Weekend in Amsterdam | 20 Things to do and places to see in Amsterdam
We planned our weekend in Amsterdam in less than 24 hours. It was a last-minute trip organised with some friends, and it actually turned out pretty cool. We loved Amsterdam so much that we decided to come back the next month.
Amazing, isn’t it? It doesn’t matter how long you’re staying in Amsterdam, in this guide, you will find all the best things to do in Amsterdam in a weekend. From its incredible canals to the typical brewery, if you plan in advance your Amsterdam weekend, you will see how many things you will manage to do.
So, are you ready to fly to Amsterdam? Laten We Gaan! (Let’s go!).
Best time to visit Amsterdam
We believe that there is no right or wrong time to visit Amsterdam. We visited Amsterdam in the summer, and we absolutely loved it. The weather was just perfect, with the temperature between 20 and 25 degrees.
However, if you are a winter lover, Amsterdam is one of these destinations you will love in Europe in winter. Instead, if you’re like Alessia, who doesn’t really enjoy the cold months, you must visit Amsterdam in spring or summer.
In both seasons, the temperature will be mild, and you will be able to make the most of your journey around this gorgeous capital.
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How to get around Amsterdam
Why visit Amsterdam?
Why not! There are so many reasons why you should visit Amsterdam. From the incredible canals, stunning architecture and cosy nightlife, Amsterdam is worth visiting.
We’ve been living in the UK for so many years, and only recently have we spent a weekend in Amsterdam. We heard many stories about how incredible this city is, and we couldn’t wait to witness it with our eyes.
We experienced the best of Amsterdam in just two days, and now the city has figured out the list of best places to travel in Europe, in our opinion. There is everything a traveller would like to experience, from fun nights to culture, history and also photography for addicts like us.
Weekend in Amsterdam Itinerary Map
10 Useful Amsterdam Travel Tips
20 Things to do in a weekend in Amsterdam
Weekend in Amsterdam things to do | Perfect weekend in Amsterdam
Walk around Jordaan quarter
Let’s start planning your weekend trip to Amsterdam. One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is stroll around Jordaan quarter. Thanks to its cute photo spots, and narrow canals, your morning in this area of Amsterdam will be absolutely worth it. Thanks to its photogenic corners, Jordaan quarter is also considered one of the most instgrammable places in Amsterdam.
Spending two days at the end of the week in Amsterdam, you will see a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists hanging out together in the many cafes and bars.
Consider also checking for accommodations in Jordaan District. This area offers affordable stays if you’re looking for a unique place to relax. You can check here our suggestion.
Rent a bike and discover Amsterdam’s canals
You can’t be in Amsterdam without renting a bike and exploring its beautiful canals. I think it is one of the unique ways to see Amsterdam and even the funniest one.
We realised that most people love cycling around the city; therefore, be careful while going around. Fun things to think about is that in Amsterdam is entirely legal to go in three on a bike.
You can rent your bike here.
Explore the Red Light District
Our weekend in Amsterdam was going as planned, but still, one of the prominent landmarks of the city was missing, the Red Light District. I know we forgot, but I’m glad we walked without Google Maps and roamed along the red-light district.
It’s a unique experience in Amsterdam, and you need to ensure that it’s on the top of your weekend guide Amsterdam. Apart from the picturesque culture, Amsterdam’s red-light district is one of the oldest areas in the city.
Make sure you visit the red light district during the night and remember to don’t take pictures of the girls behind the glasses as it’s strictly forbidden.
Admire the gorgeous Van Gogh Museum
Are you a Van Gogh lover? We have the right place for you. During your Amsterdam weekend trip, make sure you book your ticket to the gorgeous Van Gogh Museum in advance.
Home to the world’s most extensive collection of the famous painter, Van Gogh museum is one of the top attractions in Amsterdam. With more than 200 paintings, drawings and letters from Van Gogh, this museum is pure art, and it’s one of the most incredible activities in Amsterdam. Check the availability and book your tickets here.
Step inside Anne Frank House and learn about her story
It’s time to step back and witness what happened during WWII. Amsterdam is also known for being an important landmark in Anne Frank’s life.
In fact, during your weekend in Amsterdam, you can’t miss visiting the house where she was hiding during the war. In addition, we did a private walking tour where our guide was able to share with us the stories of Anne Frank, the move from Germany and the time in hiding.
During the tour, you will see the Jewish Historical Museum and the Anne Frank House facade.
