Find inspiration for your first few days by exploring our itineraries for 24 hours and 48 hours in Amsterdam. Your third day is the perfect opportunity to seek out some lesser-known attractions and take a day trip to the windmills, the castles and the countryside that lie just outside the city centre.
Visit historic fishing villages
Travel back in time to sleepy coastal towns that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. In the Zaanse Schans, Volendam or Marken, you can admire the scenic landscapes, towering windmills and traditional houses. Explore the many museums that keep age-old traditions such as cheese making and clog making alive. All included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Relive the Golden Age
To delve into Amsterdam’s Golden Age beginnings, wander around the fascinating Scheepvaartmuseum (National Maritime Museum). Here you can even board a replica of the Dutch East India Company ship. The nearby Tropenmuseum displays a treasure trove of curiosities collected on Dutch voyages around the world. Both museums are free with the City Card.
Duration: 2 hours
Step into a fairytale
Travel back in time at Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot, (free with the City Card) an extraordinary piece of history built in 1280, complete with moat, drawbridge and elaborate gardens.
Duration: 4 hours
Order your I amsterdam City Card online
Cycle through the countryside
Hop on your bike and spend a leisurely afternoon taking in the city’s lush countryside and monumental architecture. Follow the Amstel River towards Ouderkerk aan de Amstel or bike along the River Vecht to catch a glimpse of castles and stately homes.
Duration: 3 hours
Get a head for heights
Following the global trend for rooftop bars, Amsterdam offers some truly beautiful vistas that pair perfectly with a cocktail or local craft beer. Head up to MADAM, W Lounge, Floor 17, Hopp or Canvas, preferably at sunset.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Catch a classical concert
Amsterdam’s Royal Concertgebouw is a treat for lovers of classical music. If you’re lucky enough to take in an orchestral performance in the grand main hall, you’re sure to be impressed by the excellent acoustics and atmosphere.
Duration: 1 hour
See the region’s art and architecture
Take a day trip to Almere and Lelystad to see innovative architecture and outdoor artworks, such as ‘Exposure’ by Antony Gormley. The 25-metre steel figure crouching on the bank of the Markermeer lake has become a local icon.
Duration: 4 hours
Watch the sunset from NDSM
The creative haven across the IJ is a must-see for its artsy atmosphere and ever-growing eateries. The former shipyard is now known for its artists’ cooperatives, festivals, flea markets and graffiti art. Take the free ferry from behind Central Station and stay until the sun goes down.
Duration: All night
