Hey there fellow travelers and welcome to my post where we will cover 10 ways to spend one day in Amsterdam. Now, we all know the joys that travel can bring, from visiting far off places, experiencing different cultures and of course, all the new foods. But there is also a downside, – that dreaded day to ‘waste’ in a city whilst waiting for a midnight flight.
So if you are like me (as I live in Australia, all outgoing flights seems to leave late at night), there has been many a day where you need to find something to do that is enjoyable, but doesn’t take too much time – or cost too much money. So if you have a long layover or a day to kill in Amsterdam, here are 10 things you can do to pass the time in an enjoyable way.
Let’s check them out…
- Check out the Historical Sites
- Take a Canal Tour
- Try all the Food
- Do some Shopping
- Relax in the Parks and Gardens
- Experience Dutch Culture
- Smell the Flowers at Bloemenmarkt
- Tour the Heineken Brewery
- Partake in the Nightlife
- Tour the Red Light District
Ways to Spend One Day In Amsterdam
Amsterdam, often referred to as the “Venice of the North”, beckons travelers with its labyrinthine canals, historic gabled house, world-renowned museums and vibrant tulip markets. Beyond its picturesque façade, the city boasts a rich tapestry of culture, from the haunting Anne Frank House to the lively buzz of the Leidseplein, ensuring that every visitor leaves with memories as timeless as the city’s cobbled streets.
And to help you out here are 10 unforgettable ways to spend one day in Amsterdam.
Check out these: The Top 10 Safest Cities for Tourists
Book your trip to Amsterdam here!
1. Check out the Historical Sites
If you’re interested in history, Amsterdam has plenty of fascinating sites to visit. Here are three must-see historical sites to add to your itinerary:
Anne Frank House
A visit to the Anne Frank House is a sobering and thought-provoking experience as the museum is located in the house where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. You’ll see the rooms where they lived, including the famous attic where Anne wrote her diary.
The museum also includes exhibits on the Holocaust and the persecution of Jews during the war.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit for art lovers and houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings in the world. You’ll see some of his most famous works, including “Sunflowers” and “The Potato Eaters.”
The museum also includes works by other artists who influenced van Gogh as well as exhibits on his life and career.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the Netherlands including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and other Dutch masters. Highlights include Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.” The museum also has exhibits on Dutch history and culture, including a collection of Delftware and a reconstructed 18th-century dollhouse.
No matter which historical sites you choose to visit, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore and take in all the fascinating details.
2. Take a Canal Tour
A canal tour is a must-do activity in Amsterdam and a great way to see the city’s beauty from a different perspective. You can choose from various canal tours, including day and night tours, dinner cruises and themed tours. Here are some options that you can consider:
- Blue Boat Company: This tour company offers a 75-minute canal tour that passes by the top sights in Amsterdam. They also have a 90-minute evening canal tour that is available from March to October. If you’re traveling with kids, they have a children’s pirate-themed cruise that your little ones will surely enjoy as well.
- Xtracold Icebar Canal Cruise: This tour is perfect for those who want to experience something unique. It combines a canal cruise tour with an entrance ticket to the renowned Xtracold Icebar. You’ll get to enjoy a drink in a glass made of ice while cruising along the canals.
- Pancake Cruise: If you’re a foodie, you can take a 75-minute canal tour that includes unlimited pancakes and drinks. You can choose from sweet or savory pancakes and they also have vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Canal Cruise: This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the city at their own pace. The hop-on-hop-off canal cruise allows you to get on and off the boat as many times as you want. You can use it to visit the city’s top attractions or to explore the hidden gems.
No matter which canal tour you choose, you’ll get to see Amsterdam’s beauty in a unique way. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
3. Try all the Food
When it comes to food and drink, Amsterdam has a lot to offer. Here are some must-try options to make the most of Amsterdam in a day.
