The best way to spend 2 days in Amsterdam
Amsterdam may be a compact city known for its canal-lined streets, but it’s packed with must-see sights and character. The city is easy to explore on foot, albeit on cobbles, but for a unique experience hop on a tram or boat. Emmie Harrison-West takes you through how to cram in the best of Amsterdam in just two days...
Day 1
Morning
Whether arriving in the city centre from the airport or by train, Centraal Station is the perfect gateway to this vibrant city. Start the morning at the Anne Frank House bright and early to avoid the crowds – a short walk from Centraal. For breakfast, visit The Pancake Bakery, a two-storey converted warehouse serving huge sweet or savoury pancakes.
Then, stroll along the canal past Westerkerk with its iconic 85m tall spire. Next, take a peek at the tranquil Begijnhof, where Het Houten Huis is one of Amsterdam’s oldest houses, dating from 1420.
Afternoon
Pause for lunch on the Spui at Café Luxembourg, a classic brasserie. Order their famous prawn croquettes and bitterballen (fried meatballs) to dine al fresco on the cobbles.
Make your way to the Museum Quarter in time for the 3:30pm guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum. Discover more about one of the world’s most famous artists while exploring one of the largest collections of his works.
Evening
For enjoyable multicultural street dining, amble a couple of blocks along Stadhouderskade to the inviting stalls of Albert Cuypmarkt. With 260 food stalls to choose from, the only trouble here is choosing where to eat.
As the sun sets, hop on a glass-topped rondvaartboten (tour boats) to relax and cruise through your new favourite city after dark.
Day 2
Morning
Start the day off in Dam Square, the heart of the city, and marvel the ornate Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace) from the Golden Age. Beat the crowds on the high street, Kalverstraat, for a spot of shopping before making your way over to the Red Light District in the medieval De Wallen. As you stroll through this neon-lit neighbourhood, visit Oude Kerk (Amsterdam's oldest church) and Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (a seventeenth century clandestine church).
Afternoon
Hop on a tram to a foodie’s paradise, Food Hallen. Enjoy Crusty Crab bao buns, paired with local craft beer - or sip on bubbly cocktails with fresh, warm pita and homemade dip. With over 21 stalls to choose from, you are spoilt for choice. Walk off your lunch alongside the many ponds in the huge Vondelpark.
Evening
Set most of the early evening aside for the Rijksmuseum with its wondrous collection of Golden Age (Dutch) paintings.
Time permitting, round off the day by catching a tram to Chinatown, near Centraal Station. This area is dotted with Chinese, Indonesian and Thai eateries. Oriental City is favoured by locals and specialises in Cantonese and Szechuan food. Feast on dim sum with deliciously warming fillings and, after dinner, wind up at In de Wildeman - one of the city’s finest proeflokalen (tasting rooms) for a glass of genever. The perfect end to your short stay in the city.
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