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

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.

Amsterdam in 3 Days: Canal Rides & Culture

As a tourist in Amsterdam, one can embark on a myriad of adventures such as a boat ride along the city's canals, visit historical landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and the Royal Palace, and indulge in the city's vibrant cultural scene with visits to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Additionally, one can enjoy the city's thriving food and nightlife scenes, with local cuisine ranging from delicious Dutch pancakes to various international delicacies.

Live It Up in Amsterdam: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience the allure of Amsterdam, Netherlands with your significant other. Marvel at the serene canals and streets adorned with intricate architecture. Admire the flower-decked landscapes of Keukenhof gardens, indulge in Dutch cuisine, and visit the Rijksmuseum for a unique cultural experience.

5 Days in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Travel Guide

As a tourist in Amsterdam, you can explore the picturesque city's rich culture and history by visiting many museums, art galleries, and Dutch-style canal houses. You can also take a stroll around the iconic Red Light District, visit the lively Jordaan neighborhood, and indulge in a range of activities like cycling, cruising, and visiting coffee shops. Moreover, you can taste some Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels, bitterballen, and fresh herring, and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.