Amsterdam Pass: 45+ Things To Do – Includes Rijksmuseum

Traveling to Amsterdam and considering a sightseeing pass? Our review of the Amsterdam Pass by Go City covers everything you need to know before making that purchase. This pass promises access to over 40 attractions, offering a practical way to explore the city without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning just a quick visit or a longer stay, it might be the ticket to maximizing your time and enjoying authentic experiences.

What we particularly like about this pass is how easy it is to use — no paper tickets needed, just a digital pass on your phone. Plus, the significant savings of up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets make it appealing. The variety of attractions is another strong point, giving you options from art and history to fun activities like canal cruises and even a visit to a windmill village.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention issues with downloading tickets and the need for reservations at certain venues. While these hiccups can be frustrating, they are manageable with some planning. This pass suits travelers who want a flexible, cost-effective way to see Amsterdam’s highlights and don’t mind a bit of pre-planning for reservations.

If you’re eager to explore at your own pace, enjoy cultural treasures, and experience some of the iconic sights and hidden gems of Amsterdam, this pass could be a great fit. Let’s break down what’s included and what it means for your trip.

Key Points

• Flexibility and Convenience: Choose from 1, 2, 3, or 5 days, with a digital pass that’s easy to carry on your phone.
• Cost Savings: Save up to 50% compared to purchasing individual tickets.
• Broad Attraction Range: Over 40 attractions including world-class museums, boat cruises, and unique tours.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes lesser-known sites like the Houseboat Museum, a brothel tour, and a diamond experience.
• Some Reservations Needed: A few activities, like Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof, require advance booking.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the ease of use and value, some report technical issues and logistical hiccups.

Overall Impressions and Why It Works

The Amsterdam Pass by Go City is a well-rounded way to explore the city without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Its biggest draw is the value for money—saving you potentially hundreds on entry fees — and the variety of attractions it covers. From the classic Rijksmuseum to the modern Moco Museum, this pass caters to diverse interests.

In terms of convenience, the fact that it’s a digital pass means no need to print tickets, making it perfect for on-the-go travelers. Many reviewers, like Wynn, appreciated how easy it was to use, with some wishing they had more days to enjoy everything they’d planned.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to include a mix of cultural, historical, and fun experiences. The Heineken Experience offers insight into Dutch brewing traditions, while the A’dam Lookout provides spectacular views that are hard to beat. For art lovers, the Rijksmuseum and Moco Museum showcase world-renowned pieces and contemporary works, respectively. Plus, the canal cruise offers a relaxing way to see the city from the water, a highlight for many visitors.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Heineken Experience

This tour gives you more than just beer; it’s an interactive journey through the history and brewing process of one of the world’s most famous beers. The included two glasses of Heineken make a fitting conclusion. Reviewers like Serwaich found the views and fun of the cruise particularly memorable, emphasizing how enjoyable the combination of activities can be.

Rijksmuseum

A cornerstone of Dutch art, the Rijksmuseum’s five floors are filled with masterpieces like Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid. We love that the pass provides quick access, saving time in line. The museum’s grandeur and extensive collection make it a highlight, especially for art enthusiasts.

Moco Museum – Banksy & More

For a taste of modern and street art, the Moco Museum is a must. Its focus on contemporary works, especially Banksy, offers a contrast to traditional Dutch art. The one-hour visit is enough to get inspired, and it’s a refreshing change of pace.

A’dam Lookout

This high-up vantage point gets you panoramic views across Amsterdam’s skyline, with the added thrill of the Over the Edge swing (if you choose to try it). As one reviewer said, it’s a spectacular place to see the city from above, ideal for snapping memorable photos.

Canal Cruise

Floating past places like Anne Frank’s House and Westerkerk, this cruise encapsulates the charm of Amsterdam’s waterways. It’s especially appreciated during the warm months, providing a relaxing alternative to walking. The 1-hour cruise is often praised for its scenic views, with some reviewers mentioning it as a favorite activity.

