free walking tour amsterdam afternoon

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Free Amsterdam Walking Tours

There are 4 types of free walking tours in Amsterdam, a city center tour, a tour of alternative Amsterdam, a food tour as well as a tour of the Red Light District.

In this post, we explain all of your options, including tour schedules and what you will see on each outing in order to help you pick the best free walking tour.

OVERVIEW AND SCHEDULE

Free walking tours are technically free - there’s no set upfront fee. ( NOTE:  The City of Amsterdam now requires a mandatory tour tax of €1.50 per participant)

They end up being pay-what-you-wish tours, as it is recommended that you pay what you felt the tour was worth at the end of the walk with your guide.

According to online reviews, most guests pay anywhere from €5 - €15 per person. 

• City Center Tours
• Red Light District Tours
• Alternative Tours
• Things to Do in Amsterdam

The type of free walking tours Amsterdam has to offer are varied, including subjects ranging from the  city centre , street art ,  typical Dutch food , as well as the  Red Light District .

Keep in mind that these free walking tours are popular due to their reputation and affordability. Therefore, some are geared more toward the younger, backpacking crowd.

Discover one of the most beautiful cities in Europe while hearing some of its best stories from a passionate local guide who will know all the best places to visit.

If you want to avoid a younger-skewing tour, you might want to consider a  small-group walking tour . There are also bus tours , or you could take a boat tour through the Amsterdam canals or down the Amstel river.

Alternatively, you might want to take a tour of the Amsterdam coffee shops , complete with everything you need to know about marijuana laws in this city.

Tourist Attraction Discount Passes

When you purchase one of these passes you’ll get bundled discounts on multiple popular Amsterdam attractions, including free tours of the city's historic center as well as the Red Light District.  

• The Amsterdam Digital Pass  includes a city audio guide and 10% off several other tours, including an Anne Frank tour, a Red Light District tour, a 2-hour bike tour, and more.
• The Dutch Countryside Card also has a city audio guide and 10% off a variety of other tours.
• Go City Amsterdam Pass  also has a Jewish Cultural Tour and other popular activities/attractions.

CITY CENTER TOURS

These pay-what-you-wish walking tours concentrate on Amsterdam’s city center and begin from either Dam Square or Central Station.

These tours are designed to give visitors an overview of the core of the Dutch capital, and give you a taste of Dutch culture.

Hear how Amsterdam started out as a small fishing village and why it became one of the most liberal cities in the world.

You can expect most tours to cover the Royal Palace, the Old Harbor, De Oude Kerk, New Church, and stroll along historic streets and canals, exploring the centuries-old churches and markets. 

Some will also cover the Red Light district and the "coffeeshop" culture in Amsterdam, as well as visiting the old Jewish Quarter and the Anne Frank House.

We list 3 companies below plus our own GPS-led audio tour.

All 3 are well-reviewed companies. The first company is our favorite but the 2nd company  offers the most times  throughout the day.

As we mentioned in the previous section, if you are considering either the  Amsterdam Digital Pass or the Dutch Countryside Card , you already have a completely free tour of Amsterdam included in both passes.

GPS-Led Audio Tour

We've recorded one of our tour guides as he gives his Intro to Amsterdam tour and have put it on a GPS-led audio tour app.

Listen to a sample.

• Purchase an audio tour  – $2.99
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map
• Enjoy the tour(s).

FreeDam Tours

Another highly rated tour company offers a 2.5 - 3-hour walk with an enthusiastic, local guide.

They offer two tours every day, one at 11:00 am and another at 14:00 (2 pm).

You can book the tours here .

Classic Amsterdam Tour

This walking tour always has local Dutch guides leading 2-hour walks of the city center. Tours operate at 10:30 am, 13:30 (1:30 pm), and 16:00 (4 pm).

Think of this as an intro to Amsterdam Tour. The classic tour covers the Royale Palace, drug policies, the history of trade, and an overview of the Red Light District.

The City of Amsterdam limits tours to 15 participants, so space is limited.

All operate on the pay-what-you-wish model.

Free Tour of Amsterdam by Sandemans New Europe

This free 2-hour walking tour of Amsterdam will take you to all the city's best sights.

You will be guided by local tour guides to important locations, including the iconic canals, the Dutch East India Company, the Anne Frank House, and many others.

The past of Amsterdam is brought to life, and knowledgeable guides give you an authentic introduction to one of Europe's favorite cities while taking you places that buses simply cannot go.

To know more about the tour or to book it, click here .

NOTE: If you are a tour guide or sightseeing company in Amsterdam and you would like to have your tours listed here, let us know .

RED LIGHT DISTRICT TOURS

The Red Light District of Amsterdam is world-famous and the subject of much fascination. 

Amsterdam actually has 3 red-light districts, but it's the one located in the district DeWallen that is most famous.

However, the city of Amsterdam has banned large groups from touring through the prostitution alleys of DeWallen, and as a result, few companies offer walking tours of that area.

However, you can visit on your own and we recommend using our audio tour below.

We offer an audio tour of the Red Light District, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides.

Here’s a sample.

Side Walks Tours

Learn the when, how, and why of the city’s famous Red-Light District on a professionally guided walk through this neighborhood.

This tour will be offering tours in Spanish at 6 pm from Wednesday - Sunday, at 5 pm on Thursdays, and at 4:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays beginning in October 2022.

Reserve your spot here .

Paid Small Group Tours

If you're looking for a more personalized tour, you can pay for a small-group tour of the Red Light District with a number of companies.

When you purchase one of these passes you’ll get bundled discounts on multiple popular Amsterdam attractions, including free tours of the Red Light District.  

Self-Guided Exploration Game

Although it's not technically a tour, this game will have you exploring the Red Light District and looking for clues to solve a mystery as you discover the area.

This service isn't free, but the price is reasonable and close to what you might tip a guide for a pay-what-you-wish walking tour.

Download or learn more about the game .

World War II tours offer insight into the 350 years of Jewish history before the commencement of WWII.

It showcases the life of Jews at that time, how they were deported to death camps and how they went into hiding to save their lives just like Anne Frank and her family did.

Free Tour of the Jewish Quarter, WWII & the Anne Frank Story

The tour uses Anne Frank's account to explain what it was like for Jews and non-Jews to live in a country under the the Nazi occupation.

It also discusses the amazing conduct of the heroes and betrayers who took part in the conflict, both Jewish and Christian.

The trip will take place in Amsterdam's Jewish Quarter, the center of the city's Jewish community.

The tour will also include any basic information that participants might want to know about Amsterdam.

To know more about the tour or to book tickets, click here .

ALTERNATIVE AMSTERDAM

Looking for something a bit more unique and different?

These alternative Amsterdam tours usually have a different theme than the usual history-and-culture tours. 

Free Amsterdam Tours

If you’re interested in learning about more than just the most popular tourist destinations, this Free Alternative Tour of Amsterdam is a good option.

You’ll learn about Dutch traditions, restaurants, street art, and the UNESCO canal belt.

Departs daily at 13:30 (1:30 pm).

NOTE: Not currently available as of Sept 2022.

This isn't really a tour, but if you're looking for an interesting way to discover some of the most notable locations in the city, you may want to consider one of these games.

There is currently just one other mystery game in addition to the Red Light District game which offers an alternative look at Amsterdam:

• The Mystery of the Golden Tulip

These games aren't free, but at €10-€15, they're definitely in the range of what one might tip a guide for a pay-what-you-wish walking tour.

FREE FOOD TOURS

Even a free food tour of Amsterdam can be pay-what-you-wish to attend! Free samples are handed out throughout the tour.

Keep in mind, however, that you should have cash on hand if you want to purchase more of your favorite treats.

Discover why Amsterdammers eat 17 kilos of cheese a year, what are bitterballen or kroketten, and when do we eat it, what is a typical Dutch dinner, and where can you get the best chocolate from Amsterdam.

The tour is pay-what-you-wish (and the samples are included). It runs on Saturdays at 10:30 am.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

What you will see on a Free Tour through the Red Light District of Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and it is one of the cities that is an obligatory stop if you are in Northern Europe. The River Amstel winds its way through the many picture-perfect canals that characterize the city and lead you to some of the main neighborhoods of the city along with the IJ Bay. Popularly known as the “Venice of the North” because of its waterways which cross the city, like in other European cities such as Hamburg, Bruges, or Stockholm. 

The free walking tours in Amsterdam will help you to get to know the most interesting and emblematic places in the city, as well as the hidden charms and lesser-known destinations in the city thanks to the recommendations and advice your local guides give you during the walk. Some of the must-see spots that you can’t miss are the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank’s House, the National Museum of Amsterdam, (Rijksmuseum) Dam Square, Vondelpark, the Museum of Rembrandt’s House, The Royal Palace, the oldest house in the city-Oude Kerk, the floating Flower Market, the Begijnhof, (the famous, enclosed courtyard) Rembrandtplein Square, or the Magere Brug Bridge.  Discover all these amazing places in Amsterdam with the help of a local tour guide from GuruWalk. 

There are many more monuments and places to see on your free walking tour in Amsterdam, which have also been reviewed by other travelers who have already done the tour and have evaluated both the route and the local guide.

Free walking tour near Amsterdam

Others cities to visit after amsterdam, find other guruwalks in amsterdam, where are you traveling to.

Of the most liberal city in the world

Discover the fascinating history.

Maximum 15 people per group, for a truly authentic & high quality experience.

Small groups.

Amsterdam from the perspective of real, life-long locals

Informative and fun.

Everything you need to know about Amsterdam in one comprehensive tour!

From history to modern life.

Covering history to modern lifestyle, and unique personal stories you won’t hear anywhere else!

Passionate, super local guides.

Amsterdam Free Walking Tour

Sightseeing, history & cultural heritage tour, “the only free walking tour in amsterdam offering the quality of a small, high-end boutique tour”.

While most free walking tours of Amsterdam offer a quick tour of the main sights, at FreeDam Tours we really take a deep dive into Amsterdam’s unique history and culture.

We combine beautiful sightseeing with exciting storytelling and cover everything you need to know about Amsterdam in one tour. With the perfect mix of information and entertainment, covering history, modern life, and unique personal stories you won’t hear anywhere else to help you understand the essence of Amsterdam and Dutch culture.

Be prepared to challenge all your preconceived ideas you may have of this city because after this tour you will never look and think of Amsterdam in the same way!

Book a tour

Free Walking Tour

Your introduction to amsterdam’s history, culture & modern life.

Offered Daily / 2h 30min / Free

Private Walking Tour

Get up close and personal with amsterdam.

2h 30min / €229,-

THE BEST RATED FREE WALKING TOUR IN AMSTERDAM

Out of more than 800 tours of Amsterdam, we are proud to be The Nr.1 best-rated walking tour in Amsterdam!

Here’s a short video of what your can expect:

Truly an outstanding tour

Believe the hype. This tour is as good as everybody says. You learn a ton and it’s really interesting and fun. An amazing combination. Highly recommend! It will make the rest of your time in Amsterdam so much more interesting and meaningful once you understand more about this fascinating country and city.

Stefanie from Boston - on Guru Walk March 2024

“It will hold your attention”

We had a great time, our guide was good fun and very knowledgeable. Great way to see the city especially on your first day. There’s context given to loads of things without flooding us with historical dates

Andrea - Tripadvisor July 2023

“Lots of fun with great story telling”

This is a great tour. Lots of local information. Great stories about Amsterdam and it’s history. A little bit of everything. Very entertaining.

Emily W - Tripadvisor June 2023

“Fantastic!”

The tour was absolutely fantastic!! It was fascinating, fun and so informative. I recommend it to anybody who wants to know more about Amsterdam, you won’t be disappointed.

Maureen - Airbnb Experinces May 2023

“This was an excellent tour that far exceeded our expectations”.

Our guide was simply fantastic!! We spent about 2 hrs walking around Amsterdam in the rain getting a vast amount of information about the city, its history and current day subjects. There was not a question our guide could not answer and his delivery of the general knowledge was superb. The best guided tour I have ever had in a city!

Gitte_W - Tripadvisor May 2023

“A unique tour experience”

A great tour sharing insights and interesting facts not found on other tours. The tour covered broad areas of the city but had really interesting insights for each.

MypoboySA - Tripadvisor May 2023

“Every visitor to Amsterdam should do this tour!”

