Amsterdam, a city that blends history, culture, smoking and laid back lifestyle. With its endless canals, world-class museums, and eclectic neighbourhoods, Amsterdam was an unforgettable experience for me and my friend Danny. Here’s a detailed itinerary from our trip to the ‘highest’ capital in Europe to ensure you too can make the most of your stay in this awesome city.
Day 1: The Heart of Amsterdam
Morning: Canal Cruise
The best way to kick off your journey is with a quintessential Amsterdam experience: a canal cruise. The city’s 165 canals create a picturesque network perfect for a leisurely boat ride. I recommend opting for a guided tour through GetYourGuide.com or local tour guides to learn about Amsterdam’s history, architecture, and fun facts. Some cruises even offer breakfast, providing a delightful start to your day. Alternatively, some tours offer a liquid lunch if you’re feeling especially thirsty.
Mid-Morning: The Rijksmuseum
Disembark and head over to the Rijksmuseum, an art lover’s paradise. Housing over 8,000 objects of art and history, including masterpieces by the legendary Rembrandt and Vermeer, this museum is a must-see. Spend a couple of hours exploring its vast collections and don’t miss out on “The Night Watch,” a true highlight of the revered Rembrandt.
Brunch: Pancakes Amsterdam
Time for some delicious brunch at Pancakes Amsterdam. Try traditional Dutch pancakes, or opt for something more savoury like pancakes with bacon and cheese. Alternatively opt for the American pancake stack which comes with bacon, egg and hash brown and is sure to boost your energy for the day ahead.
Afternoon: Van Gogh Museum
Next, visit the Van Gogh Museum, which holds the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s artworks. The museum offers a deep dive into the life and mind of the iconic artist, featuring everything from his early sketches to his famous sunflower paintings. I found it best to visit these two museums on the first day as they’re situated close to one another and offer an insight into the minds of the finest Dutch painters in history.
Evening: Stroll Through Vondelpark & Red Lights
As the afternoon fades take a stroll through Vondelpark. This lush oasis in the city center is perfect for people-watching, relaxing by the ponds, or simply enjoying the greenery. Go into a local coffee shop and buy some snacks or smokes to relax with and reminisce on the day’s activities.
A must-see in Amsterdam is the famous Red Light District. Located in the De Wallen area, this is an area dedicated to prostitution, sex museums, sex shops and other related showings. In the Red Light District, prostitution is legal and regulated. I highly recommend taking in a museum in the area to learn more about the history of this work and the women involved as there can be quite a stigma attached to it without proper research and first-hand accounts. Visit the Red Light Secrets museum for an insightful audio tour of an actual brothel by a former sex worker.
Dinner: Blue Amsterdam
Wrap up your first day in Amsterdam with dinner at Blue Amsterdam, a restaurant located in a glass tower with stunning 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while gazing out at the twinkling city lights. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option grab a pizza from La Zoccola del Pacioccone and sit by the canals, taking in the bustling liveliness of the city as darkness falls.
Day 2: Somber History and Charming Present
Morning: Anne Frank House
Begin day two with a visit to the Anne Frank House. This museum offers a moving and insightful look into the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. It’s essential that you pre-book your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines and during the peak seasons you’ll miss out all together should you not.
Mid-Morning: Albert Cuyp Market
Now for some food, head to the Albert Cuyp Market, the largest street market in Amsterdam. This bustling market is the perfect place to find fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs. Don’t miss out on freshly made stroopwaffels or some more fluffy dutch pancakes, the two legendary desserts of the Netherlands.
Afternoon: Jordaan District and the Nine Streets
Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming Jordaan district. This area is known for its narrow streets, historic houses, and eclectic boutiques. Explore the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes), where you’ll find a mix of vintage shops, artisan stores, and cozy cafes.
Late Afternoon: Royal Palace and Dam Square
In the late afternoon, visit the Royal Palace on Dam Square. This grand building, still used for official functions today, offers a glimpse into the royal history and opulence of the Netherlands. After touring the palace, take a stroll around Dam Square, soaking in the bustling atmosphere and impressive architecture.
Evening: Fabrique des Lumières, Dinner & Drinks
As the evening dawns, make your way to Fabrique des Lumières, a unique audiovisual show that brings art to life using advanced digital technology. The combination of art and music creates a truly mesmerising experience and is certainly one not to be missed. After Fabrique des Lumières I recommend heading over to Moeders for some dinner. This restaurant celebrates Dutch cuisine and the importance of family. The walls here are adorned with photos of mothers, and the menu features hearty Dutch dishes like stamppot and hachee.
