Amsterdam has become one of my favorite cities in Europe. For a long time, it was a place that I didn’t know much about, but one that has always intrigued me. Eventually, the more I traveled, the more people kept telling me,“you HAVE to visit Amsterdam.” I’ll admit, I wasn’t hard to convince. Tell me a city is a biking city and I’ll come running.
If Amsterdam is also on your bucket list, I have created the perfect 3-day Amsterdam itinerary so you can see the best of the city. At the end, there is a section of free-time suggestions, day trips, and more tips on visiting.
My Overall Impression of Amsterdam
Ready for the plot twist? Although Amsterdam is one of my favorite European cities now, it actually took me a couple days to warm up to it. I’ll put it this way: Amsterdam was like that boy who used to flirt with me forever and who I constantly rejected…only to fall in love with him at the end of the story. As someone who gravitates towards things like romantic Parisian cafes and whimsical string lights in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, the vibe of this city just wasn’t hitting for me right away.
Of course, there WERE things I really liked…such as the architecture and the canal waterways. I loved walking along the canals and taking in the rows of narrow, sometimes slanted buildings that give Amsterdam its distinct character. Most of the buildings had the same flat facade, but the different designs on the roofs gave each of them their own sense of personality. Many times, houses seemed like they were sitting right on top of the water!
Still, during most of my first trip, I wasn’t sure if Amsterdam was a city I would need to go back to. I loved my time there and was SO glad I went, but I didn’t have that “3 drinks in and I’m moving here” feeling that certain other cities have given me.
But my last day, I became smitten. I met some amazing locals, biked to new places I hadn’t been, did a canal cruise, and really took the time to stop and notice things along the way. I saw the bridges and the city lit up after sunset and it was just…different. That night, Amsterdam gave me a wry smile and said, “you know you love me,” and I grinned right back and said, “you’re right.” Fast forward 3 years later, and I returned to Amsterdam during tulip season only to fall in love with the city all over again. Now, I’ve combined my adventures from both trips into this itinerary in hopes that Amsterdam steals your heart too.
Day 1: Bike the City, Dam Square, Amsterdam Centraal, Dutch Apple Pie, and The Glowing Bridges
Rent a Bike and Ride Through the City
Let’s face it: if you wanna be one of the cool girls (or guys) in Amsterdam, you need to rent a bike. I love doing things that make me feel like a local when I travel, and in Amsterdam, nothing makes you fit in faster than biking through the city. Bikes are the main form of transportation for everybody here!
Seriously though, biking through the city was my absolute favorite thing I did in Amsterdam. I somehow felt like a carefree kid and a grown-up European city girl, all at the same time. Plus, I was able to see so many more things in the city because I could get around so much quicker. (And, it’s cheaper than Uber!)
My first time in Amsterdam, I rented my bike through Black Bikes and would absolutely recommend them. They have locations everywhere in the city, and you’re able to drop your bike off at a different location than you picked it up at if necessary. They also do a great job at explaining bike etiquette and giving you helpful tips, such as where to park your bike. Their bikes come with bike straps and locks, and they walk you through how to use them before you leave. Of note, you’re also able to rent bikes at certain hotels in Amsterdam.
- Pro Tip: You’ll see bikes everywhere here, and many of them look exactly the same. I used the Parking Feature on Google Maps to help me remember where I parked my bike.
A word of caution: locals ride their bikes the way that city people drive on insanely busy interstates in the United States. It’s impressive and intimidating, all at the same time. That is to say, always watch for bikers. I would even see cars and pedestrians yield to bikers here more often than not!
Explore Dam Square
I stumbled upon Dam Square by accident as I was biking through the city. Dam Square is the main city square in Amsterdam, and is home to a lot of famous buildings and popular events. Buildings you’ll see here include the Royal Palace, the National Monument, De Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and De Bijenkorf, a shopping center. You’ll also find the Ripley Museum and Madame Tussauds here too.
Of note – you’ll find a mix of Gothic, Neoclassical, and Dutch architecture in Dam Square.
TBH, I don’t think Dam Square is overly aesthetic compared to a lot of other city squares I’ve seen in Europe. It’s worth walking through though (and if you like shopping, definitely go into De Bijenkorf), but I didn’t feel the need to spend a ton of time here. It’s a very busy area and very touristy. There were so many people hanging out in Dam Square when I went that I got off my bike and wandered around on foot for a bit. Speaking of bikes, I felt a bit nervous biking through this area because people were coming at me from every direction!
