Amsterdam is easily one of the most alluring cities in Europe, and summer is the best time of year to visit the Netherlands capital to explore all it has to offer. Steeped in rich history and cultural charm, it’s just a short one hour, 15 minute flight from London – but if you’ve got time to take the scenic route you can also ride from London to Amsterdam via Paris on the train in under four hours and enjoy endless scenic views along the way.
With its picturesque canals, historic attractions and mouth-watering cuisine, there’s a lot to see and do in Amsterdam, but with a well-organised schedule you can pack the highlights into just four days. Here’s how to spend 72 hours in the city, from where to stay and eat to the sights and attractions you won’t want to miss.
Day 1: Iconic Amsterdam
Morning exploration: Canals and coffee shops
Amsterdam’s famous canals are one of its biggest draws, so to really get acquainted with the city, rent a bike or join a guided boat tour that will take you along the idyllic waterways and take in charming canal houses along the way.
All that cycling is thirsty work, so be sure to stop in at one of the city’s best loved coffee shops to immerse yourself in the local cafe culture and get a caffeine hit to see you through the rest of your packed day of sight-seeing. The riverside Café de Jaren is an excellent choice and from here, you can enjoy scenic views as you watch the world go by.
Lunchtime is the perfect opportunity to sample some traditional Dutch cuisine, but to do so, head away from the main tourist areas and into where the locals go if you’re looking for an authentic experience. Try Heemelrijck, a third-generation family-run eatery on Van Woustraat where you can sample meat stews, snert (green split pea and pork soup) or stamppot (sausage and vegetables with potatoes).
Afternoon delights: Museums and markets
Once you’re suitably satiated, make your way over to the Museumplein area for a relaxed afternoon of perusing some of the city’s best museums. Make the Rijksmuseumis your first port of call, where you can gaze in awe at masterpieces by the likes of Dutch artists Rembrandt and Vermeer, amongst others. Next, it’s onto the Van Gogh Museum, which handily, is located just next door, and offers the chance to admire the biggest collection of his works anywhere in the world at your leisure.
If you’ve got any gas left in the tank once you’re done, then the Albert Cuyp Market is also worth paying a visit to. As the largest street market in the Netherlands, it’s a great place to pick up some traditional Dutch snacks, whether it’s a stroopwafel for a much-needed energy boost to keep you going until dinnertime, or some Dutch cheeses to take away with you.
Evening experience: Local cuisine and nightlife
For dinner, be sure to book a table at one of Amsterdam’s most sought-after fine dining eateries in advance. Traditional Dutch restaurant Moeders serves up more hearty home-cooked meals and will never disappoint – but if you’re looking for somewhere really special, try two Michelin-starred Ciel Bleu, located in the Hotel Okura on Ferdinand Bolstraat, for creative dishes and exceptional service.
If the night is still young once you’ve finished eating, then try the Rembrandtplein area or the Leidseplein district for live music at one of the many bars and venues found here, or for a nightcap before heading back to your hotel for some much-needed rest.
Day 2: Cultural deep dive
Morning adventure: Historical landmarks
To really get a feel for Amsterdam, you’ll want to spend your next day immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and storied history. Start your day in the city’s historic centre, at the Dam Square, which is the perfect jumping-off point for visiting major attractions like the Royal Palace and the National Monument, which was built to commemorate World War II. Pack some tissues, because it can make for emotional viewing, and you’ll most certainly need them for when you head to the Anne Frank House afterwards. Located on the banks of the Prinsengracht Canal, this biographical museum is dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist, and provides a haunting insight into her life and that of the wider Jewish community during the war.
To beat the often lengthy queues, book your tickets online in advance to ensure that you’ll be able to make the most of your limited time in Amsterdam.
Afternoon discoveries: Art scenes and parks
Make your way over to the Jordaan district for the afternoon, where you’ll experience an edgier side to Amsterdam, with its narrow cobbled streets, avant-garde boutiques and quaint cafes. The Noordermarkt is also in the vicinity and offers an intriguing insight into local life; always bustling and awash with stalls selling organic food, flowers, antiques and more, it’s a great place to while away a few hours as you take it all in.
