Exploring Amsterdam in a Day
Amsterdam is a buzzing city with a mix of historic charm and modern energy. The picturesque canals, quaint cobblestone streets, and preserved 17th-century Golden Age architecture make it a dream for travelers. With only one day, you won’t see everything, but you can still enjoy the best of the city. Whether you choose to visit world-class art galleries or simply explore the streets, there’s always something exciting to do.
To make your day trip manageable, start with a morning walk along the canals before heading to a must-see sight. Enjoy some cheese tasting, then rent a bike if you can keep up with Dutch cyclists. Use the trams to visit top attractions and get insights from Tripadvisor readers. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most popular destinations, and even a short visit is worth it. If you love it, you’ll surely want to return soon! Also read Moscow itinerary and Complete Tour Guide
Smart Ways to Arrive in Amsterdam
Arriving in Amsterdam can be an exciting start to your trip. If you spent the night in Amsterdam, you’re already set to explore. However, staying in Leiden, just a 35-minute train ride away, can save you money. My hotel in Leiden was one-third the price of what I would have paid in the city center, making it a cost-saving option.
If you’re surprised by the hotel prices, consider staying in Haarlem, Utrecht, or Leiden. These cities are well-connected to Amsterdam with frequent and affordable trains. This way, you can enjoy the buzzing city while also saving money. The trains make it easy to reach Amsterdam in no time, so you don’t miss out on your one-day adventure.
A Perfect Start in Amsterdam
I took an early train to Amsterdam Centraal Station and arrived around 8:20 am. You can choose to arrive earlier or later, but 8:30 am is a great time. Arriving too early means waiting for museums to open, while arriving too late may leave you rushing through the city.
If you have just one day in Amsterdam, every moment matters. With my 8:30 am arrival, I had enough time to buy a tram ticket and head straight to my first sight as soon as it opened. This strategy helped me make the most of my limited time while enjoying the city’s vibrant energy.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
If you’re visiting Amsterdam for just one day, staying in the City Center is a smart choice. You’ll be within walking distance of most attractions and just 15 minutes by train from the airport. While Amsterdam isn’t huge, staying in the right location ensures convenience, safety, and easy access to everything.
For a central stay, Dam Square is an ideal option. The Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky is a historic hotel that is highly rated for its spacious rooms and soothing decor. A more budget-friendly alternative nearby is Hotel V Nesplein, known for its excellent breakfast and quiet atmosphere.
Another great choice is InntelHotels Amsterdam Centre, located just a 10-minute walk from Centraal Station. It’s modern, comfortable, and quiet, despite being close to everything. For a stay near the Amstel River, Eden Hotel Amsterdam is fantastic, offering updated rooms, stylish common areas, and easy tram access to top sights.
How to Get Around During Your 24 Hours in Amsterdam
Exploring Amsterdam in a day means you need to move fast and efficiently. The best way to maximize your time is by using a 24-hour tram ticket from Amsterdam Centraal Station. While individual tickets are an option, a day pass is worth it for the number of trips you’ll take. Ticket machines are located inside the station, under the Amsterdam Centraal sign, to the left. Even if they appear out of order, they usually still work!
Walking in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a walkable city, packed into just three square miles. Walking allows you to soak in the charm of the canals and historic buildings. Comfortable shoes are a must! While most attractions are within walking distance, places like Museumplein are a bit far, so plan accordingly.
Biking in Amsterdam
Want to experience Amsterdam like a local? Biking is an essential part of the city’s culture. Rental shops like RentaBike.nl offer helmets, maps, and locks. If you’re not confident on a bike, consider a guided bike tour instead of riding solo—it’s the best way to stay safe and enjoy the ride.
Public Transportation
If you’re staying in the city center, you might not need public transit much. However, for longer distances, Amsterdam has an excellent network of trams, buses, subways, and ferries.
- Trains: Best for getting to and from the airport or visiting cities like Utrecht, Rotterdam, or Haarlem.
- Trams: A fast and convenient way to travel within Amsterdam. You can now tap in and out using Apple Pay or a contactless card, making it even easier.
- Driving: Not recommended. Streets are narrow, parking is expensive, and public transit is much easier. If you have a car, park it on the outskirts and use transit to get into the city.
How to Get from Amsterdam Airport to City Center
The fastest, easiest, and most affordable way to reach Amsterdam city center from Schiphol Airport is by train. Trains run every 15 minutes, and a ticket costs just over €5.00. You can purchase tickets inside the airport before heading to the platform. The train takes you directly to Centraal Station, where you can immediately begin exploring the city on foot.
For alternative options, buses connect Schiphol to different parts of Amsterdam, making them a convenient choice for reaching specific neighborhoods. Taxis are also available, though they are a more expensive option compared to public transport.
Vital Tips for One Day in Amsterdam
Get Your Anne Frank Tickets Early
Anne Frank House tickets sell out fast, so plan ahead! Tickets are released every Tuesday at 10:00 AM (Amsterdam Time) for dates six weeks in advance. Set an alarm and buy them immediately, or you’ll likely miss out.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Speaking Dutch… but Know You Don’t Have To
Dutch is a tricky language, but locals appreciate the effort. That said, almost everyone in Amsterdam speaks English, so you won’t struggle to communicate.
Coffee Shops Don’t Serve Coffee
In Amsterdam, coffee shops are for cannabis, not coffee. If you’re looking for actual coffee, head to a café instead. And never buy drugs off the street—it’s dangerous and illegal.