Try Dutch Pancakes
One of the most popular dishes in Amsterdam is Dutch pancakes. These pancakes are thinner than American pancakes and are usually served with sweet toppings such as syrup, fruit or chocolate. You can find Dutch pancake houses all over the city, but one of the best is The Pancake Bakery. This cozy restaurant has been serving up delicious pancakes since 1973 and offers a wide variety of toppings to choose from.
Visit a Cheese Shop
The Netherlands is famous for its cheese so it’s no surprise that Amsterdam has some of the best cheese shops in the world. One of the most popular is Kaaskamer, located in the Jordaan neighborhood where you can find a wide variety of Dutch cheeses including Gouda, Edam and Maasdam.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they offer free samples so you can try before you buy.
Local Breweries
Amsterdam is home to several local breweries each with their own unique flavors and styles. One of the best is Brouwerij’t IJ, located in a windmill near the city center. Here you can try their signature IPA or one of their seasonal brews, all made with local ingredients.
The brewery also offers tours so you can learn more about the brewing process and the history of beer in Amsterdam.
4. Do some Shopping
If you’re looking to do some shopping during your one day in Amsterdam, you’re in luck. The city has a range of shopping options from high-end boutiques to flea markets. Some of the best options include:
De Negen Straatjes
De Negen Straatjes, or “The Nine Streets,” is a charming shopping district in the heart of Amsterdam’s canal district. The area is known for its trendy boutiques, vintage shops and independent galleries where you’ll find everything from designer clothing to handmade jewelry to unique home decor.
Some of the standout shops in De Negen Straatjes include:
- The Darling – a vintage shop with a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories
- Hutspot – a concept store with a mix of fashion, art and design
- Bij Ons Vintage – a vintage shop with a focus on high-quality designer pieces
Albert Cuyp Market
For a more traditional shopping experience, head to the Albert Cuyp Market. This bustling market has been a fixture in Amsterdam since 1905 and is the largest outdoor market in the Netherlands. Here you’ll find everything from fresh produce to clothing to souvenirs.
Some of the highlights of the Albert Cuyp Market include:
- Stroopwafels by Markus – a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, this stand sells freshly made stroopwafels (a Dutch treat made of two thin waffles with caramel syrup in the middle)
- Puccini Bomboni – a chocolate shop with a wide selection of handmade chocolates
- Hollandse Nieuwe Haring – if you’re feeling adventurous, try some raw herring (a traditional Dutch snack) at this stand
5. Relax in the Parks and Gardens
If you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore. Here are two of the best:
Vondelpark
Vondelpark is the largest park in Amsterdam and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With over 47 hectares of green space, there’s plenty to see and do here. You can take a stroll around the park’s many walking paths, have a picnic on the grass or rent a bike and explore the park’s many trails.
There are also several cafes and restaurants within the park as well as a playground for children.
Keukenhof
If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring, a visit to Keukenhof is a must. This world-famous flower park is located just outside of Amsterdam and is home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils and other flowers. The park is only open from late March to mid-May so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
In addition to the stunning flower displays, there are also several restaurants, shops, and events throughout the park as well.
Book your trip to Amsterdam here!
6. Experience Dutch Culture
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in Amsterdam’s rich cultural history, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few cultural experiences you won’t want to miss:
Visit a Windmill
Amsterdam is famous for its windmills, which played a crucial role in the city’s development. There are several windmills within the city limits that you can visit including the De Gooyer Windmill, which is the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands.
You can take a guided tour of the windmill and learn about its history and how it works. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see it in action!
Explore Jordaan
Jordaan is one of Amsterdam’s most charming neighborhoods and it’s full of cultural experiences. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the beautiful architecture or pop into one of the many art galleries and studios.
7. Smell the Flowers at Bloemenmarkt
Nestled along the southern side of the Singel canal, the Bloemenmarkt stands as the world’s only floating flower market, a colorful testament to the Netherlands’ centuries-old love affair with floriculture. Established in 1862, this unique market is an aromatic spectacle of vibrant tulips, narcissus and other blooms interspersed with a delightful variety of gardening accessories, Dutch souvenirs and bulbs ready for export.
