The Perfect 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary For First Time Visitors

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This post is all about a 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary.

This blog post will cover:

• Best Time To Visit Amsterdam
• How To Get From Amsterdam Airport To City Centre
• How To Get Around Amsterdam
• 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary Overview
• Day One - Explore The City
• Day Two - Museums And Beer
• Day Three - History And Canals
• Where To Eat In Amsterdam?
• Where To Stay In Amsterdam?
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Best Time To Visit Amsterdam

The best time to visit Amsterdam is between April-May and September-October. During these months, the city is less busy and is still a reasonable temperature for being able to comfortably go sightseeing.

Best Time To Visit Amsterdam If You Are On A Budget

If you are on a budget, Amsterdam in December is a great time to visit! The city is adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations and has lots of festive events on. It's also much quieter and cheaper than other times of the year, meaning you can find some amazing deals on flights and accommodation.

I booked my own Amsterdam trip in December and also, a weekend break in Barcelona through Expedia. They offer great flight and accommodation packages. By doing this, you can save more than 15% on your hotel. For me, it's worked out way cheaper than booking the flights and accommodation seperately.

If you'd like to see if you could find some great deals, click the link below.

Best Time To Visit Amsterdam For Tulips

The Netherlands are often associated with tulips, but why? The story dates back to the 16th century, when tulips were imported from the Ottoman Empire (modern day Turkey) to the Netherlands. Just a few years later, they became the most sought-after flower in the country.

To this date, you can still flock to the Netherlands to see the tulips. The best time to visit to see the tulips is in spring time, from late March to mid-May.

Only 20-minutes from Amsterdam is the world famous tulip fields (Bollenstreek), which you may want to build into your itinerary.

Best Time To Visit Amsterdam For Partying

The best time to visit Amsterdam for partying is during the summer months, between June and August. During this time, you can expect the city to be bustling with people, there is more likelihood of sunny weather, long days and lots of amazing outdoor events.

Below are a couple of specific dates to visit Amsterdam for partying:

• King's Day takes place on the 27th April all over the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, to celebrate the King's birthday. The capital city is adorned in orange and the 850,000 residents of Amsterdam are joined by 1 million visitors from all around the world to party in the city streets.
• WWII Liberation Day takes place every year on the 5th May in the Netherlands and is a public holiday. This day marks the end of German occupation of the country in 1945 and also, allows people to pay their respects to people who lost their life. It is celebrated by parades, concerts and festivals all across the Netherlands.

How To Get From Amsterdam Airport To City Centre

The main airport in Amsterdam is Schiphol Amsterdam Airport (AMS).

There are multiple ways that you can get from AMS to the city centre including:

• By Train - Takes 15 minutes and costs €6 one-way.
• By Bus - Takes 30 minutes and costs €6.50 one-way.
• By Taxi - Takes 15-20 minutes and costs €35-€55 one-way.

By Train

The train is one of the best options to get from AMS to Amsterdam Centraal, the city's main station. It only takes approximately 15 minutes (direct) and costs €6 for a one-way journey. You can buy tickets through RailEurope or the Trainline.

By Bus

Another great way to get from AMS to the city centre is by taking the Amsterdam Airport Express Bus. You can take the 397 or the Niteliner N97. It takes 30 minutes and costs about €6.50 one-way.

The bus takes you by a lot of the main tourist spots, meaning that you should only be a short walk from your destination or accommodation. To book tickets for the bus, follow this link.

By Taxi

This is one of the more costly options but, much more comfortable and convenient, taking you directly to your hotel.

You can easily get a taxi from outside any of the terminals. To take a taxi from AMS to the city centre will cost anywhere between €35 and €55 one-way and takes between 15-20 minutes.

If you have a large group, then this luxury private transfer is ideal for you. It can take 6 people and will cost €27 per person one-way.

How To Get Around Amsterdam

1. By Walking

One of the best ways to get around the city is by walking. The city is quite compact and also, flat, meaning it's easy to walk around. It's also safe to do so.

By walking, you'll also be able to stumble upon little cobbled side streets that you otherwise wouldn't see by taking another mode of transport.

2. By Cycling

You couldn't find a more authentic way to get around the city than by cycling.

Amsterdam has been voted the second most bike-friendly city in the world, after Copenhagen. A lot of Amsterdam is designed to get around by cycling and there are more bikes than people in the city.

