So, you’ll be taking a weekend trip to Amsterdam? Consider me envious. Amsterdam is without question one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. For anybody visiting the capital city of the Netherlands for the initial time, you’ll undoubtedly fall head over heels in love with it, just as I did. There isn’t anything superior to wandering the canals, whether by day or night, and sensing the pulsating energy that fills Amsterdam. Starting from the stunning 17th-century canal ring district and outstanding museums, to a vibrant nightlife scene and an excellent selection of restaurants, your 2 days in Amsterdam will be loaded with nothing but delight.
During your trip, you`ll find the city filled with eventful history, astonishing architecture, and an incredible cultural landscape. Once a tiny fishing hamlet, Amsterdam has developed into a bustling center of culture, art, and business over the centuries. Two days is hardly enough to experience everything in Amsterdam. In fact, trying to cram everything you could possibly see in Amsterdam into two days is a foolish endeavor.
However, a weekend in Amsterdam is the ideal amount of time to explore and see what makes Amsterdam unique, and leave you hungry for the next time you get to wander its gorgeous canals.
I’d recommend slowing down and choosing the attractions you are GENUINELY interested in and focusing on those so that you have ample time to stroll and wander those picturesque canals.
This 2 day Amsterdam itinerary has you seeing many of the major attractions, but reserves time in between for exploring off the beaten path on foot.
ALSO SEE: My Gluten Free Amsterdam Travel Guide for Celiacs provides recommendations for visitors with celiac disease traveling to the Dutch capital.”
You will not want to neglect my guide to where to lodge in Amsterdam to locate the ideal spot to reside for your style and budget
Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and make a purchase, I earn a small portion of the sale at no extra cost to you. It goes without saying that I would only recommend something I would use or do myself.
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2 Days in Amsterdam: Plan the Perfect Weekend in Amsterdam
I`ve created this guide to aid planning your two day Amsterdam itinerary and ensure you don`t miss top experiences. Here are premier things to see, do and eat in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is loaded with attractions. Rather than over-packing your 2 days in Amsterdam with as many ‘to-dos’ and ‘to-sees’ as feasible, I’d propose accomplishing less and focusing on the most important experiences. For example, is it truly necessary to visit that fourth museum, or would your time be better spent exploring one of Amsterdam’s best neighborhoods by foot?
Pssst – it’s 100% the latter. And this is coming from someone who has definitely played the “how many museums can I experience in 24 hours” game before. Trust me, you don’t want to do it.
Travellers will find that the true magic of Amsterdam lies in the in-between moments, when wandering deserted alleys or strolling the picturesque canals provides time to appreciate the sheer natural splendor of the city.
Day One: Jordaan and the Red Light District
It’s an 8-km (4.97mi) loop path along the continental divide and Kootenay National Park. This trek will take you past rolling hillsides, lakes, valleys, and mountains at Simpson viewpoint.
But first, coffee.
Morning: Exploring Jordaan
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Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam
You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll need plenty of energy to explore every nook and cranny of Amsterdam. To fuel up, start your day with some incredibly tasty gluten free Dutch pancakes at Pancakes Amsterdam.
They have four locations throughout the city, but for travelers in Jordaan, finding one near the Anne Frank House will be most practical. Choose from over a dozen pancakes produced from fresh local ingredients sourced from surrounding farms.
They also serve lactose free and vegan pancakes, so be sure to update the staff about any allergies or dietary preferences. While the location isn`t completely gluten-free, they take steps to prevent cross-contamination. You can learn more about their policies here.
Take a Walking Tour
I almost always suggest starting your trip with a walking tour to get familiar with the area and to get some tips from your local guide. Below, you’ll find a rough self-guided walking tour, but if you want to get deeper into the vivid history of Jordaan with an experienced and well-informed guide, here are some guided walking tours to consider.
- Tour of Amsterdam`s history during the Golden Age period
- Three hour morning walking tour of Amsterdam
- Private tour of Amsterdam by foot
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Jordaan
If you’re more interested in self-guided walking routes, here’s how to tour Jordaan and uncover its hidden gems.
This distinctive neighborhood near central Amsterdam is renowned for its architecture, arts, cuisine, and unique atmosphere.
Walk around and explore the streets of the most picturesque neighborhood in Amsterdam surrounded by centuries-old canals. Book a guided Jordaan walking tour or roam the district’s maze of streets on your own, it’s really up to you.
Here are some highlights:
- Sample some renowned apple pie at Winkel 43 (it is certainly not gluten-free for those caring about that).