If you have not done this tour, cancel your plans and make time for it! This was not just a tour of the city but a historically enriched peek into the principles underlying Dutch culture, all delivered by an extremely knowledgeable and passionate guide. I am looking forward to taking the tour again with my friends and family that come to visit!

Keagsten - Tripadvisor - September 2022

“Best walking tour”

A great experience and a very knowledgeable tour guide. What I liked about it the most us the fact they take you to hidden places and not so obvious touristic spots. So you do have a chance to see the real Amsterdam. I strongly recommend this tour.

Fadi_H - Tripadvisor November 2023

So why walk with us?

Compelling stories.

Fascinating historic events, inspiring stories, and funny personal anecdotes. Supported by pictures, maps and paintings that bring history back to life.

Passionate local guides

Our guides are the best thing that will happen to you in Amsterdam! They are very passionate, truly local, and happy to share their knowledge with you.

Personal attention

Maximum 15 people per group so you can hear your guide clearly, engage with them personally, and get an answer to all your questions – all for a truly high quality experience.

We offer you a tour for free and if you liked it you can tip your guide how much the tour was worth to you. This motivates us to give you the best possible experience – always!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:, when does the tour run.

We have tours every day of the year, EXCEPT ON:

27 April (kings day)

How long is the tour?

It depends a little on the guide and weather, but on average the tour is 2,5 hours long. Distance covered: 2,5 km / 1.5 mi.

Where does the tour end?

The tour ends in front of the Royal Palace on Dam Square.

Are there free tours in other languages except English?

No, unfortunately all our daily tours are in English. It is possible to book a private tour in Dutch or German. Click  here   for more information on our private tours.

Do I need to make a reservation?

It’s not mandatory, but we strongly suggest making a reservation (especially on days like Friday and Saturday!) since the maximum number group of people allowed on a tour is limited to 15 people. Reserving is fast and easy. If you are not able to make a reservation that means the tour is fully booked. But even in that case, there is hope: there are always some people that don’t show up for the reservation, so if you come early (15 minutes before the start) we can put you on the stand-by list and you can take the spot of someone who does not show up for their reservation.

What should I tip?

This is totally up to you, according to your possibilities and how much you enjoyed the tour.

A tour of this scope would normally cost €25-30 but in this case you decide whether the tour met your expectations and you tip accordingly. People that really enjoyed the experience usually tip their guide around €15-€20.

How do I find the guide?

Your tour guide will be at the meeting point (in front of the Stock Exchange at  Beursplein 5 ) 15 minutes before the start of the tour wearing a yellow key-cord with their name holding a big yellow umbrella.

Is the tour cancelled in case of rain?

Is the tour suitable for children.

In our opinion, yes. The tour deals with the subject of prostitution, but all the content (historical and present-day) on our tour is family-friendly. This being a walking of Amsterdam, of course, we also, but definitely not only discuss prostitution and drug policies, on the contrary. Our goal is to show you Amsterdam is so much more than that. However, every parent (and child) is different, so at the end of the day, it’s up to you. Moreover, the city of Amsterdam has banned guided tours from the Red Light District, so we will not be entering the area and seeing sex-workers.

Can I join the free tour with a larger group of 6 or more people?

No, unfortunately not. The maximum number of people allowed on a free (tips only) tour is 5 people. Bigger groups are required to book a private tour. We reserve the right to turn away multiple reservations resulting in groups bigger than 5 people. This includes different members of the same group attempting to join the tour by making several individual bookings.

Meet our guides

FreeDam Tours

FreeDam Tours is a collective of experienced guides with fresh new ideas who are (almost literally) in love with what we do. Founded in 2016 with the mission not to be the biggest, but the best walking tour company in Amsterdam.  We created the ideal formula for the best free walking tour in Amsterdam: one containing the perfect mix of historical depth to make you knowledgeable, compelling facts to make you think again, and personal anecdotes that will make you smile. A tour that speaks to the free spirit of Amsterdam – FreeDam Tours.

freedamtours

Beware of the ice monster! ...

Marine swimming. There are so many cool urban beaches in Amsterdam this year! I’m on a mission to visit all 15 this summer. Like this one at on a former marine base in front of the maritime museum. The setting is stunning and the vibe is very laid-back Amsterdam. Join our tour for this and more local secrets ...and don’t forget to pack your swimwear next time you visit Amsterdam! ☀️🏄🏻‍♂️🚣‍♀️ 👙🏖🚤⛵️☀️ #freewalkingtoursamsterdam #freedamtours #summer2020 #amsterdamtourism #amsterdamcityguide #amsterdam #amstaffsworld #amsterdamcanals #amsterdamcity #amsterdamtrip #amsterdam ...

Nice contrast of sun & clouds behind the palace this morning. But it looks like the sun is winning and it will (finally) get very warm again the coming days. Perfect weather for a walking tour! #freewalkingtouramsterdam #freedamtours #freedamtoursamsterdam #amstafflove #amsterdamworld #amsterdamview #amsterdamlove #amsterdamlife #amsterdamcity #amsterdamtrip #amsterdamtours #amsterdamtouristguide ...

Sebastian making a very important point on his tour 😉 ...

Riding the red bike in the red light district ...

The party is over ...

Autumn in Amsterdam ...

Autumn Amsterdam Orange ...

• Destinations

Free walking tours in Amsterdam

Also known as the Venice of the North, it exudes joy and fun in its highly organized daily life. Its picturesque architecture adorns and brings its streets and canals to life. The well-maintained and fascinating houseboats distinguish this marvelous city from many others. It is welcoming, modern, and progressive, nurturing the environment and its culture at every turn.

Imbued with youth and romantic charm, it offers the opportunity to enjoy memorable strolls through the city, with hundreds of monuments to discover. This city houses more than 50 museums, which for many, are unique in their beauty and freedom.

Tolerant Amsterdam!

Discover Amsterdam with an incredible Free Walking Tour Amsterdam

Free tours in Amsterdam are the best way to discover this fascinating city. With expert and passionate guides, you can explore the main landmarks, immerse yourself in the history of the Royal Palace and the House of Rembrandt, and delve into the vibrant Red Light District and the Anne Frank House. With affordable rates, these guided experiences will take you through the culture and charm of Amsterdam. Plus, you can enjoy free cancellation and read reviews from other visitors. Don't miss out! Free tours offer you the opportunity to visit the city's most iconic places. You can admire the landscape of this charming city, visit museums and points of interest, and explore historic neighborhoods with expert local guides. You'll also find information about meeting points, cancellation policies, and additional activities. Discover Amsterdam in the most authentic and economical way. Reserve your free tour today!

Recommendations for enjoying the guided tour safely and responsibly

• Wear comfortable footwear and clothing suitable for long walks.
• Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially on sunny days or during the summer.
• Stay hydrated during the visit, especially on hot days.
• Follow the guide's instructions at all times and respect the rules of the places visited.
• Be cautious with personal belongings and avoid carrying unnecessary valuables.
• Respect the environment and do not damage monuments, gardens, or other places during the tour.
• Enjoy the guided tour responsibly, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol or other substances that could disrupt the experience.

You may also be interested

Boat Ride on Amsterdam's Canals

Immerse yourself in the unique beauty and charm of Amsterdam with a relaxing boat ride on its famous canals. Enjoy wonderful panoramic views of historic buildings, picturesque bridges, and the quaint neighborhoods that line the water. Learn about the city's history and culture through informative commentary from the tour guide as you navigate Amsterdam's iconic canals. During the tour, you can admire the distinctive architecture of the buildings and savor the quiet and tranquil atmosphere of the water.

Tours of the Jewish Quarter and other iconic neighborhoods of the city

Embark on a fascinating tour of Amsterdam's Jewish Quarter and discover the rich history and vibrant culture that has shaped this part of the city. Take your time to explore the narrow streets and charming canals of the neighborhood while your guide shares stories and anecdotes about Amsterdam's Jewish community. Also, take the opportunity to explore other iconic neighborhoods of the city, such as the Jordaan and the Museum Quarter, where you can immerse yourself in their unique atmosphere and discover cultural and artistic points of interest.

Excursions near Amsterdam, like Zaanse Schans

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city? Take an exciting day trip from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a charming village located just a few kilometers from the city. Discover the beauty of the typical windmills, colorful wooden buildings, and traditional cheese making. Accompanied by an expert guide, you'll learn about the history of Zaanse Schans and have the opportunity to explore its charming streets and museums. Enjoy a peaceful and picturesque day in this destination near Amsterdam that will transport you to bygone times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you'll find answers to the most common questions. If you have any other inquiries, feel free to contact us.

What is the duration of the free tours in Amsterdam?

The duration of free tours in Amsterdam varies depending on the chosen tour. In general, most tours have a duration of approximately two hours. However, we recommend reviewing the description of each tour on our website for the most accurate information.

What is the meeting point for the free tours in Amsterdam?

The meeting point may vary depending on the tour you choose. In general, guides are usually located in central and easily accessible locations, such as recognizable squares or monuments. Once you have booked your free tour, you will receive all the information about the exact meeting point by email.

Additional information about the city, its culture, and its history

Amsterdam is a city with a rich history and a distinctive culture. Here is some additional information to help you discover more about the city and its fascinating heritage:

Cannabis Culture in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is known for its cannabis culture, where coffee shops allow controlled marijuana consumption. However, it's important to be aware of regulations and to respect the rules established in these establishments.

Bicycles, the Preferred Mode of Transport

Bicycles are one of the most popular modes of transportation in Amsterdam. The city boasts an extensive network of bike lanes and parks specially designed for cyclists to enjoy.

Artistic and Cultural Wealth

Amsterdam is home to numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. These spaces display masterpieces from Dutch and internationally renowned artists, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's artistic and cultural richness.

Feel free to explore and immerse yourself in all that Amsterdam has to offer. Enjoy your experience on the free tours and discover the best-kept secrets of this wonderful city!

ARE YOU GOING TO VISIT A CITY NEAR Amsterdam?

• Santiago de Chile
• Santiago de Compostela

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN AMSTERDAM

• Select Tours

Free Tour of Amsterdam

Book the original Amsterdam free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local g ...

Amsterdam Countryside: Zaanse Schans Electric Bike Tour

Get out of the city and see the gorgeous Dutch countryside and Zaanse Schans village on this excelle ...

2-hour Amsterdam Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover Amsterdam's main attractions with your private tour gui ...

3-hour Amsterdam Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Amsterdam's fascinating history and must-see sites with your priva ...

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

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Discover the many faces of Amsterdam with a passionate local guide

The Dutch capital has long been a favorite with visitors to Europe. With the canals and bike paths giving way to a fascinating mix of history and culture, and a reputation as one of the most liberal cities on the planet, it’s not hard to see why! Let us show you this incredible city through the eyes of Amsterdam’s best local tour guides.

The original  Free Tour of Amsterdam  covers many of the city’s top attractions, including Dam Square, the Red Light District, Anne Frank House and more. After you’ve got the overview with the free walking tour, delve deeper with us!

Cruise down Amsterdam’s famous canals on our Boat Tour & take in the best views of the city.

On the WWII & Jewish Quarter Tour you’ll learn about life under Nazi occupation during World War II and you’ll visit some of the most powerful memorials for the victims.

The  Alternative Tour of Amsterdam  will show you street art and you’ll hear about gentrification, drug laws and legal prostitution. After that, the  Red Light District walking tour  takes place every evening, giving you a guide to one of the most fascinating prostitution areas in Europe.

For those wanting to visit Amsterdam on a bike, the  Amsterdam Countryside Bike Tour  will take you outside the city for windmills and more!

Enjoy authentic local experiences

Amsterdam is part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, one of the largest walking tour companies in the world. Offering daily tours in English and Spanish, we believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Amsterdam’s best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

Aside from the Free Tour, in Amsterdam you’ll also find unforgettable tours and experiences. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

Tours & activities across Europe, Israel & USA

• Over 2 million guests per year
• Over 160,000 five-star reviews
• Over 100 tours daily, rain, hail or shine
• Top quality tours with local guides, whatever your budget

Things to do in Amsterdam

Ready to start exploring Amsterdam? Check out these useful tips and don't miss any of the city's main attractions

Sustainable tourism

Have an enjoyable trip and help us promote responsible and sustainable travel to Amsterdam!

