3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
If you've got just three days to soak in the wonders of Amsterdam, don't worry—I’m about to dive into an array of experiences to create an unforgettable 3-day itinerary that will include deepening your understanding of Amsterdam’s history and culture. Whether it's your first time visiting this beautiful city or your second or third, this post will guide you through the must-sees and must-dos in this city known as the "other Venice," where every canal turn, and cobblestone street is a gateway to both the past and the pulsating heartbeat of the present. Let’s get started!
View from Waterlooplein.
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A quick reminder that our Amsterdam Destination Guide is here to navigate you through your travel logistics, offering insights on transportation choices, reaching the heart of Amsterdam from the airport, and other essential advice. Crucially, it tackles the all-important question: where to stay? I've curated a selection of Amsterdam's finest hotels to ensure your stay is as memorable as the city itself. To understand more about our criteria for hotel recommendations, you can find further details here.
But before we get started on this journey, I’d like to take a moment to familiarize you with some key cultural and historical context to enrich your Amsterdam experience.
Amsterdam's Canals is a UNESCO Site
Amsterdam's canals are more than just beautiful water paths; they're a smart city design idea. Back in the 16th century, when Amsterdam became a key trading center, its canals were carefully planned for defense and managing water. The Grachtengordel," or ring of canals, was built during the Dutch Golden Age. This design helped move goods around and let the city grow.
In the 1600s, these canals were Amsterdam's main way to transport goods, playing a huge role in the city's wealth and expansion. Thanks to its clever use of canals, Amsterdam thrived. In 2010, the Amsterdam Canal Ring got added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This honor shows how well Amsterdam combined old architecture and water management to make a livable, modern city. The canals are praised for keeping history alive while supporting a green, growing city.
Amsterdam’s Biking Culture
Bikers in Vondelpark.
Amsterdam's love for biking is a big part of what makes the city special. It has loads of bike paths, special bike lanes, and features that make it super bike-friendly. Everyone, from locals to tourists, prefers biking here. It's a common sight to see people of all ages riding their bikes, whether they're heading to work, doing daily chores, or just cruising by the beautiful canals. Amsterdam is perfect for biking because it's flat and not too big, plus everyone respects bikers here. That makes biking in Amsterdam really enjoyable. For instance, when bikes and cars share a lane, there are clear signs reminding cars that bikers have the right of way.
Just a tip: when you rent a bike, from your hotel or anywhere else, make sure you know how to lock it right. Lock the frame and the wheel together. I didn't run into any trouble myself, but both locals and hotel workers warned me about bike theft and stressed the importance of locking up your bike well.
For more information on Biking and Rules of the Road, visit our Biking in Amsterdam (Getting There and Around) in our Amsterdam Destination Guide and our blog with the same name.
AMSTERDAM 3-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1
Morning: Bike to Museumplein and Visit the Rijksmuseum
Museumplein
Start your adventure by grabbing a bike from your hotel or a nearby rental spot. Pedal over to Museumplein, or Museum Square, which stands as a central hub for art, history, and leisure. This wide, open square sits right in the middle of the city's museum district (Oud-Zuid) and is surrounded by some of the most renowned museums and cultural hotspots. I discovered it's a perfect place to escape the city's noise, take a breather, and gather your thoughts. The square's openness, without many tall trees or bushes, creates a vast, freeing feeling, kind of like looking out over the sea.
You'll find major attractions here like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, Concertgebouw, and the Moco Museum.
Give yourself around 30 minutes to an hour to bike around here and soak in the vibes before heading to the Rijksmuseum. You can also save this peaceful ride for after your museum visit.
If you are nervous about biking, remember there are many transportation options. Check our Destination Guide on Getting There and Around for more information on public transportation.
Visit the Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum
Museumplein is anchored by the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam's treasure trove of art, where you'll be spending a good chunk of your morning. Remember to book your timed entry ticket ahead of time. I'll dive into the Rijksmuseum's must-sees and standout pieces in my next blog post.
The art inside tells the story of Dutch history, serving as a pictorial history book of Amsterdam. With a collection of over a million items, the museum showcases the genius of artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer. Make sure you see Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch,' an intriguing piece showing civic guards, and Vermeer's 'The Milkmaid,' a peaceful scene of daily life. You'll also find works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Frans Hals. The Dutch Golden Age has left a lasting mark on the world of art, shaping its evolution for generations.
Allocate around 2-3 hours to fully embrace the artistry on display.
After the museum, allow yourself another 1 to 1 ½ hour go to lunch in the museum restaurant or café or at any place just outside of the museum. The Rijks Restaurant in the museum was awarded the Michelin designation. We enjoyed our meal there.
