amsterdam trip planner

4 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 4 days in amsterdam: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 4 days in Amsterdam and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this optimized 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the city as well as (if you wish to!) the surroundings of Amsterdam, such as the Waterland villages or Zaanse Schans windmills.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Amsterdam in 4 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The I Amsterdam City Card

4 days in amsterdam: must-see attractions:, one last tip for a perfect 4-day stay in amsterdam, a. dam square and the royal palace of amsterdam, b. the amsterdam dungeon or the amsterdam museum, c. the béguinage (begijnhof), d. the flower market, e. zuiderkerk and nieuwmarkt, f. the red light district, g. oude kerk, a. jordaan district, b. the cheese museum, c. anne frank house, d. visit a museum: rijksmuseum, van gogh, moco or stedelijk, e. vondelpark, f. canal cruise, a. albert cuyp market, b. heineken experience, c. skinny bridge, d. visit a museum or guided tour of amsterdam by bike, e. this is holland/a’dam lookout, option 1: the windmills of zaanse schans + haarlem, option 2: the waterland villages, option 3: keukenhof (between mid-march and mid-may only), where to stay in amsterdam, amsterdam in 4 days with kids, more things to do during your 4 days in amsterdam, renting a boat in amsterdam, map of your 4-day itinerary in amsterdam, 4 days in amsterdam: flight prices and tips, you’re traveling to the netherlands these articles will help you , how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at amsterdam’s tourist attractions.

As Amsterdam welcomes tens of thousands of tourists every day , you can imagine that there is often very long waiting lines at the entrance of the city’s must-see attractions such as the Rijksmuseum or the Royal Palace.

And you don’t want to waste a big chunk of your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam queuing, right?

Hopefully, I have a few tips that will allow you to easily avoid this inconvenience .

So, here are the 2 solutions to save a lot of time and money during your stay in Amsterdam!

Your first option to save time and get discounts on Amsterdam’s must-see attractions is to opt for the I Amsterdam City Card.

As the City Card is valid for a period of between 1 and 5 days (depending on what you choose when booking), you can use it throughout your 4 days in Amsterdam.

With the I Amsterdam City Card, you will get:

• Free entrance to the city’s museums (including the the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum of course!)
• A canal cruise
• Discounts on certain attractions such as the Amsterdam Dungeon and the Heineken Experience
• 25% off bike hire and in certain restaurants
• Unlimited use of public transport during your 4 days in Amsterdam.

To buy your I Amsterdam City Card and see the full list of attractions included, simply click on the button below:

2. Fast track tickets for Amsterdam’s best tourist attractions

The 2nd solution to save time during your 4-day stay in Amsterdam is to buy fast track tickets 1 by 1, for each attractions or activities.

In Amsterdam, you can get fast track tickets for the main museums as well as for many activities you might want to enjoy during your 4 days.

Here’s the list of the attractions and activities I talk about in this itinerary.

To book, simply click on the attractions names (in orange) or on the green buttons you will find in this guide.

• The Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• The Amsterdam Dungeon
• Amsterdam Museum
• Guided tour of the Red Light District
• Private tour of the Jordaan district
• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• The Stedelijk Museum
• Canal cruise
• The Heineken Experience
• Guided tour of Amsterdam
• Guided bike tour
• THIS IS HOLLAND
• Anne Frank walking tour of Amsterdam
• Guided Segway tour
• One day including a visit to the windmills + 1 hour cruise + Volendam + Marken
• Visit Edam + Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + cheese-tasting .

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As Amsterdam is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Amsterdam by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in Amsterdam.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Amsterdam, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

4 days in Amsterdam: recommended itinerary

It’s now time to plan your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam!

For this itinerary, I assume you’ll be spending 4 full days in Amsterdam and purchased the I Amsterdam City Card or your fast track tickets. That’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

If you still have questions after reading this article or need help planning your trip, don’t hesitate to send me your questions via the comments section located at the bottom of this guide.

So, what should you see during your 4 days in Amsterdam?

First day – the historic centre

Day 1 visits:

A. Dam Square and the Royal Palace B. The Amsterdam Dungeon or the Amsterdam Museum C. The Béguinage (Begijnhof) D. The flower market E. Zuiderkerk and Nieuwmarkt F. The Red Light District G. Oude Kerk

Let’s start this 4-day visit to Amsterdam at Dam Square, the city’s main square.

It’s a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal station via Damrak or Nieuwendijk streets . If you prefer, you can also take the tram that departs from of the railway station.

On Dam Square, you can see:

• The National Monument
• Nieuwe Kerk church
• The Royal Palace of Amsterdam, which you really should visit! The former City Hall that became a royal residence today houses a museum. There, you can admire period furniture as well as numerous paintings and sculptures.

Entrance to the palace isn’t included in the City Card, so you should buy your skip the line tickets in advance. It would be silly to waste time before visiting your very first attraction of the day!

The price is the same as at the ticket office and the audio guide is included.

You need to book it here:

After the Royal Palace , you have 2 options for your next visit: the Amsterdam Dungeon or the Amsterdam Museum .

They are both located less than 5 minutes from Dam Square on foot.

1) The Dungeon is a unique experience where you can discover one of the darkest part the Netherlands history in the form of staged productions with actors in period costume.

During this 1 h 15 show , you’ll of course be invited to join in and participate to the various scenes such as a witch burning at the stake or a trial during the Spanish inquisition.

It’s really very well done and you’ll soon be taken up by the atmosphere. Well, as long as you aren’t elected to try out the instruments of torture 🙃.

The I Amsterdam City Card gets you a 25% reduction on your entrance ticket.

With the Amsterdam City Pass , you can enjoy a 10% discount for the Dungeon as long as you book your ticket online using the discount code you got when you bought the pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you can book your entrance ticket by clicking here.

2) In a more classic style but still in line with the history of the city , you can also visit the Amsterdam Museum. It’s a great way to learn about about 1,000 years of the Netherlands capital’s history !

Free entrance with the Amsterdam City Card . If you don’t have the pass, you can purchase your tickets here.

Near the square you’ve also got Body Worlds exhibition , Madame Tussauds wax museum and the Ripley’s museum. Simply choose the one you prefer!

After spending the morning indoors, let’s continue with a walking tour of the city.

Not far from the Dungeon and the museum, you should take a look at the Béguinage , one of the oldest inner courtyards in the city.

These houses were once inhabited by a community of women called the Béguines, hence the name.

Here, you can also see Amsterdam’s last wooden house . This type of housing became strictly forbidden because of the high risk of fire.

Another popular site you should see during your 4 days in Amsterdam is the flower market, or Bloemenmarkt.

The flower market is located on the banks of the canal, just 5 minutes on foot from the Béguinage. As the name suggests, you’ll find plenty of flowers here, and especially tulips , the iconic flower of the Netherlands.

Fresh flowers , bulbs, wooden flowers: they’re here in all formats and colours. There are also shops selling souvenirs such as postcards, magnets and, of course, the traditional wooden clogs.

You’re sure to find something here to take home from your 4-day stay in Amsterdam!

Let’s now walk along Kloveniersburgwal canal for 10 minutes to reach Zuiderkerk church.

At certain times of the day (the times are completely random), you can climb to the top of the bell tower with a guide.

Continue your stroll and you will pass by Nieuwmarkt square.

You will immediately recognize it thanks to “The Waag “, a building that looks like a small castle located on the center of the square. It’s actually the old gateway to the city which has today been converted into a café and restaurant.

If you continue to the north of the square, you will stumble upon the small Chinatown district of Amsterdam.

It’s now time to visit the hottest spot in town: the famous Red Light District!

You’ve probably already heard about this district, mainly famous for its prostitutes sitting behind red-fronted shop windows!

Yes, prostitution is completely legal in Amsterdam, they are workers who have to pay their taxes just like the rest of the population.

Important: please note that it’s not allowed to take photos of the prostitutes from the street.

To learn more about the history of the district and go deeper into the subject (no, it’s not what you’re thinking!), you can take a guided tour of the Red Light District.

You need to book your guided tour here:

Here are some slightly less traditional visits that are also worth it:

• Visit Amsterdam’s Museum of Prostitution
• Visit a brothel with a sex worker guide

Red Light District is also home to the oldest church in Amsterdam: Oude Kerk , built in the 1300s.

Entry to the church costs 15€ . If you ask me, that’s a bit expensive considering the interior isn’t very special. To give you an idea, it’s the same price as St John’s Cathedral in Malta , which is incredibly more interesting to visit!

In fact , you’re mostly paying to see one of the contemporary art exhibition they usually host inside, which in my opinion don’t really fit the place and are not really worth it.

On the other hand, it’s well worth admiring Oude Kerk exterior architecture, with its red bricks and large stained glass windows.

Entry to the Oude Kerk is free of charge with your I Amsterdam City Card.

So if you have the City Card, don’t hesitate to go have a look inside and make up your own mind!

2nd day Itinerary

Day 2 visits:

A. Jordaan district B. The Cheese Museum C. Anne Frank House D. Visit a museum: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, MOCO or Stedelijk E. Vondelpark F. Canal cruise

If you have the chance to spend 4 days in Amsterdam, you should take some time to visit the very typical Jordaan district.

This iconic part of the city (together with the historic centre and the Red Light District) is located to the west of Dam Square.

To get there, simply walk along the canal while admiring the houses’ red brick façades. You will pass in front of Westerkerk church, the largest protestant church in the Netherlands.

The best way to visit the Jordaan without missing anything is to take a 2-hour guided tour:

And if you’re a foodie and love to discover local produces, you should opt for this fantastic food tour by clicking there!

While I’m talking about food , that’s exactly what the next visit is all about: the Cheese Museum, also located in Jordaan district.

Well, in all fairness, the word “museum” is a bit grand because it’s nothing more than a small exhibition in a shop’s basement with a few explanations about cheese-making.

The shop itself, located on the ground floor, will for sure grab your attention as it offers free Gouda tastings of every variety (pesto, truffle, chilli…).

Fancy taking part in a tasting workshop of the finest Dutch cheeses during your 4-day stay in Amsterdam?

I’ve selected a really nice activity where you get to taste 5 cheeses by Henri Willing who is well-known for his traditional and high-quality cheeses .

all served with local wines and beers!

Book your cheese-tasting in Amsterdam here.

Let’s continue your 4-day Amsterdam itinerary by staying in the Jordaan district to visit Anne Frank House (when I told you this was an optimized itinerary, I wasn’t joking! 😄)

During the Second World War , when the Jews were being hunted down, it’s here that the Fank family hid to escape deportation. Anne Frank’s diary, now famous throughout the world, tells of the conditions they lived in .

Today, you can visit the different rooms in the house and see photos and objects that belonged to the family, all alongside extracts from the diary.

Entrance tickets are available for sale online only from the official website (click here) . 80% of the tickets are made available online 2 months in advance, and the rest are made available by small batches from 9.00 am each day.

These tickets go very quickly and you should book as early as possible.

If you haven’t managed to get your tickets for the house, you can make up for it by taking a guided tour of the former Jewish district.

The tour, which lasts 2 hours, is the best way to learn more about Anne Frank and life at that time:

There are loads of museums in Amsterdam, and some are among the most famous in the world.

The major ones are located around the Museumplein, or Museum Square.

There are 2 ways for you get there from Anne Frank House:

• A 30-minute walk along the canal
• 20 minutes by tram.

You can choose which museum interests you the most between:

• The Rijksmuseum, the largest and most famous museum in Amsterdam. It houses an impressive collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age. Entry is included with the I Amsterdam City Card .Otherwise you should buy your fast track tickets for the Rijksmuseum in advance by clicking here .
• Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the famous Dutch artist, with 200 of his works on display. Free entry with the City Card. If you don’t have a card or pass, you can get a fast track ticket here.
• The MOCO , dedicated to contemporary art, includes an exhibition about Banksy. Free entrance with the Amsterdam City Card.
• The Stedelijk Museum, the museum of contemporary art and design. Free entrance with the Amsterdam City Card.

Want to go for a drink after the museums?

You should head for the House of Bols Experience next to the Museumplein.

You will learn all about the process of making the oldest spirits brand in the world, and best of all, you will get to try an excellent cocktail!

You need to buy your tickets for the House of Bols by clicking here.

For a bit of fresh air after these indoor attractions, you can head to Vondelpark.

The largest park in the city is only a 5-minute walk from the Museumplein.

In Vondelpark, you will find several lakes , well-maintained paths for walking or cycling and play areas for the kids.

To bring this second day to a leisurely end, you should take a canal cruise.

Make yourself comfortable and discover the architecture and traditional houses from a different angle. It really is one of the best things you can do during your 4 days in Amsterdam!

There are different sorts of cruise depending on the type of boat and the duration. I’ve picked out 5 of the most popular for you.

Simply click on the links for more information and to book:

• 75 minute cruise exploring the historic centre + audio guide
• 1 hour cruise with audio guide to admire the façades of the Dutch Golden Age houses
• 1 hour cruise in a semi-open electric canal boat
• 90 minute evening cruise to enjoy the city lights
• Luxury cruise with drinks and snacks included.

Don’t forget: if you’ve bought the I Amsterdam City Card , you’re entitled to a free cruise!

3rd day in Amsterdam: best places to visit

Day 3 visits:

A. Albert Cuyp Market B. Heineken Experience C. Skinny Bridge D. Visit a museum: of a guided tour of Amsterdam by bike E. A’DAM Lookout

This is now the 3rd of your 4-day trip to Amsterdam.

Let’s start the morning at Albert Cuyp Market , one of the biggest open-air markets in Europe. In addition to fruits and vegetables , you can also buy cheese , flowers and souvenirs there.

The market, open from Monday to Saturday , is located in De Pijp neighbourhood.

Next, you can head to Heineken Experience 5 minutes away from the market.

Inside the former premises of the brewery , you’ll learn everything about the history of the famous Heineken company and the different stages of making their iconic drink: beer of course!

At the end of the visit, you indeed get to enjoy a good pint of beer.

You need to book your tickets in advance here!

Next, you can go for a quick photo opportunity on the famous Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug in Dutch).

Film buffs and lovers of the James Bond series will recognize the bridge used as a set for “ Diamonds are Forever” movie.

Dating back to the 17th century, this bridge was originally so narrow that it was hard for 2 people to pass each other, hence its nickname: the Skinny Bridge .

Since then, it’s been widened twice to allow a few more people to cross at the same time, and it can also opens to let the canal boats through.

For the afternoon, you have a few options :

1) Visit a museum.

There are a few museums close to the Skinny Bridge: the Hermitage Amsterdam , Rembrandt House Museum or the Tropenmuseum of ethnography.

If you prefer, you can also return to the Museumplein area to visit one of the museums there.

2) Explore the city by bike: do like locals and grab a bike to discover the hidden gems of the city! The whole city is perfect for this, as there are cycle lanes everywhere.

Actually, as a pedestrian you almost need to look out for the bikes more than for the cars.

You can hire a bike by clicking on the button below:

Or if you prefer, you can book a guided tour by bike to immerse yourself deeper in the local culture:

3) If you’re visiting Amsterdam with kids, you can take them to the zoo of Amsterdam or to NEMO Science Museum , which is great fun.

You might also want to stop at a coffee shop at some point during the afternoon. Consuming cannabis sitting comfortably in a dedicated café is another Amsterdam institution, and it’s completely legal here!

As the afternoon comes to an end, head to Amsterdam central station.

From there, you can take the free ferry shuttle across the river to Buiksloterweg quay .

You will then have to walk less than 5 minutes to THIS IS HOLLAND, an attraction that takes you on a 10-minute virtual flight over the Netherlands . To add to the experience, the seats move and you can even smell the scent of the tulips as you fly over the fields.

The City Card entitles you to a discount. If you don’t have a pass, you can book your tickets online by clicking here.

Right next to THIS IS HOLLAND , a great way to end the day is on the panoramic terrace at the A’DAM Lookout.

From there, you can enjoy a panoramic view over the entire city and even, if you dare, try the highest swing in Europe.

Entry to the A’DAM Lookout is included in the City Card Amsterdam.

4th day – The Best things to do near Amsterdam

On the last day of your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam, you should go on a day trip to visit Amsterdam’s surroundings!

Here are the 3 best places to visit near Amsterdam:

Zaanse Schans is for sure the most famous tourist attraction around Amsterdam!

Here, you can visit windmills built next to the water . While in Amsterdam, you will probably have already seen them on a few postcards.

In addition to the windmills, there are shops selling cheese, souvenirs and clogs. It’s touristy, but in a good way because Zaanse Schans has been well developed to maintain tradition.

You can also visit 2 museums there: one dedicated to clock-making (a speciality of the village) and the other to windmills.

There are 3 ways you can get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam :

• Take bus no. 391 or 891 from the central station. There’s one approximately every 15 minutes. You need to purchase your ticket by clicking here!
• Take the train to Zaanse railway station (20-minute journey)+ a 15-minute walk to the windmills.
• Take a day trip that includes transport and a guide.

To make it easier for you, I have picked out 3 organized day trips that include a visit to Zaanse Schans windmills, but with slight variations:

• A visit to the windmills + 1 hour cruise + Volendam + Marken (2 Waterland villages I will tell you about below, in “option 2”). In my opinion, this is the best excursion to see the windmills!

You need to book it by clicking on the green button below:

And the other 2 options:

• A 3-hour organised trip in a small group with a guided tour/entry to the windmill/clog-making demonstration.
• An excursion to discover Edam + Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + cheese-tasting .

If you want to make your own way to Zaanse Schans, you only need half a day to visit the site. So in the afternoon you should visit Haarlem (just a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam).

I really loved this charming and picturesque small town, featuring beautiful brick houses and a magnificent church.

There are 7 traditional and authentic villages you can visit close to Amsterdam. They are known collectively as the “Waterland villages” because they are criss-crossed by canals or situated by the sea.

It’s easy to visit them all in one day thanks to the 10€ Waterland day ticket.

It gives you unlimited use of the buses to get from Amsterdam to the villages (and between all the villages).

You can get the bus routes and timetables from the information centre at the railway station. You can buy the day ticket at any of the automatic ticket machines located in the central station.

Here’s the list of villages you should see:

• Broek in Waterland and its small wooden houses
• Monninckendam, where you can visit the Waterlands Museum and Saint Nicolas church
• Marken: a very pretty small island featuring a harbour and waterside restaurants
• Volendam: a very charming village lots of small shops and restaurants around the harbour.
• Edam: a traditional village that’s perfect for a stroll to admire the very beautiful houses.
• Purmerend: not my favourite because it’s a bit less traditional. It’s more a common small town, you can skip it if you don’t have time.
• Beemster: designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its polder, a man-made stretch of land obtained by draining water. The Beemster lake was drained from the 17th century using 43 water mills – a true technical feat.

You want to visit several Waterland villages easily?

In that case, you can opt for an organized day trip!

Here are the 3 I recommend, simply click on the links below for more details and to book:

• Excursion visiting Edam + Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + cheese-tasting .
• Visit to Volendam + Edam + windmills
• Volendam + Marken + Zaanse Schans + 1-hour cruise

If you’re lucky enough to be spending 4 days in Amsterdam between mid-March and mid-May, don’t miss a visit to Keukenhof.

It’s simply the most famous park in the Netherlands, the only place where you can admire millions of tulips!

You really need to book your entrance tickets for Keukenhof in advance to avoid the crowd at the entrance. Simply click on the button below:

So now you know exactly what to do and see in Amsterdam in 4 days!

Now it’s time for you to think about where to stay in Amsterdam.

To make life easier for you, here’s my selection of the best places to stay in Amsterdam depending on your budget:

• Hans Brinker Hostel Amsterdam: Youth hostel 400 metres from the Rijksmuseum and 10 minutes from the Vondelpark. Bed in a dormitory from 26€, including breakfast. Strong points: the location, the warm welcome, the atmosphere. An excellent choice if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Amsterdam!
• Motel One Amsterdam: Located 2 km from the Rikjsuseum and the Albert Cuyp Market. Clean and well-decorated double room from 110€ per night, breakfast 11.50€. Strong points: helpful staff, location 2 minutes from the metro, the good breakfast.
• Jaz Amsterdam: Situated a 15-minute metro ride from the centre. Spacious and stylish room from 110€, breakfast 16.95€. Strong points: very friendly staff, good facilities, the fabulous breakfast.
• Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein: Situated close to the Zuiderkerk and a 15-minute walk from Dam Square. Warm room with very comfortable bed linen from 154€, breakfast 11.50€. Strong points: close to the centre, delightful staff, good and varied breakfast. It’s my favourite for its excellent value for money in Amsterdam!
• Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre: Situated just a 10-minute walk from the railways station and the centre of Amsterdam. Spacious, modern and comfortable room, some with a river view, from 190€, breakfast 25€. Strong points: location, comfort, friendly staff, access to the sauna included. The best hotel for a high end stay in Amsterdam!
• NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky: Located right on Dam Square, this luxury hotel offers rooms with a sleek and modern décor from 310€, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for exploring Amsterdam on foot, exceptional bed linen, the excellent breakfast. Perfect for a romantic break in the heart of the city!
• Hyatt Regency Amsterdam: 5* hotel situated 800 metres from the zoo. Bright and elegantly decorated rooms from 360€, breakfast 28€. Strong points: the staff are concerned to ensure the well-being of their guests, the decoration, the location, the excellent restaurant. The best hotel in Amsterdam for a luxury stay!

And if you prefer to rent a luxury apartment for your stay in Amsterdam, the Keizersgracht Suite 471 is the best address in the city!

If these hotels are full or don’t suit you, you should take a look at the traveler’s favorites by clicking here : The Best Hotels in Amsterdam .

Since I had a very early flight home on the morning of my departure, I also tried out the Ibis Schiphol Amsterdam Airport situated 10 minutes from the airport (free shuttle). And I was pleasantly surprised: the rooms are modern, comfortable, and you can’t hear the planes at all.

You plan to visit Amsterdam in 4 days with your children?

Well, the city is perfect for a family trip!

Everything can easily be visited on foot, and if your kids start to be tired, you can always hop on a tram.

Here are my recommended things to do for a 4-day trip to Amsterdam with kids:

• The flower market
• Jordaan district
• Going to Amsterdam zoo
• The NEMO Science Museum
• Go see the typical windmills of Zaanse Schans.

You can also modify this itinerary a bit more and take them to:

• Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum,
• The Lego shop on the Kalverstraat, with its really nice Lego scenes and animations
• Micropia a museum dedicated to microbes and bacteria. Truly original and really well put together! It’s not far from the zoo.
• Madurodam where you can see the main monuments of the Netherlands in miniature. A nice park with beautiful models a 1 h 10 min drive from Amsterdam.
• Do a round of mini golf in the dark (get your tickets here)

If you want to modify this itinerary a bit and/or include additional guided tours or activities , you should read my detailed guide of Amsterdam, with all the best places to visit.

Simply click on the following link to learn everything about the Dutch capital: The ultimate guide to visiting Amsterdam!

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day on Amsterdam’s canals , you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip on Amsterdam’s canals? 😊

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 4 days in Amsterdam, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day . You can view the legend of the map by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to Amsterdam, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

• Take the train to the central train station
• Take the #397 bus to go to the Museumplein.

You should choose according to your hotel location!

For the “Schiphol airport – Amsterdam city center train” , you should really book your tickets in advance . You will save a lot of time when you will arrive!

You will get the ticket directly on your mobile (no need to print it), so you won’t need to queue at the ticket counter or vending machines.

To book your round trip “airport – city center” train ticket, simply click the button below:

If you don’t want to take a flight, you can also get to Amsterdam by train from many European cities.

To check the schedules, the rates and to book your tickets, it’s right there:

If you need help to plan your 4-day itinerary in Amsterdam, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

Discover all my articles about Amsterdam : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Amsterdam are listed there.

• Amsterdam: Top 30 best things to do
• 2 days in Amsterdam – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Amsterdam – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Amsterdam – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in Amsterdam – The best itinerary discover the city and the surroundings
• Where to stay in Amsterdam? My guide to the best areas and hotels of the city

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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• Amsterdam to Krakow drive
• Amsterdam to Stockholm drive
• Amsterdam to Frankfurt drive
• Amsterdam to Liverpool drive

Explore nearby places

• Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
• Badhoevedorp
• Broek in Waterland
• Koog aan de Zaan
• Zuiderwoude
• Spaarnwoude
• Monnickendam
• Wijdewormer

All related maps of Amsterdam

• Map of Amsterdam
• Map of Diemen
• Map of Landsmeer
• Map of Sloten
• Map of Oostzaan
• Map of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
• Map of Amstelveen
• Map of Badhoevedorp
• Map of Watergang
• Map of Zaandam
• Map of Den Ilp
• Map of Broek in Waterland
• Map of Zwanenburg
• Map of Zaanstad
• Map of Schiphol
• Map of Koog aan de Zaan
• Map of Zuiderwoude
• Map of Abcoude
• Map of Weesp
• Map of Muiden
• Map of Zaandijk
• Map of Westzaan
• Map of Uitdam
• Map of Spaarnwoude
• Map of Monnickendam
• Map of Nigtevecht
• Map of Wijdewormer
• Map of Vijfhuizen
• Map of Assendelft
• Map of Spaarndam
• Map of Wormerveer

Amsterdam throughout the year

• Amsterdam in January
• Amsterdam in February
• Amsterdam in March
• Amsterdam in April
• Amsterdam in May
• Amsterdam in June
• Amsterdam in July
• Amsterdam in August
• Amsterdam in September
• Amsterdam in October
• Amsterdam in November
• Amsterdam in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Amsterdam?

Get inspired for your trip to Amsterdam with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 2-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 4-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary

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Home » Europe » Netherlands » Amsterdam

Epic 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary (2024)

Amsterdam is a city on many traveller’s bucket lists. It’s full of exciting sights, beautiful architecture, and classic European charm. There is an abundance of things to keep you busy during a trip here, and many experiences that are unique to the city!

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and you’re not entirely sure yet what to see or do in the city, this itinerary should be a great help to you! We’ve put together some exciting suggestions for your Amsterdam trip, where to go, must-see spots, and even a few free things to do in Amsterdam!

While there may be too many things to see and do on just one short trip to Amsterdam, we hope you’re ready for a jam-packed itinerary on your trip to the city.

Of course, you can always head out and explore the city spontaneously, but if you’re on a short trip you risk missing out on some of the best spots. This 3-day Amsterdam trip planner has the best of the best and is organised into an order that should allow you to see it all and really enjoy your time there.

And if you can stay a bit longer, we’ve added in some extra cool places at the end as well!

Let’s have a look…

A Little Bit about this Amsterdam Itinerary

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Whether you’re flying straight into the city for a short trip, or you’re backpacking in Amsterdam , there are so many things to see and do!

While you can do a lot of walking around the different neighbourhoods, it may take you a while to get from one to another on foot. Most Mokummers (or Amsterdammers) travel by bike , and for this reason, public transport is not as reliable as one would hope. 

That’s why it’s important to stay in the right area. Luckily, most of Amsterdam’s epic hostels are located in the ideal neighbourhood to explore the city. They might even offer free bikes that you can make use of!

You can travel by bus or tram through the city too. Buying a transport pass will save you some money. Alternatively, you can rent a bike for the duration of your stay, and look like a real local! 

While getting from one stop to the next, really try not to rush things and rather enjoy the beautiful city with its parks, cute alleys and canals. We’ve planned each day to be entertaining but not overpacked, so there’s always time to stop at a little coffee shop or chill along one of the beautiful canals here and there.

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3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in Amsterdam: Jordaan District , Anne Frank House , Westertoren Tower , A’Dam Lookout , Brouwerij ‘t IJ , Heineken Experience , Red Light District
• Day 2 in Amsterdam: Museumplein , Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , Hash Marijuana & Hemp Museum , Cannabis Coffeeshop , Canal Cruise , Leidseplein
• Day 3 in Amsterdam: Ferry to Amsterdam North , House of Bols , Stroll a Park , Dam Square
• More Places to See in Amsterdam: Ouderkerk aan de Amstel , Foodhallen , OT301

With Amsterdam City Pass , you can experience the best of Amsterdam at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Amsterdam is quite small but full of diverse and interesting neighbourhoods. The entire city is divided into 8 districts, each of which has its own neighbourhood divisions. Choosing a place to stay in Amsterdam is probably a question of what kind of visit you want.

For example, there are quite a lot of hostels right inside the red light district and in fact, some of the best hostels in Amsterdam are here. However, it can be loud and raucous and some find the surrounding temptations hard to resist.

Most visitors find the Old Centrum district the easiest and most convenient place to stay. You can reach anything and everything from here. It’s perfect whether you’re looking to shop, go on a canal cruise, or explore a museum or three. Old Centrum is also home to the infamous Red Light District, for those who are intrigued. There are also loads of the Best Airbnbs in Amsterdam in this location.

A slightly less touristy neighbourhood would be Oud Oost. This is the ideal place to find accommodation if you’d like to immerse yourself in the life of locals. While there aren’t as many tourist attractions to be found in the neighbourhood itself, you’ll be close enough to the Old Centrum district to enjoy the activities there.

With so many things to do in Amsterdam , you should be sure to stay somewhere where you can get to all the sights easily and quickly.

Best Hostel in Amsterdam – St Christopher’s at the Winston

With so many amazing hostels to be found in Amsterdam, it can be hard to pick a favourite. This is one that really stands out though. Its central location, beer garden, and cheap continental breakfasts put this hostel at the top of the list. They also give food and drink discounts for nearby bars and restaurants!

