Sunday in Amsterdam is the day when locals take a break and the city vibrates. The Dutch capital is full of life and offers many options for leisure and exploration.
What to do on a Sunday
Are you living in Amsterdam and have run out of ideas on how to spend your Sundays? Or perhaps you are just visiting but haven’t figured out your itinerary yet. Whether you're a local, newly-arrived, or a tourist, you can try one of these popular Sunday activities to enjoy your time in Amsterdam to the fullest.
Take a walk in one of its parks
Vondelpark is the green lung of Amsterdam and its biggest park. If you're looking to escape the city streets and find somewhere to unwind, this is the perfect spot for having a chill Sunday. Here you can have a picnic with friends and family, or just stroll around with your dog. Vondelpark invites everyone to enjoy nature in the heart of Amsterdam.
If you want to explore some other parks in Amsterdam, there are over 30 of them to pick from! Unlike some of the city parks, which can get busy, especially when the weather is fine, the Amsterdamse Bos provides a quieter experience, as it is located away from the city centre. With a size of almost 1.000 hectares, this vast forest is great for any activity, such as walking, cycling and swimming!
Explore street art
Amsterdam is the place to be for fans of street art. Street art began as a countercultural movement in the 1970s and 1980s, and graffiti and mural art are still alive and kicking in the capital of the Netherlands. You'll find examples on almost any walk around the city, but the best place to start is the famous "Street Art Platanenweg".
The Dutch capital is also home to several famous murals. Do not miss the mural of Anne Frank, “Let Me Be Myself”, by Eduardo Kobra, which is located on NDSM-Plein. This artwork is a powerful statement about the horrors of WWII and pays tribute to the life of Anne Frank, immortalising her legacy.
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Visit a museum or art gallery
Amsterdam is rich in culture and history, which is reflected in the high number of museums. The Dutch capital is home to a total of 75 museums - that’s a lot to choose from! A Sunday is the perfect time to start crossing them off your list.
For a deep dive into Dutch history, consider the iconic Rijksmuseum, home to famous works by renowned Dutch painters like Rembrandt and Vermeer. You can also take a deep dive into the complicated life and captivating work of one of the Netherlands' most famous artists at the Van Gogh Museum. For modern and contemporary art, visit the Stedelijk Museum, which features works by Picasso and Warhol.
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Catch a movie
If it's Sunday and you've got the whole day free, why not spend a few hours at the movies? Amsterdam is home to one of the most beautiful cinemas in the world - Tuschinski. Opened in 1921 and built in the Art Deco style, Tuschinski is the place to watch films in style. Its setting transports visitors back to the golden age of cinema, making it a cultural landmark.
You could also go catch a movie at the famous EyeFilm Institute, a film museum cum cinema housed in an eyecatching building on the northern bank of the River IJ. The museum's film collection dates all the way back to 1896, while the permanent exhibition charts the development of film from its beginnings to the present day. On top of this, the institute showcases a diverse programme of films every day, from contemporary to classic works in multiple different languages. You can find something for all tastes here.
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Cruise on the canals
Amsterdam’s canals are one of the city's main attractions and a key facet in the city's unique charm. If you are looking for a low-effort and tranquil activity where you can sit and take in Amsterdam's beautiful architecture as you float by, then add this to your bucket list.
Taking a boat cruise on a Sunday is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the water scenery in Amsterdam. Exploring Amsterdam by boat gives a unique perspective of the city's canals and historic Dutch buildings. Many organised tours run from morning to evening, so do not miss seeing the city from a different perspective.
Indulge in world cuisine
Amsterdam's rich culinary scene is driven by its cultural diversity and trade history. For international flavours, head to De Pijp district where you can find exquisite East-Asian restaurants.
Another great spot for trying out different sorts of food from all over the world is the Foodhallen, located in Amsterdam West. Here, you can easily spend the whole day browsing through various stands, so bring your friends over to try out diverse dishes!
Never get bored in Amsterdam on a Sunday
Amsterdam is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with modern culture, offering opportunities for every taste. The possibilities are endless, from visiting fascinating museums and seeing world-famous artworks to cruising on the historical Dutch canals. Amsterdam on a Sunday is never boring!