The Perfect 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary (Planned By a Local)

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Don’t let Amsterdam’s small size fool you. With its extensive history, buzzing food scene, and vibrant cultural life, there is so much to see, eat, and do. You will need at least five days to get a taste of the city’s identity.

No need to be overwhelmed! I have gathered all my local knowledge and poured it into this five-day Amsterdam itinerary. 

Covering classic highlights and guiding you off the beaten path, this schedule is crafted to highlight every facet of my hometown, allowing you to return home with the richest experiences in your pocket.

Where to Stay for 5 Days in Amsterdam

For a 5 day visit to Amsterdam, these are my top picks for where to stay: 

• 🏆 Best Overall Hotel – Mr Jordaan
• 📍 Best Location – Hotel Mercier or Conservatorium Hotel
• 💎 Luxury – The July Twenty-Eight or InterContinental Amstel
• 👪 Best for Families – The July – Boat & Co
• 🏨 Best Hostel – The Elephant Hostel or Bee Hostel
• 🛏️ Best Budget – Hotel Station Amstelveen
• 🏠 Apartments – Browse rentals in the Jordaan (my top suggested neighborhood) 

For more, check out my full guide to where to stay in Amsterdam.

5 Day Amsterdam Itinerary

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Day 1 – Explore Amsterdam’s Canal Belt and Main Sights

Morning

Your first day in Amsterdam will be spent exploring the city’s main sights and iconic canal belt. While locals tend to skip the center, there is something magical about its arched bridges and crossing the canals, and secret local spots can still be found. Some of Amsterdam’s most popular sites are popular for a reason, and they’re worth a visit if it is your first time in the city.

Start your day with breakfast at Kessens, perched on the lively Rozengracht in the heart of the Jordaan. It’s just 200 meters away from one of my favorite hotels, Mr Jordaan. This airy cafe offers a splendid set breakfast menu including croissants, eggs, toast, yoghurt and a hot drink that will fuel you up for an active morning.

With your belly full, make your way to the Anne Frank House, where you will spend a couple of hours wandering her hidden home behind the cupboard. As this is one of the most popular things to do in the city, make sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure your spot.

After having taken a look into the darker parts of Europe’s history, get your bearings wandering through the Negen Straatjes, which has some of Amsterdam’s best fashion and lifestyle stores. Before heading out to lunch, get a cup of coffee at the Ambassade Hotel’s Library Bar, which showcases over 5000 books signed by guest authors.

Afternoon

Walk to the other side of the Prinsengracht for lunch at Rainarai, an Algerian-nomadic kitchen, and fill your plate at the counter with all types of North-African delights. Don’t leave the restaurant hungry, though, as you will spend most of the afternoon on your feet. 

After lunch, it is time to explore the main historical sights. Walk through the Negen Straatjes one last time to the Begijnhof, the idyllic courtyard once home to the Beguines. Continue through one of the many alleyways to the Humanities University quarter and take a peak at the courtyard and book market at the Oudemanhuispoort. 

Head back west to the Nes, a street filled with small theatres worth a visit in the evenings, like Frascati and De Brakke Grond. Turn left at the Nadorsteeg and make a quick pitstop at Van Stapele Koekmakerij, where you must try their famous chocolate cookies. 

As you turn right on the Rokin, you will walk straight onto Dam Square, one of the city’s main sights. While it is a must-see, do not spend too much time here, as it gets incredibly busy. The most impressive building you will see here is the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, which you can visit if you have the time.

Keep walking down Damrak to Beursplein where you can take in the Beurs van Berlage: the city’s former stock market now used for conferences and exhibits. Take a stroll around the building until you reach the Oude Kerk. This former church now serves as an art gallery and is the final stop on your walking tour.

After having observed the church’ juxtaposition of medieval and contemporary art, make your way to the docks at the Prins Hendrikkade. Here, you will hop on a boat tour around the canals, which includes wine and cheese. This is the best way to see Amsterdam’s center. Book your spot well in advance, though, as these tours fill up quickly. 

Evening

Once back on solid ground, take the tram to Leidseplein and walk to the Lijnbaansgracht for an early dinner at Ceppi’s, one of the best Italian restaurants in town. Be there around 6 PM and reserve a table in advance, as this place tends to be packed.

