As a fellow traveler who has just returned from an incredible long weekend in Amsterdam, let me share a whirlwind itinerary for a few unforgettable days in the city.
How to get to your Accommodation in Amsterdam from Schiphol Airport
From Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, various transportation options are available to reach your accommodation. The most convenient and commonly used methods are the train, taxi, or bus. The train offers a direct connection to Amsterdam Central Station, providing easy access to the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the airport, offering a more direct but pricier option. Additionally, buses run from the airport to different parts of the city.
Within Amsterdam, the city boasts an excellent public transportation system. The tram, bus, and metro networks are efficient and cover most areas. Purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable smart card, is the most convenient way to pay for and access public transport. Biking is also a quintessential and popular way to navigate the city, with rentals widely available. Walking is another fantastic option, as Amsterdam is a compact and pedestrian-friendly city, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the canals and streets at a leisurely pace.
We stayed there for 5 days and not once did I complain about buses/trams/metro/taxi/train being late, they were always on time and super fast. You could rent a car if you want but I would highly recommend their public transport.
Things you should know before you travel to Amsterdam
Your travel checklist
Some things that I wish I had known before traveling, unless you are traveling to Amsterdam in July or August make sure you:
Get yourself an umbrella
Pack some warm clothing (Layers, sweaters, hats, scarf, gloves)
Comfortable walking shoes, preferably waterproof
Don't forget your power adapter
Get a raincoat
Get a waterproof cover for your camera
You will pay a small tourist fee when you first check in at the Hotel you're saying - it's a one-time fee
Make sure you keep some time blocked and stay indoors if you are thinking of trying some brownies or Truffles.
Book your activities online on Get Your Guide, it's cheaper to book online than paying it at the desk.
Here is information on 2 hotels that we tried while there.
This Brand has a lot of Hotels around Amsterdam depending on where you want to stay in.
They don't do lunch or dinner but getting food from Uber Eats or other Restaurant apps is completely normal - you order your food and the Hotel staff will bring it up to your room when they receive it.
I actually quite liked this! People don't go on long weekend trips to eat in at the restaurant. They are usually out and about and only come back to the Hotel very late at night.
Breakfast is included so you can and should eat properly before leaving in the morning!
They have beautiful decorations where you can take pictures and videos and overall very quiet and relaxing, you can barely hear any noise coming from outside.
They have soap and lotion in the bathroom (bring your own toothpaste, conditioner, and shampoo).
Hotel Element in Amsterdam
I have to say that this hotel beats the first one but obviously, it's also a little bit more expensive.
You will get all the amenities in the room, sink, dishwasher, dinner table, fridge, I mean you name it!
When I travel to Amsterdam again I will definitely stay there.
Beautiful indoor and outdoor decoration, there is a place to sit in every corner.
They also only offer breakfast, no lunch, and dinner but again you can order in.
What to see in Amsterdam
Adam Lookout Tower
The whole building is a luxurious experience, from the elevator to the top.
On any given day and weather, you can have a beautiful view over Amsterdam and all that the city offers from the Top floor of Adam Lookout Tower.
They have a 3D virtual headset for you to try and the highest swing in Europe. The Swing ticket is 6 euros and the Virtual Headset ticket is 5 euros. They are not interchangeable meaning if you change your mind and no longer want to go on the swing you cannot use that ticket for the Virtual headset.
Bear in mind that the weather in Amsterdam usually is windy and wet so you may also not find great conditions to go on the swing. The swing is open regardless so it depends on your preference - If you change your mind and no longer want to go on the swing you cannot modify the date or get a refund.
The best thing will be to get your entrance ticket online and the rest you can buy there depending on the weather.
Try the Panorama restaurant they have! It's mind-blowing! You can have your lunch or dinner or even just a few drinks while the whole level is spinning around Amsterdam city.
Overall a great experience.
City Canal Cruise
What is the point of going to Amsterdam if you don't go on a city canal cruise? The whole city is surrounded by water, you can have the most beautiful views through the cruise. There are endless options for your canal cruise.
