2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary (Perfect Guide + Map)

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In this 2-day Amsterdam itinerary, you’ll find all the must-see landmarks and tourist attractions, along with a few hidden gems I discovered during my week there. I’ll also tell you exactly how to book tickets for the Anne Frank House, since it usually sells out within an hour!

I’ve included some great bakeries and brunch spots (local favourites, not the overhyped social media places), plus the best spots to try Amsterdam’s famous fries. You’ll also find where to shop for real Dutch cheese and how to avoid the tourist traps. Let’s get started!

For me, two days in Amsterdam are just enough to see the city’s main highlights and even fit in a canal cruise. That said, I’d really recommend adding an extra day or two for day trips to Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof (if you’re visiting in spring). Both are absolutely gorgeous, and I’ve shared everything you need to know about what to see and how to get there right after the 2-day itinerary.

💖 My favourite hotel in Amsterdam: Ambassade Hotel
⭐ Rating: 9.2 | 880+ reviews
Location: right on the Herengracht canal, walkable to everything
What I loved: quiet boutique rooms, great wine bar with canal views
Check details & availability: Booking.com | Expedia

Amsterdam had been on my list for years, but it still took me quite a while to finally make it there. I actually postponed the trip twice. The reason was simple – other destinations always seemed a bit more exciting at the time, so Amsterdam kept getting pushed down the list.

To be honest, I wasn’t expecting too much. The city’s reputation for its Red Light District and coffee shops (not to be confused with actual cafés) had definitely shaped my expectations. But I couldn’t have been more wrong. Amsterdam is so much more than that. Picture-perfect canals lined with boats, beautiful narrow houses, incredible art museums, and of course, amazing food and beer. It completely won me over. Now I can’t wait to go back, especially during tulip season, when the whole city is simply gorgeous.

Amsterdam Tourist Map + PDF

Here’s an interactive tourist map of this 2-day Amsterdam itinerary, complete with attractions, hotels and restaurant links. You can also download a PDF version of the itinerary.

2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary – Day 1

If there’s one thing I’d tell every first-time visitor, it’s this – get the Amsterdam City Card. It’s absolutely worth it if you plan to use public transport a lot and visit a few museums. The card includes unlimited travel on trams, buses, and metro (a single ticket is nearly €4), plus free entry to top attractions like the Rijksmuseum, the Rembrandt House Museum, the Heineken Experience and the windmills at Zaanse Schans. Just note that it doesn’t include the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House. You also get extras like a free canal cruise and bike rental.

Keep in mind, that for some popular spots like the Rijksmuseum and the Heineken Experience, you’ll still need to book a time slot on the official website (no extra cost, just a reservation).

Morning

Breakfast at Salvo Bakehouse

Duration: 45 min 🕒 09:00 AM – 09:45 AM

Start your first day in Amsterdam with breakfast at Salvo Bakehouse, one of my favourite bakeries in the city. Their croissants were some of the best I had on the whole trip, and honestly, I’d go back to the city just to eat here again. Definitely try the pistachio croissant, and if you’re hungry, the pulled chicken with coleslaw sandwich is so worth it, too.

They also have another spot, Salvo Basement, which is closer to the Rijksmuseum. It’s a great option for breakfast on your second day if you don’t make it here now.

Another great breakfast spot is Lourens. It’s a good option if you want something closer to the Anne Frank House (although Salvo is definitely worth the detour), or if you need an earlier start (especially if you’ve booked the first time slot there). They’re known for their croissants and their famous crookies (a mix between a buttery croissant and chocolate chip cookie dough). I’d go for the pistachio white chocolate crookie and the original – both are seriously good.

Anne Frank House

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

The Anne Frank House is one of the most visited museums in Amsterdam, and for good reason. Anne Frank was a German-born Jewish girl who became one of the most well-known voices of the Holocaust through her diary. She was born in 1929 in Frankfurt, Germany, but her family moved to Amsterdam in 1934 to escape rising Nazi persecution. At first, life in the city was pretty normal. She went to school, had friends, and lived in a regular city apartment – just like many other kids her age.

That changed during World War II, when Nazi forces occupied the Netherlands. As anti-Jewish laws became increasingly strict, Anne Frank’s family went into hiding in July 1942 in a secret annex (the Achterhuis) behind her father’s office building. This is today known as the Anne Frank House. Anne was just 13 at the time. It was there that she wrote her diary, which would later become one of the most widely read books in the world.

