Amsterdam the Netherlands 4 Day Itinerary

Amsterdam 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center

  • Morning:

    • Check-in at your accommodation. Recommended areas: Jordaan, De Pijp, or Centrum. (Ex: The Hoxton, Amsterdam, Flying Pig Downtown)
    • Start with a traditional Dutch breakfast at Winkel 43 in Jordaan district.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the iconic Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
    • Next, head to the nearby Van Gogh Museum to explore the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s works.

  • Evening:

    • Stroll around the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood and enjoy dinner at Cafe de Joss or Bakers & Roasters.
    • End your day with a canal cruise. (Recommended: Blue Boat Company or Lovers Canal Cruises)

Day 2: Anne Frank House, Vondelpark, & Foodie Exploration

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Book your tickets online to avoid long queues.
    • Grab a quick bite at Pannenkoeken Huys for Dutch pancakes.

  • Afternoon:

    • Relax at Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park, perfect for a picnic or just enjoying the scenery.
    • Explore Leidseplein area, visit the Museum of the Canals (Het Grachtenhuis) or Madame Tussauds.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Brammibal’s Donuts & Waffles for unique and delicious donuts or waffles.
    • Explore the vibrant nightlife in De Pijp, Leidseplein, or Rembrandtplein.

Day 3: Amsterdam East Side & Food Markets

  • Morning:

    • Start with breakfast at Café Winkel 43 in the trendy neighborhood of De Pijp.
    • Visit the Albert Cuyp Market, Europe’s largest outdoor market, for a glimpse of local life and shopping.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to Eastern Docklands and explore the modern architecture, including the NEMO Science Museum and Eye Film Institute.
    • Take a ferry (free with GVB travelcard) from Central Station to NDSM Wharf, an urban playground with street art, food trucks, and events.

  • Evening:

    • Dine at Pllek or Café Restaurant Oostoever, both located on the NDSM Wharf.
    • Return to your accommodation via Central Station and explore Rembrandtplein’s nightlife options.

Day 4: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans & Windmills

  • Whole Day:
    • Take a day trip to the picturesque Zaanse Schans. You can reach it by train from Amsterdam Central Station (30 minutes).
    • Explore the open-air museum with its windmills, traditional houses, and workshops.
    • Don’t miss the cheese farm Caerleel or clog-making demonstrations.
    • Return to Amsterdam in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at De Kas, where dishes are made from ingredients grown on-site.

Things to Know:

  • Amsterdam is bike-friendly; rent a bike to explore the city.
  • Public transport (GVB) offers a travel card for unlimited travel within 24, 48, 72, or 96 hours.
  • Most stores and restaurants close on Sunday afternoon, so plan accordingly.
  • Respect local customs, such as not cycling on the pavement and always smoking in designated areas.