Do you want to have a dinner with it? or Lunch? Open boat? Close boat? Private boat or group boat?
Choose and enjoy your city canal cruise!
Wonder Bar (Shisha Bar)
Do you fancy doing Shisha?
Try this place, their shisha flavors are really good at a reasonable price! When you feel hungry they also serve tasty food! I personally enjoyed their Chocolate Milkshake! every sip had lots of flavor!
In case you don't want to go to this one they have lots of other places where you can do shisha. But We really liked this place so we kept going to him! The place wasn't too crowded like the other ones and it felt more comfortable.
Convenience Shops / Corner Shops / Coffee shops
I live in London and my idea of a corner shop is - they sell food, some clothing, some cleaning and hygiene stuff, and some random all-rounder all-year needed stuff like cables and batteries. Now when you go to Amsterdam they take the corner shop's definition to a whole new level!
You can buy all of the above-mentioned plus drugs and weed, and everything Illegal you can think of.
Don't be scared and try away is my recommendation! You're not a druggie obviously but if you go to Amsterdam you should try it out responsibly to find a new YOU!
If you're unsure about what to try ask the sales guy, they are very friendly and understanding.
Just by looking at you, they will be able to tell what you should buy and what you will enjoy trying!! Trust me, you will thank me later.
Red Light City
A red-light district or pleasure district is a part of an urban area where a concentration of prostitution and sex-oriented businesses, such as sex shops, strip clubs, and adult theaters, are found.
That is why boys usually go to Amsterdam for their Stags!!!
Things to know: When you go to Red Light City the ladies standing at the windows in their lingerie don't appreciate at all people taking pictures or videos. They are proud of what they do and they are doing a job.
If you want to see them closely or talk to them you have to go inside and pay. Otherwise, you can keep walking.
Some of the women look exactly like Barbies, very pretty I must say! It's not an easy job for sure but they do it for a living and it has to be respected.
Sex shops and sex shows are all around if you want some entertainment. Depending on the shops you go you are able to find some interesting stuff to buy at a reasonable price.
It's good to see how people there manage to have two completely different realities in the same country.
You will find lots of tourist videos and audio guides to buy online to know more about the Red Light City while you are walking or even see groups of people with a paid guide explaining but in my opinion you can research or watch videos on YouTube before you make your way there.
I enjoyed having my own time and space to explore and it was free.
Heineken Museum
Ever Hear about the Heineken Museum?
I read a lot of different articles and reviews before making my way there. I must say it was totally worth it and I am not even a beer fan.
Although you have someone who will be there to guide you throughout your visit you get your own time and space to explore everything and have different experiences.
You will see how beer is brewed and even try it fresh!
If you want to have more you can always buy. It was totally worth my time.
Anne Frank House
The saddest part of our trip to Amsterdam has to be visiting Anne Frank House, I knew what I was getting into when I bought my ticket but I wanted to experience it Anyway! What's happiness without a little sadness?
Warning: Please buy your tickets 1 month ahead of your visit. If not the chances of you getting a ticket are slim to none! They always have thousands of people visiting the Museum every day and it's always sold out.
Every first Tuesday of the month, all tickets for the following month become available.
You can buy your tickets here: Anne Frank House Tickets
Before Covid, they used to let more people in at a time but it's no longer possible.
In case you missed the deadline to buy your tickets the next best option is to go to their website first thing in the morning on the day you want to go - sometimes some tickets are available because of cancellations or other circumstances and if you're lucky enough you can get them!!
I would love to tell you everything I heard and saw there, I would love to tell you how I felt but I don't want to spoil it for you. I highly recommend you go there yourself. It's a once in a lifetime visit for most people and I assure you; that you will learn a lot with this visit.
If you haven't read the "Anne Frank Diaries" then that is something I would also recommend you to do - there is a lot of information on Google too if you don't fancy reading books and it will give you a good understanding of history.
There is two different kind of visits sold for the Anne Frank Museum
The first one is the walk around Anne Frank's house with a guide that gives you the full story of what and how everything happened. But there is no entrance to the house itself.
