Amsterdam is one of those cities that feels instantly welcoming – canals lined with historic houses, cozy cafés on every corner, and bikes zipping by in every direction. But what makes it extra special? It’s an absolute dream for solo travelers. Whether you’re into museums, markets, or just wandering aimlessly along the water, Amsterdam has plenty to keep you entertained (and feeling safe) when you’re exploring on your own.
Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Amsterdam, solo-traveler style.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
Luxury: Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
Budget: Durty Nelly’s Inn
1. Wander the Canals
The heart of Amsterdam is its canal belt – and there’s no better way to explore than just strolling (or biking, if you’re brave!) along the water. You’ll stumble across adorable bridges, hidden courtyards, and streets lined with colorful bikes. My favorite solo moments were simply sitting on a canal edge with a stroopwafel in hand, watching boats drift by.
2. Visit the Anne Frank House
Visiting the Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences you can have in Amsterdam. Walking through the secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary is powerful and humbling. Tickets sell out quickly, so book well in advance!
3. Dive Into Art at the Van Gogh Museum
Even if you’re not a huge museum person, the Van Gogh Museum is an absolute must. Going solo means you can linger in front of your favorite paintings as long as you want (hello, Sunflowers), without anyone rushing you along.
Pro Tip: Book Van Gogh Museum tickets in advance – they sell out fast, especially during peak seasons.
4. Take a Canal Cruise
Sure, it’s touristy, but taking a canal cruise is one of the most iconic ways to see Amsterdam!
Check out this Amsterdam cruise here:
Amsterdam: Classic Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine
5. Explore Jordaan
This neighborhood is basically a postcard come to life. Think narrow streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. It’s also a great spot for solo dining – grab a table at a local brown café (traditional Dutch pub) and soak up the atmosphere.
6. Browse Albert Cuyp Market
Markets are perfect for solo travelers – you can snack your way through without compromise! Albert Cuyp Market is the largest in Amsterdam, and you’ll find everything from fresh herring (a Dutch specialty) to piping hot stroopwafels made right in front of you.
7. Chill Out in Vondelpark
Need a break from the hustle? Head to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s biggest green space. Bring a book, rent a bike, or just people-watch – it’s a great way to spend a relaxed afternoon on your own.
8. Discover Hidden Courtyards (Hofjes)
One of the cutest surprise travel moments is stumbling upon a hofje – peaceful inner courtyards tucked behind Amsterdam’s bustling streets. Many are open to the public, and they feel like secret gardens right in the middle of the city.
9. Take a Day Trip
Amsterdam makes a perfect base for day trips. Zaanse Schans (windmills), Haarlem (charming old town), or even the tulip fields in spring are easy to reach by train.
Check out this day tour to Zaanse Schans here:
Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour
10. Embrace Solo Dining
Amsterdam is super solo-friendly when it comes to dining. Many cafés and restaurants have bar seating or small tables, so you’ll never feel out of place. Try Dutch pancakes, bitterballen, Indonesian rijsttafel, or just a classic cheese board with a glass of wine.
Check out this food tour here:
Amsterdam: Hidden Gems Food Tour and Cultural Experience
Amsterdam is such a magical place to explore solo – between the canals, museums, and friendly atmosphere – it’s a place that is easy to navigate, but also easy to get lost (in the best way!) and find so many hidden gems.
Netherlands Helpful Links
Where to stay in Amsterdam
Luxury: Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
Budget: Durty Nelly’s Inn
Top Tours from Amsterdam
– Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket
– Amsterdam: Classic Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine
– Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour
– Amsterdam: Half Day Tour Tulip Fields and Tulip Experience
– Amsterdam: A’DAM Lookout Entry Ticket with 1 drink
How to Get Around The Netherlands
Getting around The Netherlands is surprisingly easy once you know your options.
Trains are hands-down the best way to travel between major cities (check out Rail Europe for tickets and trip planning), while booking a rental car give you the freedom to explore the countryside, coastal roads, and tiny villages at your own pace.
The Netherlands SIM Card: Airalo eSIM
Staying connected in The Netherlands is a must for maps, transport apps, bookings, and Googling “best stroopwafels near me” (trust me). I used Airalo, an eSIM app that lets you download a data plan before you even land.
There’s no need to swap physical SIM cards or hunt down a store at the airport. Just activate your eSIM and you’re online the moment you arrive – easy, affordable, and super convenient.
👉 Get your Europe eSIM with Airalo here
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links – at no extra cost to you.
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Jess at Sea 
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