The Perfect 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary Guide

Thinking about taking a trip to Amsterdam? Here’s the only Amsterdam itinerary you’ll need for the perfect 3 days in the Dutch capital.

Updated: Completely updated for 2025

After spending two weeks weaving through the canals, leafy parks, and effortlessly stylish neighborhoods of Amsterdam, I can confidently say this city has settled into my top cities in the world—and it’s not budging anytime soon.

There’s something magnetic about Amsterdam’s energy. It strikes that rare balance: big enough to stay interesting, small enough to feel like you’ve conquered it. It’s a city built for both locals and travelers, where biking is more than just transport—it’s a lifestyle—and where the café culture invites you to linger long after your oat flat white has gone cold.

Sure, the weather can be temperamental (think: grey skies and surprise rain showers), but when the sun does shine—even briefly—it lights up the city in a way that feels cinematic. I spent my days ducking into sunlit cafes, discovering pocket-sized museums, and unwinding in wellness spaces that make self-care feel like second nature.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam—or at least daydreaming about one. Let me nudge you into action: 3 days in Amsterdam is the sweet spot. It’s just enough time to explore the city’s greatest hits and sneak off the tourist track.

In this guide, I’m sharing the ultimate 3 day Amsterdam itinerary, based on real experience (two weeks, dozens of bike rides, far too many coffees). Whether you’re after serene places to stay, the top sights, or slow-living moments in one of Europe’s most charming capitals, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive into how to spend three feel-good, soul-filling days in Amsterdam.

*This ‘ 3 day Amsterdam itinerary’ travel guide contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top-quality content for free.

Getting to Amsterdam

Getting to and around Amsterdam couldn’t be easier. The city is well connected to the rest of the Netherlands, Europe, and beyond by bus, train, and plane.

By plane– If you’re coming in from further away, you’ll probably arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, located just southwest of the city. From the airport, you can easily take a train to Amsterdam Centraal Station and beyond.

Trains are easy to locate, just follow the signs from arrivals to the train station and then take any train that goes to Amsterdam Centraal. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Eindhoven airport is also another airport option, and then an easy but longer train ride into the city.

By Train – Trains link Amsterdam with most cities in the Netherlands, such as Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Thalys high-speed trains also connect Amsterdam with Paris, Brussels, and Antwerp, and there are train links between German cities and Amsterdam Central Station; however, you might need to change quite a few times.

Your connections will really depend on your origin and destination, so it’s best to use a booking platform to help you work out all the options. I use and highly recommend Omio, where you can check out the best train and bus connections to Amsterdam from your origin destination.

From London, you can also get to Amsterdam by Eurostar.

By Bus – Flixbus, as well as a variety of local companies, connect Amsterdam with many different European cities. Taking the bus can be much more direct and a better option for budget travelers. Again, it’s best to use Omio to check out all your bus options to Amsterdam.

Getting Around

Getting around Amsterdam is very straightforward. Most of the compact city center is walkable, but you can also get around by renting a bicycle and cruising around with the locals.

Bicycle– You’ll see many places that rent bikes around the center of Amsterdam. One of the best options I found is Black Bikes, which has many locations around the city. You can rent a city bike for 3 hours, but it’s worth going for at least 24 hours. This is the best way to get around and cover more ground, especially if it’s a nice day.

Metro & Tram– Amsterdam has a great metro system that connects the suburbs to the city center. It’s perfect for when you’re exploring some neighborhoods a little further out. Stations are, however, quite limited in the center so it won’t really help you to get around the immediate center.

The other option is trams, which traverse the city streets. I didn’t end up working them out as I found myself walking everywhere. One-hour tickets can be purchased on board the tram, or, if you have an I Amsterdam City Card, you’ll be able to use the trams and all other public transportation in the city for free. The card also gives you free entry to many of the city’s sights as well, so it’s well worth it.

If you plan to use a fair bit of public transportation, it’s probably a good idea to purchase a GVB Public Transport Ticket that lasts from 1-7 days. The ticket offers access to all public transportation.

