Top Things to Do in Amsterdam in 3 Days

Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, pulses with a rhythm all its own. Renowned for its picturesque canal system, rich history, and bustling cultural atmosphere, Amsterdam offers an ideal destination for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a brief holiday, spending three days exploring Amsterdam is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in its unique charm and discover the Things to Do in Amsterdam.

Recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing three incredible days exploring the cobblestone streets, ancient houses, and modern hotspots of Amsterdam. From museums showcasing centuries-old art to cozy cafés beside lively squares, Amsterdam perfectly blends the old with the new. Here, every street corner tells a story, and sustainability is not just a slogan but a way of life. Join me as we discover the best activities and attractions in this lovely and stylish capital of the Netherlands.

Day 1: Exploring the City Center

1. Morning Canal Cruise

Amsterdam is often dubbed the “Venice of the North” thanks to its enchanting historical canal system. A canal cruise is an essential experience during your visit to Amsterdam, and it’s definitely something you should add to your activity list. Cruising the canals offers a fantastic way to explore Amsterdam from a fresh perspective. During the tour, the guide will point out significant landmarks and picturesque scenery along the canals. The canal cruise is an ideal choice if you’re short on time to walk around and explore the entire area, as it provides a brief yet romantic and comfortable glimpse of Amsterdam.

Many cruises depart from Damrak, just near the Amsterdam Central Station. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canal-side houses during your journey! While on board, you’ll have the chance to capture unique photos of Amsterdam from a lower vantage point, including reflections of the cityscape on the water, creating memorable moments.

2. Visiting the Anne Frank House

When in Amsterdam, one must not miss visiting the Anne Frank House located at Prinsengracht 263, right in the heart of the city. Reading about Anne’s life through her diary is fascinating, but stepping into the very space where she and her family hid during those tumultuous times offers a profoundly different and moving experience.

This tranquil canal house, now transformed into a museum, features a permanent exhibition that not only tells the life story of Anne Frank but also serves as a space for reflection on human rights and discrimination. Here, you will gain a deep and humane insight, enhancing your understanding of the importance of protecting individual rights and freedoms under all circumstances.

The museum’s space is quite limited, so the number of visitors allowed entry at the same time is restricted. To ensure you can visit during your trip to Amsterdam, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance through the museum’s website.

Admission fees:

• Adults: 14 €
• Children from 10 to 17 years old: 7 €
• Children under 10 years old: 1 €

3. Strolling through Jordaan

Jordaan is a charming neighborhood nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, celebrated for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. The allure of Jordaan extends beyond its architectural beauty to its convenient location, just a short walk from the Anne Frank House, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Amsterdam.

As you wander along the canals, you will encounter quaint shops, unique houseboats, and savor the exquisite flavors from local restaurants and cafes. Jordan is not only one of the most beautiful areas in Amsterdam but also a place for experiences, discoveries, and memorable photography. To fully appreciate the beauty and ambiance of Jordan, take your time to walk around, get lost in its streets, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

4. Exploring the Red Light Area in Amsterdam (De Wallen)

How can one miss a visit to the Red Light District while exploring Amsterdam? This area is one of the most talked-about and vibrant spots in the city. The glowing red neon lights and signs advertising various adult services create a vivid and unique scene. Through the windows, you can see sex workers in provocative attire advertising their services, a completely legal and recognized activity in this district.

Not far from the dazzling lights of the Red Light District, you’ll find the Oude Kerk, the oldest parish church in Amsterdam. It’s fascinating to note that right next to the sacred and ancient space of the church lies a bustling area famous for its coffee shops that legally sell and serve cannabis. This juxtaposition is a distinctive aspect of Amsterdam’s culture, drawing large numbers of tourists to visit, explore, and experience.

Day 2: Exploring the Suburbs and Art

1. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is not only the most visited museum in the Netherlands but also serves as a center for art and history, housing masterpieces from the nation’s Golden Age. Renowned for paintings like Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’ and Vermeer’s ‘The Milkmaid’, the museum offers a deep insight into the art and cultural heritage of the country.