Where you spent part of your afternoon in a church turned museum, you will spend your evening at a church turned concert hall. After dinner, walk a short two minutes to Paradiso for a concert. Book your tickets to acts in the main concert hall in advance, as these tend to sell out quickly.

If Paradiso has nothing to your liking, you can always check out the music venue Melkweg at the other end of the square for concerts and club nights, or De Balie for movies, lectures, and panel discussions.

Whatever you choose to attend, you will want to get some refreshments after. While Leidseplein is not known for its many local bars, there is one that I return to time and time again: De Spuyt. Head to this brown café straight after your show and take your pick from their extensive beer and late night snack menu.

The last trams leave from Leidseplein between midnight and 1 AM, so if you decide to stick around De Spuyt late, order a taxi back to your hotel. Especially if it will take you more than 20 minutes by foot.

Day 2 – Discover Dutch Art at the Rijksmuseum, and Fill Your Belly and Suitcase in Oud-West

Morning 

Day two of your Amsterdam trip is as much about the highlights as it is the journey. Most tourists fill their itinerary to the brim with museums and whatnot, but the city’s charm can be found in the in-between spaces. Taking in these streets and corners means you will be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear proper shoes.

Start your day at Bonnie. This pretty café in Zuid offers a well-balanced breakfast menu and choice coffee. Make sure to either try their eggs Atlantic in the early morning or melanzane sandwich if you are there after 11 AM. 

After breakfast, and if the weather and time allow, make your way to the Rijksmuseum by tracing the streets around the southwestern border of Vondelpark. If you are in a hurry, you can take tram 2 to Museumplein, but the buildings around Amsterdam’s illustrious park are nothing short of romantic. 

Walk along the Amstelveenseweg and turn right on the Oranje Nassaulaan, where you will soon cross my favorite spot in Oud-Zuid: this bridge overlooking the pond that meanders around Vondelpark. Walk for a bit and turn right onto the Koningslaan, where you will find yourself among grand villas and weeping willows. 

Continue onto the Willemsparkweg with its elegant shops and cafés until you reach the Paulus Potterstraat, which will lead you directly to the Rijksmuseum. Along the way you will see the other notable buildings of Museumplein, like the Stedelijk Museum or Van Gogh Museum, with the Concertgebouw forming a short yet worthwhile detour along the Van Baerlestraat. 

The grand finale of your morning is the Rijksmuseum, which is artwork in itself. The museum showcases over 8,000 Dutch artworks and historical artifacts, and has some impressive international exhibits as well. Most notable of all is the painting Night’s Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn. 

While you should always book your tickets in advance, I also recommend booking a guided tour through the museum’s website. Wandering its halls could easily take up an entire day, maybe two. A tour will show you everything you want to see without getting lost in the vast collection. Besides the classic highlight tour, the museum offers many themed tours, as well as tours for children with special needs, people with hearing and visual impairments, and people suffering from dementia. 

👉 Pro Tip: If you are a Van Gogh fanatic, this one is for you! Once a month, the Van Gogh Museum organizes Vincent on Friday. This event allows you to browse through the entire collection at night, while also offering workshops, talks, and even a party on their dance floor. 

Afternoon

With so many impressions of buildings and artworks flying around your head, it is time for some fresh air and good food. Exit the museum and turn onto the Hobbemastraat which will lead you to the east entrance of Vondelpark. 

Take a stroll through the park, and visit the Rosarium during spring and summer when the roses are in bloom. Slowly make your way to De Foodhallen. With over 20 stalls showcasing cuisines from all over the world, this food court is the place to be for a long lunch. 

Stalls often change their offerings, but one that has been there for as long as I can remember is the Ballenbar. Here, you can sample the best bitterballen in town, from the regular beef ones to truffle and chorizo bitterballen. Combine them with a glass of oaky chardonnay and some other bites, and you have got yourself a killer meal.

Once your belly is content, do not leave immediately. Explore the rest of De Hallen. The Foodhallen are part of a larger cultural complex that used to function as a tram depot. Read a book at the library, shop Dutch design at the Maker Store, or try your luck at the antique store The Collector.

