Well, in case you didn't know, it's fantastic! Today, we take a delicious deep dive into the delicacies of the Dutch capital – from the deep-fried delights of Amsterdam street food to the heavenly old-school baked classics and everything in between. Here are the 15 best foods to try in Amsterdam.

For the best way to discover these 16 excellent local dishes, book an Amsterdam food tour. You'll get expert insights into the origins and preparation of the city's most famous dishes!

Best 15 foods to try in Amsterdam

1. Dutch pancakes

Known in Amsterdam as Pannenkoeken, Dutch pancakes are served in pretty much every cafe in town. Large and thin and served with tons of butter, they have a melty, gooeyness that makes them pure comfort food.

These bad boys are wonderfully versatile – the Dutch often serve them topped with herring, salmon or other savory delights, but alternately sprinkled with powdered sugar or stroop (a delicious Dutch syrup).

Learn all about the origin of Dutch pancakes and try the best in town with an Amsterdam walking tour with Dutch pancakes lunch.

Better yet, learn how to make your own with a private Dutch pancake class in the home of an Amsterdam native. Talk about authenticity!

2. Poffertjes (mini pancakes)

These marvelous mini morsels are a festive favorite, both during the summer and at Christmas time. Their light spongy texture makes them taste totally different than a regular pancake, while the gooey and warmth on the inside and a pleasant crunch on the outside will send your taste buds into overdrive!

The secret is yeast and buckwheat flour, which gives them the trademark fluffiness, and the fact that they're cooked fast and hot in a cast iron pan.

You'll find Poffertjes in pretty much every Dutch supermarket, but for the real deal visit a local cafe or restaurant. I recommend Poffertjes Albert Cuyp, an old-school street stall specialising in these little beauties.

3. Dutch herring

Okay, now we're into dangerous territory. That's because Dutch herring is without the most divisive dish on the list. This is one Dutch food you either love or hate, and you'll have to try it to find out!

Highly salty and powerful, herring tastes unlike anything else. Although people assume it's served raw, it's not. The flavor comes from the fact that it's kept in brine for up to months, producing a deep, salty, umami flavor and bringing a wonderfully succulent texture.

Dutch herring is generally served in two ways – either cut into pieces and served with onions and pickles or eaten whole in one piece, dangled from above, and devoured in one go. Amsterdammers also eat herring sandwiches called broodjes haring.

4. Kibbeling

Keeping the focus on fish, Kibbeling is one of the most famous street foods in Amsterdam – you'll find it served up in street stalls and eateries all over the city. This traditional Dutch delicacy consists of deep-fried pieces of cod covered in a crispy spiced batter and served with various traditional dipping sauces, usually garlic mayonnaise, remoulade, or tartar sauce.

You'll find some of the best Kibbeling in Amsterdam at the Dappermarkt or in the many fish markets around De 9 Straatjes (the Nine Streets).

5. Bitterballen

Another famous Dutch food that you'll find served by street vendors all over the city, Bitterballen, is a ball-shaped meat croquette that is absolutely out of this world! The creamy, dreamy filling is made from stewed meat that has been thickened by adding a roux.

Generally served with a portion of fries and a dollop of Dutch mustard, Bitterballen is undoubtedly one of the most famous traditional food items you'll find in Amsterdam. You can even find some amazing vegan bitterballen in Amsterdam.

If you want to eat this traditional Dutch food like a local, try a Bitterballen and croquette tasting.

6. Stroopwafels

These are the most iconic Dutch sweet treats – you've most likely tried them before – these irresistible waffles are a must-eat in Amsterdam. Stroopwafels consist of syrupy, buttery cinnamon caramel sandwiched between two wafer-thin waffle layers... yes, it's as good as it sounds!

Translating as 'syrup waffles' in English, you'll find stroopwafels all throughout Amsterdam – in supermarkets, street corners, cafes, restaurants... everywhere.