The best accommodation in town

Finding the right place to stay can be difficult - that's why we have sorted you out with a list of our favourite hostels and hotels in Amsterdam

The best places to eat in Amsterdam

Don't fall into any tourist trap! Here's a list of the top places to eat in Amsterdam recommended by locals

The greatest bars in the city

Discover our selection of popular spots among the locals to taste from craft beer to delicious cocktails

The best shopping in Amsterdam

Find everything you are looking for with this guide to the best shops, markets and shopping streets in Amsterdam

The local expert guides we work with are proud to show you the best Amsterdam has to offer!

Scroll through to learn more about these unforgettable guides, including where they’re from, why they love Amsterdam and which tours they can offer you.

Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

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Free Walking Tours Amsterdam

• See all photos

The Amsterdam Walking Tour 2 hours

The Anne Frank Tour (Tip Based) Amsterdam

Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based)

Alternative tour Amsterdam (Tip-Based)

Photo Tour in Amsterdam 2 Hours

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

FREE WALKING TOURS AMSTERDAM: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Free Walking Tour Amsterdam

Free walking tour Amsterdam shows you the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, located in the western part of the country. Known for its network of canals, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city is famous for its museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, as well as its vibrant nightlife and coffee shops. The iconic central square, Dam Square, is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. Amsterdam is also home to several parks, including the Vondelpark, which is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

General information

Meet your guide at the Dam Square

Free Walking Tour Amsterdam – Highlights

Free walking tour amsterdam – itinerary.

Free walking tour Amsterdam starts at the Dam Square, the heart of the city, where you can admire the stunning Royal Palace and National Monument. From there, we’ll head towards the Red Light District, a unique and historic neighborhood that has been a hub of Amsterdam’s nightlife for centuries. Our next stop is the beautiful Oude Kerk (Old Church), which is the oldest building in the city and one of the most stunning examples of Gothic architecture in the Netherlands.

Read more...

Afterwards, we’ll stroll along the picturesque canals, passing by charming house boats, iconic bridges, and lively markets. We’ll also visit the Jordaan neighborhood, a charming residential area known for its narrow streets, lovely parks, and cultural heritage. Our final stop is the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the Jewish girl who wrote a diary about her experiences during the Holocaust. Here, you’ll learn about the inspiring story of Anne Frank and her family, and get a glimpse into what life was like for the Jewish people during World War II.

Throughout the tour, your guide will provide insight into the city’s history, culture, and daily life, making this a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Frequent asked questions

What is the maximum number of participants in this free walking tour in amsterdam.

The maximum number of participants is 30 people, although we normally have 15.

Can this free tour be done for one single group?

If you want a tour for only your group, please request a quotation for a private tour.

Can my children participate in this walking tour?

Of course, in Free Tour Amsterdam everyone is welcome.

Do we see all the places listed in the itinerary?

The itinerary of this tour may change sometimes.

What should you bring?

Check the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring and umbrella in case is raining. Bring comfortable shoes, cash and a big smile 🙂

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam

• See all photos

The Amsterdam Walking Tour 2 hours

The Anne Frank Tour (Tip Based) Amsterdam

Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based)

Alternative tour Amsterdam (Tip-Based)

Photo Tour in Amsterdam 2 Hours

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam

• See all photos

The Amsterdam Walking Tour 2 hours

The Anne Frank Tour (Tip Based) Amsterdam

Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based)

Alternative tour Amsterdam (Tip-Based)

Photo Tour in Amsterdam 2 Hours

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam - Things You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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One Day in Amsterdam: A local’s free self guided walking tour of Amsterdam

December 29, 2018 by Karen Turner 31 Comments

I recommend spending more than a day in Amsterdam, however that’s not always possible.  I’ve been living in Amsterdam for over two years and this is an itinerary for 24 hours in Amsterdam with insider tips for Amsterdam.  

This is a self guided walking tour of Amsterdam by a resident (7miles/11km)  or  an Amsterdam itinerary for one day with public transit (4 miles / 6km). It includes more than 20 attractions/famous food places in Amsterdam.   Keep reading for the perfect itinerary for 24 hours in Amsterdam (starting bright and early). This guide to one day in Amsterdam includes a free downloadable map of your walking tour of Amsterdam.

• 1.0.1 DON’T WALK IN THE BIKE LANE.
• 2 NOW PRESENTING: Your one day in Amsterdam walking tour! (Map at the bottom)
• 3.1 8AM: START OFF AT CENTRAAL STATION, VIEWS & BREAKFAST
• 3.2 9AM: CANAL CRUISE IN AMSTERDAM
• 4 10AM: OUR LADY OF THE ATTIC
• 5.1.1 IF YOU DREAM OF SEEING THE TULIPS IN THE FIELD, YOU CAN SEE THEM IN THE TULIP FIELDS IN THE NETHERLANDS FOR FREE ON ANOTHER DAY. CLICK FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO SEE THE TULIPS!
• 6 PART II: DE PIJP (1KM)
• 7.1 2PM: ART MUSEUM OF YOUR CHOICE
• 7.2 4/5PM: VONDELPARK
• 8 ​5:30/6pm: Dinner time at the Foodhallen
• 9 8PM: ANNE FRANK HOUSE
• 10.0.1 LOVE TRYING NEW DRINKS? WE TRIED OUT ALL THE DUTCH LIQUORS THAT WE COULD FIND.  READ ABOUT 13 INTERESTING DUTCH LIQUORS AND SPIRITS TO TRY IN THE NETHERLANDS.
• 10.0.2 MORE INTO BEER? WE’RE ROUNDED UP THE BEST BEER IN AMSTERDAM AND WHERE TO DRINK THE BEST BEER IN AMSTERDAM. (PROOST Y’ALL.)
• 11 LATE NIGHT IN AMSTERDAM
• 12 Sleep (a little)
• 13.1 END OF YOUR WALKING TOUR OF AMSTERDAM  AND TOTAL MILAGE ROUND-UP FOR THIS FREE WALKING TOUR OF AMSTERDAM…
• 14 HAVE YOU BEEN TO AMSTERDAM? LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THOUGHT OF THIS ONE DAY IN AMSTERDAM ITINERARY!
• 15 IF YOU NEED ANY MORE TIPS FOR AMSTERDAM…

Things to mention about this self-guided walking tour of Amsterdam

Don’t walk in the bike lane..

As a biker, it makes me so nervous when I’m dodging tourists in the bike lane.  You all have a sidewalk and and you might get hit by a biker if you decide to walk in the red instead of the sidewalk.

 Be careful, please.  Don’t take selfies in the bike lane, don’t jaywalk and realize that some bikers will not stop for you even if you’re in the crosswalk (they are supposed to stop). If you’re being dinged at, you’re doing something  wrong  .  Click for tips about biking in Amsterdam .

This is a walking tour because  biking in Amsterdam is a terrible idea  if you don’t bike at home as you’re likely to not really understand the signage and/or hit a tourist who is walking in the bike lane.  

If you’re in a wheelchair, this one day itinerary for Amsterdam goes through quite a few crowded areas and/or cramped streets.  If you’re in a wheelchair, cut out the narrow street in the Red Light District and although I’ve tried to be on less crowded streets, navigating the old part of the city of Amsterdam (mostly the morning itinerary) is more likely to be the problematic part.  Similarly, the Begijnhof may be difficult due to the door. (Wheelchair users in electronic chairs often take the bike lane when possible FYI.)

I carefully laid out this tour to include my favorite places in Amsterdam and food that wasn’t too far from the route.

If you struggle a bit with long distances, I include many stop off points and cafes. Similarly, you’ll find many benches along the main areas.  Similarly, if you do this walking tour of Amsterdam with the help of public transit, it will cut the distance in half. 

NOW PRESENTING: Your one day in Amsterdam walking tour! (Map at the bottom)

Overview for your itinerary for one day in Amsterdam:

• Views of beautiful canal houses
• Local breakfast
• Canal cruise in Amsterdam
• Historic canal house / hidden church
• Red light district
• HIdden historic garden
• Famous cookies
• Flower market
• Albert Cuypmarkt Market
• Museumplein
• Anne Frank House

Amsterdam is generally safe although pickpocketing is an issue in very touristy areas (especially the Red Light District), so avoid having your phone out if you don’t need it out.   If you prefer a longer itinerary with a slower pace,  click for my three day Amsterdam .

PART I OF YOUR ONE DAY IN AMSTERDAM; CENTRE IN AMSTERDAM (2.1KM)

8am: start off at centraal station, views & breakfast.

Start off Centraal Station by crossing the road towards the  most photographed canal houses  in Amsterdam.  (Pro tip:  the Pancake Bakery  near Centraal Station is super touristy with long lines, so skip it)

You have lots of great options for breakfast in Amsterdam.  Then have breakfast at  Omelegg , one of my favorite breakfast places in Amsterdam for an American style breakfast.

If you’re feeling like you want to indulge your sweet-tooth, lots of people are obsessed with  De Bakkerswinkel  for fresh made pastries at one of Amsterdam’s best bakeries.  For a Kiwi-style vegan breakfast, I recommend  Bakers and Roasters .

9AM: CANAL CRUISE IN AMSTERDAM

Go on a canal boat cruise and if you’re craving a bit more adventure, rent your own boat (which is how the locals do it).  There’s nothing like seeing Amsterdam from the canals.

If you happen to have more than one day in Amsterdam, renting your own boat is so much fun although you’ll need a bit more time if you decide to do so, so you might need to adjust this schedule a bit.  Renting your own boat is about 50 per hour, so it’s worth it for a larger group of 4+.

You’ll have many canal tour options from Centraal Station, but most canal cruises in Amsterdam are pre-recorded.  It’s much more fun to do a canal cruise where you have a live tour guide showing you the sites and history, so check before you book your canal book cruise.

10AM: OUR LADY OF THE ATTIC

Head to my favorite museum in Amsterdam,  Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lady in the Attic).  If you’re a history or architecture buff, this is where to come (except on Sundays when they open at 1pm).

The idea of going to a converted church does not sound cool, but you’ll walk past one of the house that holds this museum…and you’ll realize that the creator of this hidden church (a fascinating part of Dutch history) sewed together three of these houses and hid a decently sized church in the attic of all three.

All canal houses have been kept in as close to original condition as possible, so you’ll learn not only about the history of the Netherlands, but also about Dutch architecture, and what life was like in the Golden Age of the Netherlands.

11AM: RED LIGHT DISTRICT IN AMSTERDAM, BEGIJNHOF, & BREAK

You’re probably already starting to see the the red light windows as you walk towards the heart of the Red Light District  in Amsterdam, which is all around the Old Church (Oude Kerk).

For the real heart of it, you’ll need to squeeze down  Trompettersteeg .  If you really want to see Dam Square, you can pass by it on your way out of the Red Light District. (Is before lunch too early to visit the Red Light District in Amsterdam?  Probably , but if you go at night, it’s quite crowded although you’ll see the iconic red lights.  If you have one day in Amsterdam, seeing it ONCE is enough.)

For the record, you cannot take any photos in the Red Light District of Amsterdam .

Stay walking along Nes or Oudezijds Voorburgwal and find the door to the  Begijnhof  (next to the American Book Centre).  Here, you’ll find the most famous and touristic hofje in Amsterdam.

Hofjes were closed communities from the middle ages where seniors and/or widows would live together as a community.  However, the Begijnhof functioned almost like a nunnery, only for devout women, although women could leave the order to marry.  Click to read about more secret spots in Amsterdam!

Stop for a coffee at  de koffiesalon spui  and try a famous/delicious warm chocolate cookie at  Van Stapele Koekmakerij  to hold you over until lunch .( Note: Don’t eat lunch yet. I got you covered and you’ll want to be hungry for lunch!)

Bloemenmarkt.  

Walk towards the flower market although be warned that not all flowers can brought home with you depending on where you live ( Americans: ask the vendors for which tulips are allowed to be brought back into the US. )

That said, you should be waiting until it’s getting cold to plant your tulips, so if you’re visiting in the peak of summer, it’s less likely that your tulips will pop up every year.

IF YOU DREAM OF SEEING THE TULIPS IN THE FIELD, YOU CAN SEE THEM IN THE TULIP FIELDS IN THE NETHERLANDS FOR FREE ON ANOTHER DAY. CLICK FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO SEE THE TULIPS!

Take the 24 tram towards the Heineken Experience (Marie Heinekenplein stop).