For tourists, the Bloemenmarkt offers a vivid sensory experience, with row upon row of fresh flowers painting a vibrant picture against the backdrop of historic Amsterdam houses. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect tulip bulb to take home, eager to capture picturesque snapshots or simply looking to immerse yourself in the heady scent and sights of myriad blossoms, the Bloemenmarkt promises a slice of Dutch horticultural tradition in the heart of Amsterdam.
8. Tour the Heineken Brewery
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the historic Heineken brewery has transformed from its original role as the primary production facility for the famed beer brand into a dynamic, interactive museum known as the Heineken Experience. The original brewery, which operated from 1867 to 1988, stands as a testament to the brand’s rich heritage and its evolution into one of the world’s most recognized beer producers.
For visitors, the Heineken Experience offers far more than just a peek into beer-making. Engaging multimedia exhibits guide guests through the journey of beer production, from the selection of natural ingredients to the art of brewing. Along the way, visitors can indulge in interactive games, witness the powerful draft horses that once delivered Heineken barrels, and, of course, savor a perfectly poured pint in the tasting room.
9. Partake in the Nightlife
Amsterdam is known for its vibrant nightlife and you can experience it even if you only have one day in the city. Here are two areas to check out:
Leidseplein
Leidseplein is one of the most popular nightlife areas in Amsterdam. It’s a bustling square with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here are a few places to check out:
- Paradiso: This former church turned music venue is a must-visit for music lovers. It’s hosted big names like Adele, Nirvana and Prince.
- Melkweg: Another music venue, Melkweg has a diverse lineup of acts and also hosts film screenings and other events.
- Café Alto: This jazz bar has been around for over 25 years and is a cozy spot to grab a drink and listen to live music.
Rembrandtplein
Rembrandtplein is another popular nightlife area located in the heart of the city. Here are a few places to check out:
- Escape: This club has multiple floors and plays a mix of electronic and pop music.
- Café Schiller: This grand café has been around since 1913 and is a great spot for a drink or a bite to eat.
- Mulligans Irish Music Bar: If you’re in the mood for some Irish music and a pint of Guinness, this is the spot for you.
10. Tour the Red Light District
This last option may not be for everyone but if it one thing Amsterdam is famous for is it’s red light district. For tourists however, this offers more than its salacious reputation suggests. While the provocative displays are a significant draw, many visitors come to experience the bustling nightlife with its array of bars, restaurants and theaters. Furthermore, initiatives like the Prostitution Information Center provide insight into the lives and rights of the workers, demystifying and destigmatizing their profession.
Situated in the oldest part of the city, De Wallen, the area is also a vibrant area steeped in history and unique architecture. The narrow, cobbled streets are lined with 17th-century buildings, which house a mix of boutiques, eateries and the iconic red-framed windows. The district is also home to the Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest church, which stands as a testament to the area’s deep historical roots.
Getting Around Amsterdam
When it comes to getting around Amsterdam, there are two main options: biking and public transport. Both are efficient and affordable ways to navigate the city, and each has its advantages. Let’s break this down:
Biking
Biking is one of the most popular ways to get around Amsterdam. The city is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure and there are bike rental shops all over the city. Renting a bike is affordable and it allows you to explore the city at your own pace. Plus, it’s a great way to see the city like a local.
If you’re planning to bike around Amsterdam, be sure to follow the rules of the road. Biking in Amsterdam can be hectic, especially during rush hour, so it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Also, be sure to lock up your bike when you’re not using it to prevent theft.
Public Transport
Amsterdam’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use as the city has an extensive network of trams, buses and metros that can take you anywhere you need to go. The public transport system is also affordable and you can purchase tickets at ticket machines located at most stops.
If you’re planning to use public transport, consider purchasing a day pass as this will give you unlimited access to all trams, buses and metros for the entire day.
Conclusion
There you have it; 10 things to do in Amsterdam in one day. And as usual, let me know of your experiences here or there is anywhere you think I should be adding above.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
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