One Day In Amsterdam: Best Itinerary for First Timers
Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in the entire world, and I visit as many times as I possibly can each year! I’ve had trips where I’ve spent one day in Amsterdam, and others where I’ve been there for almost a week! Here’s an itinerary to follow (with some of my absolute favorite places!) if you want to fit in as much as you can into a quick 24 hour trip to Amsterdam!
Amsterdam is one of the most-visited cities around the world, and rightly so! People flock there to see world-reknown art museums such as the Van Gogh Museum, historic sites like the Anne Frank House, and ride bikes around Holland!
One day in Amsterdam will give you a taste of a city full of nightlife, friendly travelers, amazing food, and a thousand things to do.
Although I’ve been to Amsterdam many times, it is one of the first places that I am always aching to return to. In fact, my husband is begging me to plan another trip there…even though we just returned from our last one four months ago!
Whether this will be your first time traveling internationally in A’Dam or not, you’ll find yourself needing to maximize your time with just 24 hours in Amsterdam. Truth be told, it is difficult to fit everything in. And it can be tricky to figure out what you cannot miss and what is just not worth your time.
This post covers all of the things you should do in one day in Amsterdam itinerary. I’ve designed it from start to finish so that you don’t waste any time traveling back and forth, and you get an amazing taste of this Dutch city.
Overview: One Day in Amsterdam Itinerary
- 8:00 AM: Canal Cruise Tour
- 9:15- 10:00 Nine Streets & Jordaan Neighborhood
- 10:00-10:30 Damrak, Dam Square & The Royal Palace
- 11:00- 12:00 pm The Anne Frank House
- 12:15- 1:30 pm the Kalverstraat, the Begijnhof, and Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market)
- 1:30-2:00 pm Lunch at Albert Cuyp Markt
- 2:00-3:00 pm Heineken Experience
- 3:00-4:30 pm Museumplein (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, or MOCO Museum)
- 5:00 pm – Dutch Dinner
- Evening: Red Light District
- Evening: Drinks in Leidseplein
- Throughout: Dutch Food Along The Way: Cheese, Pickled Herring, Stroopwafels, Poffertjes & Fritjes
Amsterdam in a Day Map
8:00 am – Take a Morning Canal Cruise
The easiest way to see the most of Amsterdam in a day is to jump on a canal cruise. And, trust me, a canal tour is something you cannot miss in Amsterdam.
All over the city of Amsterdam, you’ll find plenty of boats waiting to take you on a journey through the city’s seemingly endless array of waterways. These canal cruises last about an hour and cover the majority of central Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is known as the “Venice of the North” due to how many canals it has, and so, it is much easier to travel by boat than to rent a car or take a hop-on-hop-off bus. Amsterdam was not designed for easy road traffic.
The Amsterdam canal ring is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its 17th-century buildings and waterways- most notably the varied gables of the beautiful homes surrounding the canals.
I make sure to enjoy a canal cruise each time I am in Amsterdam simply because it is such an incredibly unique way to see the city from a new perspective.
⭐ Tip: Captain Jack’s has the best canal cruise in Amsterdam. With beautiful, open boats, a live guide, and a bar on board, you’re sure to have an amazing tour!
Looking for a different canal tour experience? Read my article on the Top 7 Canal Cruises in Amsterdam!
9:15 – Shop Around De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) & Experience Jordaan
The Negen Straatjes is a district in Amsterdam comprised of “Nine Little Streets.” These 9 Streets are known worldwide as being a fantastic shopping destination.
All along the area, you can find boutiques, high-end vintage resale shops, and stores of all kinds. In addition, the streets have an abundance of cafes and bakeries which offer the perfect spot to grab some food during a shopping trip.
If you’re looking for a unique gift for that special someone, De Negen Straatjes is your best bet for finding that stunning souvenir.
10:00 – Stroll Down the Damrak to Dam Square and the Royal Palace
The Damrak is one of the main streets in Amsterdam. There are a thousand things to see on this avenue that winds down toward the center of the city.
Eventually, the Damrak runs into Dam Square– a popular tourist destination that houses landmarks like the Royal Palace and other locations such as Madame Tussaud’s (please, for the love of God, skip this tourist trap!!).
Dam Square is a beautiful area tucked away in the middle of the city. There is always something happening in this square, from street performers to festivals, markets, and shows.
Although you don’t need a ton of time here, it is worth passing through during your day in Amsterdam, and it’s centrally located, so it’s not out of your way at all!
⭐ While I strongly believe that wandering around cities is the best way to see a new place, you could also take a guided walking tour to begin your day in Amsterdam.