Walk Through Amsterdam Centraal Station
Amsterdam Centraal Station is the main hub for trains and buses – and of course, the metro system runs through here as well. IMO, Amsterdam Centraal is one of the most beautiful train stations I’ve seen in Europe. When possible, I tried to orient myself to the Centraal Station since it’s a very large, recognizable landmark. Of note, Amsterdaam Central is about an 11 minute walk (or 4 minute bike ride) from Dam Square.
Inside Centraal Station, you’ll find a ton of shops, convenience stores, and places to grab a quick bite. Be sure to walk through here and take it all in. When you exit one side of the Centraal Station, you will see the IJ River and Noord across the water. To get to the main part of the city, you’ll exit through the opposite direction.
Riding the Ferry to Noord
While you’re near this part of town, I would highly encourage riding the (free!) ferry across the IJ River into Noord (north). I did this during sunset, and was able to capture this photo:
Although I didn’t spend a ton of time in Noord, I’ve been told it’s a cool area to explore. One of the things worth seeing here is a large Anne Frank mural on a building in NDSM-Plein, on the corner of NDSMstraat and Ms. van Riemsdijkweg. The words “let me be myself,” are written at the top.
Indulge in Authentic Dutch Apple Pie
Apple pie (or appeltaart) is arguably the most popular Dutch dessert. It differs from the American version in that it is baked in a deeper pan, so it has a much larger volume of filling. Winkel 43 is reported to have the best apple pie in the city, and I finally got to try it during my 2nd trip to Amsterdam.
Overall, I’d rate it a 4 out of 5. My only caveat was that it’s served at room temperature, and I was expecting it to be warm. But the flavor, filling, and crust were incredible!
- Pro Tip: Winkel 43 does not accept reservations. The inside of the restaurant is small, but there is outside seating and also a waiting area for takeaway orders. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during high tourist season!
See The Bridges Glow At Night
By now, you’ve likely ridden your bike over numerous bridges in Amsterdam, but did you know they light many of them up at night? Aside from riding a bike, my other favorite thing to do in Amsterdam is walk around at night and bask in the ambiance of the bridges. One of my favorites is Magere Brug (aka Skinny Bridge).
The entire area around Skinny Bridge is beautiful, and I would highly advise walking around here and taking it all in. The waterway here is much wider than some of the canals, giving you a great view of houses, string lights, house boats, and smaller bridges all lit up with their lights dancing on the water. It’s truly magical. In fact, my first time in Amsterdam, stumbling upon this area really convinced me I needed to come back and explore more of this city. I didn’t find Skinny Bridge until the last night of my first trip, so I wanted to make sure I told you about it up front. You’re welcome 😘.
Day 2: Anne Frank House, Jordaan, De 9 Straatjes, Stroopwafels, and The Red Light District
Tour the Anne Frank House
Visiting the Anne Frank House is an absolute must-do in Amsterdam. Walking through the annex where Anne and her family spent the last years of their lives is one of the most emotional, humbling experiences you will ever have.
If you read Diary of a Young Girl, you know that the entrance to the secret annex was hidden behind a bookcase. The original bookcase is still in the house, along with various other items that the Frank family had used. At the end, you get to see Anne’s actual diary along with some of her other writing preserved under glass.
Which House is the Anne Frank House?
When you arrive at the Anne Frank House (aka the Anne Frank Museum), the entrance is located on the right side of the building across from a pancake shop. The entrance to the museum is clearly not the same entrance that the warehouse workers used when the Frank family was in hiding, so you may be wondering which house it is exactly?
The Anne Frank house is the one with the arrow below. When you’re standing across the water, it’s unfortunately hidden by a tree. However, if you walk up to the buildings, there will be a white sign reading “Anne Frank Huis” beside the door.
How to Get Tickets to the Anne Frank House
Tickets to the Anne Frank House can ONLY be purchased through the official Anne Frank House website. You will find tours on Get Your Guide and Viator that mention Anne Frank, but know that this is a historical tour, NOT the tour of her family’s annex.
The Anne Frank House is a small museum and sells a limited number of tickets for each day. Tickets go on sale every Tuesday at 10:00am for a visit 6 weeks out. I strongly advise setting an alarm on your phone and purchasing your Anne Frank tickets as soon as they become available. If not, you risk them being sold out (and trust me, they sell out fast). You have the option to purchase basic ticket, or an upgraded ticket with a 30 minute introductory program.
