# Amsterdam, from the bow URL: https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam Updated: 2026-11-03 Language: en > Amsterdam tips from your hosts on KNSM Island: canal boats, swimming from the boat, neighbourhoods, museums and day trips. Central Station is 14 min by bike. City guide Our favourite ways to spend a day in Amsterdam, from a swim off the quay to a captain steering you through the canals. Every travel time is door to door from Kadans, the houseboat where your [Boatsuite](https://amsterdambb.com/en/the-boatsuite) is: Central Station is 14 minutes by bike, the Rijksmuseum 27 minutes by tram 1. Updated 3 November 2026 · By Renske and Tim, your hosts on Kadans ![Amsterdam canal houses and houseboats at golden hour](https://amsterdambb.com/img/amsterdam-canal-houses-houseboats-golden-hour.jpg) Jump to a topic Our map [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Amsterdam’s highlights Our own map with the places guests ask us about most. Tap a number for directions. Your Boatsuite is on the right, on KNSM Island. **** 1 · Sights **Anne Frank House** Book weeks ahead [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Anne+Frank+House,+Amsterdam) **** 2 · Sights **Van Gogh Museum** Museumplein [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Van+Gogh+Museum,+Amsterdam) **** 3 · Sights **Rijksmuseum** Tram 1, no change [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Rijksmuseum,+Amsterdam) **** 4 · Sights **NEMO Science Museum** Free roof terrace [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=NEMO+Science+Museum,+Amsterdam) **** 5 · Sights **Stedelijk Museum** Modern art [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Stedelijk+Museum,+Amsterdam) **** 6 · Sights **Wereldmuseum Amsterdam** World cultures [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Wereldmuseum+Amsterdam,+Amsterdam) **** 7 · Sights **Madame Tussauds** On Dam Square [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Madame+Tussauds,+Amsterdam) **** 8 · Sights **Heineken Experience** Just south of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Heineken+Experience,+Amsterdam) **** 9 · Sights **ARTIS Zoo** Tram 1, no change [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=ARTIS+Zoo,+Amsterdam) **** 10 · Sights **Fabrique des Lumières** Westergas, west of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Fabrique+des+Lumi%C3%A8res,+Amsterdam) **** 11 · Sights **A’DAM Lookout** Free ferry F3 from Central Station [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=A%27DAM+Lookout,+Amsterdam) **** 12 · Sights **Foodhallen** West of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Foodhallen,+Amsterdam) **** 13 · Sights **Moco Museum** Museumplein [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Moco+Museum,+Amsterdam) **** 14 · Sights **Het Scheepvaartmuseum** Maritime history [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Het+Scheepvaartmuseum,+Amsterdam) **** 15 · Shopping and areas **Kalverstraat** Shopping street [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kalverstraat,+Amsterdam) **** 16 · Shopping and areas **P.C. Hooftstraat** Luxury shopping [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=P.C.+Hooftstraat,+Amsterdam) **** 17 · Shopping and areas **Leidsestraat** From Spui to Leidseplein [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Leidsestraat,+Amsterdam) **** 18 · Shopping and areas **The Nine Streets** Boutiques along the canals [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Nine+Streets,+Amsterdam) **** 19 · Shopping and areas **Albert Cuyp Market** De Pijp, south of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Albert+Cuyp+Market,+Amsterdam) **** 20 · Shopping and areas **Jordaan & Noordermarkt** Saturday market [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Jordaan+and+Noordermarkt,+Amsterdam) **** 21 · Shopping and areas **Waterlooplein** Flea market [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Waterlooplein,+Amsterdam) **** 22 · Shopping and areas **Vondelpark** West of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Vondelpark,+Amsterdam) **** 23 · Shopping and areas **NDSM** Free ferry F4, north of the map [Open in Google Maps ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=NDSM,+Amsterdam) ### Sights 1. [Anne Frank House](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Anne+Frank+House,+Amsterdam) Book weeks ahead 2. [Van Gogh Museum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Van+Gogh+Museum,+Amsterdam) Museumplein 3. [Rijksmuseum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Rijksmuseum,+Amsterdam) Tram 1, no change 4. [NEMO Science Museum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=NEMO+Science+Museum,+Amsterdam) Free roof terrace 5. [Stedelijk Museum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Stedelijk+Museum,+Amsterdam) Modern art 6. [Wereldmuseum Amsterdam](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Wereldmuseum+Amsterdam,+Amsterdam) World cultures 7. [Madame Tussauds](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Madame+Tussauds,+Amsterdam) On Dam Square 8. [Heineken Experience](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Heineken+Experience,+Amsterdam) Just south of the map 9. [ARTIS Zoo](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=ARTIS+Zoo,+Amsterdam) Tram 1, no change 10. [Fabrique des Lumières](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Fabrique+des+Lumi%C3%A8res,+Amsterdam) Westergas, west of the map 11. [A’DAM Lookout](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=A%27DAM+Lookout,+Amsterdam) Free ferry F3 from Central Station 12. [Foodhallen](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Foodhallen,+Amsterdam) West of the map 13. [Moco Museum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Moco+Museum,+Amsterdam) Museumplein 14. [Het Scheepvaartmuseum](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Het+Scheepvaartmuseum,+Amsterdam) Maritime history ### Shopping and areas 1. [Kalverstraat](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Kalverstraat,+Amsterdam) Shopping street 2. [P.C. Hooftstraat](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=P.C.+Hooftstraat,+Amsterdam) Luxury shopping 3. [Leidsestraat](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Leidsestraat,+Amsterdam) From Spui to Leidseplein 4. [The Nine Streets](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=The+Nine+Streets,+Amsterdam) Boutiques along the canals 5. [Albert Cuyp Market](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Albert+Cuyp+Market,+Amsterdam) De Pijp, south of the map 6. [Jordaan & Noordermarkt](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Jordaan+and+Noordermarkt,+Amsterdam) Saturday market 7. [Waterlooplein](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Waterlooplein,+Amsterdam) Flea market 8. [Vondelpark](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Vondelpark,+Amsterdam) West of the map 9. [NDSM](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=NDSM,+Amsterdam) Free ferry F4, north of the map Arrows on the edge point to places just off the map. Our number one tip [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Amsterdam by boat You are sleeping on a ship, so you already know: from the water, Amsterdam is a different city. Quieter, greener, full of details you miss from the street. Here are three ways to get out there. ![An open boat with a captain on an Amsterdam canal in autumn](https://amsterdambb.com/img/open-boat-tour-with-captain-amsterdam-canal.jpg) ![Friends skippering a small self-drive boat on an Amsterdam canal at golden hour](https://amsterdambb.com/img/self-drive-boat-amsterdam-canal.jpg) With a captain ### Open boat, captain as your guide Climb into a low open boat and let a local skipper do the steering and the storytelling. You glide under bridges, past leaning gables and houseboats, and hear the stories behind them. **Best for:** first-timers and anyone who wants the stories behind the city - **Duration**: About 1 hour - **From**: €19.40 per person (Flagship Luxury Cruise) - **Departs**: Central Station, the Anne Frank House or the Rijksmuseum - **Get there**: Bike 14 min, or bus 43 / tram 26 to Central Station - **Book with**: [Mokumboot](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) or [Flagship Amsterdam](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) **Our tip:** Do this on your first day. Afterwards you will recognise every canal you cycle along. On warm evenings, pick a sunset departure. Skipper yourself ### Rent your own little boat No licence, no experience needed. You get a quiet electric sloop, a canal map and a short briefing, and then the canals are yours. Pack a picnic, set your own pace and moor up for a drink on the way. **Best for:** couples and friends who like to explore at their own pace - **Licence**: Not needed - **Boats**: Electric sloops for 1 to 8 people, open daily 10:00 to 22:00 - **Departs**: Canal Motorboats, Borneosteiger 8, about a 12-minute walk from Kadans - **Also**: [Mokumboot East](https://mokumboot.nl/en/boat-rental-amsterdam/amsterdam-east/), Mauritskade 65, from €97.50 for 2 hours - **Book with**: [Canal Motorboats](https://www.canalmotorboats.com/) or [Mokumboot](https://mokumboot.nl/en/), online **Our tip:** Walk to the Borneosteiger and you are on the water within 15 minutes of leaving your suite. Pick up bread and cheese on the way and make it a picnic. Tourist tax is added per person. Private ### A private boat with your own skipper Celebrating something? Book a whole boat with a skipper, just for the two of you or your group. Add bubbles and snacks, or go all in with brunch, pizza or dinner on board. **Best for:** birthdays, anniversaries and proposals - **Duration**: 2 to 5 hours - **From**: around €425 for a private 2-hour tour - **Departs**: Flagship: Oosterdokskade 8, at the Sea Palace by NEMO - **Get there**: Bike 12 min to NEMO - **Book with**: [Mokumboot](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) or [Flagship Amsterdam](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) **Our tip:** Planning a proposal or an anniversary? Tell us before you arrive. We are happy to think along about the surprise. Where to board ### Departure points and boat rentals **** Canal tour with a captain **Flagship Amsterdam** Prins Hendrikkade 33A, Amsterdam [flagshipamsterdam.com ↗](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) [+31 20 261 2828](tel:+31202612828) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Prins+Hendrikkade+33A,+Amsterdam) **** Canal tour with a captain **Mokumboot** Stationsplein 28, Amsterdam [mokumboot.nl ↗](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) [+31 20 210 5700](tel:+31202105700) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Stationsplein+28,+Amsterdam) **** Canal tour with a captain **Flagship Amsterdam** Prinsengracht 267, Amsterdam [flagshipamsterdam.com ↗](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) [+31 20 261 2828](tel:+31202612828) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Prinsengracht+267,+Amsterdam) **** Canal tour with a captain **Flagship Amsterdam** Museumbrug 1, Amsterdam [flagshipamsterdam.com ↗](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) [+31 20 261 2828](tel:+31202612828) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Museumbrug+1,+Amsterdam) **** Rent a boat, no licence needed **Canal Motorboats** Borneosteiger 8, Amsterdam [canalmotorboats.com ↗](https://www.canalmotorboats.com/) [+31 20 422 7007](tel:+31204227007) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Borneosteiger+8,+Amsterdam) **** Rent a boat, no licence needed **Mokumboot** Mauritskade 65, Amsterdam [mokumboot.nl ↗](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) [+31 20 210 5700](tel:+31202105700) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mauritskade+65,+Amsterdam) **** Rent a boat, no licence needed **Mokumboot** Mauritskade 1-E, Amsterdam [mokumboot.nl ↗](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) [+31 20 210 5700](tel:+31202105700) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Mauritskade+1-E,+Amsterdam) **** Rent a boat, no licence needed **Mokumboot** Nassaukade 351, Amsterdam [mokumboot.nl ↗](https://mokumboot.nl/en/) [+31 20 210 5700](tel:+31202105700) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Nassaukade+351,+Amsterdam) **** Private