If you’re keen on doing your own self-guided walking tour instead,  walk towards the 7 Bridges look out spot for that iconic Amsterdam photo.

Avoid Vijzelstraat. Take Reguliersgracht until you pass the Heineken Experience.  (The map of the walking tour at the very bottom describes this route for your perfect one day in Amsterdam!)

PART II: DE PIJP (1KM)

You’ll be close to the Heineken Experience.  I generally don’t recommend visiting the Heineken Experience as there’s so much good beer in Amsterdam and paying 20+ euros is crazy to me when you can pay 5 euros for a tour and a beer at my favorite  Amsterdam brewery .

(Take a picture outside and get a Heineken at a nearby bar if you’re really excited about trying it in Amsterdam.  Enjoy your 16 euros extra.)

Now you’re in De Pijp, one of the best neighborhoods in Amsterdam. If it’s any day besides Sunday, I recommend getting cash out and eating the fresh made food along the  Albert Cuypmarkt,  one of Amsterdam’s largest neighborhood markets.

Definitely browse the market for delicious food (this is why I made you wait to eat!), souvenirs, and spices. 

Keep an eye out for  Surinamese Roti , Indonesian food, haring stands, and freshly made Stroopwafel.  You’ll want cash for this market!   Be sure to get a FRESH stroopwafel for dessert, which is made in front of you by the vendors here are famous for stroopwafel.

If you’re looking to sit down or it’s a Sunday, head to  Bazar ,  The Butcher , or my favorite Indonesian restaurant in De Pijp,  Sari Citra  for a reasonable relaxed meal.

Ferdinand Bolstraat is the heart of De Pijp, however you’ll find lots of cute streets off of it, including the  Wake me up when I’m famous Bench .  Museumplein is a 7 minute walk from Marie Heinekenplein or only 500m from the Wake me up when I’m famous bench.

PART III: MUSEUMPLEIN

2pm: art museum of your choice.

Walk over to Museumplein to see the iAmsterdam  sign as well as the  Van Gogh museum , the  Stedelijk museum  for modern art, and the RIjksmuseum.

The  Rijksmuseum  requires at least three hours if you want to visit although the Stedelijk museum/Van Gogh museum can be done in two hours if you’re fast.

Book your tickets in advance for the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh museum to avoid lines.  I’ll assume you’re going to one of these.

4/5PM: VONDELPARK

Before it gets dark, walk 1km to  Vondelpark  to enjoy Amsterdam’s most beautiful park!  If you want more time, you’ll need a bit less time at the art museum. If you want to stop for a drink, I recommend the Blauwe Theehuis , which also happens to be one of the best spots for PokemonGo in Amsterdam.

It’s 1.5km to the Foodhallen, so you can take the tram/bus from Vondelpark to the Foodhallen. Alternatively, you can walk.

​5:30/6pm: Dinner time at the Foodhallen

Head to the  Foodhallen  for an dinner (or early dinner) in one of many booths.  I personally love Mazza although I’m also a huge fan of the Bitterballen bar (very Dutch).  The booths change often although make sure that someone saves your table while you get food, otherwise your table will be gone when you get back.

You can sample good Amsterdam local brews, including Two Chefs and Bird, at the bar here.  If you only have 24 hours in Amsterdam, you need to try some of the fantastic  craft beer in Amsterdam , not just Heineken. From here, take the tram towards the stop  Westermarkt .

8PM: ANNE FRANK HOUSE

The Jordaan  is one of my favorite areas of Amsterdam.  Before you explore the Jordaan, you’ll want to visit the Anne Frank House.  It’s a little known fact that the Anne Frank House is open late on Saturdays.

Take advantage of the lull in the crowds if you don’t have tickets and get in line at the  Anne Frank House . People usually start leaving around 7-8pm, especially on Saturdays.

Alternatively if you reserve your Anne Frank tickets online (which is best), you’ll be going to the Anne Frank House in the morning and early afternoon. (The Anne Frank museum has changed their policy and it is ticket-only in the morning, so no point in lining up early).

You may want to reverse this Amsterdam itinerary depending on your Anne Frank ticket time.  That said, if you’re not a museum person, I’d choose between the Anne Frank Museum and the Rijksmuseum. If you only have one day in Amsterdam, use the time to use the Jordaan instead.

If you want to stop off at a great cafe after, I recommend  Struik  for hipster vibes,  Cafe Chris  if you’re into dive bars, and  Mazzo  if you’re into nice wine bars.

9-11PM ENJOY THE JORDAAN AT NIGHT

Walking along the canals  in Amsterdam is still one of my favorite things, so after you leave the Anne Frank house, walk along Prinsengracht.

Stop off at  Winkel43  for the best apple pie in Amsterdam or  Monte Pelmo IJS  for the best ice cream in Amsterdam for dessert.  There’s tons of cosy brown bars in this area as well as  hidden hofjes , but all are closed to the public at night.

I recommend getting a  craft beer  or a traditional drink (perhaps some  jenever ) at the beautiful  Papeneiland Cafe .  If you want to wander, head towards the tip of the Jordaan towards Palmgracht and Brouwersgracht for the architecture.  ​  If you’re tired after this one day in Amsterdam,  I hope that you enjoyed this walking tour of Amsterdam! 

LOVE TRYING NEW DRINKS? WE TRIED OUT ALL THE DUTCH LIQUORS THAT WE COULD FIND.   READ ABOUT 13 INTERESTING DUTCH LIQUORS AND SPIRITS TO TRY IN THE NETHERLANDS.

More into beer  we’re rounded up the best beer in amsterdam and where to drink the best beer in amsterdam.  (proost y’all.), late night in amsterdam.

Well, you have one day in Amsterdam and possibly one night in Amsterdam, you might as well party it up.  If you’re still in the mood for an artisanal cocktail after the Anne Frank House, head to  Vesper  if they’re open.

Otherwise, head back along Haarlemmerdijk to find the  buzzing coffeeshops  (not coffee) and late night snacks.  It’s about 1km from Papeneiland back to Centraal Station.

If you’re looking to go out at a nightclub in Amsterdam, you can head to Leidseplein for the biggest clubs in Amsterdam.  Things don’t usually get started until at least midnight/1am, so take the time to relax for the night if I haven’t exhausted you yet. 😉

If you’re looking for a more relaxing evening with more walking, I always love walking down Herengracht and Keizersgracht late at night. It’s so quiet and relaxing.

Good things to know about going out in Amsterdam:   Most things in the outer neighborhoods will be closed besides bars and maybe a late night food place.   Centre will be going ALL night.  This is when the Red Light District is the most crowded, but it’s really best to go in the daytime if you’re set on visiting the Red Light District in Amsterdam.

Public transit  mostly  shuts down after midnight, however there are night buses that run late although they cost considerably more than the normal bus.  Plan ahead before you go out and avoid taxis if possible as they’re known to scam tourists.

Sleep (a little)

Depending on when your trip is, be aware that Airbnb is getting much more regulated in Amsterdam and during high season, finding an affordable hotel close to your dates is more difficult. I recommend booking your hotel/hostel ahead.

If you’re looking for something cheap and central, consider staying at  Stayokay Hostel . For a mid-range hotel, I recommend  the Student Hotel , which has a great design and comfy beds. Those looking for a boutique hotel will love  Pulitzer Hotel  with a central location composed of 20 typical Amsterdam canal houses.  For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at the  Conservatorium Hotel .

THE NEXT MORNING…

The next day, get up for another good breakfast (somewhere different) and say goodbye to Amsterdam!   (If you prefer a slower pace, this itinerary for one day in Amsterdam is definitely doable within 36 hours in Amsterdam.)

END OF YOUR WALKING TOUR OF AMSTERDAM  AND TOTAL MILAGE ROUND-UP FOR THIS FREE WALKING TOUR OF AMSTERDAM…

• Walking only self-guided itinerary: 11.5km or 7 miles.
• One day in Amsterdam with taking public transit:  6.6km or 4 miles.

Click for your free map of this walking tour!

I really hope you come back for longer.  I think that  three days in Amsterdam  is perfect and you can read my itinerary for it. Similarly, consider taking a day trip to another city in the Netherlands . 

HAVE YOU BEEN TO AMSTERDAM? LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THOUGHT OF THIS ONE DAY IN AMSTERDAM ITINERARY!

Please share if you found this self guided walking tour of Amsterdam helpful!

IF YOU NEED ANY MORE TIPS FOR AMSTERDAM…

• DO’S & DON’TS OF AMSTERDAM FOR TOURISTS
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING AMSTERDAM
• THREE DAYS IN AMSTERDAM ITINERARY 
• WHAT TO PACK FOR AMSTERDAM
• 20 foods to try in the Netherlands
• A shorter walking tour of the Jordaan (2 hours)

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

October 27, 2017 at 11:55 pm

Thank you for this! Amsterdam has been on my list for awhile and my favorite way to explore the city is on foot and I love that this helps me see as much as possible in the most efficient way! Definitely saving this post for when I go!

October 28, 2017 at 9:14 am

Love this! Amsterdam is one of my must see places and this walking tour and map is perfect! Thanks for all the excellent tips.

October 28, 2017 at 3:26 pm

Wonderful timing, I am off to Amsterdam in a few weeks and this is an absolutely perfect itinerary. I also really appreciate the wheelchair information which is so often left out of these itinerary type of posts.

October 28, 2017 at 4:20 pm

This is marvellous! I’d use this guide even for more than a day! Would you suggest visiting Amsterdam in February or is it too cold? (I’m from Italy 😀 )

October 28, 2017 at 4:32 pm

Hi Veronica, Thanks for reading. I think February is a good time if you don’t want too many crowds, but it is a bit chilly (maybe 5 C) with a bit of wind chill. If you dress warmly, it will still be beautiful. I think in December/January is better as you can see the Light Festival. 🙂

October 28, 2017 at 11:16 pm

This is so great! I had a 24-hour layover in Amsterdam a couple of years ago and would have done much better with this itinerary! Just another reason to go back and stay longer 🙂

October 29, 2017 at 12:30 am

This is fantastic! Amsterdam is on my must-return-to list because I barely had any time last time and missed out sooo much! I didn’t know the Anne Frank house was open so late. I bet the red light district is… different during the day? Or not hugely? Totally saving this for my next visit anyway! Mmm, stroopwafel…

November 6, 2017 at 4:38 pm

The lights are red, but beyond that it’s just less crowded…and I guess if you’re going to just to see what legalized prostitution looks like, it’s the same 24/7 without the bachelor parties. 😉

October 30, 2017 at 9:53 pm

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in Europe. I love its brick buildings, open skyline, rich history, and relaxed, easy going attitude towards life. The canals of Amsterdam are incredibly beautiful, and there’s nothing like seeing the city from a boat.

January 26, 2018 at 9:44 am

Can you email me the map please

April 2, 2018 at 12:05 pm

What a great and fantastic walking tour guide – thanks so much!

May 1, 2018 at 3:41 pm

I can’t find the downloadable maps for 24 hour s and 3 days in Amsterdam, they seem perfect for my trip coming up in a couple of days… can you email them to me? Or help me locate them? Also is there anything special to do or to look out for on 3-5 may for liberation and remembrance days? Thank you so much!!

May 1, 2018 at 4:55 pm

Hi Sasha, apologies about the maps. They’re up now. I don’t understand why they went missing from the post, but you can click the points to save them on your Google Maps! I’m working at making a printable version of this!

You should find some parades around the Netherlands for Liberation Day and there’s two minutes of silence. I’m pretty sure there’s a couple events around Amsterdam, notably in Dam Square each year for Liberation day, but the 5th of May isn’t a public holiday every year, only every couple years. As a result, I’d check for events on May 4th for this year.

May 18, 2018 at 10:48 am

Thank you so much for all of this information. I had a few hours free on a business trip yesterday and followed most of the tour as recommended. I saw so much that I would not have seen without it and really appreciated a local’s recommendation. I especially loved the Van Stapele Koekmakerijto cookie shop and would never have found that without your advice! I brought a tin of them home for my family and it was a lovely trip and nice souvenir. Thanks again!

May 18, 2018 at 10:50 am

Dear Marlene, Thank you so much for your feedback and for sharing your experience! I’m so glad that you enjoyed my walking tour. 🙂 I hope your family loves the cookies!

Best, Karen

June 12, 2018 at 11:48 pm

This looks great. We will be in Amsterdam August 14, 2018 and plan to take this walking tour. I would appreciate a detailed map of the tour if you can.

