17 Best Things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in 4 days

Introduction

For most, Amsterdam doesn’t need much of an introduction. It’s easily one of the most famous cities in Europe—and for good reason.

The capital and largest city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is home to just under 900,000 people spread over 219km². It’s located in the province of North Holland and is often nicknamed the “Venice of the North” thanks to the many canals weaving through its historic streets.

Whether you’re into wandering through charming old neighborhoods, checking out world-class museums, or partying till late, Amsterdam really has it all.

The Netherlands or Holland? We also used to think “Holland” and “The Netherlands” were the same. Turns out, Holland is actually just a region within the Netherlands, where Amsterdam happens to be located. Historically, Holland was the country’s economic powerhouse, which is probably why the name stuck in people’s minds internationally.

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam

Getting there

Getting to Amsterdam is pretty straightforward, whether you’re coming from nearby or from overseas. The city is super well-connected by air, train, and even bus.

By Plane: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is one of Europe’s busiest and best-connected airports. It’s about 20 minutes from the city center by train, with departures every few minutes. Trains from the airport arrive directly at the Centraal Station.

By Train: If you’re coming from nearby countries like France, Belgium, or Germany, the train is one of the best options. Thalys, Eurostar, and ICE high-speed trains connect Amsterdam with cities like Paris, Brussels, and Cologne in just a few hours.

By Bus: FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer very affordable connections to Amsterdam from many European cities. It’s slower than the train but can be great for budget travel.

By Car: You can drive to Amsterdam, but parking is a headache and expensive. If you’re road-tripping, best is to park in a P+R (Park and Ride) lot outside the center and take public transport in.

By Bike (yes, really): If you’re already in the Netherlands or a nearby region, biking to Amsterdam is a thing. The bike paths are great and super safe. Just know you’ll need a decent level of fitness for longer rides.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving Around

Getting around Amsterdam is really easy, and honestly, it’s part of the charm. The city is compact, bike-friendly, and well-connected by public transport — making it ideal for exploring without a car.

Walk or Bike: The city is made for walking and cycling. Most places you’ll want to visit are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Renting a bike is also a great way to feel like a local, and there are plenty of places offering daily or multi-day rentals.

Public Transport: The city has a solid network of trams, buses, and metro lines. The tram is usually the best option for getting around the city quickly. You’ll need an OV-chipkaart or a valid travel pass to use public transport — which is where the I Amsterdam City Card really comes in handy.

I Amsterdam City Card: This card is probably the best deal if you plan to explore a lot. It includes:

• Unlimited access to all public transportation in Amsterdam (trams, buses, metros, ferries)
• Entry to 70+ museums and attractions (like Rijksmuseum, NEMO Science Museum, and ARTIS Zoo)
• A free canal cruise, which is kind of a must-do in Amsterdam
• Discounts on restaurants, bike rentals, and more

You can choose a card valid for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days, depending on how long you’re staying. It’s a solid way to save money and skip a bunch of lines while seeing the best of what the city offers.

Check all your bus options on Busbud — it’s simple to compare routes, prices, and book your tickets in advance.

When to Visit

Amsterdam is beautiful year-round, but the experience really depends on the kind of vibe you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown to help you figure out when to go:

• Spring (March to May): This is one of the most popular times to visit — and for a good reason. The tulips are in full bloom, especially if you head out to the Keukenhof gardens. Expect temperatures around 8–15°C (46–59°F), with some rain here and there, so pack layers and maybe a light rain jacket.
• Summer (June to August): Long days, warm weather, and tons of festivals. This is peak tourist season, so prices go up and crowds thicken. Temps usually sit between 17–22°C (63–72°F), and you’ll have the best chance of sunny days. Perfect for picnics in Vondelpark or canal boat rides.
• Autumn (September to November): Still a good time to visit. Fewer tourists, lower prices, and the city gets covered in golden leaves. Expect temperatures around 10–17°C (50–63°F) in September, dropping closer to 5–10°C (41–50°F) by November. It gets rainy, but the city’s moody charm really comes out.
• Winter (December to February): The city in winter feels cozy and festive, especially with all the lights and the holiday markets. Snow is rare, but it gets cold — around 0–6°C (32–43°F). The canals occasionally freeze (though less often now), and it’s a great time to enjoy the quieter side of the city.