boat with skipper **Flagship Amsterdam** Oosterdokskade 8, Amsterdam [flagshipamsterdam.com ↗](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) [+31 20 261 2828](tel:+31202612828) [Directions ↗](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Oosterdokskade+8,+Amsterdam) Tap a point on the map for the website, phone number and directions. Closest to the boat: Canal Motorboats at the Borneosteiger, about a 12-minute walk. Self-drive boats are not allowed on the open IJ, so they leave from the sheltered water south of the islands. **Further south (off the map)** - **Mokumboot de Pijp** · Jozef Israëlskade, by Hotel Okura - **Mokumboot Weesper** · Schollenbrugstraat 1 - **Mokumboot RAI** · Wielingenstraat 9 - **Mokumboot South** · Stadionkade 73b - [All Mokumboot locations ↗](https://mokumboot.nl/en/contact) · +31 20 210 5700 Our favourite on the water ### Flagship Amsterdam The canal company we send our own friends to. Live guides, beautiful boats, a growing 100% electric fleet and more than 40,000 reviews on Tripadvisor. Book on their own website for the best price, and cancel for free up to 24 hours before you sail. [Book with Flagship](https://flagshipamsterdam.com/) [+31 20 261 2828](tel:+31202612828) First day in town **Luxury Canal Cruise** 1 hour · from €19.40 A live guide, the classic canal ring and the stories behind the gables. **Departs:** Anne Frank House, Central Station or Rijksmuseum Romantic evening **Evening Cruise** 1 hour · from €18.10 Golden hour on the water, with bridges lighting up as it gets dark. Daily from 17:00. **Departs:** Anne Frank House or Central Station For foodies **Saloon Boat with Cheese & Wine** 1 hour · from €28.20 A classic saloon boat with a roof and big windows, so rain or shine works. **Departs:** Anne Frank House or Central Station Winter **Winter Lights Canal Cruise** from €27.28 The Amsterdam Light Festival artworks from the water, with warm drinks on board. **Departs:** Central Station Big night out **Dinner Cruise** 2 h 15 min · from €119.95 Three courses à la carte while the city glides by. **Departs:** Near Central Station Just the two of you **Private boat with skipper** Riverboat Cosy, up to 10 guests 100% electric. Add a Prosecco or cheese package and make it your own party. **Departs:** Oosterdokskade 8 (Sea Palace) Also handy: Flagship rents city bikes from €8.50 and runs bike and food tours, plus German and French guided cruises. Starting prices from flagshipamsterdam.com, October 2026. **Free: the IJ ferries** The cheapest boat trip in town, and your bike can come too. The F1 leaves from our own island to Noord. From Central Station, the F3 crosses to Eye and A’DAM Lookout and the F4 to NDSM. **Winter: light art by boat** During the Amsterdam Light Festival (26 November 2026 to 17 January 2027) you see the artworks best from the water. Choose a covered boat with warm drinks, or an open sloop with blankets. **Rules for your own boat** Keep to the right and give way to tour boats. The open IJ and the harbour are off limits, music is not allowed and the skipper stays sober. Expect a card deposit and tourist tax per person. **Book ahead** Spring, summer and weekends fill up fast, so reserve online. Most open boats have no toilet: go before you board. Prices are starting prices, checked in October 2026, and can change. Tourist tax may be added. Zero to ten minutes [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Right outside the Boatsuite You do not have to go far. KNSM Island and the old harbour islands around it are one of the most beautiful corners of Amsterdam, starting at your front door. [More about the island](https://amsterdambb.com/en/knsm-island). **Swim from our platform** At the back of Kadans From the boat Cross your deck and follow the boat to the back: our swim platform has a ladder straight into the harbour. Summer or winter: we swim all year, like many islanders. **Borrow our SUP boards** On deck From the boat Stand-up paddle boards and paddles are ready on deck. Paddle along the quiet harbour islands. Ask us and we help you on your way. **Dinner around the