Afternoon: Explore Amsterdam on Bike
After lunch, grab your bike and embrace the Dutch way of life by spending your afternoon on a bike ride to Vondelpark, the city's most famous park. Amsterdam has an extensive network of bike paths, dedicated lanes, and bike-friendly infrastructure. As I already mentioned, cycling is an integral part of Amsterdam's culture, and Vondelpark offers the perfect setting with its scenic paths and lush surroundings, providing an easy way to join the locals in this favorite pastime. Ride along the winding paths, stop by the rose garden, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the park. Alternatively, exploring the city on bike is another great way of seeing the different neighborhoods.
Allow yourself about 2 hours for this delightful experience. Make sure to stop along and admire some of the art installations around the park.
Evening: Exploring the Nine Streets
Drop off your bike and conclude your day in the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes), a picturesque neighborhood known for its boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. This area, with its historical buildings and charming ambience, reflects the quintessential Amsterdam experience. It's the perfect place for dinner, with options ranging from cozy cafés to upscale restaurants. Stroll through these vibrant streets, and you'll understand why Amsterdam's heart beats in its narrow lanes and bustling squares.
Day 2
Morning: Van Gogh Museum
We made sure to reserve our timed entry ticket in advance and encourage you to do the same, especially during summer months. The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam stands as a tribute to the life and work of the iconic post-impressionist painter, Vincent van Gogh. Housed within a striking modern building, the museum showcases the largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings, drawings, and letters in the world. The museum's history traces back to a dedicated effort by Vincent's nephew, Vincent Willem van Gogh, who sought to preserve his uncle's legacy. Opening its doors to the public in 1973, the museum has since become a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts and admirers of Van Gogh's emotionally evocative work. You’ll find paintings like 'The Potato Eaters' and 'Sunflowers.' With a compelling blend of permanent and temporary exhibitions, the museum is set up chronologically, creating a kind of journey through the artist's tumultuous life and shifting artistic vision. I was struck by the fact that his entire artistic life was only a decade long.
Spend about 2-3 hours here to truly appreciate Van Gogh's genius.
Make sure to grab lunch before embarking on a Canal Tour.
Afternoon: Canal Tour
Kick off your afternoon with a classic Amsterdam activity—a canal tour. Hop onto a glass-topped boat and sail through the city's canals. As you float along, you'll see the graceful merchant houses, ancient bridges, and cozy houseboats that decorate the canals. These waterways are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing Amsterdam's clever and historical approach to city planning. It's a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and soak in its unique charm.
You can book your canal tour through online booking such as Viator or Get Your Guide or at the on-site ticket offices. We enjoyed the stories and facts narrated by our audio guide, bringing the city’s history to life. You can expect to see scenic views of the canals flanked by centuries old buildings offering a picturesque backdrop. We also witnessed the famous narrow houses of Amsterdam with their ornate gables and learned about the city’s architectural style and urban development. One fascinating thing I learned was that during the Dutch Golden Age, taxes for the homes were based on the width of the property. So, a taller, narrower home with the same square footage of a wider home, would be taxed less, hence the famous narrow houses of Amsterdam.
All tours will provide either a live commentary or an audio guide in multiple languages, offering fascinating anecdotes and historical insights about the city and its landmarks. If I had a do-over, I’d probably go with a tour guide through Viator or Get Your Guide than the audio guide – at times the audio guide was difficult to understand.
A typical tour lasts about 1-1.5 hours, offering a unique perspective of Amsterdam from the water.
Late Afternoon to Evening: Explore the Neighborhoods by Foot
After taking the canal tour, we found exploring Amsterdam by foot a great way to experience the city's diverse neighborhoods. Each area has its own special vibe and character, letting you get a real feel for Amsterdam's rich history, lively culture, and beautiful buildings at your leisure. Here are some of Amsterdam's neighborhoods and areas that I found particularly worth exploring on foot that you can choose from. Have dinner in any one of them during dinner time!
You can also take a 3-hour walking tour that will take you through the historical sites of Amsterdam.
Dam Square
Dam Square is at the heart of Amsterdam's history, surrounded by significant buildings and always alive with activity. The Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) are major landmarks here. Though the Nieuwe Kerk no longer functions as a church in a city that's becoming more secular, it, along with the rest of the square, is a key spot for the community, hosting events, performances, protests, and celebrations all year round. The square's vibrant energy, stunning architecture, and historical importance make it a top spot to check out. That said, the absence of greenery, trees, and canals that add so much to Amsterdam’s charm, combined with the conversion of the church into an event center, created a lack of vibrancy that I found in other areas of Amsterdam.
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
Red Light District (De Wallen)
The Red Light District is perhaps one of Amsterdam's most infamous neighborhoods, known for its illuminated windows and adult entertainment. But there's more to this area than meets the eye; it's one of the city's oldest and most historic districts, with beautiful canals, narrow streets, and hidden gems. Walking through the area reveals an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and shops, alongside the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam's oldest church.