- Pro Tip: If you find that tickets are unavailable, I have a post about how to get Anne Frank tickets even when they’re sold out.
Jordaan – For Vintage Shops, Authentic Pubs, and Noordermarkt
The Anne Frank House is located in the Jordaan neighborhood, so it only makes sense to explore this area afterwards. Jordaan has a lot of vintage and antique shops. cafes and pubs, and beautiful canal views.
If flea markets are your vibe, be sure to check out Noordermarkt, open Mondays and Saturdays. You will find tents full of buyers and sellers, and there’s everything from jewelry and clothes to art.
De 9 Straatjes – For Boutiques, Stroopwafels, House Boats, and More
De 9 Straatjes – literally translating to “the 9 streets” – is one of the best shopping sections in Amsterdam and my personal favorite neighborhood to explore. It’s located next to Jordaan and is made up of a 3×3 grid of streets separated by 4 canals: Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. In addition to shops, you’ll find cute alleys, picturesque canals, and trendy cafes.
Try a Dutch Stroopwafel in De 9 Straatjes
Stroopwafels are another famous Dutch dessert. They’re made up of 2 thin, crispy baked waffle cookies with a caramel syrup filling. Two famous stroopwafel shops near De 9 Straatjes are Landskroon Bakery and Hans Egstorf. Having tried both places, you really can’t go wrong. If you end up trying both, tell me your favorite in the comments!
Tour a House Boat
IMO, one of the coolest things about Amsterdam are all the house boats you see docked along the water throughout the city…and yes, people actually live in them! If you’ve ever wondered what one looks like inside, you’re able to tour a house boat in De 9 Straatjes to see how the cool people live. I did this during my last trip to Amsterdam, and I thought it was really interesting. The bedrooms were small, but the inside was more spacious than I was expecting. If you want to take it a step further, click here to book a stay in a house boat.
Note – this is NOT the one in De 9 Straatjes
Walk Through The Red Light District
Now that you’ve biked through the city, toured the Anne Frank house, and eaten your first stroopwafel, is there any better way to end your second night than walking through the infamous Red Light District?
- Pro Tip: If you’re extra intrigued by this area, check out this guided Red Light District tour.
The Red Light District is comprised of two streets separated by a canal in the de Wallen neighborhood near Centraal Station. Full disclosure: this area can be pretty wild. You can walk through it any time of the day, but IMO, you need to see it at night to experience it at peak level. If your first thought was “that sounds a bit dangerous,” I initially thought the same thing…but there are people everywhere and I didn’t feel frightened at all.
You may be wondering if the RLD is as scandalous as it’s cracked up to be. I don’t want to spoil all the surprises, but do know that throughout this area, you’ll find multiple bars, neon lights, sex shops, and, umm…live performance venues. 👀 And yes — the glowing red windows you’ve probably heard about are very much a real thing.
- Pro Tip: You’ve probably already guessed, but just in case, it is strictly forbidden to photograph the sex workers.
The Museum of Prostitution in the Red Light District
If you’re from a country where sex work isn’t legal, you may find yourself naturally curious about how the industry operates in Amsterdam. The RLD figured this out, which is why there are also a couple museums, such as the Museum of Prostitution, on this street! You can go in and learn about the history of this type of work, listen to stories, see staged rooms, and more.
Day 3: Van Gogh Museum, Heineken Brewery Tour, Canal Cruise
Okay, I’ve given you a LOT to explore the past 2 days! On our 3rd and final day in Amsterdam, we’re slowing it down a bit by touring 2 museums and taking in the views from the water. I’ll also give you some free time suggestions after this section.
Tour the Van Gogh Museum
Full confession: I’m not typically a museum girl. But…it’s Van Gogh. How can you NOT?!
I was surprised by how much I loved walking through this museum. It told the story of Van Gogh’s early life, how he didn’t even start to become a painter until age 27, and his tragic battle with mental illness which ultimately led to his death. In addition to his work, you are also able to see paintings from people who inspired him and that he worked with.
As a Creator, if I could sum up my visit in one word, I would definitely say inspired. It was fascinating to learn how Van Gogh saw things differently than others of his time, how he trusted his instinct, and how he immersed himself in different cities, cultures, and techniques to learn and excel at what he did.
Ultimately, the fact that he did not even start until he was 27 and became one of the greatest of all time proves that it’s never too late to do anything! You can use this link to book your Van Gogh museum tour!
