Amsterdam is known worldwide for its canals, bicycles, and historic charm, but beneath the postcard-perfect surface lies a city brimming with unexpected adventures. Beyond the museums and market squares, you’ll find secret gardens, immersive dining experiences, and ways to see the canals that most tourists never discover.
If you’re planning a trip and want to go beyond the basics, this list of ten unique things to do in Amsterdam will help you see the city through a new lens — creative, adventurous, and refreshingly authentic.
1. Explore the City from a New Perspective on an Amsterdam Smoke Boat
Canal cruises are classic, but if you want something truly distinctive, the Amsterdam smoke boat experience from Fun Amsterdam is a must-try.
Unlike the crowded tourist boats, this private or semi-private cruise lets you unwind in style as you float through the city’s waterways. Picture cozy seating, friendly hosts, and a chilled-out atmosphere that encourages laughter and connection. Guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments and enjoy a relaxed hour on the water surrounded by Amsterdam’s most iconic views.
It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or anyone looking for an adult-friendly experience that captures the city’s free spirit. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a local celebration, this canal adventure feels both exclusive and easy-going — a modern twist on Amsterdam’s timeless canals.
2. Discover Street Art at NDSM Wharf
Across the IJ River lies NDSM Wharf, a creative hub filled with murals, sculptures, and industrial charm. Once a shipyard, this area now serves as an outdoor gallery where graffiti artists from around the world leave their mark.
Grab a ferry from behind Central Station and spend a few hours exploring the massive artworks, quirky cafés, and container studios. It’s a side of Amsterdam that few visitors see — urban, bold, and alive with local energy.
3. Visit the Catboat (De Poezenboot)
Only in Amsterdam would you find a floating sanctuary for cats. The Catboat, or De Poezenboot, is a rescue shelter moored on the Singel Canal. Visitors can meet the feline residents, learn about the foundation’s work, and donate to support their care.
It’s charming, heartfelt, and one of the city’s most endearing secrets. Animal lovers will find it hard to leave without a smile.
4. Dine in the Dark at Ctaste
For a sensory experience like no other, Ctaste invites diners to enjoy a meal entirely in darkness. Served by visually impaired staff, this restaurant eliminates sight so you can focus completely on flavor, texture, and scent.
It’s a powerful reminder of perspective, empathy, and mindfulness — plus, the food is delicious. Book in advance to secure your spot for this one-of-a-kind dinner.
5. Explore Amsterdam’s Secret Courtyards
Hidden behind historic facades, the city’s hofjes (courtyards) offer peaceful escapes from the busy streets. These small gardens, often surrounded by 17th-century almshouses, are perfect for quiet reflection or a scenic photo stop.
The Begijnhof is one of the most famous, but wander into Jordaan or Oud-West and you’ll find even more secret corners where time seems to stand still.
6. Visit a Rooftop Farm at De DakAkker
Urban sustainability comes to life at De DakAkker, one of Europe’s largest rooftop farms. Located in nearby Rotterdam but easily accessible by train, it’s worth the short trip. You can take a guided tour, enjoy locally sourced meals, and admire panoramic views of the skyline — all while learning about green urban design.
7. Join a Local Vinyl Listening Session
Amsterdam’s music scene thrives on nostalgia and creativity. Bars like Cafe Sound Garden and OT301 host listening events where locals bring records and share stories. It’s a low-key way to experience the city’s artistic community and make new connections.
Bring a drink, listen, and let the soundtrack of Amsterdam’s underground culture surprise you.
8. Sip Cocktails in a Hidden Speakeasy
Behind a fridge door in a burger bar, Door 74 offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s roaring twenties. This speakeasy-style bar serves some of the best craft cocktails in the Netherlands, complete with candlelight and velvet seating.
Reservations are essential, and finding the entrance is part of the fun. Once inside, you’ll feel transported to another era.
9. Take a Workshop in Dutch Cheese or Chocolate Making
Move over, museum tours — learning to make traditional Dutch cheese or artisan chocolate is a hands-on way to immerse yourself in local culture. Workshops are offered at places like Henri Willig Cheese Farm and Chocolate & More near the city center.
You’ll leave with a souvenir that’s far more personal than a magnet or postcard.
10. Sleep on a Houseboat
If you’ve ever dreamed of living on the water, you can in Amsterdam. The city’s houseboats are more than floating homes — they’re part of its soul. Book a stay through local platforms and wake up to rippling reflections outside your window.
It’s an intimate and calming way to end your trip, surrounded by the quiet rhythm of canal life.
Amsterdam: A City That Rewards Curiosity
Amsterdam’s magic lies in its ability to surprise. For every famous museum and tourist cruise, there’s an experience that feels hidden, personal, and real. From street art and secret gardens to sensory dining and smoke boats, the city invites you to explore at your own pace.
To plan your itinerary and learn more about official canal routes, cultural events, and attractions, visit I Amsterdam, the city’s official travel portal.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, these lesser-known experiences prove that Amsterdam always has something new to offer — if you’re willing to look beyond the surface.