They stayed hidden for over two years in an incredibly small space with four other people. During that time, they relied completely on a few trusted helpers for food and news from the outside world. In 1944, the annex was discovered, and the group was arrested. Anne and her sister Margot were eventually sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany. Both died of typhus there in early 1945, just weeks before the camp was liberated. Anne was 15 years old.

Her father, Otto Frank, was the only member of the group who survived. After the war, he published Anne’s diary, which became known as The Diary of a Young Girl.

🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Anne Frank House (official website – non-refundable tickets)
Best guided tour: Anne Frank Walking Tour (no entry to the Anne Frank House) – a great alternative if you can’t get tickets, this tour brings Anne’s story to life as you explore the Jewish Quarter (over 14,000 excellent reviews)

You can choose between a regular ticket or a museum visit with an introductory program. Both include a free audioguide, but the second option also adds a 30-minute English introduction about Anne Frank. I highly recommend not skipping the audioguide – it really adds to the experience.

I first read her diary back in middle school, so visiting the Anne Frank House felt especially powerful for me. You walk through the secret bookcase entrance, climb the narrow, steep stairs, and step into the small rooms where they lived in complete silence for over two years.

How to book tickets to Anne Frank House

I’ve been travelling for years, but I’ve rarely come across a place that’s this tricky to get tickets for. You can’t buy them on-site – they’re only available online, and only through the official website (so skip GetYourGuide, Viator, and similar platforms). I was lucky enough to grab one of the first time slots, but within just 15 minutes, the tickets were almost completely sold out. Only a few very late evening slots were left.

And here’s the tricky part: tickets for visits six weeks in advance are released every Tuesday at 10 AM CEST. If you’re not fast enough, they’re gone in minutes, and there’s really nothing else you can do. There’s also no option for an expensive guided tour like at many other attractions. So planning ahead is an absolute must. Still, if you don’t manage to get tickets in time, the official website releases a small batch again every Tuesday at 10 AM CEST for the following week. Just be ready, because they disappear just as quickly.

Now, for the booking process – I really recommend logging into the official website on at least two browsers about 15–20 minutes before tickets are released. Even then, you’ll likely end up in a queue with over a thousand people ahead of you. It usually takes around 15 minutes just to get into the site, which is basically right when the tickets go live.

If you manage to get in early (a few minutes before the tickets are released), make sure to stay active on the page by browsing around. Otherwise, your session could expire. And if that happens and you need to log in again, you could be waiting another half hour. I tried it just as a test once, and the queue already had over 3,000 people. That’s why I’d strongly recommend using at least two browsers. Log in to the second one about five minutes later, just in case something goes wrong with the first one.

Stroopwafel at Hans Egstorf

Duration: 20 min 🕒 11:50 AM – 12:10 PM

Stroopwafels are a classic Dutch treat you’ll find all over Amsterdam. They consist of two thin waffle layers filled with warm caramel syrup (stroop). The outside is lightly crisp, while the inside stays soft and rich.

You’ll find them in lots of shops around the city, but if you want some of the best, I’d go to Hans Egstorf. This historic bakery dates all the way back to 1898! It is famous for its original stroopwafels, still made the traditional way by hand right in front of you. Watching them being prepared is part of the experience – and honestly, it’s half the fun.

They have several locations around the city, but the original one on Spuistraat 274 is definitely the one to go for. It’s beautifully decorated with Delft-style tiles that show the whole dough-making process.

Just keep in mind that this branch only serves the classic version with no toppings. If you want a bit more variety, the other stores have options with things like pistachios and strawberries. Of course, I had to try both the original and the pistachio and hazelnut versions – no regrets there.

For a fun, hands-on experience, I’d recommend the Original Dutch Stroopwafel Making Workshop. You’ll make stroopwafels from scratch – from rolling the dough, pressing it in the waffle iron, and then layering in that warm caramel syrup. Also, you get to learn a bit about the history of stroopwafels and, of course, eat your own creations fresh off the press.

Lunch at Greenwoods Singel

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:20 PM – 01:50 PM

For lunch, head to Greenwoods Singel. I first came across this little gem on a recent trip to Edinburgh and was pleasantly surprised to find they also have a spot in Amsterdam. In fact, the Singel canal location was actually the original one, opened before they expanded to Edinburgh. I’d definitely recommend the Ginger Lime Sparkler and the Full English Breakfast – one of the best I’ve had.

