Amsterdam 6 Day Itinerary

Amsterdam: A 6-Day Itinerary for the Curious Traveler

This itinerary is designed for a traveler who wants to experience Amsterdam’s highlights while also delving into its unique charm and culture. It focuses on exploring a mix of popular attractions, local experiences, and off-the-beaten-path gems across six days.

Day 1: Arrival & Canal Cruise

  • Morning: Arrive at Schiphol Airport (AMS). Take the train from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station. Settle into your accommodation in the charming Jordaan district. Consider staying at a canal-side hotel for the full experience.

  • Afternoon: Explore the canals of Amsterdam with a relaxing canal cruise.

    • Where to eat:
      • Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Dutch meal at Moeders, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious home-style cooking.

Things to know:

  • Amsterdam is a very walkable city, but the canal cruises are a great way to get your bearings and see some beautiful views.
  • The Dutch language is spoken in Amsterdam (obviously!), but English is widely understood.

Transportation:

  • Train: Take the train from Schiphol Station to Centraal Station.

  • Walking/Cycling: Explore the city on foot or rent a bike to travel like a local.

Day 2: Art & History

  • Morning: Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to Dutch masterpieces like Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.”
  • Afternoon: Explore the Anne Frank House, a powerful reminder of the city’s wartime history.
  • Evening: Enjoy a canal-side stroll and have dinner at The Foodhallen, a vibrant indoor food market with diverse culinary offerings.

Things to do:

  • Explore the canals: Take a walk along the canals, admire the architecture, and maybe even take a bike ride or bike tour along the water.
  • Museum hopping: Amsterdam boasts numerous world-class museums.

Day 3: Local Charm & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Wander through the colorful streets of the Jordaan district, browsing charming shops, cafes, and hidden courtyards.

  • Afternoon: Visit a local market like the Albert Cuyp Market or the Waterlooplein Market, enjoy the hustle and bustle, and experience Amsterdam’s diverse culinary offerings at its finest.

  • Things to do:

    • Sample traditional Dutch snacks at a local cafe: Try “stroopwafels” (syrup waffles) and “bitterballen” (deep-fried meatballs).
    • Explore the Anne Frank House: Reflect on the life of this young Holocaust survivor and the historical context of her story.

Things to know:

  • Museum access: Consider booking tickets online in advance, as some museums are popular and sell out.

  • History:

    • Amsterdam’s history: Amsterdam is a city with centuries of fascinating history.
    • Historical significance: Learn about the city’s role as a center of trade, art, and tolerance.

Things to do:

  • Explore historical sites: Discover the Anne Frank House, a poignant reminder of the past, and the Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam’s vibrant food culture.

  • Cycle the canals: Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque canal network, a unique and charming feature of Amsterdam.

  • Enjoy local cuisine: Experience Dutch delicacies like “poffertjes” (small, fluffy pancakes) or “kaas” (cheese), which can be purchased at the market.

Where to stay:

  • Consider staying in a unique canal-house hotel for a more immersive Amsterdam experience.

Day 4: Coffee Shops and Culture:

  • Coffee shop exploration: Indulge in the city’s unique “coffee shop” culture and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in a cozy cafe.
  • Anne Frank Museum: Explore the history of the Jewish community in Amsterdam.

Things to do:

  • Explore Vondelpark: Enjoy the park’s natural beauty, bustling atmosphere, and cultural significance.

Day 6: Exploring Beyond the City Center

  • Visit Zaanse Schans: This historic windmill village is a short trip from the city center and offers a unique glimpse into Dutch history.

  • Explore the Anne Frank Museum: Immerse yourself in the story of Anne Frank.

  • Things to do:

    • Experience traditional Dutch culture: Learn about the Dutch Golden Age, visit the Anne Frank House, enjoy a “stroopwafel” and coffee from one of the cafes.

Exploring Amsterdam’s History & Culture:

  • Anne Frank House: This historical landmark is a must-see for all visitors.
  • Rijksmuseum: Spend time in this world-renowned museum to learn about Dutch history, art, and culture.