James & Esther

June 12, 2018 at 11:58 pm

Hi James, you’ll find a detailed map in the post. Please check it over.

August 17, 2018 at 8:25 pm

this sounds great! but I’m not able to download the map

August 17, 2018 at 8:28 pm

Hopefully this link works: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1zq_RkNfNlJJgNmnSM0AjYafSZ0k&usp=sharing

August 24, 2018 at 3:16 pm

YES! it works, thank you!

September 11, 2018 at 2:07 pm

Dear Karen, I could not thank you more for this and others articles. I spent a perfect day in Amsterdam wandering the city with your map and advice. Now I am studying the Paris part as I am going to visit it soon for the first time.

I’ve read a lot of travel blogs in my life, and your’s is the best.

January 8, 2019 at 6:39 pm

Hello Karen. I’m so glad your site came up when my daughter and I googled self guided walking tours in Amsterdam! We didn’t follow your itineraries to the letter, but made good use of your tips and suggestions for places that are a bit off the usual tourist track. Thanks to you we saw the wonderful church in the attic, my daughter had what she claims is the best chocolate cookie EVER, we ate bitterballen at the Foodhallen (can’t say we liked them much, but it was an experience!), watched a cat run up a tree in the Karthuizerhofje and my daughter even caught a few Pokemon. Thank you!

January 8, 2019 at 7:26 pm

Hi Amanda and Katie, I am so glad to read your comment, which is why I started blogging in the first place. I just love inspiring people to see somewhere different. I don’t expect everyone to follow my itineraries (for Amsterdam or elsewhere) exactly, but I know that some people like having a set plan. I have to agree with your daughter about the cookies! 🙂

August 13, 2019 at 7:48 pm

Thanks so much for such a fantastic walking tour. I followed it today and what an amazing way to see the city. My little legs took me the whole way and then some. There are some things I would have missed without this guide so I’m very grateful. Thanks for the food tips too.

August 20, 2019 at 5:46 pm

Your one day tour is pretty much what I’ve been planning for my day at Amsterdam, but, as you said, I have to plan all the way based on Anne Frank House ticket book time. So… do you think if I do the reverse mode of your tour it will work well? One more question: my day will be a sunday and Albert Cuyp Market will be closed. Where do you recommend me to eat any good stroopwaffle? Thanks a lot for your great tips.

August 21, 2019 at 1:12 am

It should work well in reverse. There are sometimes other markets in Amsterdam on Sunday, usually in the Westergasfabriek, but you should check the schedule. You can try van Wonderen Stroopwafels otherwise!

January 6, 2020 at 2:43 am

I was wondering if there is a printable version yet. I don’t think I will have wi-if while we will be traveling.

January 6, 2020 at 1:42 pm

You’ll have wifi without an issue in Amsterdam.

[…] Don’t pay for a tour when you can take in the city on foot.  You can download my one day itinerary here, which covers most of the Amsterdam landmarks, so if you’re not keen on going outside, you can still cover a lot of ground. Click for the self-guided walking tour of Amsterdam. […]

[…] If you’re in Amsterdam for only two days, you can pick two of the days to follow and I have a one day itinerary for Amsterdam if you’re in a rush. […]

[…] a bit outside of the center. I’d love to get a feel for other parts of the city. Karen from Wanderlusting K has some good tips about what to see in Amsterdam in a day. She is an expat living in the […]

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One Day in Amsterdam Self-Guided Walking Tour

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Amsterdam is a city that is both historic and progressive, elegant and bawdy. There are 17th century canals and trendy cannabis coffee shops. Grand, gabled houses line the streets, while a neon glow emanates from the Red Light District. Bicycles outnumber the human population and the long history of beer is being revolutionized by craft brewers.

However, it is possible to get a vibe of the city in one day – and an Amsterdam walking tour is a fantastic way to do it. To help fellow travelers, we designed a One Day in Amsterdam Self-Guided Walking Tour to more than 18 of the best sights. Plus, an Amsterdam Walking Tour Map is included!

Amsterdam Walking Tour

Sightseeing in Amsterdam is best done on foot – and our free walking tour highlights more than 18 attractions. To see the best sights, our walking tour of Amsterdam covers some ground and includes a little zigging and zagging. Don’t worry, we created an easy-flowing Amsterdam tour that is perfect for first-time visitors and those who have yet to discover all the prime sights.

What’s Provided in the Free Amsterdam Walking Tour Self-Guided

Our Self-Guided Amsterdam Walking Tour includes everything you need to make your way through the city!

For our Amsterdam Walking Tour Free Guide, we highlight individual sights, provide step-by-step walking directions to each sight and include two Amsterdam Maps. One being an interactive Attractions in Amsterdam Map, the other is an Amsterdam PDF Map.

You will also find our top Walking Tour Amsterdam Tips and more suggestions of things to do in one day throughout the article.

One Day in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Planning what to see in Amsterdam is no easy task – especially if you are limited to one day. Whether you have two hours or an entire day, you can use our outlined Amsterdam tour.

The main route of our walking tour in Amsterdam circles the city in a loop, taking in the major sights in a relatively short amount of time. However, those with more time to explore can use our ‘ If You Have Time ’ suggestions to complete a full day of sightseeing.

If You Have Time: Amsterdam in One Day Travel Tips

With our tips, visitors don’t need to worry about what to see in Amsterdam in a Day – we’ve got it covered! Throughout our Amsterdam Tour, we offer ‘ If You Have Time ’ advice regarding nearby sights and alternate routes to our Amsterdam Walking Tour.

We include both museums that require a ticket (or are included with the Amsterdam City Card) and other free sights, too. 

Travelers will find our suggestions of places to visit in Amsterdam in 1 day are ideally intertwined into a walking tour. Plus, we provide detour directions to the alternate Amsterdam walking routes.

Pro Tip : Even if you are short on time, we recommend reading through the ‘ If You Have Time ‘ sections. There may be detours you want to make during your walking tour in Amsterdam. 

Amsterdam Sightseeing Card

If visiting the museums and other attractions in Amsterdam that are listed in our ‘ If You Have Time ’ sections, consider purchasing a Amsterdam City Card . It includes entry into many recommended museums (excluding the Anne Frank Museum). Plus, free public transportation and a canal boat ride, which is a beautiful way to end your one day in Amsterdam!

Walking Tour Amsterdam FAQs

Before you begin your Amsterdam City Tour, we are answering a few frequently asked questions.

Is This Really a Free Walking Tour Amsterdam?

Yes! And we think it is the best free walking tour in Amsterdam! Featuring top Amsterdam sights, our route is easy to follow and includes walking directions and maps. For each stop, we include a snippet of information and sometimes a link to more information.

How Long Does Our Amsterdam Walking Tour Take?

This Free Amsterdam Walking Tour is Self-Guided – so how long it takes totally depends on you! Those who follow our Amsterdam tour as it is written should allow at least 2 hours to complete the loop.

Still, visitors who have a full day in Amsterdam can use our If You Have Time tips to fill their tour with Amsterdam Old Town sightseeing.

Pro Tip : If entering all of the suggested museums in this self-guided Amsterdam city walk, a City Card will save you money!

Where does the Amsterdam One Day Walking Tour Start? 

We start this Amsterdam Walking Tour from Central Station – which is great for travelers coming to the city for just one day. However, we designed the Amsterdam walking tour route in loop, so you can actually start it from anywhere along it.

Using our Amsterdam walking map, simply find the sight closest to your location – and set off on the tour from there! 

Do I Need an Amsterdam Tour Map?

For self guided walking tours in Amsterdam, it is best to have a map with attractions – either online or in hand. Don’t stress though – we make Amsterdam touring easy with multiple maps and links to Google, too.

We also provide two overview maps – and interactive version, as well as a printable map – of our free tour Amsterdam. Both feature the entire route of our Amsterdam walk with tourist attractions marked. 

The interactive Amsterdam Sightseeing Map indicates each stop, as well as nearby sights. The provided printable Amsterdam Sights Map with Walking Tour Route offers a general overview of the route. 

Where Can I Get an Amsterdam Tourist Map?

Although we include several free Amsterdam walking tour maps, visitors can also pick up an Amsterdam city map from the tourist information office. There is a VVV Office in front of Central Station.

Are There Guided Amsterdam Walking Tours?

Of course there are guided tours in Amsterdam – but not by us. While we believe our self-guided option is the best walking tour Amsterdam, those who prefer a guide lead the way will find ample sightseeing tours to book. We highlight some of the top-rated guided tours later.

Are there Free Guided Tours Amsterdam?

Visitors who want to join a guided Amsterdam free walking tour have a few to choose from in the city. However, it is important to understand that the guides expect – and hopefully deserve – tips. Therefore, they are not really free tours. That said, we mention popular guided free walking tours of Amsterdam at the end of the article.

What Will I Need for this Amsterdam Walk?

Fortunately, not much is needed to complete our outlined city tour. We provide all of the information for where to walk in Amsterdam – you just have to follow along. However, we have a few tips on how to prepare for sightseeing Amsterdam on foot. 

Data Connection 

Perhaps the most important thing to have for Amsterdam city walks is an internet connection. Visitors can print our Amsterdam Sightseeing Map PDF, but a WiFi Connection is necessary to access this article while touring the city. Furthermore, the interactive maps links will only work with connectivity.

We use a GlocalMe Mobile WiFi Hotspot to stay connected abroad. Top features are that eSIM data packages can be purchased online and it allows up to 10 devices to be connected at one time. That is really great for couples, families or groups of friends traveling together. 

Amsterdam Walking Shoes

The city is fairly flat, but walking in Amsterdam is so much better if you wear comfortable travel shoes . I like to wear these Columbia Shoes and Kris prefers Merrell Trail Shoes .

Capture the Sights in Amsterdam

Visitors can really take in the beauty while walking Amsterdam canals and streets. In order to truly capture these sights, we recommend using an actual camera . We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens . It’s a great set-up and the bundle comes with loads of accessories, making it an excellent valve camera for traveling .

Weather Gear and Day Bag for your Amsterdam Tour

Amsterdam walks are most comfortable if you are prepared for the elements. Depending on the season, a packable raincoat or travel umbrella might be a good idea. In summer, don’t forget sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat . Finally, bring a refillable water bottle and the perfect day pack to carry everything in!

Planning Your Amsterdam Trip

There is a lot more that goes into planning a trip to Amsterdam – from what to see to things to eat to where to stay. We have created several travel guides that will help make your trip planning a breeze. 

• 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• Must-Eat Dutch Foods
• Best Amsterdam Craft Beer
• Day Trip from Amsterdam to Haarlem
• How To Spend Christmas in Amsterdam
• Things To Do in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Pro Tip:  Get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Amsterdam by utilizing our Trip Planning Printables !

Self-Guided Free Walking Tour Amsterdam Sights

Okay, lace up your shoes and grab your camera – it’s time to go see Amsterdam! Start your one day in Amsterdam at Central Station. MAP . 

#1 Amsterdam Central Station

Central Station was opened in 1889 and today 200,000 passengers pass through daily. From the north side of Amsterdam Central Station, ferries (which are free) transport passengers to the northern neighborhoods.

Sights in the northern neighborhoods include the A’DAM Lookout Tower (free with the City Card ), the NDSM artistic district and a few of our favorite Craft Beer Bars. Week-long river excursions – like the Amsterdam to Budapest Cruise we took – also depart near Amsterdam Centraal.

Pro Tip: Access the north side of the station via the Cuyperspassage – a tunnel of 80,000 Delft Blue tiles. The famous Netherlands tiles are a must-see, so we recommend ducking into the tunnel on your Amsterdam sightseeing route.

The south main entrance of Central Station opens onto the most historic part of the city. Across and slightly to the left is the towering Basilica of Saint Nicholas. The church was built in the late 1800s and is free to visit.

If You Have Time : Pop into St. Nicholas Basilica for a quick look around the magnificent interior. For visitors using this guide for a short, 2-hour Amsterdam walking tour, consider ending at the church.

Central Station to Damrak Directions: Walk straight away from the front of Central station onto the west side of Damrak Street. Map & Directions .

Damrak is the main north-south route from Central Station to Dam Square. Once a busy waterway of Amsterdam, the Damrak Canal was filled in to make a street in 1672. The remaining small body of water, Natte Damrak, was once a thriving harbor. Buildings open directly onto the water for quick unloading of goods.