Best Airbnb in Amsterdam – Best Amstel View

For a novel stay in Amsterdam, what could be better than renting a private houseboat? This cool Airbnb can sleep up to seven people in three bedrooms (plus a sofa bed in the living room). The comfy living room provides incredible views over the water, and you can sit and chill on the outside deck too. There’s a long dining table and a well-equipped kitchen, as well as a separate toilet and the main bathroom.

Best Budget Hotel in Amsterdam – Hotel Plantage

Located in the heart of Amsterdam this hotel offers brilliantly green views of the city. With many fascinating attractions and landmarks, you’ll be positioned perfectly to enjoy Amsterdam. Free WIFI, comfy rooms, and all necessary amenities will ensure you experience a pleasant, but affordable stay.

Best Luxury Hotel in Amsterdam – Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht

Flowing with luxury from the inside out, Andaz Amsterdam is the most elegant place to stay in this magnificent city. The beautifully designed rooms, all boasting modern comforts, are sure to make you want to stay in all day. The convenient location makes this one of the best hotels in Amsterdam to enjoy the best of your visit.

You can also check out all the best VRBOs in Amsterdam !

The first day of your 3 days in Amsterdam is packed with all sorts of things. From exploring famous districts to some short physical activity (nothing too bad, we promise!), a bit of culture and beer tasting.

For all the curious people, we’ve added in the Red Light District at the end of Day 1, but if that’s not your thing, you can skip it!!

Every map that you see in this article includes a hyperlink to an interactive version on Google Driving. After clicking the map image, the interactive version will be opened in a new tab.

8:30 AM – Explore Jordaan District

The Jordaan district is a culturally-rich area of the city is possibly the best place to start your Amsterdam travel adventure.

Spend your morning strolling down the beautifully decorated streets. Enjoy the colourful architecture on one side and the picturesque canals on the other! There are little shops along the streets too, where you can find charming Dutch souvenirs!

There are plenty of markets to be found in the neighbourhood, as well as some charming old churches.

It’s also one of the best food spots in Amsterdam! If you need your coffee fix in the morning and tasty breakfast, you’ll find loads of cute little cafes in Jordaan District. We’d recommend stopping at Paradox Coffee Shop, one of the best-reviewed cafes in the area. Make sure to eat enough so you’re full for the next couple of hours of explorations.

• Cost  – Free
• How long should I stay here?   1 hour max
• Getting there –  Bike/Metro/Walk, depending on where you stay.

9:00 AM – See the Anne Frank House

If you haven’t yet heard of Anne Frank or her diary, you should definitely do some quick research before your Amsterdam trip. She was a young teen when her family had to go into hiding from the invading Nazis.

Long story short, Anne wrote a diary detailing her family’s time living in this confined attic space. The Anne Frank House is the very place where they hid away and lived for almost 4 years before being captured and tragically dying at a concentration camp!

The house is one of the more popular tourist spots, and it’s definitely a place that everyone should see at least once! However, it’s known to get quite busy and crowded.

Inside the museum, you’ll be told the story of Anne Frank and Amsterdam under Nazi Occupation. The way their lives were during those times, and what exactly happened in that attic. It can be quite an emotional activity, and it is definitely an educational trip, but it’s also a must-see attraction on your 3-days in Amsterdam itinerary.

Take a self-guided audio tour so you really get to grips with what happened here.

• Cost  – $5-12 USD
• How long should I stay here?   1-2 hours max
• Getting there –  It’s in walking distance from Stop 1

11:30 AM – Climb the Westertoren Tower

After a slightly sobering visit to the Anne Frank House, cheer yourself up a bit with some exercise and extraordinary views of Amsterdam! The tower is incredibly close to the Anne Frank House, in fact, Anne wrote about watching the tower out of the Annex’s window.

The Westertoren (or Westerkerk) Tower provides an incredible viewpoint from its platform, located about halfway up the tower. The only way to reach the platform is by climbing a winding spiral staircase, and then a set of ladder-like steps!

As such, it’s quite an active experience so you should be reasonably fit and mobile. Children younger than 6 are not allowed to do the tour.

You can’t go up yourself, so you’ll need to book a guided tour. These run every 30 minutes and are in groups of about 6 – 10 people. The guides are local university students, that speak impeccable English, and know their city well!

• Cost  – $9
• How long should I stay here?   30 Mins
• Getting there –  It’s in walking distance

12:30 PM – Enjoy the Views at A’Dam Lookout & Swing Over the Edge!

We’re not done seeing this city from the sky yet! With so much going on, sometimes higher up is the best place to be. You can pretty much see all of Amsterdam from this panoramic-view deck. If this is the only thing you manage to do while visiting the city, it would be worth it!

The A’Dam offers more than just some quiet reflecting over the city, though. The main attraction here is the Over The Edge swing! This recently opened attraction is the newest and possibly most exciting way to get a bird’s-eye view of this wondrous Dutch city.

The Over The Edge swing is Europe’s highest swing! It sits on A’Dam Lookout’s deck at 20 storeys high! Not only will you be able to enjoy 360-degree views of the city, but you’ll get your heart pumping and adrenaline flowing with this (literal) over the edge swing!

• Cost  – $5-15 USD
• How long should I stay here?  30min – 1 hour
• Getting there –  Take your Bike!

3:00 PM – Stop Off at Brouwerij ‘t IJ

Let your feet touch the ground and guide you straight to Brouwerij ‘t IJ. You can take a 20-minute cycle from the A’Dam Lookout, alternatively, hop on public transport or order an Uber. It’s just under 5km distance, so if you’re feeling fit you can walk it too!

However you decide to arrive, you will be rewarded when you get there! Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a small brewery on the IJ (pronounced ‘eye’) River. It produces certified organic beer and sits at the foot of a stunning windmill. Making it the perfect spot for an afternoon stop.

You can book a guided group tour (private tours are also available, but costly!) and see the ins and outs of a working brewery. Then, settle down to a beer tasting and/or pairing experience! The bar is open for those who wish to chill a little longer and enjoy full-size beers.

Once you’re done, make sure to cross the road and try some of the best ice creams in Amsterdam at De Ijsmolen (The Ice Cream Shop). It’ll make your stomach happy, cool you down after all those beer tastings and maybe even sober you up a bit.

• Cost  – $7.30 USD
• How long should I stay here?  1-2 hours
• Getting there –  Bike/Uber/Public Transport

4:30 PM – Get the Full Heineken Experience

While our morning was all about viewpoints, our afternoon is pretty much all about beer! Something Amsterdammers actually know quite a bit about.

Set in Heineken’s first-ever brewery, The Heineken Experience is a top attraction in Amsterdam. Run by local Amsterdammers, the tour offered will not only give you insights into Heineken’s past, and how they became the much-loved beer that they are now but will also let you see how it is made.

While the actual brewery was closed down years ago, due to it being too small for demand, it has been transformed into an epic beer experience. You can take a group guided tour, or set off on your own self-guided tour of the brewery. After the tour everyone sits down for a Heineken or two and a few laughs!

Once you’ve had enough of beer, head to dinner at one of the fabulous restaurants in Amsterdam and recharge so you’re ready for the last stop of the day. Just keep your hands off garlic if possible. You’ll see why…

Be sure to snap up tickets before you go and take a guided tour around the facilities.

• Cost  – $26.40 + 2 free beer
• Getting there –  Take the Ferry!

8:00 PM – Discover the Red Light District

The Red Light District may have a controversial reputation, but it is definitely an interesting place to experience.

Also known as De Wallen, this neighbourhood is internationally known for its openly tolerated brothels, sex shops, and even its lenient drug laws. This is one neighbourhood where the darker (or more fun) side of humanity is allowed to roam free.

The Dutch have allowed this district to keep running, with soft laws, and it works! It’s also a fantastic tourist spot, because where else can you be sure to see a museum of prostitution or a sex peep show?!

Whether you visit for the more hardcore places, or simply to see what all the fuss is about, visiting the Red Light District is a must on your 3-day Amsterdam itinerary if you’re looking to fully experience the city!

If you want to check out this area but you’re a little unsure or you want to learn a bit more about the history of the Red Light District, why not take a guided walking tour instead.

• Cost  – Free unless you go into Clubs… expensive if you do!!
• How long should I stay here?  Up to you…
• Getting there –  Take public transport in case you want to have a drink.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Day two is going to start nice and slow. After a tasty coffee, we’re going to fresh up your art knowledge by checking out some of the most famous museums in Amsterdam. Afterwards, you’ll experience what Amsterdam is mainly known for among young travellers: coffee shops and weed!

9:00 AM – Check Out the Rijksmuseum

This fantastic museum is home to many famous artists’ paintings and artwork. It also has an impressive research library, as well as other exhibitions and displays.

The exhibitions constantly change, so be sure to check out online what’s being showcased during your visit.

You can organise a private or group guided tour, or simply browse through the galleries at your own leisure once you’ve got your tickets .

If you’re an art lover, you might already know about this museum as it showcases classic paintings like Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch”.

If you haven’t had breakfast yet, the Rijksmuseum cafe (also called Groot Cafe) has some of the best and most delicious breakfasts in the area.

• Cost  – $22.50 USD
• How long should I stay here?  2 hour
• Getting there –  Walk from Rijksmuseum.

11:30 AM – Visit the Van Gogh Museum

Thanks to the famous Van Gogh’s Dutch heritage, this museum is one of Amsterdam’s most well-known. It is also home to one of the largest collections of his works!

See the well-known painter’s drawings, letters, and (of course) some of his most famed paintings. There are also displays that change often and show other pieces that influenced Van Gogh’s works.

Thanks to this museum being so popular, it can get really busy! So, expect a few crowds and embrace the experience. The time of day doesn’t really make much of a difference to how busy it gets. However, doing this visit before lunchtime will probably mean slightly fewer crowds.

To visit the Van Gogh museum, you must buy your tickets online beforehand . The website shows time slots and days that are available. You won’t be able to buy tickets when you get there, so go prepared!

If you fancy yourself a painter, you can join one of the walk-in workshops while you’re there and try your hand at painting a masterpiece!

Insider Tip:  If it’s raining – especially during the weekend – the museum is bound to be extra busy, so avoid visiting over this time, or come prepared to deal with the crowds!

• Cost  – Around $22 USD
• How long should I stay here?  2 hours
• Getting there –  In walking distance from Spot 2.

2:00 PM – Discover the Hash, Marijuana & Hemp Museum

Cannabis enthusiasts will fall in love with this museum, which is dedicated to all things Cannabis Sativa L. There is an Amsterdam branch as well as a branch in Barcelona too. The building in Amsterdam, however, is the oldest Cannabis museum in the world, also thought to be the most important!

The museum has various displays showing the history and use of hemp, hash, and Marijuana. From early Japanese hemp clothing to Christopher Columbus’ connection with Cannabis, you can learn more about the different uses of hemp and hash throughout the years. All very educational!

Visit both of the two venues that make up the museum – a hash and marijuana venue with a Cannabis garden, and an industrial hemp museum. Together, these venues hold over 12 000 objects relating to Cannabis.

• Cost  – $10 USD
• How long should I stay here?  1 hour
• Getting there –  Take your bike or public transport.

3:00 PM – Experience an Amsterdam Cannabis Coffeeshop

There are many designated coffee shops in Amsterdam where you can go to buy and smoke weed. While this is somewhat of a controversial topic in places, it’s also one of the biggest tourist attractions to the city!

It’s important to note that coffee shops are different from koffiehuises and cafes. A coffee shop is the only place you’re going to find Mary-Jane on the menu. In many of the shops, you can bring your own and smoke – but it’s only legal to buy from the coffeeshops so the smartest thing to do is buy off their menu.

To find a licensed seller, look for the green and white sticker on their window. You won’t find joints on sale in an ordinary cafe or koffiehuis.

The strains and potency of the weed are not regulated in Amsterdam, so be careful when smoking – try out small amounts at a time. It’s also a great idea to share with a group! Cannabis can be a great way to make friends.

If you’re a little unsure about the ins and outs of visiting a coffee shop, why not take a guided walking tour , which includes an optional joint, it’s a great way to get some more information whilst making you feel totally comfortable.

• Cost  – Can vary between $7-$13 USD per gram
• How long should I stay here?  Up to you!
• Getting there –  You can easily find a shop in walking distance.

4:00 PM – Enjoy a Relaxing Canal Cruise

Something that everyone should do at least once in Amsterdam, is a canal cruise! Leaving this activity for last means that you’ll enjoy the sun setting over the city. This makes for some idyllic views.

The evening cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, and an audio guide is provided in your preferred language (they have 21 options). You’ll hear the history of Amsterdam, how it came to be the magnificent city it is today, and how it continues to thrive.

This is the perfect end to a busy day, and after the cruise, you can easily make your way to one of the nearby restaurants to enjoy a lovely meal.

If you’re here during the busy season you might want to pre-book your cruise to be sure you get it at the right time for sunset or dinner.

Insider Tip:  This is actually quite an activity to do right after visiting one of the coffee shops! (If you know what we mean!)

• Cost  – $25 USD
• How long should I stay here?  1.5-2 hours
• Getting there –  If you’re close to the canal, the next station will be in walking distance.

6:00 PM – Explore Leidseplein

Get ready to party with the locals at Leidseplein! This square comes alive at night, offering up a host of nightclubs, bars, and other fun-loving spots. There are 100s of restaurants in and surrounding the square, and some great international food to be found!

For those who are into betting, there’s a casino in the area as well. Arguably, though, the biggest highlight of the area is the assortment of live music found at various establishments.

It’s also not too far away from the Central district, and public transport runs through to the other districts as well, so you won’t have any hassle getting back to your hotel! This is the best way to end your Amsterdam visit if you only have 2 days in Amsterdam.

• Cost  – Depends on your consume.
• How long should I stay here?  2-3 hours
• Getting there –  Take Public Transport/Uber so yo can have a few drinks!

If you’ve booked 3 days in Amsterdam (or perhaps even more!) then you’ve got the perfect opportunity to view some of the lesser-known Amsterdam attractions. While the city caters well for the throngs of tourists it receives each year, there are many more things that you should take a look at.

9:00 AM – Take a Ferry to Amsterdam North

Don’t be one of ‘those’ tourists! You know, the ones that never leave the central district. It can be tempting – since most of the sights are right there! Trust us, though, you should see the Northern districts if you’re staying for longer than a day or two.

The ferries to the Noord are an experience unlike most. Firstly, the majority of them are completely free! They allow bicycles and mopeds to be taken on as well, so you have your transport ready for exploring on the other side.

There is no booking, no tickets, and no fuss! Amsterdam’s northern districts are full of delightful spots for a small bite to eat and a refreshing drink. Or you can take a short trip up to the nearby nature reserve, where you can take in gorgeous views of the landscape, and the windmill!

While you’re there, you should really check out the pancake boat. This is a small cruise boat that takes you down the IJ River while serving you an all-you-can-eat pancake buffet!

• Cost  – Free!
• Getting there –  Use maps to find the closest station!

11:30 AM – Enjoy a Tour of the House of Bols

The Bols family were celebrated Dutch spirit-makers and alcohol sellers who left quite a legacy. Located centrally to all the exciting happenings in Amsterdam, you’ll find the House of Bols. This Genever house is both an academy and a museum of sorts.

You can book a self-guided tour through the distillery, which will give you a detailed history of Lucas Bols himself. See how the Bols legacy began, and how it has evolved through the years.

Take a tour through the different rooms in the ‘house’. You’ll make your way through an entire cocktail experience that will ignite your senses. From sight, smell and, of course, taste.

Then you’ll make your way to the ingredient room, which will help you discover the ingredients that go into creating an authentic genever. Afterwards, pay a visit to the Genever Room, and learn more about the history of Genever itself.

Then, finally, it’s time for one of the skilled bartenders to create your choice of cocktails. Enjoy it slowly with your group in the mirror bar. Once you’ve finished your drink, you’ll get a crash course in bartending, and will have the chance to make your very own cocktail!

• Cost  – $18
• Getting there –  Take a bike and enjoy the city views.

1:30 PM – Stroll through a Park or Two

Amsterdam is home to more than 30 parks and gardens – each one as majestic as the next! These green oases are perfect for a break from city life. You’ll find parks both big and small, as well as many extraordinary Botanical Gardens.

If you’ve already managed to view and visit the big tourist attractions throughout the city, your next move should definitely be a picnic in the park.

During fair weather months, you may even catch some live music, or a festival bringing one of the parks to life! These are sure to get you in the spirit and are a great way to meet other travellers and locals.

Many of the parks are also fantastic places to hop on board a gondola and enjoy one (or more!) of the famous canal cruises that we keep talking about!

• Getting there –  Walk or take your bike!

3:30 PM – Check Out Dam Square

The city square, known as The Dam, is home to many famed Amsterdam attractions. Places such as the Royal Palace, New Church and Madame Tussauds are all around the square. You can easily walk from one attraction to the next, and manage to see them all in a day!

The square is also close to the Red Light District and offers many cannabis coffeeshops along its streets. Visit one of these and experience the smokier side of Amsterdam. The Red Light District offers up its own itinerary of interesting fun.

You can also go for a canal cruise from nearby, making this the best spot to start a day of exploring! Since there are so many things to do and see, it’s best if you dedicate a large portion of your day to The Dam.

If you’re in town during one of the festivals or special days, you’ll see the square light up with excitement and transform into what seems like another world! The best and most popular festival is probably King’s Day, which is celebrated every April.

• Getting there –  Public Transport/Bike is the most efficient way.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Amsterdam

Westerpark is close enough to the city centre to make exploring a breeze, yet just far enough away to offer a more chilled out stay making it the best place to stay in Amsterdam for first-time visitors.

• Admire the artistic works at Museum Het Schip.
• Relax at Het Stenen Hoofd, an urban beach that’s popular with locals.
• Sample local beers at De Prael brewery and Troost.

Did you fall in love with the city? Don’t worry, we don’t blame you! We’ve listed up a couple of other awesome places that you might want to check out if you’ve got more than 3 days in Amsterdam. 

Visit Ouderkerk Aan de Amstel

This quaint little village sits just outside Amsterdam. You can reach the village easily by bike, bus, or boat! Or, if you prefer, you can take a drive out; either with a rental car or by ordering an Uber.

There are many groups that cycle together from Amsterdam to Ouderkerk Aan de Amstel, but the boat ride up the Amstel River is just as scenic! You could also opt for an early morning cycle, and then go back to the city in an open boat – weather permitting!

There is quite a surprising number of things to do in the village! From checking out the beautiful windmill at the bottom of the village to trying out some traditional Dutch cuisine in one of the many restaurants dotted along the river bank.

Mostly, strolling through the cobbled streets and greeting the friendly locals is an experience on its own! The village offers a delightful break away from human chattering and car motors and lets you sit in wonder while listening to the birds sing.

• Getting there –  Preferably by boat, but Uber works too.

If you love food, and who doesn’t, then this is the best place in Amsterdam. In this neighbourhood, you’ll find everything you’ve ever wanted to eat from dim sum to pizza and doughnuts. This area was once an old tram depot, so it has plenty of history behind it. But it’s now filled with food stores that offer some of the best snacks in the city.

Take your appetite and go from stall to stall in this area. Try everything that peaks your fancy and take your food to one of the outside benches and watch the crowds while you eat. When you’re full, there are several shops and boutiques selling clothes, ornaments and other goods that you can browse in.

And as is the norm with Amsterdam, the shops are all quirky and unique, so make sure you enjoy the atmosphere while you’re there.

• Cost  – Free to visit
• Getting there –  Easy to reach by Public Transport

Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like the alternative music scene in Amsterdam. This is a city that prides itself on being different from everyone else, and that’s definitely reflected in the music at this venue. Run by volunteers, this is the best place to hear some of Amsterdam’s up and coming musical talent. And the location is actually a legal squat, which makes it all the more interesting and unusual.

Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like the alternative music scene in Amsterdam. This is a city that prides itself on being different from everyone else, and that’s definitely reflected in the music at this venue.

• Cost  – It really depends on the night.
• How long should I stay here?  Up to you
• Getting there –  Grab an Uber!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

While it is impossible to say that there is a ‘worst’ time to visit Amsterdam, many have differing opinions on the ‘best’ time to go.

Of course, it depends solely on the type of activities that you enjoy most. Each of the four seasons fully transforms and takes over Amsterdam’s landscapes, and each brings with it a new list of things to do.

Visiting Amsterdam during the winter will mean lots of rain and dreary days. This is also the low tourist season in Amsterdam, which means there will be fewer tourists and cheaper prices. You also might get lucky and see some snow!

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring and autumn i.e. the shoulder months. The weather will be fair, the tourists haven’t arrived in force yet, and prices will be reasonable.

Summer is when the streets of Amsterdam are jam-packed. As such, prices will be higher but Amsterdam is really fun during this time and it’s the best time for taking day trips in Amsterdam due to the longer and warmer days.

While you’re there, why not check out other places in the Netherlands? The country might be small, but there is an incredible amount to explore.

Packing for Amsterdam is like packing for any other European country . Depending on the season, you’ll need shorts & t-shirts or warm things to cover up. Amsterdam can get quite cold during the winter months, so be sure to pack a warm pair of boots and a good jacket. Apart from that, dressing casual and packing the essentials is plenty enough for your Amsterdam trip. When you’re in Northern Europe it’s always best to pack a waterproof jacket too!

OK,  Amsterdam is a relatively safe city.   However, its popularity with tourists – and permissiveness for drugs and sex – can sometimes cause slight chaos. It is arguably the most dangerous city in the Netherlands … which actually isn’t saying much!!

Don’t be alarmed though! The peril is not quite as bad as it may seem. Most of the crime and chaotic disturbances happen in the Red Light District. While many tourists arrive in the city with the decided purpose to visit this notorious district, it’s not advised that you stroll the streets alone at night. Petty theft in this area is pretty common and inebriated tourists are often the victims.

Staying safe everywhere else in Amsterdam is quite easy, actually. Stay vigilant when walking down quiet streets alone. Keep your valuables close to you. Don’t buy any illegal drugs – this is the quickest way to screw up your visit.

Also, don’t fall for scammers. As with any tourist destination, you’re going to find people looking for a quick buck. Stick to your guns and don’t let sob stories or crafty tales cause you to lose valuable exploring money.

And last, but definitely not least, don’t smoke weed anywhere but in a coffee shop. It’s not legal everywhere, and you wouldn’t want to get yourself into trouble in a foreign city.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Amsterdam

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Amsterdam itinerary.

How many days do you need in Amsterdam?

The perfect amount of time to spend in Amsterdam is three days.

What should I avoid in Amsterdam?

Be careful when booking accommodation as often they can be a scam. Check out our guide on where to stay in Amsterdam if you need help with accommodation.

What should I add to my Amsterdam itinerary in the winter?

The Rijksmuseum is one of the top museums in the world and it’s huge, you could easily spend a few hours here, making it the perfect winter activity.

What is a cool thing to do in Amsterdam at night?

One of the coolest, and strangest, things to do at night in Amsterdam is to take a stroll down the Red Light district. It is certainly an eye-opener…and not suitable for children.

Ready for your Amsterdam adventure yet? We bet you are! This city is indeed a fast-growing commercialised tourist spot but it’s still a wondrous place to visit. Between the natural beauty, the spectacular architecture, and the great cultural vibes, it’s a city that everyone should see at least once.

Spend a fast-paced weekend in Amsterdam, or book a longer, slower stay – it’s up to you! It may work out a bit too expensive to spend more than 3 days in Amsterdam, but there is always the option to stay in a neighbouring village. Many locals cycle from these villages to the city centre, so it can’t be that hard!

However long you do decide to stay, be sure to tick off the must-see attractions so that you leave with no regrets!

Mathilde Magnier

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The Perfect 4 to 5 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

Last Updated on February 26, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning out the perfect 4 to 5 days in Amsterdam itinerary is a highlight of mapping out a trip to Western or Northern Europe. As one of the most visited cities in Europe, it’s no surprise why – from its picturesque canals to some of the world’s best museums, restaurants, a vibrant history, and a laid-back, open-minded attitude.

Amsterdam is truly a city where classic and modern combine to make such an atmospheric city and where wandering the streets and passing the many bicycles of the city while catching scents of stroopwafel is a joy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Amsterdam?

While many people just visit Amsterdam for a weekend getaway, I think that it’s a disservice to the city as there’s an abundance of things to explore and places to visit beyond a 2-day trip.

Even just extending your trip to 3 days in Amsterdam, you’ll have the opportunity to go a bit beyond the typical tourist path and route, giving a more holistic experience of this spirited Dutch city.

4 days is even more ideal as you’ll have more time to do the city justice, exploring further into local culture and getting to know the city off the beaten path.

Finally, if you have the opportunity and time to spend 5 days, you’re in for a treat. While 4 days in Amsterdam is sufficient to explore the city to the best extent, it is still very much a touristy city with a different pace of life compared to the rest of the country.

With 5 whole days, you’ll have the time to visit a neighboring city such as Utrecht or Rotterdam by just a short train journey, giving a full taste of the country.

And if you’re wondering the best time to visit Amsterdam, keep in mind that it is a thriving city that attracts visitors year-round. For the best weather (and the most crowds) the summer months can be ideal. However, if you want to see the city decked out for the holidays, visiting in the winter can be a great choice, as well.

Getting To & Around Amsterdam

As one of the largest airports globally, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport receives flights from both European and international destinations, serving as the point of arrival for air travel.

From the airport to the city center, Schiphol Airport is just 17 km away from Amsterdam Centraal Train Station and can be easily reached by direct train transport in just around 15 minutes with frequent train services. There are also shuttle buses from the airport.

If you’re planning on visiting other destinations in the country, Amsterdam Centraal Train Station has frequent connections to most cities as well as train services to other European destinations, with high-speed rail such as Eurostar. You can find trains to Amsterdam from cities like Paris , London , Brussels and more. You can view schedules here .

Another option if you’re looking to save money and pass on train transportation, is to take a bus, as there are convenient and affordable bus transportation options throughout the Netherlands along with bus transport to other nearby countries.

Flixbus is the best option, as prices are low and buses are comfortable and on time, journeys can be booked here.

As for getting around the city, the center is quite walkable and a pleasure to explore by foot, getting lost in the nooks and crannies.

For a local mode of transport, Amsterdam is the bike capital of the world, and wandering the city by bike is the perfect way to experience the city like a local, albeit with a touch of courage!

If you prefer public transportation or are keen to explore outside of the city center, there is comprehensive and efficient public transportation consisting of buses, trams, metro, and ferries.

Single tickets for public transportation can be purchased from ticket vending machines in the city, but to save money, I suggest getting an OV-chipkaart card , which is a rechargeable card that can be used on all modes of public transportation.

You can also purchase an Amsterdam City Card that includes entry to many attractions and public transport if you plan on visiting a number of sights in the city and can keep your costs down in Amsterdam .

4 to 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary

This route will bring you through the main sights of the city center and into the city’s art, culture, and delicious food scene.

There is much more than its infamous Red Light District and this itinerary will highlight that.

Day 1 – Amsterdam Main Sightseeing

The first day of this itinerary focuses on some of the main attractions in central Amsterdam. You can take a walking tour to learn more about the history of the city with a tour guide.

There’s no better place to start your day than in Dam Square. Quite literally in the center of the city, Dam Square positions you in the ideal spot to begin exploring.

Dam Square is a historical and cultural landmark of Amsterdam that has been an important gathering place for locals and visitors for centuries, with important monuments encircling the square such as the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).

Royal Palace (​​Koninklijk Paleis)

Of all the monuments surrounding Dam Square, the monument most worth visiting is the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.

The palace was built in the 17th century as a city hall, later becoming a royal palace in the early 19th century, and now serves as a venue for state visits, official receptions, and is open for visitors to witness this impressive example of Dutch classical architecture and its rich history and culture.

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam regularly hosts exhibitions, showcasing a variety of art, history, and culture. These exhibitions provide a unique perspective on different aspects of Dutch history and society, making it a great starting point for your time in Amsterdam.

The Royal Palace is open to visitors almost every day of the year, except for some holidays and official events. The opening hours can vary depending on the season, so it’s important to check the opening hours beforehand. You can book tickets here .

Wander Amsterdam Canals

Wandering the canals of Amsterdam is an essential part of any travel itinerary in this beautiful city. The picturesque waterways, lined with charming buildings and quaint bridges offer a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture and why it’s such a popular and timeless destination.

A great spot to begin is The Singel Canal, which is one of the oldest canals that make up the network of canals in Amsterdam. Afterwards, make your way to The Brouwersgracht (Brewers’ Canal) to enjoy one of Amsterdam’s most scenic and picturesque places.

This is also the perfect time of day to sit at one of the quaint cafes lining the canalled streets to watch local life go by and enjoy a coffee or a local Dutch beer.

De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets District) & Stroopwafel

The Nine Streets District of Amsterdam is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of the city’s historic canal belt.

The district is named after the nine narrow streets that run through it, which are lined with a diverse range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as historic buildings and picturesque canals.

The Nine Streets District is an ideal part of the city to take in local life, enjoy stunning surroundings, and enjoy the classic Dutch treat, stroopwafel, at the oldest bakery in the city, Hans Egstorf.

Day 2 – Canal Boat, Amsterdam Museums and Culture

Canal boat tour.

Day 2 will begin with a different perspective of the city than day 1, by heading out on a canal cruise.

By taking a canal boat tour of the city, you’ll be treated to a unique perspective on the city’s history and architecture, as well as the chance to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks from a different angle.

