The Perfect 4 Days In Amsterdam Itinerary

By Gemma Tedaldi | Published: 7th January 2018 | Updated: 24th December 2024

How does a long weekend away in the hustle and bustle of bicycles, historic canals and stunning architecture sound? Well, if it tickles your fancy then Amsterdam is the place for you, plus you may even get the chance to see the famous tulip fields… So, here is our perfect 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary.

📍 4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 1 – Museums, galleries and gardens

📍 4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 2 – Canals and the Bloemenmarkt

📍 4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 3 – History and cheese

📍 4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 4 – Modern Amsterdam

Planning Your Trip? Use our favourite travel resources below:

Accommodation: We recommend Booking.com

Rental Car: We recommend Rentalcars.com

Flights: We recommend Kiwi.com

Tours: We recommend Get Your Guide & Viator

Currency Conversion: We recommend Wise 

Travel Insurance: World Nomads

4 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary Map

4 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

If you are planning on a city break to Amsterdam, (which you definitely should), then be sure to check out Amsterdam Go City Passes, for discounted rates for tickets to attractions throughout the city, (some up to 50%!). These include art galleries, museums, canal cruises and even the Heineken Experience.

4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 1 – Museums, galleries and gardens

First day of the 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary and we are starting with one of the most beautiful parks and an area full to the brim with museums and galleries, Vondelpark and Museumplein.

Begin by exploring Vondelpark, this large park with lakes and numerous cycling routes is a must-cycle through when in Amsterdam. Seriously it is more difficult to cross this park if you are walking than if you were on a bike! If you visit in the spring, (which is when we would recommend), then not only is it highly likely the trees will be in blossom, but the floor will be carpeted with crocus, daffodils and tulips if you are lucky.

After a wander through the surrounding area head to the Museumplein, home to the Stedelijk, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Moco. The area around the Museumplein is full of some of the most incredible artwork and history like no other elsewhere in Amsterdam so is a must-visit during your trip. It is also a great place to go if the weather isn’t quite on your side.

In our short time there we visited the Stedelijk with its creative modern art, the Van Gogh Museum with the famous Sunflowers painting, (which Gemma had been dying to see since studying Van Gogh years ago), and the Moco, which at the time had an exhibition on Banksy and Salvador Dali, and coming over from Bristol, (Banksy’s home), we had to see the Banksy exhibition. We completely ran out of time to get into the Rijksmuseum, but we will be back to see it in the future.

4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 2 – Canals and the Bloemenmarkt

Day 2 and it is all about exploring the canals today. Amsterdam is known for its elaborate canal system lined with beautiful narrow houses leaning this way and that, so what better way to discover parts of the city that you never knew about than by getting out on foot and wandering the picturesque canals for the day?

The Grachtengordel area of Amsterdam is not only home to lovely cafes and shopping boutiques but is also the home of three beautiful principal 17th-century canals, that form a semi-circle that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. This is where you will be spending most of day 2, walking the canals and finding the famous Amsterdam tulips. Beginning at Leidseplein.

Leidseplein is an area full to the brim with cafes, bars and restaurants, so the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and then hit the pavements exploring. Once you are ready for the day the first place you must go is Leidsegracht, one of the most picturesque canals in all of Amsterdam. Running from Leidseplein in the south all the way up to Herengracht in the north, Leidsegracht puts on a show with numerous wonderful bridges that come to life with hundreds of bulbs at night.

From the top of Leidsegracht at Herengracht, head along the canal towards Nieuwe Speigelstraat. Nieuwe Spiegelstraat is known not only for its array of buildings but its antique shops and historic eateries too. From Prinsengracht in the south to Herengracht in the north, this street is somewhere you can easily while away a few hours of the day. Now head just one canal over to the north and into the Bloemenmarkt.

First opened in 1862 the Bloemenmarkt is still as popular now as it ever has been. Wandering through this market is unlike any other with the fresh smell of flowers blooming left right and centre, and numerous types of bulbs to buy and take with you so you can plant a little bit of Amsterdam at home. Although the fields of tulips weren’t quite ready when we were there, the countless tulips through the market and the surrounding canals, definitely made up for it.

After picking out your favourite tulips to take home, the next stop is just a short walk along the canal to the Munttoren. Originally part of what was the city wall of Amsterdam, this tower built in the 1600s, is a lovely place to walk around before heading to one of the squares that really give Amsterdam its heart. Rembrandtplein.

With numerous places to sit and eat, Rembrandtplein is an area that is constantly changing throughout the year. With seasonal markets, food markets every week and of course the Rembrandt Monument at the centre, it is a great place to relax for a while before setting off for the final stop of the day on the 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary.

Now you thought you had seen the most beautiful canals in Amsterdam already, think again. Sleutelbrug on Grimburgwal is most definitely the most beautiful of them all. With views along the Oudezijds Voorburgwal as well as out to the Grimnessesluis past the University of Amsterdam, this tiny bridge and canal system are really a sight to behold, and the perfect place to finish the day off, (head to the Pannenkoekenhuis on the corner for crepes to die for!).