corner** Paon Bali, Café Kanis and De Zuid 2 to 5 min walk Balinese to take away for dinner on your deck, a typically Dutch café, and a kitchen with Oysters & Bubbles one Friday a month. All within 5 minutes. [Our dinner tips](https://amsterdambb.com/en/food-drinks-amsterdam#food-dinner). **Sunset on your deck** The bow of Kadans Zero minutes The best seat in the harbour. Pour a drink and watch the sky turn pink over the water. **The harbour islands walk** KNSM, Java Island, Borneo-Sporenburg On foot from the boat Wide quays, bold architecture and the famous red bridges over the water. A quiet loop that guests always love. **Drinks with a view** Hotel Jakarta, Java Island A short walk A sky bar with a view over the IJ, at the end of the next island. Perfect for an aperitif. **Cycle the IJ waterfront** Along the water to Central Station Bike 14 min The easiest and prettiest way into the city: water on one side, cranes and ships on the other. **Maritime Museum** Het Scheepvaartmuseum, Kattenburg Near NEMO, bike about 12 min Fitting for a houseboat guest: centuries of Dutch seafaring, with a full-size replica of the VOC ship Amsterdam moored outside. ![Aerial photo of KNSM Island in Amsterdam with an arrow pointing to houseboat Kadans](https://amsterdambb.com/img/knsm-island-aerial-kadans-marked.jpg) ![The red Python bridge between Borneo and Sporenburg, a short walk from the boat](https://amsterdambb.com/img/python-bridge-borneo-sporenburg-amsterdam.jpg) ![Swimming from the quay on KNSM Island on a summer day](https://amsterdambb.com/img/swimming-from-the-quay-knsm-island-amsterdam.jpg) Wander and get lost [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Which neighbourhoods should you visit? Amsterdam is a city of villages. Each neighbourhood has its own pace, so pick one or two per day and take your time. ![Colourful canal houses and bikes on a bridge in the Amsterdam city centre](https://amsterdambb.com/img/amsterdam-city-centre-canal-houses-bikes.jpg) ### City centre Bike 15 min · Tram 1 + metro 36 min The historic heart: Dam Square, the canal ring, the oldest streets and the buzz of the Red Light District, all within a few minutes on foot. - Dam Square, the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk - Begijnhof, a hidden courtyard of almshouses - Nieuwmarkt and Zeedijk for food and old Amsterdam ![The Prinsengracht and Westerkerk at dusk, on the edge of the Jordaan](https://amsterdambb.com/img/jordaan-prinsengracht-westerkerk-dusk.jpg) ### Jordaan & Nine Streets Bike 15 to 18 min Picture-perfect canals, quiet side streets, small boutiques, vintage and cosy cafés. - Come early: the canals are empty before 9:00 - Saturday market on the Noordermarkt - Apple pie with whipped cream around the corner ![A herring stall at the Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp](https://amsterdambb.com/img/albert-cuyp-market-herring-stall-de-pijp.jpg) ### De Pijp Around 20 min by bike Lively, foodie and a little bohemian. Terraces everywhere and the biggest street market in the country. - Albert Cuyp Market for a warm stroopwafel - Sarphatipark for a break in the green - Surinamese sandwiches on the go ![The busy terrace of Badhuis Javaplein in Amsterdam-Oost](https://amsterdambb.com/img/badhuis-javaplein-terrace-amsterdam-oost.jpg) ### Oost Bike 10 to 15 min Our side of town: local, international and relaxed, with great food from all over the world. - Dappermarkt, the neighbourhood market - Javastraat for food and coffee - Oosterpark for a picnic ![Street art at the NDSM wharf in Amsterdam-Noord](https://amsterdambb.com/img/ndsm-wharf-street-art-amsterdam-noord.jpg) ### Noord Bike 16 min incl. ferry Across the IJ: creative, industrial and full of surprises. Getting there is half the fun. - Free F1 ferry from our island, or the F3 and F4 from Central Station - Eye Film Museum and A’DAM Lookout - NDSM: street art, studios and food on the water ![Old warehouses along the Entrepotdok canal in the Plantage](https://amsterdambb.com/img/entrepotdok-warehouses-plantage-amsterdam.jpg) ### Plantage Bike 12 min · Tram 1 25 min Leafy streets, grand houses and some of the