During a canal tour, you can expect to see some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights as well as the charming canal houses that line the waterways and enjoy some unique views of the city.

You’ll also pass under historic bridges and through picturesque neighborhoods, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s culture and daily life. Some options include this 1-hour cruise or this luxury option.

Albert Cuyp Market

After seeing the city by boat, make your way to the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood to one of the most popular open-air street markets in Amsterdam, Albert Cuypmarkt.

Since the 19th century, Albert Cuypmarkt has been the go-to spot for locals and tourists searching for a wide variety of goods for sale, including fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. It also operates as a beautiful flower market where you can purchase iconic tulips in season.

The Albert Cuypmarkt is the perfect spot to enjoy the lively local atmosphere of the city, taste some classic Dutch food, and pick up a souvenir from your time in Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam is a city steeped in history, art, and culture and the best way to learn more about this part of Amsterdam and Dutch history/art is to spend time at one of the most popular museums in the city.

Because of the density the top museums in the city, I suggest dedicating a large portion of your day to time at the museum(s) of your choice.

The most visited museum in the Netherlands, The Rijksmuseum, is the largest museum of art and history in the country.

Its extensive collection includes over one million objects, spanning over 800 years of Dutch art and history, and is known for its famous works of art from the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Vermeer’s Milkmaid. You can book tickets in advance here or organise a guided tour here .

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is another wonderful option for a museum visit in Amsterdam. The Van Gogh Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh.

The museum features the largest collection of his paintings and drawings in the world, as well as a deeper look into the life of Vincent Van Gogh. You can book tickets in advance here or organise a guided tour here .

And if you want an experience away from the art museums, then consider spending sometime relaxing in the vast Museumplein Park near both the Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum or heading over to the nearby Heineken Brewery.

In the latter spot, you can book the Heineken Experience where you can learn all about the history of this popular beer and how it’s brewed.

Day 3 – Dutch Food, Bike Tour & Green Amsterdam

Vondelpark & dutch pancakes.

There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam in 3 days so you certainly won’t be wanting for activities.

A great way to begin day 3 is by enjoying a breakfast made up of poffertjes, which are small and delicious traditional pancakes served with various tasty toppings. A great location is The Pancake Club, a local restaurant near Vondelpark, the next stop on your itinerary.

Vondelpark is a beautiful public park located in the heart of the city, named after the famous poet Joost van den Vondel. The park covers over 47 hectares and is easily one of the most popular outdoor spots in all of Amsterdam.

Known for its beautiful gardens, ponds, and winding paths, Vondelpark is also a popular spot for picnics, concerts, and outdoor festivals during the summer months.

Whether you’re looking to get away from the crowd, spend time biking, or take an opportunity to enjoy a serene time in nature, Vondelpark is a brilliant addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

Bike Tour or Food Tour

The next stop will either be exploring the city by bicycle tour, or diving deeper into the taste of the local cuisine with a food tour.

Bike tours are a popular way to explore Amsterdam and experience the city like a local. The city is renowned for its bike-friendly infrastructure, with over 800,000 bicycles in the city, and numerous dedicated bike lanes and paths.

There are many different bike tour operators, offering a range of tours to suit your interests.

Some tours focus on the city’s famous landmarks and attractions, while others explore lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems. Tours often also include stops at local markets, cafes, and other points of interest. Some of the best options include this 3-hour bike tour or this half-day tour .

Food tours are a great way to explore the city’s culinary scene and sample its diverse range of cuisines. The city is home to a vibrant food culture, with a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international flavors creating a unique cuisine of Amsterdam.

You’ll find different food tour operators, offering a variety of experiences to suit your interests. Some tours focus on street food, while others visit local markets and food halls.

Tours often also include stops at speciality shops and restaurants giving an insight into Dutch history, and somewhere visitors can sample traditional dishes, such as stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen. Some of the best-rated options include this food walking tour and this 3-hour tour .

Anne Frank House

In the Jordaan neighborhood, you’ll find one of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam and the Netherlands, the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank, the famous young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II.

During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the museum with exhibits on Anne’s life and legacy, as well as an immersive experience through the secret annex where Anne and her family lived for over two years, which offers a comprehensive look into the harrowing experiences of the Frank family and other victims of the Holocaust.

The Anne Frank House Museum is open every day of the year, except for Yom Kippur and King’s Day, with opening hours varying depending on the season. You can also take a Jewish history walking tour before visiting the Anne Frank House.

Day 4 – Keukenhof Park or Zaanse Schans

If you’re seeing Amsterdam in 4 days, the is is the ideal point to head out of the city to an area near the capital to explore further into the country and Dutch culture.

Keukenhof Park

Few things are more synonymous with the Netherlands than the humble yet colorful tulip flower, and there’s no better place to witness these than at Keukenhof Park.

Also known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof Park is a world-famous flower garden located in Lisse, about 40 minutes outside of Amsterdam. The park is home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers, making it one of the largest flower gardens in the world.

During a visit, you can wander through the colorful gardens, admire the floral displays, and learn about the history and cultivation of tulips, the Netherlands’ number one export.

The most convenient way to reach Keukenhof Park is by direct shuttle transport from various points in the city with different bus companies depending on your location in the city. You can book transfers here .

Ticket costs for Keukenhof Park can vary depending on how you arrive, and it is highly recommended to book tickets in advance here .

Unfortunately, tulip season is quite short in the Netherlands, alas Keukenhof Park is only open for a short period each year, typically from late March to mid-May, when the flowers are in bloom.

Zaanse Schans

If you’re visiting out of tulip season, another spot worth visiting outside of the city is Zaanse Schans. Zaanse Schans is a historic neighborhood located in the town of Zaandam, just outside the city.

The neighborhood is known for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, including classic wooden houses, windmills, and workshops.

During a visit to Zaanse Schans, you will have the opportunity to explore the neighborhood and learn about traditional crafts such as cheese-making, clog-making, and chocolate-making.

In the area you’ll also find plenty of tulips if you visit in season, making it a great day trip option if you’re keen to see the tulips during your trip but prefer to bypass the high admission cost to Keukenhof Park.

To reach Zaanse Schans, take a 20-minute train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Koog-Zaandijk Station. From there, you can walk or take the bus to Zaanse Schans for around another 10 minutes. There are also organised day tours available .

Day 5 – Utrecht

If you’re seeing Amsterdam in 5 days, I suggest spending the 5th and final day of your itinerary in the nearby town of Utrecht . Alternatively, you could also easily do a day trip to a place like nearby Haarlem or Gouda if it suits.

Once the most important city in the Netherlands, Utrecht is an important historic city, located approximately 30 minutes south of Amsterdam, known for its beautiful canals, charming tree-lined streets, and rich cultural heritage.

Like Amsterdam, Utrecht is full of canals but without the hordes of tourists stuffing in to catch a picture. This makes Utrecht the perfect day trip from Amsterdam, offering the chance to experience such an idyllic, medieval university city that gives the feeling that you’ve fallen back in time into a fairytale.

Full of green parks, friendly locals, and delicious food and drink finds, Utrecht will only make you wish that you had more time to spend in this welcoming and warm alternative to Amsterdam.

While in Utrecht, make sure to visit the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, the Rietveld Schröder House (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and wander around the enchanting medieval city center while indulging in the most deliciously fresh Dutch fries from Frietwinkel, a local Utrecht staple.

Reaching Utrecht from Amsterdam is extremely quick and convenient. Trains run from Amsterdam Centraal to Utrecht Centraal (The Netherlands’ largest train station) just about every 10 minutes, with a journey time of 20-30 minutes depending on the train. You can book trains here .

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

‘t Hotel – This 3-star hotel is situated in a traditional canal house is a perfect place to stay for mid-range visitors to Amsterdam. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and an excellent location for exploring all the city has to offer.

Hotel Estheréa – If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Amsterdam, then this hotel is a great option. They have a range of beautiful and plush rooms on offer, a location only 300 meters from Dam Square and plenty of excellent amenities for guests to enjoy.

Amsterdam Jewel Canal Apartments – For those who’d like their own apartment while visiting the Dutch capital, these fully furnished flats are an excellent choice. There are a number of different apartments available and they have a wonderful location for exploring all the city has to offer.

Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark – Budget visitors to Amsterdam will love this highly-rated hostel located in the center of the city. They offer both traditional dorms and private rooms, have great common areas for meeting other travelers and there is also breakfast available in the morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Amsterdam hotels!

Amsterdam is one of the most beloved cities in Europe, and whether you’ve found yourself stuck into stroopwafel or enchanted by the tulips at Keukenhof Park, there’s no denying that the city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and charm that continues to draw visitors from all over the world.

Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

Is Amsterdam Expensive? An Amsterdam Trip Cost Guide

Copenhagen vs Amsterdam: Which City to Visit?

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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• How to Spend 4 Days in Amsterdam: Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers

Visiting Amsterdam is always a good idea! You’re guaranteed a good time here regardless of how many days you have to spend.

However, spending 4 days in Amsterdam is the perfect amount of time to check the highlights off your list, explore some hidden corners of the city, and make the most of the many day trips available to surrounding towns.

Below, you’ll find my all-encompassing Amsterdam 4 day itinerary, filled with many things to do to ensure you see the best of the aptly-named Venice of the North.

If you haven’t been before and are keen to see what all the fuss is about, you’re in for a real treat!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Amsterdam?

If your trip is coming up soon and you still haven’t booked anything, we have you covered! Below you can find our top picks when it comes to hotels, tours, getting around, and more.

Best Tours and Experiences in Amsterdam

• Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option (top-rated canal cruise)
• Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour
• Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour (most popular day trip)
• Van Gogh Museum Ticket (sells out really fast so make sure to grab them as soon as possible)
• Heineken Experience (must-have tour for beer lovers)

Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

• Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht (best hotel in Amsterdam with canal views)
• W Amsterdam (amazing 5-star hotel with a stunning rooftop pool)
• De L’Europe Amsterdam (best luxury hotel in Amsterdam)
• Linden Hotel (amazing mid-range option in Jordaan)
• Singel Hotel Amsterdam (great budget pick in the city center)

Looking for the best way to get around Amsterdam? Make sure to buy a GVB Public Transport Ticket . Even if you only use public transport a few times, it’s already worth it!

Planning to visit a handful of attractions? You can save a lot of money by purchasing the I Amsterdam City Card . It includes free entry to more than 70 attractions, unlimited access to public transport, and a free canal cruise!

Overview of Your 4 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

Breakdown of your 4 days in amsterdam.

• Day 1: Dam Square & Royal Palace of Amsterdam, Madam Tussauds or The Amsterdam Dungeon, Begijnhof, Bloemenmarkt, Van Wonderen Stroopwafels, Damrak Canal Houses, Canal Cruise, Red Light District
• Day 2: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Vondelpark, Anne Frank House, Amsterdam Cheese Museum, Jordaan & 9 Streets, Foodhallen
• Day 3: Hoftuin Park, Amsterdam Museum or Hermitage Museum, National Holocaust Monument, Skinny Bridge, Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, Rembrandt House Museum, Albert Cuyp Market, Heineken Experience
• Day 4 : Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, Edam, A’DAM Lookout

Map for your 4 day Amsterdam itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Amsterdam itinerary.

I marked your 4 days in Amsterdam with different colors – I used blue for the first, yellow for the second, red for the third, and green for the fourth day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1 of Your 4 Days in Amsterdam

Dam square & royal palace of amsterdam.

There’s no better place to start your Amsterdam adventure than in Dam Square. Day or night, Dam Square is always full of life and is the epicenter for a bunch of the city’s top attractions.

In the square itself, you’ll probably notice the National Monument commemorating those who lost their lives in the Second World War and the unmissable Royal Palace of Amsterdam .

Despite its name, the palace is where the royals host events like award ceremonies and state visits, and the family actually resides in a lavish estate in the Hague.

Whenever the building is not used by the royal family, it’s accessible to the public, and since you have 4 days in Amsterdam, I’d recommend going in for a tour.

The palace is absolutely breathtaking, and it’s home to many lavishly decorated rooms. I’m not kidding when I say that my jaw was on the floor the whole time we were inside!

You’ll need around 1-1.5 hours to comfortably tour the whole place and I suggest picking up a free audio guide to really uncover the palace’s long history.

Madame Tussauds or Amsterdam Dungeon

No matter where in the world you go, a visit to Madame Tussauds is always a good time.

You won’t have to walk far, as Amsterdam’s edition of this iconic wax museum is within Dam Square, where you’ll bump into the likes of Harry Styles, Jennifer Anniston, and Beyonce.

Thrill-seekers might want to opt for a visit to the eerie Amsterdam Dungeon instead, which is just a 4-minute walk away. Here, you’ll be taken on a terrifying journey through Dutch history with plenty of terror and surprises along the way.

As I absolutely loved the London Dungeon during our London trip, I knew I had to try the Amsterdam version and it did not disappoint!

You are not allowed to take any photos inside, so you’ll just have to trust my word on this – if you love live performances and interactive experiences, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the Amsterdam Dungeon.

Insider tip: You can get 25% off at both attractions with the I Amsterdam City Card .

When you’ve had your fill of shockingly life-like wax figures or jumpscares, make the super short walk to the tranquil Begijnhof.

Consisting of a collection of traditional homes surrounding a grassy courtyard, the Begijnhof is Amsterdam’s best-known hofje, which is a group of homes for unmarried religious women, many of whom still live here today.

Make sure you catch a glimpse of Amsterdam’s oldest surviving house during your visit, No. 34, but remember to ensure you’re quiet and respectful of the surroundings.

Bloemenmarkt

When you’re ready to head back out into the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, head to the nearby Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market.

As soon as you step inside, your eyes won’t know where to look! Hundreds of brightly-colored flowers, bulbs for every plant you could think of, and heaps of quirky souvenirs are all on display at the Bloemenmarkt.

Although you might spot some of The Netherlands’ beloved tulips here throughout the year, anyone visiting between March and May will see the best of these stunning flowers, as they’re in full bloom in the spring.

If you want to take home some tulip bulbs with you, you can find many pre-packaged bulbs that are ready for international travel (remember that these have to be officially stamped for export). Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s absolutely worth strolling around the market as it’s a real feast for the eyes.

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels

After a busy morning of sightseeing, it’s about time for a quick snack, and what would be a better way to treat yourself than trying the famous stroopwafels?

Just 260 meters (0.16 miles) from the Bloemenmarkt, you’ll find Van Wonderen Stroopwafels , the most buzzing spot in the capital for these sweet caramel-filled waffle cookies.

You can expect to find a line outside at any time of day, but the minute you tuck into your chocolate, marshmallow, or Lotus-topped stroopwafel, I think you’ll find that they’re worth the wait.

We loved these sweet treats so much that we went back almost every day – no kidding! I’d recommend going for the medium or mega size and topping it with marshmallows – it was my favorite combo, and it was absolutely delicious.

Damrak Canal Houses

Once you’ve polished off your stroopwafels, stroll along the waterside and admire the hundreds of canal houses with which Amsterdam has become synonymous.

After around 20 minutes of walking, you’ll come across the Damrak Canal Houses, some of the most famous and historic homes in all of the city.

Often nicknamed the Dancing Houses, these colorful buildings have gotten their names thanks to their slightly crooked appearance and always seem to look as if they’re holding each other up.

This is one of my favorite photo spots in Amsterdam – you seriously can’t take a bad photo here so make sure to have your camera ready!

Canal Cruise

If there’s one thing you most definitely can’t skip out on during your 4 days in Amsterdam, it’s a canal cruise down the dozens of enchanting waterways.

Experience the city from a whole new perspective from the comfort of a cruise boat, passing under cute bridges, squeezing through narrow canals, and, of course, doing some people-watching.

Best of all, there are so many boat tours to choose from , with everything from budget-friendly trips to romantic evening sailings and lively booze cruises available to you. However, this tour is my top recommendation, as you can add on a cheese and wine package!

Read Next: 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With

Red Light District

Your drop-off point will vary depending on the cruise you’ve picked, but you’ll likely be between a 10 or 20-minute walk from the infamous Red Light District, where you’ll finish up your first day of explorations.

De Wallen is Amsterdam’s most well-known Red Light District, and here you’ll pass by erotic museums, countless windows lined with sex workers, adult stores, and a ton of late-night bars.

Although it’s easy to assume that this pocket of Amsterdam is dangerous, there’s a pretty heavy police force in the area, and it’s generally considered to be very safe.

The only rule you need to abide by is that you can’t take any photos of the workers here, so it’s best to keep your camera or phone in your pockets.

If you would rather explore the area with a knowledgeable local guide, you can join this  Red Light District Tour . The tour is available in English or German and departs at 8 pm every day. During the tour, you can learn more about prostitution, coffee shops, and the history of the district.

Day 2 of Your 4 Days in Amsterdam

Rijksmuseum.

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is touring its many museums, so it’s time to start!

If I had to pick only one museum to visit in Amsterdam, it would be the Rijksmuseum , so I recommend starting your day with this one. Easily the capital’s most-visited museum, this is a can’t-miss attraction for anyone with an interest in art.

Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Vermeer’s Milkmaid, and Van Gogh’s self-portrait are just some of the thousands of incredible artworks from the Dutch Golden Age that call the Rijkmuseum home, and you could easily spend hours here.

Getting your tickets online is best if you’re visiting during the summer, but they’re also available on entry.

Insider tip:  Entrance is free with the  I Amsterdam City Card !

Van Gogh Museum

Within a five-minute walk from Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum , where you’ll have the chance to see some of the Dutch painter’s most treasured pieces.

As well as seeing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world, including a Starry Night and Sunflowers, hundreds of his favorite paintings and prints from artists he admired are also on display. 

Along with the permanent exhibits, there are usually some temporary showcases, too.

With so much to see, it’s a good idea to join a guided tour to get a better understanding of what you’re looking at, but you can also buy a standard ticket if you prefer.

Insider tip: Getting tickets to the Van Gogh Museum is a bit tricky as they usually sell out quite far in advance. Make sure to check the tickets at least two weeks ahead of your visit and book them as soon as you can.

Amsterdam’s back garden, Vondelpark, is less than a 15-minute stroll from the Van Gogh Museum and is among the most laidback places you’ll find in the city.

Walk along the pathways and pass by water fountains, sprawling green spaces, and tranquil ponds, or jump on a classic or electric bike and see the park like a local.

There are a couple of lovely cafes scattered around Vondelpark where you’ll be able to grab a coffee or a quick bite to eat, plus a huge playground for anyone who happens to be traveling with little explorers.

Anne Frank House

A devastating but unmissable edition to your 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary is a stop at the Anne Frank House , a museum formed on the site where this young girl chronicled her family’s journey as they hid for two years during the Holocaust.

When you visit, you’ll see the bookcase that hid the entrance to the secret annex and original items from the kitchen, along with countless photos and videos.

Tickets for the Anne Frank House always tend to sell out well in advance, so you’ll need to snap up yours as early as possible. Every Tuesday, tickets for the upcoming six weeks become available online, so keep your eyes on the website!

You have to reserve your tickets for a specific timeslot, so you might need to move around the activities on this day depending on which timeslot you receive.

Photography and videography are forbidden inside, so you can leave your camera in the cloakroom along with your other stuff.

Insider tip: If you want to learn even more about Anne Frank while touring the Jewish Quarter, you can join this Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour .

Amsterdam Cheese Museum

After a gut-wrenching experience at the Anne Frank, you’ll appreciate something a little lighter at the nearby Amsterdam Cheese Museum .

The Netherlands has its fair share of excellent cheeses from Edam, Gouda, and Maasdam, and the Amsterdam Cheese Museum gives you an insight into how these cheeses are made.

When you walk in, you’ll be offered a tonne of free samples, including truffle goat cheese and chili cheese, while downstairs is the super cute and free museum.

If you have room in your suitcase, stock up on your favorite varieties, most of which are vacuum-packed and easy to travel with.

Jordaan & 9 Streets

Next up is the trendy and picturesque neighborhood of Jordaan, which is just a 10-minute walk from the Amsterdam Cheese Museum. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam and also my favorite area to stroll around!

Jordaan was once a working-class area of Amsterdam and has developed into one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods, consisting of boutique stores, hip cafes, and a thriving nightlife scene.

The enchanting nine streets, a collection of stunning avenues lined with upscale shops and some of the city’s most incredible hotels, lie within the Jordaan district. They have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to their old-world allure and beauty.

If you love cute cafes, you have to stop by my favorite one: Le Petit Deli . It’s a cute little café with French-inspired decor and incredibly delicious pastries and cakes.

Amsterdam has hundreds of top-quality eateries, but the Foodhallen is a true foodie heaven in the heart of the city.

You’ll work up an appetite as you make your way over from Jordaan, which is around 20 minutes away on foot.

Once you arrive, you’ll quickly find that the Foodhallen is a true feast for the senses, with stalls selling everything from drool-worthy tacos and crunchy Vietnamese banh mis to spicy noodle dishes and juicy burgers.

If this is your first time here, I recommend starting with De Ballenbar. You have to try the local bitterballs, which are deep-fried meatballs covered in crunchy breadcrumbs. They are super delicious!

Day 3 of Your 4 Days in Amsterdam

Hoftuin park.

Start the third day of your 4 day Amsterdam itinerary by exploring some of the hidden gems in Amsterdam located in the Old Jewish Quarter and the Plantage area.

First, make your way to Hoftuin Park, a small and serene garden located next to the Hermitage Museum. It’s only a few minutes walk from the Waterlooplein metro station, but depending on where you’re staying in Amsterdam, you might be able to walk too.

This hidden gem is perfect for a peaceful morning stroll or a picnic surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees.

It’s also home to one of my favorite breakfast places in Amsterdam : Dignita Hoftuin. This cozy cafe offers delicious and healthy breakfast options, as well as a beautiful outdoor seating area in the park.

Amsterdam Museum or H’ART Museum

After breakfast (or just a quick stroll around the park), you have two museums to choose from for your next stop: the Amsterdam Museum or the Hermitage Museum.

The Amsterdam Museum gives you an overview of the highs and lows of The Netherlands throughout time.

With a unique exhibition for each historical period, the Amsterdam Museum uses displays, videos, art, and artifacts to take you through the city’s storied history, which is really brought to life with the audio guide included in your ticket.

The building in which the museum is set is also steeped in history, having once stood as an orphanage run by nuns during the 1500s, prior to the Reformation.

On the other hand, H’ART Museum is now presenting various arts from three international partners: the British Museum, Centre Pompidou, and Smithsonian American Art Museum.

The museum was formerly known as Hermitage Amsterdam, and it used to house an impressive collection from the world-renowned Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. After the recent events, the museum has cut ties with Russia and renamed itself H’ART with a new concept starting in September 2023.

Both museums offer unique and fascinating exhibitions, so choose whichever one interests you more.

National Holocaust Monument

Another attraction you can’t miss next to Hoftuin Park is one of Amsterdam’s newest and most culturally significant landmarks, the National Holocaust Monument.

The four red brick, mirror-topped sections of the monument come together to spell the Hebrew phrase for ‘In Memory Of’ from above.

Each brick has a name engraved onto it for each of the known Holocaust victims in Amsterdam, while some are left blank to represent unnamed members of the Jewish community who suffered during World War II.

An incredibly solemn point of interest, this monument sheds some light on the darker sides of Dutch history.

Skinny Bridge

Seeing Amsterdam in 4 days wouldn’t be complete without a walk to the Skinny Bridge, just a 5-minute walk from Hoftuin Park.

Connecting the areas of Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, this revered white bridge is said to be one of the most romantic spots in Amsterdam, and it’s believed that couples who kiss under the bridge will be blessed with eternal love.

You might wonder why it’s fondly called the Skinny Bridge despite not being particularly narrow, but this overpass was initially much smaller and was only wide enough to allow two people to pass each other at a time.

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

As you might have figured out from the name, the Hortus Botanicus is Amsterdam’s botanical garden, which happens to be one of the oldest of its kind on the planet.

At just over 5 minutes from Hoftuin Park or 10 minutes from the Skinny Bridge, these gardens feel like a tropical oasis hidden amongst the busy streets of central Amsterdam.

Home to a spectacular butterfly house with dozens of colorful species, vibrant flowers, and a rainforest room, you won’t have to be an aspiring botanist to be impressed by this serene corner of the city.

If you would rather visit some free parks, you can stroll around either J. W. van Overloopplantsoen Park or Wertheimpark, both right next to Hortus Botanicus.

Rembrandt House Museum

Around 650 meters away (0.4 miles) is the Rembrandt House Museum . Most of you could probably make a good guess as to who this place is named after!

Rembrandt van Rijn called this townhouse home for almost 20 years during the mid-1600s, and seeing where he completed many of his most coveted paintings makes for a totally different experience to that of the Rijksmuseum while also giving some detail about his private life.

Most of his pieces lie in galleries, but many of his etchings are on display here, and you might even catch an art demonstration during your visit.

Albert Cuyp Market

Situated around a 30-minute walk from the Rembrandthouse or a 20-minute metro ride away is the Albert Cuyp Market.

Everything and anything is available to buy here, and I mean everything! Think clothes, jewelry, flowers, fresh vegetables, souvenirs, and pretty much whatever else you can think of.

Even if you don’t plan on buying anything here, it’s worth spending time passing by each of the 260 stalls and seeing Europe’s largest market in action.

For a truly authentic Dutch experience, pay a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market between 9 am and 5 pm any day except Sunday.

Heineken Experience

Around a 7-minute walk from the market is the Heineken Experience, a must for all beer enthusiasts out there. I must admit, I’m not a beer fan myself, but I still enjoyed this experience very much!

The standard experience includes a 1.5-hour long interactive self-guided tour of Heineken’s former brewery, learning the brewing process, how Heineken became one of the world’s best-loved lagers, and sampling two glasses of this famous beer.

If you want to go all in, choose the VIP experience . This tour lasts for 2.5 hours and is led by a knowledgeable guide, and it also includes a visit to a hidden bar, plus a tasting of 5 different beers!

Insider tip: You can get 25% off with the I Amsterdam City Card .

Day 4 of Your 4 Days in Amsterdam

For the last day of your Amsterdam itinerary, it’s time to venture out of the city and discover the gorgeous towns that lie in the Dutch countryside. 

I have four recommendations for you: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken.

Now you have a choice to make: you can either explore independently by using public transport, or you can book this Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour , which will take you to all four towns and provide a guide for the day.

If you want to visit all these four places, I strongly recommend booking this tour. While it’s possible to visit them independently, you won’t be able to fit all of them into one day if you’re relying solely on public transport. Plus, the tour is an excellent value for money and will provide you with interesting information about each town.

If you’d rather explore independently, the good news is that you can easily reach all four towns by public transport. I’ll give you all the details below on how to get there from Amsterdam Central Station and you can choose your favorite towns to visit.

Another great way to visit these towns is to rent a bike and cycle there. The Netherlands is known for its cycling culture, and it’s a really popular way to explore the countryside. We visited Zaanse Schans this way on our first trip to Amsterdam, and it was such a lovely experience!

Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a perfect example of the other side of The Netherlands, as this neighborhood is filled with traditional windmills and colored wooden homes from the 1800s dotted along the riverside, many of which have been relocated from other parts of the country.

You can easily spend a few hours here exploring the windmills, visiting the wooden shoe workshop, and trying some delicious Dutch cheese. You can even enter one of the working windmills to see how they operate and learn more about their importance in Dutch culture.

How to get to Zaanse Schans:

• Bus (45 minutes): Take bus 391 from Amsterdam Central Station. It runs every 15 minutes.
• Train + walk (35-40 minutes): Hop on a regional train and get off at Zaandijk – Zaanse Schans station. From here, it’s a 15-20 minutes walk to reach Zaanse Schans.
• Bicycle (1 hour)

Visit the birthplace of the beloved Edam cheese, which is positioned just 20 minutes from the Dutch capital.

The town of Edam itself is quaint and idyllic, with peaceful canals and pretty buildings, but let’s face it, the cheese is what it’s all about here.

You’ll most likely find yourself hitting the Edam Cheese Market and the Story of Edam Cheese, a little museum detailing the rise of this popular cheese that also happens to offer some free samples.

From Amsterdam Central Station, catch the 314 bus, which will have you in Edam within 35-45 minutes. 

How to get to Edam:

• Bus (30 minutes): Take either bus 314 or bus 316 from the bus terminal at Amsterdam Central Station. Buses depart every 15 to 30 minutes.
• Bicycle (1 hour 10 minutes)

This colorful fishing village is just 23 km north of Amsterdam and has a much slower pace of life than the capital. I was absolutely blown away by this town!

Volendam has a picture-perfect harbor, delicious seafood, and a bunch of adorable streets to be explored, and it’s a window into Dutch traditions that you don’t always get to see in the bigger cities.

For a cultural experience, you can also visit Volendam Museum or take a tour of the Cheese Factory.

How to get to Volendam:

• Bus (30 minutes): Take bus 316 from the bus terminal at Amsterdam Central Station. Buses depart every 15 minutes. You can take this same bus to Edam which is only 5-minutes from Volendam so you can easily combine them into a day trip!

Not far from Volendam is the tiny village of Marken, which lies on a peninsula just 25 minutes from Amsterdam.

As small as Marken is, it boasts a history museum, a wooden shoe factory, and a 19th-century lighthouse, all of which are well worth visiting and easy to reach.

How to get to Marken:

• Bus (20 minutes): Bus 315 runs from Amsterdam directly to Marken and it leaves very frequently throughout the day.
• Ferry (30 minutes): If you want to combine a visit to Marken with Volendam, hop on the scenic ferry that connects the two areas.