Stay Out of the Bike Lane
Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, and cyclists move fast! Stay out of the red-brick bike lanes to avoid accidents and angry bikers.
Don’t Use Your Phone in the Red Light District
The Red Light District strictly prohibits photography. Bouncers enforce this rule, and taking pictures of the women in the windows is not allowed. It’s best to keep your phone away while in the area.
Walk if You Can
While public transport is efficient, walking lets you soak in the charm of the city. Just watch out for cyclists—there are more bikes than people in Amsterdam!
One Day in Amsterdam
1. History with a Side of Tiny Pancakes – Dutch Pancake Breakfast
Start your day with a coffee and some Dutch pancakes to fuel up for your exciting 24 hours in Amsterdam. The city offers two signature styles of pancakes:
- Pannenkoeken: Large, thin pancakes, similar to crepes but slightly thicker.
- Poffertjes: Bite-sized, fluffy pancakes, typically served in a pile with sweet toppings.
Amsterdam is famous for poffertjes, and there’s no better place to try them than PANCAKES Amsterdam Westermarkt in the Jordaan neighborhood. They serve Dutch-style thin pancakes, fluffy American-style ones, and various sweet and savory options. Other fantastic breakfast spots include:
- The Pancake Bakery: Known for its massive sweet and savory pancakes with canal views.
- Pancakes Amsterdam: A great selection of Dutch pancakes, with a convenient location near Jordaan.
- The Happy Pig Pancake Shop: Specializes in rolled pancakes with an array of fillings and toppings.
- Pancakehouse Upstairs: A quirky little spot with traditional pancakes and teapots hanging from the ceiling (reservations recommended).
After breakfast, visit the Anne Frank House, a must-see museum featuring the “Secret Annex” where Anne Frank and her family hid during WWII. Since this is a high-demand attraction, booking a timed entry ticket in advance is essential. Nearby, you’ll find the Homomonument, a tribute to the LGBTQ+ community persecuted by the Nazis.
Next, take a stroll through De Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets), a trendy neighborhood known for its boutique shopping, before heading to the Museum of the Canals. This museum, located in a grand canal house, provides an interactive history of Amsterdam’s famous waterways. If you’re a fan of Dutch cheese, stop by De Kaaskamer to sample aged Gouda and raw-milk Edam before heading to Dam Square, home to the Gothic Nieuwe Kerk and the Royal Palace Amsterdam.
2. Rijksmuseum
If you prefer a broader art experience over the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum is an excellent alternative. As the Netherlands’ National Museum, it houses an extensive collection of Dutch art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt (The Night Watch) and Vermeer (The Milkmaid), as well as artifacts from the Middle Ages. The museum also boasts a remarkable collection of Asian art, including Buddhist sculptures and Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. Since tickets sell out months in advance, pre-booking is highly recommended.
3. Visit the Anne Frank House
A visit to the Anne Frank House is an emotional and thought-provoking experience. The museum provides a powerful insight into Anne Frank’s life and the devastating impact of war. Given its popularity, securing tickets in advance is crucial.
4. Take a Canal Cruise
Seeing Amsterdam from the water is a must! Various companies offer canal cruises, lasting about an hour, complete with historical and architectural commentary. If you visit during the holidays, you may even catch the Amsterdam Light Festival, which features stunning illuminated art installations along the canals.
5. Bloemenmarkt – Floating Flower Market
If you’re visiting in the summer, take a stroll through the Floating Flower Market, which has been open since 1862. While you may not be able to carry flowers around all day, it’s still a beautiful and colorful experience worth checking out.
6. Cocktails at Hiding in Plain Sight
After a long day, unwind with a drink at Hiding in Plain Sight, a cozy and intimate cocktail bar that’s easy to miss from the outside but offers a fantastic ambiance inside.
7. Treat Yourself at Van Wonderen Stroopwafels
Before calling it a night, grab a stroopwafel from Van Wonderen Stroopwafels. These delicious Dutch treats consist of two thin baked wafers filled with a rich caramel syrup. They’re a must-try snack in Amsterdam and a sweet way to end your adventure.
Goodbye Amsterdam
By the time it’s around 3:30 PM, or even later if you had a long lunch, you might find yourself debating whether to continue exploring Amsterdam or start making your way back. If you choose to stay, consider taking a self-guided walk along the scenic canals, discovering hidden gems, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of this vibrant city.
For those heading out of the city, a great option is to stop by Haarlem on the way back. This charming Dutch town offers a quieter yet equally picturesque experience with its historic architecture, cozy cafes, and cultural landmarks. Whether you choose to extend your Amsterdam adventure or explore Haarlem, your day will end on a memorable note.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Amsterdam, even for just one day, was an incredible experience. While more time would have been ideal, I’m grateful for the memories made in this vibrant city. Life doesn’t always allow for long stays, but even a short trip can leave a lasting impression.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change my decision to stop in Haarlem. While it didn’t resonate with me personally, travel is all about experiencing new places firsthand. You never truly know if a city will suit you until you visit. Haarlem might not have been my favorite, but others may find it charming and worth exploring.
Amsterdam is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering a mix of art, history, and delicious Dutch treats. Whether you’re wandering the canals, visiting museums, or indulging in local cuisine, there’s something for everyone. What would you add to a one-day itinerary? Let me know in the comments below!
Get ready—this day in Amsterdam might just be one of the best of your life. This city has a way of stealing hearts in just 24 hour.