4-Day Weekend Guide to Fun in Amsterdam

Experience the city of canals, bicycles, and art in the charming Amsterdam.

22 April 2023

As a tourist, Amsterdam offers plenty of stunning sights, sounds and activities to fill every day. With its picturesque canals, beautiful parks and gardens, and world-class museums, this vibrant city is a remarkable destination for any traveler. Whether you're exploring the charming streets and centuries-old architecture, or relaxing in the coffee shops and tasting Dutch cuisine, you'll find your days in Amsterdam to be unforgettable.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Canal Cruise and Artistic Delights

  • Check in at Hotel Pulitzer, a charming hotel made up of 25 restored 17th and 18th-century canal houses.
  • Take a scenic canal cruise, admiring the beautiful merchants’ houses and bridges that line the UNESCO-listed waterways.
  • Visit the Van Gogh Museum, where you can marvel at the paintings and sketches of the famous Dutch artist.
  • Head to the colorful Jordaan neighborhood and wander through its charming streets filled with quirky boutiques and art galleries.
  • Taste the delicious Dutch cheese at Reypenaer, a cheese tasting room with over 100 years of cheese-making experience.
Day 2

Bikes and Pancakes

  • Rent a bike from Mike's Bike Tours and explore the city like a true Amsterdammer.
  • Visit the Anne Frank House, a thought-provoking monument and museum honoring Anne Frank and her family.
  • Head to The Pancake Bakery for lunch and sample their famous Dutch pancakes with a variety of sweet and savory toppings.
  • Explore the Rijksmuseum, one of the world's most famous art museums, housing famous works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Finish off with a visit to the Heineken Experience, a fascinating brewery tour and tasting session.
Day 3

Markets and Canals

  • Start off with a stroll through the Albert Cuyp Market, one of the city's oldest and largest markets filled with street food, clothes, and souvenirs.
  • Visit the Oude Kerk, a stunning 14th-century church located in the heart of the Red Light District.
  • Enjoy a picnic or boat ride in Vondelpark, the city's largest and most popular park.
  • Take a guided tour of the Houseboat Museum and learn about the unique lifestyle of Amsterdam's houseboat owners.
  • End the day with a sunset canal boat tour, sipping a glass of Dutch gin and enjoying the stunning views.
Day 4

Hip and Happening Amsterdam

  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of De Pijp, filled with cool cafes, bars, and vintage shops.
  • Head to the sleek and modern NEMO Science Museum, a fun-filled interactive museum with exhibits and experiments for all ages.
  • Sample the famous Dutch desserts at Patisserie Holtkamp, where you can try their famous appeltaart (apple pie) and tompouce.
  • Take in the city skyline from A'DAM Lookout, a high-rise observation deck with impressive views and a rooftop bar.
  • Finish off with a night out in the lively Leidseplein square, filled with buzzing bars and nightclubs.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Amsterdam by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport from major cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Amsterdam is relatively easy, with major highways connecting the city to cities in neighboring countries.

Train

Traveling to Amsterdam by train is convenient from major European cities, with the Amsterdam Centraal station being the main hub.

Boat

Traveling to Amsterdam by boat is possible with various river cruises and private yachts docking at the city's ports along the River IJ.

Bus

Taking a bus to Amsterdam is affordable and comfortable, with various coach companies offering services from nearby cities such as Berlin or Paris.

More travel plans

Amsterdam: 3 Days of Romantic Adventure

Experience the allure of Amsterdam with your partner as you explore the city's canals, cultural sites, and culinary delights. Take a boat tour around the city's waterways and discover its historic architecture and vibrant street life. From visiting the Van Gogh Museum to indulging in some Dutch stroopwafels, Amsterdam offers the perfect mix of romance and adventure for couples.

Amsterdam Adventure: Canals, Bikes, and Sweet Delights!

Amsterdam, the picturesque capital of the Netherlands, offers a perfect blend of the old and the new, making it ideal for a family-friendly trip. Families can explore the city's famous canals by taking a boat tour, visit the Van Gogh Museum to admire stunning artwork, and enjoy a leisurely bike ride in the charming Vondelpark. With its child-friendly attractions, cultural experiences, and beautiful scenery, Amsterdam ensures an unforgettable and enjoyable adventure for the whole family.

Weekend Wanderlust: Amsterdam in 48 Hours

As a tourist visiting Amsterdam, Netherlands, you can expect to explore a city filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic canals. You'll have the chance to visit famous attractions like the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and the Van Gogh Museum, as well as sampling the local cuisine and beer. Additionally, Amsterdam boasts a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning.

Three Days in Amsterdam: Canals, Art, and Cheese

As a visitor on a limited budget, Amsterdam has plenty of wallet-friendly options to offer. With a bit of research, one can find affordable accommodation in hostels, as well as cheap food and drink at local markets and street vendors. The city's many attractions, such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House, offer discounted admission prices for students and young adults.