After having seen every inch of the place, the shopping is not over. Walk down the Kinkerstraat. Make a quick stop at the Conceptstore Gekaapt, and continue onto the J.P. Heijestraat. 

With its myriad shops, restaurants, and cafes, this street forms the heart of the neighborhood of Oud-West. Spend the remainder of your afternoon browsing through the racks of JPH Store Amsterdam, Johnny at the Spot, and my all-time-favorite, Following Lucy, while taking in the area’s lively atmosphere.

With the extra room in your suitcase spent, walk over to the Gebrouwen door Vrouwen Cafe, where you can sample beers brewed by women. If you are staying at Hotel De Hallen, located in the very same building where you had your lunch, you can also choose to head back to your room and throw on an elegant outfit. You might have even bought the perfect outfit for this evening’s dinner reservations!

Evening

If you love Ottolenghi you will adore Gitane, the restaurant where you will spend most of your evening. The intimate, earthy ambiance and their seasonal Mediterranean menu based on a shared dining concept make it the perfect spot for a date night. Don’t forget to try one of their natural wines while you are there!

After dinner, take your pick between De Hallen’s or Lab111’s cinema. De FilmHallen will take you back to the old tram depot and offer both arthouse movies and the newest blockbusters. Lab111, located in an old laboratory, has more experimental, classic, and international films on display. 

If it is not too late, go for a drink at De Foodhallen or Lab111’s bar called Strangelove. Otherwise, there are multiple tram lines that can take you to your hotel: trams 1, 3, 7 and 17 stop at various points around De Hallen and will take you wherever you need to go in the city. You can also check 9292 for the best route to your hotel.

Day 3 – Dive Deep Into Urban Art and Life in Amsterdam

Morning

Most people picture Amsterdam’s classic charm when they are planning a trip, leaving its rawer edges undiscovered. To get a full picture of the city, exploring its urban art scene is a must and therefore the main theme of your third day in Amsterdam. 

A great deal of local urban life can be found on the Westergasterrein, the city’s former gas work station turned cultural center. 

One of the first buildings you will see when entering the site via the Westergas Bridge is the Conscious Hotel, where you can grab breakfast if you happen to stay there. Otherwise, opt for the Bakkerswinkel just across the square and go for one of their breakfast menus.

After breakfast, stroll around the Westergas and take in its red brick buildings. Along the way, you will find most spaces taken up by restaurants, cafés, shops, event planners, and even nightclubs, so come back here someday for dinner and a night of dancing. Do not spend too much time in the park, though, as you will revisit it later during a bike tour!

A cultural center is not complete without art, and the area has two dedicated spaces where art takes center stage. If you are into experimental contemporary art, spend the next hour or two at Museum Villa. 

My personal favorite, however, is the immersive light installation of Fabrique des Lumières. Here, you can walk within the works of masters such as Van Gogh and Monet, which takes enjoying paintings to a whole new level.

Next, head to the meeting point of Bill’s Bike Tour, close to the Westergasterrein. This bicycle tour will take you past many of Amsterdam’s architectural wonders often skipped by tourists. From windmills to the homes built in the style of the Amsterdamse School: these places tell the tale of Amsterdam’s history and culture.

👉 Pro Tip: If you decide to spend more time in Amsterdam West than this itinerary allows, you must visit Museum het Schip, a former social housing complex that now functions as a museum dedicated to the Amsterdam School architectural style. You will pass this place on your bike tour, but walking through its halls and rooms is the best way to experience the building. 

Afternoon

After your bike tour, walk to the ferry dock called the Pontsteiger. Here, you will board ferry F7 to the NDSM-Werf, which is located on the other side of Het IJ. 

Although short, this boat ride will give you some excellent views of Amsterdam’s skyline, including one of the city’s most iconic hotels: Faralda Crane Hotel, which, as the name suggests, is built inside an industrial crane. 

Once you disembark, make your way to Pllek for a well-deserved lunch. Located in an old hangar overlooking Het IJ, this place can best be described as an industrial beach club. Their menu is largely vegetarian and their ingredients are locally sourced where possible, meaning everything is not only delicious, but sustainable as well. 