Beyond the Museums:

  • Explore the charming canals:

Take a canal boat tour or rent a bike and enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam’s canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Anne Frank House: This museum offers an immersive experience into the life of Anne Frank and the challenges faced by her family during WWII.

Things to consider:

Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, so it’s best to book tickets for attractions in advance.

The city center is easily accessible by foot or bike, but remember that the Netherlands is a very flat country, so cycling is a fantastic way to see the sights.

  • Zaanse Schans:

This picturesque village offers a unique experience of seeing traditional windmills and learning about how they were used in the past.

Things to consider:

  • The canals are a popular spot for tourists, so you might want to explore other parts of Amsterdam beyond the usual tourist traps.
  • Anne Frank’s story: While the Anne Frank House is a powerful experience, it can be emotionally challenging. Be prepared and respectful when visiting.

Enjoy the Local Cuisine:

  • Relax in a cafe and enjoy a cup of “coffee” (which is often cannabis-infused coffee) and a delicious slice of “stroopwafel,” which are thin waffles with a caramel filling.
  • Foodhallen: Explore this vibrant food market and try different cuisines, but remember it’s a great place to experience the city’s culinary diversity.

Remember:

  • Amsterdam is known for its tolerance towards drugs, but it’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations before indulging in anything.**

Explore Amsterdam’s Culture:

  • Anne Frank House: This museum can be a powerful reminder of the darker parts of history, and exploring the history of the Anne Frank house.
  • Local “brown cafes”: These are traditional Dutch pubs with a cozy atmosphere.

Enjoy the Food Markets:

  • Explore the diverse food stalls at the Foodhallen:

Try different types of food and drink, including local specialties like “bitterballen” (deep-fried meatballs) and “stroopwafel”

  • Remember that Amsterdam is known for its strong emphasis on cycling, so consider renting a bike to experience the city like a local.

Day 3: Cycling through History:

  • Explore the history of the Dutch Anne Frank, exploring the city’s rich history in a fun and interactive way.

Enjoy a “brown cafe” experience:

  • Visit Cafe de Tuin or other similar cafes for a taste of traditional Dutch culture.**

  • Amsterdam is known for its relaxed and tolerant atmosphere, but it’s important to remember that it is still a city with rules and regulations, particularly around cannabis use.

  • Zaanse Schransch: This open-air museum showcases the history of Dutch life:

You can explore traditional crafts like cheese making and clog making.

Things to consider:

  • Consider the historical context:

The “Zaanse Café” in Zaanse Schans is a popular stop for visitors, but it’s important to be aware that the village itself was built on the principles of a strong social safety net and progressive policies.

  • Remember the Dutch tolerance for cannabis use is reflected in their unique coffee shop culture.

Enjoy the “brown” (Dutch) experience:

  • Discover local favorites:

Consider exploring other historical sites, like the Anne Frank House, outside of Amsterdam’s city center.

  • Amsterdam’s canals:

Visit the historic cafés and enjoy the charming ambiance.

  • Enjoy a canal cruise on a Dutch canal boat to experience the charm and beauty of the canals.**

Enjoy a “brown” (Dutch) coffee shop:

  • Enjoying a “Brown café”

  • Enjoy traditional Dutch culture by taking part in the unique traditions they offer.

  • Anne Frank House: Experience the history of the Netherlands.

  • Exploring the Dutch history: This is a great opportunity to enjoy the historical ambiance and learn about the past.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy a relaxing canal boat ride and explore the city from a different perspective.
  • Visit the Anne Frank House, a historic landmark commemorating the life of Anne Frank and her family.

Important Tips:

  • Respect local customs: Be mindful that the Dutch have a different approach to social interactions than some other cultures.
  • Embrace the “brown café” culture: These cafés are a great way to experience traditional Amsterdam: Enjoy a coffee and a “stroopwafel” (a thin waffle filled with caramel) in a cozy setting, and enjoy the atmosphere of the city’s historic cafes.