Where to Stay

There are many places to stay in Amsterdam for the ultimate relaxation experience. I’d highly recommend staying in the city center or as close as possible for convenience and ease if it’s your first time in the city. The trendy neighborhood of De Pijp is also a great option for where to stay in Amsterdam.

Here are the best places to stay in Amsterdam for a top-quality, wellness-focused stay.

Pulitzer Amsterdam – A fairy‑tale collection of 25 interlinked canal houses transformed into a boutique haven, brimming with historic charm, leafy courtyards, and a laid‑back literary vibe.

De Durgerdam – A lakeside escape just outside the city, where rustic chic meets waterfront serenity—perfect for unplugging from the urban buzz without straying too far.

Sir Albert – Set in a former diamond factory, this stylish, design‑driven hotel in De Pijp fuses industrial cool with sumptuous comforts, plus a hip café that draws both locals and travelers.

The Hoxton – The perfect choice for those looking for a boutique stay in Amsterdam, this beautifully decorated hotel provides gets with a super stylish stay in Amsterdam. Rooms are modern and unique with retro touches, just make sure to grab one overlooking the beautiful canals.

De L’Europe Amsterdam – For those looking to splash out a little, look no further than De L’Europe. Located in a converted Medieval fortress, this 5-star hotel is stunning for decor, facilities, and luxury. Classically designed suites with Carrara marble bathrooms, a top-notch wellness center with pool, spa, gym, and saunas, and an on-site 2-Michelin-star French brasserie all make this option unbeatable.

Where to Eat

Amsterdam is overflowing with incredible places to eat, from cozy canal-side bistros to cutting-edge culinary hotspots—you’ll run out of time long before you run out of great meals.

The city is a food lover’s playground, with everything from classic Dutch dishes to globally inspired menus, all served with that unmistakable Amsterdam flair.

Restaurants

De Kas – Housed in a restored greenhouse dating to the 1920s, this Michelin‑starred gem serves a daily-changing farm‑to‑table menu featuring ultra‑fresh produce picked on-site and nearby fields.

Gertrude – A cozy, candlelit bistro in Oud‑West with a seasonal, French‑leaning menu and an enviable wine list, plus a sunny terrace that locals adore

Kikkie van de Prinsensluis – A laid‑back canal‑side darling, best known for its smash burger that perfectly balances crispy edges and juicy charm.

Little Collins De Pijp – Hip Antipodean brunch spot in De Pijp serving creative avocado toasts, smoothies, and killer coffee in a bright, buzzy space.

Cafe Restaurant Amsterdam – A waterfront classic offering hearty Dutch and international dishes in a warm, welcoming canal‑side dining room.

Buffet Van Odette – Stylish all-day eatery with pedigree; expect generous sharing plates, playful twists on comfort food, and a buzz that ramps up come evening.

RIJKS – The Rijksmuseum’s flagship restaurant, where chef Joris Bijdendijk elevates modern‑Dutch cuisine to Michelin‑level artistry in a grand setting.

Arca – Modern European small‑plates and natural wine bar tucked into a hidden De Pijp courtyard, cool, calm, and curated.

Kaagman & Kortekaas – Island‑style canal café with sunny terraces and a menu of fresh, flavorful dishes—think seasonal snacks, light mains, and enviable ambiance.

Cafes & Bars

Kafenion– A hip specialty coffee shop and one of the best coffee spots in Jordaan.

Pluk– A flower-themed cafe with outdoor tables, a pretty setting, and the perfect place for a mid-morning coffee.

Glouglou – A beloved natural wine bar in De Pijp where the pours are funky, the vibe is effortlessly cool, and the terrace buzzes with locals from aperitif hour till late.

Uncommon – A sleek, minimalist coffee and brunch spot where single-origin brews meet inventive plates—think ricotta pancakes and miso mushrooms—in a space that feels like a Nordic design showroom.

Chun Cafe– The most amazing spot in Amsterdam for coffee and matcha.