Want to find the best stroopwafel in Amsterdam? A private food tour with a local is a great way to find the best Dutch foods when you visit Amsterdam. Or you could take our recommendation and head to Rudi's Original Stroopwafels – an old-fashioned street stall that's a stone's throw from the Heineken Experience.

7. Appeltaart (Apple pie)

With a pastry that's lighter, sweeter and crunchier than typical apple pie, Amsterdam's famous baked treat Appeltaart is pure comfort food. Usually served with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, Dutch apple pie is also a lot deeper than American apple pie.

The apple comes typically with a hint of cinnamon, while the apple is slow-baked to soften it but still with a slight firmness. The star of the show, however, is the pastry. It's Crumbly, buttery, with just the right amount of sugar, to die for.

Visit Winkel 43, a vibrant cafe/restaurant in Jordaan, for one of Amsterdam's best slices of homemade apple pie.

8. Kaas (Dutch cheese)

The Netherlands is one of the biggest cheese exporters in the world! Aside from the classics like Gouda and Edam, there are many delicious varieties that you have to sample when in Amsterdam.

Abraham Kef's cheese tasting room is one of the city's best cheese experiences, and if you're into wine, a wine-and-cheese pairing is a must. You'll also find many cheesemongers and cheese shops throughout the city and bars and restaurants that offer cheese platters.

If you want a fully authentic Dutch cheese experience, take a day trip from Amsterdam to the countryside and sample edam and gouda cheeses from local farms.

9. Ossenworst

A Dutch specialty smoked sausage, Ossenworst, was initially made of ox meat but is made from beef nowadays. Subtle spices such as pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and mace bring a wonderful aroma; this sausage is usually sliced and served with pickles, onions, and a generous helping of Dutch mustard. Oh, and remember the beer for good measure!

Head to the ridiculously cool A. van Wees Tasting Locality, where you can try authentic ossenworst and many other traditional Dutch foods served with their snack platter.

10. Oliebollen

A quintessential Dutch dessert, oliebollen is not only one of the best-tasting snacks in Amsterdam, but it's also, without doubt, the one that's the most fun to say. Try saying "Oliebollen" loud and proud without beaming with joy. It's impossible!

Still, these sweet treats don't quite translate as well into English – literally 'oily balls.' Okay, that's enough snickering... despite the name conjuring up images of greasy balls, these decadent Dutch doughnuts are pure indulgent heaven. They are a must-try when visiting Amsterdam: sweet and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and deliciously soft.

You won't have to search far and wide either – almost every bakery sells them, particularly during winter.

11. Stamppot (mashed potatoes)

One of the most popular side dishes you'll find in Amsterdam, stamppot is a dish consisting of mashed potatoes combined with one or more vegetables. Typical vegetables used in stamppot include carrots, onions, sauerkraut, spinach, or turnip greens.

Stamppot is usually served alongside a hearty meat dish, often steak or smoked sausage.

Regarding the best restaurants for this hearty side, The Pantry regularly causes a stamppot stampede with their versions of this traditional Dutch cuisine, including a delicious boerenkool stamppot – kale and mashed potatoes. Delicious!

12. Rijsttafel (rice table)

The influence of Indonesian cuisine in Amsterdam is clear to everyone who visits. There are many Indonesian restaurants throughout the city, and many traditional Indonesian dishes are served in typically Dutch taverns and restaurants. This comes down to the fact that thousands of Indonesians migrated to Amsterdam following WWII, bringing their culture and cuisine.

A collection of small side dishes – like a Dutch table of tapas – Rijsttafel is one of the best-known Indonesian staples. It's also the best way to sample Indonesian food when in Amsterdam.

Long Pura is a famous Indonesian restaurant in Amsterdam where you can order Rijsttafel, among other delicious delicacies. You could also spend an afternoon doing a Food and History Tour, checking out historical local foodie stops in Amsterdam.

13. Patat friet

Amsterdam's version of French fries, patat friet, serves broad, chunky chips deep-fried to perfection. Mayonnaise is typically the dip of choice and often comes served up in its own little ingenious sauce holder within the fries' cardboard cones. You'll also find Dutch fries topped with chopped onion, tomato sauce, and – in the case of the Dutch Indonesian version patatje oorlog – peanut sauce.

