Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It is known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, world-class museums, and relaxed atmosphere. In this guide, we will provide you with a 3-day itinerary that will allow you to experience the best of Amsterdam. We will also share travel tips, routes, and recommendations for where to sleep and eat in Amsterdam. Plus, we’ll tell you about some free tours you can take to get to know the city better. Let’s get started!
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a visit to the Rijksmuseum, one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam. It houses an impressive collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
- After the museum, take a walk through the beautiful Vondelpark, which is Amsterdam’s largest park. It is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or people-watch.
Afternoon
- Head over to the Van Gogh Museum, which is located in the Museumplein area. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings in the world.
- After the museum, take a stroll down the Leidsestraat, which is a popular shopping street with a variety of stores and restaurants.
Evening
- For dinner, head to De Foodhallen, which is a trendy indoor food market with a variety of international food stalls.
- After dinner, take a stroll through the Jordaan neighborhood, which is known for its picturesque streets and cozy cafes.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a visit to the Anne Frank House, which is a museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II.
- After the museum, take a walk through the Westerpark, which is a beautiful park with a variety of art installations and a petting zoo.
Afternoon
- Head over to the Albert Cuyp Market, which is one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.
- After the market, take a canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective. There are many different canal tour operators to choose from, so be sure to shop around for the best deals.
Evening
- For dinner, head to De Pijp, which is a trendy neighborhood with a variety of restaurants and bars. Try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as bitterballen or stamppot.
- After dinner, check out some live music at Paradiso, which is a famous music venue located in an old church.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a visit to the Amsterdam Museum, which is located in the heart of the city. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of Amsterdam, from its early days as a fishing village to its current status as a global city.
- After the museum, take a walk through the Red Light District, which is one of Amsterdam’s most famous and controversial neighborhoods. Here, you can see the famous windows and learn about the history and current status of prostitution in Amsterdam.
Afternoon
- Head over to the NEMO Science Museum, which is a fun and interactive museum for all ages. Here, you can learn about science and technology in a hands-on way.
- After the museum, take a walk through the Plantagebuurt neighborhood, which is known for its beautiful gardens and historic buildings.
Evening
- For dinner, head to De Kas, which is a restaurant located in a greenhouse. They specialize in using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes.
- After dinner, check out some of Amsterdam’s famous nightlife spots, such as the Rembrandtplein or the Leidseplein.
Travel Tips in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam is a very bike-friendly city, so consider renting a bike to get around.
- Be aware of the tram tracks when walking or biking, as they can be slippery and dangerous.
- Most shops and museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Be respectful of Amsterdam’s laws and customs, especially when it comes to smoking weed or visiting the Red Light District.
- Buy tickets for museums and attractions online in advance to avoid long lines.
Where to Sleep in Amsterdam
- The Hoxton – a trendy hotel located in a historic canal house.
- The Dylan – a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of the city.
- Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark – a budget-friendly hostel located in the beautiful Vondelpark.
- Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam – a 5-star hotel located in a row of historic canal houses.
- Generator Amsterdam – a modern and stylish hostel located in the trendy East neighborhood.
Where to Eat in Amsterdam
- De Foodhallen – a trendy indoor food market with a variety of international food stalls.
- De Pijp – a trendy neighborhood with a variety of restaurants and bars. Try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as bitterballen or stamppot.
- De Kas – a restaurant located in a greenhouse. They specialize in using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious and innovative dishes.
- Café Hoppe – a traditional Dutch pub with a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of beers.
- Pancakes Amsterdam – a popular spot for traditional Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savory.
Free Tours in Amsterdam
- New Amsterdam Tours – offers a variety of free walking tours, including a Red Light District tour and a Street Art tour.
- The Sandeman’s New Europe – offers a free walking tour of Amsterdam’s main sights, as well as a variety of paid tours.
- Free Dam Tours – offers a free walking tour of Amsterdam’s historic center, including the Dam Square and the Royal Palace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?
The best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months.
Do I need to speak Dutch to visit Amsterdam?
No, most people in Amsterdam speak English fluently. However, it is always polite to learn a few basic Dutch phrases, such as «hallo» (hello) and «dank je wel» (thank you).
Is Amsterdam a safe city to visit?
Yes, Amsterdam is generally a safe city to visit. However, like any major city, it is important to take precautions against pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?
The best way to get around Amsterdam is by bike or public transportation. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and metro lines, as well as bike lanes and rental bikes.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is a city with something for everyone. Whether you are interested in art, history, or just having a good time, you can find it here. We hope this 3-day itinerary has given you some inspiration for your trip, and that you have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city. Don’t forget to visit the official tourism website of the city of Amsterdam for more information and resources: https://www.iamsterdam.com/en
