Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, lively cycling culture, and incredible museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. The city's mix of historic 17th-century architecture and modern flair gives it a unique charm that draws people in.
Whether you're here for a short visit or an extended stay, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Amsterdam.
If you only have one day to explore, it's important to focus on the city's top attractions. Here's a carefully curated itinerary for a memorable day in Amsterdam:
9:00 AM–10:30 AM: The Anne Frank House
Start your day at the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about the life of Anne Frank and the history of the Holocaust. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. The museum opens at 9:00 AM and entry costs €16 (approximately $17.40).
10:45 AM–12:00 PM: Jordaan Neighborhood
After visiting the museum, take a stroll through the Jordaan neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, quaint boutiques, and cozy cafes. Stop for a coffee and a local pastry at one of the charming cafes while soaking in the atmosphere.
12:15 PM–1:15 PM: Canal cruise
Make your way to a nearby dock for a relaxing canal cruise. Many operators offer one-hour trips through the city’s canals, providing beautiful views of the historic buildings and bridges. Tickets usually range from €15 to €25 (approximately $16.30 to $27.20).
1:30 PM–2:30 PM: Lunch in the Nine Streets
Disembark from your cruise and head to the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) for lunch. This picturesque area is filled with trendy shops and cafes. Enjoy a meal at a local eatery; options include Dutch pancakes, sandwiches, or a fresh salad.
2:45 PM–4:00 PM: Rijksmuseum
Next, visit the Rijksmuseum. This museum is home to an impressive collection of Dutch art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Allocate about 1.5 hours for your visit. Entry costs €25 (approximately $27.20), and booking in advance is recommended.
4:30 PM–5:30 PM: Vondelpark
After the museum, take a short walk to Vondelpark, the largest park in Amsterdam. Spend some time wandering through its beautiful gardens or simply relax on a bench and enjoy the scenery before moving on.
6:00 PM–7:30 PM: Dinner in De Pijp
Head to the De Pijp neighborhood for dinner. Known for its diverse dining options, you'll find everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international fare. Consider dining at a Dutch restaurant to sample dishes like stroopwafels or herring.
8:00 PM onwards: Evening at a local bar or brewery
Finish your day by visiting a local bar or brewery. Consider exploring the vibrant craft beer scene at Brouwerij 't IJ, where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, find a cozy bar along the canals to unwind and reflect on your day in Amsterdam.
If you have a bit more time to spend in Amsterdam, take advantage of the opportunity to explore further with this expanded itinerary:
Follow the one-day itinerary for the essential landmarks.
Start your morning with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum. For an entry fee of €32.50 (approximately $35.30), you'll have the chance to see the largest collection of Van Gogh's works. Plan to spend two to three hours exploring these incredible pieces of art.
In the afternoon, take a short stroll to the nearby Museumplein, a lively square where you can enjoy the outdoor art installations and relax in the park-like atmosphere.
As evening approaches, make your way to Leidseplein for dinner. This lively area is packed with restaurants and bars, perfect for experiencing Amsterdam's vibrant atmosphere. After your meal, you might want to catch a live music performance. Check out Melkweg, a popular spot that hosts a variety of acts, or head over to Paradiso, a unique venue set in a former church.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Royal Palace on Dam Square. For an entry fee of €12.50 (approximately $13.60), you can explore its opulent interiors and learn about the building's fascinating history as a venue for royal events and ceremonies.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Amsterdam Museum. Dive into the city's rich history for an entry fee of €20 (approximately $21.75), spending a couple of hours wandering through the exhibits. Be sure not to miss the beautiful garden, a serene spot to enjoy during your visit.
After dinner, consider joining a guided evening bike tour through the city. You’ll pedal past Amsterdam’s charming canals and beautifully lit streets while soaking up the history and culture of the area. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city's magic after dark!
For those looking to dive deeper into Amsterdam’s culture, history, and unique neighborhoods, here’s a five-day itinerary that allows for a more relaxed pace and additional exploration:
The first three days of this itinerary are the same as in the three-day itinerary, allowing you to cover essential landmarks and cultural highlights.