Head to Heertje Friet for the best patat friet in the whole city. You'll also find many fantastic patat stands and Dutch fries specialists in and around the Nine Streets.

14. Genever

Amsterdam's favorite drink is a robust and malty spirit from juniper berries. While it's been likened to gin – even picking up the nickname 'the grandfather of gin,' Genever has more of a blended bourbon or scotch malt flavor. If you like your spirits, you have to try this Dutch delight!

Of course, a drink is only as good as the setting in which you drink it. Therefore, head to 't Nieuwe Diep, a quirky hidden gem inside an old pump house. It's a distillery and bar that serves its own brand of genever, which you can enjoy on its tranquil terrace overlooking a pond, fruit trees, and herb garden.

Learn all about genever at the House of Bols tasting experience, where you'll sample this classic Dutch spirit and its history.

15. Beer

Most of the best things to eat in Amsterdam pair perfectly with a tall, frosty one, and for beer drinkers, sampling the local tipple is a must! The Dutch export more beer than Germany and the U.S. combined – the majority comes from big names like Heineken.

Head to the Heineken Experience for a deep dive into the famous Dutch beer. Big-name beers aside, there are also many delicious local craft beers in Amsterdam.

things to do in Groningen province

On a very positive note, as I am currently undertaking a journey towards becoming a vegan, the vast amount of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Groningen was also a very pleasant surprise. Just check out these top 13 vegetarian restaurants in Groningen as well as these top 8 vegan restaurants in Groningen that I've come across. I am telling you, the city caters for every special dietary need! You can enjoy the freshest of ingredients, modern cuisine as well as indulge in pigging out on traditional recipes (if you'll excuse my French).

However, the traditional recipes are certainly worth mentioning because Groningen has one of the most amazing traditional cuisines in the world. I will also share recipes so that you, too, can have a little taste of what Dutch culture and traditional Groningen cuisine is all about. Keep reading to find out more.

Top 10 foodie things to do in Groningen

1) Eat Fresh Seafood

This is no ordinary statement. You can truly indulge in some of the freshest seafood that you'll ever have in your life. The Netherlands in general is known to have amazing seafood because it has an extensive coastline. Still, Groningen is known for having truly fresh fish. I came across vibrant seafood dishes at some of my favourite restaurants to date. So, if you love seafood, you'll find that visiting the below mentioned restaurants are high up the list of top foodie things to in Groningen while you are there.

Have a look at T' Kleine Oestertje and make sure to order the seafood platter – simply amazing and totally fresh seafood. Couldn't get enough. To check out my review of T'Kliene Oestertje, click right here.

You should also definitely visit Brussels Lof and order the grilled turbot. Oh so good! So, if you are mad about fresh seafood, you'll love Groningen. They've got it all.

2) Beer Tasting

While I was touring Groningen, I also took an active part in a beer tasting. The city of Groningen has had an enormous beer tradition for many centuries. Would you believe that at one point there were about 80 breweries in the city? Also, some breweries only operated guest houses for consumption of their own products. Isn't that funny?

Amongst these breweries belonged the Ostrich, 't Haantje, the Golden Oliphant, Waldeck and Barbarossa. The large number of breweries had its origin in the fact that brewing beer was only reserved for brewers in Stad en Ommelanden.

In order to continue that tradition take a chance to enjoy beer tasting, together with great food, in the Harbour Café. During a city boat trip, I had the opportunity to taste 4 special beers while listening to fascinating stories about the beers. After the tasting I felt like a real connoisseur.

3) Foraging workshop

On the list of the top 10 foodie things to do in Groningen, definitely take time to go on a foraging workshop. Absolutely loved it! I learned about wild plants such as wormwood, samphire, sea plantain, sea aster, milkwort, sea rocket and rosehips and all their uses.

You can also check out the Waddensea sushi workshop here, that's also very interesting.  Otherwise, if you are even more curious about local fishing, click here.