This 3-hour walking tour has more than 800 positive reviews, 5 stars, and covers so much of the city!
11:00 – Visit the Anne Frank House
The number one thing you cannot miss during your day in Amsterdam is a visit to the Anne Frank House.
Located just outside the Jordaan neighborhood of Amsterdam, this historical site from World War II is easily accessible from the center of the city. It is about a 10-minute walk from Dam Square, which means it won’t eat into your 24 hours in the city too much.
Anne Frank is one of the most famous voices from the Holocaust. At the age of 13, Anne Frank went into hiding with her family in the Secret Annex, a space that was located in the building that housed Anne’s father’s warehouse.
This is one of the most impactful places I have ever visited. Tour the Secret Annex, learning about what Anne and her family’s life was like before and during the time they were in hiding.
It is so surreal to walk into their hiding place and imagine what it may have been like for them. If you enjoy learning about history at all, you must add this to your itinerary in Amsterdam!
⭐ If you want to visit the Anne Frank House, make sure to book your tickets in advance- they go on sale 6 weeks ahead of time on Tuesdays and always sell out.
11:45 – Taste Dutch Cheese (Kaas) on Your Way Down the Kalverstraat
Next, wind your way down Kalverstraat while you do some shopping and, of course, taste some of the local cheese. This street is an easy walk down to the next stop on your itinerary, so enjoy the hustle and bustle as you make your way!
Holland is famous for its cheese -or Kaas- so, of course, there are cheese shops are ALL over the city. I personally don’t hesitate to pop into every single one I see in the city and snag samples- ha!
There are samples of cheese in any flavor you can imagine- traditional Gouda, lavender, pesto, and even truffle!
You can even grab some pre-packaged cheese to go for some loved ones! It is shrink-wrapped for travel and does not need to be refrigerated.
My favorite cheese in the entire world, Old Amsterdam, is a great one to keep an eye out for!
Want the ultimate luxury experience in Amsterdam? Read about the top private boat tours in the city!
11:55 – Enjoy a Peaceful Moment at the Begijnhof
The Begijnhof is so nearby the Kalverstraat that it is worth a quick detour, and you only need to allot about 10 minutes to this stop.
Just a few minutes walk off the Kalverstraat, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a peaceful oasis lined with historic buildings, trees, and statues.
This court was initially a home for nuns and still provides an oasis for single women. Please be conscious of this when visiting and respect the area appropriately!
12:05 pm – Try Pickled Herring at Herring Stall Jonk
Another stop on your way is a quick pit stop to try this Dutch delicacy…if you’re feeling brave!
Trust me, it’s not as bad as it sounds, and it’s definitely a food to try in Amsterdam. I finally got up the courage to try it during my last trip, and it was good enough that I’ll eat it again!
Get it with chopped onions and sauce on a roll! So tasty.
One of our favorite joints, Herring Stall Jonk, is right near the Begijnhof, and this makes the perfect mid-afternoon grab-and-go snack (that you won’t soon forget!).
12:15 pm – Find Tulip Bulbs at the Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market)
The floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt, is one of the most famous markets in Amsterdam. But, I have to admit that it is a little overrated. Alas, if you can’t make it during tulip season, it might be your best bet to see blooms.
With a day in Amsterdam, you still have time to pass through the market on your way around the city. It’s an “Amsterdam” thing to do to spend a moment or two (literally 5-10 minutes) perusing the Bloemenmarkt for tulip bulbs.
Some of these world-famous blooms are even wrapped and inspected for travel to the United States, so feel free to grab some to take home!
🚨 Tip: Check that the bulbs you are purchasing have the Inspection sticker or come with a certificate showing they’re cleared and safe for travel.
This MUST be on your bulbs in order to avoid confiscation at the airport on your way home.
1:30 pm – Grab Street Food at Albert Cuyp Markt
By now, it is lunchtime! The best local place to grab street food in Amsterdam is about a 20 minute walk (or quick tram ride) from the Bloemenmarkt. The Albert Cuyp Markt– a massive permanent market teeming with locals, cultural foods, and original Dutch souvenirs. It is open every single day!
The Dutch are famous for their hot stroopwafels. These waffle-like cookies are stuffed with caramel syrup, and artisans at the market make them fresh each day.
My personal favorite food to grab here are poffertjes, a traditional Dutch pancake. Get some with Nutella and whipped cream on top.
I promise you won’t be disappointed.
⭐ If you are in Amsterdam on a Saturday morning, I would also highly recommend my favorite market- the Noordermarkt! It is a more local-type market and is found in the Jordaan neighborhood of Amsterdam.