city’s best-loved sights, close to the boat. - Artis Zoo and its historic aquarium - Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world - Micropia, the museum of microbes ![Tulips in bloom in the Vondelpark in spring](https://amsterdambb.com/img/vondelpark-tulips-spring-amsterdam.jpg) ### Oud-West & Vondelpark Bike 19 min · Tram 1 29 min The city park and a neighbourhood full of restaurants, coffee bars and little shops. - Vondelpark: walk, cycle or picnic - Foodhallen in De Hallen - Wine bars on the De Clercqstraat Book ahead [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Museums World-class art, one moving house and a few surprises. Tram 1 takes you straight to Museumplein without changing. Our favourite museum ### Our Lord in the Attic Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder · Oudezijds Voorburgwal, old centre · Bike about 15 min From the street it looks like an ordinary 17th-century canal house. Climb the narrow stairs and you find a complete, hidden church in the attic. Small, surprising and never as busy as the big ones. The museum we send every friend to. [Visit opsolder.nl ↗](https://opsolder.nl/) **Book the big ones before you travel** The Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum work with time slots and often sell out, the Anne Frank House weeks ahead. Book online as soon as your dates are set. **Rijksmuseum** Museumplein Bike 19 min · Tram 1 27 min Rembrandt’s Night Watch, Vermeer’s Milkmaid and 800 years of Dutch history in one magnificent building. Book a time slot online **Van Gogh Museum** Museumplein Next to the Rijksmuseum The largest Van Gogh collection in the world, from the Sunflowers to his letters. Look out for late openings. Book a time slot online **Anne Frank House** Prinsengracht Bike 18 min The secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary. Small, quiet and deeply moving. Tickets sell out: book weeks ahead **Stedelijk Museum** Museumplein Bike 19 min Modern and contemporary art and design, with big temporary exhibitions. **NEMO Science Museum** Oosterdok Bike 12 min Hands-on science in a green ship-shaped building. Climb to the roof for a free view over the harbour. **Eye Film Museum** Noord, by the ferry Bike 16 min incl. ferry Film exhibitions and screenings in a white building on the water, right across from Central Station. **H’ART Museum** On the Amstel Bike about 15 min Big international exhibitions in a historic building on the river. **STRAAT Museum** NDSM, Noord Ferry from Central Station Huge street art and graffiti works in a former shipyard hall. Combine it with lunch at NDSM. **Dutch Resistance Museum** Plantage Bike about 12 min How the Netherlands lived through the Second World War, told through personal stories. Browse and taste [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Markets & shopping Skip the chain stores. Amsterdam’s markets and small streets are where the fun is. **Albert Cuyp Market** De Pijp · daily except Sunday The biggest day market in the country since 1905: cheese, fish, flowers and fresh stroopwafels straight off the iron. **Noordermarkt** Jordaan · Saturday A farmers’ market around the church, with organic produce, cheese and that famous apple pie nearby. **Dappermarkt** Oost · daily except Sunday A real neighbourhood market with stalls from all over the world. Closest to the boat. **The Nine Streets** Between the canals Small boutiques, vintage, design and concept stores across nine little streets. **IJ-Hallen flea market** NDSM, Noord · one weekend a month One of Europe’s biggest flea markets in a former shipyard. Check the dates before you go. **Hungry for more?