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!
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.
Photo Credit: Alf van Beem
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.
50 years of Feminist Film Collective Cinemien
From 10/27/2024 - 10/30/2025
Celebrate 50 years of the feminist film collective Cinemien with a special program showcasing historical and contemporary films about gender equality. This event includes a lecture and film screening, offering a deep dive into important topics around feminism and gender equality through the lens of cinema. Join us for a thought-provoking evening that honors the collective's pioneering role in the film industry.
Kiefer is a pianist and producer. He began playing the piano when he was around age six. Kiefer is a Grammy Award winner; the award came from his work on Anderson Park's album Ventura, which won best R&B album at the 2020 Grammy Awards.
Join Herman van Veen in a celebration of his 80th birthday, where music, storytelling, and reflection on life take center stage. This special event brings together cherished moments, joy, and a deep connection to time and creativity. It’s an invitation to celebrate the present and look forward with gratitude.
A storyteller is struggling to come up with a plot when an unexpected helper, Robokop, enters the scene. This machine knows all the storyteller’s thoughts, but soon becomes impossible to shake off. In this playful and thought-provoking performance, creativity and control are challenged, as music and storytelling weave together in a tale about finding freedom in a world of ideas.
Alex Warren is a singer-songwriter and social media personality known for his heartfelt pop music and viral success on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. His music blends emotional storytelling with polished production, drawing comparisons to artists like Lewis Capaldi and Tate McRae. With an authentic connection to his audience, he continues to grow as both a musician and digital creator.
Warhaus returns with Karaoke Moon, an album that surprises and captivates from the very first track. Maarten Devoldere’s signature voice takes the lead in a bold new direction, mixing sultry melodies with reflective lyrics. Experience this fresh work live, as the band unveils their latest creations in a captivating performance.
The Music of Harry Potter is a live concert experience featuring the iconic scores from the Harry Potter films. This orchestral performance, often conducted by renowned composers, brings to life the magical melodies composed by John Williams and others, enchanting audiences with the beloved themes from the globally acclaimed movie series.
Tulip Festival Amsterdam invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Dutch tulips. Discover the breathtaking beauty of these iconic flowers across Amsterdam and its surrounding areas. Experience the most stunning flower fields and events in Holland, and make the most of your visit to this floral celebration.
Limp Bizkit, a rap rock band from Florida, has been nominated for Grammy Awards and sold 40 million records globally. With singles garnering over 200 millions streams individually like, “Break Stuff,” “Rollin’,” “Take A Look Around,” and “Behind Blue Eyes,” they have almost nine million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Celebrate five decades of music with Paul Carrack as he embarks on the How Long 50th Anniversary Tour. Experience timeless hits like "How Long," "Tempted," and "The Living Years" in a captivating performance that reflects his extraordinary career. This concert promises to be a musical journey through Carrack’s legacy of iconic songs.
Symphony of Magic – The Music of Harry Potter Live
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies that have defined a generation of wizarding adventures. Experience the magic as a full orchestra and choir bring these iconic compositions to life, capturing the essence of friendship, bravery, and wonder. A spellbinding musical journey awaits, celebrating the timeless scores that have become synonymous with the wizarding world.
Discover the art of pottery by crafting your own small flowerpot inspired by unique architectural styles. Begin with a museum visit to gather inspiration, then design and assemble your creation under expert guidance. After the workshop, your piece will be glazed and fired, ready for collection in four weeks.
An energetic clash of creativity where artists transform blank canvases into masterpieces within minutes. Watch live as ideas take shape through bold strokes and dynamic techniques. The audience decides the winner, making every moment filled with excitement and artistic passion.
Paul Haenen & Dammie van Geest: Optimisme Kun Je Leren
On 3/17/2025
A delightful performance blending humor and warmth, featuring beloved characters who offer life insights with a touch of optimism. Through engaging interactions and timely themes, the show provides a refreshing pause from the hectic pace of daily life. Audiences can expect an evening filled with laughter, reflection, and a renewed sense of hope.
Step aboard a luxurious cruise where hidden motives and dark secrets intertwine. As night falls, a mysterious death disrupts the voyage, turning passengers into suspects. Prepare for a thrilling journey filled with suspense, passion, and unexpected twists.
Experience a diverse selection of LGBTQ+ films, documentaries, and shorts that delve into various aspects of queer life. Engage with thought-provoking stories and participate in enriching discussions that challenge perspectives. An inclusive cinematic journey awaits, celebrating the richness of LGBTQ+ experiences.
Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of jazz, featuring renowned musicians, emerging talents, and unexpected collaborations. Experience a dynamic program that spans various styles and genres, culminating in an energetic afterparty. Set in the heart of Amsterdam's Indische Buurt, this event promises an unforgettable musical journey.
Experience an electrifying evening as a renowned rock musician brings his acclaimed 'Blue Electric Light Tour' to Amsterdam. Celebrating his 12th studio album, praised for its fusion of rock, funk, and soul, the performance promises a dynamic showcase of new tracks alongside classic hits. Join fellow music enthusiasts for a night of unforgettable energy and artistry.
Immerse yourself in the captivating fusion of dance and film at Cinedans Fest, where audiences gather to explore innovative works that celebrate movement on screen. Attendees can enjoy a diverse lineup of dance films, documentaries, and interactive installations that highlight the artistry and creativity of choreographers and filmmakers. This unique festival offers a rich cultural experience, bringing together the worlds of cinema and dance in an inspiring and dynamic setting.
The Amsterdam Wine Festival is a must-visit event for wine enthusiasts around the world. With an anticipated attendance of over 10,000 visitors, this festival offers a delightful experience featuring a wide selection of wines, delicious food pairings, live music, and interactive workshops. Whether you are a novice or a connoisseur, this event promises a weekend filled with exquisite flavors and unforgettable memories in the charming city of Amsterdam.
