3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect 72-Hour Itinerary

Wondering how to spend the perfect 3 days in Amsterdam? This gorgeous city of full of history and culture – here’s the perfect itinerary for a long weekend.

A gorgeous city riddled with canals, history and tiny houses; Amsterdam can make the perfect European city break. The capital of the Netherlands, there are so many amazing things to do in Amsterdam whatever the weather.

Some of the best of Amsterdam’s attractions can actually be found by venturing off the well-trodden tourist trail in the centre. For off-the-beaten-track gems and timeless classics, here’s how to spend the perfect 72 hours in Amsterdam. 

Day 1: Museums, Beer, and a Beautiful Green Space

So, without further ado, here is the perfect 3-day Amsterdam itinerary. We’ll start day one with some of the city’s most spectacular attractions and two museums that you’re definitely going to want to cross off your Amsterdam bucket list.

Containing over a million objects in total and over 35,000 books, the museum will take you a while to look around. Nevertheless, it’s totally worth adding to your 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary.

Plus, as well as the contents of the museum, the actual building is stunning too and one of the most impressive examples of architecture in the city.

It is a huge museum though. You’ll probably need around 4 hours here at a minimum because there’s just so much to see.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to pose next to the famous iAmsterdam sign outside! 

✅ You’ll need to buy tickets in advance for this fantastic museum.

13:30 – Grab a Drink at the Heineken Experience 

Next on day one, head to the Heineken Experience. Located just a 7-minute walk from the Rijksmuseum, this is another of the most famous spots in Amsterdam.

Home to one of the world’s most famous beers, Amsterdam’s Heineken Experience is a super fun activity. The tour doesn’t just show you how the brew is made.

It also shows you the history of Heineken, a collection of different beer mats from different ages, a 3D ride which takes you through the brewing process and, of course, a few cheeky drinks too! It’s actually pretty impressive and will be a great day out whether you’re a fan of Heineken or not!

✅ This is such a fun experience in Amsterdam!

16:00 – Learn the History of Van Gogh 

Next, retrace your steps towards the Rijksmuseum but branch off towards Vondelpark. We aren’t stopping here yet, however, because one of the final things on the first day of this itinerary is to explore the Van Gogh Museum.

One of the most famous artists in the world, Vincent Van Gogh was incredibly talented. Located just a 13-minute walk from the Heineken Experience, the Van Gogh Museum is a fascinating place to learn more about the history of both the man and his work.  

As well as a superb collection of artworks from Van Gogh, the museum also contains the works of Monet and Matisse. Plus, explore the letters, and drawings and discover the interesting past of this world-renowned artist.

I reckon you’ll need around an hour here, but maybe longer if you’re a lover of art.

✅ This is an incredible experience in Amsterdam, even if you aren’t an art fan!

17:30 – Relax in Vondelpark 

The final stop on your first day in Amsterdam is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. Vondelpark is a gorgeous green space in the south of the city.

You’ll find plenty of trees, sculptures and several small lakes as well. It’s the perfect to cycle through or go for a leisurely stroll, the part is simply beautiful. There’s also an open-air theatre, so you might even be able to catch a performance.

In the summer months, this is a great place to sit with a picnic and a packet of Stroopwafels! In the winter, it’s a great place for a stroll among the bare trees. Either way, it’s a great place to relax, right in the centre of Amsterdam and the perfect end to the day.

Day 2: Anne Frank and the Quirky Side of Amsterdam

For the second day on this itinerary, we’re going to explore another important landmark from Amsterdam’s history. From there, we’ll be exploring a lot of the weird and wonderful side of the city, including the Red Light District.

9:00 – Visit Anne Frank’s House 

Start day 2 with a trip to Anne Frank’s House.

One of Amsterdam’s and Netherlands’ most famous attractions, this is the place where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Second World War. This is a fascinating dip into a tragic past.

It’s now been turned into a museum and serves as a prominent reminder of the harsh injustice and persecution suffered by the Jews in that era.

It’s worth taking the tour however, I suggest getting there early if possible because queues can be quite long, especially during peak times.

✅ This is one of the most interesting attractions in Amsterdam.

11:00 – Explore the Jordaan Neighbourhood

For classic Amsterdam vibes and a beautiful area, I absolutely love the Jordaan Neighbourhood. This charming and historic district is known for its picturesque canals and narrow streets. If you’ve ever seen photographs of Amsterdam in a guidebook, you’ve more than likely seen this place.

