Amsterdam Netherlands 6 Day Itinerary

Amsterdam: 6-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel (social atmosphere), Stayokay Amsterdam Stadsdoelen (central location)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel V Nesplein (stylish, central), Room Mate Aitana (modern design, canal views)
  • Luxury: Pulitzer Amsterdam (historic elegance), The Dylan Amsterdam (boutique charm)

Transportation:

  • I amsterdam City Card: Unlimited public transport (trams, buses, metros), free entry to many museums and attractions.
  • Walking: Amsterdam is very walkable, especially the city center.
  • Bikes: Rent a bike for a truly Dutch experience! Plenty of rental shops available.
  • Public Transport: Efficient tram, bus, and metro system.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated (5-10%).
  • Coffee Shops: Cannabis is legal in designated “coffee shops.”
  • Canal Safety: Be aware of bikes and boats when walking near canals.

Day 1: Arrival & Canal Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). Take the train to Amsterdam Centraal Station (€4-5, 20 minutes). Check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming Jordaan district, known for its canals, cafes, and independent boutiques. Enjoy lunch at De Egelantier for traditional Dutch cuisine.
  • Evening: Take a canal cruise to admire Amsterdam from the water. Enjoy dinner at Moeders, famous for their home-cooked comfort food.

Day 2: Museum Hopping & Artistic Inspiration

  • Morning: Visit the Anne Frank House (book tickets online in advance). Reflect on this poignant historical site.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Rijksmuseum, housing masterpieces by Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Evening: Immerse yourself in Van Gogh’s world at the Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy dinner at De Kas, a restaurant housed in a former greenhouse with innovative seasonal dishes.

Day 3: Market Buzz & Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Browse the colorful stalls of Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam’s largest and oldest outdoor market.
  • Afternoon: Discover the hidden courtyard of Begijnhof, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Visit the quirky Electric Ladyland fluorescent art museum.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Winkel 43, famous for their apple pie.

Day 4: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans & Volendam

  • Morning: Take a scenic train ride (30 minutes) to Zaanse Schans, a historic windmill village. Explore traditional wooden houses and workshops.
  • Afternoon: Continue by bus (20 minutes) to the picturesque fishing village of Volendam. Wander through the harbor, try fresh seafood, and admire the colorful clogs.

Day 5: Heineken Experience & Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit the interactive Heineken Experience for a fun exploration of the world-famous beer brand. Enjoy a tasting at the end!
  • Afternoon: Relax in Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park. Have a picnic or rent a boat.
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in De Pijp district with its trendy bars and clubs.

Day 6: Farewell & Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation. Do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).

Other Things to Consider:

  • Explore beyond the city center: Visit the NEMO Science Museum, take a ferry to the EYE Film Institute, or discover the tranquil Artis Royal Zoo.

  • Experience Dutch culture: Attend a concert at the Concertgebouw, enjoy a traditional “borrel” (drinks and snacks) with locals, or learn some basic Dutch phrases.

  • Relax by the canals: Find a cozy café terrace and soak in the atmosphere of Amsterdam’s waterways.

Enjoy your trip to Amsterdam!