Is Amsterdam, Netherlands safe for tourists?

Amsterdam is generally safe for tourists, with well-patrolled areas and a friendly atmosphere. However, like any major city, it's important to stay vigilant and protect belongings, especially in crowded spots. Violent crime rates are low, making it a secure place for travelers.

How many days should I spend in Amsterdam, Netherlands?

A typical visit to Amsterdam is 3 to 4 days, allowing enough time to explore museums, canals, and neighborhoods. This duration offers a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation, covering major attractions and some local experiences without feeling rushed.

Is Amsterdam, Netherlands expensive to visit?

Amsterdam has an average cost of living around $2300 per month. Travelers can expect moderate expenses, with budget options available alongside mid-range and luxury choices. Costs for accommodation, food, and activities vary; planning ahead helps manage expenses effectively.

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during spring and early summer months when the weather is mild and tulip season is in full bloom. This period attracts many tourists, so expect more crowded attractions but pleasant outdoor conditions.

How to get around Amsterdam, Netherlands?

Amsterdam boasts a public transportation score of 8 out of 10. The city features an efficient network of trams, buses, and metros. Cycling is also popular. Tap water is safe to drink, which helps travelers stay hydrated without additional expense.

Amsterdam, Netherlands - canals and historic houses cover photo

2-Day Amsterdam: History, Art & Local Secrets

⚖️Balanced Mix🏛️Culture & History💎Hidden Gems & Local Spots

2 daysspring

Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's rich history, vibrant art, and secret local spots on this unforgettable 2-day spring adventure!

2-Day Amsterdam: History, Art & Local Secrets

⚖️Balanced Mix🏛️Culture & History💎Hidden Gems & Local Spots

2 daysspring

Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's rich history, vibrant art, and secret local spots on this unforgettable 2-day spring adventure!

← Amsterdam, Netherlands

Our #1 travel tip

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.

Local guide, 2-3 hours

Major sights, hidden gems, local stories

100% tip-based

Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best

You tip what feels right

At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right

I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Amsterdam, Netherlands, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Adrijana, founder of City Buddy

Browse FREE walking tours

Day 1Historical Heart & Hidden Gems

Morning

Free Walking Tour

~2 hours

Focus on tours that cover the historical center and mention any off-the-beaten-path alleyways or courtyards they explore. This provides a great overview and uncovers local secrets.

Book FREE walking tour

Late Morning

Rijksmuseum

4.7(110k reviews)~3 hours

Dedicate ample time to the Dutch Masters and historical artifacts. Look for any special exhibitions that delve into Dutch culture or history.

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Morning

Rijksmuseum

Dedicate ample time to the Dutch Masters and historical artifacts. Look for any special exhibitions that delve into Dutch culture or history.

4.7(110k reviews)~3 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Afternoon

Anne Frank House

4.5(74k reviews)~2 hours

Book tickets well in advance online as they sell out quickly. This poignant historical site requires a solemn approach and respectful reflection.

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Afternoon

Anne Frank House

Book tickets well in advance online as they sell out quickly. This poignant historical site requires a solemn approach and respectful reflection.

4.5(74k reviews)~2 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Afternoon

Amsterdam Canals

4.7(703 reviews)~2 hours

Take a canal cruise that avoids the busiest routes or focus on a walk through the quieter, picturesque side canals in the Jordaan or the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes).

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Afternoon

Amsterdam Canals

Take a canal cruise that avoids the busiest routes or focus on a walk through the quieter, picturesque side canals in the Jordaan or the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes).

4.7(703 reviews)~2 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Evening

Explore Jordaan District's hidden courtyards

~1 hours

Wander through the Jordaan district, specifically looking for 'hofjes' or hidden almshouses with tranquil courtyards, often tucked away behind unassuming doors on streets like Egelantiersgracht.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

BreakfastFind a street market or bakery and order fresh, warm stroopwafels. These thin waffles with a caramel syrup filling are a classic Dutch treat.$7

Breakfast

Find a street market or bakery and order fresh, warm stroopwafels. These thin waffles with a caramel syrup filling are a classic Dutch treat.

LunchLook for a casual eatery in the Jordaan district and try a traditional Dutch kroket sandwich on bread. It's a savory fried meat filling, often beef, served as a simple lunch.$18

Lunch

Look for a casual eatery in the Jordaan district and try a traditional Dutch kroket sandwich on bread. It's a savory fried meat filling, often beef, served as a simple lunch.