2:00 pm – Tour the Heineken Experience
One day in Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without trying some brews from Holland. Lucky for you, the very first Heineken Brewery is located about 5 minutes from Albert Cuyp.
More than 150 years ago, Heineken began brewing here, delivering their beer by horse-drawn carriage.
The Heineken Experience immerses visitors in the creation of the Heineken brand and beer from beginning to end. There are so many interactive elements that (along with the beer, of course!) make this an absolute must-visit while you’re in the city.
The best part? Free tastings with every tour!
⭐ Tip: Book your Heineken Experience ticket early to avoid lines. This also allows you the best pick of a time frame so that you can better plan your day in the city.
3:00 pm – Walk Through the Museumplein
Take your lunch and meander over to the Museumplein, an area that is so named because most of the museums in the city are located in the area.
Although the museums in Amsterdam are well worth a visit, consider that you have a short amount of time in the city. I suggest limiting yourself to an hour or two if you want to visit one.
On the other hand, the park on the back side of the Rijksmuseum is a great space to enjoy some sunshine and fresh air. Sit among the fountains and blooms in this beautiful, open, grassy area and enjoy your lunch.
Here are a few of the museums in Amsterdam that I recommend:
Van Gogh Museum
One of the most famous museums in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum showcases the works and life of Vincent Van Gogh, a famous Dutch artist. See masterpieces like Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters, and even a self-portrait or two.
Rijksmuseum
A museum known worldwide, the Rijksmuseum holds a large manner of artwork, including pieces from well-known artists like Vermeer and Rembrandt. This museum is stunning, but it is also massive, so be sure you don’t spend hours here!
MOCO Museum
One of the foremost modern art museums, MOCO is well worth your time to visit. You’ll find various forms of modern art including street art and many others on display here.
🚨 Tip: The IAmsterdam sign HAS MOVED! It is no longer along the back of the Rijksmuseum.
If you’d like a photo with this iconic sign, you can find one outside of Schiphol Airport, and another near Sloterplas Lake in West Amsterdam.
5:00 pm – Enjoy a Traditional Dutch Dinner
Take your pick of two incredible Dutch dinner experiences:
✔️ A Rijstaffel Dinner
Although it may not sound like it, Indonesian culture is closely related to the Dutch culture in Amsterdam due to the fact that the Dutch colonized the East Indies centuries ago.
One thing that has remained in the Netherlands is Indonesian Rice Table dinners, or “Rijstaffel.”
This dinner experience was the best part of my most recent trip to the city.
Sit and enjoy a family-style dinner with more types of food than you can possibly imagine. Begin with a plate of rice, and add to your plate whatever strikes your fancy. You can try everything, or just try what looks delicious!
Although I’ve tried a few by now, my favorite rijstaffel dinner so far has been at Srikandi. We had plates and plates full of chicken, vegetables, curry, shrimp, noodles, and other tasty delicacies.
✔️ A Traditional Dutch Stamppot
Moeder’s is an incredibly popular restaurant in Amsterdam known for serving up steaming hot Hotchpotch.
Hotchpotch, traditional Dutch stamppot, are dishes filled with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and sausage.
The atmosphere in Moeder’s is so homey and nostalgic, you won’t forget the experience!
After dinner – See the Red Light District
The Red Light District is one of the things that Amsterdam is most famous for.
If you’re up for an adventure, or just looking to better understand some of the history and culture of Amsterdam, spend part of your evening exploring the Red Light District.
This area is well-known for being a hub for prostitution, which is legal in Amsterdam.
Just be prepared! While it is interesting to see the area that is so famously joked about, it is definitely very graphic. Even just walking around the area will give you access to lewd material, views, and stores. Enter with caution!
⭐ Pro Tip: It is safe to walk around the Red Light District, but it can be quite crowded. I don’t recommend you plan to eat or drink in the area– just pass through. About 20 minutes is more than enough time to “see” it.
Evening walk – Try Pomme Frites from Manneken Pis
On your way out of the Red Light District, stop and try pomme frites at Mannekenpis.
Although these fries are technically Belgian (or Vlaamse), they are ALL over Amsterdam and have become quite a Dutch food treat!
They come served in a cone- perfect for a grab-and-go late night snack!
Typically, they come with mayonnaise on top, a Dutch specialty!
If mayonnaise isn’t your thing, they have more than 20 other sauces to try!
Night – End Your Day With Nightlife in Leidseplein
Leidseplein is where the party is. In this central area of Amsterdam, you can find some famous European nightlife to enjoy as you wind down your day in Amsterdam.
Here, there are so many charming cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating where you can have dinner and aperitifs.
