Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most enchanting cities—where charming canals, world-class museums, and cozy cafes come together in perfect harmony. If you’re visiting for a short time, here’s how to experience the best of Amsterdam in 24 hours (with a bonus Day 2 itinerary if you have extra time!).
Morning: Explore the Albert Cuyp Market
Start your day at the vibrant Albert Cuyp Market, the most famous open-air market in the Netherlands. This is the best place to:
- Taste local street food like stroopwafels, herring sandwiches, and poffertjes
- Shop for traditional goods, handmade crafts, clothes, and fresh produce
- Soak up local vibes in the buzzing De Pijp neighborhood
This market is full of life and flavor—perfect for an authentic Dutch start to your day!
Late Morning: Museumplein (Museum Quarter)
Head over to the Museumplein, home to:
- Rijksmuseum – A deep dive into Dutch art and history
- Van Gogh Museum – Housing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works
- Stedelijk Museum – For modern and contemporary art lovers
Even if you don’t go inside, the square is lovely for a stroll, especially with a coffee in hand.
Midday: Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market)
Make your way to the iconic Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market. It’s built on houseboats and offers:
- Tulip bulbs (perfect souvenirs!)
- Colorful seasonal flowers
- Dutch-themed gifts
It’s a short and sweet stop, full of color and charm.
Before diving into more sightseeing, grab a quick bite at ‘t Pareltje, a no-frills local favorite known for its crispy Dutch fries served with classic toppings like truffle mayonnaise sauce. It’s the perfect fuel for an afternoon of exploring—and a must-try street food experience in Amsterdam!
Afternoon: Dam Square and Central Amsterdam
Next, explore Dam Square, the historic heart of Amsterdam. Here you’ll find:
- The Royal Palace
- Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
- Street performers, cafes, and shops
This is a great time to wander nearby streets, do a little shopping, or stop for a midday snack.
Dinner at Lolo
As the sun sets, book a table at Lolo, one of Amsterdam’s most popular dining spots. Known for:
- TikTok-viral energy and stunning interior design
- A fun, upbeat vibe with curated cocktails
- Fusion dishes with Italian and Asian influences
Definitely book in advance—Lolo is in high demand and offers a truly memorable dinner experience.
Evening: Canal Cruise Under the Stars
No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a canal cruise—especially at night. The city transforms after dark:
- Historic buildings are beautifully illuminated
- The peaceful glide along the canals is romantic and relaxing
- Many cruises offer drinks, snacks, or guided commentary
Look for an evening departure for the most magical views!
We highly recommend this cruise from GetYourGuide.
Bonus Day 2: Dutch Countryside Excursion with GetYourGuide
If you have an extra day, don’t miss the opportunity to see the iconic Dutch countryside. We highly recommend the GetYourGuide Countryside Tour we personally took—it was smooth, well-organized, and offered great value!
What’s included:
- Visit to Zaanse Schans: See real working windmills and traditional Dutch homes
- Stop at Edam: A charming town known for its famous cheese
- Entrance to a cheese farm in Volendam
- Cheese tasting session
- Visit to a clog-making workshop
- Explore the fishing village of Marken, full of color and character
💡 Tip: This day tour takes around 7–8 hours and departs in the morning, making it ideal to pair with a relaxed Amsterdam afternoon.
Afternoon: Canal Strolling and Local Life
Back in Amsterdam, spend your late afternoon exploring:
- The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) for boutique shopping
- Lesser-known canals like Reguliersgracht and Brouwersgracht
- A cozy café with canal views for a relaxing break
This is your moment to slow down and soak in the charm of the city.
Evening: End Your Trip at Luminair
Wrap up your Amsterdam adventure at Luminair, a chic rooftop bar with panoramic views over the city. It’s the perfect spot for:
- Sunset drinks
- City-light views
- A stylish send-off
Cheers to an unforgettable 24+ hours in Amsterdam!
Alternative to the Countryside: Explore More of Amsterdam
If you prefer to stay within the city rather than head out to the countryside, Amsterdam offers plenty of unique and meaningful experiences to fill your day.
You could start with something creative and immersive like Fabrice de Lumière, a stunning digital art experience full of light, color, and motion. Then, hop across the IJ River to visit the Eye Filmmuseum, a modern architectural landmark that celebrates the art of cinema. While you’re there, don’t miss the A’DAM Lookout, a rooftop observation deck offering panoramic views of the city—and even a daring swing over the edge for thrill-seekers!
Prefer something more iconic or historic? You can’t go wrong with a visit to the Anne Frank House (just be sure to book tickets well in advance, as they sell out fast) or the Heineken Experience, where you’ll tour the original brewery and enjoy interactive exhibits—and maybe a cold one at the end.
Accommodation
During our visit, we stayed at Room Mate Aitana, a stylish, modern hotel located on a man-made island just outside the city center. The hotel itself offers sleek rooms, beautiful views of the harbor, and a calm, quiet atmosphere—ideal if you’re looking for a more peaceful stay. However, it’s worth noting that it’s a bit far from most attractions, requiring either a 20–25 minute walk or a short tram ride to reach the heart of the city.
If you only have 24 hours in Amsterdam and want to maximize your time, consider staying closer to areas like the Jordaan, De Pijp, or near Dam Square. These neighborhoods are more central, walkable, and surrounded by great cafes, shops, and historic sights—perfect for a short stay.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re here for a layover, a short city break, or a pre-cruise stop, Amsterdam has something for every traveler—even in just one or two days. With this itinerary, you’ll experience the city’s essence, flavors, history, and beauty in a seamless flow.
Follow Us on Social Media
Discover More
