Nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, this vibrant Dutch city is filled with history, art, and modern flair. Famously known as the “Venice of the North,” and for a good reason. 165 canals wind their way through the city, creating the iconic landscape.

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The busses and trains are easy to navigate. Use your credit card to tap in and out. Just make sure to tap out each time. Lesson learned. The 9292 APP can give you up to date travel planning and help you route your course around the city. To be honest, we walked most of the time. The bus from the airport was actually cheaper and quicker than the train to our hotel. It was just a 20 minute ride and cost around 6 euros per person.

Location wise, Amsterdam is very walkable and public transportation makes it easy to get around. We chose to stay city center near Leidseplein, at the Krisotel. The hotel was great, perfect location and moderately priced. The staff were always friendly and helpful. The room was basic, but clean and comfortable.

If you plan on visiting as many museums as you can, I recommend purchasing the  I Amsterdam Card. We chose this option because it gave you access to the most museums and that was our goal. There are other options if museums are not your thing. The card becomes active the first time you use it. You can choose 24 hours starting at 60 euros, up to 120 hours for 125 euros. We did the 48 hours option for 85 euros. It paid for itself. I believe we managed 4 museums and a discount at The Heineken Experience.

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Get ready, it’s going to be a busy week! This itinerary focuses heavily on art.

Day One

• Arrive early and head to breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam! Get to know your surroundings. Explore Dam Square, Museumplein, Jordaan District.
• Afternoon – Visit the Anne Frank Museum. You need to make reservations. They open up on Tuesdays, six weeks in advance.
• Evening – Visit a Brown Bar and get to know some locals!

Day Two – Art Scene, Amsterdam is a haven for art enthusiasts.

• Visit the Van Gogh Museum.
• Afternoon – Visit the Nemo Science Center.
• Evening – Stroll through the Red Light District. Amsterdam’s Red-Light District, is one of the most famous and oldest in the world. It is known for its distinctive red-lit windows, indicating areas where the workers offer their services legally. Do not take pictures of the workers.

Day Three – More Art

• Morning – Visit the Home of Rembrandt and see where he lived and painted some of his masterpieces.
• Afternoon – Visit the MOCO Museum for Banksy, Basquiat, and Warhol.
• Evening –Canal Cruise. If you’re there during the holiday season enjoy the Light Festival.

Day Four – Yes, More Art

• Morning – Visit The Rijksmuseum to discover Dutch art and history, including Rembrandt’s masterpiece The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid.
• Afternoon – Take the train to the Muiderslot Castle.
• Option two – Take the train to Zaanse Schans and tour the windmills. A quick train ride from Amsterdam and covered free with your I Amsterdam Card as well.

Day Five

• Morning -Day trip to Hague and visit the Mauritshuis Museum to see Vermeer’s famous Girl with the Pearl Earring. This was a bucket list for me.
• Evening – Have reservations for the Heineken Experience. Go to the rooftop if you can!

Amsterdam’s Top Museums – Must See Masterpieces will give you more detailed information on each museum!

If you have extra days visit Zaanse Schans to experience traditional Dutch windmills. Another fun museum is the KattenKabinet Museum. A quirky little museum completely dedicated to cats where you’ll even find a Picasso and Rembrandt.

If the weather is nice rent a bicycle (if you are experienced) or take a bike tour. Bicycles outnumber residents in Amsterdam, with an estimated 800,000 bicycles in the city. Be cautious! Make sure when you are walking to stay out of the bike lanes, always look before stepping out, and yield to the bikes.

Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. Situated on houseboats along the canal, it offers a vibrant array of flowers, bulbs, and souvenirs. Some say it’s overrated, I thought it was lovely and bought myself a souvenir.

No matter your itinerary, you’ll be captivated by Amsterdam’s charm, beauty, and friendly people. Safe travels!

Make sure to read EATING GLUTEN FREE IN AMSTERDAM for the best places to dine!

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