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 for Culture Vultures & Hidden Gem Hunters

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

2 daysspring

Uncover Amsterdam's rich history, world-class art, and secret local spots on this unforgettable 2-day spring adventure!

2-Day Amsterdam for Culture Vultures & Hidden Gem Hunters

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

2 daysspring

Uncover Amsterdam's rich history, world-class 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 the central historic district to cover key landmarks and learn about the city's background.

Book FREE walking tour

Late Morning

Anne Frank House

4.5(74k reviews)~1.5 hours

Book tickets months in advance online; they sell out very quickly. This is a profoundly moving historical site.

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

Late Morning

Anne Frank House

Book tickets months in advance online; they sell out very quickly. This is a profoundly moving historical site.

4.5(74k reviews)~1.5 hours

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

Afternoon

Amsterdam Canals

4.7(703 reviews)~2 hours

Consider a canal cruise from near Centraal Station for a comprehensive overview, or explore charming bridges and houseboats by foot in the Jordaan district.

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

Afternoon

Amsterdam Canals

Consider a canal cruise from near Centraal Station for a comprehensive overview, or explore charming bridges and houseboats by foot in the Jordaan district.

4.7(703 reviews)~2 hours

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

Late Afternoon

Dam Square

4.5(45k reviews)~1 hours

See the Royal Palace and the National Monument in this historic city center square. Look for details on the sculptures.

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

Late Afternoon

Dam Square

See the Royal Palace and the National Monument in this historic city center square. Look for details on the sculptures.

4.5(45k reviews)~1 hours

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

Evening

Explore the Jordaan District's hidden courtyards

~2 hours

Wander through the 'hofjes' (inner courtyards) of the Jordaan, often found behind unassuming doors. Look for signs indicating 'hofje'.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

BreakfastFind a local bakery and grab a Stroopwafel, a thin waffle cookie with a caramel-like syrup filling.~$7

Breakfast

Find a local bakery and grab a Stroopwafel, a thin waffle cookie with a caramel-like syrup filling.

~$7

LunchLook for a 'snackbar' or 'broodjeswinkel' (sandwich shop) and try a Kroket, a deep-fried meat-based snack, often served in or with bread.~$9

Lunch

Look for a 'snackbar' or 'broodjeswinkel' (sandwich shop) and try a Kroket, a deep-fried meat-based snack, often served in or with bread.

~$9

DinnerVisit a traditional 'brown cafe' (pub) and order Bitterballen, deep-fried crispy meatballs, typically served with mustard. Pair with a local Dutch beer.~$18

Dinner

Visit a traditional 'brown cafe' (pub) and order Bitterballen, deep-fried crispy meatballs, typically served with mustard. Pair with a local Dutch beer.

~$18

Amsterdam is very walkable and has an excellent public transport system including trams, buses, and metro. Consider a GVB day pass for unlimited travel. For taxis, use apps like Uber or Bolt.

Accommodation— Centrum (central historic district)

This central area provides easy access to historical sites and cultural attractions, fitting your interests.

Hotel in Centrum (central historic district)

$70-100/night

This central area provides easy access to historical sites and cultural attractions, fitting your interests.

Search hotels in this area

Day 2Art, Parks, and Local Flavors

Morning

Rijksmuseum

4.7(110k reviews)~2 hours

Dedicate your morning to the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum. Focus on Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch' and Vermeer's 'The Milkmaid' for a concise yet impactful art immersion.

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

Morning

Rijksmuseum

Dedicate your morning to the masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum. Focus on Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch' and Vermeer's 'The Milkmaid' for a concise yet impactful art immersion.

4.7(110k reviews)~2 hours

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

Late Morning

Van Gogh Museum

4.6(103k reviews)~2 hours

Following the Rijksmuseum, head to the Van Gogh Museum to explore the world's largest collection of his works. Consider pre-booking tickets online to save time.

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

Late Morning

Van Gogh Museum

Following the Rijksmuseum, head to the Van Gogh Museum to explore the world's largest collection of his works. Consider pre-booking tickets online to save time.

4.6(103k reviews)~2 hours

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

Afternoon

Vondelpark

4.7(58k reviews)~2 hours

Enjoy a relaxing stroll or rent a bike in Vondelpark, Amsterdam's largest city park. Find a quiet spot by one of the ponds for a peaceful break from the museums.

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

Afternoon

Vondelpark

Enjoy a relaxing stroll or rent a bike in Vondelpark, Amsterdam's largest city park. Find a quiet spot by one of the ponds for a peaceful break from the museums.

4.7(58k reviews)~2 hours

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

Late Afternoon

Visit a local 'brown cafe' for traditional snacks

~1 hours

Seek out a 'bruin café' (brown cafe) in the Jordaan district. Order a round of bitterballen, a popular Dutch snack, and a local beer.

Evening

Find a local market for unique souvenirs

~2 hours

Explore the Albert Cuyp Market for a lively atmosphere and diverse souvenirs. Look for handcrafted goods or local delicacies away from the main tourist paths.

Meals

Recommended traditional local cuisine

BreakfastGrab a quick breakfast at a local bakery and try a stroopwafel, a thin waffle cookie with a caramel syrup filling.$7

Breakfast

Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery and try a stroopwafel, a thin waffle cookie with a caramel syrup filling.

LunchFor lunch, find a casual cafe and order a kroket, a savory Dutch meat-based snack, often served in a bread roll.$18

Lunch

For lunch, find a casual cafe and order a kroket, a savory Dutch meat-based snack, often served in a bread roll.

$18

DinnerFor dinner, explore the Rembrandtplein area and find a restaurant offering modern European cuisine. Opt for a hearty stew or seasonal vegetables.$18

Dinner

For dinner, explore the Rembrandtplein area and find a restaurant offering modern European cuisine. Opt for a hearty stew or seasonal vegetables.

$18

Amsterdam's city center is best explored on foot or using the efficient tram system. Consider purchasing a multi-day public transport pass. Uber and Bolt are available, with a base fare around $2.5/km.

Accommodation— Jordaan (canal district)

This charming canal district offers a central location with plentiful hotels and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring museums and local hangouts.

Hotel in Jordaan (canal district)

$80-120/night

This charming canal district offers a central location with plentiful hotels and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring museums and local hangouts.

Search hotels in this area

Export Your Trip

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

Budget Breakdown

Accommodation / night$80

Food / day$35

Transport / day$15

Activities / day$40

Daily total$170

Trip total$340

Daily total accounts for accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Trip total is for 2 days. Costs are estimated per person in USD.

Good to Know

Tap Water: Safe to drink

Currency: EUR

Power Plug Types: C;F

Best Taxi Apps: Uber;Bolt;Taxi.eu

Public Transport Options: Tram;Bus;Metro;Ferry

Languages: Dutch;English;German

English Proficiency: Excellent (8/10)

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

Walkability: Excellent (9/10)

Foreigner Friendliness: Excellent (8/10)

2-Day Amsterdam for Culture Vultures & Hidden Gem Hunters

2-Day Amsterdam for Culture Vultures & Hidden Gem Hunters

Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House

Amsterdam Canals

Amsterdam Canals

Dam Square

Dam Square

Accommodation— Centrum (central historic district)

Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum

Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum

Vondelpark

Vondelpark

Accommodation— Jordaan (canal district)

Export Your Trip

Budget Breakdown

Good to Know

Pre-Trip Checklist