A Complete Amsterdam 3-Day Itinerary (Based on 3 Visits)

Amsterdam’s appeal is instant as soon as you leave the main station. The Netherlands’ largest city is a wonderful network of picturesque canals, beautiful houses, and fantastic museums. Regardless of whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a romantic weekend getaway, Amsterdam has something for everyone. 

However, many visitors don’t get to truly see Amsterdam. Having been to the Dutch capital three times (and almost moving here in 2018), I’ve explored several corners of this multifaceted city. With that wisdom, I’m bringing you this complete Amsterdam itinerary. 

Keep reading and I’ll guide you along for 3 perfect days in Amsterdam. You can follow this itinerary to the book if you wish; alternatively, feel free to take what you like and add your own twist to the rest. 

Day 1: Exploring Amsterdam’s Historic Core

You probably came to Amsterdam with a very specific picture of the city in mind, and exploring its historic center is a must for everyone. Spend your day wandering around Amsterdam’s main canals, marveling at its stunning architecture, and envying the people who live in those buildings. 

Personally, I think that the Canals of Amsterdam get more scenic as you head further away from the station. The crowds are still big, but they’re not on the same level as you branch further out. Herengracht and Keizersgracht are my two favorite canals; be sure to allocate enough time to both. 

Besides aimlessly wandering around the canals, I recommend checking out the Damrak houses—also known as the Dancing Houses. This is especially true if you’re a photographer. These houses are back in the direction of Amsterdam Central Station; they’re around a six-minute walk away.

Exploring the Canals From a Unique Angle

Amsterdam reminds me a lot of Copenhagen—where I live—and the main similarity is how much water there is. With this in mind, exploring the Dutch capital from its canals is an absolute must while you’re in town. 

Several boat tours operate in Amsterdam. Some, such as this one, are closer to the standard audio tours that you might be used to elsewhere. Others, meanwhile, give you unlimited drinks and food. 

I personally recommend checking out the canals by boat during the day, but you’ll also find numerous evening tours if you would rather go at this time. 

Day 2: Jordaan and Museum-Hopping

Now that you’ve spent a day sightseeing in Amsterdam, I recommend delving deeper into the local culture. This city has been an important hub of art and creativity for centuries, as you’ll quickly discover on your second day. 

Exploring Jordaan 

Jordaan is my favorite neighborhood in Amsterdam, and if I ever moved to the Dutch capital, this is where I’d choose to live. Tourists are fewer on the ground here, and the vibe is very laid-back. We spent a full afternoon exploring this part of the city in October 2023, and personally, I’d have been happy to stay for longer. 

This part of Amsterdam is, in my opinion, home to its most picturesque streets. You’ll also find plenty of those typical “brown bars” that are a main fixture in many Dutch cities. The poignant and prominent Anne Frank Huis is located in Jordaan, too; buy your tickets in advance if you want to visit. 

While you’re in Jordaan, stop for lunch at Café Sonneveld. Besides trying bitteraballen—a staple in Dutch pubs—I also recommend the apple pie. As mentioned in my practical Amsterdam travel guide, we enjoyed them so much that we bought two 😋.

NEMO Science Museum 

I visited the NEMO Science Museum in 2017; it’s an interactive museum that also happens to be located in a really cool building. This museum is the biggest science museum in the Netherlands, and it’s located not far from the city’s main canals. 

Besides visiting the museum, I also recommend checking out the rooftop. It’s free to walk on, and you’ll get a cool view of Amsterdam from the top. You can buy entry tickets for the museum below.

Ajax Stadium Tour 

If you’re a big football/soccer fan like I am, visiting the Johan Cruijff ArenA is a must-add to your Amsterdam itinerary. Ajax, the most successful team in the Netherlands, plays its home games here.

I visited in the summer of 2017 and had a great time. We could access the changing rooms to see where the players prepare for each game, along with going pitch-side and visiting the managers’ dugouts. I also got to learn more about Ajax’s history and the club’s ethos. 

I purchased the standard ticket, which gave access to a handful of places around the stadium. However, it’s also possible to book a VIP tour—which includes a drink and a scarf.  

To get to the stadium, take the Metro to the Bijlmer Arena and walk around 6 minutes from there. 

Exploring Amsterdam’s Artsy Side

Mentioning Amsterdam and creativity in the sentence would be foolish without talking about Vincent Van Gogh. Arguably the Netherlands’ most famous artist is celebrated in his own museum, which I recommend checking out if you’re spending some time in the Dutch capital. 

At the museum, you’ll see some of the artist’s most famous works. You can also get an audio guide if you wish, which is available in multiple languages. To be honest, I normally don’t use these—but the option is at least there if you wish. 

You can buy a standard ticket for the Van Gogh Museum, which includes access to the main exhibitions. However, if you plan to also take a canal cruise, consider combining your tickets. 

It’s worth noting that the Van Gogh Museum is NOT included in the Amsterdam Card. 

Day 3: Oud-West, Heineken, and Vondelparken

I would recommend taking a day trip to Haarlem if you want to explore other parts of the Netherlands, but if not, you can still have a fun third day in Amsterdam. We’ll mix some of its most popular attractions and also head off the beaten path in this part of your itinerary. 

Exploring Oud-West 

Oud-West is one of Amsterdam’s more upscale neighborhoods; it somewhat reminds me of Little Venice in London. This district is well off the tourist trail, making it a great choice if you’re interested in a more authentic vibe. 

Here, you’ll find plenty of unique restaurants, cafés, shops, and markets; De Hallen is a particular local favorite. 

Oud-West is, like much of Amsterdam, built around a couple of canals. From here, it’s quite easy to reach the airport by bus if you wish to continue your onward journey. 

The Heineken Brewery Experience 

Heineken and Amstel are the two main beer brands in Amsterdam, and if you’re a fan of the liquid stuff, consider adding the Heineken Brewery Experience to your itinerary. Here, you’ll learn about the brand’s history and how it became one of the most popular beer brands in Europe and further afield. 

Of course, you’ll also get to try some Heineken beers yourself. You can buy a standard ticket in advance; if you’re planning to do a canal cruise, you can combine the brewery tour with a canal cruise ticket to save money. 

Relax in the Vondelpark

The Vondelpark is one of Amsterdam’s main meeting spots on a warm summer’s day, but it’s worth checking out year-round. It’s close to the Van Gogh Museum and a lovely green space right in the heart of the city. 

At this park, you’ll find a handful of lakes. There’s also a pretty little garden. If you’re visiting during the summer, consider bringing some snacks from a local grocery store and having a picnic. 

Did You Know That…

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