No plans yet for June 12, 13, and 14? No matter what the unpredictable weather does, the calendar is packed with great tips. This weekend, you can sing along with global pop stars at the Ziggo Dome, dance at colorful queer-friendly parties, or watch the Dutch national team’s first World Cup match together. Prefer to take it a bit easier? Then stroll through the lively Pure Market for free or relax at the spa.
Taste and relax: Pure Market in Amstelpark
On Sunday, June 14, you’ll find the traveling Pure Market from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the green Amstelpark. This market changes locations every two weeks and this time fills the former Floriade park with artisanal entrepreneurs. Admission is completely free, and you’ll find a delightful mix of 70% food and drink and 30% unique creative and artisanal products. Perfect for a picnic on the grass or an afternoon on the terrace, while the kids have fun in the playground or at the urban farm.
The grand reopening of the historic ARTIS Aquarium
After a massive five-year restoration, the legendary ARTIS Aquarium will finally reopen its doors on Saturday, June 13. Please note: the official opening day is already fully booked, but starting Sunday, June 14, you can visit this renovated underwater wonder with a regular ARTIS park ticket.
In this national monument from 1882, one of the oldest working aquariums in the world, the world of water takes center stage. No less than 90 percent of the historic building is now accessible, including the previously hidden catacombs. Young and old alike journey through colorful underwater life, spot unusual inhabitants such as the dogfish, and build their own submarine.
Step into Amsterdam as it was in 1652 at the ENTR Museum on Oosterdokskade. In this interactive VR experience, you’ll follow three city dwellers through daily life in the seventeenth century: a whaler, a printer, and a craftsman. Their paths cross when a major fire breaks out on Dam Square. You decide which path to take. The museum is now open and suitable for visitors ages 8 and up. Book your tickets here.
Tropikali by Night: The official afterparty
The colorful and queer-friendly Tropikali festival at the NDSM shipyard is completely sold out this weekend. Fortunately, there’s good news for everyone who couldn’t get a ticket or doesn’t want to head home just yet: as soon as the sun goes down, the party moves to Parallel (Tolhuistuin) for the official afterparty.
Located right by the ferry from Amsterdam Central Station, you can enjoy a tropical atmosphere here until the wee hours, with music ranging from Latin America to the Balkans. This nighttime edition is hosted by none other than Miss Khristo from Drag Race España, featuring electrifying sets by DJs Miss Tekna, Tomas Chiesa, and Dimitri Tenot. The afterparty always sells out fast, so don’t wait too long. Tickets available here.
At the Fabrique des Lumières, the largest immersive art center in the Netherlands, you can walk among life-size dinosaurs this weekend. The latest show, Prehistoric Planet, brings prehistory to life with 360-degree projectionsacross 3,200 square meters, accompanied by the original score by Hans Zimmer. Suitable for visitors ages 5 and up. Book your tickets here.
Take a moment to unwind at Amsterdam’s best spas
Want to completely unwind this weekend? Amsterdam has a surprisingly good selection of spas. From the Art Deco interior of Sauna Deco on Herengracht to the Scandinavian atmosphere of Kuuma by the water and the modern wellness of Renessence. Whether you’re in the mood for an ice bath, a steam bath, or just an afternoon of relaxation, here you’ll find the best spas in Amsterdam.
Rave by the water, between nature and industry
On Saturday, June 13, Intercell is setting up shop at Hemkade in Zaandam for a massive outdoor showcase featuring Interplanetary Criminal and Main Phase. This is just outside Amsterdam, but very close by: from Amsterdam Central Station, it’s only a 35-minute bike ride or public transit trip, and by car you can get there in just 20 minutes.
Right on the water, among the trees and the raw concrete, you’ll dance outdoors to heavy UK basslines from artists like Joy Orbison and Silva Bumpa. Final release tickets are still available, so don’t wait too long!
Two concerts at the Ziggo Dome you absolutely can’t miss
Get ready for a hefty dose of world-class live music, because Amsterdam’s largest concert hall is welcoming two incredible pop stars this coming weekend.
- Doja Cat (Friday, June 12): The global superstar is bringing her ‘Ma Vie World Tour’ to Amsterdam. Expect an energetic, visually spectacular hit show that seamlessly shifts between hip-hop and pop.
- Olivia Dean (Sunday, June 14): The promising British pop and soul artist returns to the Ziggo Dome this weekend with her “The Art of Loving Live” tour. An atmospheric finale filled with warm vocals and songs from her hit album Messy.
Get your tickets via the Ziggo Dome website.
In Westerpark, you’ll find the Banksy Museum: more than 160 works by the world’s most famous street artist, spread across 1,000 square meters. From life-size reconstructions of his iconic murals to impressive projections. His work is sharp, political, and often surprisingly funny. Whether you’re a fan or hearing his name for the first time: it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Book your tickets here
A day trip to a picturesque village near Amsterdam
Fancy a day trip out of the city? Less than an hour from Amsterdam, you’ll find villages that look like they’ve stepped right off a postcard. Think of the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans, the tranquil Broek in Waterland, and the picturesque island of Marken. Ideal for a bike ride or a relaxing day out by public transit. Check out the most beautiful villages near Amsterdam here.
The Stedelijk Museum houses one of the world’s richest collections of modern and contemporary art. With 90,000 works by artists including Monet, Picasso, Chagall, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, there’s always a reason to stop by. The museum also offers a rotating selection of temporary exhibitions. Book your tickets here.
Discover Amsterdam’s greenest spots on a walk
No need for busy plans this weekend. Sometimes a walk through nature is exactly what you need. Amsterdam has a surprising number of green spaces where you can completely unwind. From parks to hidden routes through the city. Discover the most beautiful nature walks in Amsterdam here.