4) Get served by a cocktail robot

I kid you not, this is real. If you go to Mr. Mofongo's, you'll be surprised to see that you get served a Dutch and Stormy by a cocktail robot. Delicious! I am pretty sure you'd find this interesting. Therefore, to find out more about it, click right here.

5) Visit Teafabrique, also called De Theefabriek

6) Mustard Soup

7) Poffert

8) Eierbal

9) Bitterballen

While some regard it as a liberal paradise and one of the premier party destinations, the Dutch capital has much more to offer, with a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks to discover and plenty of stunning natural beauty on the city's outskirts.

Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Let's take a virtual wander through the streets of the city known as "the Venice of the North" to break down the best things to do in Amsterdam.

1. Buy an I Amsterdam Card

The I Amsterdam Card is a must-have for tourists visiting Amsterdam. For a fixed price, it offers unlimited access to public transportation, free entry to major attractions, discounts at museums, restaurants, and shops, and a complimentary canal cruise.

Save money, skip queues, and explore Amsterdam hassle-free with the Iamsterdam Card!

Prices range from €60 for 24 hours to €125 for 120 hours per person.

2. Marvel at the Van Gogh Museum

A fascinating glimpse inside the life and work of one of the world's most renowned artists, the Van Gogh Museum is an essential experience for anyone visiting Amsterdam. The museum contains more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters from the great man and various other artists who influenced him; the museum is great for art lovers and the more casually curious visitor.

Keep in mind that you'll need to pre-book tickets online! Better yet, pre-book a private guided museum tour to skip the lines and get an expert's insight into Van Gogh's most iconic masterworks, as well as the lesser-known gems.

3. Be moved by the Anne Frank house

The Anne Frank Museum is the former residence and writer's house of legendary Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Visiting the house is an incredibly moving, unforgettable experience, giving a unique perspective on how the city's Jewish population suffered during the Second World War.

Anne Frank's story is told through an audio tour that helps further immerse you in the house's history. It was a very emotional visit for me, yet it was essential to understand the history of Amsterdam and Europe in general.

Again, like most museums in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House can only be visited by pre-booking a ticket bought online for a specific time slot.

4. Get regal at the Royal Palace Amsterdam

The former home of the Dutch Royal Family, the Royal Palace was also once the city's town hall, and it still hosts many prominent events and is open to visitors throughout the year. If you're a fan of jaw-dropping façades and majestic interiors, it's a must-see – particularly the stunning central hall, with its Ancient Rome-style columns and marble flooring.

Although it's one of Amsterdam's most popular tourist attractions, wandering around the spacious Royal Palace – otherwise known as the Koninklijk Paleis – is quite a tranquil experience – especially in spring or late summer, when the crowds are less intense.

Prebook your Royal Palace tickets with an audio guide for a deeper insight into one of Amsterdam's most iconic historic buildings.

5. Take a canal cruise

An all-inclusive canal cruise should be right towards the top of your list of things to do in Amsterdam. Cruising the canals and taking in the city's beautiful sights is Amsterdam's most popular tourist activity, with an estimated 3 million passengers a year.

The historic canals were formed in the 17th century and today are a UNESCO-listed landmark. You can learn all about the history of the canal ring and stories of all the major cultural attractions in Amsterdam as you pass by while sipping drinks and enjoying snacks as you soak up the city's beauty.

You could also escape the crowds and enjoy a private canal cruise, ideal for those traveling as a couple.

6. Discover national history at the Dutch Resistance Museum

One of Amsterdam's most increasingly popular attractions, the Dutch Resistance Museum – also known as Verzetsmuseum – tells the story of how the Dutch resisted the Nazi occupation during World War II. It recounts the horrors of life in Amsterdam under the Nazis and the ingenious efforts to break free from the oppressors – from underground newspapers and strikes to creating secret hideouts for those persecuted.

The Resistance Museum comes with archive film and audio that evoke the hopes and fears of the Dutch population at the time and many other interactive elements that make it a highly immersive historical experience.