- Reypenaer Tasting Room: My preferred cheese shop in Amsterdam. It’s packaged allowing you to even bring some home with you!
- Stop by Marqt, an upscale market containing numerous gluten free choices.
- Casually browsing on Berensluis (Scotch & Soda is my favorite brand) or Reestrat
- Tales and Spirits: My preferred cocktail establishment in the city with a concealed vibe and EXCEPTIONAL beverages.
- Proeflokaal Arendsnest: Grab a seat at the timber-paneled bar and choose from a huge selection of Belgian beers. Or, if you’re like me and can’t consume gluten, grab a cider (they have a few options).
- Spend time with the locals at Cafe de Tuin. Whether it’s 10am or 10pm, you’ll find this cozy café packed with residents. We unexpectedly came across it one night after a drink at Tales and Spirits, and had a glass of wine externally on the street. It was lovely.
The Nine Streets
During your wandering, you’ll likely meander east towards downtown streets filled with hidden alleyways containing petite specialty stores, creating some of the best informal browsing in the city.
Locals refer to this charming neighborhood as `The Nine Streets` (De Negen Straatjes), known for its lovely narrow roads, beautiful houses, charming bridges, great eateries, and independent boutiques.
Spend some time investigating the nine alleyways and nearby canals before determining your next steps.
The Anne Frank Museum
The Anne Frank House holds the impressive collection of 15,000 documents and artifacts telling the poignant and heartbreaking story of the Secret Annex, Anne Frank, her family, and other people who hid there for over two years during World War II.
Tickets for the Anne Frank House can only be purchased online beforehand and are valid for a selected time slot. Keep in mind this is one of the most visited places in Amsterdam, so tickets sell out very quickly.
You’ll want to make reservations several months in advance if you want to visit the museum. The first time I went to Amsterdam, I didn’t book in time and had to skip it.
Don’t repeat the error – reserve your tickets three months in advance.
Details for Visiting the Anne Frank House: Admission fees vary from €0.50 (ages 0-9) to €5.50 (ages 10-17) and €10.50 (adults), plus a €0.50 booking fee. The Anne Frank House is accessible daily from 9am to 10pm between April 1 and November 1 and from 9am to 7pm between November 1 and April 1. The museum is closed on October 9 for Yom Kippur.
If you miss the museum, I would highly suggest a walking tour focused on Anne Frank to hear her story and get a sense of what Jordaan was like in World War 2.
Lunch at Foodhallen
For lunch, consider checking out the Foodhallen. It’s essentially a space housing many different food vendors. They provide outstanding gluten-free choices, such as Fento, and find some of the best coffee in Amsterdam next door at Lot Sixty One Coffee.
Next, proceed to the world-renowned Red Light District.
Afternoon: The Red-Light District
DO I HEAR SOME MUSIC BY LUDACRIS PLAYING IN THE BACKGROUND?
Be certain to incorporate De Wallen, commonly referred to as the Red-Light District, into your proposed two day schedule in Amsterdam.
We in the Red Light District
If you’re interested to learn more about Amsterdam’s history, the policies surrounding cannabis usage (in Amsterdam, locations known as “coffee shops” legally permit cannabis consumption, while cafes serve beverages like coffee), and legalized commercial sex work, participating in a guided evening wandering of the red-light district under local direction is a premier method to explore this facet of the city.
We did this during our last trip, and it was one of the best experiences of our 2 days in Amsterdam.
With around 400 red-light and blue-light windows, a great number of coffeeshops and bars, De Wallen street is a hub of partying in the city.
Each night, people flock to the district which remains vibrant into the early morning hours. Those seeking a coffeehouse experience while in Amsterdam will find many opportunities in this location. Cannabis cafes in Amsterdam aren`t allowed promotional signage but their permit will be indicated by a green and white emblem inside the windowpane.
Wynand Fockink
One thing you can’t miss in the Red Light District is tasting some craft made liqueurs at 340 years old Wynand Fockink Distillery. I had read about this place before my first trip to Amsterdam, and it blew me away.
At the shop, you`ll find many varieties of liqueurs from fruit forward to herb blends as well as genevers available to sample. The friendly staff behind the counter will aid you in determining which options may interest you and pour a selection. Grabbing a bottle to take home makes a thoughtful gift for friends or relatives elsewhere.
Evening: The Canal Cruise
Likely the best way to end a day in your Amsterdam weekend is to board a romantic evening cruise along some of the 1,000 beautiful bridges in the city.
Explore the unique spectacle of Amsterdam`s canals from the best viewpoint: on the water. It is certainly an alternate perspective, and one worth gaining during your limited time in Amsterdam.