- Pro Tip: If you’re hoping to see Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night painting, it isn’t located here – it’s in the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. I can’t lie, I was slightly heartbroken!
Visit the Heineken Brewery Museum
Just down the street from the Van Gogh museum, you will find the Heineken Brewery museum! Wait, didn’t I just say I wasn’t a museum person? Safe to say, this city made me eat my words.
When you visit Amsterdam, you have to pay homage to Heineken, the beer that was started here and made famous all over the world. On one hand, you could simply go to any bar in the city and order a glass, but I’m going to peer pressure you into touring the Heineken Brewery Museum. During this tour, you are able to go through different rooms and read the story about how Heineken began, see the different ingredients come to life in the brewing process, and view some of the brew kettles.
At the beginning of the tour, they give you a bracelet with two tokens for free beers, which you can redeem at the Heineken bar after the tour is over. Naturally, the tour ends with a group toast, where everyone raises their glass and yells “Prost!” together.
- Pro Tip: You are even able to engrave your own Heineken bottle (for a fee!) and take home with you as a souvenir.
Seriously – this tour is SO worth it. The Heineken Bar at the end is illuminated with green lights and has such a fun atmosphere. I met a lot of cool people there and honestly could have hung out forever. I don’t want to spoil the aesthetic surprise, so I’ll just leave you with this little sneak peek of the bar below:
Take a Canal Cruise
Did we save the best for last? I’m thinking yes. You literally cannot go to Amsterdam without doing a canal cruise. It’s a rite of passage and one of the most authentic ways to experience the city. When I came to Amsterdam, I did a Heineken Brewery/canal cruise combo option, but they have since discontinued the specific tour that I did. Instead, I’ll highlight some top-rated options that range from basic cruises to more elevated options with food, wine, and more:
- Fun Fact: When you go to Amsterdam, you will notice the unique architecture of the houses and how many of them have skinnier facades and then are longer in the back. I learned on my canal cruise that back in the day, residents would get taxed on how wide their house was, so they shortened the width in the front!
Amsterdam Free Time Suggestions
If you find yourself with some free time and want to explore more of Amsterdam, these are things I suggest:
Visit Some of Amsterdam’s Other Museums
Aside from Van Gogh and the Heineken Brewery, two of Amsterdam’s other popular museums include Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum. Both of these museums are located in Museumplein (the same area as the Van Gogh museum). Museumplein is the largest square of Amsterdam and is really cute to explore and bike through.
I have not toured either one of these museums, so I can’t give you my personal recap, but I can break down what they offer so you can decide which one you’d like best:
- Rijksmuseum is home to an extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, featuring works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. There is also a large park near here that you can hang out and people watch.
- Stedelijk is known more for its modern and contemporary art collection, featuring works by influential artists such as Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, and Andy Warhol.
Explore More of Amsterdam’s Cultural Food Scene
We’ve already tried Dutch apple pie and stroopwafels, but why stop there? While exploring Amsterdam, you’ll also come across plenty of places to try authentic Dutch pancakes, along with various cheese shops.
Dutch pancakes are much thinner and larger than the fluffy American-style ones we’re used to, and they’re topped with everything from powdered sugar and fruit to cheese and bacon. During my first trip to Amsterdam, I had a homemade apple crumble pancake from PANCAKES Amsterdam Centraal, and let’s just say I’d book a flight solely to get another one.
As for the cheese, well…there’s a reason you’ll see cheese shops on practically every corner. If you have some free time in your itinerary, this is your sign to wander into one, sample a few kinds, and choose your favorite to bring home.
- Pro Tip: The 2 most popular types of cheese in Amsterdam are gouda and edam cheese.
Eat Dinner in an Authentic Dutch Restaurant
During your trip, I highly recommend spending an evening at an authentic Dutch restaurant. These places will usually have a “old-world tavern” vibe: think dark wooden interiors, glowing candlelight, and tiny tables. While it’s normally not my go-to aesthetic, I love how cozy and intimate these restaurants feel after a long day of exploring. Add in the canals outside and a local beer in hand, and there’s truly nothing better!
One of my favorite authentic spots is Proeflokaal Arendsnest – a local tavern that only serves Dutch beer.
