I spent a long weekend in Amsterdam, albeit not in the way one might typically envision. Certainly, there were bicycle rides, cozy bars, and luscious cakes; however, there were also paddleboarding on the canals and treasure hunts in the charming streets of The Jordaan.
I resided on the verge of the Museum Quarter, one of Amsterdam’s most captivating neighborhoods, precisely where it intersects with De Pijp over the canal—well distanced from the hectic pace and souvenir shops of the city center. Envision mornings beside the water, cobblestone pathways leading to inviting cafes and local bars that resemble someone’s cozy living room rather than a bustling capital city.
Drawing inspiration from my favorite moments during that trip, alongside valuable insights I gathered from locals and colleagues during my time at GoTravelDaily, I have compiled a comprehensive guide for savoring a leisurely weekend in Amsterdam.
Friday is for cycling and museums
Morning: Drop your bags at the hotel and proceed directly to Bakkerij Mater in De Pijp. The aroma of freshly baked sourdough alone entices you inside, and their bread and butter pudding, still warm from the oven, will eliminate any remaining travel fatigue. For a more substantial option, you may select from sandwiches piled high on crusty bread. Collect your coffee to go and enjoy it by the canal.
How to spend the day: Let the exploration commence! Rent a bike to experience the city like a true Amsterdammer—numerous hotels arrange guided bike tours; however, if fortunate, you might acquire a guide akin to the one my hotel provided: a guide who also operates at the Rijksmuseum and who seamlessly combines cycling with imparting 17th-century trivia. The journey initiates with a delightful ride along the spacious paths of Vondelpark before delving deeper into the city, cycling through Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) and crossing the Skinny Bridge to the Jewish Quarter.
While cycling, remain vigilant for small, intricate carvings and unique motifs on canal-side buildings, such as storks marking the former residences of midwives and gold coins denoting banks. Prior to this trip, I had not noticed these details, yet they possess a fascinating history—during the 17th century, most city inhabitants could not read, thus, these symbols assisted individuals in navigating and locating essential services. Once you become aware of them, it feels as though you’ve deciphered a concealed Amsterdam language.
After your cycling excursion, take time to roam around Negen Straatjes. This area teems with small, independent shops and galleries, each offering something distinct. One moment, you may find yourself perusing an intriguing photography museum; the next, you might try on vintage cowboy boots in a bustling vintage store, construct your own bracelet in a bead shop, or admire a suede jacket in Rika Studios that you certainly did not plan on purchasing but now cannot stop thinking about.
Dinner: When hunger arises, direct yourself to Festina Lente on Looiersgracht, where the menu reflects the diversity of Amsterdam itself. Ingredients are sourced locally, featuring Argentinian choripán (chorizo sandwiches) alongside Portuguese caldo verde (green kale and potato soup), all prepared with high-quality ingredients. Moreover, they provide ample vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a meal.
After dark: If jet lag has not caught up with you, linger at Festina Lente for cocktails or venture to Radio Radio in Westerpark for dancing. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Bar Oldenhof on Elandsgracht offers inventive cocktails, a commendable wine selection, and live jazz to conclude your evening. The bartenders here are renowned for their creativity, so feel free to let them surprise you with something off the menu.
Saturday
Morning: Take a leisurely stroll to the Stedelijk Museum, where contemporary and modern art dominate—consider the bold and abstract works of Piet Mondrian and de Kooning. When it is time for a break, the Ten Good Food Cafe within the museum serves a commendable brunch option. Alternatively, extend your walk to Un.Common Cafe for a rich coffee and unexpected delicacies such as savory Danish pastries with whipped feta, yuzu pea smash, and basil oil.
How to spend the day: Following your visit to Stedelijk, you have several choices: The Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are both a short walk away, and the overwhelming scale of Rembrandt’s The Night Watch is sure to leave an impression; however, both venues can become excessively crowded. You might also consider the more intimate and charming Rembrandt House in the city center for your Rembrandt experience. For a grittier artistic encounter, take the ferry to Amsterdam Noord. This repurposed industrial area has transformed into a creative hotspot, with the Straat museum showcasing monumental floor-to-ceiling murals bursting with color and political significance. It feels entirely distinct from the traditional art collections you have just left behind.
