Amsterdam For A Week: One Week in Amsterdam Itinerary
Are you visiting Amsterdam for a week and looking for an itinerary? Look no more! I’ve guided tourists from all over the world for several years in Amsterdam, and I have put together this guide for the best trip ever.
I’ll show you an amazing one-week Amsterdam itinerary, the things you need to know about getting the tickets to your favourite attractions, where to stay in Amsterdam, how to get around the city, the best time to visit Amsterdam and insider tips for your week in Amsterdam.
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Book Your Trip To Amsterdam: Logistical Tips And Tricks
| Book Your Flight Use WayAway to find cheap flights. They compare airfares offered by all major US and global airlines and agencies and find options for any wallet. WayAway offers the best flight deals for specific travel dates as well as more affordable tickets on alternative dates. Users who sign up for the WayAway Plus membership plan get additional cashback on bookings of flights, hotels, rentals, and more. Book Your Accommodation You can book your hotel via Booking.com as they consistently have the cheapest rates for hotels and guesthouses. Some of my favourite places to stay are: Hotel 717 Met Hotel Amsterdam Nhow Amsterdam Rai If you prefer a hostel, then you can book with Hostelworld as they have the best deals and the biggest inventory. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance protects you against theft, illness and cancellations. EKTA covers travellers all over the World with 24/7 client support from 1.65 USD a day. European eSIM With eSIMs from Airalo, you can download and install a digital data pack for over 200 countries/regions and get connected anywhere in the world as soon as they land. Book Your Attraction Tickets Get Your Guide, Viator and Tiqets are some of my favourites. Transportation Bike rental: BikesBooking Transfers: Gettransfer Car rental: Discover car Transportation phone apps: 9292 & NS Travel Planner Want More Information On The Netherlands? Visit The Netherlands section. |
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Day 1 Amsterdam Itinerary
Amsterdam’s City Centre
Start your one week in Amsterdam by exploring the historic centre of Amsterdam and taking a walking tour with local Dutch food tasting. Visit popular landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the New Church, the most important canals, bridges, iconic squares, Begijnhof, the Mint Tower, the Flower Market, the LGBT street and the Amstel River.
Canal Cruise
Take a canal cruise to admire Amsterdam’s picturesque canals and charming architecture. It’s a great way to get an overview of the city but this time on water. There are many different canal boat tours you can choose from evening canals, open boat cruises, canal cruises with audio commentary, drinks and local snacks. My favourite canal cruise ever was a birthday gift from my boyfriend: a dinner cruise with a 4-course menu. I’ll never forget that experience!
Day 2 Amsterdam Itinerary
Van Gogh Museum
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to admire the works of the famous Dutch painter, Vincent van Gogh. Just like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam. Make sure you buy your tickets at least 1 month before your trip!
Rijksmuseum
Explore the Rijksmuseum, which houses an impressive collection of Dutch art and masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch.”
Museumplein
Explore the Museumplein area, home to several museums. Amongst the most famous museums like Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum, you can find other amazing ones like Stedelijk Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art, and the Moco Museum, which features works by Banksy and other street artists.
Vondelpark
After a day of museums stroll through Vondelpark and enjoy its beautiful green spaces, ponds, and birds. If the weather allows make a picnic and relax after the cultural day.
Day 3 Amsterdam Itinerary
Jordaan neighbourhood
The Jordaan neighbourhood was a working-class neighbourhood that turned into a trendy area. It’s perfect to walk around, eat at a traditional restaurant like Moeders and enjoy less crowded streets. Next to Jordaan, you’ll find the ‘9 streets’ with cosy cafés and trendy boutiques.
Anne Frank House
Visit the Anne Frank House where her family hid during World War II. It showcases the rooms and how the whole family lived in the attic. You’ll also find her original diary in which she was writing her daily life in the attic.
Anne Frank House is a very popular attraction and you’ll need to buy the tickets at least 2 months in advance. Also, the visit can feel a bit rushed as there is little space and you have to walk in a line, but if you are a fan you definitely cannot miss the house of Anne Frank.
Try Dutch Food
Indulge in Dutch cuisine by trying local specialities such as stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen. Explore the food hall market Foodhallen. It’s a local spot and gets busy during lunch and dinner.
Amsterdam’s nightlife
Experience Amsterdam’s nightlife by exploring the areas of Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. Enjoy live music, bars, and clubs.
Day 4 Amsterdam Itinerary
Day Trip To Zaanse Shans, Volendam & Marken
One of the things The Netherlands is famous for is its windmills. Take a day trip to Zaanse Schans, a pretty village located north of Amsterdam. You’ll explore the historic working windmills in Zaanse Schans, visit a cheese factory in Volendam, and learn about traditional Dutch crafts like wooden shoes in Marken.
Book a tour of the northern villages and enjoy one day in the Dutch countryside you’ll not forget.
