The Perfect Amsterdam Weekend Trip
Looking for a quick getaway? This Amsterdam weekend trip itinerary is an ideal destination for a short escape packed with culture, adventure, and scenic views.
With its rich history, world-class museums, and unique neighborhoods, it’s I’ve been lucky enough to visit Amsterdam multiple times, and each trip has shown me something new.
Whether it’s wandering through the streets of Jordaan, exploring quirky museums, or enjoying a canal-side drink, there’s no shortage of things to do.
This 2-day Amsterdam itinerary is packed with must-see sights, cultural experiences, and local favorites, while also keeping budget in mind. From free activities to affordable eats and money-saving passes, this guide will help you make the most of your weekend without overspending.
So, whether you’re cycling along the canals, exploring hidden alleyways, or stopping for a stroopwafel, get ready to discover why Amsterdam is the perfect city for a weekend escape! 🚲✨
Before You Go: Essential Amsterdam Travel Tips
📍 Need a full guide to the Netherlands? Click here for everything you need to know before your trip!
But if you’re short on time, here are the key things to keep in mind for your Amsterdam weekend trip.
🚋 Getting Around Amsterdam
Public Transport: Amsterdam’s trams, buses, and metro make it easy to navigate the city. The OV-chipkaart works for all public transport—just tap in and out. While single-use tickets are available, multi-day passes are a better deal if you’re staying more than a day.
Biking Culture: If you want to see the city like a local, renting a bike is the way to go. Amsterdam is incredibly bike-friendly, but traffic moves fast, so be sure to follow cycling rules!
Taxis & Rideshares: Uber is available in Amsterdam, but it’s often more expensive than public transport. Taxis can be pricey and aren’t always the fastest option.
🚨 Uber Tip: Due to city regulations, Uber drivers can only pick up from designated locations, which may not be exactly where you are. Check the app carefully to avoid any confusion—I learned this the hard way!
💳 Cash or Card? What to Use in Amsterdam
Many places prefer card payments, and some don’t even accept cash! Contactless debit/credit cards (or Apple/Google Pay) are the best way to pay at restaurants, shops, and public transport. If you need cash, ATMs are available, but you won’t need much.
🌦 Amsterdam Weather: What to Expect
Amsterdam’s weather is unpredictable, so be ready for sun, wind, and rain—sometimes all in the same day! Summers are mild but can have heat waves, while winters are cold and damp.
Packing Essentials:
☔ Rain jacket – Showers are common year-round.
🧥 Layers for winter – The wind near the canals can be brutal.
🌞 UV umbrella – This one has 50+ UV protection and doubles as rain cover!
With the right gear, you’ll be ready to enjoy Amsterdam in any season! 🚲✨
Getting to and Navigating Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a breeze to travel to and explore, whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or bus. ✈️🚲
With a well-connected transport network, bike-friendly streets, and efficient public transit, getting from place to place is seamless.
From landing at Schiphol Airport to hopping on a tram, metro, or bike, there’s a transportation option to suit every traveler. No matter how you choose to get around, Amsterdam’s compact layout makes exploring effortless! 🚆✨
Getting from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam
If you’re flying into Schiphol Airport, you’re just 10 km (6.2 miles) southwest of central Amsterdam, and there are several easy ways to get into the city.
🚆 Train ($) – Fast & Affordable: The direct train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station takes just 15-20 minutes and is one of the quickest and most cost-effective options. Check Dutch Railways (NS) for schedules.
🚌 Bus ($$) – Direct to Popular Areas: The Amsterdam Airport Express (Bus 397) connects Schiphol with key parts of the city. While it takes a bit longer than the train, it may drop you closer to your final destination.
🚖 Taxi/Uber ($$$) – Convenient but Costly: A taxi or ride-share is ideal if you have heavy luggage or want a direct ride to your hotel, but it’s significantly more expensive than public transport.
💡 Money-Saving Tip: A GVB multi-day pass or reloadable OV-chipkaart covers public transport within the city and airport transfers, making it a smart choice for frequent travelers.