Another great lunch option in the area is Heertje Friet. Amsterdam has its own take on fries, and you’ll find them everywhere. You really can’t walk far without spotting a fries stand. They come in paper cones, piled high, and topped with everything from mayo to peanut sauce. Before the trip, I did a bit of fries research and narrowed it down to two spots to try. Heertje Friet was one of them, and it definitely didn’t disappoint – especially the fries with truffle mayo and parmesan cheese.

If you’re not absolutely starving, go for a small cone, because they’re actually quite generous in size. Luckily, they have sample cones on display so you can see exactly what you’re getting before you order.

Book your tickets in advance (or you won’t get in)

Afternoon

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM

The Royal Palace was originally built in 1648 as Amsterdam’s town hall during the city’s Golden Age. It only became a royal palace later in 1806, when Napoleon’s brother, Louis Bonaparte, declared himself King of Holland and moved in. After that, it went on to become the official palace of the Dutch monarchy. Today, though, it’s mainly used for state events and royal receptions rather than as an actual residence.

Inside, you’ll find marble floors, huge chandeliers, and grand civic halls that once hosted city council meetings. Don’t miss the impressive world maps carved into the floor of the famous Citizens’ Hall – a reminder of the city’s powerful trading history.

As you probably know, Amsterdam was basically built on wooden piles driven into soft, swampy soil, with canals dug for water management and transport. The Royal Palace is no exception – in fact, it sits on 13,659 wooden piles driven deep into the ground!

🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets can sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Royal Palace (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)

I’d recommend booking your tickets through GetYourGuide. If you book through them, you can visit anytime on your chosen date. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Book via the official website, however, and you’re locked into a specific time slot, with non-refundable tickets, which can be pretty inconvenient if your plans change.

The price is exactly the same, so there’s really no downside. Your ticket also includes a free audio guide, which you can pick up at the entrance desk.

To be honest, after seeing hundreds of palaces during my travels, I didn’t find the Royal Palace of Amsterdam all that impressive. It was still interesting to visit, but don’t expect the same level of grandeur you’ll find in the palaces of France, Italy, or even Germany.

Canal cruise

Duration: 1 h 🕒 04:00 PM – 05:00 PM

Amsterdam is famous for its canals, so taking a canal cruise is pretty much a must when you’re there. There are plenty of companies to choose from, but I’d highly recommend Flagship Amsterdam. Their cruises are usually really well rated, and instead of the usual pre-recorded commentary you get on many others, there’s a local skipper-guide on board.

Their most popular boat tour is the Saloon Boat Cruise with optional Cheese & Wine. I actually took this canal cruise myself, so I can personally say it lives up to its excellent reviews. The boat is fully covered, so you don’t need to worry about rain. This is a real bonus in Amsterdam, where the weather can change several times in a day. My top tip is to book in advance, as the most popular afternoon and evening slots sell out quickly.

If you’re looking for more options, check out my detailed guide to the best canal cruises in Amsterdam.

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Finish your first day in Amsterdam with dinner at The Seafood Bar. This family-run restaurant has become one of the best seafood spots in the city, and for good reason. They have several locations, but I’d recommend the Damrak one – the interior is stunning, with beautiful red-orange tiles.

Their signature dish is the Fruits de Mer seafood platter, and you’ll spot it on almost every table. Since I’m not a huge fan of oysters or fish sashimi, I went for the grilled octopus, fried fish, cod fillet, and scallops instead – and every single dish was fantastic. Save some room for dessert, too, especially the chocolate bavarois, which was absolutely delicious.

As for reservations, make sure to book your table at least a week in advance. When we arrived for our 7 PM reservation, the waiting list was already full (they keep a few tables for walk-ins), and they were turning away almost everyone else.

Another great dinner option is A. van Wees Tasting Locality. I actually stumbled across it by accident, as it was just a few steps from my hotel. It’s a fantastic place to try genever, a traditional Dutch spirit that’s basically the predecessor of modern gin. They even distil their own, and you can sample more than 17 different types.

The food is just as good. I can definitely recommend the bitterballen (they also offer a vegan version) and the homemade stew served with fries.

Best Amsterdam Tours & Experiences

2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary – Day 2

Morning

Breakfast at Brioche.