Red Light District
Back in Amsterdam, end your day 4 in Amsterdam by strolling through the Red Light District and the Oude Kerk. I suggest getting a tour so you can understand the history behind it and the often misunderstood neighbourhood. Keep in mind that it is forbidden to take photos of sex workers.
Day 5 Amsterdam Itinerary
Nemo Science Museum
Visit the NEMO Science Museum, a hands-on museum where you can explore science and technology through interactive exhibits. It’s great for both kids and adults. Visit the cafeteria at the top of the museum for nice views.
Amsterdam Noord
Take the free ferry from behind the Centraal Station across the river IJ towards the north of the city. The area has grown in the last few years and it became one of the cool places to be. Be sure to visit EYE, Amsterdam’s film institute.
In Amsterdam Noord, there are two famous attractions: A’DAM Lookout – an observation deck with some of the best views of the city and This is Holland – a 5D flight over the must-see sites in the Netherlands. On the A’DAM Lookout, you also have the Panorama Restaurant where you can savour the views of Amsterdam together with your hamburger. Highly recommended!
Day 6 Amsterdam Itinerary
Plantage neighbourhood
Explore the Plantage neighbourhood and visit the Artis Royal Zoo. Discover a wide variety of animals and enjoy the beautiful gardens. If you are interested in the invisible world of microbes and life forms I wholeheartedly recommend ARTIS-Micropia Museum which is next door to Artis Zoo.
De Pijp neighbourhood
Explore the trendy neighbourhood of De Pijp and the famous Albert Cuyp Market. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique items.
Visit the famous Heineken Experience, where you can learn about the brewing process and enjoy beer tasting.
Day 7 Amsterdam Itinerary
Day Trip To Haarlem
Situated just a short train ride away from Amsterdam, Haarlem is perfect to escape the crowds and have an authentic Dutch experience.
This charming town is very picturesque and worth visiting. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, cathedrals and museums like the famous Teylers Museum, an institution filled with diverse collections of art, science, and natural history.
Beyond its landmarks, there are many boutique shops and yummy restaurants. Enjoy the tranquillity, explore the landmarks, and discover the charm of Haarlem’s boutique shops. Read more about Haarlem in my article Is Haarlem worth visiting?
Do you prefer to know about other day trips from Amsterdam?
Check out my article about weekend trips from Amsterdam.
Tickets You Have To Buy Before (Must Read)
This section is a must-read because I’ve met so many people wanting to visit these museums and could not make it because there were no tickets available.
These two museums need tickets in advance. Make sure you book yours ahead of your trip so you can enjoy the museums.
Anne Frank House
Anne Frank is a very popular museum and the tickets are always sold out. Book your tickets with at least 2 months in advance.
The tickets are only sold on the official website of Anne Frank. There is no other way you can book these!
If you are in no luck finding tickets online, every Tuesday at 10 am CEST there are new tickets available for a visit 6 weeks later.
Van Gogh Museum
Just like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam. Make sure you buy your tickets at least 1 month before your trip!
Booking in advance your tickets will allow you to skip the line and enjoy the museum at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Popular areas to stay in include the city centre (Centrum), Jordaan, De Pijp, and Oud-West. Distances in Amsterdam are short, so don’t worry if your hotel is not in the city centre because everything is well connected.
My handpicked recommendations:
- Couples: Hotel 717
- For a quiet night: Nhow Amsterdam Rai
- Design Lovers: Met Hotel Amsterdam
- Families: Sir Adam Hotel
- Luxury travellers: Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht – a concept by Hyatt
- Groups: Ecomama
- Solo traveller: Cocomama
- On a low budget: ClinkNOORD Hostel
If you prefer to peruse more hostels, then you can check out Hostelworld as they have the best deals and the biggest hostel inventory.
Getting To and Around Amsterdam
Amsterdam is well-connected to international destinations through Amsterdam Schipol and the Amsterdam Cruise Port & Passenger Terminal.
The most convenient way to reach Amsterdam’s city centre from the airport is by taking a train from the airport’s train station. Direct trains run frequently and provide a direct connection to Amsterdam Central Station in about 15-20 minutes.
From the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), you can easily access the city centre using various modes of transportation. Taxis and local buses are readily available outside the terminal, offering a straightforward journey to popular destinations in Amsterdam.
Best for sightseeing: One of the easiest and most convenient ways to see Amsterdam is by the hand of the Hop On Hop Off Bus. The Bus offers 10 stops while you listen to the most important facts about the places you visit along the way with its GPS audio guide in 19 different languages.
Public transport: Amsterdam has an efficient and extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metros, which can easily take you around the city. You can pay by card for your ticket on the trams and buses. For the metros, you’ll need to buy a ticket in a ticket machine. You can also buy tickets in advance from the official website of GVB.
Bicycles: With more bikes than citizens, bikes are a popular mode of transport in Amsterdam, and renting one can be a fun and convenient way to explore the city.