Day Trips That I Took (and Loved!) from Amsterdam
If you have time (and, come during the right season!), here are 2 day trips that I recommend from Amsterdam:
Plan Your Trip Around Tulip Season: Explore Keukenhof Gardens and the Bollenstreek Region
I’m pretty sure that experiencing an authentic Dutch tulip season has forever altered my brain chemistry. The colors, the flowers, the rows and rows of tulip fields….I CAN’T EVEN!!! To this day, it remains one of my most magical trips. Seeing the tulip gardens and biking through rows of tulip fields is a core memory that I will cherish forever. To plan your Dutch tulip season adventure, check out Where to Find The Best Tulip Fields Near Amsterdam: Netherlands Tulip Season Guide.
Take a Guided Tour to Giethoorn Village
Giethoorn Village is a car-free village about an hour and 20 minutes northeast of Amsterdam that feels like an actual fairytale. It has been nicknamed “Venice of the North” thanks to it’s narrow canals, and the thatched-roof cottages, overgrown gardens, and romantic footbridges only add to its charm. I took this guided tour from Amsterdam to Giethoorn and loved it. To read my full recap, check out The Perfect Day in Giethoorn Village: Best Things To Do & See.
The Best Way to Get Around Amsterdam
Like I previously mentioned, if you’re brave enough to bike the city, that is the route I would go. I LOVED biking here. If not, my recommendation would be to either walk or take the metro. You should be able to get most places you want to go in the city without having to Uber, but know this is also an option as well.
One thing I did want to point out was that I felt like Amsterdam was extremely hard to navigate. Being good with directions is something I was never inherently good at, but I’ll admit I’ve gotten a lot better after becoming a solo traveler.
But PHEW I thought Amsterdam was hard. I don’t know if it was because all the buildings and architecture look so different that it’s hard to commit any one of them to memory to use as a landmark? No street signs that really stood out? I don’t think I would have had as much anxiety about this if I didn’t have to remember where I parked my bike. Remember to use the Parking Feature on Google Maps!
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
I almost always stay in a 3/4/5 star hotel or AirBNB when I go on trips, but Amsterdam is one of the few cities where I have stayed in a hostel. THIS HO(S)TEL is conveniently located near Amsterdam Centraal, and the best part is you have a room to yourself. Don’t get me wrong, the rooms are tiny AF – but if they can fit my massive suitcase, you’ll be just fine. I would recommend this option for solo travelers who want to save money on their trip.
- Pro Tip: You do have to share a bathroom with everyone on your floor, aka girls and guys will be using the same bathroom. Thankfully, there are about 6 toilets and 4 showers, so I didn’t run into any issues.
My 2nd time in Amsterdam, I stayed in The Social Hub Amsterdam City and absolutely loved it. It was a little further out of the city center, but the rooms were amazing, and you were able to rent a bike right at the hotel. They also had an incredible restaurant, bar, and coffee bar. There’s even a community working space, making this a great option for remote workers who are doing an extended stay in Amsterdam.
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Loved this. Thank you!
Yay!! So happy you found it helpful 🙂
Thank Gina, have a solo trip planned and found the information really useful. Appreciated.
Hi Govind! I’m so happy you found this post useful! Be safe and have a great time on your trip! 🙂 -Gina
Great practical info … my second trip to Amsterdam, can’t wait, thanks.
Yay!! Thank you so much 🙂 I hope you have a great time! -Gina
Thanks Gina! Leave for my very first solo trip in less than a week to Amsterdam, kind of nervous but this post is making me so excited to go!
Hi Kathryn! I’m so happy and excited for you! My first solo trip was the best thing I ever did…I hope yours turns out the same! Have the best time 🙂 – Gina
Thanks Gina. My wife and I have three full days and you just cut the fat off. I love the AirTag idea. We will bike and I’ll run in mornings so I’m
Pumped. We will enjoy the same things you’ve written about. Perfect… 🙂
Hi Brett! I’m so glad I was able to help narrow down things to do on your Amsterdam trip! I hope you have the best time! 🙂 Gina
Hi Gina –
I love all of the Amsterdam information you blogged about. So helpful! Other than the hostel you mentioned, do you have any recommendations for a hotel or perhaps a neighborhood for me to search that would be centrally located to doing all of the sightseeing on your 3-day itinerary?
Thank you!
Hi Patty! I’m so glad you found my post helpful! I would search for hotels near Amsterdam Centraal…that is the train station and will put you in a great location. I did a quick search and 2 places that had great reviews were Amsterdam Central Guest House and SeventyFive. Anything in that area will be good. I hope you have a great trip! <3 Gina
I’ll check it out! Thank you!