Bikes can be rented in most parts of the city and the average rental price per day is €10. A couple of places to rent a bike in the city centre include Rent A Bike, Starbikes Rental and King Bikes.

3. Taking The Metro, Tram Or Bus

When you buy a ticket for the public transport in Amsterdam, you can use it on any of the metro, tram and bus services because they are all run by the same operator (GVB).

You can buy a single, day or multi-day ticket from the GVB vending machine at each station or ticket service desks. However, tickets are not valid between the Schiphol airport and the city.

GVB ticket prices as of 2023 are €3,40 for 1-hour, and between €9 for a 1 day ticket through to €41 for a 7-day ticket. Get your tickets through this link.

When using any of these public transport services (metro, tram or bus), you need to check-in and check-out by presenting your ticket to a validator on board.

Since the metro, tram and bus, service major transport routes in and around the city. It can be a quick, easy and affordable way to get around.

3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary Overview

Day One - Explore The City

Get Better Acquainted With Amsterdam By Wondering Around The City

Amsterdam is a lovely city, so it's even just worth wondering around the city's picturesque streets for a couple of hours and seeing what you can stumble upon.

A notable spot to visit in Amsterdam is Damrak, which is located right in the city centre. Damrak is a street that connects the main train station, Amsterdam Centraal, to Dam Square. It is a popular spot for a photo as it is lined with beautiful Dutch townhouses.

Also worth visiting is The Nine Streets, located only 10-15 minutes walk from the city centre. 'The Nine Streets' is situated between the Singel and Prinsengracht canals, and is one of the trendiest shopping areas in Amsterdam, filled with independent vintage and designer boutiques, art galleries and gift shops.

Explore Beginhof, a beautiful courtyard in central Amsterdam and also, home to the oldest house in the city.

On the Singel canal is the world's only floating flower market, known in Dutch as Bloemenmarkt. It is open everyday and is one of the best places to pick up tulips in the city.

Another lovely spot in the city is Staalmeestersbrug or Bridge 227 (also known as the 'bridge of love'). Located only 10-minutes walk from the city centre, this lovely Dutch drawbridge covered in padlocks is a popular place for a photo.

Stroll Around Dam Square And The Royal Palace Of Amsterdam

Amsterdam's main historical centre, Dam Square, is located in the heart of the city. Many events occur year round in this square, making it one of the most important locations in the city.

The square is also home to many popular tourist attractions, including the National Monument and the Royal Palace.

The National Monument is a 22-metre high statue, constructed in 1956 and it is the countries most important memorial to World War II.

The Royal Palace was once used as the town hall and then, as the Royal Residence. It is now used as the location for state banquets, award ceremonies and other royal receptions.

You can take a 1-hour tour of the Royal Palace, and along the way, you'll learn about the history of the 17th century building, discover paintings and sculptures by some of the most famous artists from the Dutch Golden Age, and walk through the vast marble chamber of the Citizens' Hall.

A visit to the royal palace costs around €12 for an adult ticket. If you'd like to book a ticket to visit the palace, you can do so here.

Explore The Charming Neighbourhood Of Jordaan

Jordaan is a district in Amsterdam, situated about a 15-20 minute walk from the city centre. In Jordaan, you can expect beautiful scenery, trendy boutiques and cool cafes.

Jordaan is also home to the Noordermarkt square market, which sells delicious, organic produce and beautiful jewellery and antiques.

To get a better understanding of what this area has to offer, you could even opt to go on a culinary walking tour through Jordaan.

This 3.5 hour culinary walking tour has over 900 five-star reviews and will teach you about the history and culture of the neighbourhood as well as take you to 8 local foodie hotspots, where you'll get to enjoy 12 Dutch food tastings.

Visit The Last Hidden Catholic House Church At Our Lord In The Attic

Our Lord In The Attic, aka Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder, is a 17th century canal house, which contains a hidden catholic house church. It serves as a reminder of a time when catholics were forced to worship behind closed doors.

Journey through the rooms decked out in period furnishings to the catholic church, which is located on the the top three floors of the canal house's attic. It was built in the 1660s and was opened to the public in the 1888, making it the second oldest museum in Amsterdam after Rijksmuseum.

The canal house is right in the heart of the old centre of Amsterdam. If you'd like to book tickets, you can get them here.

Learn About The History Of Amsterdam By Going On A Walking Tour

Instead of having to find all the main spots in the city by yourself, you could opt to go on a walking tour. Walking tours are a great way to learn about a new city!