** Bitterballen, rijsttafel, herring and our own favourites on the island. [Food & drinks](https://amsterdambb.com/en/food-drinks-amsterdam) When to come [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Amsterdam through the year Every season has its own magic. April to June and September are the sweet spot: mild weather and fewer crowds. ### Spring March to May - **Tulip season** Bulb fields in bloom from late March to early May - **King’s Day, 27 April** The whole city turns orange, with boats on every canal - **Liberation Day, 5 May** The free concert on the Amstel, on a stage on the water - **Terrace season** The first sunny days on the water ### Summer June to August - **Swim and SUP** Straight from the boat - **Pride Amsterdam** Late July to early August, with the [Canal Parade on 7 August 2027](https://amsterdambb.com/en/bnb-pride-amsterdam-canal-parade) - **Prinsengrachtconcert** A free classical concert on the canal, every August - **Grachtenfestival** Classical concerts at canal-side spots, mid August - **Long light evenings** Sunset on your deck after 21:30 ### Autumn September to November - **September calm** Summer weather, fewer people - **Open Monumentendag** Hidden historic buildings open their doors, September - **Amsterdam Marathon** Runners through the city, mid October - **Amsterdam Dance Event** Usually the third week of October. [Staying for ADE](https://amsterdambb.com/en/houseboat-bb-ade-amsterdam) - **Museumnacht** First Saturday of November: 65+ museums open until 02:00 - **Cosy cafés** Bitterballen in a brown café on a rainy day ### Winter December to February - **Amsterdam Light Festival** Light art on the canals, late November to mid January - **Ice skating** The rink on Museumplein - **Christmas markets** Throughout December - **New Year’s Eve** Fireworks over the IJ, seen from the island - **Chinese New Year** Lion dances in Chinatown at the Nieuwmarkt - **A cold dip** Join the islanders for a winter swim Out of town [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Day trips The Netherlands is small. From Central Station you are in another world within half an hour. ![Windmill De Adriaan and the St. Bavo church in Haarlem](https://amsterdambb.com/img/haarlem-windmill-de-adriaan-st-bavo.jpg) **Haarlem** About 15 min by train A compact old town with a huge church, hidden courtyards and great shopping. Amsterdam’s little sister. ![A beach club terrace on the North Sea coast](https://amsterdambb.com/img/beach-club-terrace-north-sea-coast.jpg) **The beach** Zandvoort or Bloemendaal, about 30 min by train Sand, sea and beach clubs. Perfect on a hot summer day, beautiful for a windy walk the rest of the year. ![Colourful tulip fields in bloom in spring](https://amsterdambb.com/img/tulip-fields-in-bloom-netherlands.jpg) **Tulip fields** Late March to early May Endless stripes of colour around Lisse. Go early in the season and on a weekday if you can. ![Wharf-level cafés along the Oudegracht in Utrecht](https://amsterdambb.com/img/utrecht-oudegracht-wharf-cafes.jpg) **Utrecht** About 25 to 30 min by train A medieval centre, canals with wharf-level cafés and the tallest church tower in the country. ![Green and orange windmills at the Zaanse Schans, with a boat on the river Zaan](https://amsterdambb.com/img/zaanse-schans-windmills-river-zaan.jpg) **Zaanse Schans** About 20 min by train Working windmills and green wooden houses on the river Zaan. Very Dutch, very photogenic. Ready-made [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Plan your days Three ways to spend your stay, all starting and ending at the bow. ### Your first 48 hours The classics, without the rush. 1. Day 1 Breakfast at [Anne&Max](https://amsterdambb.com/en/food-drinks-amsterdam#food-breakfast) around the corner, then cycle along the IJ to Central Station. 2. Morning Canal tour in an open boat with a captain as your guide. 3. Afternoon Lunch and a wander through the Jordaan and the Nine Streets. Anne Frank House if you booked. 4. Evening Bitterballen in a brown café, then home for sunset on the deck. 5. Day 2 Tram 1 to the Rijksmuseum, then Vondelpark and the Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp. ### A slow weekend For when you came to unwind. 1. Morning Coffee on the deck, a swim from our platform if it is warm. 2. Late morning Walk the harbour islands and the red bridges. 3. Afternoon Walk to the Borneosteiger and rent your own little boat, with a picnic on board. 4. Evening Aperitif with a view at Hotel Jakarta, dinner on the island. 5. Sunday Free ferry to Noord, lunch at NDSM, back via A’DAM Lookout. ### Art and culture Museums at your own pace. 1. Day 1 Rijksmuseum in the morning, Van Gogh Museum after lunch. 