Amsterdam is one of those cities that immediately feels welcoming. With its elegant canals, narrow houses leaning slightly over the water and endless bicycles gliding past, the city has a relaxed charm that makes exploring a pleasure. It is a place where history, art and everyday life blend beautifully together.
Although Amsterdam is a capital city, it does not feel overwhelming. Many of the main attractions are close to each other, which makes it perfect for a weekend visit. You can spend your days wandering along canals, discovering world famous museums, browsing lively markets and stopping regularly in cosy cafés.
For travellers who love food as much as exploring, Amsterdam also offers many simple pleasures. From tasting warm stroopwafels at a street market to enjoying a slice of Dutch apple pie in a traditional café, the city offers delicious moments throughout the day.
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Wander Along the Canals
One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam is simply by walking along its beautiful canals. The historic canal belt, a UNESCO World Heritage site, forms the heart of the city and offers endless picturesque views.
Crossing the small bridges, you will often see boats slowly passing underneath and cyclists balancing effortlessly along narrow streets, just be careful because they are everywhere.
One of my favourite neighbourhoods to explore is the Jordaan, filled with small boutiques, art galleries and inviting cafés. Nearby, the area known as the Nine Streets is perfect for wandering, with lovely independent shops and places to stop for lunch or coffee.
Wander along the canals suggested itinerary :
Begin is Prinsengracht, wander into the nearby neighbourhood known as De Negen Straatjes, or the Nine Streets.
Next, Jordaan district. Streets such as Egelantiersgracht and Bloemgracht are especially picturesque, with quiet canals, houseboats and flower filled bridges.
Take a coffee break at Kafenion, or Screaming Beans located in the Nine Streets area.
If you are looking for something sweet, the charming Winkel 43 in the Jordaan is famous for serving one of the best Dutch apple pies in the city.
Visit Amsterdam’s Museums
Amsterdam is home to some of the most impressive museums in Europe, making it a wonderful destination for art lovers. Many of the city’s major museums are located around the large green square of Museumplein, an area that is lively and pleasant to walk around.
The magnificent Rijksmuseum is perhaps the most famous. The museum houses masterpieces of Dutch painting, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Just nearby, the Van Gogh Museum offers an extraordinary insight into the life and work of Vincent van Gogh and the Stedelijk Museum, the museum for modern and contemporary art and design.
Another place that leaves a deep impression is the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Second World War.
Explore Amsterdam’s Markets
Markets are an important part of Amsterdam’s daily life and they offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the city’s lively atmosphere. One of the most popular is the Albert Cuyp Market, located in the vibrant De Pijp neighbourhood.
Location: Albert Cuypstraat, Amsterdam (between Ferdinand Bolstraat and Van Woustraat).
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
Another interesting stop is the famous Bloemenmarkt, which sits directly on the canal. The floating stalls are filled with flowers, bulbs, garden plants and plenty of tulips in Spring.
Location: Singel 630, 600 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Sunday 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM
What to Eat in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers many small culinary discoveries that make exploring the city even more enjoyable. One of the most famous treats is the stroopwafel, a delicious Dutch biscuit made of two thin waffles filled with warm caramel syrup.
Dutch cheese is another highlight that should not be missed. Cheese shops throughout the city display impressive wheels of Gouda and other varieties, many aged for months or even years.
For something more traditional, visitors can also try Dutch herring served with onions and pickles. It is a classic street food that locals enjoy, especially during the summer months.
Another classic Dutch snack to try is bitterballen, small crispy balls filled with a rich meat ragout. They are usually served hot with mustard and are traditionally enjoyed with a cold beer in a café or bar.
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Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Choosing the right neighbourhood can make your stay in Amsterdam even more enjoyable. Many visitors choose to stay near the historic canal belt, where you are within walking distance of many of the city’s main attractions. Staying in a traditional canal house hotel can be a wonderful experience, offering beautiful views over the water.
The Jordaan district is another excellent choice. With its charming streets, small shops and welcoming cafés, it has a village like atmosphere while still being very close to the centre of the city.
For travellers interested in museums, the area around Museumplein is also very convenient. This neighbourhood is quieter in the evening and offers easy access to several of the city’s most important cultural attractions.
Wherever you stay, Amsterdam’s compact size makes it easy to explore most of the city on foot or by bicycle.
So here are my 3 favourite hotels in Amsterdam:
The Highland House : Located in the historic centre, just a short walk from Dam Square, this charming boutique hotel is perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Average price, around €180 to €250 per night.
Nieuwe Nieuwstraat 17, 1012 NG Amsterdam
citizenM Amstel Amsterdam : Situated along the Amstel River near the city centre, this modern and stylish hotel offers comfort and a slightly quieter atmosphere.
Average price, around €140 to €220 per night.
Sarphatistraat 47, 1018 EW Amsterdam
Hotel V Fizeaustraat : Located in Amsterdam East, this trendy and laid back hotel offers a more local feel while still being well connected to the centre. This one is where we stay the most as it has a parking, which is quite rare in Amsterdam. Average price, around €100 to €200 per night.
Fizeaustraat 2, 1097 SC Amsterdam
2 Days in Amsterdam: A Simple Weekend Itinerary
This simple itinerary brings together the main highlights of for a weekend in Amsterdam while leaving time to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.
Day 1, Canals, Museums and the Jordaan
- Start your morning walking along Prinsengracht and the canal belt
- Explore the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) for boutiques and cafés
- Visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum
- Have lunch in the Jordaan neighbourhood
- Wander along Bloemgracht and Egelantiersgracht
- Stop for coffee or apple pie at Winkel 43
- Dinner at a cosy canal-side restaurant
- Evening walk along the illuminated canals
Day 2, Markets and Local Flavours
- Visit the Albert Cuyp Market in the morning
- Try a fresh stroopwafel at the market
- Walk along the Amstel or explore nearby streets
- Visit the Anne Frank House
- Stop at a cheese shop for a tasting
- Enjoy coffee in a local café
- Optional canal cruise for a different view of the city