This is Holland

This immersive 5D flight simulation feels like soaring over Dutch landmarks, complete with effects that make the experience lively. It’s a fun, family-friendly option to learn about the country’s sights without leaving the city.

Houseboat Museum

On the Prinsengracht, this tiny museum offers a glimpse into life aboard a Dutch houseboat. We loved the unique perspective it provides, especially for those curious about the city’s floating homes.

Brothel Tour with Former Sex Worker

This unusual tour explores the history of sex work in Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District. It’s presented with sensitivity and insight, making it a thought-provoking addition to your itinerary.

Royal Coster Diamonds

A visit here reveals how diamonds are cut and polished, with demonstrations and a chance to see the craftsmanship up close. The private guide adds an educational touch, which many reviewers appreciated, noting how engaging and informative the experience was.

Pedal Boat & Bike Rentals

Exploring by water or by bike is a fantastic way to see more of the city’s charming neighborhoods. The pedal boat offers a peaceful glide along the canals, while the bike rental provides flexibility, especially in the lush Vondelpark or through the Jordaan.

Other Notable Stops

From the Muiderslot Castle to the Tulip Museum, the variety of included activities ensures that there’s something for all. The day trip to Zaanse Schans is a highlight, offering a chance to see traditional windmills and Dutch crafts in a scenic setting.

Practical Aspects and Planning

The cost of $87.75 per person can be very reasonable, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. The pass’s validity for a full year allows you to plan your visits conveniently, activating it only when you’re ready.

Most activities are around 1 to 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a packed itinerary. Some venues, such as Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof, require reservations, so using the Go City app to plan ahead is highly recommended.

While the pass covers many highlights, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included unless specified. Also, transportation between activities is not covered, so plan for walking, biking, or public transit.

The reviews show that most users find the pass very straightforward. However, a few encountered technical issues downloading tickets or required support, so patience and planning are advised.

Final Thoughts: Is the Amsterdam Pass Worth It?

If you’re visiting Amsterdam for several days and want the freedom to explore without pulling out your wallet at every turn, this pass offers a lot of value. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to tick off top sights like the Rijksmuseum, Heineken Experience, and canal cruise, along with some offbeat attractions like the Houseboat Museum and the brothel tour.

The ease of use combined with cost savings makes this a practical choice. It encourages a flexible, spontaneous approach, letting you decide what to visit each day while knowing you’re saving money.

That said, travelers who prefer customized itineraries or are on a tight budget might want to compare individual ticket costs. Also, some reviews mention technical glitches, so be prepared with a backup plan if needed.

The Amsterdam Pass by Go City can be a smart investment for those looking for a convenient, money-saving way to experience the best of what Amsterdam has to offer, especially if you plan ahead to make reservations where necessary.

FAQ

Does the pass include transportation?
No, transportation to and from attractions is not included. You might need to plan for walking, biking, or public transit separately.

Can I use the pass for multiple days?
Yes, the pass is valid for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days, depending on what you purchase.

Do I need to print my tickets?
No, the pass is digital. Just download it on your phone for easy access.

Are reservations required for certain activities?
Some attractions like Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof require reservations, so it’s best to plan ahead using the Go City app.

What if I encounter technical issues with the pass?
A few reviewers have faced download issues. Contact support via the provided email if problems arise.

Can I visit each attraction more than once?
No, each attraction can only be visited once with the pass.

Is the pass good for a year?
Yes, your pass remains valid for one year from the date of purchase, but it is activated upon your first visit.

To sum it up, the Amsterdam Pass offers a practical, flexible way to enjoy many of the city’s highlights without the stress of individual ticket purchases. It’s best suited for travelers keen to see a wide range of attractions, especially those who appreciate a balance of cultural, historical, and fun experiences. Just a bit of planning — and perhaps patience — can turn this pass into a memorable, cost-effective way to explore Amsterdam.