Pro Tip : Many of the city boat tours depart from Natte Damrak harbor. We offer more information about canal cruises in Amsterdam at the end of the post.

Most of the buildings along Damrak were built from the 18th to 20th century – and more than 20 of them are designated as Royal Monuments. The large brick building, Beurs van Berlage, was once the stock exchange and is now a concert hall.

Directions from Damrak to Nieuwendijk:  Stay on Damrak to the south end of Beurs van Berlage. On your right, you will see the Old Amsterdam Cheese Shop, stop in for a free sample! After a few nibbles, use the next alley on your right – the elegant Beurspassage – to cut across to Nieuwendijk.

At the end of the lavish passageway is Nieuwendijk. Turn right to the first store on your right, Van der Linde Ice Cream Shop. There will likely be a line, but it moves fast, so pop in for a scoop of their one-and-only flavor: Mr. Whippy Vanilla. It’s one of the top things to eat in Amsterdam! With cone in hand, walk south on Nieuwendijk. Map & Directions . 

#3 Nieuwendijk

Running parallel to Damrak is Nieuwendijk. A pedestrian-only shopping street, it is one of the most historic places to walk in Amsterdam. The narrow, brick lane is home to 200 shops – most of which cater to tourists – and nearly 100 of the structures are labeled as national heritage sites. 

Directions from Nieuwendijk to Dam Square: Walk south to Dam Square. Map & Directions . 

#4 Dam Square

Dam Square is in the historical center of Amsterdam and is located at the original Amstel River Dam, which was built in 1270. A major sightseeing stop on our Amsterdam city walk route, many notable buildings and monuments are on the square. They include the Royal Palace (built in 1655 as City Hall and converted to a royal residence in 1808); the De Nieuwe Kerk (New Church); and the National Monument pillar honoring the victims of World War II (built in 1956).

Pro Tip : For a free view of Dam Square from above, go to the 3rd floor of the Peek & Cloppenburg Department Store.

If You Have Time : Facing the front of De Nieuwe Kerk, take the narrow passageway, Eggertstraat, around the east side of the church into an ancient part of the city. Here you will find De Drie Fleschjes (Three Little Bottles). The classic Amsterdam tavern is a jenever bar (a local Amsterdam gin) that dates to 1650. MAP & Directions .

Directions from Dam Square to De Oude Kerk: From the WWII memorial on Dam Square, walk north on Warmoesstraat to Wijde Kerksteeg and turn right to De Oude Kerk. Map & Directions .

#5 De Oude Kerk (The Old Church)

The 800-year-old De Oude Kerk  is Amsterdam’s oldest building and was consecrated in the year 1306. Built as a Catholic Church, it is now a Calvinist Dutch Reform Church, but the space is also used as an art gallery (and is free with the City Card).

If You Have Time : Just north of the Old Church along the canal is the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder – or Our Lord in the Attic Museum (included with the City Card). The hidden church and historic house museum are some of the most fascinating buildings in the city! MAP.

Directions from De Oude Kerk to the Red Light District: Walk around the church to the right, cross the canal on Oudekennissteeg and continue to the next canal and the Red Light District. Map Directions . 

#6 Red Light District

The Red Light District is an odd prostitution-as-a-tourist-attraction sight. During the day, most of the red-lit window boxes are vacant, with only a few occupied by young women dressed in lingerie. At night, it is a different scene. Sex shops and the Erotic Museum are also found along the street.

Pro Tip: To get a better understanding of the area, take a Red Light District Tour at Night , guided by a local.

Directions from the Red Light District to Chinatown: Walk north through the Red Light District to Korte Stormsteeg and go right to Zeedijk. Turn right and walk south into Chinatown. Map Directions . 

#7 Amsterdam Chinatown

A plethora of Asian (not only Chinese) shops and restaurants line Zeedijk , the main street through what is commonly called Chinatown. The He Hua Buddhist Temple, built in 2000, is a striking difference to the rest of the architecture found in Amsterdam Old Town.

Directions from Chinatown to De Waag: Continue south to Nieuwmarkt Square and De Waag. Map Directions . 

Dominating Nieuwmarkt Square is De Waag , The Weigh House. The building, which is Amsterdam’s oldest non-religious structure, dates to the 15th century and was once part of the city walls. Now, it houses a popular restaurant.

Directions from De Waag to Waterlooplein Market: Exit the square to the south on Sint Antoniesbreestraat; cross the canal to the Rembrandt House Museum (free with the City Card); turn right on Zwanenburgwal to the Waterlooplein Market. Map Directions . 

#9 Waterlooplein Market

The outdoor Waterlooplein is one of the best Amsterdam markets. It has more than 300 stalls selling second-hand clothing, antiques, tools, books and other trinkets. It originated as a Jewish bazaar in 1893 and was revitalized as a general market in the 1960s.

Directions from Waterlooplein Market to the National Opera and Ballet: At the end of the market, turn right on Waterlooplein Street and right again before the bridge to the waterfront National Opera & Ballet. Map & Directions . 

#10 National Opera & Ballet: Stopera

The National Opera and Ballet building, nicknamed the Stopera, fronts the Amstel River. The modern building, constructed in the 1980s, was met with many protests – thus the name: Stop the Opera… or Stopera for short. Many of Amsterdam’s iconic houseboats are moored along this section of the Amstel River.

Directions from Stopera to Blauwbrug: Walk a few steps south onto the ornate Blue Bridge, Blauwbrug. Map + Directions .

#11 Blauwbrug Blue Bridge

The ornate Blauwbrug is named for a blue wooden bridge that used to straddle the Amstel River on the same site. The current bridge dates to 1883 and features sumptuous decorations. Despite not being painted royal blue, the original name stuck.

Pause a moment on the bridge and take in the 360-degree views and surrounding Amsterdam sights: The National Opera and Ballet is directly north. Look for the Hermitage Amsterdam Museum to the southeast along the river. Directly south is the Magere Brug – or Skinny Bridge – which is a picturesque wooden drawbridge and one of our favorite bridges of the city.

If You Have Time : There are several Amsterdam sights near Rembrandtplein that are worth exploring. Two that we recommend are the Willet-Holtuysen Museum and Museum Van Loon, both of which are historically preserved canal houses (and both free with City Card). The Archives Museum (in the De Bazel Building) is also close by and offers excellent exhibits and free toilets, too. For a quick snack, pop into Eetsalon Van Dobben, an iconic Amsterdam sandwich shop – which offers a discount with the City Card. MAP .

Directions from Blauwbrug to Muntplein:  After taking in the sights from the Blue Bridge, walk straight ahead to Rembrandtplein to visit The Night Watch cast of characters and the Rembrandt statue. Continue following the road to Muntplein. Map & Directions .

#12 Munt Tower on Muntplein

This busy square is actually a bridge with six streets leading to it. The Munt Tower  (Munttoren), after which the square is named, was once part of the city gate. In the 17th century, the tower served as a mint.

Directions from Muntplein to the Flower Market: Continue south and turn right (west) on Singel to the Flower Market. Map Directions .

#13 Bloemenmarkt Floating Flower Market

The flower market stalls are housed on floating shops and sell everything from seeds to fresh cut flowers. The floating market is one of the most colorful (and fragrant!) spots in the city. 

If You Have Time : There are quite a few tourist attractions that are south of the canal ring that are included on many walking tours Amsterdam. If time allows, make your way to Vondelpark and Museumplein, where you will find the famous Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum before continuing your canal exploration on Prinsengracht. Map & Directions.

Directions from the Flower Market to the Canal Ring: Continue west to Koningsplein and turn left. Walk to Prinsengracht and turn right for an exceptional Amsterdam canal walk north along the ring. Map Directions . 

#14 Amsterdam Canal Ring

The network of canals in Amsterdam date to the 17th century and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The canal system is a unique urban city plan and one of the best places to walk in Amsterdam.

Once an integral part of the city’s development and maritime trade, the land around the canals was purchased by the city’s richest residents. Beautiful gabled houses were built, enhancing the appeal of the area.

Pro Tip : Most of these houses were built on wooden foundations. As they warp and rot, they are shifting and leaning. However, the homes that appear to be hovering over the street were purposely built to look bigger than they really were.

If You Have Time: Walk the two blocks of Leidsegracht, a quaint canal with lovely bridges. With ample time, make a detour to the secret Begijnhof Garden that conceals two hidden churches (and is accessed via an inconspicuous arched doorway). From the courtyard, continue to the Amsterdam Museum and take a peek into the Civic Guards Gallery exhibit, then exit through the leaning portal. Now, continue through the heart of the Nine Streets Neighborhood. Map Directions .

Directions to the Nine Streets: Walk north along the canal to the Nine Streets. Map Directions .  

#15 Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes)

A tiny neighborhood within Central Amsterdam, The Nine Streets are a 3-by-3 grid of picturesque lanes lined with boutique stores, high-end specialty shops and chic cafes. Originally occupied by tanners, many of the streets are named after animals.

The Nine Streets are one of the picturesque places to see on an Amsterdam 1 day city tour. 

Pro Tip : Those who wish to take a stroll through the Nine Street District can use these Map Directions for a quick 10-minute walk.

If You Have Time : The Houseboat Museum (included with the Amsterdam City Card) sits on the west side of the Prinsengracht Canal at Berensluis Street. Although quite small, it’s interesting to see how the inside of a houseboat is decorated! MAP .

Directions from the Nine Streets to Westerkerk: Continue walking north on Prinsengracht to Westerkerk. Map + Directions . 

#16 Westerkerk

The Westerkerk is a protestant church that was built between 1620 and 1631. The tower, which stands at 279 feet, is the tallest church tower in Amsterdam (and can be climbed, for a fee). Famous Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn is buried at the church and, in 1966, Queen Beatrix chose Westerkerk as the location of her wedding ceremony. 

Directions from Westerkerk to the Anne Frank House: Walk north along the Prinsengracht Canal to #263. Map Directions . 

#17 Anne Frank House

The story of Anne Frank is known worldwide. Her diary detailing her time spent hiding in an Amsterdam house was first published as Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl , in 1947. The house where she hid, numbered 263 Prinsengracht, is now a museum. The Anne Frank House Museum is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam.

Pro Tip : Tickets should be booked in advance; this museum is not included in the City Card. If tickets are unavailable, consider joining a private tour of Anne Frank sights – like this one – or a group guided Anne Frank Tour  to learn more about her life in Amsterdam.

If You Have Time: In the area, there are a few notable places to stop for food and drink. For a quick snack of classic Amsterdam fries, go to Heertje Friet; for a savory meal of Dutch-style pancakes, the Pancake Bakery is nearby; and for a locally produced beer, head to the charming Proeflokaal Arendsnest.

Directions from Anne Frank House to Jordaan Neighborhood: Walk north past the Anne Frank House to the first bridge, Leliegracht, and cross west into the Jordaan Neighborhood. Map & Directions .

#18 Jordaan Neighborhood

The working class settled Jordaan in the 17th century and attracted many people with political ideals. In the 1970s, gentrification overtook, attracting young professionals, well-to-do families and, along with it, trendy cafes, bars, galleries and specialty shops.

The inviting neighborhood is characterized by elegant houses, many of which hide hofjes (inner courtyards) and feature Gable Stones. The stone plaques displayed on the front were first used in the 16th century. They were a means of identifying the home’s inhabitants by depicting the owner’s profession or family name.

Pro Tip : For a unique way to experience the neighborhood, join a Food Tour of Jordaan .

If You Have Time : The Tulip Museum (free with the City Card) is one of the most surprisingly interesting museums in the city. The often humorous displays detail the history of tulips in the Netherlands – as well as the hysteria of the Golden Age Tulipmania. MAP . 

Directions from Jordaan District to Central Stations: Crisscross north through Jordaan and turn right (east) onto Brouwersgracht. Named in the late 1500s for the breweries that occupied the canal houses, it is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful Amsterdam canals. From here, it’s an easy walk back to Central Station. Map Directions .

Amsterdam, Netherlands Maps

Below find our two Walking Tour Amsterdam Maps. Use these maps of Amsterdam, Netherlands to route your way to our recommended walking tour sights. 

Amsterdam City Map: Interactive

Use this map of Amsterdam City Center that is interactive; click on any of the markers for more information and zoom in or out of the map for a better view.