This highlights and history of Amsterdam walking tour has over 1,500 five-star reviews, with people raving about how experienced, knowledgable and enthusiastic the tour guide was.

The small-group walking tour lasts 2.5 hours and you can pick a morning or afternoon slot, whatever fits in with your plans.

You'll be guided around some of the main tourist attractions in the city and along the way, you'll learn about the city's origins and key historical moments.

Make Sure You Schedule In Some Time For A Stroopwafel (or two!)

You can't come to Amsterdam and not try one of their famous stroopwafels. Stroopwafels are delicious waffles with caramel fillings and a variety of toppings.

Some of the best places to get a stroopwafel in the city centre are Melly's Stroopwafels, Hans Egstorf, Lanskroon Bakery and Van Wonderen.

Wonder Through The Red Light District At Dusk

A truly unique experience, the Red Light District is somewhere you need to visit when in Amsterdam.

The largest and most famous Red Light District is called 'De Wallen' and it is a small neighbourhood in the centre of Amsterdam.

It's best to walk through the Red Light District in the evening as it comes alive with red neon lights and the brothels windows are filled with prostitutes. This is completely legal but, please remember that taking photos is strictly prohibited.

Within the Red Light District, you'll also find the Oude Kerk. Oude Kerk is Amsterdam's Oldest Church, dating back to the 1300s.

If you would like to know the history on this area, you should go on this 1.5 hour walking tour of the Red Light District. The tour has 4.8 stars with over 3,500 reviews.

Day Two - Museums And Beer

See Some Of The Most Famous Artwork In The World At The Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is located about 30 minutes walk from the city centre.

The museum is dedicated to the famous Dutch painter, Vincent Van Gogh and is home to the largest collection of his paintings in the world.

The museum has over 200 paintings, 500 drawings and 750 letters, allowing you to get a real sense of the artist and his life. You'll even be able to see some of his masterpieces here, including the world renowned 'sunflowers' painting.

It will take about an 1-2 hours to walk round but, try to visit earlier in the morning to avoid crowds.

You'll need to book tickets in advance as this is a very popular tourist attraction attracting over 1 million visitors every year. For an adult ticket to the Van Gogh museum, it will cost around €22 and you can book tickets through this link.

Go For A Relaxing Walk In Vondelpark

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then head to Vondelpark for a more relaxing time.

The 19th century park is the largest public park in the city and is close to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. From the city centre, it is located about 35-40 minutes walk away.

There are several ponds, walking paths in the park and calming scenery. An ideal place to enjoy a picnic!

Marvel At Masterpieces In The Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is the Netherland's national museum dedicated to Dutch art and history. It is located close to the Van Gogh Museum and is about a 25 minutes walk from the city centre.

The 19th century building is home to a staggering 8,000 objects in 80 galleries. There are historic works from Rembrandt, including 'The Night Watch', Frans Hal and Van Gogh.

However, you can expect more than just artwork as the museum also contains sculptures, artefacts, clothing and prints, spanning over 800 years of Dutch history.

Given the sheer amount of things to see, the museum can take between 4-5 hours to explore all the galleries. For an adult ticket, it can cost around €23 and you can buy your tickets through this link.

Enjoy A Much Deserved Beer At The Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience takes you on a 1.5 hour tour of the former Heineken brewery in Amsterdam, which opened in 1867.

Along the way on this self-guided tour, you'll learn about the company's heritage, the Heineken brewing process and what it takes to make this world renowned beer.

You'll even learn how to pour the perfect draft Heineken, which you can enjoy at the end of the tour.

If you'd like to book tickets for this tour, click this link.

Swing Off The Edge Of The A'DAM Lookout

The A'DAM Lookout is an observation deck, which offers 360 degree views over the city. It also has a panaromic restaurant, rooftop bar, and even, has a VR ride.

However, the most exciting part is, it is home to Europe's highest swing, allowing you to be able to swing 100 metres off the edge of the tower. Perfect for any daredevils and adrenaline junkies out there!

To get to the A'DAM Lookout, you can take a free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal.

An adult ticket to go up to the observation deck and go on the swing costs around €20. If you'd like to book tickets, you can get them here.

Day Three - History And Canals

Visit The Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House is a museum house located in the Jordaan neighbourhood of the city, about 15 minutes walk from the centre of Amsterdam.

The museum is a tour of the house that Anne Frank hid in during World War 2, and tells the harrowing story of Anne Frank, the secret annex and her diary.