A’DAM Lookout

As the final evening of your 4 days in Amsterdam comes to a close, you’ll hopefully arrive back in the city center before the sun sets.

Many of you will land at Central Station, and just 10 minutes from here is the A’DAM Lookout , home to the famous rooftop swing, a thrilling VR ride through Amsterdam, and some of the most magical views in the city.

There’s also a rooftop bar, which is one of my favorite places for a glass of wine in the city. It’s especially amazing at sunset as the city lights start to twinkle below.

Get your tickets online or at the office on-site, head up to the observation deck, and finish your vacation with a drink at the plush Sky Bar.

Useful Info for Spending 4 Days in Amsterdam

Where to stay in amsterdam.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam for 4 days, you’ll want to stay as close to the city center as possible. While staying in the city center is one of the most convenient options, it’s also quite expensive. You can save some money by staying a bit further out and using public transport to get around.

Some popular areas to stay in Amsterdam are:

• Jordaan: A trendy area filled with cafes, galleries, and boutique shops. It’s also close to major attractions.
• De Pijp: A lively district with plenty of bars and restaurants. It’s a bit further from the city center but still within walking distance.
• Museum Quarter: As the name suggests, this area is home to some of Amsterdam’s top museums, like Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. It’s also close to Vondelpark, a popular park for picnics and strolls.

To learn more about each neighborhood and find the perfect accommodation for your stay, check out our complete guide to where to stay in Amsterdam .

Looking for a unique experience? Then browse through our guide to the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam or the  best Amsterdam hotels with canal views .

In a hurry? Check out our top recommendations for different budgets below.

• Luxury | Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam
• Mid-range | NH Amsterdam Schiller
• Budget | Bridge Inn

How to get to Amsterdam

If you’re visiting from elsewhere in Europe, the easiest way to reach Amsterdam is by train. Amsterdam Centraal Station is well-connected to other major cities like Paris, London, and Berlin.

For those traveling from further away, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a major international airport with flights arriving from all over the world. From there, you can take a 20-minute train ride to Amsterdam Central Station or hop on a bus or taxi.

How to get around in Amsterdam

Most attractions are within walking distance from the city center, so get ready to put on those walking shoes! You can also take advantage of Amsterdam’s extensive public transport network, which includes buses, trams, metro, and ferries.

To use public transport in Amsterdam, I recommend buying a GVB Public Transport Ticket . They have different options from one to seven days, so you can choose the one that best fits your itinerary.

One single GVB ticket costs €3.40, so if you’re planning to use public transport more than twice a day, the GVB ticket will definitely save you money.

Another popular option is to purchase an I Amsterdam City Card , which offers free access to public transportation as well as discounts on attractions and activities. This card is valid for one, two, three, or four consecutive days.

Best time to visit Amsterdam

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring (April and May) when the tulips are in full bloom or in September when summer crowds have dispersed. The weather is mild and pleasant during these months, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer is the peak tourist season in Amsterdam, and while the city is buzzing with energy, it can also get quite crowded. If you’re planning to visit during this time, be prepared for long lines at popular attractions and higher prices.

No matter when you decide to visit, make sure to check the weather forecast beforehand and pack accordingly. Bring an umbrella for those unexpected showers and dress in layers to stay comfortable, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.

Planning a trip to Amsterdam?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Amsterdam. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Amsterdam hotel guides:

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
• 24 Best Amsterdam Hotels with Canal Views
• 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam for an Unforgettable City Break

Amsterdam travel guides:

• 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List
• 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With
• One Day in Amsterdam: How to See the Best of Amsterdam in a Day
• The Perfect 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First Timers
• 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary
• 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

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4 Days in Amsterdam: Detailed Itinerary, Map & Tips (Perfect for 1st Trip)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 6, 2024

Visiting Amsterdam for 4 days and wondering how to best plan your time and make the most of your trip? In this guide, we share a suggested Amsterdam 4 days itinerary based on our recent visit ( and taking into account what can actually be done). It includes all the top sights, several amazing places that are usually overlooked by first-time travelers, and a few really nice tours that will make your trip even more special. Take a look!

The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is a lively charming city that has a lot to offer to any type of traveler. With unique architecture, fascinating history, impressive landmarks, world-class museums, and countless fun attractions, you can easily fill four days in Amsterdam and never get bored.

In addition, it’s very simple to add at least one (half) day trip outside the city into your itinerary. On this particular trip, we opted to visit some windmills and a few of the nicest villages near Amsterdam. You will find this option described below, together with some alternative recommendations.

Our suggested 4-day Amsterdam itinerary shows you the very best of Amsterdam but also allows you to get a bit off the beaten path and truly experience the city.

Good to know: This itinerary is based on our personal experience and on what can actually be done . It’s quite busy but also not too packed. It takes into account opening times, walking distances, and the time you need to visit each place. We also include some alternative suggestions so that you can personalize and plan your own perfect trip based on what interests you the most.

To help you plan your trip to Amsterdam, you will find our interactive map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. That way, you will have a much better idea of how it all fits together.

And finally, on each day of this itinerary, you will also find our personal restaurant recommendations for dinner, as well as some tips on where to eat for lunch.

PRO TIP: Where applicable, you will find practical info and tips on which tickets to prebook for the main signs in Amsterdam. Be sure to pre-book tickets to all the places that you absolutely want to see!!!

Some of the most popular museums in Amsterdam nowadays only sell tickets online, and they always sell out. Without advance reservations, you will not be able to visit certain places at all. Planning a spontaneous visit to Amsterdam as we used to do in the past is no longer straightforward.

The good thing is that by booking in advance, you can immediately see if the place you want to visit is open that day. That way, you can adjust your schedule where needed and can be sure that you will be able to see all the top sights that the city is famous for.

Where to stay: For this itinerary, we recommend staying in the heart of the city – the area between the Central Station and Rijksmuseum. Close to the station, we recommend Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam . Closer to the main museums, we absolutely love Park Centraal Hotel .

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: 1 Day in Amsterdam & 2 Days in Amsterdam & 3 Days in Amsterdam

• DAY 1: Historic city center and canals.
• DAY 2: Museums, markets, food, beer.
• DAY 3: Dutch countryside, the modern side of Amsterdam, Red Light District.
• DAY 4: Get outside the city or explore off the beaten path + Jewish sites/Life of Anne Frank tour.
• Where to stay

MAP of this 4-day Amsterdam itinerary

To help you plan your visit to Amsterdam, we created a map indicating all the places mentioned in our article.

As you can see below, each day has a different color, so you quickly get a good overview of how this itinerary is structured. We tried to group the sites in the most logical way so that you can walk between the sights as much as possible. When possible, we also take into account the best times to be at each place.

Good to know: Please note that the hours in our itinerary below are only indicated for your reference, to give you a better idea of how you could plan your time. A lot depends on your choices and how long you spend at each place.

Of course, you can easily adjust this itinerary and swap things around. So use this just as inspiration for what can be done and adjust it to your interests. When planning your time, keep in mind the opening times of the attractions, and be sure to check the availability of certain tickets or tours that we recommend before finalizing your sightseeing itinerary (and book them asap).

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

This is our recommended itinerary for 4 days in Amsterdam:

Central Station – Bike Tour (optional) – Canal Cruise – Damrak – Dam Square – Royal Palace (optional visit inside) – Begijnhof – Floating Flower Market – Cat Cabinet (optional) – 9 Streets – West Church – Anne Frank House .

DAY 1 planning info/ tickets to book :

• City bike tour (optional) – if interested, you could do this popular bike tour (more info below). Book in advance!
• Canal Cruise – we recommend this open-boat canal cruise starting from either Central Station or near Anne Frank House. In the colder season (or if you prefer a (semi) covered boat), take this classic canal cruise from the Central Station.
• Royal Palace (optional) – tickets .
• Anne Frank House – timed-entry tickets are available about 6 weeks in advance and you absolutely have to book asap.

Here is what your first day in Amsterdam could look like:

Amsterdam Central Station

Start your visit to Amsterdam at the Central Station . The impressive Neo-Gothic/Renaissance-style building dates from the end of the 19th century and looks more like a palace than a railway station. It was designed by P. Cuypers, the same architect who also built the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

In many ways, Central Station is the tourist hub of Amsterdam. If you are arriving by plane + train from the airport or by train from Brussels , Paris , or London , this will be your first introduction to the city.

Most of the main highlights are within walking distance from the station and all kinds of activities start in this area as well. As you will see below, we recommend kicking off your 4 days of sightseeing in Amsterdam with a bike tour of the main highlights (optional), followed by a canal cruise. Both of these start just near the station – see further.

City Bike Tour

10 AM – 1 PM.

If you are fit enough for a bike ride, I highly recommend starting your day with this popular bike tour of the main highlights in Amsterdam.

It’s a good way to see a lot in a short time, get your bearings, and you can later revisit some of the places that interest you the most on foot if you feel like it.

Some of the places mentioned in our itinerary below are also covered by this tour. But you will also see several nice areas that are located a bit further away (such as Vondelpark or De Pijp, etc.). It saves you a lot of walking and is a great introduction to Amsterdam!

Good to know: This bike tour starts close to the cruise ship terminal, about a 10-minute walk from the station, and it takes about 3 hours. There are usually several bike tours a day, the first one starting at 10 AM. If you do it, you’ll be back at the station area at around 1 PM.

TIP: You could have lunch at the historic 1st-class waiting rooms inside the station ( Grand Café Museum Restaurant 1e Klas ), grab a quick bite along the way (there are many options at the station), or skip lunch altogether and book a canal cruise with some food included – see below.

ALTERNATIVE: If you are not interested in a bike tour (or are worried about biking in an unfamiliar city), simply continue with the rest of the itinerary below. In that case, start with the canal cruise in the morning. You’ll then have more time to visit a few other places during the day. There are also various walking tours available if you want to visit some of the main highlights with a local guide.

Canal Cruise

2 – 3 PM.

Next, it’s time to explore Amsterdam’s impressive canal system. Amsterdam has 165 canals extending for over 75 kilometers (46 miles) and the official city site says it has 1,753 bridges. They call it the Venice of the North but there are more canals and bridges in Amsterdam than in Venice…

Taking a canal cruise is really a must-do in Amsterdam! You will see some of the oldest and most prestigious canals in the city with impressive 17th-century buildings, sail on the Amstel River and admire many impressive bridges and crooked traditional buildings.

Good to know: There are many options for canal cruises in Amsterdam. This is the most popular traditional cruise starting from the Central Station. In the warm season, we recommend a cruise on an open-air boat instead.

TIP: If you don’t want to waste time for lunch, you can also opt for this canal cruise with a cheese and wine option .

No matter which canal cruise you choose, for this itinerary, be sure to choose one that starts at the Central Station, and be sure that the time suits your itinerary too! For example, if you are doing a bike tour, you could probably book a cruise no earlier than 1.30-1.45 PM. If you are not doing any tour in the morning, you can take the cruise at around 10 AM or even earlier if available.

READ ALSO: Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Tips & Useful Info

Damrak is the main street leading from the railway station to the historic old town.

As you leave the station and start walking southward, on your left, you will see some of the most photographed crooked houses in Amsterdam .

Walking further, on the left side, you’ll find the impressive building of Beurs van Berlage , the historic Stock Exchange of Amsterdam. Nowadays, it’s an events venue.

On the opposite side of the street, check out the beautiful covered gallery called Beurspassage .

Dam Square & Royal Palace

Dam Square is the historic heart of Amsterdam. Here you will find the Royal Palace , Amsterdam’s old Stock Exchange building, the New Church , and some popular attractions like Madame Tussauds or Ripley’s Believe It Or Not !

This area is also popular for shopping with some of the biggest main-street brands represented.

Good to know: If you are here in the afternoon, simply look around the square and move on. However, if you are not planning to take a bike tour in the morning, you will have plenty of time to explore this part of the city.

In that case, we highly recommend visiting the Royal Palace ( see here for availability and tickets ).

Alternatively, Madame Tussauds is always fun with many Dutch celebrities represented, from the Royal Family to Anne Frank or Van Gogh.

Amsterdam Begijnhof

4 – 4.10 PM.

Next, visit Amsterdam Begijnhof (Beguinage). You will find this type of architectural complexes in several places in the Netherlands and Belgium. In the past, they were built for beguines , lay religious women who lived in a community without taking vows or retiring from the world. So a bit like a monastery, but not quite as extreme.

The Amsterdam Begijnhof is a real oasis in the busy city center. Nowadays, it’s a residential area, and because of that, they only open it to the public during the day (usually between 9.30 AM and 6 PM). It’s free to visit.

TIP: Note the black wooden house in the corner of the square in front of the chapel (#34). This is one of the two oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam.

4.15 – 4.25 PM. OPTIONAL

Just next to Begijnhof, you’ll pass a cozy square called Spui . On certain days of the week, there is an outdoor market here.

On Fridays, you can find a Book Market here. You’ll see all kinds of old books, posters, postcards, etc. On Sundays, there is an Art Market here, where you will find lots of local artists selling their works – paintings, photographs, sculptures, etc.

But even if there is no market, it’s worth passing by as there are some nice buildings on the square.

Kalverstraat, Heiligeweg & Munttoren

On the way to the Floating Flower Market, you could stop for some waffles or cookies on Kalverstraat/ Heiligeweg .

In this area, you’ll find some very popular places like van Wonderen Stroopwafels or Belicio Cheats cookie store (indicated on our map). However, these places are really touristy and it’s not uncommon to stand half an hour in a queue waiting for a super overpriced waffle. The cookies are actually better and there is usually no queue. If you like ‘Instagrammable’ food and it’s not too busy, you could stop for a few minutes here.

Just before you reach the Flower Market, you’ll see an old tower with carillon bells, Munttoren ( Mint Tower ) . The original 15th-century tower was part of Amsterdam’s old city walls and was heavily damaged during the Great Fire. The tower you see today has been rebuilt in the 17th. Nowadays, there is a Delft porcelain shop here.

It’s just a short photo stop.

Floating Flower Market

4.30 – 4.45 PM.

Next, head to the Floating Flower Market . It’s located just 5 minutes walk from the Begijnhof.

This is one of the most tourist-oriented places in the city where you can also find flowers, but for the main part, it’s actually all flower bulbs and Dutch souvenirs.

The market is indeed built a bit over the Singel Canal, but once you are there, you won’t really see that it ‘floats’. For that, check the views from the other side of the canal.

Good to know: The Flower Market is open daily except on Sundays, typically until 5.30 PM.

Cat Cabinet

If you are a cat lover, you may want to know that Amsterdam has a small museum dedicated to cats – the Cat Cabinet ( KattenKabinet ).

This is by no means a must-see in Amsterdam, but I was recently in the city with a friend who adores cats and the moment she heard me mention this museum, we just had to go see it. And she loved it! So if you are also a cat lover, you may want to check it out.

Inside, you can see all kinds of paintings, posters, and other artifacts with and about cats. They also have a Picasso drawing of a cat and a few other special pieces. And yes, there are also a couple of resident cats, but they are not always at home.

Good to know: Cat Cabinet is open daily except on Mondays until 5 PM. If you decide to visit and you are here in the late afternoon, come here first, before going to the Flower Market. You need about 20- 30 minutes for a quick visit here, so try to arrive at 4.30 PM at the latest. You can find more info and get tickets here . Normally, you should be able to just get a ticket on the spot as well.

Nine Streets

5 – 6 PM.

The 9 Streets ( De Negen Straatjes ) is a 6-block area of old streets in one of the nicest areas of Amsterdam’s Canal Belt (Grachtengordel). These narrow streets can be found between Leidsegracht and Raadhuisstraat (north-south) and Singel and Prinsengracht canals (east-west). (You can find it indicated on our map as well).

This area is known for specialty stores and quirky fashion boutiques, as well as vintage shopping. You will find a small bakery, the most popular fries in Amsterdam, and several cafes and restaurants here too.

Because most businesses are local and rather small, the 9 Streets area feels very authentic despite being extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s a very nice place to walk around, do some (window) shopping, or sit down for a drink and do some people-watching.

Anne Frank House

6 – 7 PM.

Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to the Jewish girl Anne Frank and her diary that she wrote while hiding here with her family during World War ll.

This is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam . So if you want to visit inside, you absolutely have to reserve your tickets as soon as they are released (typically 6 weeks in advance).

The good thing is that this museum is open quite late (normally until 10 PM), so if you are booking your tickets in advance, you should be able to easily find a timeslot that suits any Amsterdam itinerary.

Following this 4-day itinerary exactly as described here, you could come here at around 6-7 PM. But depending on the availability of the tickets, adjust your schedule as needed. Entry is timed and you need about 1 hour for a visit.

Good to know: The Anne Frank House has steep stairs and narrow passages, so keep this in mind if you have any mobility issues. There is no wheelchair access to the Secret Annex or the old part of the museum.

Also, pictures are not allowed inside the museum.

West Church & Anne Frank Monument

The West Church ( Westerkerk ) is located right next to Anne Frank House. In the past, it was possible to visit its tower – Westertoren – but it’s being renovated and it looks like it will still take quite a while (see their website for updates).

TIP: Next to the southern facade of the Church, you can find the Anne Frank Monument . It’s a small statue and easy to miss if you are not specifically looking for it.

Good to know: If you are interested in seeing the interior of the church, it’s usually only open between 11 AM and 3 PM. In that case – or if you want to climb the tower when it opens up again – you will have to adjust this itinerary.

You could come here right after visiting Damrak and Dam Square and then go to the other places later – it’s all really close to each other.

There are many restaurants in the area close to the Anne Frank House. We recommend crossing the Prinsengracht canal to the neighborhood called Jordaan. This is where you’ll find some really good restaurants and avoid tourist-oriented eateries in the center.

TIP: We had dinner at Pesca (it’s indicated on our map) and it was one of the best restaurants we went to in Amsterdam.

It’s a seafood restaurant with a very unique concept. You first have to choose your food at the ‘fish market’. You are then guided to the wine sommelier who helps you choose the wine based on your food choices. You are seated at the table and they bring all the dishes in random order and the intention is that you simply share all the dishes together. The service and the food are amazing and we found that it was much more affordable than it looked like at first sight.

If you want to be sure to have a table here, be sure to book in advance! This counts for many of the better restaurants in Amsterdam.

Van Gogh Museum – Vondelpark (optional) – Rijksmuseum – Albert Cuyp Market – Heineken Experience – Moco Museum (optional) – Leidseplein .

DAY 2 planning info/ tickets to book :

• Van Gogh Museum – timed entry tickets .
• Rijksmuseum – timed entry tickets .
• Heineken Experience (18+ only) – timed entry tickets . Alternative – Moco Museum .

The second day of this Amsterdam itinerary takes you to Amsterdam’s famous Museum Square (Museumplein). There are many museums here. The two must-sees are the Rijksmuseum and Van Hogh Museum, and you can easily visit them on the same day. You could also visit the Moco Museum if interested.

Good to know: All these museums are open daily (except for some exceptional events or public holidays).

If you don’t feel like visiting that many museums in a day, simply adjust this itinerary and visit one of the main museums (Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum) another day. We grouped all these museums together purely based on their location as this would be the most logical way to see them all without having to walk too much.

Here is what your second day in Amsterdam could look like:

Van Gogh Museum

9 – 11.30 AM .

We recommend starting with the Van Gogh Museum first thing in the morning. This museum is very popular but the spaces aren’t very big, so it gets very busy during the day. Since they work with timed entry slots, it’s not too bad in the morning.

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see in Amsterdam. After all, he is one of the best-known Dutch artists of all time.

This museum houses the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s art, with several hundreds of paintings and drawings. In addition, you can see fragments of his personal letters to his brother Theo. It’s a great place to really get to know Vincent Van Gogh and his art, beyond the most famous paintings.

Good to know: The Van Gogh Museum tickets are only available online and they always sell out. Furthermore, if you want to be able to choose the best time slot, you have to book well in advance. We recommend getting tickets for the earliest available time slot (usually 9 AM) and arriving at least 15 minutes before the museum opens.

TIP: For a small extra fee, you can get an audiovisual guide. It’s really worth it and makes your visit to the museum so much more rewarding.

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting Van Gogh Museum

Lunch + Vondelpark (optional)

11.30 AM – 1 PM.

You could have lunch at the Van Gogh Museum, at the Rijksmuseum, or at one of the cafes on the Museum Square.

TIP: You could also walk to the nearby Vondelpark , the main park in the center of Amsterdam. It’s nice to see, especially if the weather is good. And there is a cozy cafe where you could have some lunch.

However, if you do one of the bike tours mentioned on day 1 or day 4 of this itinerary, you will visit the park by bike (and save time and some walking on this day). Otherwise, it could be a nice addition to your itinerary.

Depending on what you decide to do for lunch, book your timed-entry ticket for the Rijksmuseum accordingly!

Good to know: We recommend just a very light lunch in between the two museum visits. There is a better place to eat that we mention a bit further in this itinerary – see the Albert Cuyp Market info further below. Since the market is not that far away from the museums, you could also go there for lunch. In that case, rearrange this itinerary. The distances aren’t huge so you could go there after visiting Van Gogh Museum and before going to Rijksmuseum.

Rijksmuseum

1 – 2.30 PM.

Rijksmuseum (or The Empire Museum) is the most important museum in Amsterdam. In terms of style and significance, you could compare it to the Louvre in Paris . However, it’s incomparable to the Louvre in size, and you can see the main highlights in just 1-1.5 hours.

Some of the must-sees here include ‘The Milkmaid’ by Johannes Vermeer and ‘The Night Watch’ by Rembrandt , along with yet another version of a self-portrait by Vincent Van Gogh .

Many of the most important artworks are displayed close to each other in the room called The Gallery of Honour . Don’t miss the Cuypers Library too. It’s very impressive! You can also visit the gardens of the museum – they are open to the public and are free to visit.

Good to know: Also for the Rijksmuseum, booking timed-entry tickets in advance is a must! Here too, you can get an audiovisual guide and listen to some background information about some of the main pieces of the museum.

Albert Cuyp Market

3 – 4 PM.

Albert Cuyp Street Market is an outdoor market located in De Pijp neighborhood, about 10 minutes walk from Rijksmuseum. Here you will find everything from clothing and souvenirs to Dutch cheeses, exotic fruit, and food from all over the world.

This bustling market is a great place to soak up a more local atmosphere in Amsterdam. This place is very popular with locals and tourists alike.

You can simply walk through the market or buy some souvenirs. But I highly recommend trying some Dutch specialties here as well. There is no better place in Amsterdam where you can find all the traditional foods in one place.

Good to know: The market is open daily from 9.30 AM to 5 PM, except on Sundays.

As already mentioned you could also come here for lunch, in between the two museum visits. In addition to all the market stalls and street food, there are several nice cafes and restaurants here as well.

Heineken Experience

4.30 – 6 PM.

You are probably familiar with the Heineken beer that can be found all over the world. The site of their original brewery in Amsterdam has been transformed into an interactive beer museum. Whether you are a fan of beer or not, it’s totally worth a visit (I don’t ever drink beer, but I absolutely loved the experience).

This is not a traditional museum – although you’ll start with the exhibits focused on the early days of the Heineken brand and the historic brewery. As you continue through the museum, you will learn more about the art of beer making, the ingredients, etc. The last part of the experience is much more contemporary with interactive exhibits and virtual reality experiences. And of course, you get to taste some cold beer.

Good to know: Heineken Experience doesn’t allow minors, so you have to be at least 18 in order to visit here. This experience is very popular, and most time slots sell out at least a few days in advance. So be sure to book timed entry tickets when planning your itinerary.

TIP: If you want to enjoy the views from their rooftop, you’ll need to get an additional ticket upon arrival (there are machines at the entrance). Buy it first before visiting the museum part, so that you are sure to be able to go up after your visit (they have limited numbers and the strangest rules about visiting hours/when you can purchase rooftop tickets).

Moco Museum

6 – 7 PM. OPTIONAL/ ALTERNATIVE

Moco Museum is located on the Museum Square, right next to Van Gogh- and Rijksmuseum. It could be a good alternative to Heineken Experience if you are traveling with minors, but you can also do both.

Featuring works of contemporary artists such as Banksy, Haring, Hirst, and many others, this is a very different museum experience from the others in Amsterdam. It makes art more accessible and will definitely appeal to kids and teenagers as well.

Good to know: Moco Museum is small so you don’t need that much time (also because it’s located so close to the others). Plus, it’s open late in the evening when all the other places are long closed, so it’s quite possible to add a quick visit here to your Amsterdam itinerary.

If you would like to see the untraditional works of some of the world’s most famous modern artists, Moco Museum is well worth it!

Also here, if you want to be sure to visit, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance . But depending on the season and the time of the day, walk-ins should be possible too.

Leidseplein & Dinner

In the evening, head over to Leidseplein (Leiden Square), just a short walk from Museum Square. This lively square has a very nice atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

Here, you can see the impressive building of the Internationaal Theater Amsterdam and one of the iconic Amsterdam hotels Hard Rock Hotel Amsterdam American (this area/hotel is also an excellent place to stay in!). Just nearby, there is a casino as well.

On the square, you can see The Bulldog Cafe and The Bulldog Palace. These iconic Amsterdam institutions are located in a beautiful historic building that used to house a police station.

You will find many other cafes and restaurants here too. In the warmer months, the entire square is lined with terraces and the nearby streets are filled with restaurants too. So the area around Leidseplein could be a very good place for a drink or even dinner.

You’ll need to reserve a table for dinner at the better restaurants, but many ‘simple’ places should be ok without advance reservations. Still, it pays to do some research because the choice is overwhelming and there is a lot of difference in prices and quality. If you want to be sure to dine at a specific place, be sure to reserve!

TIP: If you are nostalgic for American food, you’ll find Hard Rock Café nearby. For excellent Asian fusion food, try Momo Bar & Lounge located inside the Park Centraal Hotel . We recently stayed at this hotel and it became one of our absolute favorites in Amsterdam.

Dutch countryside tour – A’DAM Tower – Eastern Docks and/or NEMO Science Museum (optional) – Red Light District.

DAY 3 planning info/ tickets to book :

• Dutch countryside tour – there are many options for various durations and group sizes. We did this highly-rated tour because it starts very early (our tour started at 8.15 AM). Not only do you visit the most popular places without big crowds, but you still have plenty of time to explore more of the city in the late afternoon (we were back in Amsterdam before 3 PM).
• NEMO Science Museum (optional) – timed-entry tickets .
• Red Light District tour – there are several options . We took this popular tour and I can highly recommend it.

This is what your third day in Amsterdam could look like:

Countryside Tour: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, Marken

8 – 3 PM.

If you want to take a break from all the landmarks and museums in the city, you could escape to the countryside for a couple of hours. There are countless options as to where to go and what to see (a lot also depends on the season).

On this 4-day trip to Amsterdam, we opted for this guided tour to some of the nicest little towns and windmills near Amsterdam. We visited Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken . It’s a very short visit where you basically just spend about an hour in each place. But it gives you a different perspective of the Netherlands, beyond the capital city, and we found it well worth it.

We opted for this tour because a tour like this is the only way to see all these amazing sites in such a short time. Plus, the proximity of these places to the city and the early departure time meant that we still had the whole afternoon to spend in Amsterdam upon return.

As mentioned, there are many alternatives for a (half) day excursion to the countryside near Amsterdam (both – with guided tours or simply going on your own by train or by bus). You can find some inspiration in our guide below.

READ ALSO: Best Places in the Countryside Near Amsterdam

A’DAM Lookout

3 – 3.45 PM.

Upon return to the city, you could easily visit A’DAM Tower, across the IJ River from the Central Station. For us, it was extremely easy to do since the tour ended in this part of town. So it was literally 3 minutes walk from the bus.

If you are coming back to the Central Station after your excursion, you can just hop on the passenger ferry that runs every couple of minutes between the station and the northern part of town. I indicated the location of this ferry on our map. The ferry ride takes just a minute or two and is free of charge.

A’DAM Tower is a project with different parts of the building used for various purposes such as a hotel, a music venue, etc. The main reason to come here is the A’DAM Lookout – the Rooftop experience.

There are several things that you can do here. First, enjoy the stunning 360° views of Amsterdam. Since the city is completely flat, you can see really far from here. Second, they have a rooftop swing where you literally hang with your feet over the edge of the tower. In addition, you can take a picture with giant A’DAM letters, and watch a short film about the history of the city and this tower.

There is also a rooftop bar – one inside, with panoramic views overlooking the city, and the other one outside, at the very top. It’s a nice place to sit down for a drink, rest your legs a bit, and enjoy the views.

Good to know: There is a fee to visit A’DAM Lookout and you can simply get the tickets on the spot. If you would like to come to the rooftop bar in the evening, it’s best to reserve a table since it tends to get very busy.

After your visit here, take the ferry back to the city center.

Eastern Docks Island & NEMO Science Museum (optional)

4 – 5.30 PM. OPTIONAL

NEMO Science Museum is one of the best Amsterdam museums for families with children. It’s an interactive hands-on museum with a focus on science and technology.

This is one of those museums where you can play and experiment with the exhibits, and kids will love it. So if you are visiting Amsterdam with kids or teens, check it out!

Good to know: Also here, if you want to be sure to visit the museum, you should book timed-entry tickets in advance.

TIP: Without kids, it’s still worth coming here to see the ship-shaped building and visit its rooftop terrace (accessible without a ticket).

