Welcome to Amsterdam, my friend! This week, the city is absolutely buzzing, with long summer days inviting you to explore beyond the usual. From vibrant outdoor festivals to serene canal-side moments and cutting-edge art, there’s a truly special energy in the air that you won't want to miss. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through our beautiful canals and charming streets!
There's no better way to experience Amsterdam's magic in July than from the water as the light lingers late. Glide past historic gabled houses and under picturesque bridges, seeing the city transform with the glow of the setting sun. Many boats offer evening tours, often with drinks or dinner options.
Tip: Opt for a smaller, open-boat tour for a more intimate experience and better photo opportunities, especially as it gets dark.
Vondelpark is the city's green heart, and in late July, it's alive with activity. Find a sunny spot for a picnic, enjoy a stroll, or catch one of the many free open-air performances at the Vondelpark Openluchttheater throughout the summer.
Tip: Check the Openluchttheater schedule online – you might stumble upon a free concert, dance, or comedy show by local artists.
Head to the iconic green rooftop of the NEMO Science Museum for panoramic views of the city and a relaxed vibe. On Thursday evenings until late August, they host 'Summer on the Rooftop' with live music, food, and drinks, making it a perfect spot for sunset cocktails.
Tip: Start your weekend with a rooftop yoga session here on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday mornings at 9:30 AM for a truly unique start to the day (paid, so book ahead!).
Rent a bike and explore the expansive Amsterdamse Bos, a vast urban park south of the city. It offers lakes for swimming, paddleboarding, rowing, and countless trails for cycling and walking amidst lush greenery.
Tip: Keep an eye out for goats and Scottish Highlanders grazing in designated areas – it's a surprising slice of nature so close to the city.
This trendy indoor food market in a converted tram depot offers an incredible array of international street food, from Vietnamese pho to gourmet hot dogs and delicious bitterballen. It's a fantastic spot for a casual lunch or dinner, especially when the weather is unpredictable.
Tip: Don't miss 'De Ballenbar' for some of the best artisanal bitterballen – try a few different flavors alongside a local craft beer.
Dive into the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam's most famous daily market, the Albert Cuypmarkt. Here you can sample classic Dutch street food like freshly made stroopwafels, crispy kibbeling (fried fish), and the quintessential raw herring.
Tip: Find Rudi's Original Stroopwafels stand for a warm, fresh stroopwafel made right in front of you – eat it immediately!
Experience a vibrant celebration of multicultural food at the Kwaku Summer Festival, continuing throughout July and August in Nelson Mandela Park. This festival is a culinary hotspot, especially for Surinamese and Antillean dishes like grilled pepper chicken, roti, and baka bana.
Tip: Be adventurous and try some 'pom,' a traditional Surinamese baked dish with chicken and taro root, and wash it down with fresh coconut water.
Enjoy a meal or drinks at Café de Jaren, known for its stunning two-story terrace overlooking the Amstel canal. It's a popular spot for locals, offering great food at reasonable prices in a light and airy setting.
Tip: Head to the back balcony for a more secluded and romantic experience, perfect for watching boats glide by.
This legendary former church turned music venue always has an eclectic lineup. This week, you can check out Freshlyground on July 21st, GLU on July 22nd, or 'Culture Wars' on July 25th, offering a diverse range of sounds.
Tip: Buy tickets online in advance, as popular shows at Paradiso often sell out quickly.
If you're into electronic music, Dekmantel Festival kicks off on July 30th at Amsterdamse Bos, bringing internationally recognized artists to the city. While technically the very end of 'this week' and into next, the anticipation and pre-parties will be in full swing.
Tip: If you can't get tickets for the main festival, look for smaller club nights or after-parties happening around the city during the festival week, often featuring some of the same DJs.
For a mid-week dance, head to Club John Doe for their 'Raveland' event on Wednesday. Expect immersive beats and hypnotic lighting in a sleek interior, promising a night where music speaks louder than words.
Tip: Dress to impress for John Doe, as it's a spot that redefines clubbing in Amsterdam.
Enjoy an evening of laughs at a stand-up comedy show. The 'ЛЕТНИЙ STAND-UP В АМСТЕРДАМЕ' at Southend Comedy Club is one of the options available this week, perfect for a lighter night out.
