What NOT to Do in Amsterdam: 24 Costly Mistakes & Essential Tips

Amsterdam might seem like a place where anything goes, but honestly, that’s just not true. If you want to soak up the city without getting on anyone’s nerves or missing out, you need to know what not to do. I’ve watched way too many travelers waste their trip by making the same avoidable mistakes.

You might think wandering will show you the “real” Amsterdam, but skipping certain neighborhoods or ignoring local customs? That can backfire fast.

Treating the canals like just another photo op and ignoring the rules on bikes or trams? Locals notice, and not in a good way.

Some spots—like De Wallen—deserve respect, not just curiosity. If you breeze past the art, history, and those little hidden gems, you’ll leave with only half the story.

Key Takeaways

• Respect local laws, customs, and spaces
• Explore beyond the main tourist areas
• Mix famous sights with offbeat experiences

Ignoring Local Laws and Etiquette

Amsterdam’s a city that runs on a mix of unspoken social rules and really clear laws. People here expect you to follow both. Break them, and you might get a fine, a death stare, or just a cringeworthy travel story to bring home.

1. Disregarding Bicycle Rules

Amsterdam’s bike lanes aren’t just extra pavement—they’re the city’s main highways. Locals ride fast, sometimes with kids or a week’s worth of groceries on board, and they won’t slow down for tourists who wander into their path.

Step into a bike lane without looking, and you’ll probably get yelled at or maybe even hit. Always check for cyclists before you cross, and stick to the sidewalk when you’re on foot.

If you rent a bike, just copy what the locals do:

• Ride on the right side of the lane.
• Signal with your hand before turning.
• Don’t block traffic while you snap photos.

I once watched a tourist stop smack in the middle of a bike lane to check Google Maps—three cyclists swerved, and one shouted something very Dutch (and, let’s say, not very friendly). Don’t be that person.

2. Misusing Coffeeshops

Coffeeshops in Amsterdam aren’t for cappuccinos—they sell cannabis. If you’re looking for a latte, consider a café instead. Tourists still wander in, order an espresso, and end up confused—or, worse, accidentally high.

If you plan to partake, remember: it’s for personal use only, and you can’t smoke in public spaces outside designated areas. Lighting up in parks, on the street, or in your hotel? That’s illegal.

Pace yourself. The stuff here is usually a lot stronger than what you might be used to. I’ve seen more than one visitor lose an afternoon to a space cake they thought was “just a brownie.”

3. Underestimating Pedestrian Zones

Some streets in Amsterdam are only, especially around busy shopping areas and the city center. Motorbikes, scooters, and even bikes often aren’t allowed in these zones, and ignoring those signs can get you fined.

Pedestrian zones have their flow. People stop to window-shop or stare at the canals. If you rush through or try to cycle, you’ll annoy everyone.

Watch for street markings and posted signs—they’re usually pretty clear. If you’re unsure, just follow the crowd. Honestly, it’s the easiest way to avoid dirty looks and trouble.

Overlooking Cultural Highlights

Amsterdam’s magic isn’t just in its canals and cafés—it’s tucked into the cultural treasures squeezed into a few city blocks. Miss them, and you’ll leave without understanding what makes this place special. Some of these spots? Honestly, you’ll remember them for life.

4. Skipping Major Museums

If you stroll past the Rijksmuseum without stepping inside, you’re missing Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid—the kind of masterpieces you’ve only seen in books. Even the building itself is worth a look, with its grand halls and little nooks.

The Van Gogh Museum gets crowded, sure, but seeing his self‑portraits or Sunflowers up close? It’s a whole different experience. You’ll remember it, I promise.

And don’t skip the Stedelijk Museum if you’re curious about modern and contemporary art. Even if you’re not a big “modern art” person, the mix of Picasso, Mondrian, and new exhibitions can surprise you. The Amsterdam Museum is smaller but gives you a quick, fascinating look at the city’s story from the Golden Age to now.

5. Missing Out on Museumplein

Museumplein isn’t just a park surrounded by museums—it’s the cultural heart of Amsterdam. You can easily lose a whole day here without realizing it. The open space is perfect for a picnic between museum stops, and in winter, you’ll even find an ice rink.

It’s also super easy to plan your day here. The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum all sit within a few minutes’ walk of each other. No long tram rides, no complicated routes—just step outside one, grab a coffee, and head to the next.

If you only wander through without going inside, you’re kind of missing the point. Even locals hang out here for exhibitions, open-air concerts, and seasonal events. It’s one of those rare places where big-name culture and daily life mix.

6. Neglecting the Amsterdam City Card

The I amsterdam City Card (or just the Amsterdam City Card) isn’t just a touristy gimmick. If you plan to hit more than a couple of museums, it can save you a lot—money and time.

