Things To Do In Amsterdam For A Day

Beautiful, historic Amsterdam is a city like no other. With canals, cobblestone streets, and colorful Dutch architecture, it’s a city that beckons to be explored. While there’s plenty to keep you occupied for days, if you’ve only got one day in the city, here are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam to make the most of your time.

Introduction to Amsterdam

Founded in the 12th century, Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital and its largest city. It’s located in the western part of the country and is crossed by 165 canals, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.” With a population of roughly 872,000 people, Amsterdam has been a bustling port city since it was founded as a fishing village.

Today, Amsterdam is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination for tourists from around the world. Known for its tolerant culture and progressive attitude, Amsterdam is home to a great many museums and attractions, as well as world-renowned nightlife and exciting activities.

Explore the Canals

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without taking a trip through the city’s picturesque canals. The most famous canal is the Herengracht, or “Gentlemen’s Canal,” which was created in the 17th century by wealthy merchants. The Herengracht is lined with beautiful houses and is a great place to take a boat tour.

There are several companies that offer boat tours of Amsterdam’s canals, giving visitors an up-close look at some of the most beautiful architecture in the city. Most tours depart from Centraal Station and last between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

Visit the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam, and a must-see if you’re visiting for the first time. Located in the Jordaan district of Amsterdam, the house was where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. It has since been turned into a museum that commemorates her life and her bravery.

The Anne Frank House is open from 9am to 7pm daily, with extended hours for special exhibitions. Tickets should be booked in advance as they often sell out quickly.

Ride a Bike

Biking is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam, and there are many bike rental companies throughout the city. Most offer day rentals, so you can make the most of your time in Amsterdam and explore the city at your own pace.

Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe, so you can be sure to find plenty of quiet streets and scenic routes to ride through. Be sure to wear a helmet, as cycling can be hazardous in a crowded city like Amsterdam.

Enjoy a Beer in a Brown Cafe

No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a visit to a classic “brown cafe.” These traditional Dutch pubs are known for their cozy interiors and relaxed atmosphere. Most brown cafes serve a variety of beer, wine and spirits, as well as traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and bitterballen (fried meatballs).

A visit to a brown cafe is the perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring Amsterdam and get a taste of local culture.

Visit Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest park and one of its most beloved spots for locals and tourists alike. The park was created in 1865 as an English-style public garden and has since become an important cultural center for the city.

Vondelpark is home to numerous attractions, including an open-air theater, a sculpture garden, and several playgrounds. It’s also a great place to go for a walk or bike ride and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Take a Food Tour

Amsterdam is known for its excellent cuisine, ranging from traditional Dutch dishes to international favorites. To get a taste of all that Amsterdam has to offer, consider taking a food tour. These tours are great for foodies who want to try all the best restaurants in one day!

Most food tours last about 3 hours and take you through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, including the Jordaan district and De Pijp. You’ll sample food from local restaurants as well as get a chance to meet some of Amsterdam’s famous chefs.

Explore the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions. Located in Museum Square, it houses the country’s national art collection and boasts over 8 million objects spanning centuries of Dutch history.

The museum building itself is an attraction in itself, having recently undergone an extensive renovation that retained much of its original 19th century architecture. Inside, you’ll find works by some of Holland’s most famous artists, including Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer.

Shop at Bloemenmarkt

Amsterdam is home to Europe’s only floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt. Located on the Singel canal, this floating market is filled with colorful blooms from around the world. Whether you’re looking for tulips or fragrant roses, you’ll find it here!

In addition to flowers, Bloemenmarkt also sells potted plants, garden decorations, and souvenirs. It’s open every day from 9am to 5:30pm and makes for an interesting detour while exploring Amsterdam.

Take a Night Tour

Amsterdam comes alive at night! To get an insider’s look at the city after dark, consider taking a night tour. These tours typically include stops at some of Amsterdam’s best bars and clubs, as well as visits to some of its more unique attractions.

Most night tours last between 2-3 hours and include transportation around Amsterdam in luxury buses or limousines. To make your night even more special, consider booking a private tour so you can customize your itinerary and explore Amsterdam at your own pace.

Popular Tours in Amsterdam

Now that you know some of the best things to do in Amsterdam for a day, here are two popular tours that will make your visit even more memorable:

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Amsterdam’s famous canals with an expert guide! This 90-minute tour will take you past some of the city’s most iconic sights while providing interesting commentary about its history and culture. You’ll also have plenty of time to take photos and admire views of the city’s beautiful architecture from your boat on the water! Book this cruise here.

Amsterdam Red Light District Tour

Get an inside look at one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods with this 2-hour tour! Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the district’s history and culture while exploring its narrow streets and hidden corners. You’ll also get to visit some of its more well-known bars and clubs – an experience you won’t soon forget! Book this tour here.