How to Spend 24 Hours in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam needs no introduction – it is beautiful, enticing, and a great place for sightseeing. Whether you are on a day trip with limited time or have booked a weekend in Amsterdam – you sure can make the most of it with this 24-hour plan.

On your day-long trip to Amsterdam, you will have the opportunity to explore the city’s beautiful landmarks, enjoy some unique cultural experiences, learn why it is such an interesting city and indulge in the local gastronomic delights. Planning is key here, so let’s get started!

Morning Activities

9 AM – Visit the Visit Amsterdam Tourist Office

As soon as you arrive in Amsterdam, start your day by visiting the official **Visit Amsterdam Tourist Office** for all of the tips and information on things to see and do in the area. Make sure to grab a map and check out any guided tour options available during your stay. You could even pick up some souvenirs or local goodies from the gift shop.

10 AM – Check out the Amsterdam Museum

Once you’re all kitted out with your tourist office purchases, make your way to the Amsterdam Museum for an overview of the city’s history. The museum’s collections have been organized into five distinct parts, showcasing different aspects of Amsterdam including art and culture, religion, politics, and science. There are some interesting displays as well as guided tours available.

Noon Activities

12 PM – Have Lunch at the Food Hallen

Once you’ve wrapped up your tour of the museum, it’s time to take a break! Head over to Food Hallen, an indoor food market composed of various unique food stalls run by independent chefs and entrepreneurs. Here, you can find authentic local delicacies as well as international favourites like pizza, noodles, and tacos!

1 PM – Visit Anne Frank’s House

Travelling even further back in time, your next stop will be Anne Frank’s House. This revered museum commemorates Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager who lived here during World War 2 with her family who sought refuge from the Nazi regime. Although Anne’s number-one bestseller The Diary of Anne Frank was written here, the house has since become a museum showcasing a permanent exhibition about the life of Anne and her family.

Afternoon Activities

2 PM – Enjoy some Retail Therapy

Continue your day in Amsterdam by doing some shopping! There are a number of great spots throughout the city – however if you’re looking for something special head to the Nieuwmarkt area for upmarket vintage stores and DesignMERCK for designer clothes, accessories and art.

4 PM – Take a Sightseeing Cruise

For one of the best views of Amsterdam’s celebrated canals, why not take a Canal Cruise! With over 100 different routes available, there’s something to suit all tastes – from romantic “Lovers’ cruises to “the Golden Age Cruise’ exploring Amsterdam’s history as the great merchant power of 17th century Europe. During the cruise you will get a great view of all the spectacular Dutch-Gothic buildings, bridges and hidden gems.

Evening Activities

6 PM – Visit the Bloemenmarkt
Colorful tulips are one of the most recognisable symbols of Amsterdam – making a visit to the Bloemenmarkt definitely worth it! Located along Amsterdam’s Singel Canal since 1862 and one of world’s oldest flower markets, Bloemenmarkt is where you can buy flowers, bulbs, and related products such as souvenirs and postcards – but also to admire and savour Amsterdam’s famous Maritime heritage.

7 PM– Enjoy dinner at one of Amsterdam’s fine dining restaurants
Amsterdam is home to some seriously good restaurants! For dinner head to De Kookfabriek – a two-story converted industrial space in the city’s Eastern Docklands with 12 kitchens each serving up something special. Choose from everything including sushi and steak to Turkish dinners, Greek dishes and Mexican tacos.

Night Activities

9 PM– Onwards to Sample Nightlife
After dinner, continue your evening of exploration by checking out one of Amsterdam’s lively bars or clubs! The area around Leidseplein should be your go-to spot as it contains great restaurants, bustling bars and late-night clubs that remain open until 3 AM. Or why not take a scenic stroll around one of its picturesque squares or waterways until you find somewhere which takes your fancy?

For those who want an early night

Although Amsterdam is famous for its nightlife its also full of activities suitable for an early night – from checking out local pubs and tasting typical Dutch beer. You may also choose to end your day by spritzing through lively alleys full of theatrical bars and cafés around Rembrandtplein or joining one of the canal cruises specially designed for night owls to explore the city’s illuminated façades. Either way – your 24 hours in Amsterdam will be definitely be well spent.