(updated July 2024)
Amsterdam, the vibrant capital city of the Netherlands, captivates travelers with its charming canals, colorful flowers and historic architecture. Known for its liberal attitude towards social issues and world-class museums, Amsterdam offers an endless array of experiences for visitors to indulge in. Whether you’re a history enthusiast exploring landmarks like Anne Frank House or a food lover sampling delicious Dutch cuisine this bustling city has something for everyone. Here is everything you need to know for your perfect two days in Amsterdam.
It’s no wonder Amsterdam is such a beloved destination. I recently visited this idyllic city and felt its charm immediately. In this article, you can explore an unforgettable itinerary spending two days in Amsterdam, highlighting the must-see attractions and hidden gems that make this European gem truly enchanting.
DISCLOSURE: PLEASE NOTE THAT SOME LINKS BELOW CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. I EARN A MINIMAL COMMISSION THAT SUPPORTS MY SMALL BUSINESS AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU.
Map of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a very walkable city and many of the main sites are in close proximity to one another. Public transportation is readily available, but the most popular mode is the bicycle. Choose to stay in the city center for easy access to the majority of the destinations described below. Binnenstad, The Canal Ring, De Pijp, and Jordaan District are all popular areas to consider. Read ahead to learn where we stayed.
Seeking Stamps Tip: Consider purchasing an Amsterdam City Card. It offers access to 70 museums and attractions, public transportation, canal cruises and more!
Two Days in Amsterdam- Day 1 Itinerary
Begin With A Food Tour
First, start your 2 day Amsterdam itinerary with a food tour. Food tours provide a guided walking tour of the city while you experience all the delightful culinary influences in the area. Food in Amsterdam is diverse and intriguing. You will have an opportunity to try Surinamese, Indonesian and local Dutch favorites. The best part is that you can discover places locals frequent and avoid the tourist traps.
I highly recommend an Amsterdam food tour with Hungry Birds. Their guides provide informative historical information about the food and city. Their De Pijp tour is 4.5-5.5 hours long and includes all the food and drinks on the tour for 95 Euros.
Want to Learn About Other European Destinations with Food Tours? Check Out This Granada, Spain Travel Guide!
Try Snacks From a Febo
Subsequently, the tour will introduce you to FEBO snack vending machines. Pop in your coins and get a hot, crunchy, little snack. These fast food items typically contain meat and vegetables, but there are vegetarian options as well. We tried several varieties and they all tasted shockingly fresh and delicious. If you see one, give it a try!
Taste Dutch Specialties
Certainly, no visit to Amsterdam is complete without trying Rudi’s original Stroopwafels. Rudi’s was founded in 1978 and call themselves “the original Stroopwafel”. This sticky-sweet Dutch speciality is a cookie sandwich made of waffle cones with soft caramel inside. They are to die for, so don’t miss out.
Another famous Dutch delicacy is pickled herring. This strong fish is served with a side of pickles and onions. I reluctantly tried it, but perhaps it is an acquired taste. The Heineken definitely helped wash it down. Ugh!
Last but not least, make sure to sample ALL the fabulous Dutch cheese. The Netherlands are famous for robust, tangy Gouda and Edam cheese made from cow’s milk. The quality and variety of cheeses found in Amsterdam is remarkable.
Stroll Through Albert Cuyp Market
Next, check out Albert Cuyp Market in central De Pijp. This famous open-air flea market originated in 1905. It’s filled with flower vendors, fresh fruit and food stalls. This crowded street is fun to wander through for souvenirs, lively restaurants and bars.
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Visit Dam Square & The Amsterdam Royal Palace
As the day winds down, make sure to visit Dam Square located close to Amsterdam Central Station. This is the historical center of Amsterdam and a local point of interest in the city. In the center of the square, stands the 72 foot high National Monument which is a memorial to World War II.
The square is worth a stroll, but you won’t need a significant amount of time here unless you plan to shop or dine nearby. Intermittently carnivals, live music, vendors and even a large Christmas tree (seasonally) can be found in the square.
The prestigious Amsterdam Royal Palace is also located on the western side of the square. A highlight of the 17th century palace is its gorgeous art and furniture collections.
Royal Palace Hours: 10:00 am- 4:00 pm
Royal Palace Tickets: 12.50 Euros for adults
Red Light District
Unquestionably, no vacation in Amsterdam is complete without mentioning the infamous Red Light District. In case you are not familiar with it, the Red Light District is an area of sex shops and legal prostitution. Women are scantily dressed, and they solicit the passing crowd from large windows. Patrons of their “services” line up for their turn.
I’m not going to lie, the experience of walking down the street there made me feel a bit nauseous and incredibly sad for the women working there. Despite my distaste of this area, the liberalism of the Dutch is refreshing in many regards.
Seeking Stamps Tip: It goes without saying, but skip this area if you are traveling with children.