With your belly full, it is time to explore the NDSM-Werf. This up-and-coming neighborhood is the best place to discover local artists. From street art to contemporary works, you can find many galleries and studios tucked away in the Kunststad (“art city”) located in the NDSM Loods, while its upper floor, called NDSM FUSE, offers expositions year-round.

When you have seen every nook and cranny of the NDSM Loods, make your way to the STRAAT Museum, located in another silo down the street. Dedicated to street art and graffiti, this museum has a permanent exhibition of 180 larger-than-life artworks, all of which were created on site. This place will be your final museum of the day, so take your time wandering.

Having seen so much of Amsterdam’s urban art, it is time to mull it all over with a drink and a snack. Exit the museum and find a spot on IJver’s terrace, located on one of the NDSM Loods’ corners. Order a beer and their iconic frietje rendang (fries with Indonesian coconut-beef stew), and rest your legs for a while, before heading into your actionpacked evening. 

Evening

You cannot come to the Netherlands and not eat fish. 

From the NDSM-Werf, make your way to fish-restaurant Barracuda, reachable by taking bus 35 to the Johan van Hasseltweg from bus stop Atatürk. Their menu is based on the daily catch, so everything you taste is super fresh. 

If fish is not your thing, then make dinner reservations at Bacalar, one of Amsterdam’s finer Mexican restaurants located a 20-minute walk from the NDSM-Werf.

Whatever restaurant you decide to visit, be sure to eat plenty, as you will spend the rest of your evening at Garage Noord. From post-punk to techno, this former car repair shop turned progressive club offers a diverse clubnight program. 

Most nights start at 11:30 PM and only take place during weekends, so if you are early or visiting on a weekday, have a drink at its neighbor: Skatecafé Karin & Yvonne. This restaurant and bar doubles as a club, and is a good alternative to Garage Noord.

Once you are out of dance moves, head back to your hotel. While there are some night buses, I recommend booking an Uber. Unless you party until sunrise, in which case most public transport options will be up and running. 

Day 4 – Try Your Hand at Science, Dutch Cuisine, and Amsterdam’s Culture in De Pijp

Morning

No days are better for sweet treats, carbs, and fried goodies than days after a night out. Lucky for you, Dutch cuisine, which will fill up most of your fourth day in Amsterdam, is full of these three things.

One of the Netherlands’ dishes loved by all ages, is the Dutch pancake, which can best be described as a thicker French crêpe, traditionally eaten with syrup and icing sugar. You can find these traditional pancakes at places like Pancakes Negen Straatjes, but I often prefer MOAK’s American variants for their creative toppings, which is where you will be heading for breakfast. 

MOAK Pancakes has two locations. Head to the one in De Pijp if you want to sleep in and skip this morning’s activity. Or, head to their location in the city center if you are feeling fresh and fruity. 

If you do not want to leave your hotel at all this morning, then think ahead and book a room at Sir Albert. This is one of my all-time favorite hotels in De Pijp, the area where you will be spending most of your day. 

To continue in the spirit of playfulness — which pancakes undeniably are — your next stop will be Amsterdam’s interactive science museum: Nemo. This museum is especially fun with kids, but grown-ups will love to let their inner child out, too. Try your hand at numerous science experiments, travel to the end of the universe, and learn about the human body.

When leaving Nemo, do not forget to check out the Rooftop Square on top of the museum, where you can stop for a cup of coffee, enjoy the view of the city, and do some final, outdoor experiments. 

Once caffeinated, walk back towards the center and make your way to the Scheepvaartsmuseum and Marineterrein. The national maritime museum and Amsterdam’s former naval base both tell the story of the country’s recent and distant maritime past.

The stately building of the museum itself is worth a look, but far more impressive is the replica of a Dutch East India Company ship. You might already have spotted it on Nemo’s rooftop, but it is far more thrilling to see it up close. A museum entry ticket will allow you to board the ship, but the boardwalks in the Binnenhaven of the Marineterrein will give you a closer — and very photogenic — look of both ship and museum.  

Afternoon

After a science and boat-filled morning, you will spend the rest of your day in my favorite neighborhood: De Pijp. 

This lively area is filled with locals. Its restaurants and shops are especially popular among students and young professionals. If you have not fallen in love with Amsterdam yet, this is where it will happen.