End the day with a visit to Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a local brewery housed in a former bathhouse next to a windmill. Enjoy a tasting of their craft beers and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Art, Parks, and Smokes
Morning: Westerkerk and Brunch
Begin your penultimate day in Amsterdam with a visit to Westerkerk, Amsterdam’s most famous church. Climb the tower for amazing views of the city. After this its time for more Brunch, because Amsterdam is teeming with trendy brunch spots. Head to Staring at Jacob, a gorgeous spot we actually found to be popular on TikTok. I highly recommend their poached eggs with avocado on sourdough, they’re as good as it gets. We found this a great spot for a healthy and delicious start to the day.
Mid-Morning: Bloemenmarkt & Smoke Time
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without visiting the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market. The vibrant displays of tulips and other flowers are a feast for the eyes, and you can also buy bulbs to take home as a souvenir!
Now for the moment all of you are waiting for, smoke time! Lets be honest, most of us go to Amsterdam for one very particular reason, the Legal use of Marijuana. One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is to head to a coffee shop and purchase some pre-rolled smokes. Dutch people consume weed just like we at home may go for a drink or meet up for a coffee. One of the main reasons that Amsterdam feels so laid back is its attitude towards smoking, and we certainly felt that during our time in the city, buy yourself some smokes and chill out in a Cafe or maybe go for an edible if you’re really feeling a hit!
Afternoon treat: Salvo
Make your way to pastry heaven in Salvo. This bakery has a vast selection of the best pastries in Amsterdam. From flaky croissants filled with a variety of mouth-watering fillings, to the sweetest treats such as; creative donuts, gooey cookies & many cakes. Opt for a variety of the Gooey cookies, you won’t be disappointed.
Late Afternoon: NDSM Wharf
In the afternoon, take a free ferry from behind Central Station to NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard turned creative hub. This area is known for its vibrant street art, quirky cafes, and unique shops and it certainly lives up to its name. Explore the industrial-chic surroundings and snap photos of the impressive murals.
Dinner: Foodhallen
Time for some dinner so head over to Foodhallen, an indoor food market located in a former tram depot. With a wide variety of food stalls offering everything from sushi to burgers, there’s something for all tastes. Grab a selection of dishes to share and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Evening: A’DAM Lookout
End your day with a visit to A’DAM Lookout, an observation deck with stunning panoramic views of Amsterdam. If you’re not too scared of heights, try “Over the Edge,” Europe’s highest swing that dangles you over the edge of the building. It’s a must for thrillseekers and gives you a different perspective of the Amsterdam you’ve spent a few days exploring. Fortunately for myself, my friend Danny who I shared this trip with is terrified of heights which made this experience even more enjoyable as I was hysterically laughing at him the whole time!
Day 4: Outside of the City and Nightlife
Morning: Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
Time for some time outside of the city. Hop on a quick train or cycle the 10k over to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. This must-see little village offers riverside peace, majestic views of the Amstel river windmills and a real taste of the beautiful Dutch countryside. You can rent a boat and paddle through the town, or enjoy a picnic on the picturesque banks.
Snack Time: Fabel Friet
After a whole morning outside of the city, head back in the afternoon and on over to Fabel Friet for a quick snack, they do the nicest fries in amsterdam. Although there are numerous Dutch fries stalls and restaurants nestled around Amsterdam, we found Fabel to be the best. I recommend the most popular item on the menu – parmesan and mayo, it’s simple, yet incredible.
Afternoon: De Pijp Neighborhood
Spend the afternoon exploring De Pijp, a lively and diverse neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere. Wander through its bustling streets, visit the Sarphatipark, and enjoy the mix of cultures reflected in the area’s restaurants and shops.
Late Afternoon: Amsterdam Tulip Museum
This modest museum showcases the history and significance of the Tulip flower in Amsterdam. With many beautiful paintings of the Tulip and a shop full of flowers and bulbs to bring home, this lovely little stop is a nice way to bring in the evening. It also looks great in pictures for all of your Instagramming needs!
Dinner: Smash Burgers
Here at aweedander we are superfans when it comes to smash burgers, and having sampled many of the glorious foods across Europe, we always look out for the best smash burger in town. Having said that, head on over to Le Smash and indulge in Amsterdams best smash.
Evening: Nightlife in Leidseplein
Head on back to your accommodation and get ready for a night in Leidseplein, one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant nightlife areas. Here, you’ll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s nice to start with a few drinks at a local bar, chatting to locals and mingling with new found friends. If you’re feeling funny you can catch a comedy show at Boom Chicago or dance the night away at a nearby club.
To end the night and our time in Amsterdam we grabbed some stroopwaffles and headed for a farewell walk along the canals. The city takes on a magical quality at night, with the many bridges and sinking houses beautifully illuminated with fairy lights and what better way to end your time in Amsterdam than on a high (unless of course, you grabbed some cookies during the day).