Where to Eat in Amsterdam
After an exhausting day of sightseeing, dine at van Kerkwijk Restaurant which is a short walk from the Red Light District. This cozy little restaurant has a relaxed, urban vibe. They serve Amsterdam fare including steak, chicken, burgers and no-frills food. Try their warm pear pie, it is heavenly.
Another favorite restaurant in Amsterdam for brunch is PIQNIQ. This friendly restaurant offers a variety of fresh soups, sandwiches, scrumptious baked goods and vegan options.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Perched along the Singel Canal, is the lovely Hotel Estherea. It is an adorable Amsterdam boutique hotel in a converted 17th century building. The welcoming lobby is adorned with intricate crystal chandeliers, velvet fabrics and dark woods. The hotel is situated on the riverfront which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Each of the 92 rooms are uniquely decorated in warm, bold prints. Service here is charming and friendly. Located in the city center, it is a perfect hub to see all the nearby sights during your two days in Amsterdam.
Two Days In Amsterdam- Day 2 Itinerary
Visit The Anne Frank House
Without a doubt, you must visit the Anne Frank House Museum while touring Amsterdam. Anne Frank was a Jewish girl who kept a diary that detailed living through the atrocities of WWII. You can view the secret annex where the family hid for two years during the Nazi occupation. When you see the annex, it will reinforce the agony her family endured before dying in Nazi concentration camps.
Anne Frank Museum Hours: 9:00 am- 10:00 pm
Anne Frank Museum Tickets: 14 euros for adults
Seeking Stamps Tip: Tickets are released for the entire month on the first Tuesday and often sell out in advance. Be sure to purchase them early. You have the option to visit with or without the introduction, however I found the introduction to be helpful and full of added details.
If you are interested in Jewish history check out this travel guide for Berlin, Germany!
Take a Cruise Through Amsterdam’s Canals
Above all, make sure to do a canal cruise during your two days in Amsterdam. It’s extremely peaceful to float your way through the various canals taking in views of historic Dutch architecture.
I highly recommend Leemstar Amsterdam Canal Cruises. They offer 60-120 minute cruises and you have the option for shared or private tours. Day and evening canal cruises are offered. You even have the option to add light snacks and champagne with your canal cruise… yes, please!
Seeking Stamps Tip: Book an open top boat for the best views and photos (unless its rainy season). Even in winter, Leemstar offers covered boats and blankets to keep you warm and dry.
Note the Difference Between Coffee Shop and Cafes
In between sightseeing, visit one of the numerous coffee shops or cafes. Differing from the U.S., coffee shops in Amsterdam legally sell marijuana, not coffee. Inside, patrons are allowed to purchase and smoke marijuana. Even if you don’t plan to consume any marijuana, it’s worth a visit to experience the culture here. If you are truly looking for coffee to drink, you want to find a koffiehuis (or cafe).
Seeking Stamps Tip: When in doubt, note whether the shop has anything associated with Bob Marley, Rastafarian music, or green leaves displayed. If so, you know they are not selling coffee.
Check Out Amsterdam Museums
Next go to the Museumplein, which is the museum square. Here you will find the Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, MOCO Museum and the Rijksmuseum. If you are visiting for just two days in Amsterdam, you will have to limit which ones you have time for.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is one of the best museums in Amsterdam. Interestingly, the complicated story of the artist’s life and death are explained in detail. His stunning masterpieces are brilliantly displayed. You can easily spend hours marvelling at all the art.
Van Gogh Museum Hours: 9:00 am- 6:00 pm
Van Gogh Museum Tickets: 19 Euros for adults. Free for children under age 18. Tickets must be purchased online. (a guided tours is additional)
Seeking Stamps Tip: Tickets for the Van Gogh Museum often sell out, so purchase them early. They MUST be purchased online.
Rijksmuseum
Additionally, visit The Rijksmuseum which is the national museum of Amsterdam. The Rijksmuseum is filled with Dutch history and houses collections of Vermeer, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Don’t miss Rembrandt’s famous painting, “The Night Watch”.
Rijksmuseum Hours: 9:00-5:00 pm daily
Rijksmuseum Tickets: 22.50 Euros for adults. Free under age 18.
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Additional Attractions in Amsterdam
As you can see, tourists can spend weeks visiting Amsterdam and stay occupied. If you have additional time, stroll through Vondelpark, check out the A’dam Lookout, take a day trip to see windmills in the charming village of Zaanse Schans. Or, visit a floating flower market or go beer tasting at the Heineken Experience.
Two Days In Amsterdam: Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Amsterdam is a fabulous city that offers delicious food, interesting museums and fascinating history. Spending two days in Amsterdam is sure to leave you with lasting memories. From the picturesque canals and stunning architecture to the vibrant cultural scene and welcoming locals, this city has something for everyone. I hope this guide helps you plan a memorable two day Amsterdam itinerary.