Duration: 30 min 🕒 08:00 AM – 08:30 AM

Start your second day in Amsterdam with breakfast at Brioche. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Rijksmuseum, your first stop of the day, but trust me – it’s worth the detour. This French bakery is one of my favourite spots in the city. I especially love their brioche filled with praline, matcha-pistachio, or vanilla custard. The pistachio croissant and ham-and-cheese croissant are also amazing.

Rijksmuseum

Duration: 3 h 🕒 09:00 AM – 12:00 PM

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous art museums in the world! So if you only visit one museum in Amsterdam, this is the one to pick. Set in a stunning neo-Gothic building right on Museumplein, it already feels impressive before you even step inside. The museum is dedicated to Dutch art and history, with a big focus on the Golden Age in the 1600s, when the Netherlands was really at its peak.

The most famous section is the Gallery of Honour, where you’ll find iconic works by Dutch masters. The biggest star of the collection is Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. It’s a massive 1642 painting and one of the main reasons people come here. You’ll also see Vermeer’s The Milkmaid and The Merry Drinker by Frans Hals.

🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum (save hours, skip the crowds, with free cancellation)
Best guided tour: Rijksmuseum Highlights Guided Tour – skip the lines and explore masterpieces like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid with an expert Dutch art guide (small group)

Beyond paintings, you’ll also find impressive ship models, Delftware ceramics, and even dollhouses that once belonged to wealthy Dutch families. In fact, I was genuinely impressed by the dollhouses. I’d even compare them to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House at Windsor Castle.

Also, the beautiful Cuypers Library is worth a quick peek. And while exploring the galleries, keep an eye out for cats in the paintings! There are quite a few hidden throughout the museum’s collection!

I highly recommend booking in advance, as this is the most popular museum in Amsterdam and tickets can sell out. Also, don’t book through the official website, since those tickets are non-refundable. For just €2 more, you can get free cancellation if you book through GetYourGuide.

Also, right after you enter the building, head straight to the top floor, where you’ll find the Gallery of Honour and The Night Watch. That way, you can explore before the crowds arrive, since this part of the museum gets very busy later in the day. I started with The Night Watch, but then decided to explore the rest of the floor and save the Gallery of Honour for last. An hour later, it was so packed I could barely get close to the paintings, let alone actually enjoy them.

Also, in my view, three hours is the absolute minimum to see everything. I spent three hours there and still ended up rushing through some exhibitions. So make sure you give yourself enough time.

Lunch at Harmani Coffee & Brunch

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:10 PM – 01:40 PM

For lunch, head to Harmani Coffee & Brunch. This cosy micro-roastery serves fantastic stuffed croissants (both savoury and sweet) as well as handmade peinirli, the traditional Greek boat-shaped bread pie. I honestly didn’t expect much from the peinirli. However, it turned out to be so good, especially with the delicious tomato sauce served on the side! Go for the Loaded peinirli with beef, cheese, and egg, and don’t leave without trying the pistachio croissant.

Afternoon

Van Gogh Museum

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM

The Van Gogh Museum holds the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s work anywhere in the world. Inside, you’ll find over 200 paintings, around 500 drawings, and hundreds of his personal letters. You’ll also see some of his most famous pieces, like Sunflowers, The Bedroom, and plenty of self-portraits. He painted himself so often, mainly because he couldn’t afford to hire models. So, he just used the one he always had on hand.

What makes it especially interesting is that the exhibitions tell Van Gogh’s story chronologically. You can actually see his style evolving room by room. His early Dutch paintings are dark and earthy, inspired by peasant life and hard labour. Then, suddenly, the colours explode after his move to Paris, where he discovers Impressionism.

🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out, so secure yours now
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Van Gogh Museum (save hours, skip the crowds, with free cancellation)
Best guided tour: Van Gogh Highlights Guided Tour – explore iconic works like Sunflowers and The Bedroom, and uncover the secrets behind Van Gogh’s art with an expert guide

One of the most interesting things is that Van Gogh only painted for about ten years. Yet, in that short time, he created over 2,000 artworks. Sadly, he only became famous after his death. During his lifetime, he struggled financially and was mostly supported by his brother Theo.

As with the Rijksmuseum, I’d recommend booking in advance, as tickets are timed and often sell out. It’s worth booking through GetYourGuide, as you’ll get free cancellation for just €2 more. Tickets from the official website are non-refundable. I also recommend getting the audio guide, as it helps you fully understand Van Gogh’s life and work.