The Amsterdam top sights listed in our walking tour are numbered; the blue markers show mentioned sights; the orange markers indicate the If You Have Time attractions. Use this online version of our Amsterdam, Holland Map. 

One Day in Amsterdam: Self-Guided Walking Tour Map

This is a printable map of Amsterdam that highlights the main route of our Amsterdam Walking Tour. To print this Amsterdam City Center Map, click on it and then right click outside of the map and select print! 

Top Amsterdam Sightseeing Tips

If you have just one day in Amsterdam to see the sights, these tips will help make the most of it!

What To Eat and Drink in Amsterdam

We absolutely love Netherlands food! Read our review of Dutch Cuisine , which includes everything from cheese to apple pie – and incredible dishes that tempt the palette. 

Having a locally brewed Heineken is an essential Amsterdam experience. The distinctive red star logo is plastered throughout the city and it’s sold just about everywhere. Even though Heineken is mass produced (and available in 192 countries), it wouldn’t be right to visit Amsterdam and not have one.

That being said, don’t miss out on the local craft beer, too. We have a complete guide to the Top Amsterdam Craft Beer Bars !

Stroll the Amsterdam Canals

Charming. Quaint. Lovely. Picturesque. Beautiful. The canals in Amsterdam are worthy of these overused adjectives and many more. It is not just the water flowing through the neighborhoods that make it so appealing. It is the allure of the entire scene: the floating houseboats, endless number of bridges and detailed architecture of the gabled houses.

We have had the pleasure of seeing it all with autumn leaves and in the winter decorated for the holidays. No matter the season – even if you only have one day in Amsterdam – take some time to savor the scenery and wander aimlessly.

Watch Out for Bikes in Amsterdam!

Bicycles are everywhere . As fans of pedal power, we were impressed with so many people using bikes as their method of transportation. We found it amazing how effortlessly people moved about on bicycles, even with the extra encumbrance of hauling groceries, musical instruments and multiple children.

Visitors need to be aware of bikes as much as cars. It is wise to always look both ways when crossing the street. And, for shutterbugs like myself, be aware of your surroundings when looking through your lens.

Amsterdam and Marijuana

The scent of potent pot is always floating in the air. Within 24 hours of being in Amsterdam, the smell becomes commonplace. In the Netherlands, the laws covering buying, possessing and using of small quantities of marijuana are complicated and evolving.

Individual joints are sold in coffee shops and can be purchased for about $5 USD. Some shops, with names like Coffeeshop Reefer, seem to be geared toward tourists who find the freedom to smoke up a novelty.  

The unfortunate side effect of tourists using drugs is that some idiots overdo it. We saw more than one foreigner dazed-and-confused and struggling to function in broad daylight. Not cool.

To Visit – or Not Visit – the Red Light District

We didn’t venture into the Red Light District after dark, However, even during the day, young women stood in the red-lit, glass-paneled box windows in their lingerie. The girls we saw looked bored, texting on their phones and not even looking into the crowd outside their windows.

The scene is not for everyone. Visitors using our One Day in Amsterdam Self-Guided Walking Tour who aren’t keen on walking through the Red Light District can simply skip it altogether.

More Amsterdam Walking Tours

We have outlined a free walking tour that is easy to follow and can be completed at any pace. However, there are many other routes that are led by knowledgeable, professional Amsterdam tour guides. 

Guided Walking Routes Amsterdam

Visitors can choose from a private walking tour with a local guide (like this one ) or join a small group for Amsterdam sightseeing. 

Find the guided Amsterdam walking tour you are looking for on this complete list of tours or join one of these highly rated tour recommendations in the next section.

Best Tours in Amsterdam: Themed Experiences 

We already mentioned a few Amsterdam guided tours that focus on a specific theme – like the Red Light District Night Tour , the incredibly popular Anne Frank Tour and the Jordaan Food Tour .

Looking for a different way to experience the city? There are a few more themed tours to consider. 

Alternative Tour of Amsterdam

A 2-hour walking tour that focuses on the city’s alternative side and subcultures. Find out more!

Amsterdam World War II and Jewish Quarter Tour

Learn about the city’s Nazi occupation and poignant memorials. Get the details!

Craft Beer Tour

Explore the city with a local Amsterdam tour guide while sipping craft beer. Book it now!

Cheese Tour Amsterdam

Join a Cheese Tasting Workshop in Central Amsterdam (accompanied by local beer or wine). Reserve your spot!

Guided Amsterdam Bike Tour

Pedal through the city streets like a local…with a local guide! The 2.5-hour tour features top sights, historic information and insider tips. Learn more about it!

Amsterdam Pub Crawl

Join jolly revelers on a nighttime pub crawl to the city’s best bars for a night of fun. Get the info!

Free Amsterdam Walking Tour

Visitors looking for a guided free tour have many options, including Sandemans New Europe Tours. Keep in mind, however, that these Free Walking Tours of Amsterdam are tip-based. For a truly Free Amsterdam Walking Tour, use our outlined guide above!

Amsterdam Sightseeing Options

There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to see the city – so we are sharing a few ideas of ways to explore, besides walking.

Sightseeing in Amsterdam by Boat, Bus or Bike

Too much walking? No problem. There are two great Amsterdam sightseeing options that don’t require nearly as much walking.

Amsterdam Bus and Boat Tour

The classic Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus moves tourists effortlessly through the streets to top attractions. The ticket is good for 24 hours – and the bus makes 11 stops around the city center. 

Bike Rental

An alternative is walking to city sights is to rent a bike! Visitors can discover the top places to visit in Amsterdam on two wheels at their own leisurely pace. 

Amsterdam Canal Boat

Unique to Amsterdam, the Canal Hop-On-Hop-Off Boat  transports visitors via the waterways.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Want to cruise the canal? In Amsterdam, there are plenty of options when it comes to taking a boat cruise on the canals! From sightseeing cruises to candlelit cruises to pizza cruises  to dinner cruises – pick one that fits your style! 

Best Amsterdam Day Trips

Have time to explore beyond the Amsterdam city limits? Consider taking a day trip to see the Famous Dutch Windmills and The Hague , the iconic Tulip Fields or to fairytale Bruges, Belgium .

For a great half-day trip from Amsterdam, hop on a train to Haarlem . 

Amsterdam Travel Advice

Amsterdam is a fascinating city and there is a lot to see and do! You can create your complete trip plan with our Amsterdam Itinerary – but for now we have a few essential tips to share.

Where To Stay in Amsterdam

Hotels in Amsterdam are expensive – so before you book your accommodations, use read our guide for Finding Cheap Hotels . 

During our trips to Amsterdam, we have stayed in a few different types of accommodations. For an Amsterdam layover hotel, Ibis Budget Amsterdam Airport, is just a short walk to the bus station where we could catch a ride into the city center.

More recently, we stayed at the stylish Volkshotel in Amsterdam South near the hip De Pijp District. Key features of the hotel were the creative rooms, co-working space and rooftop hot tubs!

More Amsterdam Hotels

For those who prefer staying closer to the city, there are many Amsterdam Hotels to choose from.  Search for availability at Park Mansion Centre Hotel  or The Toren and check out these other top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming trip

Hostels in Amsterdam

Budget travelers can find accommodations at Amsterdam Hostels, like  The Flying Pig Uptown ,  ClinkNOORD Hostel  or  Generator Amsterdam .

Amsterdam Airbnb

We’ve often found Airbnb Apartments to be cheaper (as well as more spacious and comfortable) than hostels or hotels. This is especially true if there are two or more people traveling together, but be sure to check all the additional fees!

Getting to Amsterdam

Amsterdam can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying, we are JetSetting Fools, after all! Direct flights to Amsterdam from the US are available from Seattle , San Francisco , NYC , Boston , Chicago , Washington DC ,  Philadelphia and Austin !

When we need to purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on flights to Amsterdam (AMS) on Skyscanner .

To get from city to city when flights are not possible, we rely on public transportation. In Europe, we use Rail Europe to find train tickets and our preferred bus company is FlixBus . We aren’t keen on driving abroad , but renting a car can save time and it allows for greater discovery. 

Amsterdam Travel Insurance

Trip insurance may help cover costs with cancelled plans or lost luggage , or when travelers become ill or get injured. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your Netherlands vacation, consider traveling protected with World Nomads . 

Start planning your trip to the Netherlands ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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How To Spend A Wonderful Three Days In Amsterdam

Posted on Published: December 4, 2020  - Last updated: December 22, 2023

Categories Europe , The Netherlands

So you have three days in Amsterdam!? There’s a lot to see and do in Amsterdam, but three days is surprisingly a decent amount of time to cover most of it.

Amsterdam is small and has a great public transport system to get you everywhere you need to.  My 3 days Amsterdam itinerary has a mix of unique experiences while still visiting some typical tourist must sees in Amsterdam.  

Also heads up, the third day on my Amsterdam itinerary is primarily outside. Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip, you may want to rearrange some activities.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Useful Amsterdam resources you might need

Attractions & Transportation :  IAmsterdamCard Tours :  Viator Flights :  Skyscanner  |  Expedia Hotels :  Booking Plan Your Perfect Trip : Downloadable Travel Planner

The I Amsterdam City Card

Gives you access to museums, attractions, & public transport in Amsterdam. Find Out More

Hotel Recommendation: CityHub Hostel

Before arriving for three days in Amsterdam, you need a place to stay. Unfortunately, the city isn’t exactly a cheap place to stay in.

There are a few hostels to stay at in the city at a cheaper rate. We opted to stay a bit further outside the city centre at the CityHub Hostel – and loved it ! It’s connected by 2 tram lines, and if we really wanted to, we could walk to the centre.  

This is not your typical hostel though. Instead of sharing a room with strangers, you sleep in a private pod! I don’t know about you, but I’d take a private pod over a room with strangers any day!  See updated prices.

More Amsterdam Hotel Recommendations

Best Location : Live like a local at a canal house at Mokum Suites . Each room is designed with you in mind, and you can’t get a better location than this in Amsterdam. Dam Square is only a 15 minute walk away and the nearest tram line is 250 metres, taking you anywhere you need to go! See room rates and availability .

Luxury Hotel : Live in luxury in Amsterdam at Hotel V Nesplein – a boutique hotel where no two rooms are the same. See room rates and availability .

Affordable Boutique Hotel : For a more affordable hotel option, stay closer to Vondelpark in Amsterdam at the De Ware Jacob Boutique Hotel . Every room is different and even offer family rooms to stay in! See room rates and availability .

Find other hotels to stay at in Amsterdam, click here .

My Hotel Amazon Must-Haves

How To Get Around Amsterdam

Amsterdam is such a walking ( and biking ) friendly city. Because you’re only here for three days, you probably won’t have access to a bike the whole time. So that leaves walking and public transit. 

Instead of walking everywhere, which can be pretty tiring, the city also has a wonderful tram system in place. The trams come so often, that you barely ever have to wait.

Another perk about taking the tram in Amsterdam are the info desks on each tram. I imagine these were set up because of the amount of tourists the city sees each year. Take advantage, they might give you some great local tips. Plus, if you’re lost, you know where to find someone to ask for help!  

For your three days in Amsterdam, do yourself a favour and  buy the 3 day pass . It will make your life so much easier. You can buy it when you arrive in the city, we bought ours at the train station.  Don’t forget, you have to scan when you get on AND off the tram.  

If you are interested in biking everyday, make that a priority when booking a hotel. There are some hotels/ hostels that you can directly rent a bike from, or even better, the rental may be included in your stay. 

You might want to get…

The I Amsterdam City Card  gives you access to museums, attractions, & public transport for three days in Amsterdam, and even bike rentals!

Make The Most Of Your Three Days In Amsterdam

Depending on how you’re arriving to the city, you want to try your best to make the most of the time you have. You want to be able to have a FULL three days in Amsterdam. 

We were arriving by train from Brussels so booked the earliest possible train . We woke up at 5:30 A.M. to get on a 7:00 A.M. train to the city. It was worth it because we arrived before 10:00 A.M. in Amsterdam.  

Keep in mind, if you are arriving this early, you most likely won’t be able to check into your hotel. So before you book a place, make sure they have luggage storage options. We were able to drop off our bags and had almost an entire day to tour and explore.