The museum is very humbling and serves as a reminder of the atrocities of WW2, but is a very worthwhile tour. It only takes about 1-hour to walk round.

For an adult ticket to the Anne Frank House, it will cost you €16 and you can get them through this link. You'll need to book early to avoid disappointment as the museum tends to book up weeks in advance.

Discover Amsterdam's Jewish Quarter On An Anne Frank Guided Walking Tour

Learn about the history of World War II and follow in the footsteps of Anne Frank on this guided walking tour through Amsterdam's Jewish Quarter.

Along the way, your knowledgable and experienced guide will explain what life was like in Amsterdam during WWII and the nazi occupation of the country.

You'll past by landmarks such as the Jewish Historical Museum, the Portuguese Synagogue, and the Auschwitz Monument.

The tour has over 4,500 five-star reviews. If you'd like to book a spot on the tour, follow this link.

Walk In The Footsteps Of Others At Westerkerk

Located right next to Anne Frank House is Westerkerk, the biggest church in Amsterdam.

The church was built between 1619-1631 and has a 85-metre tower, which you can usually climb during the tourist season, but it is currently closed in 2023 and 2024 for restorations.

Westerkerk is the burial place of the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt, and has also been the location of royal weddings in the past! The church is free to visit.

Eat Some Delicious Food At Foodhallen

Foodhallen is a trendy food court, located in an old tram depot about 30-minutes walk from the city centre of Amsterdam.

If there is one recommendation on this full blog post that I think you should take, it's this one. It's a favourite with both locals and tourists, and was one of my own personal highlights when I went to Amsterdam.

At Foodhallen, you'll find 20 delicious food vendors and drinks stalls that you can choose from, serving everything from tacos and dumplings to burgers and hotdogs.

It has a lively atmosphere and often, hosts live music events. An ideal place for lunch, dinner or just to stop off for a snack.

Enjoy Amsterdam From A Different Viewpoint On A Canal Cruise

Amsterdam is home to 165 canals and one of the best ways to explore them is by taking a canal cruise.

This is one of the most popular things to do whilst in Amsterdam. On this tour, you'll cruise down the city's famous canal networks on a luxury boat for 1-hour, allowing you to admire the city and its landmarks from a different perspective.

Cosy up with blankets on the comfortable cushions and if it's cold, you can buy a drink from the cash bar to heat you up.

With close to 29,000 five-star reviews, this Canal Cruise is one thing you will not want to miss!

Where To Eat In Amsterdam?

5 Top-Rated Cafes In Amsterdam

• Omelegg (£) - A down-to-earth family run business serving up highly rated breakfast dishes. They specialise in omelettes and egg dishes.
• Bakers & Roasters (££-£££) - A wonderful place to grab some delicious brunch, coffee and cakes. They have two restaurants and both are very popular, so make sure to join the waiting list for a table before you go!
• MOAK Pancakes City Center (££-£££) - They serve up delicious fluffy pancakes or toast options for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
• Blue Amsterdam (££-£££) - This is a cafe and restaurant with 360-degree panaromic views over the city. They have all-day breakfast options, sandwiches, soups, salads, burgers and sweets.
• Greenwoods Singel (££-£££) - A cosy restaurant serving up English breakfasts, sandwiches and traditional cream teas.

5 Top-Rated Restaurants In Amsterdam

• Hollands Hap Hmm Restaurant (£) - This classic restaurant in Amsterdam has been attracting customers since 1935 and specialises in cooking up traditional, high-quality Dutch food.
• Bhatti Pasal (£) - A hidden gem in Amsterdam, they use fresh, local and seasonal produce to serve up authentic Nepalese dishes.
• Bistrot des Alpes (££-£££) - Traditional restaurant which focuses on cuisine from the French Alps including cheese fondue, raclette and tartiflette.
• Scheepskameel (££-£££) - Elegant, spacious restaurant serving up a local menu accompained by a great selection of German wines.
• Spectrum (££££) - If you are looking for fine dining, this is the one for you. This restaurant is part of the iconic Waldorf Astoria, and has two michelin stars. It offers inventive global cuisine using local ingredients.

Where To Stay In Amsterdam?

All the options below were chosen with peak season in mind and two people sharing.

Budget (£0-£100 per night)

Mid (£100-£200 per night)

High-end (£200+ per night)

This post is all about a 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary.

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Kirsty x‌

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