If you have more than two days in Amsterdam, I’d suggest visiting the Van Gogh Museum in the morning, as it was quite busy when I went in the afternoon. However, if you need to fit both the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum into one day, as I did, start with the Rijksmuseum. It’s the more popular one and much bigger than the Van Gogh Museum. You’ll definitely need plenty of energy and time to see it properly.

Dinner at The Pantry

If you want to try proper traditional Dutch food, there’s really one place to go – The Pantry. This family-run restaurant serves Dutch specialities like meatballs, beef, and sausages with hearty mashed sides in different flavours.

I’d recommend the combination of hutspot, kale, and sauerkraut mash with a meatball, or the beef hachee. And for a starter, definitely go for the bitterballen – deep-fried crispy balls filled with a rich, savoury meat ragout.

The place is very popular, so you’ll need to make a reservation at least a month and a half in advance. I tried booking about a month before my trip, and the only slot available during my whole week in Amsterdam was an early dinner at 4:30 PM. So I took it.

If you can’t get a reservation, they do have a few tables for walk-ins, but it’s best to go early and be prepared to wait. When I arrived for my 4:30 PM booking, there were already around eight people waiting for a table. So it definitely gets busy later on.

Another dinner option is Fabel Friet, one of my favourite spots for fries in the city. They have several locations, so it’s worth checking which one is most convenient for you. I went to the Runstraat branch, and while there was a queue in the afternoon, it moved pretty quickly.

They use high-quality Agria potatoes grown in Dutch soil, specially developed for fries. I also liked that they keep the skin on, which really adds to the flavour. I went for the Fries, Parmesan & truffle mayo and Fries, cheddar & spicy mayo – both fantastic.

Where to stay in Amsterdam (My top picks)

Even if you already have a hotel booked, I’d still recommend checking out my complete guide on where to stay in Amsterdam. It’ll help you avoid noisy areas or end up too far from the main sights.

More things to do in Amsterdam in 2 days

Rembrandt House Museum

Duration: 1 h

If you’re a fan of Rembrandt van Rijn, there’s one place in Amsterdam that absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary – the Rembrandt House Museum. This is the actual home where Rembrandt lived from 1639 to 1658. During that time, he taught students, collected all sorts of unusual objects, and created some of his most famous paintings.

He bought the house in 1639, right at the peak of his success, and filled it with all kinds of unusual treasures. From seashells and weapons to sculptures, exotic fabrics, and other curiosities that inspired his art. But despite being one of Europe’s most famous painters, he spent far too much money. Eventually went bankrupt, forcing him to leave the house years later.

What makes the museum especially interesting is that historians recreated many of the rooms using the exact inventory made during his bankruptcy. So the studio, kitchen, and living spaces look remarkably close to how they did in the 1600s. Imagine standing in the very same studio where he created the iconic The Night Watch!

The Rembrandt House Museum is quite small, so visitor numbers are limited. I’d really recommend booking your ticket in advance, since entry is timed and tickets often sell out.

Willet-Holthuysen House

Duration: 1 h

The Willet-Holthuysen House is one of the city’s hidden gems. This beautiful canal mansion was built around 1685, during the city’s Golden Age. But what you see today mostly reflects the life of its final owners, Abraham Willet and Louisa Holthuysen. They were wealthy collectors who filled the house with paintings, silver, porcelain, and decorative pieces from all over Europe.

What makes it especially interesting to visit is that it wasn’t recreated as a museum later. It was simply left as one. When Louisa died in 1895, she donated the entire home and its collection to the city. It was on the condition that it would become a museum bearing their name. So you’re basically walking through a real, preserved upper-class home.

I found the house really charming. Plus, it was so interesting to see what a real canal house looks like from the inside. I especially liked the cat and dog paintings you come across in almost every room. Also, make sure to check out the beautiful French-style garden at the back.

No need to buy tickets in advance. Even during peak tulip season, there were only two other visitors besides me.

Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder

Duration: 1 h

Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic) is one of the city’s most surprising spots. From the outside, it looks like a regular 17th-century canal house, but inside you’ll find a full Catholic church hidden across the top floors.

In the 1660s, the Netherlands was officially Protestant, so Catholics weren’t allowed to openly worship or build visible churches. While they weren’t heavily persecuted, their religion had to stay out of sight. So a wealthy Catholic merchant, Jan Hartman, bought this canal house and turned the upper floors into a private church. From the outside, nothing looked different, but inside, it became a fully functioning place of worship.