7. Get cultural at the Rembrandt House Museum

A celebration of one of the most famous Dutch painters, the Rembrandt House Museum is a restored 17th-century house that reconstructs Rembrandt's rooms and art workshop.

Just like the Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt House is an art lover's dream, with selections of some of Rembrandt's best works as well as many pieces from other artists who the Dutch master influenced.

Be sure to pre-book your Rembrandt House Museum tickets, including a free audio guide. Remember that the museum is set over four stories, and there is no lift between floors, so the museum might not be fully accessible for some visitors.

8. Explore the Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam has incredible art galleries and museums, and the Rijksmuseum is one of the best. While the Van Gogh and Rembrandt museums focus on those specific masters, the Rijksmuseum showcases the work of many of the best painters in the Golden Age of Dutch art, including Vermeer, Steen, Asselijn and Rembrandt.

The Rijksmuseum has recently been the art world's focus with the announcement of the historic Vermeer Exhibition, the largest exhibition of the artist behind one of the world's most famous paintings, 'Girl With a Pearl Earring.' Although the exhibition is completely sold out, you'll be able to see some incredible works of art in the museum's permanent collection.

Buy your Rijksmuseum tickets ahead of time to guarantee your spot at this beautiful Amsterdam art gallery.

9. Get spooked at the Amsterdam Dungeons

If you're into fun interactive experiences, you can't get much better than the Amsterdam Dungeons. A deliciously dark journey through 500 years of history, the Amsterdam Dungeons uses live actors, make-up, and special effects to tell the chilling story of life and death in the Dutch capital.

Tales of torture, plagues, the Spanish Inquisition, and insights into the origins of the Grim Reaper myth are sure to keep you gripped from beginning to end. This is the ideal Amsterdam activity if you're into weird and wonderful tales and horrible histories. It's also great for families with older kids, as there's so much fun! Of course, if you're squeamish, you should miss this one.

Don't forget to pre-book your Amsterdam Dungeon tickets to save time at the turnstiles.

10. Go deep at the NEMO Science Museum

The biggest and best science museum in the Netherlands, the NEMO Science Museum, looks like a giant green ship rising out of the ocean at Amsterdam's dock —the iconic exterior hints at the creative activities inside, which will fascinate visitors of all ages.

The interactive nature of Amsterdam's premier science museum makes it particularly appealing for kids – especially those ages six to twelve. Those visiting the museum should also check out the rooftop terrace with its magnificent city center views.

Overall, it is a fantastic experience, particularly for families visiting Amsterdam. My daughter loved this venue and pleaded to go back the next day but we ran out of time!

Remember to pre-book your tickets for the NEMO Science Museum!

11. Take in the beauty of Westerkerk

This Renaissance-style church is the biggest in Amsterdam and a must-see for those looking for beautiful buildings and exciting architecture in Amsterdam. Located next to the Anne Frank Museum, Westerkerk – which means 'West Church' in Dutch – was built in the 17th century and has a stunning ornate interior. You'll even have the chance to learn about the church's history and the surrounding area as you take in the sumptuous visuals.

If you're brave enough, climb to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of Amsterdam and its outskirts – it's one of the best views in the city!

12. Stedelijk museum

Another of Amsterdam's long line of impressive art museums, the Stedelijk Museum is regarded as the most important museum of modern and contemporary art and design in the whole of the Netherlands.

With works by the likes of Dumas, Matisse, Chagall, Picasso, and Malevich, as well as 20th-century Dutch artists such as Rietveld and Mondrian, the Stedelijk showcases art that is rebellious, imaginative, humorous and inspirational.

Get your Stedelijk museum ticket ahead of time with priority access, or combine the entry ticket with a 1-hour canal cruise to make the most of your time in Museumplein.

13. Relax at the Hortus Botanicus

With all the incredible museums, galleries, and cultural locations in and around the city, it's essential to catch a little respite. Luckily, there are places like the Hortus Botanicus in central Amsterdam.