Top Tip: Coffee shops and cafes are not the same thing in Amsterdam. Cafes are for coffee, and coffee shops are for smoking marijuana and consuming other soft drugs like mushrooms. They are mainly found around the Red Light District, and you’ll be able to smell them before you see them. They aren’t allowed to serve alcohol, only tea and soft drinks to consume with your cannabis.

Where to Shop

Cloud – Part gallery, part concept store, make sure to pop into Cloud when walking around this trendy neighborhood. Come here to grab a coffee, see some art and shop for home decor.

Skins Cosmetics – It’s easy to spree around the 9 Straatjes neighborhood and if you’re looking for skincare, make sure not to miss this gem. The perfect place to shop for clean skincare and discover some new brands too.

3 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary Overview

Find more about each of these in the itinerary below.

The Perfect 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary

Day One- The Canals and Neighbourhoods

Start the first day of your Amsterdam itinerary by exploring the most famous aspect of the city; its canals. You’ll find canals pretty much everywhere you go in Amsterdam but some areas are prettier than others.

The main areas to head to on day one are Jordaan and De 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets) where you’ll be able to find dreamy canal streets, beautiful boutiques, and classy cafes. These were some of my favorite neighborhoods to visit in Amsterdam.

Damrak

Start at Amsterdam Centraal Station and head to Damrak. You’ll soon come across the tour boats’ docks and in front of them- the famous, narrow canal houses known as the Damrak waterfront. The houses almost look like gingerbread houses that might topple over any minute. A mix of different shapes and sizes, these houses make for a picture-perfect postcard from Amsterdam.

Just across from the Damrak Waterfront you’ll find Beurspassage, a beautiful little green, mosaic passageway with a marine theme. The chandeliers here are also pretty impressive.

The rest of this neighborhood is just large shopping chains and nondescript restaurants so just keep walking down towards Dam Square.

Dam Square

Dam Square is Amsterdam’s main square. The open square contains many of Amsterdam’s most notable buildings so it’s worth wandering around for a while. Some of the main sights to take note of or even visit in Dam Square are:

• Royal Palace of Amsterdam– a historic building and the residence of the Dutch Royal family.
• Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)– a 15th Century, northern European Gothic cathedral just over from the Palace
• National Monument – a large, concrete monument to commemorate those that died during the second World War.

Prinsengracht & Keizersgracht

From Dam Square double back north a little to Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht canals- two of the most picturesque canals in this area.

They are the perfect place for a mid-morning stroll, admiring all the lovely cafes, and gingerbread-like houses that flank the canals. Take Prinsengracht all the way down to Anne Frank’s House.

Anne Frank’s House Museum

The Diary of Anne Frank is a world classic but also one of the most tragic stories of our time. When the Nazis invaded Holland, Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl, and her family left their home and went into hiding.

They lived in a secret attic room of this office building for two years before they were discovered by the Gestapo and sent to a concentration camp. It was there were she passed away at the age of 16.

Her uncle published her memoirs and they became an international bestseller. The Anne Frank House Museum is the former house where Anne Frank and her family hid. Today you can visit the small space they lived in and see the house and learn more about the family and their story.

As the museum is tiny they don’t allow too many people in at once. Due to this, you’ll need to book tickets in advance and they sell out fast so make sure to do this before arriving in Amsterdam. You can buy tickets through the museum’s website.

If you haven’t read The Diary of Anne Frank you can get the book here or the Kindle version here.

If you’d like to know more about Anne Frank and her story, the Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Guided Tour might be of interest to you. You’ll also be able to learn more about the Jewish Quarter and Amsterdam throughout the Second World War.

Jordaan

One of the prettiest neighborhoods of Amsterdam, Jordaan is the perfect area to stroll through and take it all in slowly. Concentrated around Bloemgracht, an exceptionally pretty canal, you’ll find a crisscrossing network of small streets and bridges flanked by beautiful boutiques and cafes. The area is adorable and honestly, you could spend all afternoon here.

Don’t miss the impressive Westerkerk too, a 1600s church with an iconic spire. For the perfect photo spot with the church spire, head to Bloemstraat.

