Weird things to do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and cultural richness, also hides a playful side that caters to those in search of out-of-the-ordinary activities. While it’s great to explore some of the city’s mainstream activities, incorporating a bit of the unusual into your schedule can be quite entertaining, no?
About the author: Laura Danielle is co-founder of Comedy Walks: comedy walking tours with a professional stand-up comedian as guide! Amsterdam – Utrecht – Eindhoven
Weird things in amsterdam
If you’re the type of traveller seeking weird things to do in Amsterdam, this city has a treasure trove of quirky and unconventional delights waiting for you to explore. From peculiar activities to eccentric shops, and weird places in Amsterdam, you’re in for a fun adventure as I present a comprehensive compilation of my personal favourite weird things in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam weird things to do
#1 Midget golf in the dark
Glow-in-the-dark mini-golf definitely deserves its spot on this list of weird things to do in amsterdam. Midget golf in the dark, also referred to as “glow-in-the-dark mini-golf” or “blacklight mini-golf,” offers a fresh and unique twist on the traditional daytime version. The use of blacklights and fluorescent elements creates a weird and otherworldly atmosphere that makes it the most fun game of miniature golf that you ever played. It introduces an additional element of challenge as it is much harder to predict the ball’s trajectory. And if this is not enough for you, try to play midget golf in the dark with 3D glasses that you can purchase at the premises!
#3 Red light secrets museum
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to stand behind a red light window in the Amsterdam Red Light District! Well, dressed of course, if you prefer. The Red Light Secrets Museum, in the old centre, is housed in a former brothel and offers you a chance to peek around, learn about the work of prostitutes and actually sit behind a prostitution window with the typical red lights on. That meets all the criteria for weird things in Amsterdam, no? It is a fascinating experience, particularly for those who have never been inside a brothel. Hear the voice of a sex worker on the audio tour as she shares insights into her profession. You can freely walk through the basic and luxury finishing rooms and even the SM room is open for exploration. During the audio tour, you’ll also learn about instances of sexual exploitation and human trafficking, and the Red Light District is no exception in this regard.
#4 Walking or ice-skating on the frozen canals
For all of you coming from a mild or even tropical climate this might sound a bit weird, but one of the most awesome things to do in Amsterdam is walking or ice-skating on the frozen canals. There’s hardly a more authentically Dutch activity than venturing out onto these frozen waterways. The chances of the canals in Amsterdam freezing over largely depend on the prevailing weather conditions. Amsterdam has a temperate maritime climate, and while winters can be cold, it doesn’t always guarantee that the canals will freeze. In recent years, due to climate change and milder winters, it has become less common for the canals to freeze over.
Skating on the frozen canals offers a truly distinctive perspective of the city, allowing you to gracefully (or not so gracefully if you are at beginners level) pass by renowned landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the historical canal houses. Be careful when skating under bridges as the ice is usually thinner here.
#5 Swing Amsterdam
Does riding a swing at a staggering 100 metres above the ground sound weird enough to you? The Swing at A’dam Tower promises an unparalleled perspective. Suspended high above the city, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Amsterdam, complete with its iconic canals, historic landmarks, and the meandering river IJ (pronounced as Eye). This remarkable swing claims the title of the highest in all of Europe. Make sure to add it to your “Amsterdam weird things to do”- list. You can catch a free ferry behind Amsterdam Central Station that will take you across the River IJ.
Weird places in Amsterdam
Apart from weird things to do, Amsterdam is also home to a multitude of weird places. Below, you’ll find my recommendations for the most intriguing weird places in Amsterdam. Believe me or not, but visits to Amsterdam’s most peculiar places will leave a lasting memory of your stay in Amsterdam. You should pick at least two of them!
#6 Museum Vrolik
Museum Vrolik is not for the faint of heart, featuring an extensive collection of approximately 2,000 preserved human bodies, body parts, and animals sealed in glass jars filled with formaldehyde. This alone creates an eerie and surreal atmosphere. To intensify the experience, a significant portion of these individuals grappled with various anatomical abnormalities. It was simultaneously one of the most captivating and disconcerting encounters for me. Out of respect for the deceased individuals on display, photography and filming are strictly prohibited within the museum. It’s worth noting that many of the deceased children were acquired from Parisian children’s homes, adding even more intensity to the museum. The Museum is located inside the AMC Hospital in South-East Amsterdam.
#7 Electric ladyland
If you are into exploring Amsterdam’s wild side or simply interested in a psychedelic experience without taking any drugs, don’t forget to include Electric Ladyland on your list of really weird things to do in Amsterdam. It’s no ordinary museum; it stands as the ultimate hub for fluorescent art, and guess where it’s hidden? Not in some grand hall but snugly nestled in a basement! You got it right. This fluorescent wonderland was born from the passion of artist and owner Nick Padalino, which started as a simple hobby but soon grew into something truly extraordinary. Step into a parallel universe filled with meticulously crafted neon, surreal sculptures, and a treasure trove of rocks and curiosities that come alive under the spell of UV-light.
#8 Condomerie
The Condomerie is undoubtedly one of Amsterdam’s most unusual stores, easily earning its spot on my list of weird places in Amsterdam. It’s a place entirely dedicated to condoms, and this novelty alone can make your visit interesting and entertaining. The store has an extensive selection of condoms in various shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. The funky ones are hand-painting! One of my favourite ones was a condom with Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 racing car on top of it. It is a fun place to look around but know that the Condomerie also offers insights into safe sex, sexual health, and the history of condoms. Their condoms are displayed like ornaments in the window. So even if you don’t go inside, I would definitely recommend taking a stroll past their window. It’s conveniently situated right by Dam Square.
Tevreden wandelaars
Interezand
Vandaag met een grotere groep een geweldige tour gekregen van Jelle. Wat een leuke manier om meer te leren over Utrecht. Zeker een aanrader. Ik heb enorm genoten.
Mark Krishan
De gids was grappig, vertelde interessante weetjes en we hebben een geweldige wandeling door Utrecht gemaakt.
Pim
De comedy walk in Utrecht gedaan. Geweldige tour. Leuke feitjes, goede verhalen en een grappige guide. Een aanrader voor iedereen die Utrecht bezoekt!
De optocht Schaijk
Zaterdag 20 september 2025 de comedy walk in Eindhoven gedaan. Prima ervaring: gezellig, gelachen en genoten! Zeker voor herhaling vatbaar.
Paulien van der Goes
Klantgerichtheid en service staan bij Laura hoog in het vaandel. Daar zouden een hoop bedrijven wat van kunnen leren! Daarom even mijn complimenten