With just 2 days in Amsterdam, you can experience the very best of the city. From its stunning canals and world-famous museums to mouth-watering Dutch cuisine and lively nightlife, Amsterdam is brimming with incredible sights and activities. To help you maximise your weekend, we’ve created a 2-day itinerary and gathered top tips. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of Amsterdam!

Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Amsterdam

Morning

1. Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam

Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam. Choose from Dutch pancakes, American pancakes, and poffertjes (small Dutch pancakes). Their traditional Dutch pancakes are a must-try!

2. Visit Anne Frank House

Dive into history at the Anne Frank House. This is where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during WWII. It’s a powerful and moving experience. Make sure to book your tickets online to skip the long lines.

3. Canal Cruise

Hop on a canal cruise and see Amsterdam from the water! It’s a fun way to get a feel for the city’s charming canals and beautiful buildings. A one-hour cruise is perfect.

Afternoon

4. Lunch at Foodhallen

Enjoy a tasty lunch at Foodhallen, an indoor food market with all kinds of yummy dishes from around the world. It’s a great spot to refuel.

5. Rijksmuseum

Spend your afternoon at the Rijksmuseum, home to amazing Dutch art and history. Don’t miss the famous paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer!

6. Stroll through Vondelpark

Take a relaxing walk through Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s most famous park. It’s the perfect place to unwind after the museum.

Evening

7. Dinner at The Pantry

The Pantry offers traditional Dutch cuisine in a cosy and welcoming setting. Enjoy classic dishes like stamppot and Dutch pea soup at reasonable prices.

8. Evening at Leidseplein

End your day with a night out at Leidseplein. This lively square is packed with bars, clubs, and live entertainment. Catch a show at the historic theatre or just enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Alternatively, check other things to do at night in Amsterdam.

Day 2: Culture and Local Flavour

Morning

1. Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters

Start your morning at Bakers & Roasters, a lively brunch spot with a mix of New Zealand and Brazilian flavours. Their breakfast will keep you energised for the day.

2. Van Gogh Museum

Visit the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s artwork. It’s an inspiring and colourful experience.

Afternoon

3. Lunch at Albert Cuyp Market

Head to the Albert Cuyp Market for lunch. Try Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and herring, or explore international foods. The market buzzes with energy!

4. Heineken Experience

Tour the Heineken Brewery and learn about the famous beer’s history. The Heineken Experience is interactive and fun, and you’ll get to enjoy a beer tasting at the end.

5. Visit the Rembrandt House Museum

Step into the world of the great painter Rembrandt at his former home and studio. The Rembrandt House Museum showcases his life and work in a fascinating way.

Evening

6. Dinner at Moeders

Have dinner at Moeders (Mothers), where you can try traditional Dutch home-cooked meals. The cosy, nostalgic atmosphere makes it a heartwarming place to eat.

7. Enjoy a Canal-side Walk

Wrap up your trip with a peaceful canal-side walk. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of Amsterdam at night.

If you’ve already seen the main attractions in Amsterdam

Now if you want to spend the weekend in Amsterdam and have already visited the main attractions, here are some things to do in the city that you might consider:

1. Explore NDSM Wharf

This creative hub in a former shipyard is full of street art, quirky cafes, and cool events. It’s a vibrant spot to see the artsy side of Amsterdam.

2. Visit the Wereldmuseum

This museum is packed with fascinating exhibits about cultures from around the world. It’s colourful, educational, and really interesting!

3. Bike Through Amsterdamse Bos

This huge forest park is perfect for a peaceful bike ride. You’ll find beautiful scenery, a petting zoo, and even a pancake house.

4. Check Out the Electric Ladyland Museum

Electric Ladyland Museum is the world’s first museum of fluorescent art! It’s a small but super unique place where everything glows in the dark.

5. Visit the Houseboat Museum

Ever wondered what it’s like to live on a houseboat? This floating museum shows you just that! It’s cosy and charming.

Tips to Maximise Your Weekend in Amsterdam

To help you make the most of your time, we’ve compiled a list of tips that will ensure your weekend in Amsterdam is efficient, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

1. Use Public Transportation

The tram, bus, and metro system in Amsterdam is efficient and easy to navigate. Get a GVB Multi-day ticket for unlimited travel, which saves time and money.

2. Use Luggage Storage Services

If you have a late departure or early arrival, luggage storage services let you explore the city without being weighed down by bags.

3. Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Many attractions in Amsterdam are free, like the floating flower market (Bloemenmarkt), strolling through the beautiful Begijnhof courtyard, or enjoying the street performances at Dam Square. These activities help you save money while still enjoying the city.

4. Book Attractions in Advance

Popular spots like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum can have long lines. Booking tickets online ahead of time helps you avoid waiting.

5. Use an I Amsterdam City Card

This card offers free entry to many museums, free public transportation, and discounts on attractions. It’s a great way to save money and see more.

6. Explore Different Neighbourhoods

Each area in Amsterdam has its own unique charm. Spend time in Jordaan for its quaint streets, De Pijp for its lively vibe, and the Nine Streets for boutique shopping.

7. Try Local Food

Don’t miss out on Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels, bitterballen, and herring. Visit local markets like Albert Cuyp Market for a variety of tasty treats.

8. Visit Lesser-Known Museums

Amsterdam has many hidden gems, like the KattenKabinet (Cat Cabinet) and the  Micropia Museum. These unique spots are less crowded and offer interesting experiences.

FAQs

Is it possible to visit Amsterdam in 2 days?

You can see a lot of Amsterdam in 2 days. With a well-planned itinerary like the one above, you can hit the main attractions, explore different neighbourhoods, and even enjoy some local food and nightlife.

What is Amsterdam best known for?

Amsterdam is best known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly atmosphere. It’s also famous for its museums, such as the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum.

What are the attractions not to miss in Amsterdam?

Don’t miss the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and a canal cruise. Vondelpark and the vibrant Jordaan district are also must-sees.

What food should I try in Amsterdam?

You should definitely try stroopwafels (caramel syrup waffles), bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), herring, and Dutch pancakes. Each one is delicious and a real treat!

What is the nightlife like in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam’s nightlife is lively and diverse, with something for everyone. You can enjoy cosy pubs, trendy bars, lively clubs, and even live music performances. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are two popular areas to check out.

To Sum Up

Amsterdam is a city full of charm, history, and excitement, and in just 2 days, you can get a wonderful taste of all it has to offer. From exploring iconic museums and enjoying the scenic canals to indulging in delicious local food and experiencing the vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone.

After a fun-filled day of sightseeing, unwind and relax at one of our friendly hostels: ClinkNOORD, ClinkCoco, or ClinkMama. Our hostels offer a welcoming atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and a great place to meet fellow travellers. We can’t wait to host you and help make your Amsterdam adventure unforgettable!