Amsterdam the Netherlands 4 Day Itinerary

Amsterdam: 4-Day Itinerary for Tourists

This itinerary focuses on classic Amsterdam experiences and popular attractions. It can be easily adjusted based on your interests!

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Stayokay Amsterdam Stadsdoelen (hostel in a historical building), The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel (known for its social atmosphere).
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam, The Dylan Amsterdam (boutique hotels with unique charm)
  • Luxury: The Conservatorium Hotel, Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam (for a truly indulgent experience).

Choose your accommodation based on your budget and preferences. This itinerary assumes a hotel or other lodging in the city center.

Day 1: Canals & History

  • Morning: Explore the charming canals of Amsterdam with a canal cruise. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and see the iconic sights from a unique perspective.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Anne Frank House, a sobering yet essential experience. Remember to book tickets online in advance as they sell out quickly!

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Moeders, a restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and Dutch comfort food.
  • Experience the vibrant Amsterdam nightlife with a stroll through the Red Light District. While not for everyone, it’s a renowned part of the city and worth exploring from a historical perspective (it’s a former shipyard area).

Things to know:

  • Book your Anne Frank House tickets online: You can buy them online in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city: Rent a bike for easy navigation through the charming canals and streets.
  • Be aware of the crowds: Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for lines at attractions and book tickets ahead if possible.

Tips:

  • Download a bike route app: This will help you avoid crowded areas and find quieter routes to explore the city.
  • Pack for all weather: Even in summer, it’s wise to expect rain and pack accordingly.

Transportation:

  • Tram/Bus/Metro: Purchase an Amsterdam Travel Ticket (GVB) for unlimited travel on public transportation.

Day 2: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Rijksmuseum: Explore Dutch Masters like Rembrandt and Van Gogh in this world-renowned museum.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at a “broodje kroket” stand, a quintessential Amsterdam snack.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world.

Day 3: Exploring the Past

  • Morning: Take a ferry across the canals and visit the Amsterdam Centraal Station. It’s a great starting point for exploring historical neighborhoods.
  • Lunch: Indulge in a traditional Dutch lunch of “broodje haring” (herring sandwich) and “friet” (fries).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Anne Frank House, but remember to book tickets online beforehand!

Day 4: Local Flavors & Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Explore the Jordaan neighborhood, a charming area with independent shops, cafes, and canals.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Vondelpark with fresh Dutch cheese and bread from a local market.

  • Afternoon: Visit De Pijp, a vibrant and multicultural neighborhood known for its lively nightlife and diverse culinary scene. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area offering international cuisine.

Things to do (choose based on your interest)

  • Explore Amsterdam’s museums: The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and more.
  • Take a boat tour: See the city from a different perspective and learn about its history.
  • Visit the Heineken Experience: A fun and interactive way to learn about the famous Dutch brewery (consider this on your 4th day if you are interested in experiencing Amsterdam’s history of brewing.

Things to do (choose one or two for each day)

  • Day 1: Explore the Jordaan neighborhood, known for its charming canals, bridges, and independent shops.

  • Day 2: Visit the Rijksmuseum and enjoy the historical atmosphere of this world-renowned institution.

  • Visit a “brown cafe” for a traditional Dutch experience, try a local beer or “jenever” (Dutch gin).

  • Day 3: Wander through the canals, checking out the charming houses and cafes along the way.

  • Explore the Jordaan’s: Explore the quirky shops and boutiques along the canals.

  • Wander through the vibrant “Jordaan”: Discover this historic neighborhood with its independent shops and art galleries.

  • Experience the local market: Enjoy a variety of Dutch goods, from fresh flowers to local cheeses and breads.

  • Visit the Anne Frank House & Museum: This is a must-do for any visitor to Amsterdam.

Day 4: Choosing Your Adventure

  • Visit De Pijp, a neighborhood known for its diverse restaurants and lively bars.
  • Enjoy a canal cruise, but this time, focus on exploring the hidden canals and bridges rather than the main ones.