Amsterdam's botanical gardens are full of various weird and wonderful plant species and prove to be the perfect inner-city nature escape for those tired of the busy city center streets. This is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, giving it an extra historical context.

Aside from all the different plant species, the Amsterdam Hortus Botanicus also contains a butterfly house. This zoological museum showcases microorganisms and a planetarium, where you can enjoy a virtual, interactive solar system tour.

14. Escape the hustle at Vondelpark

Every good city has a beautiful park, and Amsterdam's is as good as it gets. The largest park in Amsterdam and the most famous in the country, Vondelpark is a sprawling 47-hectare park in the city's center with lakes, lawns, water features, and a beautiful rose garden.

With a beautiful atmosphere, particularly during summer, Vondelpark is a trendy hangout for locals and visitors alike. If you're looking for the perfect picnic spot between trips to Amsterdam's top tourist attractions, this is the place!

Experience the tranquillity of Vondelpark as part of a guided walking tour of Amsterdam.

15. Get merry at the Heineken Experience

Beer lovers rejoice! Amsterdam is home to one of the world's most popular beers, and visitors can discover its origins and learn everything about how it's made with an interactive tour at the Heineken Experience.

As well as discovering the story of the first Heineken brewery and learning everything about the beer and its history, you'll get to whet your whistle at the tasting room finale. You'll even have the chance to show your bar skills with the Pour the perfect pint challenge!

Overall, it's great fun – especially with a big group. If you're keen to make it a centerpiece to your Amsterdam visit and go all out... get a guided Heineken Experience VIP Tour Ticket and make it all the more memorable!

16. Hit the heights at the A'DAM LOOKOUT and THIS IS HOLLAND

A 22-story, 80-meter-high observation deck with the best views of Amsterdam, the A’DAM LOOKOUT is a great way to cap off a visit to Amsterdam. You'll learn about the history of Amsterdam through an interactive exhibition while you make your way up to the top-floor lookout. You'll find Europe's highest swing, which dangles 100 meters above the ground. Dare to have a go?

The adrenaline rush doesn't end there, though. At THIS IS HOLLAND you'll find four different attractions, including a 5D flight simulator that takes you for a bird's eye tour of the whole city of Amsterdam.

Experience the thrills of these two attractions by pre-booking A'DAM LOOKOUT and THIS IS HOLLAND tickets.

17. Our Lord in the Attic Museum

Down an unassuming street near the Amsterdam docks is a hidden gem that tells just one of the many incredible stories in the city's history. The ordinary façade of the building doesn't give much away, yet in the attic of this incredible museum you'll find a full-size hidden church, built during the years when practicing Catholicism in public was forbidden.

A free audio guide at the Our Lord in the Attic Museum will help to immerse you in the story of the Protestant and Catholic divide in the city. It's a fascinating museum.

18. Awaken the senses at the floating flower market

For a quintessential Dutch experience, a visit to the world's only floating flower market is a must. Located onboard the houseboats that line the picturesque Amstel riverside, the Bloemensingel dates back to 1862 and sells all kinds of typical Dutch flowers, including the famous tulips.

Many of the flowers at the market are approved for import to other countries, meaning visitors can buy perfect sensory souvenirs to take home.

19. Go shopping in the Nine Streets

The Nine Streets, or De Negen Straatjes, is a mini-neighborhood located in the center of the Jordaan canal belt and consists of a network of narrow cobblestone streets, each with its unique charm. With independent boutiques, vintage stores, artisanal cafes, and hip restaurants, Amsterdam's coolest shopping district is the perfect place to pick up a handmade souvenir when visiting the Dutch capital.

Explore the Jordaan neighborhood and the Nine Streets as part of an Amsterdam walking tour, learning about the history of the hidden courtyards and cobbled streets of one of Amsterdam's most charming areas.

20. Visit the National Monument

Located in the city's center in Dam Square, the National Monument is a 22-meter-high stone cenotaph that pays tribute to the people who lost their lives during World War II. It's the centerpiece of Dam Square, which is like the heartbeat of Amsterdam.