2. Evening Dinner in De Pijp, cycle home along the Amstel. 3. Day 2 Stedelijk Museum, then H’ART Museum on the Amstel. 4. Afternoon Free ferry to Eye Film Museum and STRAAT at NDSM. 5. Night Back to the bow. The view from your deck is art too. Getting around [↑ All topics](https://amsterdambb.com/en/things-to-do-amsterdam#topics) ## Getting around like a local A few practical tips that make your days in the city easier. Arriving? Here is [how to get to the boat](https://amsterdambb.com/en/how-to-get-here) from Schiphol, by train or by car. **Tap in, tap out** Tram, bus and metro Pay with your contactless bank card or phone when you get on and off. No cash on board. **Handy apps** On your phone GVB for trams and ferries, 9292 for all public transport, NS for trains and Buienradar for the rain. **Cards and cash** Paying Contactless payment works almost everywhere. Some small places do not take foreign credit cards, so a debit card helps. **City card** For museum lovers The I amsterdam City Card gives free entry to many museums plus unlimited public transport. **Uber or Bolt** Taxi Usually cheaper than a regular taxi. Early flight? Pre-book TCA Taxi, the local Amsterdam taxi company, on +31 20 777 7777 or in their app. [Taxi tips](https://amsterdambb.com/en/how-to-get-here#taxi). **Ask us** Renske and Tim Not sure what fits your day, or the weather? [Send us a message](https://amsterdambb.com/en/contact). We love helping you plan. On two wheels ### Rent a bike or a scooter The closest option is a shared bike or scooter you unlock with your phone. Prefer a classic rental with a helmet, lock and advice? The rental shops are at Central Station, 18 minutes by bus 43. Closest · shared bikes **Donkey Republic** Bikes and e-bikes via the app - Find a bike nearby in the app and unlock it with your phone - Park at a hub: the app shows the hubs closest to the boat - Pay per hour or day [donkey.bike ↗](https://www.donkey.bike/nl) Closest · shared scooters **Check** Electric mopeds via the Check app - From around €0.35 per minute - Register in the app first: 18+ and a driving licence - Helmet in the top case, park in the zones shown in the app [ridecheck.app ↗](https://ridecheck.app/) Closest · shared scooters **Felyx** Electric mopeds via the Felyx app - A separate company, with green scooters - Register in the app first: 18+ and a driving licence - Compare both apps: prices and the nearest scooter differ [felyx.com ↗](https://felyx.com/) Rental shop · Central Station **MacBike** Oosterdoksstraat 106, behind Central Station - City bikes and e-bikes, with lock - Daily from 9:00, until 17:00 or 18:00 - Bus 43 or tram 26 to Central Station, 5 minutes on foot [macbike.nl ↗](https://www.macbike.nl/en/) Rental shop · Central Station **Yellow Bike** De Ruijterkade 34B, water side of Central Station - Bikes and guided bike tours - Right next to the tram 26 stop - Book online ahead in busy months [yellowbike.nl ↗](https://www.yellowbike.nl/en/bike-rental-amsterdam/) Shared scooter providers in Amsterdam can change, so check the apps for the latest. Prices and hours checked October 2026. ## From the Boatsuite to the sights [Open the route map](https://amsterdambb.com/en/how-to-get-here#getting-around) | From the Boatsuite to | Bike | Tram / bus | Walk | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Central Station | 14 min | 28 min Tram 26 or bus 43 | 49 min | | NEMO Science Museum | 12 min | 30 min Tram 26 + short walk | 44 min | | Artis Zoo | 12 min | 25 min Tram 1, no transfer | 43 min | | Dam Square | 15 min | 36 min Tram 1 + metro 54 | 57 min | | Anne Frank House | 18 min | 48 min Tram 1 + tram 5 | 70 min | | Rijksmuseum | 19 min | 27 min Tram 1, no transfer | 70 min | | Leidseplein | 19 min | 29 min Tram 1, no transfer | 74 min | | A'DAM Lookout | 16 min | 41 min Tram 26 + free ferry | 54 min | Door to door, Google Maps, Friday 10:00 departure. ## All this, and you sleep on the water [Food & drinks](https://amsterdambb.com/en/food-drinks-amsterdam) [Check availability](https://amsterdambb.com/en/book)