It was originally a working-class area established in the early 17th century. But these days, it’s one of the most desirable areas of Amsterdam. You’ll find art galleries, boutiques, cosy cafes, and bustling markets. It’s also home to Anne Frank’s House, so has a historic side too.

Whatever you’re interested in, it’s well worth a wander around this area.

12:00 – See the Royal Palace 

The next stop is just a quick 12-minute walk from Anne Frank’s House. Located in Dam Square, this impressive structure was originally built as a town hall. However, it was later used as the Dutch Royal Palace and the official residence of the King of Holland.

12:30 – See the Sex Culture 

Admittedly this can be rather bizarre and not to everyone’s taste, but it’s still an important part of Amsterdam’s culture. Amsterdam’s Red-Light District is another thing the city is known for. It’s worth a visit during your 3 days in Amsterdam, even if it’s just to see what all the fuss is about!

Although if you do visit, be sure to have your wits about you. The area is heavily policed, but you could still end up without your belongings if you’re not careful. Best to go in the daytime if you’re unsure. 

I also recommend exploring the Red Lights Secrets Museum for a deeper dive into the history of the district. It’s another super interesting part of Amsterdam’s culture.

As well as the Red-Light District, Amsterdam also has a Sex Museum. Exploring the history of sex, the human body and the evolution of it, it’s another quite strange experience.

You’ll find figures, animated statues, giant sculptures of certain body parts and many black-and-white photographs of people engaging in erotic activities. It’s much tamer than the Red-Light district though and shows a more entertaining look at how things have changed over the years.

✅ If you like the weird and wonderful, you’ll love this place in Amsterdam!

14:30 – Explore the EYE Film Institute 

From the lookout, the EYE Institute is literally 1 minute around the corner. One of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks, the Institute sits proudly on the banks of the IJ. Film fans will utterly love it here and you will also get inside totally free if you purchased the iAmsterdam Card.

Inside you’ll find a vast museum, many modern exhibits, an extensive film library and a cinema. There’s also a wonderful restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat on the terrace, overlooking the canals. 

16:00 – See the City from the Sky 

I’ve always been a fan of cityscapes. One of my favourite things to do in a new city is to find the best birds-eye-view! In Amsterdam, that is the rooftop bar of the A’DAM viewpoint.  

To get here will only take you 15 minutes, but you’ll need to take the Buiksloterweg ferry across the canal. The ADAM Lookout stands tall over Amsterdam’s relatively low skyline.

It’s a 22-story high building featuring a collection of impressive bars, restaurants, (including a revolving one!), and an observation deck.

One of the most unique things about this place is that you can do a range of extreme sports from the top deck. You can bungee jump from the tower or experience Europe’s largest swing and plummet off the top that way! 

17:00 – Go on a Cruise of Amsterdam’s Canals

I don’t think you can visit Amsterdam and not go on a classic canal tour. Despite the cliché, it’s a truly beautiful experience and some of the buildings you pass go back centuries.

You can easily book a canal tour from the Damrak canal near the train station, and there often isn’t any need to book in advance. However, if you want to guarantee a spot, you can book a tour here.

Canal cruises usually last around an hour and will take you past some of the most beautiful parts of Amsterdam and the most well-known buildings.

Stretching for miles, the dramatic waterways are one of the reasons that Amsterdam is so famous. Dedicate time to explore the stunning Emperor’s Canal during your 3 days in Amsterdam.

✅ This is my favourite Canal Cruise in Amsterdam!

19:00 – Eat at De Hallen’s Food Stalls 

If you’ve ever taken a trip to Camden Market in London, then you’ll know that food markets and street food stalls can be wonderful places to get lost. For Amsterdam’s version, head over to a former tram depot in the Oud-West neighbourhood which dates back to 1902.

To get here from the Canal Dock will be around a 35-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take the tram 17 to Bilderdijkstraat and walk a final 5 minutes to the food hall.

Also known as Foodhallen, as well as delicious food stalls scattered around a central bar, you’ll also find a few independent stores selling craft and fashion wares. You’ll also find a small cinema, making this the perfect spot for a great evening out during your time in Amsterdam.

Day 3: A Day trip Outside Amsterdam’s City Centre

For the final day of this 3 day Amsterdam itinerary, we’re going to explore a little outside of the main city centre. These are classic sights in the Netherlands, and you can’t go wrong with them!