Navigating Amsterdam: Public Transport Made Easy
Amsterdam’s efficient and well-connected public transport system makes getting around simple, whether you’re using trams, buses, metros, or ferries. Travelers can easily hop on with an OV-chipkaart, a contactless payment card, or a multi-day transport pass.
🚋 Trams – The most convenient way to travel within the city center, with frequent stops near major attractions.
🚌 Buses & Metros – Best for reaching neighborhoods and areas beyond central Amsterdam.
⛴️ Ferries – A free and scenic way to cross the IJ River, connecting the city center to Amsterdam Noord.
For a hassle-free trip, consider a GVB multi-day pass or a city card offering unlimited rides for 24 to 72 hours—an easy way to explore Amsterdam without worrying about fares!
Exploring Amsterdam on Two Wheels 🚲
Biking is a way of life in Amsterdam, and it’s one of the best ways to explore the city. With flat roads, dedicated bike lanes, and a cycling-friendly culture, renting a bike is both convenient and fun. Most rental shops charge around €10-€15 ($10 – $15) per day, with discounts for multi-day rentals. Reserve your bike here!
🚴♀️ Essential Biking Tips:
✔ Use designated bike lanes – They’re well-marked and help keep traffic flowing smoothly.
✔ Signal your turns – Extend your right arm straight out to turn right and your left arm out to turn left (different from U.S. signals!).
✔ Lock up properly – Bike theft is common, so always use a sturdy frame lock and chain—rental shops typically provide these.
✔ Stay alert at intersections – Trams, buses, and pedestrians all share the roads, so keep an eye on your surroundings.
🚨 Safety Tip: While helmets aren’t common among locals, they’re a smart choice—most rental shops have them available.
For a smooth ride, brush up on Amsterdam’s biking rules before heading out. Check out this guide for all the essentials!
Whether you’re cruising through Vondelpark or cycling along the canals, biking lets you see more, spend less, and experience Amsterdam like a local. 🚲✨
🎟️ I Amsterdam City Card: Your Key to Hassle-Free Sightseeing
Want to experience Amsterdam’s top attractions while saving money? The I Amsterdam City Card offers free museum entry, unlimited public transport, and exclusive discounts, making it a great value for visitors.
✨ What’s Included?
✔ Free entry to 70+ museums and attractions, including the Rijksmuseum, and a canal cruise
✔ Unlimited public transport – hop on trams, buses, and metros with ease
✔ A complimentary canal cruise – a must for first-time visitors
✔ Discounts on bike rentals, tours, restaurants, and more
Available in 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120-hour passes, the card activates with first use, making it flexible for any itinerary.
💡 Worth it? About half the activities in this itinerary are covered by the I Amsterdam City Card, so if you’re planning to visit multiple museums and use public transport, this pass can save you serious cash!
Day 1: Discovering Amsterdam’s Historic Charm
Kick off your Amsterdam weekend trip by immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, culture, and scenic streets. The historic center is the perfect place to start, offering a mix of powerful landmarks, unique museums, and charming neighborhoods that showcase the heart of the city.
🕍 Anne Frank House
Begin your day at one of Amsterdam’s most significant historical sites—the Anne Frank House. This canal-side building holds an immense history, as it was the secret hiding place where Anne Frank and her family lived for over two years during World War II.
Now a museum, the house offers an intimate and emotional look into Anne’s life, with preserved rooms, artifacts, and exhibits that share her story. Walking through the secret annex where she wrote her famous diary is a profound experience that leaves a lasting impact.
🎟 Tickets are only available online and sell out fast, so book in advance. You can choose a self-guided visit or opt for a museum entry + 30-minute presentation for deeper context. Check the official website for availability.
💡 Want to learn more about Amsterdam’s WWII history? A guided walking tour is a great way to gain additional insight before or after your visit.
🌷 Amsterdam Tulip Museum
After lunch, take a short walk to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum. It’s a small but fascinating museum that tells the story of the Netherlands’ most iconic flower.
Unlike the famous tulip fields outside the city, this museum dives into the history and cultural significance of tulips, from Tulip Mania in the 1600s to modern-day farming techniques.