Enjoy “coffeeshops”:

  • Explore the history of the city:

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, try some local beers or beers.

  • The “brown café” experience is unique to Amsterdam:

They are often found in neighborhoods, not just tourist areas.

Enjoy the Dutch:

Try a variety of cheeses (Gouda, Edam, etc.) and learn about the history of the cheese-making process.

  • Enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Remember:

  • Zaanse Schans is a great place to explore traditional Dutch windmills and architecture.
  • To enjoy a more authentic experience of Amsterdam’s “brown café” culture, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in a local café.

Enjoy the relaxed ambiance, learn about the history of the city:

  • Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the canals, experiencing a unique aspect of the Dutch.

Enjoy the canals:

  • Experience the charm of Amsterdam’s canals and their history with a canal cruise

These are just a few suggestions for things to do while visiting the “brown café” district in Amsterdam. For more information about specific “coffeeshops” and their offerings:

  • Consider:

It’s important to remember that the Netherlands is known for its relaxed approach to cannabis, allowing you to enjoy coffee and the local culture.

Enjoy a “brown café”:

Try a “brown café” in Amsterdam.

These are charming establishments with a unique history.

Enjoy a cozy experience:

  • Enjoy traditional coffees and beers, and enjoy a “polder” (a region reclaimed from the sea)
  • Learn about the Dutch culture of coffee shops:

These are typically small, independent cafés that serve coffee**:

Enjoy a “coffeeshop” experience:

  • Visit a coffee shop in the city,
  • Experience a different aspect of Amsterdam: Enjoy a cup of coffee and enjoy a variety of treats.

For a unique and fun way to experience the city of Amsterdam:

  • Explore the history of the city by visiting local museums and attractions.
  • Learn about the Dutch culture, which is often characterized by its openness and tolerance.

Enjoy the “brown café”:

The “brown café” offers a relaxed atmosphere, with many featuring cozy décor and outdoor seating areas, perfect for enjoying the unique Dutch experience:

  • A relaxing setting for enjoying traditional Dutch

Enjoy the “brown café” culture:

  • Enjoy a variety of coffees and drinks.

Enjoy the canals:

  • Visit one of the numerous canal-side cafés and enjoy a coffee or tea while enjoying the charming ambiance of the city.**

Enjoying

A note on local “coffeeshops”:

  • “Coffee” shops are not just for caffeine, they’re often known for selling other things.
  • A coffee shop is a place where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and some delicious

Try a coffee and a variety of “coffeeshop” experiences:

  • Enjoy the local culture: Enjoy a relaxing coffee and a stroll on a bike through the charming streets.

Remember:

  • This is Amsterdam, a city with its own unique set of rules.
  • Be mindful of the rules and regulations:

Always be respectful of the local culture.

“Coffee Shop” Etiquette:

  • Enjoy a “brown café” experience.
  • Traditional “coffeeshop” etiquette:

Many of these are small, independent establishments with a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Be a responsible tourist:

Enjoy the unique charm of Amsterdam’s “brown cafes” and respect local culture.

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride:

  • Enjoying a traditional “coffeeshop” experience

  • Explore the history of the city

Try a traditional Dutch coffee shop:

  • Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, but remember to be respectful and follow local rules.

Remember that while Amsterdam is known for its liberal drug policies, it’s crucial to be aware of the legal and social context:

  • A “coffee” in Amsterdam means something different than elsewhere.

Enjoy a “brown café” experience:

  • Remember to respect the local culture:

The cannabis-related “Coffee Shop” experience is unique to Amsterdam,

Important information:

  • Find out more about the “coffeeshop” culture:

Remember that in Amsterdam, there are strict rules and regulations surrounding drug use.

Enjoy a relaxing bike ride:

  • Try a local coffee shop for a traditional Dutch experience.

Enjoy a “brown café” experience:

  • Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the cafe.
  • Remember:

Try different types of “Coffee Shop” experiences, such as enjoying the ambiance and trying the variety of local coffees and treats.