A visit to the museum can take several hours due to its large size and the extensive collection on display, so be prepared to spend ample time here. Additionally, the location of the Rijksmuseum is conveniently close to the Van Gogh Museum, about a ten-minute walk away, allowing you to visit both museums in one day.

With amenities like a café and a restaurant within the museum premises, you can take a break and enjoy a meal without having to leave the museum. This is a significant plus for those looking to immerminate themselves in a day filled with art without interruptions.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)

Admission fees:

• Adults: 22.50 €
• Under 18: Free

2. Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum immerses you in the world of one of the greatest artists, making it an essential destination when visiting Amsterdam. The museum houses a vast collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works, including over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and more than 750 letters he wrote.

Key works such as “Sunflowers,” “The Bedroom,” “Starry Night Over the Rhone,” and “Irises” showcase Van Gogh’s talent and unique style of painting. These pieces are not just paintings; they convey deep emotions and provide a unique perspective on the world around Van Gogh.

Visiting the Van Gogh Museum typically takes about two hours, depending on your level of interest and the time spent on each piece. The museum attracts millions of visitors annually, not only for the artistic value of the works but also for the story of Van Gogh’s life and career.

Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily) Admission fees:

• Adults: 22 €
• Under 18: Free

Tip: The I Amsterdam City Card includes free admission to both the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.

3. A Romantic Afternoon at Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans can make you feel as though you are stepping into a vibrant postcard of the countryside you might have dreamed about as a child. Imagine strolling along cobblestone paths surrounded by dark green wooden houses with distinctive Dutch architecture. With every step, you can breathe in the fresh country air, hear the whisper of windmills, and smell the scent of fresh cheese being made on-site. Upon seeing images of Zaanse Schans online, I knew I had to visit and promptly added it to my must-see list.

When you visit the wooden clog workshops, you not only get to see artisans crafting beautiful clogs but can also try your hand at making them, taking home a memorable souvenir. And don’t forget to sample the local cheeses like Gouda and Edam available at small shops along the way; you will enjoy their rich, unforgettable flavors.

Day 3: Enjoying and Exploring Local Life

1. City Exploration by Bicycle

Just like in Copenhagen or Strasbourg, cycling is a part of urban culture, but in Amsterdam, this experience is elevated by an extensive network of bike lanes that cover the city, connecting every nook through historic canals and lines of verdant trees. Rent a bicycle and start your journey along the canals, where you can witness the everyday life of locals.

Not only can you visit well-known spots like the Skinny Bridge, Anne Frank House, the charming Jordaan area, and the Red Light District, but you can also cycle to nearby cities thanks to highways with dedicated bike lanes. This is a fantastic way to explore while also getting some exercise.

If you prefer an organized cycling tour of Amsterdam, consider the following reputable bike rental services, each offering a unique experience:

• Yellow Bike: “Yellow Bike highlights the exploration of Amsterdam with its distinctive yellow bikes, providing exciting bike tours that allow tourists to enjoy the city’s unique beauty and culture authentically.”
• Black Bike: “Black Bike stands out with its fleet of black bikes, offering a range from traditional to electric models, accompanied by tours that delve into Amsterdam’s local beauty.”
• MacBike: “MacBike, a long-standing and reputable bike rental company in Amsterdam, offers a variety of bicycles suitable for all ages, including electric bikes and city tours.”

2. Fun and Relaxation at Vondelpark

Vondelpark, the largest and most famous park in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, attracts about 10 million visitors each year. It is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists, ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, relaxing, and taking photos. Inside the park, you can explore numerous monuments, water features, and an outdoor stage, along with a children’s playground and café.

Vondelpark is maintained clean and litter-free, highlighting its expansive green space, which is perfect for picnics and gatherings with friends. The park also offers facilities such as tennis courts and play areas, enriching the experience for visitors.

On warm days, Vondelpark is the perfect place to relax under the sunlight or in the shade of lush trees. In the afternoon, the park becomes a peaceful setting ideal for walking, running, or biking, where you can enjoy the sound of birds chirping right in the heart of the city.

Tip: Be sure to visit ‘t Blauwe Theehuis – a café with unique round Art Deco architecture from the 1930s, located within Vondelpark. Here, you can enjoy a coffee or beer while admiring the surrounding landscape.