Inside, interactive exhibits and historical artifacts detail how tulips became a symbol of Dutch heritage.
🌷 Fun Fact: Tulips aren’t actually native to the Netherlands. They were introduced from Turkey in the 16th century and quickly became a status symbol among Dutch elites.
The museum also features a gift shop with tulip-themed souvenirs like books, ceramics, and artwork.
🚨 Thinking about bringing tulip bulbs home? Many countries, including the U.S., have strict customs regulations, so check the rules before buying!
🧀 Amsterdam Cheese Museum
Located just next door to the Tulip Museum, the Amsterdam Cheese Museum is a must-visit for cheese lovers. While more of a cheese shop with museum elements, it offers a fun and tasty experience where you can sample different types of Dutch cheese for free!
Alongside tastings, you’ll find small museum downstairs with exhibits on Dutch cheese-making traditions. You can even snap a cheese-themed photo dressed as a Dutch cheesemaker—because why not?
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious stop, this spot is a great way to experience the Netherlands’ cheese culture firsthand.
🏡 Explore Jordaan Neighborhood
After indulging in cheese and tulips, take a relaxed walk through Jordaan, one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque and vibrant neighborhoods. Originally a working-class district, Jordaan has evolved into a trendy area filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and peaceful canals.
✔️ Browse De 9 Straatjes (The Nine Streets) – A collection of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and artisan shops.
✔️ Discover hidden courtyards – Some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful hofjes (courtyards) are tucked behind historic homes.
✔️ Enjoy a coffee break – Grab a seat at a canal-side café and soak in the local atmosphere.
Jordaan is the perfect place to wander, take photos, and experience a more relaxed side of Amsterdam. Jordaan is also a great spot to end your night – it’s full of restaurants and lively pubs!
Canal Cruise 🚤
An Amsterdam weekend trip isn’t complete without experiencing the city from the water! The good news? There’s a canal cruise for just about everyone. Whether you’re into wine and cheese tastings, guided audio tours, or laid-back smoke and lounge cruises, there’s an option to match your vibe.
Most of the cruises in this roundup depart near the Anne Frank House, making them a super convenient addition to your Amsterdam weekend trip. Just make sure to select the “Anne Frank House Meeting Point” when selecting your cruise!
Canal Cruise with Unlimited Cheese & Wine Option
Smoke and Lounge City Boat Cruise – Departs at Amsterdam Centraal Station, so allow a bit more time for transportation.
Stroopwafels 🍪
To wind down your first day in Amsterdam, you absolutely have to grab an ooey-gooey stroopwafel!
PRO TIP: If you’ve been tempted by the picture-perfect stroopwafels at Van Wonderen, you might want to think twice. While the shop makes for a cute photo op, expect long lines, steep prices, and underwhelming customer service.
For a truly authentic treat, end your night with a freshly made stroopwafel from Melly’s Stroopwafels, one of Amsterdam’s best local spots. Unlike the pre-packaged versions, these are made to order—crispy on the outside, gooey in the middle, and perfectly buttery. Stick with the classic or go for toppings like chocolate drizzle, nuts, or sea salt for an extra indulgent bite. No matter what, it’s a sweet way to wrap up your day!
Day 2: Art and Local Charm
Your second day in Amsterdam is all about immersing yourself in the city’s creative spirit while enjoying its laid-back charm. From iconic art to cozy cafés and scenic streets, today blends inspiration with relaxation.
Visit the Van Gogh Museum 🎨
Home to the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s work, this museum offers a deep dive into the life and artistry of one of history’s most influential painters.
✨ Must-see pieces include:
- Sunflowers
- The Potato Eaters
- Almond Blossom
- Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette
You’ll also find personal letters, self-portraits, and works by artists who shaped his style.
A visit here is as moving as it is fascinating, giving you a glimpse into Van Gogh’s struggles and creative genius. Since it’s one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions, tickets sell out quickly—booking in advance is a must! Check their official website for the latest availability and hours.