Experience the unique nature of the “coffeeshop” culture:

Enjoy a coffee shop like those found in Amsterdam’s canals for its traditional Dutch atmosphere.

Enjoy a coffee:

Enjoy a coffee with a local at one of the many canal-side cafes.

Remember that the legality of cannabis and cannabis products varies significantly by country:

  • It is important to be aware of these differences and act accordingly.

A Coffee Shop Adventure:

  • Always remember to check the rules before entering a coffee shop, as they are not always the same as those in your own country.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of a “coffeeshop” (and enjoy a delicious pastry)

Explore Amsterdam’s “brown cafés”:

  • Enjoy a coffee and a local beer or snack.
  • Relax and enjoy the city’s relaxed culture.

Remember, it’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations regarding cannabis use in your own country before engaging.

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere and experiences of Amsterdam’s cafés:

You can enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks while learning about the history of Dutch coffee shops and the local culture.

Remember:

  • Be respectful of the rules and regulations regarding “coffeeshop” activities:

They are generally relaxed, but remember that it is important to be aware of and respect the local laws.

  • Respect local customs and traditions while enjoying your time in Amsterdam.

Enjoy the coffee shop experience:

  • Enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks at a

Remember, “coffeeshops” are often places with a unique ambiance and history. Try a traditional Dutch cafe:

  • Enjoy the charming atmosphere of the city’s “brown cafes”

  • They are a great place to meet locals and learn about their experiences. Enjoy a “coffeeshop” experience for its variety of beverages and snacks, including local favorites like stroopwafels and bitterballen. Enjoy a coffee shop:

  • These are not always the same as “brown cafes”.

Make sure to be mindful of noise levels and personal space:

  • Enjoying a coffee shop experience responsibly means respecting the laws and customs surrounding cannabis use in public,

Enjoy a “coffeeshop”:

  • Experience Amsterdam’s history and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere

Remember, while “brown cafes” are a common sight in Amsterdam, they are not always as common in other parts of the world. Remember:

Be respectful of local laws and regulations regarding cannabis use.

Enjoy the unique experience:

  • Enjoying a “coffeeshop” is a great way to enjoy a coffee and learn about Dutch culture.

Explore the city’s coffee shop culture:

  • Zaanse Schans:

This charming area in Amsterdam is known for its historic windmills and traditional crafts.

  • Coffee Shops:

Enjoy a “coffeeshop” experience at a cafe in Zaanse Schans.

  • **A key part of the “coffeeshop” culture:

Enjoying local experiences:

  • Enjoying the unique history and atmosphere of these establishments:**

Remember:

  • Be mindful that these are “coffee shops” with a different concept than those you may be familiar with.
  • Respect the “brown cafe” rules:

Enjoy a “coffeeshop” in Amsterdam

Enjoy the coffee shop experience:

  • They offer a variety of food and drinks, including traditional Dutch snacks and beers.**

A note on “Coffee Shop” culture:

  • Respect the local culture
  • Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere
  • Be mindful of noise levels and personal space

Remember: Enjoying a coffee shop experience

  • **Enjoy the charming nature of Amsterdam’s cafés, which are often known for their warm and inviting atmosphere.

For a “brown café”:

  • Enjoy the traditional Dutch food and drink options.

Try a “coffee shop waffle” in a local cafe.

Remember to be respectful:

Respect the rules and regulations of the establishment, including those regarding noise levels and personal space.

  • Be mindful of the local community.
  • Enjoy the canals responsibly and enjoy a variety of traditional Dutch snacks.
  • Enjoy “coffeeshop” culture:

The experience is often relaxed and social, with a focus on enjoying the moment. Try these tips for a respectful and enjoyable experience:

  • Follow local customs and etiquette
  • Be polite and respectful to others
  • Avoid disrupting the peace and enjoy a variety of coffee shop drinks.

Remember:

  • “Coffee shops” are a unique part of Dutch culture and tradition.

Enjoy the “coffee shop” experience with