My favorite in the area is Café de Waard. This cafe has beautiful covered seating with heaters and blankets as well as an incredibly delicious menu. Try Bitterballen here- another traditional Dutch food!
After dinner, this city square is the perfect place to people-watch as the nightlife in Amsterdam heats up and you wind down for a breezy evening among the canals.
Leidseplein offers a little bit of everything: concert venues, bars, coffee shops, and many other activities that will help you create an evening in Amsterdam you won’t soon forget.
The first coffee shop in the world, the Bulldog, has a location here. It is a very popular stop on many Amsterdam itineraries due to its unique atmosphere and laid-back vibe.
What Else to Do With 24 Hours in Amsterdam
The one day in Amsterdam itinerary above is packed full with the best things to do. But, we all have different interests. Here are a few other things you might consider substituting into your itinerary:
Visit Other Museums
Amsterdam has a ton of museums within the center city limits, so you can certainly explore one that more suits your fancy if you’d like!
Some of the most popular are the Amsterdam Tulip Museum, the Amsterdam Cheese Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum, a museum that focuses on contemporary art and design.
Rent a Bike to Explore Vondelpark
Vondelpark is a large park situated in the middle of center-city Amsterdam.
It is a stunning green space ideal for outdoor activities. You’ll often find many locals here relaxing here with friends, eating a light lunch, or playing music alongside trees and ponds.
Rent a bike and try your hand at biking like the Dutch! I recommend staying in and near Vondelpark for your first ride just to avoid congested bike paths and confusing traffic signals.
Swing on the A’Dam Lookout
The A’dam Lookout is a virtual and realistic experience that is super unique and fun to do!
Race to the top of the observation deck and see the city of Amsterdam from a birds-eye-view. Visitors can also sit through a virtual reality rollercoaster ride through the city, use interactive binoculars to learn about key places, and swing over the edge of the tower for a thrill!
Frequently Asked Questions: One Day in Amsterdam Itinerary
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about exploring Amsterdam in a day:
Is One Day in Amsterdam Enough?
Honestly, no. One day is not enough time to enjoy Amsterdam. There is so much to do and see there that you need multiple days. In addition, there are so many areas just outside of the city worth visiting.
Sure, 24 hours in Amsterdam is better than nothing. Can you do Amsterdam in 24 hours? No. But you can see SOME of it.
If you have a layover, or just one day to squeeze into your itinerary, take advantage of it! But, if you have some extra time, I recommend you spend at least four days in Amsterdam!
Should I Get the IAmsterdam City Card?
The IAmsterdam City Card can be incredibly useful and valuable depending on what you plan to see!
It offers you a free canal cruise, public transportation, access to multiple museums and attractions, and a free bike rental! It certainly can be worth the price if you are going to use all of the above!
Is Amsterdam Walkable?
Yes, Amsterdam is one of the most walkable cities in Europe. You can get around the entirety of central Amsterdam without using any other transport, though their tram network is a fantastic option if you do not wish to walk a lot.
Is Amsterdam sketchy at night?
Amsterdam is perfectly safe to walk around at night. Even walking through Amsterdam as late as 1:00 AM, I have never felt unsafe. That being said, keep your wits about you and be aware, but Amsterdam does not turn seedy in the evenings.
Vital Tips For One Day in Amsterdam
After traveling in Amsterdam many times over the past decade, I’ve come to figure out some tips that will absolutely help you make the most of one day in Amsterdam:
Get Your Anne Frank Tickets Early
I cannot tell you how many people I’ve seen posting online desperately trying to find Anne Frank tickets.
They sell out CONSTANTLY.
Tickets are released every Tuesday at 10:00 AM (Amsterdam Time) for tickets SIX WEEKS from then. The tickets online are released on Tuesday for that ENTIRE week of bookings.
Set an alarm. Buy the tickets immediately. If you don’t, you WILL NOT get tickets.
Buy Anne Frank House tickets here!
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Speaking Dutch…but Know You Don’t Have To
Dutch can be a difficult language to pick up. Definitely try speaking it while you’re in Amsterdam! You may just pick up a few key Dutch words.
However, rest assured that pretty much everyone in Amsterdam speaks English. You’ll likely not have any issues communicating with locals.
Coffee Shops Don’t Serve Coffee
Coffee shops in the Netherlands are NOT American coffee shops. They are places to buy and use cannabis.
If you are looking for regular coffee, you want a cafe!
For God’s Sake…STAY OUT OF THE BIKE LANE!
Keep an eye out for the red bricks which indicate the bike lanes in Amsterdam and stay out of them!
