10 Unique Places You Need to Visit in Amsterdam

As participants in Amazon Associates and other programs, we earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no additional cost to you. For more details, see our Affiliate Disclosure.

Amsterdam is a city woven with canals and rich history, where every corner tells a story. Beyond the famous canals and vibrant tulip seasons, the city hides unique spots that offer a deeper glimpse into its soul. From hidden courtyards to innovative art galleries, this guide explores ten unique places in Amsterdam that promise not just to amuse but also to captivate your imagination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning admirer, these locations will show you a side of Amsterdam that veers off the beaten path and dives into the heart of this eclectic city.

The Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is one of Amsterdam’s oldest inner courts and a serene oasis in the middle of the city. Originally founded in the 14th century as a residence for the Beguines, a group of pious women who lived like nuns though not bound by monastic vows, today it remains a beautiful and quiet retreat with picturesque gardens and historic houses, including the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam.

Electric Ladyland

Electric Ladyland is the first museum of its kind, dedicated entirely to fluorescent art. Located beneath a more conventional art gallery, this immersive space invites visitors to step into a world of vibrant light and color. The museum showcases the beauty of fluorescent minerals and artistic creations that glow under ultraviolet light, offering a unique sensory experience.

The Catboat

The Catboat, or “De Poezenboot,” is a sanctuary for cats that floats on one of Amsterdam’s many canals. Founded in 1966, it has since grown into a popular attraction, housing numerous cats and providing them with a loving and safe environment. Visitors can come aboard to meet the resident cats and learn about the boat’s mission and history.

De Hortus Botanicus

De Hortus Botanicus is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, established in 1638. This green haven in the city’s center features a vast collection of plants from all continents, including a remarkable array of tropical and subtropical plants housed in historical greenhouses. It’s a place of research and beauty, inviting visitors to explore the fascinating world of botany.

EYE Filmmuseum

The EYE Filmmuseum stands out not only for its striking modern architecture but also as a cultural hub dedicated to the art of film. Located on the north bank of the IJ river, the museum offers exhibitions, screenings, and educational programs that delve into the history and future of cinematic arts, making it a must-visit for film enthusiasts.

Micropia

Micropia is the world’s first museum dedicated to microbes, located in the heart of Amsterdam. This innovative museum uses interactive displays and real-time microscopic imaging to reveal the invisible world of microorganisms. It’s an eye-opening experience that highlights the importance and omnipresence of these tiny organisms in our lives and the environment.

The KattenKabinet

The KattenKabinet is an art museum entirely devoted to works featuring cats. The museum was founded to honor the founder’s own cat, Tom, and now includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, and posters from a variety of periods and styles, all celebrating the feline form. This quirky museum appeals to art lovers and cat enthusiasts alike.

Foam Photography Museum

Foam Photography Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and publications that cover all aspects of photography: contemporary, historical, and everything in between. The museum not only showcases works by famous photographers but also provides a platform for young talent and experimental photography, making it a dynamic space for photo aficionados.

Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder

Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic) is one of the oldest and most fascinating museums in Amsterdam. Hidden inside a 17th-century canal house, this clandestine church was built during a time when Catholic worship was prohibited. The museum now offers a glimpse into religious life of the past with its well-preserved interiors and artifacts.

The Vrolik Museum

The Vrolik Museum, located at the Amsterdam University Medical Center, houses a vast collection of anatomical specimens, human and animal skeletons, and embryological displays. This museum, named after the 19th-century professor Gerardus Vrolik, offers a unique and somewhat macabre insight into the human body and developmental abnormalities.