A mix of historical charm, artistic flair, and modern sophistication—this is Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands. You shall definitely want to see that with a well-planned itinerary, considering you are just going to be here for three days. This guide provides a day-by-day itinerary of your 3 days in Amsterdam, helping navigate through the city’s must-see attractions, hidden gems, and culinary delights.
Best Travel Tips for 3 Days in Amsterdam
To make your trip smoother and more convenient, In this blog I will share the most comprehended yet easy itinerary for 3 days in Amsterdam.
What is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?
Spring (April to June): Spring is the time when maximum visitors come to Amsterdam. The weather is pleasing, and tulip fields are at their best in the city. Annual Tulip Festival and King’s Day celebrations are the main events during this season.
Summer (July to August): Summer is a good time to enjoy outdoor attractions and festivals in the city due to the warm weather with plenty of daylight. However, this is peak tourist season, so larger crowds should be expected.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a great period to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The fall foliage further adds to the beauty of the canals and the city’s parks. Wanderers like myself will choose this time to enjoy my perfect 3 days in Amsterdam vacation.
Winter (December to February): Winters in Amsterdam can be pretty cold, but they’re so festive with the holiday markets, ice skating, and coziest of cafes. Fewer tourists mean shorter lines at some of the more popular attractions.
How to Travel to Amsterdam?
By Air: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the primary international access point to the city. It serves well for connections with major cities all over the world and is a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam’s city center.
By Train: Amsterdam is also connected by train with other major European cities. Eurostar is a high speed train services running between Amsterdam and cities like Paris, Brussels, and London.
By Car: Although Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city that has very good public transport, it is also possible to drive into the city. However, it’s a pain to park, quite expensive, and thus using public transport for moving around the city is highly advisable.
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How to Travel within Amsterdam?
By Bicycle: Cycling is the most quintessential Amsterdam experience. The city comes equipped with an extensive bike lane system and plenty of bike rentals, so it’s quite easy to get around at your own pace.
By Tram: Amsterdam’s tram network is efficient and covers most of the city’s major areas. It is thus very convenient for traveling around the city and getting to various places of interest.
By Bus and Metro: Also, bus and metro lines will complete the tram network since they can outreach farther parts of Amsterdam and the surroundings of Amsterdam.
By Boat: If you want to see the city from a really different angle, try the Amsterdams canals by boat or water taxi. That is very nice and pleasant moving around the city.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam?
Best Hotel
The Dylan Amsterdam: It is a boutique hotel in the heart of the city, able to provide its guests with luxury, a feel of style, and truly personal service. The Dylan features elegant rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and the perfect location along the canal belt.
Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam: This is the charming Hotel Pulitzer, located in a series of historic canal houses that have a great deal of classic charm combined with modern facilities. It lies in the hub of the city, which offers easy access to major attractions.
Resort
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel: This is one of the well-located options, with a good reputation, offering guests spacious rooms, a fitness room, and a central location. The hotel provides comfortable accommodation with easy access to the city’s attractions.
Eden Hotel Amsterdam: The accommodation offering comes in the form of a resort that is able to provide comfort and style, having a fitness center and restaurant on its premises. Situated near the Amstel River, this place ideally provides peacefulness and good transportation facilities.
Budget Friendly
The Flying Pig Downtown: This hostel is centrally located, making it very popular. As one of the cheapest available, it gives only the basics in a social atmosphere.
Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark: This hostel in beautiful Vondelpark is ideal for budget accommodation with clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
Luxury
Conservatorium Hotel: The latest offering is luxurious, nestled within the very high-end amenities in the Museum District of Amsterdam—from spa facilities and fine dining to opulent rooms and much more.
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht: This luxurious hotel is situated on the Prinsengracht Canal, and it is distinguished by modern design, a lively atmosphere, excellent service, and perfect organization.
Midbudget
Hotel Estherea: Nice, midbudget hotel overlooking the Singel Canal, with elegant rooms, a great atmosphere, and a location just perfect for Amsterdam sightseeing.
Hampton by Hilton Amsterdam Centre East: This is a mid-range hotel with all kinds of modern facilities, comfortable rooms, and good value for the money. It is centrally located.