De 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets)

Featuring nine picture-perfect streets, crossing three gorgeous canals, this neighborhood is where I’d live forever if I had the chance. Incredibly trendy and chic, 9 Straatjes is where you’ll find some of the most perfect canal scenes, Instagrammable cafes, vintage stores, and pretty boutiques.

It’s the modern traveler’s dream so make sure to give yourself some time to really explore and uncover the beautiful neighborhood for yourself. Some of the highlights are:

• Matcha latte at Chun Cafe
• Vintage and Secondhand clothing stores in the area
• Boutiques from local Dutch designers
• Huis Marseille Museum of Photography
• Herengracht – a beautiful canal lined with stately homes.

Bloemenmarkt

It’s not quite a trip to the Netherlands without flowers and Bloemenmarkt is the city’s largest floating flower market. Florists have traded flowers on barges in this exact spot since 1862. Heading to the market you’ll be able to check out the beautiful flowers here in and amongst the greenhouses.

It’s worth noting that the market can vary a lot depending on the season you visit. Many of the tulips sold here are actually artificial, especially outside the tulip season when you just can’t get real tulips. You’ll find an array of other flowers here too that are ideal for brightening up your Amsterdam photos.

Cruise the Canals

Finish the day with an iconic cruise on Amsterdam’s canals. As the sun goes down on the city, why not cruise down the canals for a different viewpoint of the city? Many canal tour cruises also offer food and beverages for you to enjoy as you cruise the canals.

I prefer more intimate boat rides around the city like this smaller City Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks. You’ll be able to discover the hottest places in town from the water while cruising along, meeting new people, and enjoying the buzzy atmosphere. Make sure to book ahead here.

Day Two- Culture & Nature

Visit the Museums: Rijksmuseum

Start day two of this 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary with a visit to the Netherlands’ most famous and most important museum. If there is one museum you opt for make sure it’s this one for its rich collection of art and historical artifacts in over 80 galleries.

The museum tells the history of the Netherlands through its art and artifacts and you’ll be able to see most of the Dutch masterpieces from the most famous period of Dutch art history, the Dutch Golden Age. Two of the most famous paintings to look out for here are Vermeer’s ‘Milkmaid’ and Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’.

As the Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s most popular museum, you can imagine how long the queues can get! This is why it’s really worth buying your entrance ticket online in advance. Buy skip-the-line entrance tickets in advance to not waste any precious time from your Amsterdam itinerary.

The Van Gogh Museum

Just down the road from the Rijksmuseum, you’ll discover the Van Gogh Museum, which, as the name might suggest, has the largest collection of works by the famous Dutch artist. You’ll see Vincent Van Gogh’s most famous work as well as other, more low-key paintings and drawings.

The Van Gogh Museum also contains many works by his Impressionist contemporaries.

Again, grab your Van Gogh Museum entrance ticket online in advance here to avoid wasting time in queues.

If you prefer modern art, in the area you’ll also find the MOCO Museum and the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam that’s full of contemporary art.

P.C Hooftstraat

Not far from the museum sector is Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat, Amsterdam’s most upscale shopping boutique area. Here you’ll find the major luxury brands as well as a few other interesting upscale, local brands. You’ll also find a Leica store nearby here too- great for those interested in photography.

Vondelpark

You’re now just a stone’s throw away from Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest inner city park. Vondelpark is a lovely green space intersected by waterways and bike paths and is the perfect spot for a bike ride, a picnic, or just a rest in nature.

You’ll also find a handful of great restaurants and cafes in the park, De Vondeltuin is a great option for small plates and tapas and you can’t miss Proeflokaal ‘t Blauwe Theehuis, a microbrewery for craft beer in the park. If you prefer you can also plan and bring a picnic to really enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

The best time to visit Vondelpark for more than just a short walk, jog, or bike ride is in spring and summer.

If you’re staying nearby, Vondelpark is also a great place to go out for a morning jog.

Go on a Bike Ride

There’s no other city in the world that’s better than Amsterdam when it comes to exploring by bicycle, well, maybe also Copenhagen. Rent a bike and pedal around the pretty canals and waterways, Vondelpark, and beyond.