In addition, as you walk to the NEMO Museum from the station, you’ll pass a nice modern part of town called Oosterdokseiland (Eastern Docks Island) . When the weather is nice, you’ll see locals sitting by the water enjoying a drink or a snack and watching the ships go by. It’s nice to come here either way – even if you are not visiting NEMO.

China Town & Nieuwmarkt

5.30 – 6 PM.

As you cross the canals and get back to the old town, check out the area between the Saint Nicholas Basilica and the Nieuwmarkt. The Red Light District is located here (more about it below), but there is more to see here.

To start with, you could check out the Basilica (from the outside if it’s closed). Next, head to Zeedijk, a narrow old street where you can see one of the two oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam (the other one is located inside the Begijnhof, mentioned on day 1 of this itinerary). As you walk further, you will pass Amsterdam’s China Town . It’s a very small area, with lots of (Asian) restaurants.

Finally, you’ll reach Nieuwmarkt Square. Here, you can’t really miss De Waag , a castle-like building that served as one of the city gates in the past. Nowadays, there is a restaurant inside.

On the same square, you will also find an outdoor market. Depending on the hour and the day, you’ll find different stalls here – from Farmer’s Market on Saturdays to antiques and flee market on Sundays in the summer, to a daily market selling a bit of everything… The market usually starts to close at around this time, so you may be able to appreciate the architecture around you a bit better.

Good to know: If you take the Red Light District walking tour that we did (see below), you will pass these places (and many more) with the tour guide as well.

Red Light District

6 – 8 PM (you’ll need much less time if you are not visiting any of the places inside or taking a tour).

End your day at the famous Red Light District in the heart of Amsterdam. This is one of the oldest parts of the city, also known as “De Wallen” with narrow streets and canals.

But most tourists mainly know this area for its nightlife, infamous coffeeshops, and legalized prostitution with distinctive red-lit windows where sex workers display themselves.

Prostitution is regulated in the Netherlands, and this district provides a safe and controlled environment for it. This is just one of the many Red Light Districts in Benelux, but it’s definitely the most famous one.

Nowadays, more and more women working here are moving away to the quieter side streets, and the area has more coffeeshops, stores, and unique museums. The Red Light Secrets Museum is the best one if you want to visit one museum in this area.

Good to know: The area is at its busiest at night and especially during weekends. Depending on when you visit, you’ll have a totally different experience.

TIP: If you are interested to know a bit more about this unique historic part of Amsterdam, consider visiting with a local guide. We recently took this highly-rated walking tour of the Red Light District and found it really educational and fun. Recommended.

The Red Light District is located just next to Amsterdam’s China Town, so you’ll find tons of good Asian restaurants nearby.

For a simple meal, head to a Thai restaurant called Bird . This restaurant was recommended to us by our Red Light District tour guide and it didn’t disappoint.

If you are looking for something a bit more special (and quite a bit more expensive), check out A-Fusion . This restaurant should definitely be reserved! We dined here on another occasion and the food was amazing!

Excursion outside the city or bike tour off the beaten path – Lunch in Jordaan – Rembrandt House Museum – Jewish Neighborhood – Life of Anne Frank Walking Tour.

DAY 4 planning info/ tickets to book :

• Excursion outside the city or bike tour (optional) – see below.
• Rembrandt House Museum – timed-entry tickets .
• Jewish Museum & Portuguese Synagogue (optional) – tickets .
• Anne Frank Walking Tour – we took this amazing tour and truly enjoyed it.

There are so many ways how you could spend the fourth day in Amsterdam! So much depends on your interests and preferences. Below are some recommendations based on what we did on various trips.

Here is what day 4 in Amsterdam could look like:

Excursion Outside the City (optional)

In the morning, you could take another (half) day tour and explore some of the nicest places outside Amsterdam. Here are some recommendations:

• If traveling in the early spring, you could visit the Lisse Tulip Fields and Keukenhof Gardens . The easiest way to do that is by booking a bus transfer that includes the garden tickets . You’ll need about 5-6 hours for this and we recommend going as early in the morning as possible.
• If you want to see a smaller Dutch town without having to go far from Amsterdam, you could visit Haarlem . It’s less than 20 minutes from Amsterdam by train and you can easily see most of the main highlights in 3-4 hours. For a more special experience (and a slightly longer visit), Delft could be a great option, but it’s a bit further away (1 hour by train).
• If you don’t care about spending more time in the city, you could also consider visiting Giethoorn . This is one of the most picturesque villages in the Netherlands with canals instead of streets. You’ll need to book a tour to get there without a car, and you should count 8-10 hours for a visit.

Alternatively, stay in the city – there are so many more amazing places to see and things to do on day 4 in Amsterdam! See below for our recommendations.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

Bike Tour off the Beaten Path

+- 9.30 AM – 2 PM. OPTIONAL/ALTERNATIVE

If you rather explore the city of Amsterdam a bit more, you could consider this bike tour that takes you a bit more off the beaten path in Amsterdam. Some places covered are the same as the bike tour mentioned on day 1 of this itinerary, however. We recently did this tour and it was really nice to see some lesser visited places in Amsterdam that most tourists never get to.

However, if you take a bike tour on day 1 of this itinerary, it’s probably going to be very similar.

Alternatively, take a look at this amazing bike tour that takes you just a bit outside the city . On this tour, you explore picturesque villages and waterways of the Waterland district north of Amsterdam. This is an excellent option if you want to get a feeling of real Holland, beyond the busiest tourist attractions.

TIP: If you do any bike tours in Amsterdam, I recommend doing it in the morning. It will be much less busy on the roads in the morning than in the afternoon.

Lunch in the Jordaan Neighborhood

Depending on what you choose to do in the morning, you could have lunch in the Jordaan neighborhood. Both bike tours mentioned above start and end very close to this area.

For some of the best apple pie in Amsterdam, head to Cafe Winkel 43 or Café Papeneiland. I’m sure there are many other places that have delicious apple pie too. It seems to be the locals’ favorite.

TIP: Alternatively, if you are not taking any tours in the morning, consider this highly-rated food tour of the Jordaan neighborhood . They usually have several starting times around lunch, depending on the season.

The nice thing about this tour is that you visit one of the most authentic areas in central Amsterdam with a local guide. Plus, you get to know the city through its food.

Rembrandt House Museum

In the afternoon, we highly recommend visiting the Rembrandt House Museum. Located in the very house where the famous 17th-century painter lived at the peak of his career.

The house is beautifully restored and the museum is really well done. Plus, you get an audiovisual guide which makes a visit so much more interesting. You can see the rooms where the family lived, all kinds of objects collected by Rembrandt, and the studios where he worked. In addition, you can also admire many original paintings by the master himself.

This museum is one of my personal favorites. It’s small and immersive and you leave here with a much better appreciation and understanding of Rembrandt’s life and work. Since you only need max. 1 hour for a visit and the museum is located close to the other attractions that we recommend visiting later on this day, it’s really simple to add it to your Amsterdam itinerary.

Good to know: The museum is set in the original house and is therefore not very big, so if you want to be sure to visit, book your timed-entry tickets in advance.

Jewish Cultural Quarter

4 – 5 PM.

Just a short walk from the Rembrandt Museum, you’ll reach a neighborhood where many Jews lived before WWII. There are several landmarks and places of interest in this part of Amsterdam, so you can decide which ones you want to see based on your interests. Here are some recommendations:

• National Holocaust Names Monument . This unique monument can be found in a small garden near Hermitage Amsterdam. It contains the names of 102,000 holocaust victims who never got a grave. It’s free to enter and you can visit in just a few minutes.
• Hortus Botanicus. If you are looking for a green space to escape the busy city, you can visit Amsterdam’s Botanical Garden. It’s really tranquil and rather small, but also very picturesque. Count 20-30 minutes for a visit.
• Jewish Museum + Portuguese Synagogue . This museum has two main parts that you can visit, located just across the street from each other (and included in the same ticket ). The main museum also has a fun section for children. You’ll need at least an hour for the museum and the Synagogue, so if you decide to visit here, skip some other places and adjust the itinerary accordingly.

The Life of Anne Frank Walking Tour

5 – 7 PM.

You could end the last day in Amsterdam with this amazing walking tour dedicated to the Life of Anne Frank and the history of the Jews of Amsterdam. We did quite a lot of tours in Amsterdam and I have to say that this one was absolutely brilliant.

The tour starts at the Jewish Museum, visits various landmarks (but not the National Holocaust Names Monument mentioned earlier), and ends at the Anne Frank House. It doesn’t include a visit inside any of the museums, however.

The starting and the ending locations are the main reason why we recommend doing this tour in this part of the itinerary. It’s the most logical way to do it. However, you could easily plan it for another day. It’s also perfectly possible to combine this tour with a visit to Anne Frank House (see day 1 of this itinerary for more information about the museum visit). Just make sure that the timing works out when booking tickets/tours!

If you do the Life of Anne Frank walking tour mentioned above, it will end at the Anne Frank monument next to West Church. This is the same area where you ended your first day of this itinerary.

Once again, cross the canal westwards and head to the Jordaan neighborhood for dinner. There are so many nice restaurants here.

We had dinner at Cannibale Royale . Alternatively, check out Salmuera , just nearby. For more traditional Dutch food, you may want to try Café Restaurant De Reiger .

We indicated all these restaurants on our map. Whatever you choose, it’s best to reserve a table in advance!

Where to Stay for 4 Days in Amsterdam

There are so many amazing hotels in central Amsterdam that the choice can be overwhelming! Plus, the prices can be really high especially if you are booking just a few months before your trip.

For this itinerary, you could stay anywhere in the historic center or just a bit outside of it close to the Central Station . When choosing a location consider a few things. If you are taking at least a couple of tours outside the city and also one of the bike tours in the morning, then you may want to stay really close to the station – that way, you can just quickly walk everywhere you need to be. It’s also easy for arrival and departure.

Whereas if you are not doing that many day trips (or don’t mind taking a 10-minute tram ride once in a while), then you can also stay in the more ‘chic’ part of town, closer to the Museum Square or in the heart of the nicest part of the Canal Belt (around the 9 Streets). This area is not necessarily more expensive – it really depends on the availability when you book.

The most expensive is the area right in the middle between the two – around Dam Square and the 9 Streets. It’s also the most convenient area for anything you want to do in Amsterdam.

Our experience: On this 4-day Amsterdam trip, we stayed at Park Centraal Amsterdam , just next to all the museums. I couldn’t fault the hotel – we absolutely loved it! The location was great for all the sightseeing in the city too.

On another occasion, we stayed at Hotel Mai , in Chinatown, just 5 minutes walk from the station. We had a superior canal-view room and it was amazing. The location was excellent for all the day trips and tours.

Hotel Estheréa is right in the center between these two locations and is the perfect choice if you can’t decide on the area. It’s as central for everything as it gets.

On a lower budget , ClinkNOORD Hostel is one of the absolute top choices price/quality-wise. It’s located in Amsterdam North across the IJ River, but can easily be reached from the Central Station by the free passenger ferry in just a couple of minutes.

READ ALSO: Best Areas to Stay in Amsterdam for First Visit

So, this sums up our recommended itinerary for 4 days in Amsterdam.

I hope that this very detailed guide will give you a better idea of what can be done in Amsterdam in about four days. Of course, you can also skip the places that don’t interest you that much and take it easier leaving more time to relax and explore deeper.

So use this itinerary as it is or adjust it to your interests and plan your own perfect trip!

TIP: Be sure to also take a look at our first-timer’s guide to visiting Amsterdam . It contains lots of useful information and tips for your trip. Check it out!

More travel inspiration for Amsterdam & beyond:

• Best places to see in Amsterdam (all the top sights)
• Amsterdam canal cruise (experience-based tips)
• Top museums in Amsterdam
• 1 day in Amsterdam
• 2 days in Amsterdam
• 3 days in Amsterdam
• What It’s Like to Visit Amsterdam in June
• What It’s Like to Visit Amsterdam in December
• Amsterdam at Christmas
• Best day trips from Amsterdam
• Kinderdijk Windmills
• Alkmaar Cheese Market
• Best tulip fields near Amsterdam
• Keukenhof Gardens
• Best of Brussels
• Best of Bruges
• Best of Antwerp

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Barbara White

Thursday 24th of August 2023

About how much would you suggest this all would cost (recognizing everyone is different in terms of how much to spend on food!). Writing from Canada where the current conversion is about 1.5 with our dollar. Trying to organize short trips from my 'bucket' list given a recent terminal diagnosis. Walk with a cane so likely just looking to see the city, some museums and offbeat things (the book and art marts sound lovely) - I have an off week so to speak from treatments and started to create a list and see what's possible :)

And, thanks for this lovely information!

Friday 25th of August 2023

@Jurga, thank you! your estimate on daily cost was in my ballpark! Thank you so very much.

Hi Barbara, it's really impossible for us to give you any estimate of a trip cost. It depends on so many factors, such as when you travel, how long in advance you book, what deals you can get for the flights, which hotels you choose, etc. The biggest cost of a trip to Amsterdam (apart from getting there) is accommodation. Check Booking.com for your travel dates to get a better idea of how much you'd need. The prices of all experiences/tickets can also be found online. As a minimum, you'll likely need about 200-250 euro per day in Amsterdam (hotel, food, activities), if staying in a rather simple accommodation (and not sharing the room cost with anyone), visiting a few museums, and dining/lunching at decent but not too fancy restaurants. If you opt for a nicer hotel, you'll likely need that much for the hotel alone. If you opt for the cheapest hostel or stay outside the city center and eat in very simple places, you could do it for much less. You can make any trip as expensive or as cheap as you like, so it all depends on your choices. Hope this helps.

Monday 26th of June 2023

Excellent information. Thank you

Glad to help, Kiran. Happy travels!

Dennis Romano

Sunday 25th of June 2023

Jurga, Another excellent guide. We spent two days there after a Viking Rhine cruise last July and loved the city. We had been there before, but it was in 1973; we would like to go back. Viking had us stay in the beautiful Hotel Okura, not in the city center, but reasonably close, especially with the trams. We had one of the best Chinese dinners we've ever had nearby at Oceania.

We got back 3 days ago from a month-long road trip around the Italian lakes and Tuscany and are ready to go back to Italy. We used some of your resources on our trip. Thanks!

Thanks for sharing your experience and for your kind feedback regarding our travel guides, Dennis. It's always great to hear from our loyal readers!

Amsterdam's Public Transportation

Essential Dutch Phrases

One Week in the Netherlands

48 Hours in Amsterdam

Getaways From Amsterdam

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands

Castles to Visit in the Netherlands

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Things to Do With Kids in Amsterdam

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Top Markets

Live Music in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Must-Visit Museums

Guide to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens

Must-Try Food in the Netherlands

Craft Beer in the Netherlands

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Amsterdam

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in the Netherlands

Getting Around the Netherlands

Cities to Visit

Complete Guide to Amsterdam

How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Amsterdam

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

With its 17th century Renaissance architecture and stunning network of canals, the city of Amsterdam has Old World appeal mixed with parks, museums, restaurants, and other activities that make it a thoroughly modern city. Yes, the city's Red Light District and coffeeshop culture both are magnets for boisterous crowds, but from street markets and stroopwafels to bicycle tours, breweries, and canal tours, there are plenty of tamer activities to enjoy in this capital of the Netherlands.

Read on for when to visit, things to do, where to eat and drink, where to stay, getting there, and tips for saving money on your next visit to Amsterdam.

Planning Your Trip to Amsterdam

• Best time to visit: The most popular tourist season in Amsterdam is from April through September, when the temperatures are mild, flowers are in full bloom, and days are long, making it easier to take advantage of the city's daytime activities and vibrant nightlife on foot or by bike. But don't discount other times of the year. During the holidays, elaborate light displays on homes, businesses, and the city's canals make it a winter wonderland, while in late fall and early spring, streets and main attractions are less crowded and hotels and airfare are less expensive. For more about the weather in Amsterdam, read our seasonal guide to the city .
• Getting Around: The historic parts of Amsterdam are compact and easily walkable. The city also has an extensive public transportation network consisting of trams, ferries, buses, and metros, which all use the same public transport chip card  ( OV-chipkaart ). Bicycles, residents' transit of choice, are also available for rent at several outfitters throughout the city.
• Travel Tips: Because of its location on the North Sea, Amsterdam is notorious for its frequent rain showers and temperature shifts, so come prepared with closed-toed, water-resistant shoes and a waterproof jacket, hat, or umbrella (or all of the above!). Note that currently, citizens of the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa if visiting for three months or less as long as they have a valid passport.

Things to Do

From museums and historical sites like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House to parks, street markets, canal and bicycle tours, and the rich culinary history of its multicultural residents, Amsterdam has a variety of activities to occupy visitors.

While the city has dozens of attractions, here are the can't miss ones:

• Take an evening canal cruise . Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 2010, the city's network of 165 canals provide a unique vantage point for viewing Amsterdam's most notable architecture, from the historic homes that ring the most central canals to the modern buildings along the Amstel River. From November through January, the city presents the annual Amsterdam Light Festival, with dozens of art installations from renowned Dutch and international artists in and along the water.
• Tour the Anne Frank House . See the secret annex where Anne Frank, her family, and four others hid during World World II as well as entries from her famous diary and other moving remnants of the impact of her short life and the horrors of Nazi occupation in this museum on Prinsengracht. Note that entry is ticketed and must be secured a few months in advance, so plan ahead.
• View the work of the Dutch masters at the Rijksmuseum . With works from Vermeer to Van Gogh to Rembrandt, this museum houses the largest collection of Dutch and Flemish art in the country. Follow your visit with a picnic on the Museumplein or stops at the adjacent Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum of contemporary art, or the Concertgebouw, the city's performing arts hall.

Explore more of the city's best with our articles on Amsterdam's top attractions , how to spend 48 hours in Amsterdam , and 50 More Things to Do in Amsterdam .

What to Eat and Drink

From traditional local dishes like stroopwafels, raw herring, and pancakes to international imports like Indonesian Rijsttafel ("rice table," or a meal with several small plates), Indian, and more, Amsterdam's food scene is varied and offers something for every taste.

To sample the best of the city, visit De Foodhallen , which has over 20 food stalls offering everything from Dutch bitterballen (deep-fried beef smothered in breadcrumbs) and hot dogs with sauerkraut to Spanish pintxos, Vietnamese banh mi, and Indian street food. Don't miss the spot's gin and tonic bar, or sip on the unofficial city drink at Razmataz, which offers 50 different variations on the classic. To learn about gin's predecessor and the native spirit of the Netherlands, genever, visit the House of Bols distillery and museum.

Visit one of the 250-plus food stalls at Albert Cuyp Market in the De Pijp neighborhood, for stroopwafel, fresh herring, produce, flowers, and other goods, then stop into nearby Glou Glou for natural wines and snacks like cheese, bread, and more. For rijsttafel, try Blauw Indonesian south of Vondelpark or Sampurna on the Singel canal in Jordaan. Beer lovers will want to tour the Heineken Experience or visit Brouwerij 't IJ , an organic brewery located next to a working windmill.

For more on the city's food, read about its authentic Mexican restaurants , where to find Asian restaurants , and where to spend 24 delicious hours in Amsterdam .

Where to Stay

Amsterdam has a variety of accommodations, from five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The most convenient and expensive options are in the inner canal belt, which is bordered by Amsterdam Centraal to the north and the Museum District to the south. Options range from luxury boutique hotels like the Kimpton DeWitt, Canal House, and the Pulitzer Amsterdam to standard chains like the Hyatt Regency, the Marriott, and the Hilton. For more affordable hotels, Oud Zuid (Amsterdam South) as well as De Wallen (Red Light District) in the east offer hostels, Air BNBs, and reliable brands like Hilton and Marriott.

To help you narrow down your choices, we've rounded up the top hotels in Amsterdam .

Getting There

Over 108 airlines fly to and from over 300 destinations worldwide to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, which is Europe's third busiest by passenger volume, a KILM hub, and located about 11 miles (19 kilometers) southwest of the city. Amsterdam Centraal train station is about a 15-20 minute ride from the airport. A one-way fare is 5.50 euros, which includes a 1 euro surcharge for a disposable ticket. Fares for the seven-minute ride to Amsterdam Zuid (south part of the city) are 3.80 euros, and from there, you can connect via the city's metro system to other parts of town.

Taxis are also readily available at the airport, with fares into the city center averaging between 45-50 euros, as are rideshares like Uber.

Amsterdam is also a short train ride from other points in Europe, like Paris (3:18 via Thalys), London (3:55 via Eurostar), and Cologne (2:38 via ICE international railways).

Culture & Customs

• Bicycles are a huge part of Amsterdam's culture and often outnumber cars. Avoid standing or walking in designated bike lanes.
• Restaurant service is different than in the United States. As is common in Europe, service is slower, and you will often have to flag down wait staff to place an order or ask for a check.
• Tipping is optional at restaurants, as service is built into prices, but if you want to leave extra, rounding up to the nearest Euro or up to 10 percent of the total bill is appreciated.
• There is a difference between a "coffeeshop" and a coffee shop or café. A coffeeshop (no space) is a place that sells marijuana and related products, while a coffee shop or café is where one sips coffee.
• Photos are forbidden in the Red Light District to protect the identities of the workers.

Money-Saving Tips

• Purchase an I amsterdam City Card . Available for 24 (50 euros), 48 (80 euros), and 72 (93 euros) hour periods, the card includes a city map, free canal cruise, and free access to top museums like Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum.
• Pack a picnic for a park. From the 120-acre Vondelpark in Amsterdam-Zuid to Oosterpark, the city's first planned park, Amsterdam offers ample green spaces perfect for a picnic. Shop at nearby markets and food stalls to save money on expensive sit-down meals.
• Take advantage of the Last Minute Ticket Shop , which offers same-day, deep discounts to local theatre productions, comedy shows, and concerts starting at 10 a.m.
• Walk, bike, or utilize public transportation. Taxis and rideshares can be expensive, so explore the city on foot, via its extensive public transportation network, or as the locals do: by bike.
• Purchase an unlimited one, two, three, or seven-day tram pass, starting at 2.50 euros for children and 7.50 euros for adults for a single day of rides.
• Book a hotel or hostel outside of the city center. De Pijp, Plantagebuurt, and Haarlem are all neighborhoods that offer high quality, but less expensive accommodations and easy access to public transportation.

For more additional money-saving tips, read our guide for visiting Amsterdam on a budget .

How to Travel from Amsterdam Airport to City Center by Train, Taxi, Bus, and Shuttle

Reasons Why You Should Visit Amsterdam

I amsterdam Visitor Discount Card

Your Trip to the Netherlands: The Complete Guide

The 10 Best Museums in Amsterdam

Best Places to Honeymoon in March and April

A Travel Guide for How to Visit Amsterdam on a Budget

Top 10 Things to Do in Amsterdam

The 18 Best Things to Do in the Netherlands

How to Travel From Eindhoven Airport to Amsterdam by Train, Bus, and Car

The 9 Best Things to Do in Dam Square, Amsterdam

How to Travel From Amsterdam to Charleroi Airport by Train, Bus, and Car

Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Spend One Week in the Netherlands

October in Amsterdam: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

My Suggested 3-5 Day Itinerary for Visiting Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in the world . I love its beautiful brick buildings, majestic canals, open skyline, rich history, and relaxed, easy-going attitude toward life.

Over the years, I’ve visited Amsterdam more times than I can count and have spent countless hours walking the city, making friends with locals (I briefly lived here years ago), and getting under its skin.

The city was founded in the 12th century but came into prominence during the Dutch Golden Age (1588-1672). At that time, Amsterdam was the center of the world economy and was both an economic and cultural powerhouse.

Today, Amsterdam is one of the most popular places in the world to visit (try to avoid the summer when the crowds are a little too much). There are so many things to do in Amsterdam that it deserves more than just the few days most travelers give it.

How should you spend your time in this world-class city?

With so much to see and do, I put together what I think is the perfect Amsterdam itinerary for you. This itinerary can help you get acquainted with this cosmopolitan city, covering the main sights while also taking you off the beaten path to show you the real Amsterdam.

Table of Contents

Day 1 : Canal Tour, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, & more

Day 2 : Anne Frank House, Jordaan, Amsterdam History Museum, & more

Day 3 : Jewish Historical Museum, FOAM, Oosterpark, & more

Day 4 : Museum Amstelkring, Rembrandt House Museum, Museum Van Loon, & more

Day 5 : Waterlooplein Flea Market, Hash, Marihuana Museum, & more!

Day Trips from Amsterdam : Haarlem, Noord, and Windmills

Where to Stay in Amsterdam : Centraal and De Pijp

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 1

Amsterdam has two really good free walking tours:

• Free Walking Tours Amsterdam

Both tours give you a general historical overview of the city and its landmarks. Be sure to tip your guide at the end though!

For more tours (walking tours, museum tours, food tours), check out my list of the best walking tours in Amsterdam as well as Get Your Guide . I use them a lot to find activities in destinations I visit.

If you don’t want to do a private tour, expect to pay around 20-25 EUR for a small-boat canal tour with Flagship Amsterdam .

Explore the Van Gogh Museum This may be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, but don’t let the crowds deter you. The museum features many of Van Gogh’s best works of art alongside an excellent biography of his life. I can spend hours just staring at the paintings as Van Gogh is one of my favorite painters. The museum also has paintings by other famous artists of the period, like Monet, Manet, and Matisse.

Try to come late in the late afternoon when the crowds subside. You can choose your entry time when you book skip-the-line tickets and avoid the long line to get in.

Museumplein 6, +31 20 570 5200, vangoghmuseum.nl. Open daily 9am-6pm in the summer with reduced hours in the spring, fall, and winter. Admission is 22 EUR.

Visit the Rijksmuseum The Rijksmuseum is located right next to the Van Gogh Museum, and after years of renovation, it’s now beautifully remodeled. The museum still features an extensive Rembrandt collection, and you can see his famous “The Night Watch” painting here. Besides Rembrandt, there’s also an incredible and robust collection of other classic Dutch painters, like Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer. Over 1 million works of art, craftworks, and historical objects are kept in the collection, and around 8,000 objects are on display in the museum so be sure to budget a few hours!

You can get skip-the-line tickets here or book a joint canal tour and museum ticket for just a few more euros.

Museumstraat 1, +31 20 674 7000, rijksmuseum.nl. Open daily 9am–5pm. Admission is 22.50 EUR.  

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 2

Tour Anne Frank House This is where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. It showcases her childhood, life in the attic, as well as other information about the Holocaust. There’s also a display of her real handwritten diary.

While it’s a sad and moving place, in all honesty though, I didn’t like it. I found it to be anticlimactic. You basically do a rushed walk through the house as the crowds pack the place. You don’t get to let everything soak in as you’re being pushed from behind by the endless crowds. It’s maddening!

Personally, I think the Jewish History Museum does a more thorough job of relating the events in Anne Frank’s life to the Holocaust. However, if you don’t mind waiting in line and are curious about Anne, it’s worth the wait. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance or you’ll be stuck waiting in line.

Prinsengracht 263–267, +31 20 556 71 05, annefrank.org. Open daily 9am-10pm. Admission is 16 EUR. Tickets are only sold online via the official Anne Frank House website .

For a more intimate and guided look at Anne Frank’s world in context, this expert-led guided walking tour through the Jewish Quarter covers the life of Anne Frank and the Dutch Resistance during World War II. It’s a really good tour to take!

Wander Jordaan This heavily residential area is an old working-class neighborhood turned hip. It’s probably the most overlooked part of Amsterdam. Although it’s right near the city center, hardly any tourists enter this maze of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s peaceful and a great place to wander while avoiding the mass of tourists crowding the main streets just a few blocks away. While in the area, be sure to eat at Moeders (traditional Dutch food) and Winkel 43 (get the apple pie).

Visit the Tulip Museum Located in a room inside a tulip shop, this little basement museum does a wonderful job of telling the history of tulips in Holland and the infamous tulip craze that rocked the Dutch economy. It’s one of the best off-the-beaten-path attractions in Amsterdam . It’s never crowded, and it’s only 5 EUR!

Prinsengracht 116, +31 20 421 0095, amsterdamtulipmuseum.com. Open daily 10am-6pm. Admission is 5 EUR.

Bellamyplein 51 or Hannie Dankbaarpassage 47 [both entrances work], foodhallen.nl. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-11:30pm (Fridays and Saturdays until 1am). Kitchens close two hours before the food hall’s closing time.

See the Amsterdam History Museum This museum features a very thorough history of Amsterdam. It’s big, so you’ll need 3–4 hours to really go through it in detail. There are a lot of relics, maps, paintings, and audiovisual displays throughout the museum. My favorite is the computer graphic at the entrance showing the growth and construction of the city over time. I can’t recommend this museum enough. It’s one of the best history museums I’ve ever visited.

Kalverstraat 92, +31 20 523 1822, amsterdammuseum.nl. Open daily 10am–5pm. Admission is 18 EUR.

For a more educational look, The Prostitute Information Center, or PIC, offers tours of the neighborhood where a current or former sex worker explains the practices of the trade. The center started in the early 1990s and aims to dispel some myths and misconceptions about sex work, in general, and in Amsterdam, in particular.

Enge Kerksteeg 3. +31 20 420 7328. pic-amsterdam.com. Tours run Wednesday-Saturday at 5pm. Tickets are 25 EUR.

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 3

Mike’s Bike Tours is the best company to use, whether for a tour or to rent a bike on your own. A 2.5-hour city tour costs 34.50 EUR.

Keizersgracht 609, +31 20 551 6500, foam.org. Open daily 10am–6pm (9pm on Thursdays and Fridays). Admission is 16 EUR.