Breakfast with a view at Blue Amsterdam
There is no better place than Blue Amsterdam to start your day. A coffee and a breakfast with a view are what we all need. This incredible place has a 360 view of Amsterdam and is amazing (it’s one of the tallest buildings in Amsterdam).
We booked our table in advance as it was during the weekend but you can also pop in without a reservation and try your luck. Unfortunately, despite being an instagrammable place in Amsterdam, this place is not very common among tourists.
Top Tips | If you’re spending a weekend in Amsterdam, make sure you book a table in advance and perhaps early in the morning to have enough time to take pictures without many people around.
Visit Rijksmuseum
This is undoubtedly one of the most incredible things to do in Amsterdam. Considered one of the most famous museums and the perfect location for your Instagram pictures, Rijksmuseum is a must-see in the city.
The museum is open every day except Sundays, and you can pre-book your tickets here or you can purchase the Amsterdam city card where the museum is included. Make sure you stop and admire the stunning library with its books, paintings, books and gothic arches.
Snap a photo at Amsterdam welcome sign
It might be a clichè, but if you love it you can’t miss taking a snap with the “I Amsterdam” sign. The iconic landmark of Amsterdam is just behind the Rijksmuseum Museum.
We suggest you get there early if you spend a weekend in Amsterdam. So many people love to climb the sign and get different angles. After the photo, relax in the wonderful plaza with the water fountain in front of the sign.
Weekend trip to Amsterdam
Do some shopping at Bloemenmarkt | Best Markets in Amsterdam
We need to be honest, our weekend in Amsterdam was planned so last minute that we didn’t have time to organise a proper itinerary. This is what happens when you have in a pub with friends and decide to book the next flight to Amsterdam.
Fun, isn’t it? After our delicious brunch at Blue Amsterdam, we started walking around the canal and discovered this gorgeous floating market, Bloemenmarkt. Such a gorgeous and colourful flower market that we have ever been to. Open since 1862, Bloemenmarkt is a must-see in Amsterdam. Step inside the boat on the Singel canal and check out the beautiful flowers.
Walk around De 9 Straatjes
Not only one of the most instagrammable places in Amsterdam Nine Street is such a cute place to hang out, thanks to its lovely atmosphere and great bars and restaurants. Grab a drink or lunch in one of the cute bars around Nine Streets and enjoy this buzzing area.
The Nine Streets area is perfect for snapping a few pictures if you are a sunset lover. Thanks to its surroundings and the buildings around, you will witness a stunning sunset with great colours. So, don’t forget to bring your camera!
Visit Zaanse Schans
If you’re looking to stay a bit longer and spend 3 days in Amsterdam, you can take a day trip and visit De Zaanse Schans. This picturesque village is well-known for being home to windmills and traditional Dutch-style houses.
You can reach Zaanse Schans by train from Amsterdam city centre, which will only take 30 minutes. We stayed in Zaandam, and the journey was quicker and closer. So start your day early and don’t miss this fantastic day trip from Amsterdam to visit this cute and colourful place.
Spend a few minutes wandering around Dam Square
Dam Square is the most visited attraction in Amsterdam. The national monument is located in Dam Square, and many people sit and relax around it.
We invite you to spend a few minutes wandering around one of the world’s largest squares, even though it tends to be crowded on weekends. In Dam Square, there are also events or demonstrations that can make taking photos impossible and take precious time to discover other worthy areas in the Netherland Capital.
Have the perfect time in Amsterdam | Amsterdam Weekend Guide
Hop on a canal cruise in Amsterdam
A canal cruise of Amsterdam costs very little, and in our opinion, can give you a high understanding of the city as soon you arrive. The regular trip costs only €14 (£12 | $13), and you can book it in advance here!
If you want to tour the canals of Amsterdam in style, opt for a 90-minute boat cruise with snacks and drinks. This is the ideal activity to plan for sunset and get to the city with the best lights. The cruise on a comfy boat, all-inclusive, costs little as €19 if you book in advance.
Check here the tour stops, as the terminal is at Ann Frank House. Book here your boat tour in Amsterdam.
Boozy canal cruise
Spend some quality time with your friends or loved ones on a luxurious boat navigating Amsterdam Canals. The city of bridges is favoured to host stag do and romantic weekends in Europe.
Hop on a boat and drink as much as you can. Your booze cruise will depart at Rembrandt Square and float into the city’s heart, where the main canals are. Then you’ll sail along the Amstel River, through the 7 bridges and some other hidden gems of Amsterdam.
