Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam with Friends

Looking for fun things to do in Amsterdam with friends? Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, Amsterdam is bursting with exciting group activities, interactive games, and unforgettable adventures. At City Game, we specialize in turning city exploration into a playful, social, and memorable experience — perfect for friends, families, and teams eager to discover the city together!

Why Amsterdam Is Perfect for Group Adventures

Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods, iconic canals, and creative spirit make it a playground for group exploration. The city is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse attractions, and innovative experiences — making it ideal for friends seeking both classic and unique activities. According to recent trends, group bookings for city games and canal cruises have surged, with some experiences receiving over 25,000 positive reviews in 2025!

Top Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam with Friends

1. Dive into City Exploration Games & Scavenger Hunts

If you love adventure, teamwork, and a bit of friendly competition, our interactive city games are a must-try! City Game offers a variety of self-guided and guided experiences that transform Amsterdam into your personal playground:

• The Syndicate City Escape Game: Race against the clock to recover stolen formulas, solve puzzles, and uncover secrets as you navigate Amsterdam’s landmarks.
• Secrets of Exploration Game: Embark on a mystery-driven journey filled with riddles, photo challenges, and local legends — perfect for curious minds.
• Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery: Step into the shoes of a detective and solve a thrilling murder case while exploring the city’s hidden corners.

Our games are designed for all group sizes, and you can start anytime using just your smartphone. No reservations, no fixed start times — just pure adventure! Learn more about our offerings at City Game.

2. Experience Amsterdam’s Famous Canal Cruises

A canal cruise is a classic Amsterdam experience, but why not add a twist? Themed boat rides — complete with drinks, Dutch cheese, and even live music — are trending among groups. Winter cruises and special events like the Amsterdam Light Festival offer magical views of the city illuminated at night. Book in advance, as these experiences are in high demand!

• For more on canal cruises, check out Iamsterdam’s guide.

3. Challenge Your Friends in Escape Rooms

Amsterdam boasts a variety of escape rooms, from historical mysteries to high-tech adventures. These immersive games are perfect for small to medium groups looking for a challenge. Work together to solve clues, unlock secrets, and escape before time runs out!

• Find top-rated escape rooms on Amsterdam.info.

4. Explore by Bike or on Foot

Nothing says “Amsterdam” like a bike tour! Guided cycling adventures take you through picturesque neighborhoods, parks, and along the city’s famous canals. Prefer to walk? Themed walking tours — focusing on history, art, or food — offer a deeper dive into local culture and hidden gems.

• Discover bike tour options at Yellow Bike Amsterdam.
• Explore walking tours with Free Walking Tours Amsterdam.

5. Capture the City: Guided Photography Tours

Unleash your inner photographer with our “Capture the City” guided tours! Led by local experts, these tours help you snap the best shots of Amsterdam’s Red Light District, canals, and iconic architecture — all while learning smartphone photography tips and city secrets.

6. Attend Seasonal Events and Festivals

Plan your visit around Amsterdam’s vibrant events calendar! Highlights include:

• National Tulip Day (January 19): The city transforms into a sea of colorful blooms.
• Amsterdam Light Festival (until January 20): Stunning light installations illuminate the canals.
• Candlelight Concerts & Jazz Nights: Perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.

Check out the latest events at Iamsterdam’s event calendar.

Team-Building and Creative Group Activities

Amsterdam is a top destination for corporate teams and groups seeking innovative team-building experiences. Our guided city games and custom scavenger hunts are tailored for collaboration, communication, and fun — ideal for boosting morale and fostering connections.

• Marble Run & Rube Goldberg Challenges: Build elaborate contraptions using everyday materials, encouraging creativity and teamwork.
• Outdoor Competitions: Games like Capture the Flag combine strategy, energy, and excitement — perfect for energizing your group.

Learn more about our corporate and group offerings at City Game for Companies & Groups.

Insider Tips for the Best Group Experience

• Book Early: Popular activities fill up fast, especially during festivals and weekends.
• Mix Indoor & Outdoor Fun: Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable — balance your plans with both indoor and outdoor options.
• Explore Local Neighborhoods: Venture beyond the city center to areas like De Pijp and Oud-West for cozy bars, unique eateries, and authentic local vibes.
• Mind Local Regulations: Amsterdam enforces rules on noise and public behavior, especially in residential areas. Respect local guidelines to ensure a smooth experience.
• Group Size Matters: Some venues have limits on group size — check in advance to ensure everyone can join the fun.

For more practical advice, visit our How to Play page.

Why Choose City Game for Your Amsterdam Adventure?

At City Game, we believe every city holds a unique adventure waiting to be discovered. Our games are designed to be:

• Flexible: Play at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
• Inclusive: Perfect for friends, families, and colleagues — no special equipment needed.
• Customizable: Tailor your experience with custom themes, routes, and challenges.
• Global: Available in cities worldwide, making us your go-to for urban adventures.

Ready to start your journey? Explore all our locations at City Game Locations or contact us for personalized recommendations at City Game Contact.

FAQ: Fun Things to Do in Amsterdam with Friends

Q: What are the best group activities in Amsterdam for friends? A: Top picks include interactive city games, canal cruises, escape rooms, bike tours, and seasonal events. City Game’s self-guided and guided experiences are especially popular for groups seeking adventure and teamwork.

Q: Do I need to book in advance for city games or other group activities? A: We recommend booking early, especially for guided games, canal cruises, and escape rooms, as spots fill up quickly during weekends and festivals.

Q: Are City Game experiences suitable for large groups? A: Absolutely! Our guided city games are designed for large groups and corporate events, while self-guided options are perfect for smaller teams or friends.

Q: Can we customize our city game experience? A: Yes! We offer customized games tailored to your group’s interests, special occasions, or team-building goals. Contact us to discuss your ideas.

Q: What if the weather is bad? A: Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable. We suggest mixing indoor and outdoor activities, and many of our games can be played rain or shine.

Amsterdam is bursting with fun things to do with friends — so why not make your next group outing an adventure to remember? At City Game, we’re here to help you explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories in one of Europe’s most exciting cities. Ready to play? Start your adventure today!