3. Shopping in the Nine Streets (9 Straatjes)

The Nine Streets area is one of the most enchanting parts of Amsterdam, recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Renowned for its rich history and distinctive urban landscape, including historic canals, this area offers a unique shopping and dining experience. It consists of nine quaint streets that form a complex network featuring fashionable boutiques, independent shops, and cozy cafés.

You could spend an entire afternoon meandering through these streets, exploring fashion stores, antique shops, and bookstores, or simply sitting at a canal-side café enjoying the tranquil scenery. Every corner here has something special to discover.

If you’re looking for a delicious meal, the Nine Streets will not disappoint. With a variety of choices from local dishes to international cuisine, you can enjoy everything from a salmon Poke bowl to the famous Eggs Benedict at restaurants like Pluk Amsterdam. Don’t forget to visit the unique souvenir shops where you can find the perfect gifts to remember your trip by.

As your days of wandering through Amsterdam come to an end, there’s no better place than De Negen Straatjes to spend your final moments. With its picturesque narrow streets, unique fashion boutiques, and inviting cafés, this shopping area is not just the heart of the city but also a perfect spot to linger. Take your time to wander, explore, and soak in the atmosphere, carrying away beautiful memories of a city full of charm.

Getting to Central Amsterdam

Traveling from the airport to the center of Amsterdam is both convenient and straightforward. From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, there is a direct train to Amsterdam Central Station. The train ticket costs 4.50 euros for a one-way fare and the journey takes about 20 minutes.

This is a fast and efficient way to reach the city center, allowing you to start exploring Amsterdam right upon arrival. Besides the train, you also have the option to take a taxi or an airport shuttle service for a more comfortable trip if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or prefer a direct route to your accommodation.

Getting Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam is renowned for its efficient and diverse public transportation system. Visitors can easily navigate the city using various modes such as trams, metros, buses, and even ferries, with services primarily provided by GVB. For added convenience, visitors can use the I Amsterdam City Card, which offers unlimited public transport usage and free entry to numerous museums. Additionally, the Amsterdam Travel Ticket and Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket are excellent options for those who want to explore not only the city center but also the surrounding areas.

Bicycling: Biking is a popular mode of transportation in Amsterdam and reflects a part of the local culture. The city offers numerous bike rental points and features well-designed, spacious, and safe bike lanes suitable for both beginners and regular cyclists.

Walking: Given its friendly size and scale, walking around Amsterdam is also an enjoyable experience, particularly in the city center where you can easily walk to major tourist spots without relying on public transport. However, from my personal view, renting a bike might be a better choice. It’s the quickest and most beautiful way to see the sights. Indeed, it is the best way to live like a local and explore Amsterdam fully and enjoyably.

Places to stay amsterdam

For a convenient and memorable travel experience in Amsterdam, we recommend choosing accommodations in the city center for your 3-day stay. This location allows you easy access to popular tourist attractions, including museums, shopping districts, and vibrant cultural areas. However, be aware that hotels in the city center tend to be more expensive than those in the suburbs. Therefore, it’s advisable to book your accommodation as soon as you finalize your travel dates and itinerary to ensure the best selection of lodging at reasonable prices.

When is the best time to travel to amsterdam

Amsterdam experiences a temperate maritime climate, offering four distinct seasons without extreme weather, making it an ideal destination year-round. The best time to explore Amsterdam is arguably in the spring, when the city comes alive with cool, gradually warming weather. This is also the season when tulips bloom, adding a vibrant array of colors to the cityscape.

Like other Northern European capitals, Amsterdam becomes busier as the weather warms up. Outdoor venues buzz with activity, providing plenty of opportunities to mingle with locals, enjoy live music, and participate in events, as well as outdoor activities like walking tours.

Conversely, winter in Amsterdam is typically cold and damp, sometimes with light snowfall, but the city remains lively with Christmas markets and ice-skating activities. Many prefer staying indoors rather than venturing out, and you will find fewer people and tourists at attractions. Visiting Amsterdam in winter allows you to see the city’s serene beauty covered in snow. During the Christmas season, you can also enjoy the festive atmosphere at numerous Christmas markets and outdoor stalls.