You will start your Pijp-experience on the Gerard Douplein at restaurant Het Paardje, which has a terrace that is always filled to the brim with people, so be prepared to wait for a bit. Once you secure your spot, order a cappuccino, some fresh orange juice, and their Focaccia Serrano. While you finish your lunch, you will want to spend some time people-watching, as everybody here looks super stylish. 

Using your people-watching as inspiration, walk down the Gerard Doustraat for some fabulous shopping at Verse, Anna + Nina, Baskèts, and Felice Home of Brands after lunch. Be mindful of the time, however, as you will want to have enough of it to visit Europe’s largest daymarket, which closes at 5 PM. 

The Albert Cuyp Market runs through the heart of De Pijp and is one of the best places to try Dutch delicacies. Take a stroll past the different vendors, sample some cheese here and there, and keep an eye out for the stroopwafel stall, where they serve the traditional Dutch caramel-waffles freshly made and warm.

When the vendors start packing up their wares, walk through the idyllic Sarphatipark to Café Sarphaat for a typical Dutch ‘borrel,’ which is what we call aperitivo or pre-dinner drinks. A typical borrel consists of a glass of beer, good company, and a bowl of bitterballen, which are fried and breaded ragout balls. Keep some space in your tummy, however, as the Dutch food tour will continue into the evening.

Evening

For dinner, make your way to Restaurant ‘t Heemelrijck, which is just a 5-minute walk away from Café Sarphaat. This place not only serves traditional Dutch food, but looks the part too: from the Delft’s blue china on the walls, to the soft table cloths, everything is an ode to every Dutch great-grandparent’s home. Try one of their stamppots as your main dish and their price-winning wentelteefjes for dessert. 

Once your belly is full, go down the Govert Flinckstraat to MOAK on the Ferdinand Bolstraat, but instead of eating more pancakes, head down the stairs into the speakeasy Bar Mokum. This intimate space only serves signature cocktails. If nothing on the menu appeals to you, they will make you a custom drink based on your preferences. 

This could very well be your last stop of the night, but if you still have it in you, go and explore De Pijp’s nightlife. 

You will find real Dutch ‘gezelligheid’ at tiny bars filled to the brim with people, music, and beer. Some great places to try are Bar Bellini, Pilsvogel, Gloria’s, De Groene Vlinder, and Huis van Iemand Anders. While not a club, the latter has a dance floor in the basement where up-and-coming DJs play some great house music.

If you manage to stay up past midnight, getting a late-night snack is the Dutch thing to do. Kapsalon (döner kebab with fries, salad, cheese, and garlic sauce) is my personal favorite, but most snackbars that serve this caloriebomb close at 1 AM. Instead, visit Febo’s snackwall, where you can quite literally pull a kroket, cheese pocket, or frikandel out of the wall. 

Wherever you end up in De Pijp, there are many tram, bus, and metro lines running through the neighborhood which will get you back to your hotel. However, if you intend to leave past midnight, the only way to get home safely is by bicycle or taxi. Unless you are staying in a hotel nearby, then you can definitely do it on foot. 

Day 5 – Explore Amsterdam’s Colonial Past and Multicultural Future

Morning 

The final piece of the puzzle that is Amsterdam’s identity can be found in its natural beauty and multicultural heritage. Today, you will explore its former bourgeois gardens, and then move on to learn more about the darker side of the city’s ‘golden age’ and how the past is shaping its present and future.

As the past two days were filled to the brim with (late night) activities, this morning will be a tranquil one. Starting with breakfast at Dignita Hoftuin’s serene courtyard, where they serve some fabulous brunch dishes. 

Next, you will explore one of Amsterdam’s greenest neighborhoods, De Plantage, which was aptly named after the lush parks that used to make up most of the area. Two of these gardens still remain, which is where you will spend your morning. 

Head to Hortus Botanicus first. This botanical garden was founded in the 17th century and its history can still be felt when walking through its greenhouses. You can even stay next to one of them in the tiny house of the SWEETS Hotel Hortusbrug, where you can bask in the garden’s tranquility a little longer.

After discovering the world of plants, grab a coffee at café De Oranjerie and continue to Artis Zoo. This 19th-century zoo can best be described as a collection of monuments that happens to have animals in it. Take your time wandering around the park and do not forget to visit its Planterium and micro-organism exhibit called Micropia. 

