We visited Amsterdam back in 2022 and it was such a beautiful! Very different city than we had visited before. Amsterdam surprised us in many ways, from its means of transportation (canals, canals, more canals and bikes, bikes and more bikes!) to its acceptance of taboo subjects! Amsterdam is a city that is picture worthy in very street/canal corner! If you are a history or art lover, this is a visit to add to your list! This 4-day Amsterdam itinerary will help you make the most of your trip in this extraordinary Dutch capital!
Day 1: Explore Amsterdam by Foot and Water
We always recommend reserving a Guided Tour on your first day in any city. Taking a guided tour on your first day in a new city is a smart move for several reasons. It provides an immediate and quick overview of the city’s layout, helping you get your bearings and understand the geography, which is invaluable for navigating during the remaining days. A guided tour also introduces you to the city’s key landmarks, historical context, and cultural nuances, enriching your overall experience to continue enjoying on your own.
Your first day in Amsterdam is all about getting a feel for the city’s unique charm. A mix of walking and canal cruising ensures you see the best of its highlights on your day 1.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Breakfast | You might need to sleep in a little on day 1 if you are jet lagged. No rush, enjoy your coffee and breakfast because the recommend walking tour doesn’t start until 10:30AM |
| 10:30 AM | Guided Walking Tour Highly recommend, this top rated tour! | Join a local guide to explore Amsterdam’s key sights, all in one tour. Sites you will see: Beurs van Berlage Damrak Our Lord in the Attic Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder Chinatown The Waag Oostindisch Huis Waterlooplein Market The Amstel Oudemanhuispoort Royal Palace Amsterdam |
| 1:00 PM | Late Lunch at a Local Café near Dam Square | Grab lunch at a near by café. There ton of restaurant options within walking distance of the Dam Square (ending site of your walking tour) |
| 3:00 PM (No reason to rush from lunch) | 2-Hour Canal Tour We did this tour. The boat didn’t feel to large, our group was about 12 people and we offered drinks and snacks the entire time. | After lunch hop on a canal boat, relax and enjoy a scenic tour through Amsterdam’s iconic waterways. |
| 5:00 PM | Stroll Through Jordaan | Take a 30 minute walk to the area of Jordaan to end the day exploring this charming neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner in Jordaan | Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Dutch pancakes or fresh seafood. We ate at Moeders and loved it! |
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Art and History
Amsterdam’s world-class museums are the focus of Day 2. Dive deep into art, history, and culture.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Van Gogh Museum | Start the day with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum. Marvel at the artist’s masterpieces, including “Sunflowers” and “The Bedroom.” |
| 11:30 AM | Rijksmuseum | Explore the Rijksmuseum, home to Dutch Golden Age masterpieces like Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch.” |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch at Museumplein | Take a break with lunch at Museumplein. Enjoy a sandwich or salad while admiring the surrounding park. |
| 3:00 PM | Anne Frank House | Visit the Anne Frank House to learn about her life and reflect on the impact of World War II. Make sure to book tickets in advance. |
| 5:30 PM | Stedelijk Museum or FOAM | End the museum day at either the Stedelijk Museum (modern art) or FOAM (photography). Both offer unique perspectives on art and design. |
| 7:30 PM | Dinner at a Canal-Side Restaurant | Relax with dinner by the canals, enjoying the serene evening ambiance. |
Day 3: Day three of this Amsterdam Itinerary will be to visit it’s countryside: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken
Escape the city and explore the Dutch countryside, famous for its windmills, cheese, and traditional wooden clogs.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart for Zaanse Schans | Take a short trip to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village showcasing historic windmills and Dutch traditions. |
| 9:00 AM | Tour Windmills and Clog Workshop | Visit working windmills and watch a clog-making demonstration. Learn about the history and craft of these Dutch icons. |
| 12:00 PM | Cheese Tasting in Edam | Sample delicious Dutch cheeses at a local cheese farm. Gouda, Edam, and smoked cheeses are must-tries. |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch in Volendam | Stop for a traditional Dutch lunch in this charming fishing village. Try fresh herring or Dutch pea soup. |
| 3:00 PM | Explore Marken | Visit the quaint fishing village of Marken, known for its colorful houses and maritime history. |
| 6:00 PM | Return to Amsterdam | Relax and enjoy the evening back in the city. Consider a casual dinner or a nightcap at a local bar. |
Day 4: Historical and Culinary Exploration
Your final day in Amsterdam is all about diving deeper into the city’s rich history and indulging in its culinary delights, while leaving time for personal exploration and souvenir shopping.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Historical Tour | Join a walking tour focused on Amsterdam’s history, covering sites like the Jewish Quarter, Rembrandt House, and De Waag. |
| 12:00 PM | Food Tour | Discover Amsterdam’s culinary scene with a guided food tour. Sample stroopwafels, poffertjes, and local beers. |
| 2:30 PM | Free Time for Shopping | Spend the afternoon exploring local boutiques, markets, and souvenir shops. The Flower Market and De 9 Straatjes are great options. |
| 5:00 PM | Relax by the Canals | Enjoy your final hours in the city with a relaxing stroll or a coffee at a canal-side café. |
| 7:00 PM | Farewell Dinner | End your trip with a memorable dinner at a rooftop restaurant or a cozy bistro. Toast to an incredible Amsterdam adventure! |
Conclusion
This 4-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of exploration, culture, and relaxation. Whether Discover the best of Amsterdam with our detailed 4-day itinerary. Explore iconic canals, world-class museums, and save planning time with this ready-to-use travel guide.
Other unforgettable cities to consider for a 3-4 day vacation! Consider visit one of these as part of your European vacation:
Check out our travel itineraries for other cities that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime!
Barcelona, Paris, Lisbon, Rome
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