Our tip: Late April through June is probably the sweet spot — tulips are blooming, the weather is mild, and the city isn’t yet overrun by summer crowds.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Here are three great places to stay in Amsterdam depending on your travel style and budget:

(€) Tribe Amsterdam City: This stylish and affordable option is located in the north of the city, close to the North-South metro line (Noord station), which gets you to the city center in just a few minutes. The design is sleek and modern, with smart tech features and a lively social vibe in the lobby. Perfect for digital nomads or travelers who want something cool without blowing the budget.

(€€) Hotel V Nesplein: Located right in the heart of the city near Dam Square, this hotel mixes urban comfort with a touch of vintage flair. The rooms are spacious (which isn’t a given in Amsterdam), and there’s a popular restaurant downstairs. You’ll be walking distance from most top attractions, yet the hotel feels tucked away enough to offer a quiet night.

(€€€) Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam: If you’re in for a luxury experience, this is one of Amsterdam’s classics. Right on Dam Square, it’s elegant, well-equipped, and the breakfast room overlooks the Royal Palace — not a bad way to start the day. You’re in the very center of the city, with everything just a few steps away.

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam

What to Eat

Here’s a quick food guide with some must-try bites when in Amsterdam:

• Stroopwafel: A local classic. These thin waffles are sandwiched together with a layer of caramel-like syrup in the middle. Best enjoyed warm from a street market.
• Dutch Pancakes (Pannenkoeken): Much thinner than American ones, but not quite crêpes either. Served with sweet or savory toppings — from powdered sugar and apples to cheese and bacon.
• Dutch Cheese: You can’t go wrong with tasting a few varieties: Gouda is the most famous, but don’t miss Geitenkaas (goat cheese) or the nutty Maasdammer. Many shops will let you sample before buying.
• Dutch Breakfast: Simple but hearty. Expect fresh bread, cheese, cold cuts, boiled eggs, and often hagelslag — chocolate sprinkles on buttered toast (yes, really). Cafés usually serve it with coffee or tea.

Things to do in Amsterdam

Visit Amsterdam Centraal and Discover the City’s Iconic Train Station

You’ll likely pass through it no matter how you arrive. Amsterdam Centraal isn’t just a transit hub—it’s a beautiful neo-Renaissance building that dates back to 1889. Its detailed facade, grand halls, and riverside location make it worth slowing down for. Just outside, you’ll also spot one of the world’s largest bike parks—a true symbol of how the city moves.

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam

Stroll Through Jordaan

One of Amsterdam’s nicest districts, Jordaan is all about narrow canals, charming streets, and a laid-back vibe. It’s packed with indie boutiques, cozy pubs, and trendy cafés. Don’t miss the Noordermarkt market, where you’ll find everything from vintage clothes and antiques to local produce and handmade jewelry.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Walk Through the Red Light District

Originally known as “De Wallen,” the Red Light District is Amsterdam’s most famous and controversial area. While known for its windows with sex workers and legal cannabis coffee shops, it’s also a historic part of the city.

You’ll find narrow alleys lit by red neon, sex shops, peep shows, and even museums that dive into the history and culture of the district. It’s a place that surprises many, and whether you just walk through or join a guided tour, it offers a unique perspective on Dutch liberalism.

Rent a Bike and Explore Like a Local

Biking around the canals like a true Dutch local is hands down one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam. The city is built for bikes, with dedicated lanes and a relaxed pace that makes riding easy. Once you’ve explored a bit on foot, rent a bike and cruise through the streets, cross over scenic bridges, stop by hidden courtyards, and feel the rhythm of the city like locals do every day.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Visit the Rijksmuseum

Dive into Dutch art and history at the Rijksmuseum, the national museum showcasing everything from medieval masterpieces to 20th-century works. It’s also where you’ll find Rembrandt’s famous Night Watch. The building itself is a piece of art, and the gardens outside are a great spot for a little break.