It covers entry to the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, Amsterdam Museum, and a bunch more, plus public transport. No fumbling for tickets or trying to figure out tram fares. Just scan and go.

I’ve used it on trips where I didn’t even have a plan—just checked the list in the morning and picked a few places. It nudges you toward smaller, off-the-radar museums you might otherwise skip. And since so many top spots are included, you won’t be second-guessing if a visit is “worth it.”

See Related: Best Cities in Europe to Enjoy Winter Without the Crowds

Being Disrespectful in De Wallen

De Wallen isn’t just some tourist oddity—it’s a real neighborhood where people live and work. The area has its own rules, unspoken etiquette, and a history locals take seriously. Treating it like a theme park? You’ll get yourself in trouble or just make everyone uncomfortable.

7. Taking Photos in the Red Light District

Snapping a quick pic of the glowing windows or narrow alleys might seem harmless, but photographing sex workers in De Wallen is strictly off-limits. Workers see it as a real violation of privacy, and if you try, you might get called out—loudly. Some will call the police, others might confront you right there.

Signs everywhere say not to take photos. They’re not just suggestions—they exist to protect the people working behind the glass.

If you want to capture the vibe, stick to shots of canals, old buildings, or street scenes away from the windows. Early mornings are best for photos—fewer crowds, less risk of breaking the rules.

Quick tip: Keep your phone in your pocket when you pass the red-lit windows. Even pretending to check messages can make workers think you’re sneaking a picture.

8. Disruptive Behavior at Night

De Wallen gets wild after dark, and it’s easy to get swept up in the party mood. But remember, people live here. Loud shouting, drunken singing, or blocking narrow streets? Locals notice, and not in a good way.

Police and wardens patrol the area, and fines for public drunkenness or rowdy behavior aren’t cheap. I’ve seen tourists get escorted out before their night even started.

If you’re hitting bars or coffeeshops, take it easy. Keep your group small, don’t spill into the street, and don’t treat the area like a free-for-all. The quieter you are, the more you’ll notice—like the old houses leaning over the canals.

• Do: Respect noise limits after 9–10 PM.
• Don’t: Shout across the street or blast music from a speaker.

9. Ignoring Local Customs

One of the fastest ways to offend people in De Wallen is to ignore the culture that keeps it running smoothly. It’s not just about big rules—it’s about the small courtesies.

Don’t gawk at workers like they’re a sideshow. A quick look is fine, but lingering or making rude comments isn’t. Locals also get annoyed by groups clogging up the middle of the street, blocking bikes and deliveries.

Coffeeshops aren’t bars. If you order cannabis, you’re expected to use it there or in a designated spot—not while you stroll past the windows. And if you’re not buying anything, don’t hang around inside.

When I first visited, a bartender told me, “If you act like you’re in someone’s home, you’ll be fine.” That advice stuck with me. It’s a simple way to avoid stepping on toes in a place that’s both a workplace and a community.

Missing Authentic Neighborhood Experiences

A lot of visitors never wander far from Amsterdam’s postcard canals and end up missing places where the city’s real character comes alive. The best neighborhoods are often just outside the main tourist drag, with their own rhythms and stories. Skip them, and you only see a fraction of what makes this city tick.

10. Overlooking Jordaan

Jordaan was once a working-class district, but now it’s one of the most charming parts of Amsterdam. You’ll find narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and independent shops that don’t scream “tourist trap.”

If you only stick to Dam Square or the Museum Quarter, you’ll miss the quiet beauty of its canals and the brown cafés where locals still gather. I once spent an afternoon here just wandering, ducking into a cheese shop, and chatting with the owner about Gouda aging times. That kind of thing is hard to find in the busier parts of town.

Tip: Go early or late. The crowds thin out, and you can hear the church bells from Westerkerk echoing through the streets.

Don’t miss:

• Noordermarkt on market days (antiques on Monday, organic food on Saturday)
• The tiny art galleries hidden in residential blocks
• Fresh apple pie at Winkel 43

11. Ignoring NDSM

NDSM, a former shipyard turned creative hotspot across the IJ River in Amsterdam-Noord, isn’t somewhere you’ll just stumble upon—you need to take the free ferry from Centraal Station. That short ride drops you into a different vibe.

Think massive street art murals, warehouses-turned-cafés, and shipping container hangouts. It’s industrial, a little gritty, but honestly, it feels alive. I once went to a flea market and ended up spending the whole day, bouncing from a vintage shop to a brewery without even noticing the time.

If you’re into photography, this place is a goldmine. The graffiti changes all the time, so even if you’ve been before, it’s worth another look.

Practical tip: The ferry runs often, but check the schedule if you’re heading back late. It gets pretty quiet at night.