Tour the Jewish Historical Museum Often overlooked in favor of The Anne Frank House, the Jewish Historical Museum tells the history of the Jews’ prominent and influential position in Amsterdam. The exhibit on World War II does a great job of highlighting Dutch complacency, resistance, and guilt over the Holocaust. With 11,000 items, artifacts, and works of art, it’s the only Jewish history museum in the country. Personally, I think the museum does a better job when it comes to highlighting the history and struggles of Jews in the Netherlands than the Anne Frank House does.

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, +31 20 531 0310, jck.nl. Open daily 10am–5pm. Admission is 20 EUR.

Relax in Oosterpark Everyone goes to Vondelpark to lounge around, bike, or get high, but east of the main city center is a beautiful park with fewer people that is just as relaxing. Oosterpark is about a 30-minute walk from the city center, but the walk takes you through residential areas of the city not often seen and way off the tourist map. I enjoy coming here because it’s far quieter and more peaceful than Vondelpark. There are sculptures (such as the National Slavery Monument that commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1863), playgrounds, ponds, and plenty of space to picnic or lounge. If you want a quiet park experience, this is it!  

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 4

Visit the Rembrandt House Museum Dutch painter Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn is generally considered to be one of the most prolific, most talented artists in history. He lived and worked in this house between 1639 and 1658 during the Dutch Golden Age. Visitors can explore the home to get a sense of how he worked and lived (they’ve recreated how it was decorated during Rembrandt’s time). I wasn’t too impressed (I’d rather spend time admiring his paintings), but Rembrandt enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook it.

Jodenbreestraat 4, +31 20 520 0400, rembrandthuis.nl. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am–6pm. Admission is 19.50 EUR.

Visit Noord – Leave the city center, take the ferry across the IJ, and visit the up-and-coming area of Noord Amsterdam. In the last few years, a lot of people have moved here (it’s cheap); cool markets, restaurants, and bars have opened; and a lot of old industrial land has been reclaimed for public use. It’s the new hip place to be but has much fewer crowds than the central part of the city!

Be sure to visit the famous EYE, Amsterdam’s film institute, and consider renting a bike to explore the area.

See Museum Amstelkring Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (“Our Lord in the Attic”) is one of the most interesting churches in the city. Hidden inside a 17th-century canal house, the clandestine Catholic church was built during Protestant rule. It was never really a secret but it was out of sight and out of mind for the authorities. The drawing room here is quite beautiful and the furnishings make it one of the most impressive 17th-century rooms left intact.

Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38, +31 20 624 6604, opsolder.nl. Open Tuesday–Saturday 10am-5pm (Saturdays until 6pm) and Sundays 1pm–6pm. Admissions is 16.50 EUR.

Explore the Museum Van Loon The Museum Van Loon is a double-sized canal house built in 1672 that is located on the Keizersgracht canal. The house was owned by the wealthy Van Loon merchant family who curated a beautiful art collection in their home (Willem van Loon co-founded the Dutch East-India Company in 1602, a massive trading firm and often considered the first multinational corporation in the world).

Today, their historic house is a museum showcasing period furniture, paintings, porcelain, and family portraits. There’s a beautiful garden here too. This is definitely a place not to miss.

Keizersgracht 672, +31 20 624 5255, museumvanloon.nl. Open daily 10am–5pm. Admission is 15 EUR.

Hang out in Vondelpark Vondelpark was created in 1865 and spans over 120 acres. It’s Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park is a great place to walk, bike, people-watch, enjoy a picnic, or just relax, especially after a visit to a local coffee shop. There’s a playground as well as places to play sports, and numerous areas for kicking back. During the summer, Vondelpark is filled with people, especially locals who hang out at the café Blauwe Theehuis for drinks in the center.

Try the Heineken Experience This museum used to be a lot better when it was cheaper and they offered more beer. It’s not a working brewery and, in comparison to the Guinness Museum in Dublin , it’s not great. But the price of admission buys you two beers and the interactive self-guided tour tells you all about how the beer was made and how the company evolved over the centuries (the beer dates back to the 1870s). It’s not a must-see, but if you like Heineken, then it is worth checking out. Get your tickets for the Heineken experience here.

Stadhouderskade 78, +31 020 261 1323, heinekenexperience.com. Open Sunday-Thursday 10:30am–7:30pm, Friday-Saturday 10:30am–9pm. Admission is 23 EUR.  

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 5

Visit the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam If you like modern art, this is the place in the city to see it! The museum is home to over 90,000 items including works by Jackson Pollock, van Gogh, and Andy Warhol. Founded in 1874, the exhibitions cover paintings, drawings, photography, graphic design, sculptures, sound, and installations. They also have a collection online with over 1.5 million digitized pieces of art.

Museumplein 10, +31 20 573 2911, stedelijk.nl. Open daily 10am–6pm. Admission is 22.50 EUR.

See the Houseboat Museum This decorated houseboat provides an interesting glimpse into what living on the canals is like. The museum is located in a former cargo ship (built in 1914) that was later converted into a living museum as the owner was bombarded by questions so often that he thought it would just be easier to open up the boat to the public and let them see it for themselves. I walked away with one impression of life on the canals: super neat, but super cramped. With admission at 5 EUR, it’s one of the cheapest museums in town and is worth a quick visit.

Prinsengracht 296K, Jordaan, Centrum, +31 20 427 0750, houseboatmuseum.nl. Admission is 6 EUR. Hours vary per season.

Take an alternative art tour I was really blown away by this unique tour that I took last time I was in Amsterdam. You get to see the city’s street art in alleyways, squats, and independent galleries while you learn about Amsterdam’s alternative side and underground and immigrant culture. All the people I took on it loved it. Visit Alltournative Amsterdam for more! Tickets are 20 EUR per person.

Wander the Amsterdam library The city’s library is a beautiful modern building built in 2007. It’s gigantic, overlooks the IJ, and has a wonderful top-floor cafe for impressive views of the city. It’s one of my favorite places to relax in the city. It’s quiet, peaceful, and there’s nothing like reading a good book with a great view!

Oosterdokskade 143, Centrum, +31 20 523 0900, oba.nl. Open Monday-Friday 8am–10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm.

Waterlooplein 2. waterlooplein.amsterdam. Open Monday to Saturday 9:30am-6pm.

Visit the Erotic Museum This museum is in the middle of Amsterdam’s Red Light District and highlights eroticism in all its forms through the ages. It has sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs, and other artwork from all around the world. Also included here are erotic sketches by John Lennon from The Beatles, which is something you won’t see every day! It’s similar to Sex Museum Amsterdam but focuses more on the “art” side of nudity and sex.

Oudezijds Achterburgwal 54, +31 20 627 8954, erotisch-museum.nl. Open daily 11am-1am. Admission is 8 EUR.

Oudezijds Achterburgwal 148, +31 20 624 8926, hashmuseum.com. Open daily 10am-10pm. Admission is 11.45 EUR.

Day Trips from Amsterdam

Day trip to Haarlem – Just a quick 35-kilometer (22-mile) train (or bike) ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a quiet walled city that dates back to the Middle Ages. It has a beautiful central church, a great outdoor market, and all the beauty of historic Amsterdam with fewer crowds (there are canal cruises to be had here too). Don’t miss the Corrie ten Boom House, a house used to hide Jews and other refugees during World War II. Some 800 people were sheltered here during the war, and the house has now been converted into a museum that you can tour. The train to Haarlem costs 4-8 EUR and takes about 15 minutes. It’s the perfect place to escape for an afternoon.

See the windmills – The Dutch are famous for their windmills, so why not set out on an adventure to visit the windmills surrounding Amsterdam? There are eight in total — most of which are in Amsterdam West. De Gooyer is the closest to the city center and also happens to be a brewery, making it the perfect place to start (and maybe never leave). It’s just a quick 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam Central.

You can also take guided tours to Zaanse Schans , an open-air living history museum that is often known as the windmill town. Here, you not only learn about the inner workings of the windmills but other traditional Dutch crafts, like clog- and cheese-making.  

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Personally, I think De Pijp is the best neighborhood to stay in as it’s a lot quieter and less touristy. The streets are lined with cool bars and restaurants, and the Albert Cuyp Market, the biggest street market in Amsterdam, is here too.

For a detailed look at the best areas to stay in, check out my post about Amsterdam’s best neighborhoods .

For hostel suggestions, be sure to check out my complete list of the best hostels in Amsterdam .

And if you would prefer hotels, here is my list of the best hotels in Amsterdam .

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Book Your Trip to Amsterdam: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Some of my favorite places to stay are:

• St. Christopher’s at the Winston
• Flying Pig Downtown

If you’re looking for more places to stay, here is a complete list of my favorite hostels in Amsterdam .

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They can save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Amsterdam? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Amsterdam for even more planning tips!

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Europe , The Netherlands , Travel

The best amsterdam itinerary for your first visit.

The Dutch capital of Amsterdam was a city that was on my forever bucket list but that just kept eluding me. We’ve visited every country surrounding the Netherlands, but somehow we just could never make it work. I was finally able to visit this incredible city for a week and I’m so happy I finally made it a priority! I fell in love with the old houses, meandering canals, and above all, the people.

I’ve met plenty of Dutch people and have some Dutch friends, so I was thrilled to finally see their home. I loved the people I connected with in Amsterdam and hope to come back again soon! It was just one of those trips that felt easy, with lots to do, but not stressful. For visiting mid-June I was surprised that it wasn’t nearly as crowded as I thought it might be. Compared to visiting Paris or London during peak season, Amsterdam was a dream!

I put a lot of time and energy into researching the best Amsterdam Itinerary to maximize my time there. I was able to cover a lot of ground in Amsterdam, but also do several day trips outside the city center to explore more of the beautiful countryside of Holland.

I visited with two other friends, so it was easy getting around without kids to worry about. I will say that if I had very small kids, I would have been stressed about them getting run over by bikes. The whole bike situation there is intense! The locals are cruising. They know what they’re doing, but it can make walking a bit hazardous. They should make you wear helmets if you walk! Ha! But seriously, just be cautious, especially while crossing the street, and don’t accidentally walk into a bike lane.

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Why the Dutch are Different

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Before visiting Amsterdam, try to learn what you can about Dutch culture and history. If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know that I love connecting my travels to books (why I run the British Book Club Tour) so it will come as no surprise that I read a few books to prepare for this trip. I also watched some shows and movies. Here is what I recommend reading and watching:

I read the book Why the Dutch are Different and found it very insightful into the lives of the Dutch. This was a cross between a humorous memoir and a travel diary around Holland. The audio was great.

Midnight Blue was a great novel about a girl living in 17th Century Holland, a time when Amsterdam is at the peak of its power. It’s a great historical fiction about the birth of the famous Delft blue pottery. If you’re planning to visit Delft on a day trip from Amsterdam, definitely read this book.

Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers was a great easy read about Vincent Van Gogh and his brother Theo. I’ll admit I didn’t know a huge amount about Van Gogh, but it definitely made my visit to the Van Gogh museum more meaningful to understand a little more about his life.

The Hiding Place is a book I read in middle school that I wanted to re-read before my trip to Amsterdam. It’s the story of Corrie Ten-Boom, a woman whose family hid many people during the German occupation of WWII. You can visit her home in Haarlem. I was glad I re-read it before visiting the house.

The Diary of Anne Frank was another middle school re-read for me. We read it during the beginning of lockdown. It was good for my kids to get some perspective at that time. If you’re visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, I highly recommend reading this or brushing up on it before you go. It will make your trip much more meaningful.

If you’re visiting the Anne Frank House or the Resistance Museum in Amsterdam, you should definitely watch A Small Light on Disney+. It made my visit to the house so powerful. I felt like I was friends with everyone involved. The show is so well done, but will make you cry. I watched it on the plane ride over and was in the bathroom crying. Just a disclaimer, that it’s less about Anne Frank’s life and more about Miep Gies, the person hiding the family in the annex.

These are some quick tips that I’m either glad I did or wish I would have done before visiting Amsterdam.

• Learn about the history of Amsterdam – You’ll appreciate your time there more
• Book a Flytographer shoot – Use code WANDERLUST for a discount
• Set up Apple Pay – most places take contactless/Apple Pay
• Watch out for bikes – especially when crossing the street
• Get the Go City Card – It will save you money!

Be sure to check out these first-timer tips for visiting Amsterdam for more ideas.

We wanted to stay somewhere central in the Amsterdam city center, but also be near Vondelpark. We chose Hotel Alexander and it was absolutely perfect. Very walkable to public transportation and within walking distance of most sites we wanted to see, but also in a quieter neighborhood so that we didn’t have the sound of nightlife while trying to sleep (getting too old for that).

It also had this massive replica of the Night Watch above my bed, which I thought was pretty comical. It was like staying in a mini Rijksmuseum. And speaking of…Hotel Alexander was designed by the same architect, Pierre Cuypers, who designed the beautiful Rijksmuseum. If you want some more hotel options, check out this good list of places to stay in Amsterdam here.

We got the 3 day Go City Card for Amsterdam and it more than paid for itself. It was a great way to see several museums for free and also to get our Zaanse Schans card. You can buy the Amsterdam Go City Card here.

Alright, now that you’re ready to prepare for your trip, let’s get down to planning out your Amsterdam trip! Here’s what I did each day.

Day 1 – Van Gogh Museum & Evening Canal Cruise

Day 2 – Photoshoot, Pancake Class, & Haarlem

Day 3 – Rijksmuseum, The Milkmaid Project, A’Dam Lookout, Cheese Museum, Tulip Museum, Houseboat Museum

Day 4 – Zaanse Schans, Tony’s Chocoloney, Foodhallen, Vondelpark

Day 5 – Delft & The Hague

Day 6 – Anne Frank House, Albert Cuyp market, 9 Streets, Resistance Museum, Microbe Museum, Red Light District

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 1 -Van Gogh Museum & Canal Tour

You’ll most likely be arriving at Schipol Airport. You can take the train into the city, but we had so much luggage that we opted to take an UBER to our hotel. The UBER pickup is located across the street at the Sheraton, just a quick 2-minute walk. It cost around $20 USD and was worth not hauling luggage on public transportation.

We jumped right into one of the many amazing museums in Amsterdam on our first day. Be sure to Book the Van Gogh Museum in advance, it does sell out. When we arrived there were no tickets left for the day, so I was glad we had pre-booked. You can get your tickets here.

We had a few minutes before our entrance time so we grabbed lunch at Museum Square which sits between the Van Gogh Museum, the MoCo Museum, and the Rijksmuseum. There are several food stalls. I just grabbed a hot dog, which was nothing to write home about. The burgers looked great though.

You can’t visit Amsterdam without taking a tour of Amsterdam’s canals. There are many options for canal cruises, but I didn’t want something that would be a large boat full of tourists, so I searched high and low for something more intimate. We decided on Pure Boats Amsterdam and it was absolutely perfect.

In fact, I ended up doing 2 tours with them. We took an evening tour before the sunset. They had a beautiful offering of cheese, crackers, nuts, and all-you-can-drink alcohol. I had apple juice in a fancy glass. It was perfect. Our guide was adorable. You get a totally different view of the city from the water and it’s just lovely!

I ended up doing a morning tour with my friend who’s flight was delayed and missed the evening tour. The morning tour was cheaper and shorter and also didn’t have any snacks, but did have drinks included. If I had to choose, I’d pick the evening cruise. But if you’re going with kids, then the morning cruise would be a great choice.

Since we had just flown in that morning, we were extremely exhausted and jetlagged. Instead of sitting down to a long dinner or eating something heavy, we opted to stop in at STACH, which quickly became one of our favorite snack stops and a great place to grab a treat or an iced chai! Lots of fun and local Dutch snacks to try!

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 2 – Photoshoot, Pancake Class, & Haarlem

One thing about traveling with your family or traveling solo is that I’m never actually in many (or sometimes any) photos! When I get the chance, I always like to book a Flytographer session when I travel. Not only do you get amazing photos by a professional photographer, but you get to meet a local and get a little early morning private tour of your destination. I booked a session with Tania and she was amazing. Doing a photoshoot by yourself can feel super awkward, but Tania put me right at ease and made me feel lovely and confident. You can use code WANDERLUST to get a discount on your photoshoot.

This was one of my favorite things we did on our Amsterdam itinerary. I booked a Pancake Cooking Class with Eat With . We were welcomed into our host’s home and given samples of traditional Dutch food like cheese and Applestroop (I’m obsessed) and pickled herring (I liked it more than I thought I would). Then our host taught us how to make Dutch Pancakes.

It was so fun to be welcomed into a local’s home and to learn a new skill that I could take home with me. My kids would have loved this activity too. I went home and cooked them Dutch pancakes. I highly recommend booking this class. It was worth the money for the experience, and we got fed too!

We took the train to Haarlem, which was easy to do. We had a tour of Corrie Ten-Boom’s house and then explored the lovely town of Haarlem. There are many cute shops here and we just spent a few hours wandering and shopping before taking the train back to Amsterdam.

If you want to try truly Dutch food, you may have to look a little harder than you’d think! Have you ever tried Dutch food outside of the Netherlands? Probably not, it’s because they’re not well-known for their food. So instead of lots of Dutch food places in Amsterdam, you’ll find a lot of international food choices, which is great, but also makes it harder to find traditional options. So we made a special trip to Moeders in search of traditional Dutch comfort food.

We visited Moeders, which means Mothers. It’s a mother-themed restaurant serving classic Dutch fare. Everything we had was delicious, but I think would be even better on a cold winter night! It was a lot of meat and potatoes. But the special part of Moeders is the pictures of all the mothers on the walls! Bring a picture of your own mom to hang on the wall!

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 3 – Rijksmuseum, The Milkmaid Project, Houseboat Museum, & A’Dam Lookout

Plan for several hours here and go in with a plan. Make sure you book tickets online in advance. Some of the most recognizable artworks are The Night Watch by famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt, and The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer, among many other beautiful works of art. Be sure to check out the Cuypers Library at the Rijksmuseum. It’s the largest and oldest art history library in the Netherlands and it’s absolutely gorgeous! If you have the Amsterdam Go City Card , the Rijksmuseum is included, but you still need to book your time slot.

We went to Winkel 43 for lunch. The big draw here is the apple pie and I have to say that it actually lived up to the hype! The food was good too.

Cheese & Tulip Museum

Take about an hour to see both the cheese and tulip museums. They’re small and cute, but so Dutch that you just have to go! You can sample all kinds of cheeses and take some home with you. They’re good outside the fridge for several days.

The Milkmaid Project

Now that you’ve seen Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, head over the The Milkmaid Project and step inside a painting. I randomly happened upon this project just by walking by the studio. This art experience was created by famous photograher, Sander Veeneman, who has recreated the “set” of The Milkmaid. It’s truly like stepping into a painting.

You can also recreate other paintings like Girl with the Pearl Earring or William of Orange. You can do group photos as well. Sander recreated Rembrandt’s Night Watch with all of his neighbors. Even if you don’t book a session, it’s worth walking into the studio to see his work.

This was such an incredible experience just talking to Sander. His passion for this project and art was so tangible and I loved spending time with him talking about the project. The cost is €95 and well worth it for the experience. You’ll get your own high-quality printed photograph to take home with you. Plan for about an hour for this experience and be sure to book ahead.

Houseboat Museum

Check out the Houseboat Museum. If you have the Go City card for Amsterdam, this museum is included. This is just an old houseboat that has been turned into a display so that you can see what living on a houseboat is like. You only need about 20 minutes to see it all.

A’DAM Lookout is a tall observation deck where you can see almost the whole city from above. To get here, you’ll need to take the free foot ferry across the IJ. You can take the elevator up to the top for the views or book “Over the Edge” swing!

A’Dam Lookout is covered by the Amsterdam Go City Card , but you still need to book your time on the swing. It was quite busy up here, but it was fun to see the old city of Amsterdam from above.

Dinner – Meatless District

We wanted to try this vegan restaurant in Amsterdam that had good reviews. For vegan food, it was really good. The beet root hummus and bread were amazing. I had the vegan chicken caesar salad, which was so insane because the “chicken” really tasted like chicken. Check out Meatless District if you’re into vegan food.

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 4 – Zaanse Schans, Tony’s Chocoloney, Foodhallen, Vondelpark

On day 4, we left the city and took a day trip to Zaanse Schans, an adorable living history village that shows you what life was like in the Netherlands hundreds of years ago.

We stopped at Rainbowls before heading to Zaanse Schans. We ended up loving it so much that we went back several times during our trip. They make amazing smoothie bowls, chia bowls, smoothies, and juices. It’s also in a super cute and artsy neighborhood called De Pijp.

After breakfast, we took an UBER to Zaanse Schans. Zaanse Schans is like a step back in time! It’s an old living history Dutch village with windmills, wooden houses, and little bridges over canals. It’s a great example of what life was like in the Netherlands in the past.

You could spend an entire day here, so give yourself enough time to see it all. It’s quite spread out and there are some great photo ops. If you have the Go City Card, the Zaanse Schans card is included. Just stop at the visitor center first to pick up your Zaanse Schans card. Show your card at each windmill or museum for free entry.

Be sure to visit the cheese shop where you can sample so many different types of cheeses! The cheese can be unrefrigerated for several days, so you may want to take a few wheels home with you.

This is a fun little touristy stop where you can pick up some Tony’s chocolate. They have a cool way to get the chocolate out by using a lever. Be warned: the labels are all in Dutch, so be sure you’re getting chocolate you want. This was a fun thing to bring home for my kids. They have a lot of flavors that you can’t get in the US.

Head back into the city and stop at Foodhallen where you can get any kind of food you like! It’s like a massive mall food court! Our favorite was the giant hummus plate! But they had everything from sushi to tacos. I have to say, Amsterdam does foreign food really well since their traditional food is probably not something you want to eat on a daily basis.

Foodhallen isn’t far from Foodhallen, so we walked over and took a long stroll through Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s main park. Since we were there in June, it stayed light until around 11:00 pm. It was fun to see so many people out and about so late at night. They call these the “white nights.” These photos were both taken around 10:00 pm!

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 5 – Delft & The Hague

On our 5th day in Amsterdam, we ventured out of the city again. We specifically went on a Saturday so that we could visit the Antique Market in Delft. So if you decide to take a day trip from Amsterdam. to Delft, save it for Saturday.

Today was another day trip day. We took the train to Delft early in the morning, which took around 45 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal, and walked to the Royal Delft Factory. I loved this factory tour. It was very well done, including a video, interactive museum, and you’re actually able to walk through the actual factory and watch the talented Delft artists painting the pottery and dishes. It was really incredible. There is a nice cafe at the factory, so we had lunch here.

If you want to spend a little more time here, you can book a class and paint your own plate or tile to take home. I couldn’t afford to buy anything at the gift shop, so a class might have been a better option for me!

If you plan to visit Delft, I recommend visiting on a Saturday so that you can explore and shop at the Antiekmarkt. We found so many great gems at this market, including more KLM houses for my collection.

I’m now wishing that I’d bought more, because they were a great price here. I also got an antique Delft vase. I was glad that I had just gone to the Royal Delft factory because I knew exactly what to look for and how to pick an authentic piece. They were also much more affordable than purchasing something at the Royal Delft Factory.

I also purchased a pair of old used clogs which sit on my doorstep with flowers inside. It’s a fun reminder of my time in the Netherlands. These were much cheaper than the tourist versions you can purchase at Zaanse Schans, so if you’re set on getting a pair of clogs, I would definitely get some here. They were around $15 vs. $65 at Zaanse Schans.

There are lots of things to do in Delft including walking along the Oude Canal, visiting the Old Church, Vermeer Centrum (Vermeer lived and painted here), and wandering the old city center. Honestly, I really fell in love with Delft and probably could have stayed here for several days. It was a nice break from the business of Amsterdam and it’s just so charming.

From Delft, we took the train to The Hague. This is the political center of the Netherlands. It’s a fairly large and modern city. The real reason we were here was to visit the Mauritshuis Museum and see Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring . This was a great art museum and I actually preferred it to the Rijksmuseum. It was smaller and more maneagable, it had great places to sit (I actually laid on the couch for a minute) and it had so much beautiful art that I actually really loved. Some famous works include Vermeer’s View of Delft , Paulus Potter’s The Bull, and Carel Fabritius The Goldfinch .

We took the train back into Amsterdam and had dinner at Blauw, an Indonesian restaurant. This was my first time having Indonesian food. It was really good! Everything is served family style, so there will be a lot of dishes on your table. We had all kinds of meats, rices, vegetables, and sauces.

Amsterdam Itinerary Day 6 – Anne Frank House, Albert Cuyp market, 9 Streets, Resistance Museum, Microbe Museum, Red Light District

The last day in our Amsterdam itinerary was all about World War II history. I saved the Anne Frank House until our last day and I’m glad I did. It was a very moving way to end our time in this beautiful city with a tragic history.

I couldn’t leave Amsterdam without having one more Dutch pancake! We stopped at Pancake Bakery and had a delicious banana Nutella pancake.

I was very excited to visit the Anne Frank house. I’ve been learning about her since I was 13 and it was such an incredible experience. I was so glad that I had done my research, re-read her diary, and watched A Small Light. It was worth it to have an experience that included so much understanding.

The house is very well done. It’s reverent without being boring. It’s sad, without being heartbreaking. An audio tour is included which was very well done. I definitely shed some tears. There’s an amazing gift shop with great books. I bought a great book to help my kids study the Holocaust and Anne Frank. You can also see all the languages that her diary was published in. It was fascinating.

You must book your Anne Frank tickets well in advance of your trip! There are no last minute tickets, so don’t even risk it, even during low season. Tickets are released 6 weeks before the date. I set an alarm and got up at 1:00 am to book our tickets. You can book a guided tour or a self guided tour. I wasn’t able to get the guided tour because spots are extremely limited. But the self guided tour was very well done.

De 9 Straatjes or “The Nine Streets,” are nine side streets in the heart of Amsterdam. The Nine Streets are located off the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht, and Singel in the city center. We did a little vintage shopping here and I found a few cute dresses, skirts, and shirts. All pants I found were definitely made for the much taller Dutch!

We walked to Albert Cuyp Market for lunch. Albert Cuyp Market, located in the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood, is the largest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands. With over 260 stalls stretching along the Albert Cuypstraat, you can find all kinds of goods, from fresh produce, fish, and spices to clothes, accessories, and electronics. It’s a great place to sample traditional Dutch treats like herring, stroopwafels, and fresh cheeses. It’s open six days a week and is closed on Sundays. We had falafel and a fresh stroopwaffel.

After lunch, we headed to The Resistance Museum, a museum dedicated to those who fought against the Nazis during WWII. This museum has so much information about specific members of the resistance and it very interesting. It’s really well done with videos and great labeling, but there is a lot of information. You may need to be ok with seeing about half of this, otherwise, plan on dedicating more than 2 hours to see all of it. Book your ticket ahead of time.

If you’ve had enough WWII history, you might want to consider Micropia . This Amsterdam museum is a museum all about microbes, which sounds weird, but it is actually super fascinating! I learned so much about the power of microbes. It’s really close to the Resistance Museum, so if you have extra time, you could do both.

It’s up to you if you want to visit Amsterdam’s Red Light District. I have mixed feelings about it. It’s part of the culture, but also not something I agree with or want to promote. I decided to go since I was there without my kids. I would never take my kids.

It’s just one of those places that you have to see to believe. There were women in windows in lingerie and men soliciting them. I just quickly walked through. It was very eye opening. If you want to avoid it, then I recommend taking notes of which streets are the busiest and avoiding those.

We wanted to end our time in Amsterdam with something fun and fancy. Secret Garden was beautiful inside. It was very expensive and the servings were very small, but the food was great. If you’re very hungry, I’d maybe opt for something else, but this was fun to taste!

That was our Amsterdam itinerary. I’m really happy with what we were able to accomplish in just under a week in Amsterdam. I think 6 days in Amsterdam was a good amount of time. I felt like we saw most of the city and were able to take several day trips. I would love to return to the Netherlands and explore more of the countryside.

I was really surprised at how much I fell in love with the culture, and even the food, in this country. I’d love to go back and visit during Christmas time.

I hope this helps you lay out your own Amsterdam itinerary! Please let me know if you have any questions about the city or what we did.

Frequently Asked Questions about my Amsterdam Itinerary

We had 6 days in Amsterdam and I think that felt like a good amount of time. There were a few more day trips I would have liked to take, so if you added a few more days, you could definitely fill them. But I really felt like I saw almost the entire city during our time.

Absolutely. If you cut out any day trips, I think 3 days in Amsterdam is a perfect amount of time.

I can’t speak for all the other months, but June was incredible. We had perfect weather the whole time, but keep in mind that a lot of places don’t have air conditioning, so it did feel hot in the hotel room. Once we had fans going it was fine. I would like to go back to Amsterdam in December to see the Christmas markets and the canals all lit up with Christmas lights.

I think for seeing the historic center of Amsterdam itself, 10 days is too long. But 10 days would allow you to take many more day trips from Amsterdam, which would be ideal. And the longer you stay, the slower you can travel, which is always a plus.

Absolutely, and I highly recommend doing so. Amsterdam is great, but the Netherlands are so much more than Amsterdam. Take a few days out of your Amsterdam itinerary to explore the rest of the country.