9:00 – Visit the Windmills 

Can you really visit the Netherlands and not see the windmills? It’s such an important part of Dutch culture and also they’re just so picturesque. On your third day in Amsterdam, take a day trip to some of the surrounding countryside.

Considering you’re staying in the city centre, I recommend taking a train to the historic and cultural city of Haarlem. This city is just 20 minutes from Amsterdam Central by train and is one of the prettiest examples of windmills close to the Dutch capital.

Alternatively, if you’d rather head for somewhere a little less known but with equally picturesque windmills, winding canals and a great selection of shops and cafes, you could also head to the gorgeous Zaanse Schans. 

This is located around 45 minutes by train north of Amsterdam and is a beautiful neighbourhood full of windmills, traditional green houses, and boats bobbing around the waterways.

I recommend spending around half a day exploring one of these areas. There’s plenty to do including small museums, mills, and simply wandering the streets and admiring the architecture.

✅ This is the best way to see the Windmills and Tulip Fields.

13:00 – wander the Tulip Fields 

The second thing to cross off your Netherlands bucket list is tulip fields and I recommend spending the second half of your final day in Amsterdam doing just this! These beautiful blooms are another Dutch cliché, but so pretty it can be hard to resist!

It’ll certainly be you’ve decided to visit Haarlem, you can just hop on a train there from Haarlem Station. You’ll need to change a Leiden, but it’s still pretty easy to reach.

You can also go to Keukenhof, which is around an hour from Haarlem as well. This is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam and one of the most popular flower fields to visit around the capital. Plus, you can always book a full-day tour to Haarlem and see both tulip fields and the windmills.

Alternatively, if you’re visiting in April, simply head to the Tulip Festival for an entire day dedicated to the delightful blossoms.

You’ll most likely spend the rest of the day exploring the flower fields, so head back to the city in the evening for a bite to eat to end your fantastic 3 days in Amsterdam.

✅ This is the best way to see the Windmills and Tulip Fields.

If you have longer than 3 days in Amsterdam…

Throughout your three days in Amsterdam itinerary, I’ve tried to give you the best of the city, whilst also including some classic sights on the outskirts. However, if you find yourself with longer than just a few days in the capital, here are some of the best things to do.

Take a trip to Efetling 

This fantastical theme park is about a 2-hour train ride from Amsterdam and the perfect family day out. If you have more time, you could stay a little longer. However, depending on the queues, you can probably get most of the park done in a day.

You can easily arrange a day trip to Efteling.

Themed around fairy tales the park is like a Dutch Disneyland and is full of quirky statues and little gnomes. There’s a great combination of rides for all the family to enjoy, so you’ll have a great day at Efteling, even if you don’t like loop-the-loops.

✅ This is the easiest way to see Efteling from Amsterdam.

Go on a Bicycle Tour

There are lots of different ways to get around Amsterdam and one of my favourites is by bicycle. And going on a bicycle tour is possibly the best way to tour the city whilst learning about what you see.

This is a quintessentially Dutch way to explore the city’s scenic landscapes and vibrant neighbourhoods. As one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities, Amsterdam has a huge network of dedicated bike paths.

These tours will often take you through iconic areas such as the historic Jordaan district, the bustling markets of the Albert Cuypstraat, and the serene beauty of Vondelpark. You’ll also be passing by the city’s charming canals, picturesque bridges, and architectural landmarks.

A bicycle tour is a leisurely way to experience Amsterdam’s unique culture and scenic beauty.

✅ This is a fantastic way to see Amsterdam.

Visit the Amsterdam Maritime Museum

Another of the best museums in the city, this one is ideal if you love the ocean. Given its many canals, it isn’t surprising that Amsterdam has a lot of history across the seas. The Amsterdam Maritime Museum is dedicated to the rich nautical history of the Netherlands.

It’s located in a 17th-century naval storehouse, which is interesting enough on its own! Inside the museum offers an extensive collection of maritime artefacts, maps, ship models, and artworks that illustrate the Dutch seafaring legacy.

One of the highlights of this place is the full-scale replica of the 18th-century East Indiaman ship. But there are also plenty of interactive exhibits and immersive experiences telling the stories of naval battles, oceanic trade, and maritime exploration.