Did you know that the waterway loops in the medieval outdated town of Amsterdam are a UNESCO Planet Heritage website? An evening canal cruise is a ideal way to get a sense of the Dutch Fantastic Age group when the city’s art work, architecture, and trade were thriving.
Here’s another canal boat option that departs from the Anne Frank House.
The evening boat cruises on Amsterdam`s canals normally take between one to one and a half hours, offering a singular vantage point to appreciate the architecture and natural scenery.
End the first of 2 days in Amsterdam by taking in the view of the city awash in the glittering lights of its streets and shimmering waters of 17th-century canals.
Dinner and Drinks
Another great stop is Salt House Mercantile, who carry Farmhouse Pottery (the most beautiful ceramics we’ve ever seen) all the way from Vermont!
After dinner, you’ll want to treat yourself. For superb cocktails, visit the Tales and Spirits (Lijnbaanssteeg 5-7, 1012 TE Amsterdam, Netherlands). Or if you’re craving a draft, walk to the Proeflokaal Arendsnest (Herengracht 90, 1015 BS Amsterdam, Netherlands). They serve over 100 beers focusing on local and Belgian beers, and have a few ciders bottled.
Day Two: Museums and Vondelpark
Initiate your second day with an espresso at Black Gold Coffee and Vinyl shop, away from the tourist swarms.
Morning: The Best Museums in Amsterdam
Armed with the surge of energy from that shot of espresso (or three), explore the Museum Quarter of Amsterdam. It`s home to the city`s most visited museums like the Rijksmuseum,Van Gogh Museum, and modern art Stedelijk Museum.
I suggest visiting no more than two of them with 2 days in Amsterdam. I would definitely do the Rijksmuseum, and add on the Van Gogh museum only if you enjoy his artwork. Each museum deserves at least 2-3 hours of dedicated time, and that would mean spending your entire second day in these two museums. See both (without waiting in lines) with this 5.5 hour highly rated guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.
Don’t neglect to take a self-portrait with a renowned I Amsterdam indicator that can be found just outside the Rijksmuseum.
The Rijksmuseum
If you’re going to tour one museum (which is usually the number of museums I have patience for), this is the one. You’re going to want to avoid the lengthy ticket line, which can become quite busy, so purchase your skip-the-line tickets beforehand.
The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most frequented museums housing a huge array of renowned works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and many other artists.
The Rijksmuseum first opened in 1800. However, it was situated in the Hague until 1885, when it was transferred to its current building. The Rijksmuseum collection contains more than a million pieces of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts.
If you’re looking for a guided tour of the Rijksmuseum, which I’d recommend (if not, definitely get the audio guide), here is a small group walking tour of the Rijksmuseum led by an expert that will illuminate history with a guide explaining the highlights of the museum.
Van Gogh Museum
The famous Van Gogh Museum houses the world`s largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh. The permanent collection incorporates 500 drawings, the renowned artist`s collection of Japanese prints and over 750 letters.
The access passes may be obtained via this link at the cost of € 21. Entry is scheduled in advance when you intend to visit. Utilizing the audio guide provides extra insight.
If you’re looking for a guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum to learn more about his background, his life, and how his work evolved over time, this is the tour I would select.
Entry is free for kids and teens under 18 years old. The museum is open from 9 am to 9 pm on Friday and 9 am to 6 pm for the rest of the week.
Afternoon: Explore Vondelpark & De Pijp
If there is one activity you must do on a weekend in Amsterdam during the summer months, it is exploring the vast green space in the center of the city – the Vondelpark.
Rent a bike and discover Amsterdam at your own pace. Pedal to Vondelpark, the popular park known for its ponds and rose gardens, and spend the afternoon relaxing within its grounds.
You’ll find people from all walks enjoying relaxing, walking, cycling, and the green space in the heart of Amsterdam.
De Pijp
Prior to your two days in Amsterdam coming to an end, be sure to explore the bohemian district of De Pijp. Wander through narrow lanes lined with restaurants, pubs, and cafés. Or have a picnic at Sarphatipark, and appreciate its serene ambiance while resting surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and ponds.
Albert Cuyp Market
Head to the Albert Cuyp Market, the largest and most renowned outdoor market in the Netherlands. The market is open six days weekly (closed Sundays) and closes at 17:00.
If enjoying local cuisine interests you, Albert Cuyp Market should definitely be incorporated into a two day Amsterdam itinerary. Shoppers will find options ranging from traditional Dutch waffles and fresh fish to fruits and vegetables or shoes. Be sure to try the freshly made stroopwafels on site (NOT GLUTEN FREE – but pre-made gluten free stroopwafels are sold at the market).
