10 Must-See Sights in Queer-Friendly Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the world – from carefree weed smokers to the sex workers on display in the Red Light District. Clearly, we’re free to be our authentic queer selves in this city – and we’re here for it!
Just in case you haven’t made it to the city yet, we’re offering up our list of the best sights – beyond the Canal Pride Parade – to consider for your first or future trip to experience Amsterdam and all its beauty.
LGBTQ+ Bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to more than 30 bars, and there’s something for everyone regardless of your kink, fetish, or pleasure. For a gay cruising spot, check out the Eagle Amsterdam on Sundays for its Nude Nights. And what you don’t find there you can probably find it in Sauna Nieuwezijds or one of the adult bookstores around town. The all-welcoming vibe of Club Church, Drag queen haven Café The Queen’s Head, cozy Spijker Bar, super popular Café Montmarte, and the lesbian/trans-friendly Café Saarein are only a fraction of the bars that queer revelers will find in Amsterdam.
A’DAM Lookout
Get spectacular 360-degree views from 328 feet above Amsterdam on this popular attraction’s Sky Deck. The A’DAM Lookout also features a panoramic restaurant, rooftop bar, and a virtual reality rollercoaster ride through the city. Thrill-seeking queers can hop onto Europe’s highest swing over the edge of the sky deck, but don’t leave here without taking a photo in front of the A’DAM sign! #Instaworthy
Rijksmuseum
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this iconic museum is a must-visit attraction that features more than 8,000 works of art from Dutch and European history, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gough. As part of the Amsterdam Pride Festival, the Rijksmuseum is currently featuring A Pink History Tourthat delves into the museum’s collection to chart the changing views on homosexuality in the Netherlands over the years and in-depth queer stories about sexuality and gender in all shapes and sizes.
Red Light District
This is one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods. Sex workers hock their “wares” via red-lit shop windows while pedestrians pass by in the Red Light District, Amsterdam’s oldest neighborhood. This neighborhood is also home to monuments, churches, and squares; so, it’s worth a visit.
Anne Frank House
Visit the 17th-century Anne Frank House, which now doubles as a museum and education center. Anne Frank and her family lived in the canal house for two years to hide from the Nazis for two years. It’s a must for queer history buffs! Seeing the cramped, secret quarters in the house is a chilling reminder of the dark history of World War II.
Van Gough Museum
More than two million people visit this museum every year! Without a doubt, the real draw is the collection of 200 paintings by Dutch native Vincent van Gough. Drawings and letters dive into the artist’s depression as well as a video installation that charts the famous post-Impressionist painter’s rise to fame.
Boat Tour of Amsterdam’s Canals
You can’t leave Amsterdam without taking the quintessential boat tour along the intricate canal system as the guide reveals some of the city’s history. Instead of walking, this is the perfect stress-free way to explore the city. There are several tour operators available and some offer dinner or sip-and-sightsee excursions with smaller groups – perfect for a romantic date. Head to the Centraal area where most boat tours depart.
EYE Film Museum
From classics to blockbusters to cult films, you will find an extensive collection of outstanding film history at this museum – more than 54,000 films from all genres to be exact. Located on Amsterdam’s IJ Harbor, the EYE Film Museum features four cinemas or theaters, an exhibition space, a floor dedicated to educational activities, a shop, and a bar-restaurant.
Vondelpark
Once known as a cruisy park where full-on sex was allowed (now illegal), Vondelpark is where locals and tourists come to run, cycle, play sports, or just chill. It’s not uncommon to smell the scent of marijuana wafting in the air. However, there isn’t of shortage of green space for you to find your own serene spot. Enjoy the beautiful rose garden, a show in the open-air theater, or just have a relaxing day in the sun with your closest friends.
Moco Museum Amsterdam
It’s probably not as popular as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gough Museum, but if you’re an LGBTQ+ vacationer that enjoys pop art and work by famous graffiti artists, then head to the Moco Museum Amsterdam! Exhibitions at the private museum include works of Modern Art by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring. For street art lovers, you’ll be happy to know that graffiti rock star Banky also has his work on display at the Moco, including the iconic “Girl with Balloon.” Also check out THE KID’s artwork, which was created to make us question the notions of power and privilege. If you like this museum, you should check out the STRAAT Museum, too!
