Amsterdam Netherlands 7 Day Itinerary

Amsterdam 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and check-in to your accommodation. Recommended hotels:
  • Afternoon: Start at Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam. Visit the Royal Palace and take a stroll through the lively streets of the Red Light District.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Kas, a cozy restaurant serving seasonal dishes. Try their famous stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage).

Day 2: Art and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the world-famous Rijksmuseum, home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and history.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Van Gogh Museum, showcasing the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works.
  • Evening: Relax at CafĂ© Papeneiland, a charming spot for a coffee or beer. Try their famous apple tart.

Day 3: Canals and Architecture

  • Morning: Take a guided boat tour of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Anne Frank House Museum, dedicated to the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII.
  • Evening: Dine at De Foodhallen, a trendy food market with various vendors serving international cuisine.

Day 4: Day Trip to Haarlem

  • Morning: Take a short train ride (20 minutes) to Haarlem, a charming city just outside Amsterdam.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Grote Markt, St. Bavo’s Church, and the Frans Hals Museum.
  • Evening: Return to Amsterdam and enjoy dinner at Bauta, serving modern Dutch cuisine.

Day 5: Parks and Markets

  • Morning: Visit the Vondelpark, a beautiful green space perfect for a picnic or stroll.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Albert Cuyp Market, a bustling outdoor market selling everything from flowers to souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Moeders, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dutch dishes.

Day 6: Jordaan Neighborhood

  • Morning: Wander through the charming Jordaan neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, quaint shops, and picturesque canals.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Amsterdam Canal Museum, showcasing the history of Amsterdam’s canal ring.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bocca, serving Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Depart Amsterdam and head back home.

Things to Know

  • Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city; consider renting a bike to explore the city.
  • Be prepared for variable weather; pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • The Netherlands has a cashless economy; credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Respect local laws and regulations, especially in the Red Light District.

Transportation

  • Schiphol Airport is easily accessible by train (20 minutes) or taxi (30-40 minutes).
  • Amsterdam has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metro lines.
  • Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable public transport card.

Tips

  • Learn some basic Dutch phrases to show respect for the local culture.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas; keep valuables secure.
  • Take advantage of Amsterdam’s many free museums and attractions on certain days of the week or month.

Other Things of Interest

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and relaxation, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in Amsterdam!