Afternoon

For lunch, you will not have to wander far from Artis. Exit the museum at the main entrance, turn left and walk into Café-Restaurant De Plantage, located on the southwestern corner of the park. Its interior and sunroom reflect the park’s architecture while the food transports you to the Mediterranean. The shakshuka is especially scrumptious. 

After lunch, leave the restaurant through the sunroom’s doors and walk to the other side of Artisplein, where you can spot a pond full of flamingos. In summer, this is a popular spot for a picnic, and therefore a good alternative for today’s lunch. 

For the rest of the afternoon, you will swap Amsterdam’s natural world for the Wereldmuseum. The former Colonial Museum, instead of stolen artifacts, now shows how human cultures are formed and work. If you are short on time, give priority to their permanent exhibit called Our Colonial Inheritance, which specifically focuses on the influence colonialism and conquest still have on our society.

When you have seen enough, leave the museum and walk along the Mauritskade until you see a mill, which belongs to one of Amsterdam’s best breweries: Brouwerij ‘t IJ. After a day full of museums, flora and fauna, I suggest ordering the classic tasting menu. The mill itself is still in use, but sometimes they open it up for tours which you can book in advance through their website. 

Evening

Once you have enough hop in your stomach, walk off the beers as you make your way to dinner. Head back to the Wereldmuseum along the Mauritskade and walk into Oosterpark if it is still light outside. 

Take your time wandering around the park and the surrounding streets. You will want to be hungry for your last dinner in the city!

When you reach Amstel, find your table at Loulou Pizzabar on the Weesperzijde. As their regular and gluten-free pizzas are some of the best in the city, you will have to reserve a spot well in advance. When you do, order their tartufo bianco or vegetarian arabica pizza, and make sure to try their espresso martini for dessert.

👉 Pro Tip: On a hot summer’s day, buy some drinks at the supermarket and order your pizza to go. Then head left along the Weesperzijde until you find a free spot next to the water, where you will watch rowers glide by and enjoy the last rays of sunshine on your trip.

No city trip is complete without having had a drink on a rooftop bar, which is why you will head to the upper floor of the Volkshotel after dinner. Their bar, Canvas, offers both outdoor seating and comfortable lounge chairs next to the windows for a spectacular view of Amsterdam’s skyline. Order your drink of choice and cheers to a successful holiday.

Amsterdam Itinerary Map

Here’s a handy Google Map featuring all the attractions, eateries and hotels in this guide: 

How to Get Around in Amsterdam

The easiest way to get around Amsterdam is by bicycle. However, not everyone is able to or will feel comfortable riding one. Therefore, I recommend doing most of your sightseeing on foot, as Amsterdam is not as large as other European capitals like London or Berlin. 

If it is raining a lot, however, or you are not able to walk longer distances, then public transport is a good option. Trams, buses, ferries and metro lines will take you to most parts of the city. Ferries are free and for the other PT options there is no need to buy tickets in advance if you have a contactless debit card, which you can use to check in and out. Download the 9292 app, which gathers the most recent timetables and delays, to get the quickest route possible.

After midnight, though, most public transportation stops and is replaced by a handful of night buses. If you need to travel far or through a dark area, then getting a taxi is the safest option, especially if you are a woman. 

Itinerary Planning Tips

Tip #1 – Make Dinner Reservations

Most restaurants are fully booked during weekends, and sometimes even on weekdays. While not impossible, chances are slim you will get a table as a walk-in. I recommend making dinner reservations a day or two in advance. For restaurants like Gitane and Loulou Pizzabar, you are safest booking a table at least five days before visiting.

Tip #2 – Go beyond the highlights

Everyone who has heard of Amsterdam has heard of the Red Light District, coffee shops, and Dam Square. While lots of history can be found here, most of these places have evolved into mere tourist traps. Amsterdam’s true character lies beyond these highlights and you will have the best time if you let the city surprise you. The itinerary above will help you with that.

Tip #3 – Plan according to the weather

Not all activities are right for every type of weather, which can be fickle in the Netherlands. Modify the above itinerary to the weather forecast. For example, day 4 is best when the sun is shining, while most of day 2 is perfect for a rainy day. 