And the second one as I already mentioned is the entrance to the House, you will see old furniture and belongings of the family. Everything has been maintained to the best of the ability of the museum.
It depends on your preference which one you would like to experience if not both.
Please note they do not offer reschedules of the tickets or refunds.
5D Flight Experience
No matter if you are going to Amsterdam for 2 days or 3. As long as you have time, do include in your visit the "5D flight Experience - This is Holland" I think you will have everything covered from the History of Holland to the Present Day! It's actually very educational and at the same time, it's fun!
I don't want to give too much away but you are going to enjoy the ride! Do not visit if you have epilepsy - there were a few people who had to leave in the middle and we had to restart the program all over again.
When your session has ended, you will see virtual projects of how People in Holland have created Holland.
I would definitely enjoy going here a few more times!!
The Upside Down
Who doesn't love pictures? Professional pictures?
We took most of our pictures in this place. It is the most Instagrammable and fun place to take pictures that I have been to.
There is something for all ages and preferences, there are more than 40 backgrounds to choose from, you can choose a few from these 40+ sets or you can have all of them. It only depends on your patience and time.
You pay for the entrance ticket but that's really it, all the pictures taken inside are free for you to download at the end of the day. You will receive a barcode and you can access it at night where all your pictures will be available for you - you also have the option to print them at their printer but you need to pay.
We were really lucky to have most places empty for us to take pictures and spend as much time as we wanted there - But trust me this place is a dream for photographers and photo enthusiasts.
Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is a neighborhood in the Dutch town of Zaandam, near Amsterdam. Historic windmills and distinctive green wooden houses were relocated here to recreate the look of an 18th/19th-century village. The Zaans Museum has regional costumes, model windmills, and interactive exhibits on chocolate making. Artisan workshops demonstrate rare handicrafts such as wooden clog carving, barrel making, and pewter casting.
You can access these workshops through a tour guide you buy in Amsterdam - the bus will then take you to different places until you reach Zaanse Schans which is the last stop. Or you can also drive yourself there - There is plenty of parking and the ticket for the demonstration of the windmills is 5 euros only.
I would say it's a historic place to see especially when they have taken really good care of their heritage.
There are always tourists there taking pictures of the windmills and the surrounding area.
Edam
When you think of Edam, you often think of cheese first. But Edam is more than just cheese. In this authentic village on IJsselmeer Lake, you will also find pleasant shopping streets and cozy terraces at less than half an hour from Amsterdam.
You will start noticing more and more houses without curtains on their windows. And there is a reason for it, some people believe in equality and want to show that there is no difference between a man being naked inside the house or a woman. They are called the protestants.
Marken - Wooden Shoe Factory
By now you must have noticed that every shop sells those wooden shoes as souvenirs or they are a piece of decoration.
When you go to Marken you can see a demonstration of How they used to make wooden shoes back in the day. And the person presenting must be wearing the wooden shoes too!
In this century where we are so comfortable wearing Nike, I don't believe they are that comfortable but they are said to fix your back and your posture - make sure to buy a pair of wooden shoes where you leave a finger space - it's needed to give you the necessary space to be able to walk!
If you don't want to buy a pair for yourself you can also just buy a souvenir.
Volendam (Cheese Factory, fishing village)
Cheese is the way to go! Cheese Gouda! - It's pronounced as "Rouda" not "Gouda"!
Gouda cheese is shipped worldwide for all consumers and lovers of cheese...me included! So i was very curious to know how they make this splendid cheese!
The experience of going for the demonstration and trying different kinds of cheese was liberating. It's impossible for you to leave the shop without buying anything.
Even if you don't buy anything it's a well worth visit.
Ice Bar in Amsterdam
There are Ice Bars in Various locations and I have been to the Ice Bar in the UK so this one is optional in case you haven't been to one and would like to take the opportunity to visit the Ice Bar while on Holiday!
Nothing better than visiting things for the first time eh?