🏠 See the Iconic Dancing Houses
The Dancing Houses (or Dancing Ladies) are some of Amsterdam’s most photographed canal houses. These tilted, narrow, and colorful buildings date back to the 17th century and have become a symbol of the city’s charm and history.
The unique tilt of these houses comes from Amsterdam’s swampy soil, which has caused them to settle over time. While most visitors admire them from the outside, you can actually stay inside a canal house for a truly immersive experience!
📍 Where to See Them: Head to the corner of Damrak and look across the canal for one of the best views.
🌷 Visit the Floating Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt)
No trip to Amsterdam is complete without a stop at Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, located along Singel Canal between Muntplein and Koningsplein.
This colorful market is a gorgeous stop, with fresh flowers, tulip bulbs, Dutch souvenirs, and seasonal plants filling the stalls. While it’s a great place to browse, keep in mind that tulip bulbs sold here are often packaged for tourists. If you plan to plant them, check that they’re certified for export.
Even if you’re not in the market for flowers, Bloemenmarkt is worth a visit for its lively atmosphere and gorgeous photo ops.
The market is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM and on Sundays from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM, making it an easy stop to fit into your Amsterdam weekend trip!
🏛️ Walk Through Dam Square & Visit the Royal Palace
After lunch, make your way to Dam Square, the historic heart of Amsterdam. This lively plaza is surrounded by iconic landmarks, making it an ideal place to soak in the city’s energy, watch street performers, and admire centuries of history.
One of the standout attractions here is the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Originally built in 1648 as the city’s Town Hall, it was later converted into a royal residence by King Louis Bonaparte. Step inside to see massive chandeliers, intricate sculptures, and centuries-old artwork, all within a grand setting fit for royalty.
The palace occasionally closes for royal events, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the entrance, making it easy to add this historic gem to your itinerary.
Exploring Amsterdam’s Red Light District
After fueling up, it’s time to explore one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods—the Red Light District. While often associated with nightlife, this area is a blend of history, culture, and curiosity, offering much more than its reputation suggests.
Beyond its well-known windows, the district is home to narrow alleyways, quirky museums, and centuries-old architecture, making it just as interesting to visit during the day as at night.
I’ve walked through the Red Light District on all three of my trips to Amsterdam, and it wasn’t nearly as seedy as I expected.
On one visit, I strolled through on a Saturday morning around 11 AM, and if I hadn’t been actively looking for it, I might have missed it altogether.
The atmosphere was surprisingly calm and quiet, with locals going about their routines and even families with young children passing through.
In daylight, the district feels more like a historic neighborhood, making it a great spot for a relaxed walk or some unique photos.
At night, however, the energy shifts, and the area becomes busier with bars, neon lights, and nightlife. If you choose to visit in the evening, be sure to stay respectful and follow the rules. Photography of the workers is strictly forbidden, and being mindful of those who work there is non-negotiable.
If you’re interested in learning more about the district’s past, consider joining a walking tour or visiting the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution for an inside look at its history.
🔍 Planning a visit? Check out these essential tips for visitors to make the most of your experience.
Day 2 of your perfect Amsterdam weekend trip wraps up with history, local culture, and some of the city’s most iconic sights. 🚲✨
The Perfect Amsterdam Weekend Trip Map
Final Boarding Call ✈️
Experience the best of Amsterdam with this perfect Amsterdam weekend trip, blending history, culture, and local charm. Pedal through scenic streets, and cruise along the iconic canals. Indulge in a freshly made stroopwafel while uncovering both famous landmarks and hidden gems.
This itinerary balances must-see attractions with quiet, memorable moments. Whether it’s watching the sunset over the canals or wandering through the charming streets of Jordaan.
But your adventure doesn’t have to end here! What are you most excited to experience in Amsterdam?
Let’s keep the conversation going! DM me on Instagram and let me know your thoughts. I’m also happy to help you plan your next adventure! 🚲✨
Have more than two days in Amsterdam? Check out these amazing day trips from Amsterdam!
Have three or more days to explore? Check out this 3 day Amsterdam itinerary!
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