Experience an evening of diverse performances, including storytelling, music, and spoken word, complemented by a delightful meal. The event features a captivating exploration of cultural identity, inviting audiences to reflect on personal heritage. Join for an immersive blend of art and cuisine that promises both entertainment and introspection
Gregory Porter is a singer, songwriter and actor who has won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album with "Liquid Spirit" and "Take Me to the Alley." His most loved singles include "Dry Bones," "Hey Laura," and "L-O-V-E."
Experience an unparalleled indoor festival featuring six areas dedicated to drum & bass, including DJs, live acts, cinema, expo, and a silent disco. Prepare for an unforgettable night filled with dynamic performances and immersive experiences.
Step into the world of a traveling freak circus where performers clash, yet cannot live without each other. This high-energy show mixes breaking, urban sports, and circus acts, creating explosive moments and unexpected combinations. Watch as the performers push their limits, challenge one another, and prove that in the end, the show must go on.
Immerse yourself in the captivating worlds of iconic films through their unforgettable scores. From the adventurous themes of Back to the Future and E.T. to the poignant violin solo of Schindler’s List, this performance offers a rich tapestry of cinematic music. Experience a morning filled with emotion and nostalgia as the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra brings these masterpieces to life.
Participants will immerse themselves in an intimate digital exploration of The Van Gogh Museum's vast multivariate collection. This virtual foray permits resolution into amazing artworks, comparisons between processes, and resonant insight into Vincent, along with revealing the inherent distinctions across other globalist repositories.
The world's premier and most explosive wrestling organization, the global phenomenon WWE is the largest wrestling corporation in the world, hosting more than 500 events per year.
Tomorrow X Together, commonly known as TXT, is a South Korean boy group formed by Big Hit Entertainment in 2019. The group quickly rose to fame with their fresh sound, impressive performances, and youthful energy. TXT is known for their storytelling through music, blending various genres to create a unique and engaging discography.
Discover the imaginative world of the Kaboom Animation Festival, where creativity and innovation in animation take center stage. Attendees can explore an array of dynamic screenings, workshops, and panels that highlight the diverse art of animation from around the globe. This festival offers an inspiring platform for both creators and enthusiasts to celebrate the storytelling power of animated films.
Join the Amsterdam Coffee Festival, an event that brings together coffee lovers and industry professionals for a dynamic celebration of all things coffee. Attendees can explore a variety of tastings, brewing demonstrations, and engaging workshops that highlight innovative techniques and traditional methods. With a lively atmosphere featuring live music and artistic displays, the festival offers a rich sensory experience for anyone passionate about coffee culture.
Escape to the cultural hub of Amsterdam for the annual Spanish Film Festival, a celebration of all things Spanish cinema. With a lineup of critically acclaimed films, exciting premieres, and engaging discussions with filmmakers, attendees are immersed in the vibrant world of Spanish storytelling. Featuring tapas tastings, flamenco performances, and art exhibitions, this event promises a delightful fusion of film and cultural experiences. Whether you're a cinephile or simply seeking a taste of Spain, this festival is a must-visit for film enthusiasts worldwide.
Immerse yourself in the diverse world of LGBTQ+ cinema at the Roze Filmdagen Film Festival, where storytelling and representation flourish on the big screen. Attendees are invited to explore a carefully curated selection of films that span genres and cultures, each offering unique perspectives and compelling narratives. Throughout the festival, cinephiles can engage in thoughtful discussions and connect with filmmakers and fellow enthusiasts, celebrating the power of film to inspire and unite communities.
Jacqueline Novak is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, and author of her 2016 memoir "How to Weep in Public." Her Off-Broadway show, Get On Your Knees, became the Critic's Pick for the New York Times and she earned a nomination at the 2020 Drama Desk Awards for it.
David Cross is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, director and producer. He is best known for his lead role as Tobias Fünke in the television series Arrested Development. He has also appeared in films such as Men in Black II, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and Alvin and the Chipmunks. He is known for his unique brand of observational comedy, which often includes a mix of sarcasm and satire.
A theatrical performance that delves into Amsterdam's housing history, exploring the journey from old neighborhoods to modern developments. Through storytelling and music, it reflects on urban transformation and the essence of community. Audiences are invited to experience a narrative that intertwines personal tales with the city's evolving landscape.
An event dedicated to reconciliation, encouraging individuals to mend broken relationships through gestures like messages, flowers, or conversations over coffee. Attendees can engage with inspiring stories, write letters, or consult 'reconciliation coaches' for guidance. A day fostering connection and understanding within the community.
An in-depth look at the housing crisis, from vacant buildings to rising land speculation. Through film and discussion, this event explores decades of urban resistance and the fight for affordable living. A compelling reflection on Amsterdam’s ongoing housing struggles.
In this engaging mini-musical, two friends navigate the complexities of their relationship through harmonious duets, rap numbers, and heartfelt solos. As one seeks to reconnect and the other contemplates ending the friendship, their dynamic performances explore the multifaceted nature of companionship. Audiences are invited to reflect on the bonds that tie us together and the challenges that can pull us apart.
David Gray is a Grammy-nominated rock singer-songwriter from England. His album White Ladder became the fifth best-selling album of the 2000s and also the tenth best-selling of the 21st century, both within the UK. His hit singles include "Babylon," "The One I Love" and "Please Forgive Me."
Lewis Kevin Celestin, also known as Kaytranada, is a DJ and record producer. He was using the name Kaytradamous as, at the time, he released a series of mix tapes, remixes, and original songs in 2010, which landed him in the limelight.