The attic church itself is astonishing. It stretches across three upper floors, with a proper altar, chandeliers, and even a small organ. It was carefully designed to feel like a real church inside, even though it was completely invisible from the street. Around 150 people could gather here for worship.

Besides the hidden church, you can explore the old living quarters of a wealthy 17th-century family, including the kitchens, bedrooms, and storage spaces. So, you get a real sense of daily life in Amsterdam’s Golden Age before reaching the hidden church above. It’s such a unique place, so I’d definitely recommend stopping by if you have some extra time.

Tickets are timed, but even though it was quite busy in the afternoon when I visited, I had no problem buying them on-site.

Begijnhof

Duration: 20 min

Hidden just off the busy Spui square, the Begijnhof is a quiet courtyard that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was originally home to the beguines – a community of religious women who lived together but weren’t nuns. They had a rare kind of independence for their time. They could work, own property, and live outside strict convent rules.

The moment you walk in, the noise of Amsterdam disappears. It’s calm, green, and surrounded by historic houses dating back to the 14th and 17th centuries. One of the highlights is the Houten Huys (house number 34). It’s one of the oldest wooden houses in Amsterdam, dating back to before 1452. You won’t really see anything like it anywhere else in the city – wooden houses were banned in 1521 because of fire risk.

Today, more than 100 women still live here! So it’s not just a museum piece – it’s very much a real residential space, and silence is expected. If you can, go on a weekday when it’s much quieter. On weekends, it can get busy, sometimes even with a small line to get in, which takes away from that calm atmosphere.

Basilica of Saint Nicholas

Duration: 20 min

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas (Sint-Nicolaasbasiliek) is one of the city’s most stunning churches. You’ll spot it almost immediately when you step out of the Central Station. It’s dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and children, which fits perfectly in a historic port city like Amsterdam.

Built in 1887 in Neo-Baroque and Neo-Renaissance styles, it’s the city’s main Catholic church and a bit of an architectural surprise. While Amsterdam is usually famous for its narrow canal houses and simple Protestant churches, this one stands out with its grand dome and two towers. I found the stained glass gorgeous, so I’d definitely suggest taking a quick peek inside.

Just a heads-up: the Basilica of Saint Nicholas is open to visitors from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, not from 12:00 PM as some blogs and websites suggest. There’s usually a daily mass around noon, and the church only opens for sightseeing once it’s over.

Church of St. Francis Xavier

Duration: 20 min

If you appreciate beautiful churches, the Church of St. Francis Xavier (De Krijtberg) is definitely one to add to your list. Completed in 1883, this Roman Catholic Jesuit church has some of the most stunning stained-glass windows in the city.

Red Light District

The Red Light District, officially known locally as De Wallen, is one of the city’s oldest and most talked-about neighbourhoods. It dates back to the 14th century, when Amsterdam was a busy port city. Sailors arriving after long sea journeys created demand for taverns and entertainment near the harbour. Over time, the area evolved into what is now one of the world’s most famous Red Light Districts.

What really surprised me was that it’s not just about nightlife or neon lights. It’s actually a historic medieval quarter, filled with canals, crooked houses, and hidden alleyways. And during the day, it’s surprisingly charming, so I’d definitely recommend taking a walk around.

If you want to go a bit deeper and learn more about its infamous history and secrets, I’d suggest joining this Guided Red Light District Tour.

Amsterdam flower bikes

When walking around the city, you can’t help but notice the beautifully decorated flower bikes scattered everywhere. They’re part of an unofficial city art project, created by an American artist known as the Flower Bike Man.

It all started as a personal gesture for his wife. To help her find her way more easily, he decorated a blue bicycle with large sunflowers and placed it near an intersection as a visual landmark. Over time, it grew into a city-wide phenomenon. Today, there are more than 100 of these colourful bikes around the city.

The Mouse Mansion

Duration: 20 min

The Mouse Mansion (Het Muizenhuis) is one of the city’s most charming hidden gems. It was created by Dutch artist Karina Schaapman, who began building it in 2008. Her goal was to create a children’s book world using photographs of a fully handmade miniature mouse house instead of drawings.