Things to note:

  • Amsterdam is a walkable & bikeable city: Wear comfortable shoes and explore the charming streets and canals.
  • Be sure to visit the “Jordaan” bookstore: The “Nine Muses Bookshop” is a great place to find unique books and souvenirs.
  • Canal cruises are popular: Book online or purchase tickets in advance from the tourist office.

Food Recommendations:

  • Indulge in Dutch cuisine: Explore the local food scene by trying traditional dishes like “stamppot” (mashed potatoes with vegetables and vegetables) and “bitterballen” (crispy fried meatballs).
  • Experience Indonesian food: Amsterdam has a strong culinary connection to Indonesia, try some authentic “rijsttafel” (rice table) for a delicious and unique meal.

Accommodation Recommendations:

  • Budget: Explore hostels in the Jordaan, known for its bohemian charm and affordability.

  • Mid-Range: Consider a boutique hotel like the Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam for a cozy stay with character.

  • Boutique hotels: Enjoy a stay in the “De Pijp” area, known for its stylish accommodation options.

  • Fine dining experiences: Explore local restaurants for unique and memorable meals.

  • Explore the canals by boat or on foot: Enjoy a different perspective of Amsterdam’s charm.

  • Visit the “brown cafes” in the city. These cafes are often cozy and traditional, offering a glimpse into Amsterdam’s past.

  • Experience the unique atmosphere of the “De Pijp” market.

Accommodation:

  • Explore the charming canals: Enjoy the picturesque scenery and soak in the local ambiance.
  • Consider a “brown cafe” hopping experience: Visit several traditional cafes, savor local drinks and snacks, and immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife.

Things to do:

  • Wander through the “De Pijp” neighborhood: Enjoy the charming canals and bridges while exploring the local shops and restaurants.

Day 1:

  • Explore Amsterdam’s canal system: Take a leisurely stroll along the canals, marveling at the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere.
  • Visit the “Albert Cuyp Market”: Enjoy the hustle and bustle of this popular market in Amsterdam’s vibrant De Pijp district.

Day 2:

  • Explore the “Jordaan” neighborhood: Wander through the charming streets and canals, stopping to admire the quaint houses, cafes, and shops along the way.
  • Visit the Rijksmuseum: Enjoy a variety of traditional food stalls and cafes offering affordable yet tasty options.
  • Discover local art and culture:

Transportation:

  • Explore the “city center”: Amsterdam’s city center is easily walkable and bikeable, making it easy to explore museums like the Anne Frank House (remember, these are just suggestions) or explore the different museums and galleries.
  • Purchase a “bike pass”: This allows for unlimited travel on Amsterdam’s public transport network.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Anne Frank House, a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of remembering and learning from history.

  • Explore the canals, enjoying the unique Dutch cuisine:

  • Enjoy a “culturally immersive” experience: Take a tour of the local canal markets.

  • Consider a visit to the “Heineken Experience” for a fun and interactive journey into the world of beer brewing.

Things to note:

  • This is a great option for visitors who want to learn about Dutch history and culture.

  • Visit the “Rijksmuseum”, a museum dedicated to the history of Amsterdam.

  • Enjoy a traditional Dutch meal: Enjoying the local culture,

  • Explore the “De Pijp” area by bike or on foot.

  • Consider visiting the Anne Frank House: Find out about its history and origins,

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the “De Pijp” market, a cultural experience in itself!

  • Enjoy a canal boat tour from the “canal house museum”

This itinerary is just a starting point. You can customize it to fit your interests and schedule. For example:

  • Swap out activities: If you’re not interested in “touristy” things, skip the “brown cafe” experience and spend an afternoon exploring the Rijksmuseum Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Amsterdam.

Add local experiences:

  • Explore the vibrant “De Pijp” neighborhood, with its diverse shops and restaurants.

  • Enjoy the city’s many cafes and restaurants while walking the canals.

  • Explore the city’s unique history: Visit the Anne Frank House and the canal boat museum.

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Explore the nightlife of “De Pijp” or “The Jordaan” in the evening.