Amsterdam is a vibrant and fun European city filled with shops, museums, and markets for you to explore. However, other cities have the same things too, and maybe you want something more exciting, more interesting; something that is truly Amsterdam. Look no further, as here are 5 activities that you can only experience in the Dutch capital, which will have you going from the waters of the canal to the skies, from the cold to the heat of the streets.
Grab an Ice Cold Drink at Amsterdam Icebar: Xtracold
Looking for a way to escape the heat? Visit Xtracold, Amsterdam’s coolest bar! In the Icebar, everything is made of ice: the walls, the chairs, even the cups and glasses, so you can be sure your drinks will never get warm. Kept at a freezing -10°C, this bar is sure to keep you shivering, so don’t forget to warm up in the thermal jackets and gloves provided for you.
With every ticket purchased, you will get three tokens: one golden and two silver, with which you can exchange for complimentary drinks. Use your golden token to get a drink at the heated front lounge bar first, before heading into the cold and using your silver tokens at the icebar. Enjoy a large glass of Heineken, some cocktails, or maybe just a non-alcoholic drink. You can always pay for more drinks, but whatever you choose, they will be sure to keep you warm during this chilly experience.
Address: Amstel 194, 1017 AG Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Sunday - Thursday: 11:45am - 1am
Friday - Saturday: 11:45am - 2:40am
Admission: €19.50 (as of 16/6/20) (Tickets and time slot must be booked online)
Save the Environment on a Plastic Whale Cruise
If you’re looking for a different and unique canal cruise experience, why not join one that is organised by the company Plastic Whale? Plastic Whale’s objective is to help clear as much plastic waste from the waters as possible, while also educating people about the impact of plastic waste on the environment and encouraging them to reduce their own waste.
As part of their unique cruise, you will not only get a two hour tour of Amsterdam from the canals, you will also be plastic fishing! As the guide brings you around to see the sights, use the net provided to you to pick up any bits of plastic you might find in the water. At the end of the tour, all the plastic waste will be collected, which the company will then send to be recycled and remade into furniture or into boats like the one you have just explored Amsterdam in! So if you want to learn more about the city while also doing your part in helping the environment, do consider going on this plastic fishing cruise.
Address: Le Mairekade 33a, 1013 CB Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 9am - 5:30pm
Contact Details:
Phone: +31207373049 / +31624224429
Website
Surround Yourself with Cats at De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat)
Love cat cafes? Why not take it up a notch and visit a cat boat? Founded by Henriette van Weelde in 1966 when she first wanted to take in and care for stray cats, De Poezenboot is now an official charity that houses up to 50 cats at a time in a floating sanctuary.
Locals often visit looking to adopt, but you are more than welcome to drop by just to give the cats a few scratches behind the ear and a pat on the head. As it is a charity and does not require an entrance fee, do donate as it is donations that keep these furry felines healthy and well-fed. Merchandise is also available for purchase, where you can buy items like tote bags and postcards to remember your visit to such an unforgettable destination.
Address: Singel 38G, 1015 AB Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday - Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday: 1pm - 3pm
Enjoy a View of the City from the A'DAM Lookout and Over The Edge Swing
Enjoy a panoramic view of the city at A’DAM Lookout, with a 360° sky deck that lets you see the city from 100 metres in the sky. Just take a free, 2 minute ferry ride to ‘Buiksloterweg’ from behind the Amsterdam Central Station and you’ll find yourself a quick walk away from the A’DAM tower.
Feeling adventurous? Take a ride on Europe’s highest swing. Located on the sky deck, Over The Edge will have you swinging over the edge of the tower, your feet dangling 100 metres in the air. Be prepared to have an adrenaline rush as you enjoy this thrilling way of viewing the city.
Address: Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday: 10am - 6pm
Tickets:
Regular (for skydeck only):
Adult: €12.50*
Child: €6.50*
* For online purchase. €2 additional if purchased in person
Over the Edge:
Adult: €5
Child: €5
Explore Amsterdam at Night with a Red Light District Tour
Amsterdam is known for many things, and it's Red Light District is one of them. If you’re curious about the area, but you’re not sure how to go about exploring it, or you just feel awkward about exploring it on your own, the best thing to do would be to join a tour!
Amsterdam Red Light District Tours is one company that offers a smooth experience and navigation. A local guide will bring you on an hour-and-a-half long walking tour through the district, where you will gain insight into Dutch culture and Amsterdam’s history of prostitution. Explore and learn more about the area as the guide brings you to important and interesting spots, including window brothels and peep shows, so prepare yourself before you visit this unique part of Amsterdam!
Contact Details:
Website
Whatsapp: 0031618276884
There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam, but if you’re looking to make your trip that much more memorable, consider participating in at least one of these unique activities.