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam

Explore the Amsterdam Museum

Step into the story of the city at the Amsterdam Museum. Housed in the former city orphanage, this museum gives a solid overview of Amsterdam’s evolution—from a small medieval settlement to the buzzing capital it is today. A good stop to understand the context behind everything you see while walking around.

Discover the Van Gogh Museum

Spend some time with the emotional world of Van Gogh. This museum holds the largest collection of his paintings and letters, and walks you through his life, from early sketches to the most iconic works. You’ll also discover some of his lesser-known contemporaries and influences that shaped his unique style.

Visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum

A small but charming museum that tells the story of the Netherlands’ most iconic flower. It’s quiet, easy to explore, and gives you a nice insight into how tulips became such a big deal here.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Learn at the Amsterdam Cheese Museum

Just next door to the tulips, this little museum dives into the history of Dutch cheese. You’ll also get to taste a bunch of varieties, which honestly makes it worth stopping by even if you’re not a museum person.

Discover Red Light Secrets – Museum of Prostitution

A quirky and eye-opening museum tucked in the heart of the Red Light District. It explores the history and reality of sex work in Amsterdam, letting you step inside a former brothel and learn about the lives behind the glass.

Explore Body Worlds

A unique and slightly controversial museum that displays preserved human and animal bodies in lifelike poses. The goal is to teach you about anatomy and how our bodies function. It’s not for everyone, but definitely memorable.

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam

Experience the Heineken Brewery Tour

Take a fun and interactive walk through the old Heineken brewery. Learn how the beer is made, see the old equipment, and wrap it all up with a tasting session at the end.

Visit the Anne Frank House

Step inside the house where Anne Frank and her family hid during WWII. Her story, told through her diary, is known worldwide, and visiting this museum is a powerful and emotional experience. You’ll need to book tickets well in advance.

Relax in Vondelpark

If you want to escape the buzz of the city for a while, this 47-hectare park is the place to do it. It’s the largest city park in Amsterdam and definitely the most well-known in the Netherlands.

Cruise with Lovers Canal Cruises

Discover Amsterdam from a different perspective by hopping on a 1-hour canal cruise. A visit to the city wouldn’t be complete without seeing it from the water.

Wander Through Zaanse Schans

Take the train north of Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a charming neighbourhood in Zaandam where you can stroll past historic windmills and green wooden houses that recreate an 18th-century village vibe. Visit a real working windmill, taste local cheese, and stock up on Dutch chocolate.

Explore Haarlem

Just a short ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a medieval city that was once a bustling North Sea trading port. Walk its cobblestone streets, admire the classic Dutch architecture, and soak in the slower pace of this beautiful town.

4-day Amsterdam Itinerary

Day 1

• Start at Amsterdam Centraal
• Wander through Jordaan
• Walk around the Red Light District (De Wallen)
• Visit Red Light Secrets – Museum of Prostitution
• Explore Body Worlds

Day 2:

• Take a short trip to explore the charming medieval city of Haarlem
• Dive into Dutch art and history at the Rijksmuseum
• Learn about the city’s past at the Amsterdam Museum
• Join the fun at the Heineken Experience and end with a fresh pint

Day 3:

• Hop on a train and wander around the windmills of Zaanse Schans
• Discover the story behind the tulip craze at the Tulip Museum
• Taste and learn about Dutch cheese at the Cheese Museum
• Visit the moving Anne Frank House (book in advance)
•  

Day 4:

• Rent a bike and ride like a local through the city streets
• Unwind with a peaceful walk or picnic in Vondelpark
• Hop on a canal cruise with Lovers and see Amsterdam from the water

Here are all your accommodation options in Amsterdam