I’d highly suggest using your bicycle to go explore some neighborhoods a little further from the center like De Pijp for example, a wonderful and trendy neighborhood a little further from the center.

If you prefer to pedal around with purpose why not join a biking tour? This Guided Biking Tour around Central Amsterdam includes bike rental so you won’t need to worry about that. Otherwise, you can rent bikes from Black Bikes.

W Amsterdam for Sundowners

The rooftop of the W Amsterdam Hotel is one of the best spots for city views. To end the day why not come over to the rooftop bar, and grab a drink while seeing the sun set on the city?

It’s the perfect space to relax, have an excellent cocktail and reflect on the day.

Day Three- Lesser-Known Gems

Hortus Botanicus Garden

Start your day at the beautiful Hortus Botanicus Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. In the large area of gardens and greenhouses, you’ll get the chance to see over 4,000 different plant species from around the world.

Divided by different sections or environments, you’ll be able to walk around and discover many different flowers and plants.

In the butterfly greenhouse, you’ll be able to walk around amongst hundreds of free-flying butterflies. The tropics greenhouse is where you can discover the tropical rainforests of the world and both the desert and palm greenhouses also showcase the best plants of those environments.

The Hortus Botanicus cafe is also a really lovely place to grab a coffee and have a rest amongst nature after you’ve finished exploring.

Albert Cuyp Market

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam in the De Pijp area, Albert Cupt Market is an iconic street market that has been going for more than a hundred years. You’ll find a variety of different stands selling everything from local foods to flowers and plants.

There are also some great opportunities to try some typical Dutch foods like fries and stroopwafels. There are also many places to shop for clothing especially vintage.

After the market, I highly recommend exploring a bit more of the De Pijp area and perhaps having lunch here. The area is full of atmospheric streets, great cafes, and restaurants. It has a really lovely vibe.

Explore De Pijp

Amsterdam’s De Pijp neighborhood is where the city’s bohemian spirit meets global flavor. Start your day with coffee and a creative brunch at places like Uncommon or Little Collins, both local institutions in their own right.

Wander the leafy residential streets, dotted with eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés. Sarphatipark offers a quiet pocket of green for people-watching or a midday breather.

Come nightfall, the area really comes into its own—think bold natural wines at GlouGlou, stylish bites at Brasserie Lolita, or a low-key dinner at one of the many global eateries tucked into every corner. De Pijp isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a lifestyle.

Oude Kirk & The Red Light District

It’s difficult to write an Amsterdam itinerary and not mention it, the seedy Red Light District is one of the most famous districts in the city, attracting visitors far and wide. The area dates back to the 17th Century when sailors would come in looking for entertainment.

The red-light district today is full of red-lit windows where women advertise their services as well as coffee shops and bars. It was comletely not my vibe but if it’s your first time in the city you’ll most likely be curious to visit.

Don’t leave too quickly, however, as just around the corner you’ll find Oude Kerk or Old Church. It’s one of Amsterdam’s largest and oldest churches, which dates back to the 13th Century. The church has noteworthy spires and even a church tower that you can climb up for brilliant views of the city.

Wellness Spots in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the perfect urban destination to relax and take things at your own pace. There are also some pretty great spas and wellness centers to choose from when it comes to having a little rest and relaxation time in your Amsterdam itinerary.

Renessence – the best urban wellness center in the city for facials, massages, and many other treatments like cryotherapy and infrared sauna.

Skins Institute at De L’Europe Hotel – One of the best in-hotel spas, this spot is amazing for a custom facial.

Sauna Deco– a historical spa with beautiful art deco architecture. Great places for massages and use of the sauna area.

Five City Spa– Massages, facials, and pedicures in the De Pijp area.

Akasha Spa at Conservatorium Hotel– Unbeatable treatments, sauna, and swimming pool.

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Are you ready to discover Amsterdam with this 3 Days in Amsterdam itinerary? Let me know your comments and questions in the box, below, I’d love to hear from you.

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