15 Unique Places to Visit in Amsterdam Even Locals Don’t Know About 

Amsterdam is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered beyond the canals, tulips, and bustling city squares. While the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum are must-sees, the real magic of the city lies in its lesser-known spots—places even many locals haven’t stumbled upon.

From secret gardens and underground speakeasies to offbeat museums and floating sanctuaries, these 15 unique places will give you a fresh perspective on Amsterdam. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these spots promise an unforgettable experience.

1. Begijnhof’s Hidden Chapel

Tucked behind an unassuming door in Begijnhof, one of Amsterdam’s oldest courtyards, is a hidden Catholic chapel that dates back to the 17th century. This serene sanctuary was once a secret place of worship during the Protestant Reformation, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s religious history.

The courtyard itself feels like stepping into another era, with its quaint houses and peaceful atmosphere far removed from the city’s usual hustle. To access the chapel, look for the simple wooden door marked “Het Houten Huys”—you’ll be surprised at what lies beyond.

2. Electric Ladyland – The Museum of Fluorescent Art

Ever heard of a museum dedicated to glowing art? Welcome to Electric Ladyland, a psychedelic wonderland where everything shines under UV light. This underground gem, hidden beneath an art gallery, is the world’s only museum focused entirely on fluorescent minerals and glowing installations.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a dreamlike world where ordinary rocks light up in neon colors. The experience is interactive, so you can even become part of the glowing artwork! Booking in advance is essential since only a few visitors are allowed in at a time.

3. Huis Marseille Photography Museum’s Secret Garden

Most people visit Huis Marseille for its thought-provoking photography exhibitions, but few realize that behind this 17th-century canal house lies a hidden garden oasis. This tranquil escape, complete with sculptures and lush greenery, feels worlds away from the busy streets.

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax between sightseeing, this is the perfect place to unwind. The museum itself is a must for photography lovers, showcasing contemporary and historical works in a stunning canal-side setting.

4. REM Eiland – A Restaurant on a Former Pirate Radio Tower

Imagine dining 60 feet above the water in a repurposed pirate radio tower. REM Eiland, once an illegal offshore broadcasting station, has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind restaurant with panoramic views of Amsterdam.

Located in the Houthavens district, this industrial-chic spot serves modern European cuisine while offering an unforgettable sunset dining experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb to the rooftop terrace for an even more spectacular view.

5. The Catboat (De Poezenboot)

Amsterdam is known for its canals, but did you know there’s a floating cat sanctuary? De Poezenboot is home to rescued cats who lounge around on a cozy houseboat. It started as a small rescue operation in the 1960s and has since become a beloved attraction for animal lovers.

Visitors are welcome to stop by, meet the cats, and even adopt one if they’re looking for a furry travel companion. Entrance is free, but donations are appreciated to help care for the cats.

6. TonTon Club – Amsterdam’s Arcade Bar

Hidden in the Red Light District, TonTon Club is where nostalgia meets nightlife. This arcade bar is packed with retro video games, pinball machines, and quirky Japanese-style gaming booths, making it a fun escape from the usual bar scene.

Sip on craft beers while battling it out on Pac-Man, air hockey, or Dance Dance Revolution. If you’re in the mood for something truly unique, challenge a friend to a game of Japanese “pachinko” while enjoying a side of sake.

7. The Upside Down Amsterdam

Step into a world where gravity doesn’t exist at The Upside Down Amsterdam, the largest interactive Instagram museum in Europe. Designed for mind-bending photo ops, this space is filled with upside-down rooms, infinity mirrors, and surreal sets.

From floating in a pink neon-lit pool to “climbing” the walls of a futuristic bedroom, this spot guarantees unforgettable pictures and plenty of laughs. If you love optical illusions and immersive experiences, add this to your Amsterdam itinerary.

8. NDSM Werf – Amsterdam’s Urban Art Playground

Once a shipyard, now a creative hotspot, NDSM Werf is a mecca for street art lovers and indie culture enthusiasts. The area is filled with massive murals, repurposed shipping containers, and pop-up galleries showcasing cutting-edge artwork.

Visit on weekends for flea markets and food festivals, or stop by Pllek, a waterfront beach bar made from old shipping containers, where you can sip cocktails with your feet in the sand.

9. The Secret Rooftop at the Nemo Science Museum

Most visitors come to NEMO Science Museum for its interactive exhibits, but few know about its free rooftop terrace, offering some of the best views of the city. Designed like an amphitheater, this public space is perfect for sunsets and skyline photos.

Grab a coffee from the rooftop café and soak in panoramic views over Amsterdam’s historic center. Even if you don’t visit the museum itself, the rooftop alone is worth the trip.

10. Museum Vrolik – The City’s Strangest Collection

For those who love the weird and wonderful, Museum Vrolik is one of the most bizarre places in Amsterdam. Tucked inside the University of Amsterdam’s medical center, this collection of anatomical oddities includes preserved human specimens, rare skulls, and even conjoined twins in jars.

It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re fascinated by medical history and human anatomy, this is one of the most unique museums in the Netherlands.

11. The House with the Blood Stains

On the corner of Kloveniersburgwal, an old canal house bears strange red stains on its facade. Legend has it that this house was once the scene of a gruesome murder, and no matter how many times the owners tried to clean it, the stains kept reappearing.

Whether you believe the ghost story or not, this eerie spot makes for an intriguing stop while exploring Amsterdam’s historic center.

12. Hiding in Plain Sight – The Secret Cocktail Bar

As the name suggests, Hiding in Plain Sight is one of Amsterdam’s best speakeasies, hidden behind an unmarked door near Nieuwmarkt. Step inside, and you’ll find intimate seating, candlelit tables, and some of the best craft cocktails in the city.

To get in, you’ll need a reservation, but once inside, the expertly mixed drinks and stylish 1920s ambiance make it worth the effort. Try their signature “Smokey Old Fashioned” for a unique twist on a classic.

13. Westerpark’s Secret Treehouse Bar

Deep inside Westerpark, there’s a hidden treehouse bar where locals gather for drinks under the stars. This off-the-grid hangout, known as TonTon Club Treehouse, is a cozy escape with fairy lights, hammocks, and craft beers on tap.

Since it’s not widely advertised, the best way to find it is by asking a friendly local or following the sound of music and laughter deep into the park.

14. The Floating Tulip Garden

Everyone visits Keukenhof for tulips, but few know about Amsterdam’s floating tulip garden on the Singel Canal. This seasonal attraction features hundreds of tulips floating on water, creating a stunning, colorful display right in the heart of the city.

Visit during March and April for the best blooms and a unique take on the classic Dutch tulip experience.

15. The Tower of Silence

Nestled in the De Nieuwe Ooster Cemetery, the Tower of Silence is a rare sight in Europe. This hauntingly beautiful structure was inspired by Zoroastrian funeral rituals, where bodies were traditionally left in towers to be “cleansed” by nature.

It’s a quiet, introspective spot that offers a different side of Amsterdam’s history and cultural influences.