The best weather forecast can be found on Weeronline.nl, while Buienalarm shows you a graph of when and how much it will rain in the coming two hours. I also recommend reading my guide to packing for Amsterdam if you want more tips on what clothing and essentials to bring for the weather. 

Tip #4 – Do as much as you can on foot

Many tourists flit from highlight to highlight, not taking in the parts in between. But traveling is as much about the journey as the destination. Doing as much as you can on foot will allow you to travel slowly and immerse yourself better. You might meet new people along the way, see buildings you would not have seen otherwise, or discover your new favorite restaurant. 

Tip #5 – Take note of national holidays and festivals

While most businesses in Amsterdam that cater to tourists remain open during national holidays (with the exception of Christmas, New Year’s and Easter), things are very different when festivities are involved. 

Koningsdag and Pride, for example, transform the city into one big party which can be a lot of fun, but also overwhelming when it surprises you. So, make sure you know what is going on when you are visiting the city and plan accordingly.

Tip #6 – Take a day trip to a nearby city if you have the time

Amsterdam is certainly a special city, but if you find yourself with extra time, consider taking a day trip to some nearby places in the Netherlands. Here are a few recommendations:

• Utrecht – With its medieval city center and canals, Utrecht is just a 20-minute train ride away. The city is smaller and less touristy than Amsterdam, but has many great restaurants and museums. It is the perfect destination if you love Amsterdam’s vibe, but want to escape the rush of the city. 

• Rotterdam – If you liked the NDSM-Werf and Westergasterrein then you will love Rotterdam. This city was heavily bombed during World War II and is much more modern and industrial. Check out my guide to where to stay in Rotterdam to learn more about its neighborhoods, or to extend your trip in the Netherlands. 

• The Hague – While Amsterdam used to be the capital of trade, The Hague is the Netherlands’ political capital. Here, you can find the country’s parliament and the International Court of Justice. Its proximity to the sea and history of monarchy and power have severely influenced the cityscape: where Amsterdam is filled with old warehouses, The Hague displays the grandest of the Netherlands’ villas and palaces. Just 45 minutes from Amsterdam by train, The Hague will make a great day-trip.

FAQ About Itinerary Planning for Amsterdam

How many days is enough for Amsterdam? 

While three days in the city will give you a taste of Amsterdam, chances are you will not get further than a couple of highlights. To get to know the city and its myriad neighborhoods, I would recommend you visit for at least five days. 

How can I plan a 7 day itinerary for Amsterdam? 

Extending this five day Amsterdam itinerary is easy. Dive deeper into the Oud-Zuid and De Jordaan neighborhoods in the afternoons and to visit museums like Museum het Schip, Stedelijk Museum, and the Van Gogh Museum. For dinner, try Indonesian food at Ron Gastrobar Indonesia and Japanese at Utage Sake Bar, and finish your evening at the National Opera & Ballet, or the Concertgebouw. 

📚 Related Reading: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Should I rent a bicycle?

Cycling is the best way to get around any Dutch city and also the best way to explore Amsterdam. However, you should only rent a bicycle if you cycle in traffic frequently, like for your commute. There are many unwritten cycling rules in Amsterdam and very few people cycle on a city bike for leisure. If you feel comfortable riding in the city’s chaotic bike traffic, then go for it! Otherwise, explore on foot or use public transportation.

What nearby towns should I explore?

While I have a soft spot for Amsterdam, there are many more cities in the Netherlands to discover. Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague are some of my favorites.

🖨️ Get a printable version of this itinerary

Want More? Listen to My Amsterdam Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love my Amsterdam episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming Amsterdam”).

The host, Betty, and I chat about the best things to do in Amsterdam (2:26), Amsterdam safety tips (26:24), where to stay in Amsterdam (19:51), Dutch food to try (32:47), etiquette tips for Amsterdam (39:12), and all the other common questions about Amsterdam. 

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you visit Amsterdam.

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There you have it, a full five day itinerary to Amsterdam! You can follow this itinerary to the T, or mix and match activities that tickle your interests. 

If you need more inspiration for your upcoming Amsterdam trip, read my guide to the best things to do in Amsterdam.