A Guide for a One-Day Excursion in Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the city of canals and vibrant culture, offers an abundance of experiences within a day. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your 24-hour visit.
Start your day at Dam Square, the heart of the city, where you can marvel at the historic centre, including the Nieuwe Kerk and the Royal Palace. Nearby, you'll find Anne Frank's House, a poignant and moving experience that requires one to two hours of your time.
Next, meander through the charming Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes), filled with quaint shops and cosy cafés. Don't miss the floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt, lined along the Singel Canal.
For art enthusiasts, Museumplein is a must-visit. Here, you can choose between the Rijksmuseum, home to the country's largest collection of art and artefacts, or the Van Gogh Museum, housing the world's largest collection of Vincent Van Gogh's work. Allow at least one hour for each visit.
If you're seeking a unique experience, the Heineken Experience offers an interactive tour of the former Heineken brewery, ending at the tasting room.
Spend the afternoon freely wandering along the canals and the picturesque streets of the Old Town and the city centre. For a different perspective, consider a canal cruise from Damrak. Smaller open-air boats offer better views of Amsterdam's iconic waterways.
For those who prefer a guided tour, options include walking or bike tours, classic boat cruises, evening canal cruises, Red Light District tours, Red Light District and Coffee Shop tours, and Life of Anne Frank and World War II walking tours. The popular Yellow Bike tour lasts under two hours and provides a great introduction to the city.
To save time and money on museums, consider purchasing the Museumkaart if you plan to visit multiple sites. Alternatively, pre-booking tickets for museums in advance is recommended to avoid queuing.
Amsterdam's centre is compact and walkable, but renting a bike for around £7 an hour is an option for going farther. A one-day GVB Public Transport Ticket offers unlimited travel on all trams, buses, ferries, and the metro.
Before wrapping up your day, take a moment to visit the "Old Church", Oude Kerk, which has stood in Amsterdam's city centre since 1306. The medieval wooden vault, dating from 1390, is the largest in Europe.
Lastly, if you're missing a taste of home, a British and American food shop can be found on nearby Leedesgracht.
Remember, it is possible to see Amsterdam in one day, but taking your time to immerse yourself in the city's culture and history will make your visit even more memorable.
[1] Amsterdam Tourism and Convention Board [2] Yellow Bike Tours [3] Rijksmuseum [4] Van Gogh Museum [5] Museumkaart
- To maximize your experience in Amsterdam, consider purchasing a one-day GVB Public Transport Ticket for unlimited travel on all trams, buses, ferries, and the metro, especially if you plan to visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum, both located in Museumplein.
- After exploring the art museums, take a break at one of the quaint cafés in the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) or grab a bite at a British and American food shop on nearby Leedesgracht to try a taste of home.
- As the day comes to an end, visit the "Old Church", Oude Kerk, which has stood in Amsterdam's city centre since 1306. The medieval wooden vault, dating from 1390, is the largest in Europe before wrapping up your memorable 24-hour tour with the Amsterdam Tourism and Convention Board. If you're interested in a guided tour, consider booking a Yellow Bike Tour for a great introduction to the city, or the popular Life of Anne Frank and World War II walking tour for a poignant historical experience. For a more relaxed option, rent a bike or take a canal cruise to explore the city at your own pace.