This guide will help you plan your visit to Amsterdam and ensure that you make the most out of your time here no matter when you visit or where you stay during your plan of 3 days in Amsterdam.
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Tips for Staying Safe and Avoiding Scams in Amsterdam
While Amsterdam may be a relatively safe city to travel about, it’s always good to remind oneself of some of the common scams and what one can do to help create a trouble-free 3 days in Amsterdam. Here are some really useful tips in keeping yourself safe and out of the hands of common travel scams:
Be Cautious with Your Belongings
Pickpocketing: With so many crowded places of interest to see in Amsterdam and public transport being busy, it’s a pickpocket’s heaven. Keep your stuff safe in a money belt or cross-body bag, easy to keep close to you. Never carry large amounts of cash around at any time, and keep a lookout for diversions like people asking for directions or bumping into you.
Be Careful with Your Belongings: Never leave your belongings unattended, be it visiting any places of interest or even eating at any restaurants. Make use of the hotels’ safe to store items like your passport and extra cash.
Beware of Common Scams
Fake Tickets: Be cautious while purchasing attraction or tour tickets. Only buy your tickets from registered vendors. Scams include phony ticket sellers hanging around outside popular tourist attractions and overpriced tickets sold by ticket scam artists.
Street Performers and Panhandlers: While the majority of street performers are genuinely good people, some can be very aggressive or even run scams for money. When approached, be courteous but firm, and never give any one money who makes you feel uncomfortable or pressured.
Unlicensed Taxi Services: Take fully licensed taxi companies or major ride-sharing apps. Never ride in an unmarked or unofficial taxi because they might overcharge or take longer routes to bump up the price.
Use Reputable Services and Establishments
Accommodation: Ensure that accommodation is booked from highly reviewed or reputable sources. It is important to research reviews and ratings when using TripAdvisor or Booking.com, among other booking platforms, before making reservations. Be careful with too-good-to-be-true deals or those that promise too much; they may be scams.
Restaurants and Shops: Always go with reputable restaurants or shops. Avoid street vendors or those that are too persuasive or advertise deals that may be too good to be true.
Stay Informed About Local Laws and Regulations
Cannabis Laws: Amsterdam is known for its cannabis culture, but know the rules here. Cannabis is legal on a licensed basis in coffee shops. Outside of these, possession and use are fined or may lead to legal action.
Cycling Etiquette: If you are going to rent a bike, learn about the local rules and etiquette regarding cycling. Bicycles are a major mode of transport in Amsterdam, and if not observing the traffic rules with regard to the bike lanes, accidents can easily occur.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Avoid Distractions: Be aware of your environment, particularly in busy areas and on public transportation. Distractions—someone approaching to ask for directions or a commotion—are usually used to conceal pickpocketing.
Travel in Groups: When possible, travel in groups, especially in locations that are unfamiliar or somewhat empty. There’s safety in numbers, and it’s easier to spot and avoid potential scams when you’re not alone.
Use Trusted Communication Channels
Emergency Numbers: Do not forget to find the local emergency numbers. In Amsterdam, this includes the general emergency number 112. Always keep it at your fingertips in case you need it.
Communication with Your Bank: Let your bank know that you will travel abroad to avoid having your credit or debit cards flagged for suspicious activity. Always use secure connections when accessing banking information online.
Stay Updated on Local News
Local Alerts: Be aware of local advisories and alerts that may impact your safety. Monitor local news sources and travel advisory pages to stay updated regarding safety and security conditions in the city.
With the tips, you will reduce the chances of becoming a victim of fraud. Therefore, have safe, wonderful time in Amsterdam by always being alert, heeding your instincts, and taking some common-sense measures that ensure that you and your belongings are safe.
Itinerary for 3 Days in Amsterdam
Day 1: Iconic Amsterdam
Canal Cruise
Kick off your Amsterdam visit with a canal cruise: The city boasts beautiful canals, and it is acknowledged that they are World Heritage. A cruise across the canals takes one to visit the superb old buildings with those beautiful bridges. You will get a tour of a general layout of the city and some of the big landmarks.