Visit the National Monument as part of a private walking tour in Amsterdam and dive deeper into the history of Amsterdam in the 20th century, gaining a better understanding and perspective of life for those before, during, and after World War II.

21. Take a tour of the world-famous home of Ajax Football Club

A fantastic experience for lovers of the beautiful game, a trip to the home of Ajax Football Club gives you behind-the-scenes access to one of the most revered teams in Europe.

You'll get to enjoy pitch-side views, a trip to the dressing room and boardroom, plus you'll be entertained with tales of the history of Ajax – including the most famous player, the legendary Johan Cruijff (whom the stadium is named after), as well as a complimentary drink and souvenir scarf.

Book your VIP tour of the Ajax Amsterdam football stadium before you arrive, and skip the crowds.

22. Escape to the picturesque outskirts of Amsterdam

While there's so much to see and do within the city limits, many people overlook the beauty of the surrounding areas of Amsterdam. A full-day tour through the countryside allows you to fully immerse yourself in Dutch culture, going beyond the regular tourist experience to discover what local life is like in the Netherlands.

When escaping to the capital's outskirts, rural windmills, cheese factories, antique clog shops, picturesque villages, and stunning waterways are just some things to expect. A guided day-trip bus tour offers an unforgettable experience when visiting Amsterdam.

City attractions might be why you come to Amsterdam, but a countryside visit could well end up providing your trip's most memorable moments.

23. Take a stroll along the Damrak

When you think of Amsterdam, you think of the Damrak. You may not realize you do... but trust me. You know that image of Amsterdam, with the line of pretty and colorful buildings that line the canals? That's the Damrak. Running between the central station and the Dam Square, in the very center of the city, this gorgeous avenue is Amsterdam at its most iconic.

You'll usually find the Damrak all hustle and bustle – it's the tourist center of Amsterdam, with all manner of souvenir shops, fast food stops, and cafes dotted along the way. Still, strolling along this pretty avenue can be a relaxing experience, particularly in the autumn/fall, when the colors are vivid and the crowds are less dense.

The Damrak is one of the first ports of call during a small group walking tour in Amsterdam – an ideal place to start your adventure through this enthralling city.

24. See the sunset at Pllek

Okay, so Amsterdam isn't the place to go for a beach holiday. That said, there's a great urban beach in the city where many locals and visitors hang out, and it's the perfect place to watch the sun go down, particularly in the summer.

Pllek may not be suitable for swimming, but this is the city's number one place when it comes to waterside hang-out spots. Beach parties with top DJs, group yoga sessions, outdoor cinema screenings, and live concerts are just some of the activities you'll find here.

Yes, it can be crowded during the summer, but if a party atmosphere is what you're looking for, it's a place you should head to when visiting Amsterdam.

25. Flip the script at the Upside Down Museum

Hands down, Amsterdam's quirkiest museum, the Upside Down Museum, is billed as one of Europe's most popular interactive social-media museums. The crazy optical illusions and incredible art-themed rooms create a highly photogenic experience – hence the 'social media friendly' tag. One thing's for sure... you won't be boring anyone with vacation snaps from this place!

The Upside Down takes the museum experience to a new place, making it an ideal alternative to Amsterdam's many history museums and art galleries. Pre-order your tickets for the Upside Down Museum and save time at the turnstiles, giving you more time to get lost in the weird and wonderful world of this fun, original museum.

26. Take an Amsterdam bike tour

The Dutch are Europe's undisputed bike kings and queens – if we all cycled like them, global emissions would drop nearly 700 million tonnes. So, it's no surprise that one of the best ways to experience the Dutch capital is on two wheels.

Experience this wondrous city's highlights and hidden gems with an Amsterdam bike tour. You'll cover much more ground than you ever could on foot with a personalized experience that gives you more of an immersive insight into Amsterdam's history and major landmarks.

Would you like to explore more of the Netherlands? Check out my foodie guide to Groningen, where I tasted Mustard Soup and Poffert for the first time!