Amsterdam the Netherlands 7 Day Itinerary
Amsterdam 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Centre
- Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and check-in to your hotel or hostel. Recommended stay at Hotel Europa 92 or Flying Pig Downtown Hostel.
- Afternoon: Start at Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam’s historic centre. Visit the Royal Palace and take a stroll through the adjacent Nieuwe Kerk.
- Evening: Explore the lively Jordaan neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and picturesque canals. Enjoy dinner at De Foodhallen, a trendy food market with various vendors.
Day 2: Art and Culture
- Morning: Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
- Afternoon: Head to the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh. Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
- Evening: Enjoy a scenic canal cruise with Lovers Canal Cruises or Blue Boat Company.
Day 3: History and Memorials
- Morning: Visit the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII. Book tickets in advance.
- Afternoon: Stop by the Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum) to learn about the Netherlands’ role in WWII.
- Evening: Pay respects at the Homomonument, a memorial for LGBTQ+ individuals persecuted during WWII.
Day 4: Parks and Markets
- Morning: Relax in the beautiful Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park. Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Afternoon: Visit the Albert Cuyp Market, a bustling outdoor market selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Kas, a restaurant located in a former greenhouse.
Day 5: Day Trip to Haarlem
- Morning: Take a day trip to Haarlem (20 minutes by train). Visit the Grote Markt, St. Bavo’s Church, and the Frans Hals Museum.
- Afternoon: Explore Haarlem’s charming streets, canals, and shops. Don’t miss the Corrie ten Boom House, a museum dedicated to the Dutch resistance during WWII.
- Evening: Return to Amsterdam and enjoy dinner at Guts & Glory, serving modern Dutch cuisine.
Day 6: Alternative Amsterdam
- Morning: Explore the alternative neighbourhood of De Pijp, known for its vintage shops, street art, and multicultural atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Visit the EYE Film Museum, showcasing a unique collection of film-related artifacts.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Bauta, serving international cuisine with a focus on sustainability.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
- Afternoon: Depart from Amsterdam, bringing back memories of your amazing trip!
Things to Know
- Amsterdam is a popular destination, so book tickets and accommodations in advance to avoid long queues and high prices.
- Be mindful of Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets and pedestrian zones.
- The Netherlands has a tolerant attitude towards cannabis use, but be aware that it’s still illegal for tourists.
Transportation
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is well-connected to the city centre by train, bus, or taxi.
- Use public transportation (GVB) or bike rentals to get around the city.
- Consider purchasing an I Amsterdam City Card for discounts and free entry to many attractions.
Tips
- Be prepared for unpredictable Dutch weather with waterproof gear and layers.
- Learn some basic Dutch phrases, such as “dank je” (thank you) and “hallo” (hello).
- Don’t forget to try some of Amsterdam’s famous stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage) or herring at a local eatery.
Other Things of Interest
- Take a day trip to the nearby city of Utrecht, known for its picturesque canals and medieval architecture.
- Visit the Amsterdam Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the city’s many museums, such as the Stedelijk Museum (modern art) or the ECOM Children’s Museum.
Enjoy your time in Amsterdam!