Dam Square
After the cruise around the canals, walk to Dam Square, which is the old center of Amsterdam. This will be a lively city square surrounded by important buildings, including the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the New Church. Take a little time to see these old monuments and feel the atmosphere of the busy square.
Anne Frank House
The next is the Anne Frank House, in memory of the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank and the hidden place of her family. This is an emotive museum dedicated to Anne Frank, whose diary narrates a sad story about her life during World War II. The museum is actually located in the secret annex where Anne and her family were hiding from the Nazis. Visiting this place will give one a lot of insight into how she was living and the impacts of the Holocaust, therefore forming an integral part of visiting Amsterdam. Get your tickets in advance not only to avoid long lines but also to really make your visit meaningful.
Jordaan District
After visiting the Anne Frank House, stroll through the Jordaan District. This is known for its narrow streets, picturesque canals, and trendy boutiques. It’s a sweet little neighborhood to walk around in. Stop for a cup of coffee or a light lunch in one of the many tiny cafes throughout the district.
The Jordaan District is a picture-postcard little area of small canals, historic buildings, and trendy shops. Discover some hidden stores, taste artisanal coffee, or taste the real spirit of this practically Amsterdam-like district.
Leidseplein
In the evening, visit the Leidseplein—a very lively square with restaurants and bars—the perfect place to spend a night out in Amsterdam. Enjoy a meal at any of the wide variety of restaurants—ranging from typically Dutch to international cuisine. Afterward, top it off with some drinks at one of the many busy bars or coffee shops in the area.
Day 2: Art and Culture
Rijksmuseum
Begin the second day by visiting the Rijksmuseum. This museum showcases a variety of Dutch art and history, such as some of the greatest masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other famous artists. Spend some hours wandering around the great exhibits in this museum.
Van Gogh Museum
Afterward, drop by the Van Gogh Museum, which opened in 1973 and was dedicated to the life and works of Vincent van Gogh. This museum houses the largest collection of paintings, drawings, and letters by Van Gogh. The place interests every art lover and provides deep inside information on the creative journey of this great artist.
Vondelpark
After the museum, continue to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park, actually. This park offers serene surroundings to have a lazy walk or enjoy a picnic. Take in the beauty of nature, and be refreshed from the hurry-burly of the city.
Vondelpark is the largest and most famous park in Amsterdam, a serene retreat with its green grass, tranquil ponds, and scenic walking paths. It is great for either a stroll or a picnic, or just relaxation amidst nature. A number of events and performances are also held within the park, further adding to this zestful atmosphere of being very inviting.
Museumplein
Next to the Vondelpark lies the Museumplein—a cultural complex of museums that hosts the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum. If time allows, the Stedelijk Museum is worth a visit, as it specializes in modern and contemporary art and design.
De Pijp
For dinner, make your way to the De Pijp area, famous not only for a gigantic selection of places to eat but also for a more animated street life. Here, one of the principal squares is the Albert Cuyp Market, which offers specialties of local food and some bizarre souvenir buys. Choose a restaurant according to your taste buds and take dinner in this part of Amsterdam.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
A’DAM Lookout
Check Out their Website – CLICK HERE
On your last day, cross the IJ River to start with a visit to A’DAM Lookout. This observation deck will provide you with an impressive view over Amsterdam. If you’re looking for an adrenaline kick, swing by “Over the Edge”—you’ll be swung out over the edge of the building.
NDSM Wharf
Check out their Website – CLICK HERE
Next, take a ferry to NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard that has been renovated for use as a creative center. It is known for its street art, industrial chic architecture, and cultural events. Wander around these colorful murals and get a feel for this alternative neighborhood.
Canal-Side Dinner
On your final evening, treat yourself to a canal-side dinner at one of Amsterdam’s many waterfront restaurants—it provides a view of the canal and a very relaxed atmosphere. Then there is an easy promenade walk in the evening along the canals, reflecting on the trip and soaking up the nighttime atmosphere of the city.
Conclusion
Your 3 days in Amsterdam will be packed with memories of iconic landmarks, world-class museums, delicious foods, and other secret locations. We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your visit and creates lasting memories of this time in this enchanting city.
Feel free to leave a comment below, sharing your experiences or any tips you may have for visiting Amsterdam. We’d love to hear!