12. Sticking Only to Tourist Hotspots

It’s so tempting to hang out just in the Red Light District, Damrak, or along the main museum stretch. Don’t get me wrong—these spots are famous for a reason. But honestly, they barely scratch the surface of Amsterdam.

If you skip the smaller neighborhoods, you’ll miss the food stalls at Albert Cuyp Markt in De Pijp, the laid-back vibe of Westerpark, or the everyday charm of Oud-West. This is where real Amsterdammers shop, chill, and live their lives.

When I finally broke free from the usual tourist circuit, I stumbled into a tiny bakery on Kinkerstraat. The stroopwafel was still warm, caramel dripping everywhere, and the baker just gave me a nod—no chaos, no crowds.

Better alternatives to mix in:

Neighborhood	Why Visit	Highlight
De Pijp	Street markets, diverse food	Albert Cuyp Markt
Westerpark	Green space + culture	Westergas Creative Complex
Oud-West	Local shops, cafés	Vondelpark access

Making Transportation Mistakes

If you don’t figure out Amsterdam’s transport quirks, the city can wear you out fast. Bike rules, public transit, even the canals—get these wrong, and you’ll waste time or end up frustrated.

13. Not Using Bikes Correctly

Amsterdam runs on bikes, but it’s not just for show. Locals zip around like pros, and they expect you to keep up.

If you rent a bike, stick to the fietspaden (bike lanes). Don’t drift onto the sidewalks or stop dead in the middle of traffic for a photo. Need to check directions? Pull over to the side—no one wants a pileup.

Always signal with your hand before turning, and ride on the right so speed demons can pass. I know a lot of locals skip helmets, but if you’re not used to city cycling, just wear one. Better safe than sorry.

When you park, use two locks. Bike theft is a real thing here, and rental shops won’t let you off the hook if yours disappears.

14. Forgetting Public Transit Options

Lots of visitors walk everywhere and end up dragging themselves by midday. Amsterdam’s public transport—trams, buses, ferries—can save your legs.

Grab a rechargeable OV-chipkaart or a multi-day pass if you’re bouncing around. Trams are perfect for hopping to De Pijp or Westerpark without a long slog.

Don’t overlook the free ferries behind Centraal Station. They’ll zip you across the IJ River to Amsterdam Noord, where you’ll find parks, wild bars, and the A’DAM Lookout.

If you sketch out your routes before heading out, you can blend walking, cycling, and transit for max efficiency. For longer trips, like day tours out of town, booking ahead can save you a headache—especially if you’re juggling flights and hotels.

15. Neglecting Canal Cruises

The canals aren’t just for Instagram—they’re a legit way to see the city. If you skip a canal cruise, you’re missing out on a view you simply can’t get by foot.

Pick from open boats, classic wooden saloon boats, or the bigger, glass-topped ones. Evening cruises are magic—the city lights ripple on the water, and the whole place feels dreamy.

Some boats let you hop on and off, so you can hit up museums or markets without doubling back. If your feet are killing you, this is your ticket to keep exploring. Yeah, the big tourist boats get crowded, but honestly, they’re a chill way to get your bearings and learn the city’s layout before you venture out solo.

Underestimating the Value of Outdoor Spaces

Amsterdam’s not just about canals and nightlife. The city’s best bits often happen outside, where locals hang out. If you ignore these spots, you’ll miss the rhythm that makes Amsterdam tick.

16. Missing Vondelpark

Vondelpark isn’t just a park—it’s Amsterdam’s communal living room. People jog before work, families picnic, musicians busk for coins.

If you stick to the busy shopping streets, you’ll miss this laid-back side of the city. The park sprawls nearly 50 hectares, with winding paths, ponds, and random sculptures tucked away.

Bring a snack or grab a stroopwafel nearby, then plop down on a bench. Watch the cyclists whiz past and soak it in. It’s the perfect place to give your feet a break after hours on the cobblestones—and trust me, you’ll need it.

17. Overlooking A’DAM Lookout

A’DAM Lookout isn’t just a tall building—it’s the only place you can see the whole city, the IJ, and even the countryside in one go. The free ferry from Centraal Station takes minutes, but a lot of people just don’t cross.

The observation deck lays out Amsterdam’s shape in a way that helps you get your bearings. There’s a wild “Over the Edge” swing if you’re feeling brave, but even if you skip it, the rooftop bar is worth the trip.

If you can, time your visit for sunset. Watching the canals glow from above—now that’s a memory that’ll outlast any souvenir.

18. Skipping Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans can feel a bit touristy, but it’s hands-down the easiest way to see working windmills without a long trek. It’s just a 20-minute train ride, and you can walk there from the station in no time.

The place is set up like an open-air museum with traditional greenhouses, cheese-making demos, and clog workshops. Sure, it’s a little staged, but you get the real deal: fresh sawdust from the mills, the creak of wood in the breeze.

