Amsterdam the Netherlands 5 Day Itinerary
Amsterdam 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center
- Morning: Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and take a train to Centraal Station ( approx. 15-20 minutes, €5-10)
- Accommodation: Check-in at a hotel or hostel in the city center, such as the Hotel Nadia or Flying Pig Downtown Hostel
- Lunch: Try some stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage) at De Kas or grab a sandwich at Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx
- Afternoon: Visit the iconic Dam Square, explore the nearby Jordaan neighborhood, and take a stroll along the canals
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Foodhallen, a trendy food market with various vendors
Day 2: Museums and Culture
- Morning: Visit the world-famous Rijksmuseum to see works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch Masters
- Lunch: Grab a bite at the museum’s cafe or head to Café Papeneiland for some traditional Dutch cuisine
- Afternoon: Explore the Van Gogh Museum or visit the Stedelijk Museum for modern and contemporary art
- Evening: Enjoy a scenic canal cruise with Lovers Canal Cruises or take in a show at the National Opera & Ballet
Day 3: History and Architecture
- Morning: Visit the Anne Frank House Museum to learn about the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII
- Lunch: Try some Indonesian cuisine at Tempo Doeloe
- Afternoon: Explore the picturesque canal belt, including the famous Magere Brug and Westertoren church towers
- Evening: Enjoy a drink at Café In ’t Aepjen or take in the views from the rooftop bar of the NEMO Science Center
Day 4: Parks and Markets
- Morning: Visit the beautiful Vondelpark for a stroll or picnic
- Lunch: Grab some street food at the Albert Cuyp Market or try some Surinamese cuisine at Sranang
- Afternoon: Explore the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, known for its boutiques and cafes
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bauta, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes
Day 5: Day Trip or More City Exploration
- Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Haarlem (approx. 20 minutes by train, €5-10) and visit the Grote Markt and St. Bavo’s Church
- Alternative: Spend more time exploring Amsterdam, visiting attractions like the Eye Film Museum or taking a bike tour with Yellow Bike
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at De Silveren Spiegel and reflect on your amazing trip to Amsterdam!
Things to Know
- Amsterdam is a very walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (GVB) or take taxis
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
- Don’t forget to try some of the city’s famous cheese, chocolate, and beer!
- Be respectful of the city’s tolerant attitude towards soft drugs and prostitution
Tips
- Buy an I Amsterdam City Card for discounts and free entry to many attractions
- Consider purchasing a public transportation card for unlimited travel
- Don’t walk in bike lanes or you might get fined!
- Learn some basic Dutch phrases, such as “dank je” (thank you) and “hallo” (hello)
Transportation
- Schiphol Airport to Centraal Station: train (approx. 15-20 minutes, €5-10)
- Public transportation: GVB buses, trams, and metro lines
- Bike rentals available at various locations throughout the city
Other Interests
- Visit the famous Flower Market (open Monday to Saturday)
- Take a guided tour with Amsterdam Canal Tours
- Explore the city’s many parks and gardens, such as the Hortus Botanicus