In the morning, start your day at the A’DAM Lookout, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. The entry fee is €16.50 (approximately $18), which grants you access to the lookout point. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try the "Over the Edge" swing for an additional fee. This thrilling experience is Europe’s highest swing and offers a unique perspective of the city.
In the afternoon, discover the NDSM Wharf by taking the free ferry from Central Station. This industrial area turned cultural hotspot features impressive street art, galleries, and creative spaces. You can grab lunch at one of the quirky eateries in the area, such as a food truck or a lakeside café.
After dinner, take a stroll to the famous Red Light District, locally known as De Wallen. This historic area features illuminated windows where sex workers openly advertise their services. Beyond its adult entertainment, the Red Light District showcases beautiful architecture and reflects Amsterdam's liberal culture.
For your final day in Amsterdam, consider taking a day trip to nearby destinations. Here are two fantastic options to consider:
Option 1: Zaanse Schans
In the morning, take a short train ride to Zaanse Schans (about 20 minutes), a picturesque village featuring historic windmills and traditional Dutch houses. This beautiful spot is ideal for strolling around and capturing stunning photos.
In the afternoon, visit the wooden shoe workshop and cheese factory to see how traditional Dutch clogs and cheeses are made. While you're there, grab lunch at a local café to refuel.
As evening approaches, return to Amsterdam for dinner in a neighborhood of your choice. Enjoy the ambiance and variety of dining options available.
Option 2: Haarlem
In the morning, catch a train to Haarlem (about 15 minutes). Start by visiting the impressive Grote Kerk (Great Church) and explore the quaint streets filled with charming shops and cafes.
In the afternoon, discover the Frans Hals Museum, which showcases works by the Dutch master and other artists (entry €15 or approximately $16.30). Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Haarlem before heading back to Amsterdam.
In the evening, return to the city and take a scenic canal cruise. This relaxing trip will let you see the city from a different perspective while you enjoy the beautiful lights reflecting off the water. It’s a perfect way to end your trip to Amsterdam!
Note: Feel free to spread this itinerary out over seven or more days if you prefer a more relaxed pace. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in each experience, enjoy the local atmosphere, and have plenty of time to discover hidden gems throughout the city and its surroundings. Take your time to savor everything Amsterdam has to offer!
Amsterdam offers a range of hotels to cater to all types of travelers and budgets. Here are three recommendations across different budget categories:
Set along the picturesque Herengracht canal, The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam provides an elegant stay with opulent rooms and top-notch service. The average price per night is approximately €970 ($1,055).
For those seeking a mid-range option, The Times Hotel combines comfort with modern amenities. With rates starting around €200 ($217) per night, this hotel is conveniently located near major attractions and public transportation, making it a great base for exploring the city.
For travelers on a budget, CS Hotel is an excellent choice. This affordable hotel features comfortable rooms starting at approximately €70 ($76) per night. Located close to the city center, it provides easy access to public transport and major attractions, ensuring a convenient and economical stay in Amsterdam.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam or anywhere in the Netherlands, consider getting an eSIM for seamless connectivity. An eSIM allows for easy data access without the hassle of changing physical SIM cards.
Explore some of the top Netherlands eSIM providers in the table below and find the plan that works best for you.
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
 | Holafly | Simple activation, unlimited data, 24/7 customer support | Hotspot sharing not supported | from $6.90 (unlimited data) |
 | Saily | Affordable pricing, easy setup | No unlimited data plans, no live chat | From $3.99 |
 | Airalo | Reliable performance, user-friendly app | Unreliable customer support, no unlimited data plans | From $4.50 |
The best day trip from Amsterdam is to Zaanse Schans, a charming village just 20 minutes away by train, where you can explore traditional windmills, wooden shoe workshops, and cheese factories.
Yes, Amsterdam is very walkable! The city's compact layout and beautiful streets make it easy to explore on foot, with many major attractions within walking distance.
The number one tourist attraction in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. This poignant museum is located in the actual house where Anne Frank hid during World War II, offering a meaningful glimpse into her life.
Rain can occur throughout the year in Amsterdam, but the months of October to January are typically the rainiest. It's always wise to check the weather forecast before your visit and pack an umbrella just in case.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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