A notable piece on display is Care Portal by Lebanese artist Jad Al Khoury—a metal shutter punctuated by bullet holes, allowing visitors to slip handwritten notes through. The key messages are affixed to the back of the shutter and shared with street artists in conflict zones worldwide.
For those eager to engage, there is a 30-minute graffiti workshop available at the Straat. They will provide all necessary gear (overalls, shoe protectors, and a face mask) and grant you the freedom to express your creativity in their outdoor space with a spray paint gun. It promises uninhibited, messy enjoyment.
Dinner: Conclude your evening at Skate Cafe near the Straat. This venue blends skate culture, delightful cuisine (they frequently host guest-chef dinners), open-mic nights, and live music into an exciting atmosphere. Additionally, the nearby Cornerstore buzzes with life, offering Asian-inspired dishes, a rotating vinyl selection, and an intriguing wine menu.
If you prefer a more intimate setting, Gertrude near Vondelpark is small yet inviting; the seasonal seafood offerings warrant careful scheduling. For those who appreciate spontaneity, Cafe Cenc in Amsterdam-Centrum serves as a suitable option for casual walk-in dinners featuring small charcuterie plates.
After dark: Skate Cafe remains lively until 3 am. However, if you still possess energy (or remarkable stamina), consider testing your luck at the nearby Garage Noord, a former car repair shop turned nightclub that keeps the party alive till sunrise. A more relaxed but equally vibrant option is De Nieuwe Anita in the West, a long-standing local favorite with a speakeasy atmosphere that remains open until 1:30 am.
Sunday
Morning: Spend your morning in The Jordaan, a neighborhood where you will likely find yourself repeatedly thinking, “I wish I resided here.” Expect picturesque canal-side homes, art galleries, and indie cafes where patrons seem to actually know the baristas.
My hotel arranged a self-guided street art treasure hunt, complete with a map and clues to follow. This excursion led me into hidden corners of The Jordaan that I would not have discovered independently. It was an ideal activity for a Sunday morning spent strolling down peaceful streets, passing concealed gardens and vividly colored houseboats, where owners enjoy their coffee while perusing the morning newspaper.
How to spend the day: Remain in The Jordaan and visit the Anne Frank Huis, where the teenage diarist evaded the Nazis for two years. A visit serves as a powerful and profoundly moving experience; however, it is advisable to secure a reservation in advance. Subsequently, you can indulge in stand-up paddleboarding around the canals with Canal SUP. If balancing is not your strong suit, they also offer kayaks.
This provides an exceptionally tranquil method to explore the city. Observation from the water renders Amsterdam more serene, allowing for a closer and more personal experience. As you glide by the houseboats, fascinating details easily overlooked at street level become apparent. Stop at Waterkant for a cold beverage and a casual snack—if the weather permits, join the locals by dipping their feet into the water.
Dinner: After returning your kayak or paddleboard, take a 15-minute stroll to Bar Centraal on Ten Katestraat for a glass of wine and a serving of their dark chocolate mousse—its blend of olive oil, caramelized hazelnuts, and sea salt elevates the simple into a culinary masterpiece. Seriously, be sure to try it before dinner—it is that exceptional!
One could remain at Bar Centraal for a complete meal or venture to Vooges Aan ‘t IJ, a family-run establishment with views of the IJ River. The staff is exceptionally attentive and welcoming, while fare like sea bream ceviche and ribeye in lemon butter is complemented by a compelling array of wines and an animated cocktail menu.
After dark: Not ready to conclude your evening? Head to Cafe de Jonge Wees, a classic, old-school Amsterdam brown bar (local pub). Expect no pretensions here, simply quality beverages, warmly lit corners, and a crowd that is content to settle in for the night.
Bonus tips
Sasha traveled to Amsterdam at the invitation of Avani Hotels. GoTravelDaily staff members do not accept complimentary offerings in exchange for favorable coverage.
This article was first published on Oct 9, 2024, and updated on Oct 17, 2024.