They will give you a super warm coat and gloves for your visit and 2 drinks included in the price of the entrance ticket. You can buy more drinks if you wish.
Van Goh Museum
Vincent Willem van Gogh was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who posthumously became one of the most famous and influential figures in Western art history. In a decade, he created about 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings, most of which date from the last two years of his life.
Hundreds of people visit the museum every day and the tickets can be bought at the door.
Madame Tussauds
It was founded by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud in 1835. It used to be spelled as "Madame Tussaud's"; the apostrophe is no longer used. Madame Tussauds is a major tourist attraction in London, displaying the waxworks of famous and historical figures, as well as popular film and television characters.
Perfect place to meet your dream actors and take pictures with them!!
The Avocado Show
We visited the Avocado Show Restaurant to have lunch.
I am not going to say it was the best food I ever had, but it was so tasty!!! I loved the environment, decoration, and the simplicity of it all.
Make sure you call and reserve your table, only to avoid disappointment when you reach there - sometimes they are fully booked.
Rokin, De Pjip, Central Station, Noord
You can easily go to Rokin using the underground and find lots of well-known shops and restaurants. You will find a good price on shoes and clothing especially if you live in the UK.
There is something for everyone and it's a beautiful walk overlooking the historical and crooked buildings of Holland.
De Pjip, Noord and Central Station are all on the same underground line so when you have some free hours you can go visit them all, you will find different activities in different areas, Central Station being the busiest of them all.
The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands dedicated to Dutch arts and history and is located in Amsterdam. The museum is located at the Museum Square in the borough of Amsterdam South, close to the Van Gogh Museum.
The museum has on display 8,000 objects of art and history, from their total collection of 1 million objects from the years 1200–2000, among which are some masterpieces by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer. The museum also has a small Asian collection, which is on display in the Asian pavilion
Best time to visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam, according to locals, often falls between late spring and early fall. The period from April to September offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the city.
In April and May, the city blooms with vibrant tulips and the famous Keukenhof Gardens are in full splendour. The weather is generally mild, making it a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and stroll along the canals.
Summer, from June to August, sees the warmest temperatures and the longest daylight hours, providing ideal conditions for exploring the city and taking in its numerous outdoor festivals and events.
September is also a local favorite. The weather remains comfortable, and the summer crowds begin to dwindle, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the city's attractions.
It's worth noting that if you travel to Amsterdam anywhere between October to March the weather is quite chilly and it tends to rain a lot with mild to heavy winds.
Do pack layers and prepare yourself for some cold days.
Rent a car in Amsterdam
We use Skyscanner to book our cars anywhere we go. They are very reliable and the booking process is pretty simple.
Documents you will need to rent a car:
Driving License: A valid driver's license is a must. If you're an international traveler, your domestic license might be accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended and sometimes required.
Identification: Your passport or a government-issued ID for identification purposes.
Credit Card: Car rental companies generally require a credit card for security purposes. They'll place a hold on your card as a deposit against any damages or additional charges.
Age Requirements: Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you're under 25, there might be additional fees or restrictions.
Reservation Details: Have your rental confirmation details handy, either a printed copy or available on your phone.
It's always wise to check the specific requirements of the car rental company you're planning to use, as these might vary slightly among different agencies.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
Here is a list of types of accommodation that you can choose from:
In Amsterdam, you'll find a diverse range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets:
1. Hotels:Ranging from boutique hotels to internationally recognised chains, Amsterdam offers a wide array of accommodation options.
2. Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): Quaint, often family-run establishments that offer a more personalised and cozy experience.
3.Hostels:Ideal for budget travellers, hostels provide dormitory-style accommodations and sometimes private rooms, with communal spaces for socialising.
4.Vacation Rentals/Apartments:Numerous apartments and vacation rentals are available for short-term stays, offering a more local experience.
5. Guesthouses: Similar to B&Bs, guesthouses offer a more intimate atmosphere and a smaller number of rooms.
6. Luxury Resorts: For those seeking high-end comfort and services, there are luxurious resorts in and around Amsterdam.
7. Campsites: Perfect for those who enjoy camping, there are campsites near the city where you can enjoy a mix of nature and urban exploration.
