Amsterdam, the capital city of Netherlands, is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, beautiful canals, and rich history. If you have only 24 hours in Amsterdam, planning ahead of time is essential! Here is a list of things to see and do when you have limited time in this beautiful city!
What to do and see in 24 Hours in Amsterdam!
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Van Gogh Art Museum
I suggest you start your day with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, which houses the largest collection of the artist’s works in the world.
The museum’s collection includes over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters written by the artist himself. Some of Van Gogh’s most famous works such as “Sunflowers,” “The Bedroom,” and “The Potato Eaters” are on display at the museum.
Vondelpark
After enjoying the Van Gogh Museum, take a stroll through the picturesque Vondelpark, which is perfect for a morning or sunset walks. It´s perfect for picnics too!
Wander around the Jordaan neighbourhood
Next, head to the historic Jordaan district and explore the charming streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Be sure to stop by the Anne Frank House, which provides a moving account of the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II.
De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)
The Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes) is a picturesque area in the heart of Amsterdam with a collection of 9 streets or alleyways. Known for its charming canals and narrow streets, filled with boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and galleries. The area is known for its unique atmosphere and authentic character, and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Dancing Houses on Amstel
Take a scenic walk from De Negen Straatjes to the Dancing Houses on Amstel. Once you arrive to Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square), cross over the Amstel River onto ‘s-Gravelandseveer. From this vantage point, you can take in the breathtaking view of the Dancing Houses , a picturesque spot that is incredibly popular on Instagram and often featured on postcards.
Visit the Albert Cuyp Market
For lunch, grab a bite at one of Amsterdam’s famous street markets, Albert Cuyp Market. Here you can sample a variety of Dutch treats, from stroopwafel to bitterballen.
Best Restaurants in Amsterdam
Finally, end your day with dinner at one of Amsterdam´s many excellent restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Dutch cuisine or international fare, Amsterdam has something for everyone.
Another fun way to enjoy the wonderful food that Amsterdam has to offer. Why not try Amsterdam’s Jordaan Cozy Food Tour with Eating Europe
Book an Amsterdam Canal Cruise
I highly recommend you book a memorable canal cruise in Amsterdam to see the city’s stunning architecture from a different perspective. This is the easiest and quickest way to see the city if you have limited time!
Visit the Anne Frank House
Discover the Anne Frank House, a must-visit destination in Amsterdam
Located near the charming Nine Streets in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House is a must-see attraction that should be on everyone’s bucket list. This museum is dedicated to the Jewish girl, Anne Frank, who kept a diary during her time hiding in the annex of the building during World War II.
The museum provides a comprehensive and well-organized explanation of The Holocaust. However, due to its small size, tickets (€16.00 for adults – opening hours 09:00 – 22:00) tend to sell out months in advance. Make sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time!
Visit the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a must-visit for art lovers, with over 8,000 art pieces from famous Dutch artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Vermeer. The museum’s highlights include Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” and Van Gogh’s “Self-Portrait” and “Sunflowers.”
The stunning architecture of the museum includes galleries, exhibition spaces, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to explore and appreciate art and history.
Rent a Bike in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a beautiful city to explore by bike. With its flat landscape and extensive network of bike paths, cycling is the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around.
Before renting a bike, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local cycling rules and etiquette. Bikes are considered vehicles in Amsterdam, so you’ll need to follow the same traffic rules as cars. This includes stopping at red lights and giving right of way to pedestrians.
Once you’ve rented your bike, take some time to plan your route. Amsterdam has many scenic bike paths, including along the canals and through the city’s many parks. You can also use the city’s bike route planner to find the best route for you.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
When it comes to finding the perfect places to stay in Amsterdam, there are plenty of options available to suit every budget and preference.
For those looking for a luxurious stay, Amsterdam has a range of five-star hotels such as the Waldorf Astoria, the Conservatorium Hotel, and the Pulitzer Amsterdam. These hotels offer top-notch amenities and services, including spa treatments, fine dining, and stunning city views.
If you’re traveling on a budget, don’t worry! Amsterdam has plenty of affordable accommodation options! The Flying Pig Hostels, Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Oost, and B&B Hotel Amsterdam-Zaandam West are just a few examples of budget-friendly options that still offer comfortable and clean accommodations.
For a more unique and authentic experience, consider staying in one of Amsterdam’s many houseboats. These floating homes are scattered throughout the city’s canals and offer a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
The best time to visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam is largely dependent on what you are looking for in your trip. If you are hoping to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or fall (September to November). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the city’s sights and sounds at a more leisurely pace.
If you are hoping to experience Amsterdam’s famous tulips in bloom, plan your trip for late March through early May. This is when the Keukenhof Gardens are open, and you can see acres of colourful tulip fields in full bloom. Just be aware that this is peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Amsterdam Festival and Events
If you are looking to experience Amsterdam’s lively festivals and events, plan your trip around King’s Day (April 27), the Amsterdam Dance Event (October), or the Amsterdam Light Festival (November to January). These events showcase the city’s vibrant culture and are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Travel Resources
Here is a list of my favourite travel resources to ensure your trip not only goes smoothly but that you have the best time ever! I created the ultimate digital mobile travel planner to help you plan the perfect trip, and if you´re going on a road trip you might want to check out our digital road trip planner (Google maps included). Lastly, if you are travelling as a family this family travel planner is just what you need.
Amazon Must Haves Budget Travel Essentials
Here is a lit of my top AMAZON MUST HAVES BUDGET TRAVEL ESSENTIALS.
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If you´re planning to visit France, check out my latest blog post 10 Reasons to Visit Bordeaux France and Paris on a Budget or Things to do in Annecy & Lake Annecy.
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Travel Resources
Here is a list of my favourite travel resources to ensure your trip not only goes smoothly but that you have the best time ever! I created the ultimate digital mobile travel planner to help you plan the perfect trip, and if you´re going on a road trip you might want to check out our digital road trip planner (Google maps included). Lastly, if you are travelling as a family this family travel planner is just what you need.
Amazon Must Haves Budget Travel Essentials
Here is a lit of my top AMAZON MUST HAVES BUDGET TRAVEL ESSENTIALS.
Planning a trip to France? Check out my latest blog post 10 Reasons to Visit Bordeaux France. Get my printable travel planner (Get 50% off as an introductory offer!) to plan your next trip!
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