The Jordaan
Another neighborhood worth noting is The Jordaan. It is one of Amsterdam's most charming neighborhoods. Known for its narrow streets, beautiful canals, and a mix of independent art galleries, antique shops, courtyard gardens (hofjes), and atmospheric bars and restaurants, it represents the quintessential Amsterdam experience. The area's rich history as a working-class and immigrant quarter has given way to an artistic community that retains its historical charm.
De Pijp
Vibrant and bohemian, De Pijp is known for its diverse population, bustling Albert Cuyp Market (the city's largest street market), and trendy dining scene. This neighborhood is also home to the Sarphatipark, a peaceful green oasis, and the Heineken Experience in the former brewery.
Waterlooplein
Waterlooplein is home to Amsterdam's most famous flea market, offering a mix of vintage clothes, antiques, electronics, and curiosities. The area, historically significant as it was the Jewish heart of the city prior to World War II. A shrine at the edge of the square near the canal, commemorates the Dutch resistance to the brutal Nazi occupation. The area now includes the Stopera (City Hall and Opera House) and the Rembrandt House Museum. It's a place where the city's past and present converge, offering a unique shopping experience and a glimpse into the local lifestyle.
Waterlooplein
Flower Market Area (Bloemenmarkt)
The Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), floating on the Singel canal, is the only one of its kind in the world. It is open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This bustling market showcases everything from traditional Dutch tulips to exotic plants. The unique floating stalls are a nod to the days when flowers and plants were brought in by boat. Beyond the market, the surrounding area is filled with quaint shops, cafes, and the picturesque architecture that Amsterdam is famous for, plus of course numerous eateries and cafes. To me, it was fascinating to see a floating market, but it felt a little cramp and maybe its best days are behind it.
Flower Market
Rembrandtplein
Named after the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn, this square is a lively spot at night. Surrounded by bars, clubs, cafes, and restaurants, it's a popular destination for nightlife. During the day, visitors can enjoy the outdoor terraces and the central statue of Rembrandt. The area is also a stone's throw away from the traditional and picturesque Reguliersgracht canal.
Rembrandtplein
Summary
Each of these areas offers a distinct slice of Amsterdam life, from the historical and cultural landmarks of Dam Square and Waterlooplein to the lively nightlife of Rembrandtplein, the unique floating Flower Market, and the notorious allure of the Red Light District. Exploring these neighborhoods by foot gives you time to explore and discover hidden alleys, charming cafes, and small shops.
Day 3
Morning: Jewish Quarter and Anne Frank Museum
Make sure to purchase your ticket in advance for the Anne Frank Museum or for a combination of a Jewish Quarter and Anne Frank Museum tour either through Viator or Get Your Guide.
Head towards the Jewish Quarter, which crosses neighborhoods as the Waterlooplein, Plantage, and Nieuwmarkt. Explore the Jewish Historical Museum or visit the Portuguese Synagogue or the Verzets Resistance Museum to understand the rich Jewish heritage of Amsterdam. A short walk from the Jewish Quarter takes you to the Anne Frank House. Here, the story of Anne Frank and her diary unfolds in the very building where she and her family hid during WWII. The museum is not only a place of remembrance but also a symbol of hope and human rights.
I highly recommend a tour. Allocate around 2-3 hours for this moving experience.
Break for lunch – allow an hour or so for a relaxing lunch experience.
Afternoon: Other Sites
The final afternoon in Amsterdam is yours to enjoy as you please. You might choose to revisit a favorite spot, explore a new area, or simply relax in one of the city's many cozy cafes. You can also go to our Destination Guide Things to Do in Amsterdam for a complete list of options.
This is also a good time to start preparing for your departure, whether that means packing or arranging travel to the airport or train station.
Evening: Dinner at Foodhallen
We found Foodhallen, a vibrant indoor food market in the Oud-West neighborhood, to be a perfect way to end our day. This culinary hotspot, housed in a renovated tram depot, features a wide array of food stalls offering everything from local Dutch specialties to international cuisines. It's a lively place to taste different dishes, mingle with locals, and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. We found everyone in our family was able to find a place to satisfy their craving, whether it was sushi, gourmet burgers, or artisanal desserts. Foodhallen has something for every taste bud.
Foodhallen is inside De Hallen. It’s the third hall. You’ll also find Filmhallen inside (movie theatre).
Conclusion
The three-day itinerary I've put together for you showcases Amsterdam's rich blend of art, history, and culture. From exploring the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum to strolling through the peaceful Vondelpark, and from the moving Anne Frank Museum to the bustling Foodhallen, I hope you enjoy Amsterdam's inviting canals and quaint streets as much as we did. This city has so much to offer, and I'm excited for you to experience its warm hospitality and unique charm.
Happy Travels!
Zellie, your forever a traveler.