With that in mind, you also don’t want to book a hotel that’s too far outside the city centre , it should be fairly easy, and quick to get to. We did the same thing on our way back. After checkout we put our bags in storage at the hostel and had an entire day before leaving the city at 8:00 P.M. Is that three full days in Amsterdam or what!?

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Three Days In Amsterdam What To Do

Amsterdam itinerary day 1: arrive & explore.

Our first day in any new city is all about getting our bearings and seeing the must sees in Amsterdam.  So, our first day in Amsterdam we went on a walking tour and visited the Anne Frank House.

Three Days In Amsterdam Must-See: Anne Frank House

It doesn’t matter when you do this during your three days in Amsterdam, just as long as you do visit the Anne Frank House. This was at the top of my list for visiting Amsterdam so it was one of the first things I made sure to do. 

Anne Frank was only 15 years old when she died in Auschwitz in 1945. But, she left behind  her diary  where she journaled her time in hiding with her family in an annex in Amsterdam. That annex, where the family lived for 3 years, is open for visitors.  

Visiting the Annex is an incredibly emotional experience. The museum is very beautifully presented, it will take you about an hour to go through.  

You have to  book your tickets  at least two months in advance, especially if you’re travelling during high season. If your date is already booked, they reserve a few for walk-ins the day of, but you will have to wait in line. Sometimes you can also grab some last minute ones online as well.

Before Your Visit: Read The Diary of Anne Frank

Pop By The Cheese Museum For Free!

Across the canal from Anne Frank House is a small cheese shop. What’s more Dutch than cheese!?  They have cheese samples to try, and a mini (totally free!) museum all about cheese in the basement!  

This is a quick pit stop where you can also refuel before or after visiting Anne Frank House!

Go On A Walking Tour: 3 Days Amsterdam Itinerary

I typically go on a walking tour right away when I first arrive in any new city. I always recommend gong on one to get your bearings, learn a bit of history, and find all the local hang out spots. The timing didn’t work out to go as soon as we arrived, so I booked a free walking tour at 3:00 P.M. in the afternoon with  Sandeman’s . 

The tour is about 3 hours, but they take you to all the important must sees in Amsterdam. They’ll show you Dam Square with the Royal Palace, the Red Light District, Anne Frank’s House, and the prettiest canals in the city!

You might also be interested in reading…

Why I Love Free Walking Tours in Every New City I Visit

Get A Skyline View of Amsterdam

When you’re looking for skyline views of Amsterdam you’ll most likely come across the A’DAM Lookout. My opinion – skip it and go to the SkyLounge at the DoubleTree hotel for views instead.  Why? 

Well, the SkyLounge os 100% free to walk in and see the view. But you can also grab a table and admire the view for as long as you want. I recommend trying some local Dutch food, bitterballen, it’s DELICIOUS! You can make this experience as cheap or as expensive as you want! 

It’s also way closer than the A’DAM lookout swing. Not only is being closer better for skyline views, but you don’t have to get a ferry to cross the river to Amsterdam Noord. Plus, the swing only lasts a few seconds, you can stay at the SkyLounge all night if you wanted to.  

The SkyLounge also isn’t a bad spot to come if you’re looking for coffee with a view. Their cappuccino is a whopping €8.00, but they give you a free refill!

Stop For A Photo Op At The Gingerbread Houses

On your way back from the SkyLounge, stop at the gingerbread houses! Just a little heads up, we almost missed these as they weren’t what we was expecting from the pictures I’d seen.  In fact, we stopped here for a photo op, and then continued on our quest to find them… without realizing we already had.  

If you’re interested in more photo opportunities, stop at Herengracht, Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht canals. They’re apparently the prettiest canals in the city but to be honest, they all kind of looked the same to me. I don’t really know how these three were singled out as the prettiest.

Amsterdam Itinerary: Organized Tours

For more Amsterdam organized tours, click here .

Experience The Red Light District At Night

Quintessential Amsterdam is the Red Light District at night. You have to walk through it at least one night out of your two in Amsterdam. 

Our tour guide brought us through during the day and kind of freaked us out to walk through it at night. She mentioned that even a slight glance at a woman can warrant payment. So every time we walked through we mostly kept our heads down. 

But, you can’t experience this anywhere else. So, it’s worthwhile walking through, at least once.

Day Two In Amsterdam: Museums & Markets

Day two on your 3 days Amsterdam itinerary is all about visiting the different museums and getting in some local shopping, maybe even go on the hunt to find the perfect souvenir !

Best Breakfast Spot: The Smallest Teahouse in Amsterdam

Start your day off right by going to The Smallest Teahouse in Amsterdam . This was the highlight of our three days in Amsterdam. We came here for a traditional Dutch breakfast but you can also stop by for some afternoon tea and a slice of homemade apple pie.

The Best Places To Eat In Amsterdam You Won’t Want To Miss!

Visit One Of The Many Museums In Amsterdam

After a good traditional Dutch breakfast, visit one of the many museums in Amsterdam. There are countless museums that you have your fair share of options to choose from.  

Amsterdam’s most popular art museums are  Rijksmuseum , and  Van Gogh Museum . But you can also visit  Moco  for modern and surrealist art or  FOAM  for photography. If you’re looking for off the beaten path museums, Amsterdam also has something for you… 

For starters, you can delve into Amsterdam culture at the  Cannabis  or  Red Light Musuem  (good ones to visit at night). Visit  Our Lord in the Attic , a 17th century canal house with a church in the attic. Or  KattinKabinet , if you’re a real cat lover! 

We opted to visit  Rembrandt House , based off of several recommendations. The museum is actually Rembrandt’s house, so you see his bed, and his studio on top of his paintings. They’ll also give you a demonstration on how he did his work, and why it was so revolutionary for the times.

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Shopping Time in Amsterdam!

You can’t visit a new city and not leave time for some necessary local shopping. There are several markets you can visit in the city. The most famous is Albert Cuyp Market for their giant Stroopwafels at Rudi’s. This is also good spot to go for souvenir shopping! 

You should also visit the Waterplooin Market for some one of a kind finds. And of course, you come to Amsterdam and not stop by the floating flower market (the Bloemenmarkt).

They mostly sell tulip bulbs here that you can bring home to plant.   You don’t need to spend too much time at these, but they’re fun to walk through and who knows what you might find!  

If you aren’t interested in market shopping, go to De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets) and the Jordaan neighbourhood. These areas are the best place for antique, vintage finds in Amsterdam.

Skip Heineken, Go To A Local Brewery Instead

The Dutch beer scene is so much more than Heineken, plus you can get Heineken beer pretty much everywhere nowadays.  So instead of visiting the Heineken Experience, visit a microbrewery. These beers are unique to the Netherlands and definitely won’t find them back home. Plus, FYI they don’t even brew beer at the Heineken factory anymore. If you’re interested in learning about the brewing process, wait to go to Belgium to visit a brewery .  

We went to Brouwerij De Prael which is in the city centre. If you’re willing to travel a bit outside the city, there’s Brouwerij ‘t IJ where you can see De Gooyer windmill.

Build & Track Your Beer Journey

Refine your beer tasting palette with my digital and printable Beer Tasting Sheets to record and take notes on every new tea you try.

Day 3 In Amsterdam Itinerary: Outdoor Adventures

The last two days were all about enjoying the canal views, museums, and shopping, now it’s time to get out. Your third day in Amsterdam is all about exploring the outskirts of the city.  

As I mentioned, keep an eye on the weather for your three days in Amsterdam. If your first day there is the nicest one, I recommend swapping the days around. You’re going to want to have the nicest weather possible for this day.  

I say that now, but the weather is really hard to plan for in Amsterdam (we learned that the hard way). I recommend playing it safe and always bringing a packable rain jacket with you.

Do Yourself a Favour, Don’t Visit Amsterdam Without Rain Gear

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Must-Do Activity: Bike In Amsterdam

It doesn’t matter where you go, just as long as you rent a bike and experience some of this Amsterdam culture at least once during your 3 days in Amsterdam.  

If you aren’t comfortable biking in the city, head to Vondelpark or leave the city to see some windmills . We biked along the Amstel River to see TWO traditional Dutch windmills and a bit of the Amsterdam countryside.  

The bike ride was about 3 hours, so it’s a good half day activity. You can turn it into an entire day by biking to Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, a small town.

My Full Self Guided Bike Tour To See Dutch Windmills From Amsterdam

Or book an organized tour through Viator to see the Windmills

See more tours from Amsterdam here .

Visit Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s Central Park. If biking to the windmills is too far for you, this is a good option to bike through.  

If you don’t get a chance to bike through the park, I highly recommend spending some time walking through . It’s the perfect city break! There are a few restaurants to stop for lunch in the park as well!

The ultimate digital travel bundle: travel planner & daily travel journal

My digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation. And keep track of your travels every day with my digital and printable travel journal .

See the bundle on Esty .

Skip A Canal Tour Instead Visit The Houseboat Museum

I haven’t mentioned going on a canal tour yet in our three day Amsterdam itinerary, and that’s because we didn’t go on one. Canal tours are perfect for a different perspective of the city, but I’d prefer walking tours to get more information about the city. 

I tried to find a good tour company, but felt they were all over-priced just because they can be. I’ve been on canal tours in Belgium, for half the price, and I’d rather spend my money on something else here.  

So I found an amazing alternative. In my mind, it was so much more worth it because I’d never done it before – go on an actual houseboat at the  Houseboat Museum .  I thought it was pretty cool! And a unique experience that I can’t get anywhere else… unlike the canal tour. They give you information about life on a houseboat, and you get see and feel what it would be like to actually live on one.

Canal Cruises with Viator

For more canal cruise options in Amsterdam, click here .

Extra Things To Do Three Days In Amsterdam!

While spending three days in Amsterdam, you may want to also walk by some of these historical landmarks, or points of interest. 

• De Wag: The old city gates, now a restaurant.
• Montelbaanstoren, what’s left of 16th century defensive walls. It’s near the floating flower market.
• Molen De Otter: A windmill from 1631. It’s a bit passed the Cheese Museum and Anne Frank House, on the outskirts of the city.
• Wake Me Up When I’m Famous: This is outdoor art is a favourite instagram photo spot! Walk by when you visit Albert Cuyp Market, or if you go to the Heineken Experience. 
• Rembrandtplein if you want to see a large Rembrandt statue.

Is 3 Days Enough In Amsterdam?

Is 3 days enough in Amsterdam – I don’t like being too go-go-go on vacation and it never felt like I was. I’d say that three days in Amsterdam was the perfect amount of time.

We had more than enough time to wander the streets and not feel like we had to go straight from one activity to the other. That being said, we didn’t visit all the museums that Amsterdam has to offer. If you’re more of a museum goer than we are, you might feel like you want some more time that just three days in Amsterdam.

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Related Posts

• Unique Places To Eat in Amsterdam
• How To Bike To A Windmill From Amsterdam
• Where To Stay In Amsterdam CityHub Hostel Review
• 5 Money Saving Tips For Booking Direct Flights Online

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Sunday 3rd of April 2022

Did the bike tour to Ouderkerk and back this morning, excellent tip! Thanks!

Hi Kristina,

Amazing!! So glad to hear you liked it :D :D

Ummi Nadrah

Saturday 12th of December 2020

I was in Amsterdam for only one day last year. I went on a bike tour to the countryside, visited the cheese museum, and did the Heineken tour (touristy, I know, but it was a bucket list thing for me 😄). That was my second time in Amsterdam. Previously, I had already been to the Van Gogh, Red Light district, and tulip market. Still haven't visited Anne Frank though. Should aim for that next.

Amazing! Sounds like you've really been able to do a lot with your short time in Amsterdam. Visiting the countryside is a must in my books, such a different side to the city life! Highly recommend visiting Anne Frank house next time you're there, it's obviously not a happy story but it's a big part of history. If you haven't read her diary yet, I recommend reading it before your visit.

How to Bike to a Windmill from Amsterdam [Half Day Trip!] | Afternoon Tea Reads

Friday 11th of December 2020

[…] How long are you going to be in Amsterdam for? Check out my 3 day suggested itinerary […]

Monday 7th of December 2020

Loving these recommendations! I've never heard of some of these activities in Amsterdam but definitely need to add them to the list.

Thanks so much Alysa! I always like finding some more off the beaten path finds in each city I visit, I hope you get to visit!

Sunday 6th of December 2020

There's so much to do and experience in Amsterdam and your itinerary sounds perfect for three days! Thanks for sharing