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Amsterdam Itinerary 4 Days

Bucket List , Europe , Itinerary , The Netherlands , Trip Plan

How to Spend Perfect 4 Days in Amsterdam for First Timers

Spending only a few days in any city won’t be enough time to appreciate everything the city has to offer. There is no way four days will be enough to explore charming cities like Amsterdam. At the same time, it is a reasonable amount of time to check off your Amsterdam bucket list and get a feel for the city during your first visit.

My Amsterdam itinerary for 4 days for first-time visitors is designed to help you see the best of Amsterdam with the limited vacation time. With this itinerary, I hope you can make the best four days in Amsterdam and lots of beautiful memories – as I did!

Updated on February 2, 2023. The original article was published on May 10, 2019.

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Bloemenmarkt (Amsterdam Flower Market)

Start your first day in Amsterdam with some tulips! I would’ve gone to tulip fields if I was in the Netherlands during the flower season. Since I wasn’t, the next best thing was Bloemenmarkt.

This flower market catches eyes as a row of flower shops are “floating” along the canal. The shops here sell more than just tulips; you can find all kinds of flowers and Holland souvenirs like painted clogs. In case you are interested, you can also buy tulip bulbs to bring home! But you must purchase the ones with the certificates to be able to pass customs in the U.S. or Canada. So be sure to ask the seller if they have not already marked as such. Spend about an hour max here.

Bloemenmarkt Hours : 9 am – 5:30 pm (Open at 11 am on Sundays.) | Open Google Map for Bloemenmarkt Location . 

Visiting Amsterdam in Spring? Don’t miss out on a day trip to the Tulip field! 

Munttroren – Pathé Tuschinski – Rembrandt Square

After lunch, enjoy the stroll around the neighborhood. Munttoren is a bell tower built in 1620, which was part of the city wall. Known as the Mint Tower, it’s a historical landmark with a small gift shop. It takes about five minutes to look around and take photos.

Walk towards Pathé Tuschinski Theater . It’s a historic cinema elaborately decorated in the art deco style. It’s something nice to look at from the outside to appreciate the architecture.

Continue walking along and you will arrive at the Rembrandt Square. The Rembrandtplein is an excellent place to people watch or take a photo with the Night Watch statues, which is an art installation inspired by Rembrandt’s masterpiece, The Night Watch.

Open Google Map for Munttroren – Pathé Tuschinski – Rembrandt Square .

Dinner: Dutch Classic Dishes at Moeders

For a traditional Dutch dish, go to Moeders, which is located right off the edge of the Jordaan district. It’s a hop, skip and a jump away from the tourist-crowded area, this local restaurant serves Dutch classics such as stamppot (vegetable mash pot), hachee (beef & onion stew), etc.

This endearing restaurant is dedicated to all mothers and decorated with thousands of photos of someone’s moms. (Moeders means mothers. Get it?) And their dishes are made as to how your Dutch mothers have cooked for you. The atmosphere is upbeat and cheering, and the staff here are all friendly, making you feel at home. I recommend making a reservation as it can get busy real fast.

Hours : 4 pm – 10 pm (Open at noon on Sat. & Sun.) | Open Google Map for Moeders Location .

Amsterdam Boat Tour

When in Amsterdam, taking a canal boat tour is a must. Do you think it’s too touristy? Nah. The Dutch know how to enjoy their canals. Amsterdamers pull out a table and chair to their doorstep to wine and dine with the canal view. When there is a national celebration such as King’s Day or Gay Pride, they parade on the water. All over the Netherlands, I saw the Dutch cruising the canal on their boats enjoying the weekends with a beer in their hands. I’m telling you, it’s not tourist stuff. Unless you have a Dutch friend who can take you on his/her boat party, a canal cruise is as local as it gets.

In summer, I recommend taking a boat tour in the early evening before the sunset . The streets along the canal get much quieter. The summer breeze on the ride gives a nice break from the heat during the day. But once the sun goes down, it can get chilly even in summer. So bring your jacket. (Some boat tours, like Those Dam Boat Guys, provide a blanket.)

The Big O and I took a tour with Those Dam Boat Guys (book here) , which was another recommendation from the Free Walking Tour guide. I would recommend Those Dam Boat Guys tour as it takes you on a much more intimate journey. Instead of the recorded or repeated announcement, you can have a meaningful conversation with your captain.

We had about seven people on our boat. During our two-hour ride, we shared a bottle of wine and snacks and took each other’s photos. One of the guys had an opportunity to drive the boat. We also got into an interesting conversation with Russian girls who claimed how Amsterdam is like a miniature St. Petersburg. We all got a good kick out of teasing those Russian girls on their national pride. (It was a light-hearted conversation, and no one’s feelings got hurt.) The ride was a fun and relaxing way to wrap up our day.

Alternatively, you can take this canal cruise tour , an evening canal cruise with bar service, or Hop-On Hop-Off Bus & Canal Tour . If you have an I Amsterdam Card or other city passes, a canal cruise tour is most likely included. 

↡↡ Book Amsterdam Canal Cruise here ↡↡

4 Days in Amsterdam : Day 3

Albert Cuyp Market

This cute street market in De Pijp hosts lots of stands selling local foods, clothing & shoes, souvenirs, flowers, etc. I wasn’t too impressed with the shopping options. But the highlights here are local snack foods:

Vishandel Molenaar : Get Dutch haring (herring) and fried fish platter.   You can never have enough of Dutch haring in Amsterdam. But if you have to choose between this and Frens Haringhandel due to time constraints, I’d go with the latter.

Rudy’s Original Stroopwafels : This is the best stroopwafels we ever had in the Netherlands! The freshly baked stroopwafels ooze out sweet caramel syrup from the crispy wafers.   I couldn’t resist mini stroopwafels in a Delftware-print tin box. The Stroopwafels guy shared the Dutch tradition of how to eat stroopwafels at home. Put a stroopwafel on top of a hot coffee or tea for a minute, and the caramel inside melts. Yum!

By the way, if you are ever going to buy stroopwafels for a souvenir, make sure to get them in a tin box. Unfortunately, my tin box got dinged inside the luggage but protected the stroopwafels from turning into crumbs.

Poffertjes (Mini pancakes): I don’t know if this stand had a name. I got poffertjes with Nutella. Great snack food.

Hours : 9 am – 5 pm (Closed on Sunday) | Open Google Map for Albert Cuyp Market Location .

Dinner at Foodhallen

Head over to Amsterdam Oud-West for a relaxed meal at Foodhallen. Foodhallen is an indoor street food market and bars with music, where locals unwind after work and enjoy a happy hour. The food and beverage vendors here feature a variety of international flavors.

Foodhallen used to be a tram depot before it was renovated into a refined food court. The original red brick walls and a trace of railway reminisce the original architecture. The open space with high ceiling invites plenty of natural lighting. With a hint of nostalgia, its contemporary design creates the relaxed luxury vibes that are as inviting and chill as the city of Amsterdam.

The Big O and I gobbled our way through the food hall, sampling Chicken Masala, Fritto Misto, Fish & Chips, etc. But the highlight of the evening was the Gin & Tonic Bar. We drank a serious amount of beers traveling through Europe over a month. Although European beers – especially Belgian Trappist beers – are all tasty, it was nice to switch to something else. For that night, Gin & Tonic was our choice of drink. I think we sat there for a couple of hours, sipping a few specialty gin & tonics.    

Hours : 12 pm – 11 pm (Friday & Saturday opens until midnight.) | Open Google Map for Foodhallen location . 

4 Days in Amsterdam : Day 4

Breakfast: dutch pancakes.

If you have a chance to eat breakfast outside of your hotel, try Dutch pancakes at Pancakes Amsterdam Centraal . It’s a busy restaurant, so it might be hard to get a seat without a reservation. We had a Dutch pancake elsewhere in another city and liked it a lot. I can’t compare it to this restaurant’s; however, the restaurant is conveniently located in the area to start our Day 4 itinerary and has excellent reviews.

Hours : 8 am – 3:30 pm | Open Google Map for Pancakes Amsterdam Centraal Location .

Red Light District (De Wallen)

The red light district (a.k.a. De Wallen) is uniquely Amsterdam. As many of you may already know, prostitution is legal in this neighborhood of Amsterdam. But if you go to the area before the lights are turned on in the evening, it’s nothing like how you imagine it to be. You will see some sex toy shops and coffee shops in business; however, that’s as R-rated as it goes. 

UPDATE: Starting 2020, Amsterdam will ban organized tours of the red-light district as a measure to prevent mass tourism and sex workers as a tourist attraction. If you are intimidated to visit this alley in the evening but curious, join a walking tour while you still can.

↡↡ Book Red Light District Walking Tours here ↡↡

Pro Tip: Do not take photos in the Red Light District. Sex workers here do not appreciate being photographed, and their privacy is protected. Don’t risk your phone or camera to be thrown into the canal.

What’s more interesting to me, though, is that this red light district is also home to two religious places: The Old Church (De Oude Kerk) and Our Lord in the Attic Church (Ons’ Lieve Heer Op Solder).

What to Do in Amsterdam NDSM

We decided to go directly to NDSM. If Amsterdam is like San Francisco, going to Amsterdam-Noord is like visiting Oakland. The NDSM wharf looked a bit rougher and edgy with the industrial vibes. NDSM features colorful art displays outside and often hosts live music performances and outdoor cultural events.

Anne Frank Portrait

Titled “Let me be myself,” this gigantic wall art by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra catches eyes as soon as you get off of the ferry.

Noorderlicht Cafe

It’s a quite quirky restaurant with outdoor seating by the river. The food, beer and smoothies here were all excellent. The view also was amazing. This would be a perfect place to chill in the afternoon.

IJ-Hallen hosts a monthly flea market in an industrial space. The second-hand market sells clothing, decorations, furniture, and home goods. Note the event is not free (admission: €5 for adult, €2 for children). Check the event date here .

Crane Hotel Faralda Amsterdam

This is a unique and quirky hotel. The giant crane was converted into an industrial-chic hotel. The rooms in the 4-star hotel boast an unobstructed view of the city of Amsterdam over the IJ. Spending a night at this crane hotel would be an exciting experience for travelers who seek out-of-ordinary accommodation. Check the availability and rates here .

READ MORE    9 Unique & Unusual Design Hotels in Amsterdam + One Honest Review

↡↡ Looking for Amsterdam Hotels? Book Your Stay here. ↡↡

Brouwerij ’t IJ

Up for sipping some Dutch craft beer to celebrate the last evening in Amsterdam?

Brouwerij ’t IJ is a windmill brewery with a relaxing yet upbeat beer bar.   This brewery has both a lovely terrace and indoor space. Their craft beer tastes fresh on the tap although some of their beer selections can be found outside of Amsterdam.   Brouwerij ‘t IJ is an excellent alternative to the Heineken Experience.

Be warned that this brewery is a busy place. You have to be lucky to get a terrace seat. We somehow managed to get an indoor table. But at first, we couldn’t even order their beer flights (€10) because they ran out of the cups. We also got to try ox sausage with the cheese plate over a variety of beer. We weren’t a big fan of ox sausage, but if you try, eat with mustard.

• Zatte is a triple beer, and possibly the best beer in Amsterdam according to my husband.
• Columbus is an amber beer and has a heavy flavor.
• Ijwit is a white beer and light.
• Summer Ale is refreshing with the fruity note. This summer beer was my favorite.
• Natte is Duvel and has a creamy flavor.
• Flink is a pale ale. It’s refreshing but slightly bitter than Summer Ale.

Pro Tips : Brouwerij ’t IJ offers group tours at 3:30 pm Friday through Sunday. 

Hours: 2 pm – 8 pm (Opens early at noon on Friday – Sunday.) | Open Google Map for Brouwerij ’t IJ location .

Dinner at Instock

Update: Instock is permanently closed. For food inspiration, check out 15 Delicious Dutch Snack Foods & where to find them. 

Instock is an entrancing concept restaurant near Brouwerij ’t IJ. With its mission to reduce food waste, the restaurant creates a daily menu from food surplus  in partnership with Albert Heijn supermarket and other local producers. The chefs create a course meal out of unsold or returned produce received from the partners. For example, they make kimchi out of cauliflower leaves, which are thrown away otherwise. Isn’t it brilliant?

Growing up in the Asian culture where no parts go wasted when it comes to cooking, I think I can appreciate the concept. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to eat here simply because we had to rush back to the hotel to catch 4 am train the next day. But I’m intrigued by its social initiative and how they are tackling the challenges. I heard good things about their creative menu and would love to check out next time. Let me know how it is if you get to go before I do!

Hours: 6 pm-midnight, only opens from Thursday to Saturday  | Open Google Map for Instock location . 

I Amsterdam City Card

Free admission to 44 museums & attractions (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Canal Cruise, etc.)

Plus, unlimited use of GVB public transport!

Get GVB Daily Pass & Save $$$

Unlimited access to Amsterdam’s buses, trams, ferries and metro.

1-7 Day Pass Available.

Tips for Amsterdam First-Time Visitors

1. bring enough euro..

I was surprised to learn Amsterdam is still a cash society. Many restaurants and hotels do accept Visa and Master cards. However, if you go to a local market, small shops or less touristy restaurants, they don’t take credit cards. The major supermarket chain, Albert Heijn, also is cash only.

2. Tap water is safe to drink.

Save your money and environment. You can carry a reusable bottle ( like this 500ml collapsible bottle for travel ) to refill water wherever you can. Refrigerated water bottles at a supermarket are expensive, and will quickly eat up your budget.

3. Riding a bicycle is not as easy as you think.

The Dutch are one of the most chill and laid-back folks I’ve ever met…until they get on a bicycle. If you don’t follow the rule – because you the tourists are not familiar with it – they will flip off and curse at you. And they go really fast on a bicycle. Whether you are riding on a bike or walking, your best bet is staying out of that bicycle lanes.

4. Take Advantage of GVB Pass.

Amsterdam is small enough to explore on foot but not that small. I still preferred to take the tram if the distance is more than two tram stops. It saved me so much energy and time. But transportation in Amsterdam is expensive. It might make sense to buy the GVB day pass (click to buy) , or consider I Amsterdam City Pass (click to buy) , which comes with the GVB pass for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

As of 2022, a one-hour GVB ticket costs €3.20. A GVB day pass (€8.50) is valid for 24 hours on trams, buses and metros. The Day Pass costs less per day as you buy the pass for a more extended period at 2 days/48 hours (€14.50), 3 days/72 hours (€20), 4 days/96 hours (€24.50), etc. If you are staying in Amsterdam for four days and expecting to use public transportation daily, your transportation expense is only €6.13/day with the GVB 4-day pass, which is less than two separate GVB tickets. 

5. Bring a light jacket or raincoat even in summer.

Amsterdam weather is unpredictable. I was lucky to enjoy all the sunny days during my visit. But I was ready for rain on any day because rain is pretty common throughout the year. Even for hot sunny days in summer, it could get chilly at night. Think of the weather in San Francisco/Bay Area. If you are not used to such climates, like me, prepare a light cardigan/jacket or scarf to keep yourself warm.

Where to Go Next in the Netherlands

>> Rotterdam : A hip, modern city with funky architecture

>> Delft : Imbibe in artisan Delftware and Vermeer’s masterpieces like The Girl with a Pearl Earring

>> Utrecht : Visit Europe’s Most Beautiful Canal City with a 2,000-year history

>> Gouda : The most famous Dutch cheese city, but more than just a cheese market

>> Woerden : The last “real” Dutch cheese market

Hope this itinerary helped you plan your perfect four days in Amsterdam! Bon Voyage.

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How to plan a trip to Amsterdam

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

CANAL TOUR. Amsterdam’s picturesque canals. Photo by Joshua Berida

Amsterdam has an eclectic mix of attractions that are wholesome (and not so wholesome), world class museums (Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum), parks, and quaint neighborhoods. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants and cafes if you simply want to chill for the day. You’ll have plenty to see and do whether you’re staying in Amsterdam for a few days or longer.

Getting a visa

You’ll need a Schengen visa to enter the Netherlands. Some of the basic requirements for a visa application include:

• Valid passport
• Photo (35x45mm)
• Accommodation confirmation
• Application form
• Proof of occupation or business registration
• Proof of funds (bank certificate, credit card statements, bank statements, etc.)

Check this link to learn more about the requirements and application process.

Get into Amsterdam

Schiphol Airport is your gateway to the Netherlands. You can also drive to the country, take the bus, or board a train from another European city. It’s convenient to visit not just Amsterdam but other places in the Netherlands once you’re in Europe. If you’re looking for flights, you can check out www.Skyscanner.com for schedules and prices. Book a flight as early as possible to get a good deal.

Get out of Schiphol Airport

If you’re arriving by plane, it’s easy and convenient to get out of the airport. You can take the train to the city after you arrive.

Getting around Amsterdam

It’s easy to get around Amsterdam. One of the most popular ways to explore the city is to rent a bike. Rentals cost around €10+++ depending on how long you’ll use the bike. It’s free to walk everywhere but time consuming.

However, Amsterdam has lovely neighborhoods you’d want to visit at a leisurely pace. You can also take the metro to get to places.

Itinerary and places to visit

Amsterdam has excellent museums, quaint neighborhoods, and different kinds of fun (the city has a famous/infamous red-light district) for all types of visitors.

Spend a few days checking out the highlights. You can then extend your stay if you want to do some day trips.

This itinerary assumes you start with one full day.

Start your day with a trip to one of the most popular museums in the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum. If you’re an art connoisseur, you’ll need more than a day to see the art collection in this museum.

However, for everyone else half a day is enough to see some of the highlights such as Johannes Vermeer’s Milkmaid , Van Gogh’s Self-portrait, Pierre Cuypers’ Great Hall , and Rembrandt’s Night Watch, just to name a few. The museum dates back to the late 18th century. It’s home to millions of historical and cultural artifacts collected over the centuries. It also contains thousands of paintings, manuscripts, and books.

After the museum, make your way to one of Amsterdam’s picturesque neighborhoods, Jordaan. The area has a mix of residences, places to eat, boutiques, and markets. You can also just take a leisurely stroll around the lovely neighborhood and then grab something to eat. A short distance from the Anne Frank House is a recognizable city landmark, Westerkerk or West Church. The latter dates back to the 17th century and has an attention-grabbing tower that’s more than 80 meters high.

Your next stop is the bustling Dam Square, where you’ll find the centuries-old Royal Palace. The Royal Palace has a classical appearance with elaborate furnishings in its apartments and interior. Dam Square is one of the busiest places in the city with peaceful protesters and demonstrations taking place, locals coming and going, and tourists being tourists taking photos of and with everything.

If you have the time and the interest, you can also visit the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum while you’re here.

The last stop for the day is Oude Kerk or Old Church, one of the oldest structures in the city. There have been additions to the church over the years, but it has remained the same.

Not too far from the church is Amsterdam’s infamous red-light district. The area has shops and cafes that sell marijuana, peep shows, bars, restaurants, and legalized prostitution. It’s a popular destination simply because taboos aren’t taboos here.

After breakfast, make your way to the Anne Frank House. This museum is one of the most popular destinations in the city. This was the house where the Frank family hid in during World War II, and where Anne wrote her now famous diary.

The administrators of the museum kept the house as it was during when the Franks hid in it. It serves as a reminder of the tragedies that took place during the Nazi regime.

I recommend buying tickets as soon as they’re available, you can purchase one here .

A short walk from the Anne Frank House is a quiet spot in the city, Begijnhof. This quaint, tranquil spot used to be the residence of devout Catholic women. Take a few photos and head on out. Your next stop is the Van Gogh Museum, a top city attraction that is all about the tortured but brilliant painter, Vincent van Gogh. The museum is home to the largest collection of the artist’s paintings and artifacts. The whole visit takes a few hours.

Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. You can buy tickets here .

After the Van Gogh Museum, head on over to Vondelpark. This huge and popular park is the perfect spot to take leisurely strolls after hours of sightseeing. Take a break at one of the cafes or better yet have your own picnic.

Day 3 I often try to allocate a day where I don’t do much sightseeing and just walk around the city or hang out at a café. You can consider doing the same during your third day in Amsterdam before returning to the Philippines or going to your next destination in Europe.

You can visit more attractions if you want, these include:

• National Maritime Museum
• Amsterdam Museum
• NEMO Science Museum
• Rembrandt House Museum

How much will you spend?

A budget of around P18,000 for three days covers a bed in a hostel dorm, budget meals, one or two paid attractions a day, and lots of walking and use of public transportation. This doesn’t include shopping and flights.

Amsterdam is an expensive city to explore but worth the money. It’s possible to spend more or less depending on your interest in museums and art galleries, and your preferred accommodation and restaurants.

Budget and travel tips

• Eating out for lunch is cheaper than dining out for dinner.
• Consider visiting during the weekdays. Accommodation tends to be cheaper compared to weekends.
• Book your tickets to popular museums such as the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum in advance (as soon as they’re available) because it’s almost impossible to get tickets on the same day.
• Walking is your most budget-friendly way of getting around the city. Amsterdam is small and most attractions are concentrated around the historic center. Most of the time, you won’t need to rent a bike or take the metro.
• Consider getting an I Amsterdam city card if you plan to visit plenty of paid attractions. This includes discounts, free use of the metro, a canal cruise, and bike rental, just to name a few.
• While walking around the red-light district, do not take pictures of the sex workers. There are signs explicitly prohibiting this.

–  Rappler.com

Joshua Berida is a writer who loves to travel. He blogs at  www.thewanderingjuan.net .

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Amsterdam 1-day itinerary | Explore Amsterdam in a day

Things to do in Amsterdam Amsterdam Travel Guide Amsterdam Itineraries Amsterdam In 1 Day

Amsterdam, often known as ‘Venice of the North’ is home to historic buildings, iconic museums and a unique vibe that escapes most other tourist cities. This 17th Century capital is unlike any other city in the world with its singularly creative art and culture scene. There's nothing quite like a stroll through its cobbled streets and narrow lanes. Each turn gives way to a new surprise; a cafe offering homemade pastries, a bookshop selling trinkets made from local items found in the city or a flower shop with a dazzling bouquet of multicoloured tulips. This city is also home to world-famous attractions like the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam and much more.

Don’t be overwhelmed with everything Amsterdam has to offer! There's a lot you can experience in one day. Our Amsterdam in a day guide has been carefully designed to give you the best experience possible.

1 Day in Amsterdam - How To Spend Your Day

• Morning in Amsterdam  :   Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum & Vondelpark  
• Afternoon in Amsterdam  :   Amsterdam Begijnhof, Amsterdam Canal Cruise & Anne Frank House 
• Evening in Amsterdam  :   Damrak & Foodhallen  

Amsterdam In A Day - Detailed Itinerary

Say hello to the rijksmuseum and vondelpark.

Rijksmuseum

The van gogh museum.

National Art Museum

Largest Museum in the Netherlands

Begin your day in Amsterdam with a little history! The Dutch national museum, Rijksmuseum , was founded in the Hague on 19th November 1798 and moved to Amsterdam in 1808. Located at the Museum Square, it is home to over 8,000 pieces of art and history, including masterpieces by Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt, Frans Hals, Van Ruysdael and more. Ideally, you'll need about two hours to explore the Rijksmuseum, but if you're short on time, you can also opt for a quick one hour tour. Rijksmuseum is open between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For children under 18 entry to Rijksmuseum is free, while adults have to pay €19.

• As one of the most popular landmarks in Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum is generally crowded and the waiting line at ticket counters is usually long. Avoid this by pre-purchasing your tickets online.
• Begin your visit in the Gallery of Honour and Night Watch Gallery will position you smack in the center of the second floor, which is bookended by the Great Hall and Sculpture Gallery.
• Take advantage of the free wifi, since there are several types of tours, integrating thematic tours or specific rooms/galleries tours and mentioning the highlights among artists, times, or types of works.
• All You Need To Know About Rijksmuseum Amsterdam
• Top 4 Rijksmuseum Guided Tours 2022
• Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum Reopens To The Public

🇳🇱  Hot Local Tip 🇳🇱  

The Gallery of Honor attracts the most people because it’s home to The Night Watch and other gorgeous Golden Age paintings. If you arrive in the morning, head straight to these pieces first. If you arrive after 3 p.m,  save them for last.

Most Visited Attraction in Amsterdam

Art Aficionados

Dedicated to the works of art maestro Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries, the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most visited attractions in Amsterdam. Since its inception in 1973, this art museum boasts the largest collection of paintings and drawings by Van Gogh in the world and offers a memorable experience to both art aficionados and casual visitors. The museum consists of two buildings: the Rietveld building, and the Kurokawa wing, that feature artworks by Van Gogh’s contemporaries like Auguste Rodin, John Russell, Emile Bernard, Maurice Denis, Paul Gauguin and more.

• The museum closes at 6:00 PM from Saturday to Thursday, while on Friday it closes at 9:00 PM. Last admission to the museum is 30 minutes before closing time, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Take out sufficient time for your visit and avoid going on a rainy day.
• The museum prohibits photography and the rule is strictly enforced. As a remembrance of your time spent with Van Gogh, you can pick up a souvenir or postcard from the gift shop.
• The Ultimate Guide For A First Time Visitor | Van Gogh Museum
• Top 3 Van Gogh Museum Guided Tours 2022

🇳🇱  Hot Local Tip  🇳🇱 

You can take photos at the designated areas and selfie walls, but remember to turn the flash off and leave your tripods at the hotel. There’s also free Wi-Fi available throughout the museum.

Perfect Mix of Tech

Global Artists Work

Head to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest and most famous public park, for a few peaceful hours amidst nature. Centrally located, the Vondelpark attracts more than 10 million visitors annually. Apart from its natural beauty, you can also enjoy free concerts which are organized at the open-air theatre or the park's bandstand. Other attractions at Vondelpark include a statue of the poet Vondel, the Groot Melkhuis with a playground for children and the cast iron music dome. You can also visit the Blauwe Theehuis, a popular ring-shaped cafe, for a refreshing drink.

• You can opt for well-known shopping streets, PC Hoofstraat and Beethovenstraat. Both of these shopping streets are pretty much crowded because of its popularity. If you are looking for a quieter place to shop, go to Cornelis Schuytsraat.
• Tourists interested in equine can fulfil their craving at Hollandsche Manege, which is Vienna’s celebrated Spanish Horse Riding School.
• Taking a Taxi for the commute is the fastest option as it would only take 15 mins. However, the cost would be on a little higher side with 40 Euros a ride.

🇳🇱 Hot Local Tip 🇳🇱

Amsterdammers turn out in droves for the free open-air theater performances every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during summertime.

Restaurant Recommendations

Time for breakfast? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:

Exploring Amsterdam's Architectures

Amsterdam Begijnhof

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Anne Frank House

Historic Courtyard

Best Treasures of the City

Oldest Hofjes

Continue your day in Amsterdam by visiting one of the most famous and historic hofje in the city: Begijnhof. Hofje in Dutch means courtyard. Back in the day, hofjes were closed communities where widows and seniors lived together. Begijnhof was a little different from your typical hofje and functioned almost like a nunnery, although the women were free to leave the order and get married. Visit Begijnhof to get a truly authentic look at Amsterdam with a church, ancient houses and more housed within a beautiful courtyard, right next to the bustling city center.

• Begijnhof is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and entry is free of charge.
• One can reach in a short time of 15 minutes with a taxi ride. The cheapest option available that consumes less time is by sharing your ride.
• The best time to visit Begijnhof is from April to May and September to November. These months of the year are best to explore the true colors of the area.
• Photography and any kind of filming are prohibited at this place. Many people don’t even like getting photos of their private residences being clicked.

🇳🇱  Hot Local Tip 🇳🇱

You can go on tours that take in the Begijnhof courtyard, and possibly the best way to do this is by booking a personalised tour of Amsterdam so that you choose exactly where you want to go.

Important Landmarks

Family Friendly

An experience you must have while in Amsterdam is a cruise through its Golden Age era canal system. It’s a pleasant sight to witness the beautiful city from a boat. Given their popularity, you'll find countless canal cruise options to choose from. There are semi-open boat tours, evening canal cruise, hop-on hop-off canal cruise, an Amsterdam culinary cruise and many others. A canal cruise is also a great way to explore the city without having to walk too much. While each cruise option follows a different route, you'll be passing by iconic Amsterdam landmarks in all of them.

• Try booking your Amsterdam canal cruise tickets online to avoid waiting in long lines.
• Consider Skip the Line Tickets & Combo Deals.
• For Travel Flexibility, Try The Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise.
• Make Use Of The Audio Guides.
• Your Definitive Guide To Finding The Perfect Amsterdam Canal Cruise
• Amsterdam Canal Cruises Reopens Post COVID-19 Lockdown

🇳🇱  Local Travel Tip  🇳🇱

Everything is possible - candle-light dinner, museum tour and also some wacky variants like the pancake roundtrip.

Historic Landmark

Oldest Landmarks in Amsterdam

This biographical museum is dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank and is arguably one of the most important landmarks in Amsterdam. Anne Frank museum was originally the Frank family’s escape, where they hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. While Anne herself did not survive, her diary was published in 1947 detailing her time during the war. This museum opened in 1960 and showcases a permanent exhibition on the life of Anne Frank including rare family pictures, the room in which they remained hidden and other authentic memorabilia.

• The Anne Frank House is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
• Ticket price for adults is €10 and for children aged 10-17, it’s €5. For children aged 9 and below, entry to The Anne Frank House is free.
• You can buy tickets online to avoid waiting in a line.
• All You Need To Know About The Anne Frank Walking Tour In Amsterdam
• Anne Frank House In Amsterdam Now Open for Visits | Post Coronavirus Updates

  🇳🇱  Local Travel Tip  🇳🇱

You'll need to reserve your tickets to the Anne Frank House as early as possible. As soon as you know you're going to Amsterdam, book those babies.