Taxi: Another convenient way to move around is by taxi, although it is more costly than other methods of transport.
Boat: Make sure to include in your 1 week in Amsterdam a boat tour. There are many different canal boat tours you can choose from evening canals, open boat cruise, canal cruise with audio commentary, cruise with drinks and local snacks.
Walking is another great option, as many of Amsterdam’s attractions are within a reasonable distance from each other. Make sure you are not walking on the bike paths as this can cause accidents.
What To See In Amsterdam Aside from the Must Do’s
During your week in Amsterdam, you have enough time to explore other attractions. Aside from the Must Do’s in Amsterdam, there are so many more options to choose from.
Amsterdam is not a boring city at all! However, some attractions may require booking your tickets in advance.
Here are my recommendations for great sights to see in Amsterdam aside from the Must Do’s:
- House of Bols – If you are a cocktail lover, learn how to make your own cocktail in this workshop. It includes the entrance to the largest cocktail experience and two cocktails you’ll make yourself.
- Ice Bar – The coolest place to have your drink at -10 degrees Celsius.
- Body Worlds – This is a stunning exhibition with 200 plastinated human bodies that explores how happiness can affect both your body and soul. I visited Body Worlds several times and every time I would discover something new about the human body.
- Hermitage Amsterdam – A museum showcasing rotating exhibitions of art and history.
- Amsterdam Museum – One of my favourite museums in which you can learn about the city of Amsterdam from the stories of its inhabitants and historical highlights.
- Stedelijk Museum – Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art emphasizes that art and design develop alongside social movements and bear multiple histories that encompass diverse perspectives.
- Visit the Rembrandt House Museum, where the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt lived and worked. Explore his former home and studio.
- Museum Amstelkring – Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (“Our Lord in the Attic”) is a church that was secretly built during Protestant rule.
- Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple and Amsterdam’s Chinatown.
- Mezrab for storytelling and comedy fun.
- Goat farm at Amsterdamse Bos
- Wateroplein Flea Market
- Take a bike ride along Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets and canals. Rent a bike and discover the city at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring (April to June) or the early fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded.
The famous tulip season also occurs in spring (mid-March to mid-May), with colourful blooms in the nearby Keukenhof Gardens.
If you’re planning to visit the tulip fields and Keukenhof I’ve got you covered in this article.
Final Thoughts: One Week In Amsterdam Itinerary
Exploring Amsterdam for a week gives you the time to immerse yourself in the city’s vibe, visit world-class museums, and explore beyond the city limits on exciting day trips. By following a planned itinerary, you can make the most of your time in one week in Amsterdam.
Throughout your week, be sure to explore the city’s historic centre, take a canal cruise to appreciate its unique architecture, and visit renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through beautiful parks, such as Vondelpark, and the neighbourhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp.
For a deeper understanding of Dutch traditions, take a day trip to Zaanse Schans to see windmills and learn about traditional crafts. Consider exploring other nearby cities like Haarlem, Utrecht, or Delft, which offer their own unique charms.
Lastly, the best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring or early fall, when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded. However, Amsterdam can be enjoyed year-round, and each season brings its own charm.
So, plan your itinerary, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable week in the vibrant and picturesque city of Amsterdam.
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FAQs
The number of days you should spend in Amsterdam depends on your interests and how much time you want to dedicate to exploring the city.
Many visitors find that spending 3-5 days in Amsterdam allows for a good amount of time to experience the main attractions and get a sense of the city.
However, if you’re interested in knowing more about the city’s museums, taking day trips, and slow travel, then you could easily spend a week or more in Amsterdam.
The amount of money you’ll need for a week in Amsterdam depends on your accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities.
As a rough estimate, a mid-range traveller should plan to spend from €100 up to €200 per day on accommodation, meals, local transportation, and attractions. This estimate doesn’t include shopping expenses.
Whether a week in Amsterdam is too long or not depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you enjoy exploring the city at a relaxed pace, a week in Amsterdam can be a great option.
It allows you to experience the city’s atmosphere, take day trips to nearby destinations, and truly get a feel for the local culture.
However, if you’re more interested in a quick overview of the city’s highlights, 3 days might be more suitable for you.
Travel Inspiration for Amsterdam and Beyond
What to See & Do:
35 Best Things To Do At Night In Amsterdam
Best Places In The Dutch Countryside
Weekend Trips From Amsterdam In The Netherlands
Best Instagram Spots in Amsterdam
The Best Places For Walking In The Netherlands
Itineraries:
Amsterdam in One Day Ultimate Guide: 1 Day Itinerary + Map
Amsterdam For A Week: One Week in Amsterdam Itinerary
Seasonal Guide:
Amsterdam In Autumn: The Ultimate Guide
The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Amsterdam Tulips’ And Keukenhof Gardens
More of the Netherlands:
What You Need To Know For Your First Time In Amsterdam
Is Haarlem Worth Visiting? Reasons And Things To Do
