Things to do in Het Kalf

Activities, attractions and tours

Zaanse Schans featuring a park
Zaanse Schans showing a garden
Zaanse Schans which includes a house
Zaanse Schans showing signage
Zaanse Schans showing shopping
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Top places to visit

1. Van Gogh Museum

Head to the Van Gogh Museum to see some of the works of a groundbreaking 19th-century Dutch painter. Sadly, Vincent Van Gogh only sold one of his paintings during his short life, and never dreamed of the fame he’d enjoy after his death. Here you can browse the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and learn about his tormented life. The museum also displays works by other master painters of his time, including Monet, Gauguin and Seurat.
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Van Gogh Museum featuring cycling

2. Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is a sober yet enlightening experience. The life story of Anne Frank has become one of the most famous accounts of a Jew hiding in Nazi Germany. Anne’s diary, which she started in 1942 when she was 13, is the most translated Dutch book of all time. Its first translation was in German, in 1950.
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Anne Frank House which includes a river or creek

3. Dam Square

Amsterdam’s origins lie on Dam Square and you’ll get a sense of this history as you look at the structures here. Today the square is also a venue for mass events, fun fairs and pantomime artists. Join the locals and relax at the base of the National Monument while listening to street organs. Chase the pigeons and dodge the many cyclists when you cross the square to go shopping or explore some of the historical buildings.
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Dam Square in Amsterdam, top view

4. Rijksmuseum

To understand how the tiny country of the Netherlands became a world superpower through both art and trade, visit the Rijksmuseum. Browse through over a million works of art and historical objects in more than 200 rooms. You’ll see famous paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer, among hundreds of other artists, and admire the ornate building itself.
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Rijksmuseum with big letters in Amsterdam, Holland (Netherlands)

5. Leidseplein

Delve into the many delights of buzzing Leidseplein to people-watch while enjoying a meal or just a drink after a day of sightseeing. In the warmer months, the area is packed with people gathered on the terraces of the restaurants and bars. Order a local beer and watch the street performers. In the winter, visit one of the many restaurants or clubs, or head to the ice rink surrounded by hot food and drink stalls for an atmospheric outdoor experience. If you love architecture, 17th-century Leidseplein has some interesting buildings for a walking tour.
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Leidseplein showing a city and heritage architecture

6. Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a State Monument and an Amsterdam hot spot in summer. This is where locals go to sunbathe, cycle or play outside. There are also concerts or other performances on weekends. Over 10 million visitors come here every year to enjoy nature and culture, as well as order drinks and meals on the restaurant terraces.
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Pond and tulips in Vondelpark, Amsterdam; Shutterstock ID 143198530

What to do in Het Kalf

Popular places to visit

Czar Peter House

Czar Peter House

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Czar Peter House during your trip to Zaandam. Discover the acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

Czar Peter House

World of Windmills

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in World of Windmills during your travels in Zaandam. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.

World of Windmills

Zaans Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Zaans Museum during your travels in Zaandam. Discover the acclaimed art galleries in this vibrant area or seek out the cycling trails.

Zaans Museum

Zaantheater

You can enjoy a show at Zaantheater on your trip to Zaandam. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area or seek out the cycling trails.

Zaantheater

Monet Atelier in Zaandam

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Monet Atelier in Zaandam during your trip to Zaandam. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Monet Atelier in Zaandam

Het HEM

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Het HEM during your trip to Zaandam. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Het HEM

Jisper House Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Jisper House Museum during your trip to Zaandam. Amble around the area's gardens or experience its museums.

Jisper House Museum

Molenmuseum

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Molenmuseum during your travels in Zaandam. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Molenmuseum
Zaanse Schans showing a lake or waterhole, a small town or village and a bridge

Zaandam

Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Frequently asked questions

Is Het Kalf worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of great things to do in Het Kalf. Be sure to discover the area's blend of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Het Kalf?
When you've checked off top attractions like Zaans Museum and Het HEM, spend the rest of your day experiencing Het Kalf's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Het Kalf?
Don't go home without visiting Zaans Museum, rated the top tourist attraction in Het Kalf.
Is three days enough to stay in Het Kalf?
Three days in Het Kalf is more than enough to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many guests spend three days on average. Zaans Museum, Zaantheater and Czar Peter House are among the top-rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Amsterdam.
Is Het Kalf a walkable city?
With attractions like Zaans Museum in the area, Het Kalf is very much a place to experience on foot. Like to discover some hip neighbourhoods within walking distance of downtown? Zaanse Schans is just 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Het Kalf with kids?
Deciding what to do in Het Kalf with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Het Kalf for adults?
From tasty dishes and cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and unique experiences, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Het Kalf for adults.
Are there free things to do in Het Kalf?
In Het Kalf, Het HEM is a top spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Het Kalf.