If seeking an alternate dining experience in Amsterdam, check out Puri Mas. They serve gluten free Indonesian cuisine using gluten free ingredients in almost all dishes (employing tamari soy sauce). Highly recommended is trying their rice table, though the à la carte menu also offers selections.
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Where to Stay in Amsterdam
I have a comprehensive guide on the top places to lodge in Amsterdam, but if you don’t have time to review that detailed guide, here is a abbreviated summary.
The three best neighborhoods to stay in are:
Jordaan – My overall preferred location to reside in Amsterdam. Super central, full of great eateries and cafes, and much more.
De Pijp – The place to stay in Amsterdam for fashionable foodies. Don’t forget the Albert Cuyp Market.”
ADVANTAGES: You’ll find excellent perspectives of both the cityscape and mountain ridges from this hilltop locale. It’s also home to some of the top-rated restaurants, and the quality of those establishments have marvelous views. Namely Linger (opt to dine during happy hour)..
The following are excellent places to stay for a weekend in Amsterdam
Het Kabinet: Hip, well located bed and breakfast in De Pijp. A few blocks from the tram to connect you to the entire city.
Charming Accommodation Near Park: Welcoming one-bedroom apartment located just outside Vondelpark. Personal experience staying in the area affirms its close proximity to central Amsterdam via tram, nearby grocery shopping, and lower cost relative to trendier neighborhoods. A second option within the same building exists.
Got More Time in Amsterdam?
If given extra time in Amsterdam, here are three activities I would enjoy.
Head to the Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a well known brewery located in Amsterdam next to a windmill. You can either take a tour of the brewing process or relax with a beer outside while taking in the scenic surroundings.
Soccer fans should check out a tour of Johan Cruijff Arena.
Travelers can explore the pastoral scenery and traditional culture of the Netherlands on a half-day countryside excursion involving local landmarks like windmills and tastes of regional cheeses. Alternatively, visitors can pedal through the picturesque landscape by bicycle – experiencing daily life as the locals do when touring the Netherlands.
How to Get Around in Amsterdam
Amsterdam possesses a robust and efficient public transportation network consisting of buses, trams, and trains that will transport you efficiently from point to point. Since you only have two days in Amsterdam, you’ll value the swiftness. Not only that, it’s a pleasant ride. If only similar public transit systems existed here in the US.
You can purchase a day pass that’s good for anywhere from 24 hours to 7 days, or you can buy a one hour pass. Both are available from the bus or tram operator. Heads up, as of 2018 you have to pay with card – no cash! You can also buy tickets for public transportation in advance here.
Amsterdam is also very walkable, and it’s always a pleasant stroll when you’re surrounded by canals, flowers and bicycles. As much as possible, I’d try to walk between destinations.
Last, but certainly not least, you could rent a bike and use Amsterdam’s extensive network of bike lanes. When visiting Amsterdam, bike travel fits right in!
How to Get from Amsterdam to the Airport (and Vice Versa)
And my favored part of the whole experience was the owner, who was distributing the gelato, telling us about the origin of the pistachios, hazelnuts (both from different areas of Italy), citrus fruits (from the Santa Monica Farmers Market) and more. They utilize real ingredients, and it displays in the taste.
What is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?
I believe the spring and fall seasons offer the best times to visit Amsterdam. While summer may provide the best weather, huge numbers of tourists at that time can make for an quite unpleasant experience. I’ve been there in September, and it was absolutely lovely. Warm. Sunny. Not too crowded.
In winter, it`ll be grey, but it will also be relatively empty. If you can tolerate the grey and occasional rain and snow, you`ll find some great flight and hotel deals in the winter months.
Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in Europe. Experiencing the canals, tasting traditional cheeses, and visiting the historic locales in the Red Light District make for a memorable trip.
I could happily explore Amsterdam indefinitely without becoming bored. The diversity of activities, sights, beverages, and certainly foods, is astonishing.
If traveling to Europe, here are some other posts you may find interesting
- Paris Guide for Gluten Allergies
- Best Paris Areas to Lodge
- Celiac-Friendly Rome Dining
- 4 Day Paris Guide for Beginners
- 4 Day Semi-Hidden Gem: Budapest
- 4 Day Guide to Eternal Rome
Don’t overlook my guide to 4 days in San Francisco (from a local’s perspective). I’ve been in San Francisco for five years now, and have explored nearly every corner of the city.
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