Getting around Amsterdam

Like a lot of beautiful cities in Europe, Amsterdam has a very well-connected public transport route. There are countless ways to get about the city, from trams to trains and they’re all super affordable as well.

If you’re travelling to Amsterdam from another city in Europe, it’s also pretty simple. I use Omio for all my train travel as it’s super affordable and easy to use.

The iAmsterdam Card will offer you unlimited use of the GVB public transport system for up to 72 hours depending on which card you buy. The 24-hour card is €60, the 48-hour is €85 and the 72-hour card is €100.

This handy card also gives you discounts or free entry to plenty of the city’s attractions and 24-hour bicycle hire!

✅ This is the easiest way to see Efteling from Amsterdam.

Public Transport in Amsterdam

If you choose not to buy the card, then you can still easily get around Amsterdam by train, bus, tram, metro or ferry. You can use most of these with a public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart), which is a bit like an Oyster card in London.

You can also buy them from all the GVB ticket vending machines, use them like a debit card and top them up when you need more credit. Or, you can purchase one in advance here.

A single return costs €6 and an unlimited day ticket is €9 – so obviously the day ticket is much better value. You can also buy a 3-day ticket for €21.

The city is also quite compact, so you may not need this at all, as it’s easy enough to navigate the capital on foot. 

Ferries are slightly different. The most popular route is simply across the river. The Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg is perfect for those who want to visit attractions such as the EYE Filmmuseum and Tolhuistuin.

They’re also extremely efficient, rarely taking longer than 10 minutes to arrive. The ferries that cross the river are accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and mopeds and are completely free.

✅ Having one of these makes getting around Amsterdam much easier!

Rent a Bicycle 

Easily the best and most fun way to get around Amsterdam is by bicycle. There are actually more bicycles in the Netherlands than there are people, which just goes to show how much the Dutch love their bikes.

An easy and efficient way to get around, you’ll find plenty of bike hire stands scattered around that are fairly inexpensive. Alternatively, you can hire bikes for the day online.

Where to stay for 3 Days in Amsterdam

Like any capital city, staying right in the centre is never the cheapest option. Amsterdam is not known for being a European budget travel destination, but you can find a few hidden gems if you know where to look.  

Luxury Accommodation

For a luxury Dutch stay the Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam is a gorgeous hotel. Located on the IJ River where the ships used to leave for Jakarta, you will find a boutique, Indonesian-inspired hotel. There are panoramic views of the waterside from both the room balconies and the wellness pool.

For a more central hotel, the Eden Hotel Amsterdam is also a wonderful choice. Located in the centre of Amsterdam, you will be just a short walk from famous landmarks like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gough Museum. Perfect for exploring the city! 

Mid-range Accommodation

For a mid-range stay, the Jaz Amsterdam Hotel has a seriously funky vibe! Just 15 minutes from the city centre, the hotel has a sauna, steam room, and an on-site restaurant.

The XO Hotels Couture is another great option. It offers free private parking, and convenient locations just a short tram ride to the museum quarter and other Amsterdam attractions. You’ll also find an on-site a-la-carte restaurant, smart TV and Nespresso coffee maker. 

Budget Accommodation

For a cheaper option, staying outside the city is your best bet. Mercure Hotel Amsterdam West is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre and a 10-minute drive from the airport. It’s also just a few minutes walk from a pretty lake and national park.

Also, Crowne Plaza Amsterdam is an affordable 4* hotel. This is where we stayed when we visited the city. They offer a free airport shuttle, and from the airport, you can easily catch a train to the city centre.

This is a method we took full advantage of when we stayed. It’s not a long journey and can save you some serious cash by not staying in the heart of the city. 

✅ Search for more beautiful hotels in Amsterdam, here.

Is 3 Days in Amsterdam Enough?

3 days is a great way to get a taste of what Amsterdam has to offer as well as giving you a chance to explore a little outside of the city.

I don’t think it’s enough to see everything that Amsterdam has to offer as there’s so much to see in this city. There are so many museums and even just neighbourhoods that you can walk around.

Nonetheless, if you only have 3 days – perhaps you’re exploring other destinations in Europe – it’s enough to see the main sights in the city.

Overall, if you’re planning a trip to this fantastic city, I hope this article has given you plenty of inspiration for Amsterdam.

👉 Planning a trip around Europe? Check out my favourite beautiful weekend breaks.