Top 10 Tourist Traps to Avoid in Amsterdam (2026)

Amsterdam is full of charm, canals, and hidden gems, but some spots can be crowded, expensive, or overhyped. Here’s a simple guide to help you enjoy the city like a local and avoid tourist traps.

1. Amsterdam Central Station 🛤

Where: City center, Northern edge
Info: Busy transport hub, pickpockets sometimes active.

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Like any big train station, keep an eye on your bags and don’t show valuables. Friendly people may offer “help” you didn’t ask for. It’s also a great place to catch a tram or metro to start your Amsterdam adventure.

• Pickpockets can be around 👀
• People offering help may be pushy 🙅‍♂️
• Very busy, lots of tourists 🚶‍♂️
• Quick access to trains, trams, and metro 🚆

2. Damrak Street 🏙

Where: Central Station → Dam Square
Info: Main tourist street with shops & restaurants.

Damrak is lined with souvenir shops, fast-food chains, and busy streets. Prices can be high, but it’s a classic Amsterdam tourist spot. It’s still fun to walk and feel the city energy.

• Lots of souvenir shops 🛍️
• Crowded with tourists 👥
• Overpriced food 🍔
• Fun to walk and see city buzz 🌆

3. Red Light District 🌃

Where: De Wallen
Info: Famous area for nightlife & adult entertainment.

Best to walk around during the day. The area is busy with tourists and has cheap bakeries and small shops. It’s also where you can see Amsterdam’s historic architecture up close.

• Daytime walking safer 🌞
• Lots of tourists, can be crowded 👣
• Unique Amsterdam experience 💡
• Great for photos 📸

4. Heineken Experience 🍺

Where: De Pijp
Info: Brewery turned tourist attraction.

The Heineken Experience is fun if you like beer and history, but can be crowded and pricey. You can also enjoy the tasting section and learn some Dutch beer culture.

• Learn about beer brewing 🍺
• Interactive tours 🎟️
• Good for beer lovers ❤️
• Expensive entrance 💶

5. Ice Bar ❄

Where: Central Amsterdam
Info: Bar made of ice, very cold!

XtraCold Ice Bar is a fun and quirky experience, but most visitors only last a few minutes. It’s a unique spot for a quick photo and story to tell friends.

• Very cold, gloves provided 🧤
• Drinks included 🍹
• Fun for photos ❄️📸
• Short visit, mostly for tourists ⏱️

6. Amsterdam Flower Market 🌷

Where: Singel Canal
Info: Tourist-focused market, not locals’ shopping spot.

The Flower Market is colorful and great for pictures, but flowers are not always fresh, and prices are high. It’s still fun for a short walk and some Instagram shots.

• Mostly souvenirs & flowers 🌸
• Overpriced bulbs 💰
• Beautiful canal-side photos 📷
• Quick stroll is enough 🚶

7. Amsterdam Dungeon 🏰

Where: City center
Info: Dark history themed attraction.

The Dungeon is fun for teens and families, but adults might find it cheesy. It’s a good choice if you like interactive storytelling and spooky fun.

• Interactive shows 🎭
• Can be crowded 👥
• Learn some history 🏛️
• Fun for groups and kids 👨‍👩‍👧

8. Erotic Museum & Sex Museum 🔞

Where: Red Light District
Info: Kitschy adult-focused attractions.

These museums are mainly for tourists looking for a novelty experience. Even if you skip them, walking nearby gives you a sense of Amsterdam’s quirky side.

• Funny and unusual 😆
• Limited learning 📚
• Interesting for first-timers 👀
• Easy to skip if not interested ❌

9. Leidseplein Square 🎭

Where: City center nightlife hub
Info: Popular square with bars & terraces.

Leidseplein is lively but mostly for tourists. Street performers sometimes entertain, and it’s good for people-watching. It’s also a hub for night events and live music.

• Busy nightlife 🍹
• Overpriced drinks 💶
• Some street performances 🎵
• Good for a short stop 👣

10. Overcrowded Souvenir Shops 🛍

Where: Near Central Station & Dam Square
Info: Generic souvenirs, pricey.

Many shops sell low-quality souvenirs. For authentic Dutch gifts, visit smaller local markets in Jordaan. It’s also a good chance to explore nearby streets and cafés.

• High prices, low quality 💰
• Quick stop if needed ⏱️
• Better gifts at local markets 🎁
• Fun photo opportunity 📸

Final Tip: Explore Amsterdam Your Way 🌸🚲

Some areas can be crowded or overhyped, but Amsterdam is still full of charm and hidden gems. To enjoy it fully, consider Amsterdam Bike Taxi.With a bike taxi you can:

• Skip crowds and busy streets 🚴‍♂️
• Access hidden canals and quiet corners 🌊
• Stop for photos anytime 📸
• Have a private and flexible sightseeing tour 🌟

Book your ride now: amsterdam-bike-taxi.com

🌸 Conclusion:

Explore Smart, See the Real Amsterdam 🚲Amsterdam is one of the world’s most beautiful cities — full of canals, cafés, and cozy corners. While some spots are too touristy, the city still has plenty of local gems waiting to be discovered. Take your time to walk, rent a bike, or enjoy a private ride with Amsterdam Bike Taxi for a peaceful and personal sightseeing experience.✨ Skip the crowds, explore local streets, and enjoy Amsterdam your way — naturally, comfortably, and stress-free!