Amsterdam is known for its slightly risque red light district and a place where you can eat or smoke cannabis products legally. It is a top destination for a single lads trip / stag do. But there are plenty of other things that are possible in this great city to celebrate that special day.
Let’s get straight in to the list of the top 10 ideas for spending your birthday in Amsterdam:
1. Canal Cruise
Amsterdam being famous for its canals, is there any better way to enjoy a birthday than with a relaxing tour of the city from the water?
There are so many different options you can take, from hop on and hop off options so you can make a plan to see or do certain things as you use the boat as your mode of Amsterdam transport.
To a romantic meal in the evening on a canal boat to celebrate a great day of exploring in the city.
If you are wanting to hop on and off check out this page
Looking for a meal option then this is where you want to be, you can also just look for group cruises and just ones that are more centered around drinking, find the options here.
2. Visit Museums
Amsterdam has many world-class museums. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House are just a few popular options. So if you are into your museums and art then some of these options are a must as they are world-famous.
To book the Van Gogh museum, you can buy a ticket here. For other museums I would recommend a Go City Amsterdam Pass, this has The Rijksmuseum on there plus you could combine with a visit to the Heineken Experience and many more. I would say do the Inclusive Pass if you are going for 2 days or more and cram in as much as you can!
3. Rent a bike
In Netherlands people use bikes to get around and the infrastructure is there to get the most out of it. If you fancy living like a local then rent a bike and maybe explore the city / suburbs. You could pack some drinks and food, find a nice spot to have a relaxing birthday meal in an Amsterdam park.
Renting bikes is super easy with lots of companies offering this service. If you just want a bike and do your own thing then I’d say do it locally. If you want something organised then book in advance. You can find the options here.
4. Vondelpark
Certainly weather dependent and like the Central park of Amsterdam. This place is perfect to walk around and enjoy nature within the city limits. Take a birthday picnic and just let time pass as you enjoy your birthday meal and surroundings.
Located in the Oud-Zuid (Old South) neighbourhood of Amsterdam, you can easily get there by public transport. The Park was opened in 1865 and is named after a Dutch Playwright and Poet.
Within the park there are cafes and restaurants, kids play areas, sculptures. There also might be an event on, so best to check in advance.
5. Food and Drink
Amsterdam has a vibrant culinary scene. Enjoy a birthday meal at a local restaurant, try Dutch pancakes or Indonesian rijsttafel, or go for a traditional Dutch herring. There are lots of different options and I would say to just wander the streets and see what takes your fancy.
But areas to head to if you want to plan in advance would be Dam Square and Spui. I would also recommend heading to Leidseplein for great food options.
6. Coffee Shops and Bars
If you’re into it, Amsterdam is known for its coffee shops where you can legally purchase and consume cannabis, most first timers will want to get an edible in the form of a brownie, just make sure you are responsible and don’t over do it as you don’t feel anything at first and keep eating more, then it hits you!
Alternatively, check out some of the city’s famous bars and breweries for a more traditional experience. As mentioned the Heineken experience is a must, like going to Dublin and the Guinness factory.
A few recommendations for bars to visit are Cafe Zilt, which is located towards the Central Amsterdam train station. Cafe de Kroegtijger located just a few mins walk from Cafe Zilt. Do check times of opening as most places will open later than you think.
7. Red Light District
There is so much going on at the Red Light district, you can:
Attend shows such as Moulin Rouge or burlesque routines. These venues are part of the district’s long history of theatrical performances.
Visit Unique Shops, the district has an array of quirky shops and boutiques, selling items ranging from souvenirs to unusual novelties.
Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution, this museum provides an insightful look into the lives of sex workers in Amsterdam. It’s housed in a former brothel and offers a unique perspective on the industry.
Food and Drink: The area has a variety of restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisine. You can try Dutch pancakes, Indonesian rijsttafel, or enjoy a meal at a canal-side restaurant.
Amsterdam Dungeon: If you’re interested in a mix of history and entertainment for your birthday, you can visit the Amsterdam Dungeon, a tourist attraction that offers interactive shows based on historical events with a dark twist.
Photography: The district’s unique character and architecture make it a popular spot for photographers.
8. Rooftop Bar
If the weather permits then I would recommend a rooftop bar. There are many to choose from. You can go to quirky ones or more established hotel ones. Budget does come into it too unless you fancy a birthday splash-out. The ones I would recommend are:
Gapp
Located on the 8th floor of the Casa Hotel, where you can enjoy views of Amsterdam Oost while enjoying one of the many craft beers they have on tap.
Floor 17
Located in theLeonardo Hotel Amsterdam, standing 85 metres above Rembrandt Park. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner as this place is open much of the day.
9. Mini Golf at Amstelpark
Who doesn’t like a nice friendly competitive game of mini golf. Well then look no further as this can be fun if it’s just you and one other or a group.
Again this is weather dependent and needs to be warm/ clear. But you are surrounded by greenery in this quirky little course.
10. Michelin star restaurant
If this celebration is extra special then why not go get some of the best food in the world, at a Michelin star restaurant. You know for a fact you are going to get a top quality feed.
Options include, Aan de Poel, Daalder and Lastage. As you can imagine this isn’t a cheap night out but certainly will be a night and meal to remember.