A city of charming canals, world-class art, and unique history, Amsterdam is perfect for a three-day escape. This itinerary balances must-see cultural spots with the city’s relaxed, vibrant atmosphere.
Closest Airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Day 1: Canals, History & The Jordaan
Morning: Canal Cruise & Anne Frank House
- A Must-Do: Start with a Canal Cruise. It’s the best way to orient yourself and see the iconic 17th-century canal belt architecture from the water.
- Reflect on History: Visit the Anne Frank House in the Jordaan district. Crucial Tip: Tickets must be booked online, often weeks or months in advance, and are released on the museum’s website. They rarely sell tickets on the day.
Afternoon: Explore the Jordaan
- Wander through the picturesque Jordaan neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets, quaint houses, and cozy brown cafés.
- Discover De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), a photogenic area packed with boutique shops, vintage stores, and independent designers.
- Lunch: Grab a typical Dutch sandwich or a warm stroopwafel (a thin caramel waffle) from a market or bakery.
Evening: Local Flavour
- Enjoy a traditional Rijsttafel (rice table) dinner—an Indonesian feast of many small dishes—a culinary legacy of the Dutch colonial past.
- Take an evening stroll through the oldest part of the city, which includes the infamous Red Light District (De Wallen). Be respectful—photography of the workers is strictly forbidden.
Day 2: Art & Museumplein
Morning: Dutch Masters
- Head to Museumplein (Museum Square). Start at the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands. Focus on the Gallery of Honour to see masterpieces like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and works by Vermeer.
- Tip: Give yourself at least 2-3 hours for the Rijksmuseum.
Afternoon: Post-Impressionism and Relaxation
- Visit the nearby Van Gogh Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works, tracing the evolution of his art and life. Book tickets online in advance!
- Relax in Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park. Rent a bike, people-watch, or grab a coffee at one of the park’s cafes.
Evening: Heineken or High Culture
- Option 1 (Beer Lover): Head to the Heineken Experience for an interactive tour and tasting at the brand’s former brewery.
- Option 2 (Culture): Check out the program at the Concertgebouw (Concert Hall) near Museumplein for a classical music performance.
Day 3: Markets & Day Trip Options
Morning: Markets and Hidden Gems
- Visit the Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market) to see the colourful stalls (though many bulbs are now for tourists, it’s a colourful sight).
- Browse the bustling Albert Cuyp Market in the De Pijp neighbourhood, a great place for street food (try haring—herring—or poffertjes—mini pancakes).
- Seek out a hidden gem: The Begijnhof, a serene medieval courtyard in the city centre.
Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure
- Option 1 (Traditional Holland Day Trip): Take a short bus or train ride to Zaanse Schans to see authentic Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and traditional crafts like clog and cheese making.
- Option 2 (Modern Amsterdam): Take the free ferry across the IJ river from behind Central Station to the Amsterdam-Noord district. Visit the A’DAM Lookout for panoramic city views and, if you’re brave, the “Over The Edge” swing.
- Option 3 (Art & Culture): Visit a niche museum like the Rembrandt House Museum or the modern art focused Stedelijk Museum.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
- Have a farewell dinner in the trendy De Pijp or the classic Jordaan.
- Look for a gezellig (cozy and friendly) brown café for a final taste of local Dutch beer or jenever (Dutch gin).
Travel Tips
- Getting Around: Amsterdam is highly walkable and bikeable. Consider renting a bike for a true local experience. Trams are efficient for longer distances.
- Tickets: Always book popular museum tickets (Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum) online and well in advance to guarantee entry and save time.
- Stay Safe: Watch out for bikes—they have the right of way! Be mindful of pickpockets in busy areas like Dam Square.
- Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€). Card payments are widely accepted.