Tip: Many comedy clubs host English-language nights, so check the specific event details if you're looking for shows without a language barrier.
Step into the Royal Palace Amsterdam to discover 'The Netherlands – Japan: Connected Through Time,' an exhibition dedicated to the centuries-old relationship between the two countries. Marvel at colorful folding screens, ceremonial swords, and other art treasures not normally on display.
Tip: The exhibition runs until September 27, 2026, offering a unique glimpse into shared history and cultural exchange within the impressive palace halls.
Experience 'Fabrique des Lumières Summer Nights,' featuring Jimmy Nelson's 'The Last Sentinels.' This digital and immersive exhibition brings iconic photographs of indigenous communities to life with stunning projections, film, animation, and sound.
Tip: Arrive a bit early or stay after to fully absorb the scale and detail of the immersive projections without feeling rushed.
Visit De Nieuwe Kerk to see the powerful and thought-provoking 'World Press Photo Exhibition 2026.' This annual exhibition showcases the best photojournalism from around the globe, offering a profound look at current events and human stories.
Tip: Give yourself ample time to reflect on the stories behind each photograph, as some images can be quite impactful.
Explore the 'Kho Liang Ie Mid-Century Modernist' exhibition at the Stedelijk Museum, running until October 18, 2026. This is your chance to delve into the work of a pivotal designer who shaped Dutch modernism.
Tip: Combine your visit with other ongoing exhibitions like 'Danh Vo πνεῦμα (Ἔλισσα)' or 'Beyond the Manosphere Masculinities Today,' both running until early August.
Get lost (in a good way!) wandering the picturesque narrow streets and charming canals of the Jordaan. This historic neighborhood is perfect for aimless exploration, discovering hidden courtyards, independent boutiques, and traditional 'brown cafes.'
Tip: Look up to spot the beautiful gable stones and unique architectural details on the canal houses, each telling a piece of Amsterdam's history.
Hop on the free ferry behind Central Station to NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam-Noord. This former shipyard is now a vibrant cultural hotspot with impressive street art, industrial-chic dining, and a relaxed, creative atmosphere.
Tip: Keep an eye out for Europe's largest flea market, IJ-Hallen, which happens monthly at NDSM – check its schedule for this week!
While entry to the Moco Museum itself requires a ticket, you can enjoy its free-to-enter outdoor sculpture garden on Museumplein. It's a great way to enjoy contemporary art and the summer sun without spending a dime.
Tip: Pair your visit with a leisurely stroll across Museumplein, often a lively spot with street performers and a great view of the Rijksmuseum.
For an authentic local experience away from the main tourist crowds, visit the Dappermarkt in Amsterdam-Oost. This diverse market offers everything from fresh produce and spices to clothing, with a distinctly multicultural vibe.
Tip: This is a fantastic place to try Surinamese snacks and ingredients; don't hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations!
NEMO is an interactive science museum that makes learning fun for all ages. Kids can explore five floors of hands-on exhibits covering everything from physics to human behavior, sparking curiosity and creativity.
Tip: Don't miss the 'Chain Reaction' demonstration, a spectacular display of cause and effect that captivates both children and adults.
During July and August, ARTIS Royal Zoo offers special evening openings on Saturdays until sunset. Families can enjoy the animals in a different light, with emerging musical talents performing on an open-air stage amidst the vibrant gardens.
Tip: Plan your visit for a Saturday evening to experience the unique 'ZOOmeravonden' atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
From July 24th to August 9th, De Parade, the world's only travelling theatre festival, is in Amsterdam. It's a fantastic, quirky experience for families, offering a mix of theatre shows, live music, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere.
Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure good seats for popular shows and soak in the vibrant fairground-like ambiance.
Rent bicycles for the whole family and explore the vast Amsterdamse Bos. With safe, car-free paths, playgrounds, and even a petting farm, it's an ideal place for kids to burn off some energy and enjoy nature.
Tip: Many bike rental shops offer child seats, tandem bikes, or smaller bikes for kids, making it easy for everyone to join.
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