Make sure you book this tour in advance as it tends to go sold out quickly.
Cycle around the city
Without any doubt, the best way to get around Amsterdam is by bike. You will see so many locals and tourists strolling around with their bikes that sometimes it’s hard to find a parking spot. Crazy, isn’t it?
We highly recommend renting a bike if you are only in Amsterdam for a weekend. It’s the best way to explore the city and try to see as much as possible. Of course, you can also walk, but we believe the actual experience is with a bike and feel like a local.
Grab a beer at IJ Brewery
Did anyone say beer? Well, this is not only just a random brewery; you will be drinking a beer inside a windmill.
How cool is that? Thanks to our friends, we discovered this place and to be honest, we’re so happy to share it with you. Built in the 16th century, destroyed and being rebuilt again, IJ Brewery welcomes everyone to experience drinking a beer inside the windmill.
You can also visit the actual brewery; the English tour tends to be around 3 PM, and it’s completely free. Check it out on their website.
Step inside the Royal Palace
Amsterdam is known for its gorgeous canals, coffee shops, delicious food and architecture. Yes, that’s correct. Today, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam is considered one of the most famous landmarks in Europe.
Located in the heart of the city centre and with a stunning facade, the Royal Palace needs to be on the top of your list of the best things to do in Amsterdam. The tickets are only €12.50, which is not expensive at all. Open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, make sure you step inside the breathtaking palace.
Connect with nature at Hortus Botanicus
Considered not only one of the best Instagram spots in Amsterdam but even one of the cutest and best things to visit while in the city. This peaceful oasis with its spiral staircase is today a great place to visit while in the city.
We felt like stepping back into London vibes, reaching Kew Gardens, which are pretty similar. You will entirely fall in love with the Botanic Garden from the moment you will step inside. Don’t forget to purchase your tickets here or buy an Amsterdam city pass where the entrance will be included.
Weekend in Amsterdam what to do
Take the ferry to NDSM
If you’re looking for alternative things to do in your 48 hours in Amsterdam, we have the right thing for you. Hop on a ferry and reach Amsterdam-Noord. You will see a completely different side of Amsterdam that you never thought about. Take a bike with you and cycle around and reach NDSM Werf.
You can step inside the complex and visit the incredible and interactive installations. It’s more than just simple street art; you will see how many beautiful and creative things art and artists can do. This location is perfect for your pictures of Amsterdam as well, so don’t forget to bring your camera.
Before leaving and taking the ferry back, go up to the A’Dam lookout observation deck with a stunning 360 view of Amsterdam. If you purchase your Amsterdam Card here, the entrance is free otherwise, the price per adult is €16.50. You can try the extreme swing, but if you’re afraid of heights, you can just enjoy the stunning view of Amsterdam.
TIPS | Visit A’Dam Lookout around sunset time
Relax at Vondelpark
It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting Amsterdam in winter or summer; you will always have time to relax in the park and chill for a bit. This is one of the most popular parks in Amsterdam; locals and tourists love to hang out here. We spent 48 hours in Amsterdam, and after an entire day with our friend’s baby, we needed a bit of relaxation.
You can lay on the grass, chill by the pond or even rent a bike and cycle around the park. If you’re visiting Amsterdam in summer, you might have the opportunity to catch an open-air festival or concert.
Here you can find out more about the schedule.
Roam around and check out Amsterdam’s best street art
We love street art, and we visited Shoreditch and Brick Lane in London whenever we had the opportunity. This time was no different.
We made a personalised map only for street art places. The best place for street art in Amsterdam is Spuistraat. Look up and see the colourful buildings covered with murals and incredible designs.
Experience Heineken Brewery
Calling all beer lovers! We have the perfect place for you. After Brouwerij ‘t IJ, Heineken brewery is the second most visited place in Amsterdam. Known in the entire world, Heineken brewery is a must-do during your weekend in Amsterdam. In fact, purchase your tickets in advance and don’t miss this incredible opportunity!
Visit a weekend market in Amsterdam
When it comes to local markets, we are always ready to share with you the best ones. This time we discover by mistake Albert Cuyp Market, an open-air market with many stands and shops. You can find anything you might be looking for.
From local products, food and souvenirs to bring back home. Let’s be honest; there is no better place to visit than a local market.
Open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM; this market is one of the best things to do in a weekend in Amsterdam.