The Jordaan district is also home to a dynamic art scene, with a myriad of galleries here to peruse – so if you didnt get enough during yesterday’s cultural exploration then now is the time to satisfy your appetite. The Houseboat Museum offers a unique perspective on canalside life, and afterwards, it’s just a short stroll over to the city’s famous Vondelpark – a large, open green space where you can relax and recharge after a busy day.
Evening vibes: Dinner in the Jordaan District
For dinner, it’s back to the main throng of the Jordaan District for a show-stopping dining experience at Michelin-starred Daalder. With owner and chef Dennis Huwaë at the helm, its ten-course menu draws on influences from across the globe and comprises innovative dishes with flair. The restaurant’s setting in the monumental Het Sieraad building adds to the atmosphere and all together, promises an evening you won’t forget.
Day 3: Contemporary meets quirky
Morning wanderlust: Creative neighbourhoods
Amsterdam is home to a plethora of creative and inspiring neighbourhoods still to be experienced, so on your final morning in the city, make this your key objective. Start in cosmopolitan De Pijp, an area that is known for its impressive street art and take a leisurely stroll in the Sarphatipark. After a spot of lunch to line your stomach, head to one of the world’s most famous breweries; the Heineken Experience. Here, you can learn how this much-loved lager is made and of course, enjoy a tasting session.
Afternoon adventures: Unique Amsterdam experiences
Many visitors don’t make time for Amsterdam’s quirkier range of attractions, but they are well worth the time. The Electric Ladyland museum is lots of fun, with exhibitions centered around fluorescent art. The NDSM Shipyard is also a great spot for more street art and is home to an array of artist studios.
Evening wrap-up: Sunset cruise and farewell drinks
You’re probably wondering when you’ll get the chance to see some more of the city’s famous canals – or even better, get onto them, and dinnertime offers the perfect chance to enjoy your first taste. There are a variety of cruise tours to choose from, ranging from full locally-inspired dining experiences on the water to cheese and wine or just unlimited drinks, so book yourself in for a sunset departure so that you can enjoy views of the city’s spectacular architecture in its very best light. Golden hour is a great time for getting some atmospheric photos.
Afterwards, head to the L’ADAM rooftop bar for some farewell drinks whilst taking in awe-inspiring panoramic views down over the city.
Where to stay: Best accommodation for a short stay
For a luxurious stay and a handy base from which to explore Amsterdam, check in at Hotel Okura, a refined high-end hotel spread over 23 floors in the trendy De Pijp food quarter and boasts its own Michelin-starred restaurant and an opulent spa.
The Amstel Hotel is a five-star hotel characterised by a rich history of genuine hospitality and exceptional luxury. The hotel, with its unique location on the Amstel, received its first guests in 1867 and has since been known for its majestic appearance and homely warmth.
If you prefer more of a boutique experience without compromising on luxury, then Breitner House should do it, and offers a quieter base just outside of the centre. The champagne breakfast is a highlight.
Tips and tricks for navigating Amsterdam
With so much to see and do in Amsterdam you’ll want to try and get your bearings as quickly as possible, so invest in a map or download an app like Citymapper, which will help you work out how to get around as quickly and efficiently as possible.
You’ll notice that the main mode of transport in Amsterdam is by bike, so if you’re up for the challenge then consider hiring one out. There are cycle lanes everywhere to make navigating the city by bike simple and stress-free.
If you plan on using public transport whilst in the city, then buy an OV-chipkaart – a travel card that will allow you to take the trams, buses and ferries operated by GVB.
Off the beaten path: Alternative Amsterdam activities
If you fancy venturing a little further afield to the surrounding areas of Amsterdam then there’s plenty more to see and do, too. In springtime, the Keukenhof tulip fields are a must, with row upon row of colourful flowers as far as the eye can see making for some truly idyllic photo opportunities.
The charming village of Zaans Schanse is worth the trip at any time of year, and promises to whisk you back in time with its traditional windmills, clog making workshops and the chance to sample yet more local delicacies.