If you’re not paying attention, you’re apt to step in front of a fast-moving bike and get hurt or yelled at!
Don’t Use Your Phone in the Red Light District
The Red Light District is VERY strict about phone usage- in particular usage of the phone’s camera.
I highly recommend keeping your phone away for your time in the area. Photos of the women in the windows are not allowed, and the bouncers are VERY strict with this rule.
Walk if You Can
There are plenty of ways to get around the city of Amsterdam. You can bike, take the tram, or even ride the bus. Their public transportation is efficient and easy to use.
That being said, I still recommend walking where you can. Your steps will certainly add up, but you will see so much more of the city this way.
How to Get from Amsterdam Airport to City Center
The easiest way to get into the city center from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is by train. This is the fastest, easiest, and cheapest option.
Train tickets from Schiphol to Centraal Station are just over €5.00 and run about every 15 minutes. You can buy train tickets before heading to the platform in the airport.
Centraal Station is right in the city, so you can walk outside and begin your explorations!
If you’re interested in starting your adventures somewhere else in the city, you can always take the bus, which stops at various places throughout Amsterdam. Likewise, taxis are readily available options.
⭐If you don’t want to bother with transport, here are the top Amsterdam hotels with free shuttles to and from the airport!
How To Get Around Amsterdam in A Day
Covering Amsterdam in a day means you have to be MO-VING! And quickly. This is how I recommend you get around Amsterdam (And what I do when I’m there!).
Walking
Once you’re in center city Amsterdam, you can see pretty much everything by walking. Amsterdam is an incredibly walkable city.
Plus, walking around is a beautiful way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and people in the city.
Trams
The tram system in Amsterdam is next level. You can definitely use them to get places a little faster if you’d like.
They’re incredibly easy to use, and the routes and timetables are integrated with cellular apps like Google Maps. New technology on the trams also lets you tap in and out with your Apple pay or tappable card in order to pay- so no more buying tickets!
Trains
The only time I recommend you use trains to get around during your one day in Amsterdam is to and from the airport or if you’re headed out of the city for some reason.
Centraal Station in Amsterdam is easily connected to Schiphol International Airport as well as other towns like Utrecht, Rotterdam, or Haarlem.
🚨 Do NOT rent a car in Amsterdam! It is useless, and you will spend half your time sitting in traffic!
Where to Stay in Amsterdam On a First Visit
Although Amsterdam isn’t the largest city, it is important that you stay in the right area. This will help you maximize your time, stay safe, and have easy access to amenities and attractions. Here are a few of my favorite places to stay in A’Dam:
InntelHotels Amsterdam Centre
Address: Nieuwezijds Kolk 19, 1012 PV Amsterdam, Netherlands
InntelHotels Amsterdam Centre is a modern, comfortable, and sleek hotel is located less than a 10-minute walk from Centraal Station in Amsterdam. It is close to everything, but it is also on a side street, meaning you won’t be kept up by noise.
I’ve stayed here countless times and have always been impressed by the staff, the cleanliness, and the comfort of the property. You can’t beat this location!
⭐ Click here to Check Availability for Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre!
Eden Hotel Amsterdam
Address: Amstel 144, 1017 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands
This is hands down my favorite hotel in Amsterdam city center right now. You’ll need to hop on a tram from Centraal Station in order to reach it, but it is fantastic.
The rooms are updated, the common areas are stunning, and it is located right on the Amstel River and Rembrandtplein- a great space for dining and nightlife (but not too noisy). You’re within walking distance to everything, but have a super comfy place to come back to for rest!
You can read my full review of Eden Hotel Amsterdam here!
⭐ Click here to Book a Stay at Eden Hotel Amsterdam!
Conclusion: One Day in Amsterdam Itinerary
Get ready…this day in Amsterdam is about to be one of the best days of your life. Amsterdam is an amazing city, and it will steal your heart in just 24 hours.
Follow this itinerary and you’ll be sure to catch all of the major sights that are must-sees. Be careful, though. I have no doubt that after experiencing the Netherlands at its best you’ll want to be back sometime VERY soon!
If you’re headed to Amsterdam soon, here are some more helpful tips:
✅ My favorite Amsterdam itinerary for 4 days!
✅ All the Canal Cruises I recommend in Amsterdam- including private tours!
✅ An Amsterdam Bucket List to complete!
✅ Everything you need to know for visiting the Anne Frank House
✅ Top Weekend Trips from Amsterdam
✅ Review on my #1 Place to stay in Amsterdam
✅ If you’re biking around the city, here’s what you need to know!
✅ Wondering if you can speak English in Amsterdam? Or do you need to greet in Dutch?
