7 days in Amsterdam, Netherlands: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Amsterdam, the charming Dutch capital, is a city for all! It boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and an unrivaled atmosphere that makes it a top destination. From cruising along its picturesque canals, taking a break in its lovely parks, and admiring its extensive collection of world-class museums, there are tons of activities for you to explore. Here, you’ll learn all about the city’s hidden gems and unique experiences, along with some crucial tips and tricks for making your Amsterdam visit unforgettable.
Things to consider before arriving in Amsterdam:
The city is bicycle-friendly, so get ready to pedal!
Amsterdam is LGBTQ+-friendly, so expect an inclusive environment for all.
Accommodation prices can be steep, so plan your budget ahead of time.
Culture, art, and history enthusiasts will fall in love with this city, as well as nature lovers and explorers.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot!
2. A rain jacket or umbrella for the unpredictable Dutch weather.
3. An RFID-blocking wallet to protect against potential pickpockets in busy areas.
Best time of the year to visit
April to May and September to October are the best times to visit Amsterdam. During these months, you can enjoy relatively mild weather, fewer tourists, and the vibrant tulip season in the spring.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), the major international airport in the Netherlands. It’s well-connected to the city center via trains, buses, and taxis.
2. By train: Amsterdam Central Station (Amsterdam Centraal) is the city’s main railway hub. International and domestic trains regularly arrive here, making it easy to reach Amsterdam from neighboring countries or other Dutch cities.
3. By car: If you’re driving to Amsterdam, be prepared for limited and expensive parking in the city center. It’s usually better to park at a Park and Ride location and use public transportation to explore the city.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 1: Arrival and Canal Tour
Amsterdam is famous for its canals, so start your trip with a canal tour. Enjoy the views of the charming houses, the bridges and the boats passing by. After the tour, go to the Vondelpark, a beautiful park in the center of the city. For dinner, try some local cuisine such as bitterballen or stroopwafels.
Day 2: Museums and Jordaan
Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, and the Van Gogh Museum, which displays the works of the great artist. After the museums, wander around the Jordaan neighborhood, where you will find cozy cafes, shops, and picturesque canals.
Day 3: Day trip to Haarlem
Take a short train ride to Haarlem, a charming town with a beautiful medieval center. Visit the Grote Markt, the Frans Hals Museum and the St. Bavo Church. Try some delicious local specialties such as Dutch herring or appeltaart (apple pie).
Day 4: Art and Red Light District
Start the day at the Stedelijk Museum, where you will find modern and contemporary art. In the evening, stroll around the Red Light District to experience Amsterdam’s famous nightlife. Remember to be respectful and keep in mind that taking photos is not allowed.
Day 5: Day trip to Zaanse Schans
Take a short bus ride to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village with windmills, traditional houses and crafts workshops. Try some Dutch cheese and visit the clog-making demonstration.
Day 6: Anne Frank House and Heineken Experience
Visit the Anne Frank House, where the young girl wrote her diary during World War II. It is a very touching and powerful experience. Afterwards, take a tour of the Heineken Experience, where you will learn about the history of the famous beer and enjoy some tastings.
Day 7: Market and Bicycle Tour
Finish your trip with a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market, where you can try Dutch specialties such as stroopwafels, poffertjes (mini pancakes), and Dutch cheese. In the afternoon, rent a bicycle and explore the city’s bike-friendly streets and parks.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Amsterdam
After Amsterdam, consider visiting Utrecht, a beautiful medieval city with canals, museums and a lively student atmosphere. You can easily reach it by train in less than 30 minutes. Another option is to go to Rotterdam, a modern and vibrant city with amazing architecture, art, and food. You can take a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal station and arrive in less than an hour.