$18

DinnerEnjoy dinner at a traditional 'eetcafé' (eating cafe) in the Jordaan and pair your meal with a local Dutch beer. This offers a relaxed atmosphere and a taste of local brews alongside hearty Dutch cuisine.$18

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a traditional 'eetcafé' (eating cafe) in the Jordaan and pair your meal with a local Dutch beer. This offers a relaxed atmosphere and a taste of local brews alongside hearty Dutch cuisine.

$18

Amsterdam is very walkable and has excellent public transport, including trams, buses, and metro. Consider a day pass. Trams are often the most convenient for sightseeing. For taxis, use apps like Uber, Bolt, or Taxi.eu; expect a fare around $2.5/km.

Accommodation— Centrum (central canal district)

Stay in Centrum for easy access to major historical sites, museums, and the canal belt. It’s ideal for a culture and history enthusiast who also wants to explore hidden gems.

Hotel in Centrum (central canal district)

$100-150/night

Stay in Centrum for easy access to major historical sites, museums, and the canal belt. It’s ideal for a culture and history enthusiast who also wants to explore hidden gems.

Search hotels in this area

Day 2Art, Botany & Local Vibes

Morning

Van Gogh Museum

4.6(103k reviews)~2 hours

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time. Allow ample time to explore the extensive collection of his works.

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Morning

Van Gogh Museum

Book tickets online in advance to secure your entry time. Allow ample time to explore the extensive collection of his works.

4.6(103k reviews)~2 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Morning

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

4.4(12k reviews)~1.5 hours

Wander through the diverse plant collections, including the historical hothouses. Check for any special exhibitions or guided tours.

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Morning

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

Wander through the diverse plant collections, including the historical hothouses. Check for any special exhibitions or guided tours.

4.4(12k reviews)~1.5 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Afternoon

Visit a traditional 'brown cafe' for local beer

~1 hours

Head to the Jordaan district and find a cozy 'bruin café' like Cafe Chris. Order a local Dutch beer and soak in the historic atmosphere.

Late Afternoon

Visit the Jewish Historical Museum

4.4(2k reviews)~2 hours

Explore the rich history and culture of Jewish people in the Netherlands. The museum complex includes synagogues and a children's museum.

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Late Afternoon

Visit the Jewish Historical Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of Jewish people in the Netherlands. The museum complex includes synagogues and a children's museum.

4.4(2k reviews)~2 hours

Google Maps Directions Book tours & tickets View details, tips, opening times & more

Evening

Discover Amsterdam's underground music scene

~3 hours

Look for small venues in areas like De Pijp or Noord for live music. Search online for listings of local bands playing electronic or experimental genres.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

BreakfastGrab a quick breakfast at a local bakery near your accommodation and try a warm stroopwafel, a caramel-filled waffle cookie.$7

Breakfast

Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery near your accommodation and try a warm stroopwafel, a caramel-filled waffle cookie.

LunchFor lunch, find a traditional Dutch 'broodjeswinkel' (sandwich shop) and order a kroket sandwich, a creamy, deep-fried roll with a savory filling.$18

Lunch

For lunch, find a traditional Dutch 'broodjeswinkel' (sandwich shop) and order a kroket sandwich, a creamy, deep-fried roll with a savory filling.

$18

DinnerFor dinner, explore the De Pijp neighborhood and find a restaurant offering Indonesian-Dutch fusion cuisine, a popular local choice.$18

Dinner

For dinner, explore the De Pijp neighborhood and find a restaurant offering Indonesian-Dutch fusion cuisine, a popular local choice.

$18

Amsterdam is best explored using its extensive public transport system, including trams and buses. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel. Popular taxi apps include Uber and Bolt. Tango taxi costs approximately $2.5 per km.

Export Your Trip

Get your trip plan as a PDF with maps and a CSV spreadsheet.

Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$80

Food / day$40

Transport / day$10

Activities / day$30

Daily total$160

Trip total$320

Daily total includes accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Trip total is for 2 days. All amounts are in USD per person.

Good to Know

Tap Water: Safe to drink

Local Currency: EUR

Power Plug Types: C, F

Best Taxi Apps: Uber, Bolt, Taxi.eu

Public Transport Options: Tram, Bus, Metro, Ferry

English Proficiency: Excellent (8/10)

Tipping Culture: Appreciated but not mandatory (5-10%)

Walkability: Excellent (9/10)

LGBTQ+ Friendliness: Excellent (9/10)

Healthcare Quality: Excellent (8/10)

2-Day Amsterdam: History, Art & Local Secrets

2-Day Amsterdam: History, Art & Local Secrets

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House

Amsterdam Canals

Amsterdam Canals

Accommodation— Centrum (central canal district)

Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam

Visit the Jewish Historical Museum

Visit the Jewish Historical Museum

Export Your Trip

Budget Breakdown

Good to Know

Pre-Trip Checklist