Time for lunch? Fret not, there are many good restaurants around the area. Our personal recommendations include:

Cruising and Strolling About Amsterdam

Heart of Amsterdam

Famous Destination

The Damrak is an avenue in the heart of Amsterdam, located between Amsterdam Centraal railway station and Dam Square. A partially-filled canal, the Damrak is now Amsterdam’s equivalent of New York's Wall Street. This busy street was once home to Beues van Berlage, the former stock exchange building and other historic buildings usually found on postcards from Amsterdam. Damrak is also lined with cafes, restaurants and tourist shops, making it the perfect stop for a snack or an early dinner.

• The best time to visit Dam Square is during late autumn till the early winters get over.
• Reach Dam Square by car, bus, and train.
• You can click photographs freely at most of the places except where it is not allowed. Watch out for the “No Photography” sign.

🇳🇱  Local Travel Tip  🇳🇱

Experience the Dutch food culture here and make sure to grab on the specialty dishes: Korket, Dutch cheese, and stroopwafel.

Heavenly Food

Local Delicacy

Walk to the final destination in your one day Amsterdam tour -- Foodhallen, an indoor market that houses some of the best food options in the city. Foodhallen is particularly great for tourists who don't want to struggle to find a good place to eat. Here, you'll find both local and international cuisines in one convenient place; from fresh oysters and lobsters to hot dogs and gourmet pita bread, Foodhallen has all your food cravings sorted. An added bonus of visiting Foodhallen is the chance to interact with locals and attend fun events.

• You can try some of the stalls in other places so maybe go for the ones that are unique.
• It's not the cheapest way to eat, but certainly most main dishes at De Foodhallen are under €10 which if you compare that to a restaurant is decent.
• Follow the tramlines which are still on the ground and admire the beautiful old architecture of a building that has been lovingly restored.

Stall Recommendations

Time for dinner? Fret not, try to maximize your foodie experience, from stands that freshly-fry classic Dutch bitterballen, to places that serve up twists on old favorites!

Best Time To Visit Amsterdam

Spend a day in amsterdam under €100.

With an action-packed visit and great savings at hand, your trip to Amsterdam will have you coming back for more! Not only do you benefit from unlimited access to Amsterdam's public transport system, but you also gain access to some of the best attractions in the city for 24 - 120 hours!

I Amsterdam City Card

Over the course of the time you choose to spend here, enjoy the best the Dutch capital has to offer on this hassle-free I Amsterdam City Card. Gain unlimited access to public transport, a free one-hour canal cruise, along with several famed museums and attractions. You will get to visit the ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe where you can experience nature right in the centre of the bustling city. You will also get to visit the magnificent Stedelijk Museum, along with the Rijksmuseum, the Diamond Museum, NEMO Science Museum, Rembrandt House Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam and many more! Enjoy additional benefits such as discounted rates at cafés, restaurants, bike rentals and many more!

Headout Price: €99

More Amsterdam Itineraries

Have some more time to kill in Amsterdam? That's alright, we've got other options for you. Check out our other itineraries for further inspiration:

• 3 Days in Amsterdam
• 7 Days in Amsterdam
• The Amsterdam Trip Planner

The Perfect Amsterdam Trip Planner

Public transportation in amsterdam.

Getting around in Amsterdam using public transport is convenient and easy on the pockets too. Here are your options:

• Metro : Amsterdam's metro network originates from Central Station and connects to the city's outlying districts including Bijlmer, Amstelveen and Diemen. With over five different routes and 39 stations, the metro is perfect for long-distance travel. You can purchase a one-hour ticket or a rechargeable public transport chip card at GVB service desks or vending machines at metro stations.
• Buses : There are three primary bus operators in Amsterdam: GVB (operating mostly within the city), Connexxion and EBS. The bus network in Amsterdam is pretty comprehensive and well connected with over 42 different routes across the city. Buses are also the cheapest mode of public transport in Amsterdam. You can purchase single-journey tickets or one-hour tickets directly from the driver. A more convenient option would be a 24-hour ticket which grants you unlimited access to the bus network for an entire day.
• Trams : An iconic part of Amsterdam's public transport network, the tram service is best suited for short-distance travel within the city. One of the quickest ways to get around and into the city centre, the tram in Amsterdam is spread across 14 lines and 100+ stops. When travelling by tram, most locals make use of the public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart). However, if you’re in the city for just one day, you can get a one-hour ticket aboard a majority of Amsterdam trams -- a ticket attendant sits in a booth towards the rear of most trams.
• Ferries : Take a ferry to cross River IJ if you're on a walking tour, or using your cycle or moped. The ferry service is free of cost and a great way across the water to and from Amsterdam Noord.
• Bikes : One of the best ways to explore Amsterdam in all its glory is on a bike. You'll find cycles or fiets available everywhere in the city for rent. You can rent a cycle for around €7 for a couple of hours or €9.50 for a day.

If paying for all the modes of transport seems like too much effort, make use of the convenient I Amsterdam Card. This card gives you free access to over 70 museums, city-wide public transport and discounts on restaurants and concerts. If you're nervous about navigating the unfamiliar Amsterdam landscape, there are many apps you can use to plan your travel.

Where To Stay in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is home to a variety of housing options since it sees millions of tourists every year. Depending on your budget, you can choose to stay in either quirky, comfortable hostels, welcoming homestays or luxurious hotels. Here’s a list of options to choose from:

1. Around Van Gogh Museum:

• Conservatorium Hotel (5-star)
• Amsterdam Marriott Hotel (5-star)
• Hotel van de Vijsel (4-star)
• Jan Luyken Hotel Amsterdam (4-star)
• Hotel Seven one Seven (5-star)
• Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel Amsterdam City Center (5-star)
• The Bedstee Boutique Capsule Hotel (3-star)
• Amsterdam Hostel Leidseplein (2-star)
• Pulitzer Amsterdam (5-star)
• W Amsterdam (5-star)
• Sebastian's (4-star)
• Hotel Mercier (4-star)
• Nova Hotel & Apartments (3-star)

Tips & Hacks For Making The Best of Amsterdam In A Day

• Given how bike-friendly Amsterdam is, there's a dedicated lane for bikes in the city. Make sure you stick to this lane while riding. Also, don't stop in the middle of the lane to click photographs since you'll be obstructing the way for other riders.
• Amsterdam is one of the few cities in the world where cannabis is legal. You'll find countless Coffeeshops within the city selling marijuana and related products. Note that this Coffeeshop is different from your regular Coffee Shop. Ask around if you're having trouble locating a Coffeeshop.
• Pack regular clothes like jeans, thin sweaters or light jackets, since the city has a very laid back vibe. Also, no matter what time you visit Amsterdam, bring a scarf since it gets pretty windy during the evening.
• Remember to carry an umbrella at all times. Amsterdam weather is often unpredictable and you don't want to be stuck in the rain, especially when you only have one day to explore the city.
• Fridge magnets and keychains aren't the souvenirs you would want to take home from Amsterdam. Instead, you can choose from unique Dutch licorice, candy, cheese or alcohol. You'll also find wooden clogs at Zaanse Schans, funky crockery, cookie moulds and more items specific to Amsterdam.
• Socket Type C, E And F can be used to charge your devices in Amsterdam.
• When planning your trip, book tickets for the attractions you're planning on visiting as well. Booking tickets in advance not only works out to be cheaper but you can also avail discounts and cashback offers.
• Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful, multicolored tulips. Please note that tulips bloom only from mid-March to mid-May. Don't be fooled by sellers offering tulip bulbs in spring.

20 Amsterdam Travel Tips & Hacks

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FAQs: Amsterdam 1 Day Itinerary

Is amsterdam worth visiting.

Yes, Amsterdam is worth-visiting for everybody to unleash their wanderlust and discover the beauty and heritage of this city.

What are a few of the must-visit places in Amsterdam?

Some of the must-visit places in Amsterdam are Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Speciality Museums, Van Gogh Museum, The Jordaan, A'dam Lookout, Vondelpark, and Moco Museum among others.

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is between March to April and September to November.

What are the top things to do in Amsterdam?

Tourists are usually seen bustling on the roads of Amsterdam. One can take a tour of the canals, go sightseeing, cycle to hidden gems, visit museums, try herring from a herring cart and much more.

What is the cheapest mode of transportation in Amsterdam?

If you don’t want to walk around the city while experiencing the beautiful sights, you can choose to opt for an OV chip card.

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Kubra Fatima does not like referring to herself in the third person, but has to do it anyway. She loves writing, but never publishes — mostly because readers might have an ulcer if privy to her private thoughts. Her dream is to retire in Bora Bora, surrounded by just water, a library and music. Until then, she will fantasise about the many holidays she has been on in her mind and hope that one day some come true.

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Everything you need to know about getting around the Netherlands

May 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Ample cycle lanes and flat terrain make the Netherlands a dream to explore by bike © Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Navigating the Netherlands is a breeze. Its compact size means there are no domestic flights and the efficient, highly integrated public transport network of trains, buses and ferries covers all corners of the country.

The flat terrain and extensive bicycle paths lacing the country also make it possible to travel around entirely on two wheels. Here’s what you need to know to get moving.

Plan your public transport journey

First things first: if you’re taking public transport anywhere in the country (including within cities), journey planner 9292.nl calculates the most efficient journey for you in real-time, notifying you of any disruptions and providing a cost estimate. It’s available online or you can download the app.

Trains are ideal for covering distances quickly

The backbone of the Netherlands’ public transport is its superb rail network. Most lines, including the major routes, are operated by the national train company, NS ( Nederlandse Spoorwegen ), which handles all scheduling and fares. Dutch trains are modern and comfortable, and the service is reliable and frequent across the country.

In addition to regular services, high-speed Intercity direct trains operate between Amsterdam , Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam and Breda, with a supplement between Schiphol and Rotterdam. A supplement is also charged for domestic travel on the Amsterdam-Utrecht-Arnhem route aboard ICE International trains.

Medium and large railway stations have a full range of amenities but smaller stations often have no services at all, not even a staffed ticket window (tickets, if not prepurchased, are available at vending machines; more information on ticketing later).

Bringing a bicycle on NS trains is possible in off-peak hours (9am to 4pm and 6.30pm to 6.30am Monday to Friday, plus all day on weekends, public holidays and during July and August). In addition to your fare, you’ll need to pay €7.50 for a fietskaart dal (off-peak bicycle ticket) .

Buses are handy for regional explorations

Part of the Netherlands’ integrated transport system, buses are good for short distances and filling the gaps in the rail network. This is especially true in parts of the north and east of the Netherlands where trains are infrequent or nonexistent.

Ferries offer scenic voyages in some areas

Ferries ply the waters in a number of local areas. You can travel from the mainland to the island of Texel and the Frisian Islands , and some inter-island ferry services link the most populous islands in the summer season.

In Zeeland, in the Netherlands’ south, passenger ferries operate on the Westerschelde . The Waterbus  is a fast ferry service that operates between Rotterdam and Dordrecht and to destinations such as Kinderdijk’s historic windmills. Other minor services also provide links across the country’s canals and waterways.

Cycling is an easy and exhilarating way to explore the Netherlands

To roll like the Dutch do, hop on a fiets (bicycle). With its flat, often beautifully scenic landscapes, mild maritime climate and outstanding cycling infrastructure, the country is prime for exploring on two wheels. You’ll find rentals at most train stations and in towns and cities countrywide.

For short distances and day trips, the fietsknooppuntennetwerk (cycle junction network), made up of knooppunten (junctions, i.e. “nodes”) where cycle routes converge, is easily navigable. Route-finding apps include the Fietsersbond Routeplanner .

For long-distance cycling journeys, check out the Landelijke Fietsroutes (LF routes), which continue to expand and are downloadable on a handy app . Helmets aren’t mandatory in the Netherlands but can be a literal life-saver; you can hire them from bike rental outlets.

Driving lets you reach out-of-the-way locations

The state-of-the-art Netherlands infrastructure means smooth, easy-to-navigate roads. Traffic can be heavy on major freeways and around the bigger cities, however, and parking can be scarce and expensive (and perilously close to canals).

Parking meters typically require you to type in the license plate and pay by credit card or a mobile app. Around bigger centers, a “Park & Ride” car park is generally your best and cheapest option. Always be mindful of wide bike lanes when driving and watch out for cyclists!

How to buy public transport tickets

Tickets for the Netherlands’ public transport system are charged according to the distance traveled and can be purchased in several ways.

E-tickets (printable) and mobile tickets (downloadable to your phone/NS app) can be purchased from NS online  – you access the gates by scanning a QR code on your phone. Buy carefully as they aren’t refundable. An alternative is buying tickets on the Trainline website , which adds a booking fee but permits refunds up to the day before travel.

For single trips, you can buy a disposable OV-chipkaart (which incurs a €1 surcharge per journey on top of the standard fare). For multiple journeys, you can buy a reusable OV-chipkaart or use OVpay (while a new digital OV-pas is being rolled out this year, the OV-chipkaart system will remain in use until at least 2025).

With an OV-chipkaart or OVpay, it’s important to hold it against the reader to “check in” when entering transport and “check out” when exiting (or forfeit your deposit).

A reusable OV-chipkaart costs €7.50 and is valid for five years. You then load it with credit at ticket machines. There’s a minimum €10/20/4 for buses/trains/other forms of transport such as trams, which is held as a deposit during your journey and the balance refunded afterward. These reusable cards are automatically activated if bought from NS stations, otherwise, you may need to activate it for “pre-paid travel without NS subscription” at train station ticket machines or service desks.

An alternative to a physical OV-chipkaart is OVpay, using a contactless debit/credit card (Maestro, V PAY, Mastercard or Visa only) to “check in” and “check out” of your journey. The upside is saving the cost of the reusable card or disposable card surcharge, the downside is only being able to track the fare in your card/bank statement (tallied and charged once per day).

Accessible transportation in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is committed to making all of its public transport accessible for people living with disabilities in the near term and is making sound progress. Already, most buses, ferries, trams, metros and trains have wheelchair ramps, wide-opening doors and/or level platforms, designated wheelchair places and priority seating, and wheelchair-accessible onboard bathrooms for longer services.

National train operator NS offers travel assistance at over 100 stations throughout the Netherlands. In smaller destinations, it’s worth checking with tourism authorities before you travel to assess transport suitability.

Tourist passes can be a straightforward, money-saving option

A simple and often cost-effective way to use the Netherlands’ public transport system is with a tourist day ticket.

A Holland Ticket, despite its name, covers the whole of the Netherlands (not just the provinces of North and South Holland). The standard Holland Travel Ticket (€70) gives you unlimited travel by train, bus, tram and metro any day of the week, including peak hours. A cheaper off-peak Holland Travel Ticket (€48) can be used on weekdays before 6.30am and after 9am, and all day on weekends and public holidays. It’s sold at NS ticket machines, service desks and online.

If you’re sticking to one area, look for tickets such as the Amsterdam Travel Ticket or wider Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket (including trains to/from Schiphol airport), or the Tourist Day Ticket for South Holland , around Rotterdam, Delft, Den Haag and Leiden, covering all transport including Waterbus services.

Keep planning your trip to the Netherlands:

Use your tourist day ticket to explore our pick of the best places to visit Check out the Netherlands' social calendar and pick the best time for your visit Start planning your must-see list now with our round-up of the top things to do in the Netherlands

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Epic Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany: Everything You Need to Know for a Fantastic Trip

A re you considering getting out of amsterdam on a day trip and wondering where to go amsterdam is a great spot to use as a home base for a lot of western europe and germany would be a great option to add to your trip. here’s everything you need to know to have a really fun day trip.

This article may contain affiliate links . If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Starting your Day in Amsterdam

Embarking on day trips from Amsterdam to Germany unravels a tapestry of experiences, blending the allure of beautiful cities with the serenity of the Dutch countryside and the rich history of Western Europe. You’ll find yourself navigating through quaint canals, lush tulip fields , and vibrant city centers, all within a stone’s throw from Amsterdam Centraal.

The diversity of destinations offers something for everyone, from the art lover in Den Haag to the history aficionado in Cologne. Direct trains and efficient road trips make these adventures not just dreams but easily attainable realities. Your journey will be enriched by guided tours, offering deep dives into the heart of German culture and its scenic landscapes, making every moment an exploration of diverse cultures and the beauty of the Netherlands.

Key Takeaways:

• Seamless Accessibility: Direct trains and road trips simplify travel between Amsterdam and top German destinations.
• Cultural Immersion: Guided tours enhance the experience with insightful explorations of Germany’s rich history and vibrant local lifestyles.
• Diverse Experiences: From historic cities to picturesque countryside, these day trips offer a wide range of activities and sights.

Why Choose Germany for Your Day Trip from Amsterdam?

Germany is an excellent place for those starting in Amsterdam and seeking an adventure filled with diverse cultures and a rich history. The Rhine River flows through old towns and beautiful cities, marking a perfect place for both relaxation and deep dives into Western Europe’s medieval history. Museums abound, offering informative tours of locations where history comes alive, telling stories of times long past.

Germany’s blend of the old and the new creates an unforgettable trip. Imagine strolling through small towns or embarking on a boat ride that transports you through picturesque landscapes, each turn revealing another layer of the country’s most famous symbols. Envision standing before the Brandenburg Gate, a moment capturing the essence of an entire trip. This experience isn’t just a journey; it’s a deep exploration of what makes Germany the perfect place for a quick visit that will have you planning when you can come back to spend more time.

Planning Your Day Trip: Essentials to Know

Before setting foot on the direct trains to start your day trip to Germany or venturing onto the roads, you must consider the essentials.

Booking tickets in advance stands as the best way to ensure a seat on your preferred mode of transport, whether that be the comfort of Amsterdam Centraal’s direct lines or the freedom of a rental car. Checking train schedules meticulously will save much time, allowing for more exploration in this beautiful country.

Guided tours offer an excellent opportunity for a deep dive into the local culture, history, and beauty of the Netherlands and beyond. Opting for a small group tour could provide insightful and informative tours of locations otherwise overlooked. This planning phase lays the foundation for an amazing day trip, filled with unique experiences and the chance to see some of the country’s most famous symbols up close.

The Best Way to Travel: Train, Car, or Tour Group?

Deciding on the best mode of transportation from Amsterdam to Germany requires balancing convenience with experience. Trains stand out for their ease of access and lack of additional costs tied to parking or rental. Direct trains from Amsterdam Centraal can whisk you to major German cities in just a few hours, offering a blend of comfort and efficiency. However, this option might limit how much time you can spend exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Opting for a rental car opens the door to the scenic Dutch countryside and the flexibility to stop at quaint little towns along the Rhine River. The road trip itself becomes part of the adventure, allowing for a deeper dive into Western Europe’s beauty. Yet, navigating foreign roads and managing parking in bustling city centers can prove challenging.

Small group tours present an excellent balance, delivering informative explorations of iconic sites without the stress of planning the entire trip yourself. These tours often include guided visits to locations like the Cologne Cathedral affording a closer look at the diverse cultures within easy day trip distance from Amsterdam. The downside might be the lack of personal freedom to explore at your own pace, as these tours follow a set itinerary.

Amsterdam Centraal: Your Gateway to Germany

Amsterdam Centraal, a bustling hub in the heart of the city, stands as your premier gateway to exploring the charm and history of German cities. Direct trains, departing frequently, offer a seamless journey from the Dutch capital to various destinations across Western Europe, eliminating any concerns about complex transfers or excessive travel times. A trip to cities like Cologne or Düsseldorf turns into an effortless adventure, highlighting Amsterdam Centraal’s strategic importance for eager explorers.

With tickets in hand and a short walk to the platform, you’ll find yourself embarking on an unforgettable road trip. The station, not just a point of departure, is a testament to the beauty of the Netherlands, blending rich history with modern efficiency. From this iconic starting point, the entire region unfurls at your feet, inviting you on a myriad of amazing day trips.

Top German Cities to Explore from Amsterdam

The variety of direct trains and travel options make every destination within an easy day trip’s reach. The magic of the Amsterdam Centraal station serves as your gateway, unlocking the beauty of Western Europe’s picturesque landscapes and the rich history of its cities.

Cologne: A Fusion of History and Modernity

You’ll find Cologne an excellent place for an easy day trip from Amsterdam. Effortlessly accessible by direct trains, this German city showcases a vibrant blend of past and future. Experiencing the majestic Cologne Cathedral , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like a deep dive into medieval history. Yet, just outside, the city pulses with modern life.

Strolling along the Rhine River offers a captivating view of Cologne’s picturesque skyline. Here, the rich history of Western Europe meets a dynamic urban lifestyle. Whether you join a guided tour or explore on your own, Cologne promises ample time to discover its beauty. This city effortlessly balances its historic churches, ancient town hall, and charming old town with hip districts like the Belgian Quarter, where local cuisine and diverse cultures thrive.

Düsseldorf: Where Tradition Meets Lifestyle

You’ll find Düsseldorf offers a unique juxtaposition, where centuries-old buildings stand in harmony with vibrant art installations. This beautiful city along the Rhine River promises both serenity and pulsating culture. Inexpensive trains from Amsterdam Centraal will have delivered you here, where the journey unfolds into an exploration of tradition meeting contemporary lifestyle.

Intriguing guided tours will likely lead you through little towns that embody the rich history of Western Europe, yet urge you to embrace the modernity woven through Düsseldorf’s streets. Small group tours or a leisurely boat ride along the river give ample time to reflect on how this city balances its historical roots with a forward-thinking ethos. Whether it’s marveling at the gothic architecture of historic churches or enjoying a contemporary performance in the Kunst im Tunnel, Düsseldorf exemplifies how seamlessly the old and new can coexist.

Pre-trip Tips: Making the Most Out of Your Day

Embarking on a day trip from Amsterdam to Germany requires a well-thought-out plan. You’ll need to check train schedules carefully; direct trains offer the most relaxing way to traverse the countryside. Booking tickets ahead of your travel date can spare you from unnecessary stress and additional cost.

Packing for your journey demands simplicity yet preparedness. Bring essentials that cover the day’s activities, from a guided tour of Cologne’s historic city to a leisurely boat ride on the Rhine River. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Remember, the weather can be unpredictable; carrying a lightweight raincoat ensures you’re ready for anything.

Lastly, immersing yourself in the local cuisine enhances the entire trip. Secure restaurant reservations in advance, especially in popular destinations like Düsseldorf or Cologne. This foresight ensures not just a table at sought-after spots but also a deeper dive into the diverse cultures and rich history of Western Europe, making your excursion an unforgettable one.

Local Delights: Dining and Shopping in Germany

Germany teems with delightful indulgences for the curious traveler. You will find the local cuisine intoxicating, a blend of traditional flavors and innovative creations. Dive into quaint beer halls in Düsseldorf, where hearty meals serve as a prelude to a night of exploration. Shops along the cobblestone streets offer artisan crafts and luxury wares, perfect for finding that unique memento.

In Cologne, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the scent of local sausages, enticing you to small, family-owned eateries. These spots, often hidden gems, provide an intimate glimpse into German culinary traditions. The Rhine River promenade beckons for an afternoon stroll, dotted with boutiques showcasing the beauty of local artisanship. Here, shopping transforms into a cultural deep dive, each purchase a story of the country’s rich history and diverse cultures.

Guided Tours vs. Exploring on Your Own

Embarking on a day trip from Amsterdam to Germany opens up a spectrum of enriching experiences. You face a crucial choice: opting for an informative guided tour or diving into the adventure of independent exploration . Both paths offer distinct advantages tailored to different traveler types.

On one hand, a guided tour guarantees a deep dive into the rich history and diverse cultures of German cities. Professional guides, equipped with extensive knowledge and can bring the beauty of the Netherlands and Western Europe alive.

Plus, travel time flies by with engaging narratives, transforming even the journey into an educational delight. You won’t fret about missing the best views or local cuisines; these tours ensure you get a closer look at the country’s most famous symbols without the extra cost and hassle of planning.

Conversely, setting off on your own promises an unscripted adventure where each turn could lead to unexpected discoveries. Amsterdam’s central location, with direct trains and easy day trip options to small towns and major Dutch cities alike, empowers you to embrace the charm of Western Europe at your pace.

This route invites a personal connection with charming villages and bustling city centers, offering the freedom to explore local delights and diverse cultures on whims. The thrill lies in navigating the unknown and crafting a unique journey that reflects your preferences and curiosity.

Cultural Insights: Embracing the German Lifestyle

You’ll find that embracing the German lifestyle adds an unforgettable dimension to your trip. Germany’s rich history and diverse cultures offer ample opportunities to dive deep into local traditions. A great day trip bound for cities such as Cologne or Düsseldorf opens doors to exploring the very essence of Western Europe.

Tasting local cuisine stands out as one of the best things to do. Imagine savoring a slice of traditional Sauerbraten in an old town tavern or biting into a freshly made Bratwurst in a lively food market. Participating in local events can equally enrich your entire trip.

Don’t shy away from striking conversations with pleasant employees at small cafes or asking your tour guide for insider tips. This approach not only opens you up to the warm hospitality characteristic of German cities but also enables a deeper connection with the charming villages, bustling city centers, and the picturesque countryside you traverse.

Capturing Memories: Photography and Souvenirs

The beauty of the Netherlands and the charm of German cities offer countless opportunities for capturing memories. You would find the Cologne Cathedral, with its towering spires and intricate façades, an excellent place for photography. This iconic landmark serves as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage that define the region. Guided tours often provide additional insights, making your photos even more meaningful.

In Düsseldorf, the Rhine River promenade presents a most relaxing way to enjoy the views. Here, a boat ride at sunset can afford you the best view, combining the tranquility of the river with the vibrant life along its banks. Souvenirs that embody the essence of your German adventure might include small replicas of the Cologne Cathedral or traditional beer steins from local markets. These items are popular attractions among visitors for their craftsmanship and authenticity.

Back in Amsterdam, the quaint canals of Giethoorn and the historic windmills at Zaanse Schans offer picturesque scenes straight out of a storybook. Capturing these moments allows you to take a piece of the Dutch countryside home. Consider local artisan crafts or Dutch tulip bulbs as souvenirs, reflecting the country’s most famous symbols and offering a lasting reminder of your journey.

Safety and Etiquette in Germany

While embarking on a road trip to the rich history and diverse cultures of Germany offers an amazing day trip opportunity, you should still understand how to stay safe and honor the local etiquettes in this new environment for a pleasant experience.

First and foremost, acknowledging local customs will endear you to the residents. Simple gestures, such as greeting shopkeepers in their native language, can make a significant difference. Remember, the best way to immerse yourself in the culture is by showing respect. For safety, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Pickpockets are not uncommon, and a moment of negligence could dampen your entire trip. Moreover, being aware of the country’s most famous symbols and their meanings can prevent unintentional disrespect.

Lastly, navigating through the cities and small towns safely involves using public transportation or renting a car responsibly. Always adhere to local traffic rules and ensure you have ample time to return to your base in Amsterdam. This blend of caution and appreciation for local traditions will ensure your day trips from Amsterdam to Germany remain a cherished memory, full of delightful discoveries and respectful encounters.

FAQ: Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany

Can you take a day trip to germany from amsterdam.

Yes, you can take a day trip to Germany from Amsterdam. With direct trains and efficient road connections, several German cities are easily accessible within a few hours, making for an exciting and manageable day trip.

What German city is closest to Amsterdam?

The closest major German city to Amsterdam is Düsseldorf. It is approximately 2 hours away by train, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a day trip.

Is there a high-speed train from Amsterdam to Germany?

Yes, there are high-speed trains, such as the ICE (InterCity Express), that connect Amsterdam to various German cities. These trains offer a quick and comfortable way to travel between the two countries.

What is the best day trip from Amsterdam?

The best day trip from Amsterdam depends on your interests. Popular options include Cologne for its stunning cathedral and vibrant city life, and Düsseldorf for its blend of traditional charm and modern culture. Both cities offer rich experiences and are easily accessible by train.

How far is Amsterdam from Germany?

Amsterdam is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the German border. The distance to specific cities like Cologne or Düsseldorf is around 200-250 kilometers (124-155 miles), which can be covered in a few hours by train or car.

Is it doable to visit both Amsterdam and Berlin in five days?

Yes, it is doable to visit both Amsterdam and Berlin in five days, but it will be a packed itinerary. You can spend a couple of days in each city and use a high-speed train or a short flight to travel between them. This plan will allow you to experience the highlights of both cities within a limited timeframe.

Can you drive from Germany to Amsterdam?

Yes, you can drive from Germany to Amsterdam. The road trip offers scenic views of the countryside and the flexibility to stop at various points of interest along the way. The journey can take a few hours depending on your starting point in Germany.

Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Amsterdam to Germany

As the train whisks you back to Amsterdam Centraal from the heart of Germany, the sights, sounds, and tastes of your day trip begin to settle in your memory. The majestic Cologne Cathedral, and the charming streets of Düsseldorf have given you a taste of the rich history and diverse cultures that Western Europe has to offer. You’ve experienced firsthand why these destinations are among the best day trips from Amsterdam.

But this adventure doesn’t have to end here. Amsterdam serves as a perfect place for launching into even more explorations across Western Europe. With direct trains and flights readily available, places like Den Haag, Keukenhof Gardens , and even further destinations beckon with their own stories to tell. Whether you choose to navigate these trips on your own or join a small group tour, ample time and planning will ensure each day trip enriches your understanding and appreciation of this region’s deep history and vibrant life.