Never seen a windmill in action? Here’s your shot. Go early before the buses roll in, and you’ll have the paths mostly to yourself.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Europe This Year

Skipping Unique Attractions and Day Trips

There’s way more to Amsterdam than canals and coffeeshops. Some experiences are so woven into the city’s fabric that missing them means missing out on real Dutch culture. A little planning can fit these gems into your trip.

19. Missing the Heineken Experience

If you’re into interactive stuff, the Heineken Experience is a couple of hours well spent. It’s not just a brewery tour—you’ll walk through the brand’s history, check out vintage gear, and even pour your beer.

You can go at your own pace, lingering wherever catches your eye. Tastings along the way? Yes, please.

Even if beer isn’t your thing, the design and displays are surprisingly cool. But if you do love a pint, this is the place to try it fresh. Book ahead through platforms listing things to do in Amsterdam to dodge the lines.

20. Neglecting the Nemo Science Museum

The Nemo Science Museum isn’t just for kids. Sure, children love it, but the hands-on exhibits suck in adults, too. You’ll mess around with physics, chemistry, tech—fun stuff, and not at all dry.

The building itself is wild, shaped like a giant green ship parked on the waterfront. The rooftop terrace? One of the best free city views, no joke.

Traveling with family? Easy win. Even solo or with friends, you’ll find yourself tinkering with gadgets and learning by accident. It’s a nice break from art museums and gives you a taste of Dutch creativity.

21. Ignoring Concertgebouw Performances

The Concertgebouw ranks among the world’s top concert halls, thanks to its mind-blowing acoustics. Even if classical music isn’t your usual jam, catching a live show here can be a trip highlight.

They host everything from symphonies to jazz, and weekday lunchtime concerts are often free or super cheap. These quick sets slide right into a packed day of sightseeing.

The hall’s interior is gorgeous—ornate but somehow cozy. If you’ve ever wanted to hear music in a space built for it, this is your chance. Don’t just snap a photo outside—go in and listen.

22. Forgetting About Muiderslot and Keukenhof

Just outside the city, Muiderslot Castle drops you straight into medieval Dutch history. The place dates back to the 13th century, complete with a moat, towers, and gardens. You can wander through furnished rooms, climb the battlements, and imagine knights wandering around.

In spring, Keukenhof Gardens explodes with tulips and blooms. It’s only open for a couple of months, so check your timing.

Both are easy day trips, and you can bundle them with other sights if you book guided day tours. Skipping them means missing two totally different but equally Dutch experiences—one rooted in old stories, the other in pure color.

Failing to Appreciate Amsterdam’s Art and History

Amsterdam isn’t just bikes and canals. The city’s packed with art and history, you can stroll right past if you’re not looking. If you skip these, you’re missing the secret sauce that makes this place so fascinating.

23. Overlooking Rembrandt and Vermeer Sites

You probably know Rembrandt and Vermeer from school, but standing in front of their work is something else. The Rijksmuseum houses Vermeer’s The Milkmaid and a bunch of Rembrandt masterpieces, like The Night Watch. These aren’t just pretty pictures—they’re snapshots of Dutch life centuries ago.

Don’t skip the Rembrandt House, where the artist lived and painted. It’s tucked away on a quiet street, and the studio setup feels like a time machine.

Some walking tours will guide you past Rembrandt’s old haunts—where he sketched, shopped, or just hung out. These details make the city feel so much richer.

Quick tip:

Site	Why Visit	Location
Rijksmuseum	See iconic works by both Rembrandt & Vermeer	Museumplein
Rembrandt House	Explore the artist’s preserved home and studio	Jodenbreestraat

24. Missing Out on I Amsterdam Photo Spots

The I amsterdam sign isn’t just a tourist magnet—it’s a city icon. The big one that used to sit outside the Rijksmuseum now pops up at Schiphol Airport and events.

Snapping a photo here might be cliché, but honestly, it’s a fun way to mark your trip. If you’re with friends or family, it’s a classic group shot.

But don’t just grab your pic and bolt. The Museumplein area is full of green space, fountains, and street performers. If you’re already there, why not picnic or wander into a museum?

One mistake people make? Rushing the photo and missing the vibe. Try different angles, show up early for fewer crowds, and enjoy the moment.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with the Van Gogh Museum—it’s right next door, and you’re already in the neighborhood.

See Related: Travel Tips Rick Steves Swears By That Most Tourists Never Learn

Frequently Asked Questions

Amsterdam’s a blast to explore, but it’s surprisingly easy to hit a snag if you don’t know the lay of the land. A little street smarts goes a long way—especially if you know what to skip, how to act, and which local rules matter in real life. Trust me, you’ll save yourself some awkward moments and maybe even a few euros.

Book Your Dream Experience

More Travel Guides