Delve into Netherlands Cheese
You can’t leave Amsterdam without sampling some of the world-famous Holland cheese! Out of the flower market in the centre of Amsterdam, there is an exquisite shop dedicated to cheese. So even if you have no space in your luggage for some souvenirs from Amsterdam, get in for the same samplings.
Did you know that Gouda is from the Netherlands? Try the greatest cheeses from the Netherlands, including Beemster, Edam, Leyden, Limburger, Gouda, Maasdam, and many more. However, if you are into sweet, we highly recommend trying the best pancakes in Amsterdam, our favourite spot is De Carrousel Pannenkoeken!!
TOUR WE SUGGEST | Walk around the famous cheese streets with a local guide and sample some of the best products from the Netherlands. We suggest this tour if you are short on time in Amsterdam but still want to have the best experience. Check availability for the cheese tour here!
Try the famous Dutch BitterBallen
Walking through the narrow alleys and cobblestone streets of Amsterdam’s city centre, step into a local shop and this Dutch delight.
BitterBallen is fried, minced beef balls that are incredibly tasty. Dip them in the hot mustard and enjoy the bite. BitterBallen is not available everywhere! This way of eating street food reminds us a lot of Naples, where you can get a cone (Cheaper than Amsterdam) and walk touring the city.
TOP TIPS | Consider booking a food tour with a local – They will get you out of traditional tourist places and show you the local products.
Go for a day trip to Zaandam
We stayed in Zaandam as it was the cheaper option during our weekend in Amsterdam. Zaandam is a city right on the outskirt of Amsterdam, well known for its fantastic architecture and colourful buildings. However, even though expecting this fantastic scenery, we were surprised.
Located 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam city centre, Zaandam is the perfect day trip to consider if you’re looking for alternative things to do in Amsterdam.
Zaandam will surprise you with its particular designs, long canals, and boat cafes. If you’re visiting during summer, Zaandam is really nice as it offers many places to sit outside and even have breakfast/brunch on a boat; highly recommended.
How to go for a cheap weekend in Amsterdam | Amsterdam Tips
Where to eat and drink in Amsterdam
FoodHallen | Best Indoor Market in Amsterdam
We absolutely adored this place. Then, thanks to our friends living in Amsterdam, we discovered Food Hallen, an indoor market offering a wide variety of food. From typical Dutch food to street food, you can taste anything you like.
Open every day from midday, and you can grab lunch or dinner while in Amsterdam. Locals love to hang out here; if you’re going on a Saturday, you might have to wait a bit for a table.
Bagels & Beans
Another place that we really loved for food while spending our weekend in Amsterdam was Bagels & Beans. This place makes excellent and tasty bagels, perfect for brunch or lunch, and inside, you can put anything you’d like.
Brouwerij ‘t IJ
You can’t leave Amsterdam without visiting this old windmill and having a beer in its garden. I mean, it’s one of the best experiences to do while in Amsterdam. We didn’t know that a place like this would exist but so happy that our friend pointed it out. You can even tour the brewery and see how their beer production is made.
Where to stay in Amsterdam for a weekend
LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL
W Amsterdam
Located in the heart of the city centre, W Amsterdam is the perfect place to stay. Thanks to its modern and incredible rooms, your stay in Amsterdam will be memorable.
Ah, don’t forget to check out their rooftop pool with an incredible view of Amsterdam.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Grand Canal Boutique Hotel
Close to the Jordaan quarter, the boutique hotel is another perfect accommodation for you to look at. With its gorgeous interior and stunning view over the canal, staying at Grand Canal Boutique Hotel will be the best solution for your weekend in Amsterdam.
Travel Insurance for a weekend trip to Amsterdam
Don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, no matter your journey. We have learned that at our expense while travelling from Dubrovnik to Hvar, our ferry was cancelled because of rough sea weather.
Even though Amsterdam is safe, the pandemic taught many people that things might go wrong everywhere in the world, and insurance is frequently the only option to mitigate any problems with the least cost or stress to you.
Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A fantastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link.
SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads.
How much costs a weekend in Amsterdam
- Cost of meals and drinks: €110 – €160
- Accommodation for 2 nights: €200
- Activities: €100
- I Amsterdam City Card – €85 for 48 hours
- Additional transport (train to the airport): €5.50pp
Q&A Weekend in Amsterdam
WHERE TO GO NEXT?
Every time is good to travel and make new experiences. As London-based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend. Below you will find a few inspirations for your next trip to Europe:
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