8. Houseboats: A quintessentially Dutch experience, renting a houseboat allows for a unique stay on Amsterdam's picturesque canals.
9. Aparthotels: Combining the conveniences of a hotel with the amenities of an apartment, these are ideal for longer stays.
10. Botels: Floating hotels that offer an intriguing experience on the water.
Each type of accommodation offers a different experience, so choosing one depends on your preferences, budget, and the kind of stay you're seeking in Amsterdam.
Do you need a Visa?
As part of the Schengen Area, Amsterdam, and the rest of the Netherlands, follow Schengen visa policies. If you're from a country outside the EU or EFTA, you'll typically need a Schengen visa to visit Amsterdam.
The Schengen visa allows entry to the Netherlands and the other Schengen countries for a duration of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. To apply for the visa, you'll usually need a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, financial means to support your stay, and a completed application form.
Specific requirements might vary based on your country of origin, so it's advisable to check with the Dutch consulate or embassy in your home country for the most accurate and updated information before planning your trip to Amsterdam.
A ready made-itinerary for 3 days
Day 1: Immerse in Culture and Canals - Start your day with a visit to the iconic Anne Frank House, exploring the powerful history within its walls.
- Continue to the Van Gogh Museum, where you can admire the vibrant works of the legendary artist.
- Take a leisurely canal cruise, soaking in the picturesque scenery and charming architecture. - Wander through the historic Jordaan district, known for its quaint streets, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafes.
- End the day with a visit to the lively Leidseplein Square, where you can enjoy live music, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Dutch cuisine.
Day 2: Discover History and Delights - Begin your day at the Rijksmuseum, home to a vast collection of Dutch masterpieces, including Rembrandt's "The Night Watch."
- Explore the enchanting neighbourhood of Jordaan, with its narrow streets, charming courtyards, and lively markets like Noordermarkt.
- Visit the poignant and informative Anne Frank House, gaining a deeper understanding of the city's history during World War II.
- Indulge in a traditional Dutch pancake lunch at Pancakes Amsterdam, savoring both sweet and savory options.
- Spend the evening wandering through the vibrant streets of the Red Light District, experiencing the unique atmosphere and diverse nightlife.
Day 3: Parks and Hidden Gems - Start your day with a visit to the peaceful Vondelpark, Amsterdam's largest city park, perfect for a morning stroll or picnic.
- Explore the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, known for its vibrant food scene, local markets like Albert Cuypmarkt, and the Heineken Experience.
- Discover the hidden gem of Begijnhof, a serene courtyard surrounded by historic houses and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Visit the fascinating Amsterdam Museum, delving into the city's rich history and culture.
- End your trip with a relaxing boat tour on the lesser-known canals of Amsterdam, away from the busy tourist areas, to experience the city from a different perspective.
Remember, Amsterdam has so much to offer, and this itinerary only scratches the surface. Don't forget to embrace the city's biking culture, try local delicacies such as stroopwafels and herring, and take the time to simply wander through the charming streets, allowing yourself to get lost and discover new surprises along the way. Enjoy your trip to this enchanting city!
FAQ
What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?
Is the I Amsterdam City Card worth it?
Can I drink tap water in Amsterdam?
What's the best way to get around Amsterdam?
Do I need to book Anne Frank House tickets in advance?
Is cycling a good way to explore Amsterdam?
What's the best time to visit the Keukenhof Gardens?
Are credit cards widely accepted in Amsterdam?
Is it necessary to tip in restaurants in Amsterdam?
What's the legal drinking age in Amsterdam?
Are there any cultural customs or etiquette to be aware of in Amsterdam?
Is Amsterdam a safe city for tourists?
What's the local cuisine in Amsterdam?
Are there any discount cards for tourists in Amsterdam?
Is the Red Light District safe for tourists?
What are the top shopping districts in Amsterdam?
What's the average cost of dining out in Amsterdam?
Comments