She built the entire world herself from cardboard boxes, recycled materials, and everyday objects. The result is a huge, multi-room mansion seen from a mouse’s perspective, filled with tiny shops, streets, kitchens, and bedrooms. Later, she introduced the characters Sam and Julia, two mice who explore this world, and turned it into a series of children’s books.

I discovered the Mouse Mansion completely by accident after buying a cute plush mouse at the Rijksmuseum and then Googling the brand. I realised they don’t just have a shop in Amsterdam. It’s actually the very place where you can see the Mouse Mansion on display. So, of course, I had to visit it.

Amsterdam’s Best Sweet Spots

If you have a sweet tooth, there are three places in Amsterdam you can’t miss. The first one is Van Stapele Koekmakerij, a famous cookie shop. I have to admit, when I see a place with more than 5,000 Google Maps reviews, I usually skip it because it’s just another tourist trap that’s gone viral on social media. However, I decided to give Van Stapele Koekmakerij a try, since the reviews were so good. And I’m really glad I did.

They only sell one type of cookie – a dark chocolate dough with a white chocolate core, and it’s absolutely to die for. I loved it so much that I went back the next day and even bought some to take home. Just a heads-up: there’s almost always a line, but it moves quickly. You won’t wait more than about 15 minutes.

The second is T’aart Café, a cosy little patisserie just a few steps from Amsterdam Centraal. I’d definitely recommend the Tonka Dream and the Dulcey Mirage – both were delicious!

And the last is WALDO Chocolade & Patisserie. I found this cake shop completely by accident one afternoon on my way back to the hotel. The Pecan Caramel and Dutch Crunch cakes were both fantastic. They have two locations, so it’s worth checking which one is closest before you go.

Best day trips from Amsterdam

Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is one of the most popular and easiest day trips from Amsterdam. This charming village is famous for its traditional Dutch windmills, wooden clogs, and historic crafts. It’s the perfect place to experience the Dutch countryside, learn more about local traditions, and take beautiful photos.

For more details, check out my complete guide to a Zaanse Schans day trip from Amsterdam.

Keukenhof

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in spring, Keukenhof is a must. Located in Lisse, about 40 minutes from the city, this world-famous flower garden is home to millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May, but the best time to visit is usually mid to late April when the tulips are at their peak.

For more details, check out my complete guide to Amsterdam tulip season.

Amsterdam gifts and souvenirs

Cheese

The Netherlands is especially famous for its Gouda and Edam cheeses. And in Amsterdam, you’ll find cheese shops on almost every corner offering everything from young to aged Gouda, truffle and goat cheeses.

I love cheese, so I couldn’t resist bringing some home. To be honest, I didn’t really research what to buy, just where to buy it (to avoid the tourist traps). I went into De Kaaskamer, a cheese shop with over 400 types of cheese, and picked two that looked good and weren’t too big.

Back home, I realised I had chosen Boeren Mosterdkaas (a soft Gouda with mustard) and Petit Doruvael Truffle (a young, creamy cheese with black truffle). Both were fantastic, so I’d definitely recommend them if you like mustard or truffles. Plus, they were vacuum-sealed, so there was no need to refrigerate them (I specifically asked in the store).

Also, my advice is to skip the flashy touristy cheese shops like Henri Willig Cheese Farm Store or the Amsterdam Cheese Museum. They’re fun to peek into, but the cheese is usually overpriced and not that good. If you want the real deal, head to places like De Kaaskamer or Fromagerie Abraham Kef instead. That’s where you’ll find proper Dutch cheese that actually tastes like what you hope it will.

Mustard

Besides cheese, the Netherlands is also very famous for its mustard. It’s quite different from the smooth, mild versions you’ll find elsewhere in Europe. It’s often coarse and grainy, with a strong, slightly sharp flavour. You’ll also find plenty of variations, from spicy and honey to truffle and balsamic. It’s commonly sold in cheese shops, which, as I mentioned earlier, you’ll find all over Amsterdam.

I bought mustard at the airport from a brand called Theo van Woerkom, and it was amazing. They have all kinds of flavours, including honey, cranberry, sambal, and more.

Tulips bulbs

The Netherlands is world-famous for its tulips. So, it’s no surprise that tulip bulbs are the perfect souvenir to take home. But be careful where you buy them from. Avoid the Flower Market, as it’s a tourist trap. Many of the bulbs sold there are quite old and, according to tests done by city authorities a few years ago, wouldn’t even grow if planted. Also, keep in mind that for some countries (like the US and Canada), tulip bulbs need to have the proper stamp or certification to pass through customs.

