Summary
Tips for Visiting
Time is a luxury, and it’s one we’re often short of when we travel. However, Amsterdam, as one of Europe’s smallest capitals, lends itself well to whistle-stop tours thanks to its compact city center and excellent public transit options, including rent-a-bikes.
For a smooth visit, consider getting a 48-hour I Amsterdam Card. This card provides free city-wide public transport, free entrance to most recommended attractions, and a 25% discount at a selection of central restaurants. A map, such as the I Amsterdam City Map sold at the VVV (Tourist Information Center), can be very useful for navigating Amsterdam’s often serpentine streets.
Day 1, Morning: Dam Square to the Anne Frank Huis
The first 24 hours are devoted to exploring Amsterdam’s Central Canal Belt, which arcs in a semi-circle around the Central Station. Start at the station and head south to the Damrak; this touristic street is loaded with souvenir shops ranging from tasteful to hilariously kitsch. At the end is Dam Square, a vibrant area featuring the Koninklijk Palais (Royal Palace) to the west and the National Monument to the east. Inside the palace, you can admire the 17 illustrious rooms of Empire-period decorative arts.
Afterward, peek inside the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and check out the temporary exhibition if it appeals. Head west on the Radhuisstraat to the Westermarkt, home to the Homomonument—a moving memorial to those persecuted for their sexuality—and the Westerkerk, whose church tower offers lovely panoramic views. Northward lies the Anne Frank Huis, a must-visit that bypasses the queue with pre-purchased online tickets. Visitors are moved by their experience at the Anne Frank Huis.
Don’t stop there! Retrace your steps to Spuistraat and head southeast: with only 48 hours, grab lunch on the go from De Vleminckx Sausmeesters, known for Amsterdam’s favorite friet (French fries) located at Voetboogstraat 31.
Day 1, Afternoon: The Begijnhof to De Wallen
Witness the most picturesque enclave in Amsterdam by visiting the Begijnhof. This tranquil area features private residences nestled around an inner courtyard, with number 34 being one of only two wooden houses that survived below the river IJ.
Follow the Oudezijds Voorburgwal to Oudekerkplein (Old Church Square), home to the monumental Oude Kerk, consecrated in 1306. Near the square is Museum Het Rembrandthuis, where Rembrandt lived, showcasing his masterpieces in an exquisitely restored interior.
By now, you’ve entered Amsterdam’s legendary red-light district, De Wallen. Adults curious about the sex trade can opt for a non-sensationalistic tour led by a former sex worker. Alternatively, you can visit the hidden attic church at Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic), where persecuted Catholics worshipped in the 17th and 18th centuries.
End your first day in Amsterdam with a traditional Dutch meal at Pannenkoekenhuis Upstairs (Grimburgwal 2), known for its savory pancakes in a cozy setting. For a unique treat, enjoy the fondue at Café Bern (Nieuwmarkt 9), known for its Swiss culinary delights.
Day 2, Morning: Museum Quarter
Day 2 in Amsterdam focuses on the Museum Quarter located in the Old South. This prestigious area is home to iconic institutions and the beautiful Vondelpark, which offers countless attractions.
Begin at the Rijksmuseum, which features an impressive collection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces. Even those not particularly interested in museums may want to catch a glimpse of Rembrandt’s De Nachtwacht, a remarkable ensemble portrait from 1650.
Continue to the Van Gogh Museum, where impressive architecture complements an extraordinary collection of about 200 canvases, along with sketches by Van Gogh and his contemporaries.
Afterward, grab a quick meal at the Cobra Café. If you enjoy works by the Brussels-born Corneille or Amsterdam’s own Karel Appel, consider visiting the Cobra Museum in nearby Amstelveen next time.
Day 2, Afternoon: The Vondelpark and Around
The Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam’s equivalent of MoMA, offers an extensive collection of modern art. After its renovation in 2012, the museum showcases radically innovative architecture on Museumplein.
Head north and experience consumerism on P.C. Hoofdstraat, Amsterdam’s own Champs-Élysées, where upscale retailers await. Alternatively, stroll through the verdant Vondelpark, the heart of Amsterdam, with various activities available both indoors and outdoors.
Conclude your 48-hour adventure in Amsterdam with a culinary experience at Sama Sebo, one of the top Indonesian restaurants in the city. Try the rijsttafel, a feast of small Indonesian dishes along with rice, an extraordinary culinary tradition stemming from Dutch colonial times. Enjoy your meal and toast to your next adventure in Amsterdam!
