How do you see Amsterdam? If you are not an experienced traveller or have never been to the city, you probably see it as just another European city with canals, bikes, cheese shops and high-quality chocolates. However, Amsterdam is much more than that... if you know where to look of course! Here are 8 quirky things to do in Amsterdam that will make you fall in love with the city!
Rent a vintage bike
If you’re looking for a cheap, quirky way to see as much of Amsterdam as possible while you’re there, consider renting a vintage bike. Vintage bikes are popular with tourists in Amsterdam because they offer more flexibility and comfort than regular city bikes. They also come equipped with baskets and space for your belongings, so when you leave for the day, you make sure you pack light so you can fill up your basket with all your souvenirs.
The Crazy 88 Tour
The Crazy 88 Tour is based on the famous tv show of the same name, and is one of the craziest tours in Amsterdam! Bring 10 of your friends along as your tour guides move you through four of Amsterdam’s most iconic locations – The Jordaan, De Wallen Red Light District, Rembrandtplein, and Museumplein. With clues ranging from the mundane to the insane, from simple observational clues to assignments that will encourage you to meet some locals.
Dine in Total Darkness at CTaste
One of our top picks for quirky things to do in Amsterdam has to be a visit to CTaste - a restaurant that only allows you to eat in total darkness. The idea behind eating blindfolded is, well, it’s a way of heightening your other senses when you’re eating—and it also makes for some great photo ops! It’s situated near Oosterpark, which is an up-and-coming neighbourhood with plenty of cool bars and restaurants.
Go window shopping for vintage items
There’s an old saying, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Shopping for second-hand items and vintage memorabilia, you could find a little gem that will make your trip even more memorable. With various markets specifically for clothing and furniture and homeware - (unfortunately we don't think that new cabinet will fit in your vintage bicycle basket) there’s plenty a bargain to be had. Our favourites include; for clothing - Rumors : found at Haarlemmerstraat 29 and 99 and for homeware - Das Gaaf found at Aarbergerweg 30.
Take a drone tour
There’s no better way to explore a city than with a bird’s-eye view. From spring through autumn, hop on board an amphibious vehicle for a unique tour of Amsterdam that includes getting up close and personal with city landmarks, canals, and bridges from water level.
Visit museums during the night
Another thing we recommend during your stay is visit some of the famous museums at night. The Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank's House are some of the most famous museums in Amsterdam but there are many others that you might not be aware of like the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum.
Go on a Segway tour
Segway tours are a fun way to see Amsterdam. When hopping on a Segway, you don’t need any special skill, licence, or coordination. Because of its simplicity, riding on a Segway will allow you time to see more of Amsterdam than you would have otherwise been able to see by car or bike… and you’ll have the benefit of not having tired legs at the end of your journey.
Swing on Top of the World at Adam Lookout
Adam lookout offers an unforgettable view of Central Amsterdam and across to Rotterdam on one side, and North Holland on the other. There are two swing chairs—a delight for swingers of all ages. Whether you have your own pina colada or a couple of family-sized bags of chips, there’s no better way to unwind at sunset after a day spent exploring Amsterdam. The best part is that it’s free!
To get here, take tram #9 from Central Station (and be sure to buy a multi-day tram pass). Once you reach Waterlooplein, cross over Singel Bridge and follow along Prinsengracht until you reach Oudezijds Voorburgwal. Walk up Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal until you see de Gooyer Windmill on your right; then turn left onto Spuistraat and head toward Sint Antoniesbreestraat.
We hope our list of quirky things to do in Amsterdam has piqued your interest enough to book your next adventure. On top of our weird and wonderful ideas It’s also just a beautiful city - with its picturesque canals, gorgeous architecture, and energetic nightlife - so plan your next trip accordingly by with St. Christopher’s Hostels.