If you want good-quality tulip bulbs, you’ll find them at places like Keukenhof, the Tulip Museum, or even at the airport. You can also order online from the Tulip Store, one of Keukenhof’s official partners. Just keep in mind, they only ship within the European Union and Switzerland.

De Posthumuswinkel

Just off Kalverstraat, De Posthumuswinkel is one of Amsterdam’s hidden gems. From the outside, you might mistake it for a simple stationery shop, but this little store has been making and selling stamps in Amsterdam since 1865. Inside, you’ll find all kinds of unusual stamps, sealing wax, ink pads and beautiful stationery. The Posthumus company was even granted the Dutch Hofleverancier designation in 1920 after making the Dutch royal coat of arms for the Royal Household.

I found this little gem completely by accident while walking back to my hotel. And, of course, I couldn’t leave without a cat wax seal and some colourful wax! They even have stamps inspired by Amsterdam’s canal houses and tulips. It’s the perfect place to pick up a small, unusual souvenir from the Netherlands, especially if you love stationery shops.

Sam & Julia

If you have kids, or you’re a kid at heart like me and can’t resist a cute plushie, then don’t miss the Sam and Julia brand. It’s the same brand I mentioned earlier in this post when talking about The Mouse Mansion. They even collaborated with the Rijksmuseum, and I ended up buying the cutest little plush mouse from the museum shop, dressed like a 17th-century noble. You can also find their full collection at The Mouse Mansion, which doubles as a store.

Amsterdam itinerary options for 1 or 3 days

1-Day Amsterdam itinerary

You can see some of Amsterdam’s highlights in just one day, but not everything. Start your morning with either the Rijksmuseum (home to The Night Watch) or the Van Gogh Museum. I’d personally choose the Rijksmuseum, unless you’re especially interested in Van Gogh, simply because the collection is very impressive.

In the afternoon, visit the Anne Frank House. The visit itself is fairly short, so afterwards you’ll still have time for a canal cruise, which is one of the best ways to experience the city. If you only have one day, it’s enough to admire the Royal Palace of Amsterdam from the outside rather than going in.

And of course, don’t leave without trying a stroopwafel from Hans Egstorf.

3-Day Amsterdam itinerary

If you’ve got an extra day in Amsterdam, just follow my 2-day itinerary first and then use the third day for a day trip. The best options are Zaanse Schans or Keukenhof Gardens.

If you’re visiting in April during tulip season, definitely go to Keukenhof Gardens – the flower fields are incredible. Otherwise, I’d recommend Zaanse Schans instead, with its charming windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and postcard-perfect countryside views.

Getting around in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s historic centre is very walkable, and that’s where you’ll find most of the main attractions, including the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. You can easily explore the city on foot, with even the farthest attractions being no more than about a 30-minute walk apart.

If you stay in the centre, you probably won’t need public transportation at all. I stayed in the 9 Straatjes area right by the canals, and the only time I used public transport was for my day trip to Keukenhof Gardens.

If you prefer using public transport, trams are the most convenient option since they connect all the main tourist areas. The metro is mainly useful for getting to neighbourhoods outside the city centre.

You can either buy a GVB 1-hour ticket or simply tap your contactless bank card or phone when boarding and exiting trams, buses, and the metro. I personally tried both options, as at one metro station, all the ticket machines were out of order, so there was no way to buy a ticket on the spot.

How to get to Amsterdam

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is about 18 km (11 miles) from the city centre. To get there, you have a few options:

• take the Sprinter train to Amsterdam Centraal (about 15 minutes). You can either buy a ticket or simply use your contactless bank card. Make sure to always check in and out by tapping your ticket or card on the yellow readers. Otherwise, you won’t be able to exit the train station
• a taxi will cost you around €80, and you can find them at the official taxi stand in front of Schiphol Plaza

By train

Amsterdam Centraal is the city’s main railway station. It’s a stunning building located right on the edge of the historic centre and the waterfront. From there, you can take trains to cities like Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, as well as international trains to Brussels and Paris.

The official Dutch railway company is NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen). You don’t need to buy tickets in advance when travelling within the country, as trains to places like Rotterdam and Utrecht run very frequently. You really only need to book ahead for international routes.

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FAQs about visiting Amsterdam

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