Before diving in, please note that the following places are what I consider tourist traps in Amsterdam. However, personal taste varies, so don’t let my opinions deter you if you’re eager to visit these spots. I have Dutch friends, travelled to Amsterdam, and conducted research, so if you’re looking to sidestep tourist traps, this guide is for you.

Stay Alert at Amsterdam Central Station

Be cautious at Amsterdam Central Station, as it’s a hotspot for pickpockets. Always keep an eye on your luggage and personal belongings. If you need assistance, the tourist information center is conveniently located just across from the station.

While some friendly strangers may genuinely want to help, be wary as they could also be con artists. My Dutch friend advised me to stay in well-lit areas and keep my belongings close, especially at Central Station. Staying vigilant will enhance your safety during your visit!

Avoid Damrak Street

If you’re arriving in Amsterdam via Central Station, you’ll likely pass through Damrak Street on your way to Dam Square. However, it’s best to skip this area. During my visit, I noticed that very few locals were on foot; most were cycling past instead.

Damrak Street is known for its overpriced shops and restaurants, catering primarily to tourists. For a more authentic experience, consider exploring nearby streets where you can find better prices and local culture. Save your money for the unique attractions that Amsterdam has to offer.

Skip Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein

Both Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein are often crowded with tourists and street performers, making them less appealing for those seeking an authentic Amsterdam experience. During my visit to Rembrandtplein, I found it overwhelmingly busy, which was fine for me at the time, as I was trying to shake off an unwanted acquaintance.

However, if you decide to visit these squares, be mindful that the surrounding restaurants are typically overpriced and geared towards unsuspecting tourists. For a more genuine experience, explore other areas of the city for better dining options and local flavour.

The Heineken Experience is Overrated

When I arrived in the Netherlands, the Heineken Experience was the first attraction I encountered. However, I decided to skip it based on feedback I had heard and my own dislike for beer—its bitter taste just doesn’t appeal to me. Previously, entry to the brewery was just €1, allowing unlimited drinks after the tour. Now, it costs €10 for a 1.5-hour tour focused on promoting Heineken, and you’re limited to just two half-pints. Unless you’re a die-hard Heineken fan, like my boyfriend, this attraction is probably not worth your time. Instead, consider supporting a smaller Dutch brewery in Amsterdam that offers tours and tastings.

Beer and Cycling Don’t Mix

Amsterdam’s beer bike tours allow tourists to drink while cycling around the city. This activity seems to attract mostly male participants and has been banned in central areas due to local residents’ complaints. If you enjoy drinking, consider doing so at home instead of risking a blackout during your trip. Excessive drinking can also make you a target for scammers and thieves. Save your cash and time, and skip this one.

The Flower Market

While the flower market in Amsterdam is visually appealing, it tends to be overpriced and the flowers are often not freshly picked. Locals rarely buy flowers from here, and you may not be able to bring bulbs home due to international restrictions on flora. Additionally, the market is no longer traditional; flowers are meant to be sold from boats, but this practice has dwindled. My Dutch friend Monique pointed this out to me. Instead, check out local markets like Albert Cuyp, Lindengracht, or the Jordaan Quarter, where you can find authentic local offerings. If you’re interested in bulbs, consider ordering them online for delivery to your doorstep. Feel free to take photos of the flowers, but it’s best to avoid making big purchases at the flower market.

Don’t Hop on the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus in Amsterdam

While I generally enjoy hop-on, hop-off buses for their convenience and tourist-friendly nature, I advise against them in Amsterdam. I’ve experienced this type of tour in my own city with my sister on my birthday, and it was fantastic. These buses can provide a quick overview of a city, especially if you’re short on time. However, in Amsterdam, I opted for common sense and skipped the bus.

The streets can be narrow and crowded, making it challenging to navigate, especially with all the cyclists around. Amsterdam is simply too compact to explore by bus. Key areas like the Red Light District and Nieuwmarkt are best experienced on foot. Instead, consider taking a canal tour or renting a boat; this way, you can avoid traffic jams and enjoy a more leisurely experience. Don’t forget to take photos of the beautiful canals, iconic bridges, and charming bicycles along the way.

Stay Warm: Skip the Ice Bar

While I was initially excited about visiting the ice bar in Amsterdam, I ultimately decided against it—and I don’t regret that choice. In 2016, entry cost €19.50, which included two drinks in what essentially felt like a giant freezer filled with ice sculptures. Most patrons only stay for about 15 minutes, making it a quick visit. Additionally, these ice bars aren’t environmentally friendly; they consume a lot of electricity to keep the ice intact and often waste water in the process.

Last year, I experienced a pop-up ice bar in my city for free, but I didn’t stay long due to the extreme cold. Despite promises of recycling, I noticed lots of generators running. Instead of spending money on a fleeting experience, consider exploring more interesting activities in Amsterdam. If you visit in winter, you might enjoy outdoor spaces where you can sip drinks and embrace the chill without breaking the bank!

Avoid Pastries in the Red Light District

It’s best to skip the bakeries in the Red Light District. These shops cater primarily to tourists and don’t specialise in fresh pastries. During my visit, I noticed a lack of customers, which raised my suspicions about the quality of the baked goods. More often than not, the pastries are stale and sold to unsuspecting tourists looking for a late-night snack after visiting local coffee shops.

The Cheese “Museum” and Tulip “Museum”

The quotes around “museum” highlight that these places are really just large shops masquerading as museums. They attract tourists with the hope of making sales rather than providing a true museum experience. The exhibits are small and not particularly noteworthy, so I opted to walk past without entering.

The Erotic and Sex Museums

If you’re interested in viewing nude images or graphic content, you can easily find that online. Given the rich cultural offerings in Amsterdam—like Van Gogh’s paintings and Anne Frank’s house—these so-called museums feel less relevant. In my opinion, they are just tourist traps and not worth the time.

Skip Discounted Package Tickets

If you’re looking to save money while exploring Amsterdam, avoid buying package deals. Many attractions included in these packages are ones I recommend skipping, which can create a sense of obligation to visit them. Remember, the “free” entries you get aren’t truly free—they’re built into the package price.

I Amsterdam City Card: Not Necessary

The I Amsterdam City Card is only worth it if you plan to visit at least three museums and take a canal cruise in a single day. Amsterdam is walkable, so you can easily get around on foot. If you do need public transport, simply buy a tram or bus ticket from the conductor. While the card offers free entry to most museums, it excludes two of the most popular ones: the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. Given its cost, it’s best to forgo the card unless you’re planning to visit multiple attractions.

Madame Tussauds

The Amsterdam branch of Madame Tussauds is smaller and often filled with teenagers. If you still wish to visit, book your ticket online to save money, but be prepared for large crowds and long lines.

Amsterdam Dungeon: Worth Skipping?

Many locals describe the Amsterdam Dungeon as more tacky than terrifying. While it features actors designed to scare visitors and displays fake torture devices, the overall experience may not be as frightening as you might expect. There is a brief rollercoaster ride at the end, which some find appealing, but overall, it lacks educational value.

If you’re curious about visiting, I recommend doing some research first, as ticket prices can vary based on the time, location, and group size. Personally, I found it unappealing, especially since I don’t scare easily.

Thank you for reading! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this post. If you disagree with my suggestions or have more to add, please share your comments.

Wishing you happy travels!