Amsterdam, the Netherlands-2-day-itinerary

Amsterdam 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the City’s Charm

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Start at Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam, and admire the Royal Palace.
  • Visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), a beautiful Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Take a short stroll to the nearby Amsterdam Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a scenic boat tour.

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Head to Café Papeneiland for a delicious lunch of traditional Dutch cuisine, including stamppot and herring.
  • Try some local beers, such as Heineken or Amstel.

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Explore the charming Jordaan neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, picturesque canals, and quaint shops.

Evening (6:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

  • Enjoy dinner at De Kas, a cozy restaurant serving modern Dutch cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
  • End the day with a visit to the famous Red Light District, but be respectful of the area’s rules and residents.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Parks

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Visit the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh.
  • Explore the beautiful Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park, featuring walking paths, ponds, and gardens.

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Grab a bite to eat at Café de Jaren, a trendy spot with delicious sandwiches and salads.

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Visit the Stedelijk Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Take a stroll through the charming De Pijp neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Evening (6:00 pm - 10:00 pm)

  • Enjoy dinner at Bauta, serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.
  • End the day with a visit to the Leidseplein, a lively square filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Nadia: A cozy, family-run hotel in the heart of Amsterdam, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.
  • Airbnb: Rent a charming apartment or houseboat in one of Amsterdam’s picturesque neighborhoods.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Respect local laws and regulations, including those related to cannabis use and the Red Light District.
  • Learn some basic Dutch phrases, such as “dank je” (thank you) and “hallo” (hello).

Transportation

  • Trams: An efficient way to navigate the city, with tram stops throughout Amsterdam.
  • Bicycles: Rent a bike and explore the city like a local.
  • Walking: Amsterdam is a very walkable city, but be mindful of cyclists and trams.

Tips

  • Buy an I Amsterdam City Card, which grants access to many attractions and public transportation.
  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather and pack accordingly.
  • Don’t forget to try some of Amsterdam’s famous stroopwafels (thin waffles with caramel-like filling) at a local market or cafe.

Other Things of Interest

  • Anne Frank House: A museum dedicated to the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII, hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam.
  • Flower Market: A colorful market selling a wide variety of flowers, including tulips.
  • Jazz and Blues Clubs: Amsterdam has a thriving jazz and blues scene, with many clubs throughout the city.