4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 3 – History and cheese

When you think of Amsterdam what instantly springs to mind? Canals, bicycles, tulips… what about cheese? So, on day 3 of the 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary, we are hitting up more of the stunning canals, exploring historic buildings and squares and hunting down some of the best cheese in all of Amsterdam.

Begin the day at Prinsengracht near De 9 Straatjes in Grachtengordel-West, the neighbourhood that is famed for its historic canals. Prinsengracht runs nearly 180 degrees in a semi-circle around the centre of Amsterdam, but this particular area of the canal is extra lovely. You also walk past both Westerkerk, where Rembrandt is buried, and the Anne Frank Museum House, so this canal really has some of the most history along it in all of Amsterdam.

Upon reaching Leliesluis on Prinsengracht head across the canal to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum and more importantly the Amsterdam Cheese Museum. Tulips are great and all, but today isn’t about tulips it is about history and cheese! Now it does have a certain pong from the moment you step through the door, (so not advised for those with a history of hating the smell of ageing cheese!), but a visit to the Amsterdam Cheese Museum is well worth it for not only the history of making the cheese but also the tastings.

From the cheese museum, head for a stroll along Herengracht, another of the main canals that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading along Singel to the Torensluis. This bridge is roughly 40 metres in width, making it not only one of the oldest bridges in Amsterdam but also one of the widest. It is now home to outdoor terraces for nearby cafes, as well as the statue of Meltatuli, (a famous Dutch writer), but the remnants of the old tower and dungeon that were once here are still visible today.

From one historic piece of Amsterdam to another and into the grand Dam Square. Home to the Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam, the Royal Palace, and numerous pigeons, this is one of the best places to grab a bit to eat and watch the world go by the whole of Amsterdam. Often filled with markets, it is also a great place to come if there are events on.

For the final stop of the day head from Dam Square out to the east and to Oudesijds Voorburgwal, following along the canal to the north and to the heart of the Red Light District. Now we know, a typical tourist place with windows that you dare not look in, but this place at night is truly beautiful! The red lights reflecting on the water along with the hustle and bustle of the place make it surprisingly inviting.

One place you really should go in the Red Light District is De Oude Kerk. This church, which is also a museum and contemporary art gallery too, is one of the oldest buildings in the city, and it is grand inside and out. Just avoid the really narrow alleyways, if you know you know, you have been warned…

4 Days in Amsterdam: Day 4 – Modern Amsterdam

For the final day of the 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary, we are heading further afield to a little-known area of Amsterdam, often overlooked by the tourists. With modern buildings built on floating moorings, impressive libraries and a pretty bridge or two, this area of East Amsterdam is really quite special.

Start off the day at Zuiderkerk, a beautiful church built in 1611, that is not only is it stunning inside and out, but it has some rather good views over Amsterdam from the tower too. Now it is used for events and concerts so why not try and watch a concert with a difference? The Museum Het Rembrandthuis is also just a short walk from Zuiderkerk, so if you are into this Dutch artist this is the place for you.

Now if there is one place you should go to in Amsterdam for the views then the OBA Library of Amsterdam is it. Not only are the views out to the historic centre of Amsterdam from all the floors of the building beautiful, but the views throughout the building itself are stunning. It is like a piece of art for a library!

After seeing the city from above in one of the most modern buildings in the area, hop on a tram or walk your way over to De Gooyer one of the oldest. This wooden windmill is not only unusual for its octagonal shape, but it is also the tallest wooden windmill in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, you can no longer access the windmill itself but there is a brewery next door that gives you all the views you could ask for.

After a bit of local history, it is time to get back to the ultra-modern in the Eastern Docklands of Amsterdam. Known for its floating homes, warehouses converted into art galleries and rather impressive bridges the Borneo Isle is somewhere you really have to explore during your 4 days in Amsterdam. Wander along the waterfront, stop in a café or pop-up bar and take in all the unique homes that are individually designed in the area before heading back into the historic older areas of Amsterdam for the final stop of the day.

Finish the 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary at the beautiful Magere Brug, also known as Skinny Bridge, a historic Old Dutch design wooden bridge originally built in 1691, then demolished and replaced in 1871, then again in 1934. Located between Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht this bridge is only open to pedestrians and cyclists, adding to its historic charm.

Not only is the Magere Brug known for being rather skinny back in the day, but with its 1,200 light bulbs, it is also known to the locals as one of the most romantic bridges in all of Amsterdam today. Legend has it that if lovers kiss whilst walking on this bridge or passing underneath by boat, then they shall be in love forever. Not only that but it is one of the perfect places to watch the sunset over the surrounding canals and streets after 4 days of exploring.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

For our trip to Amsterdam, we stayed a little out of the centre, and although it took a bit longer to get in and see the sights, we almost definitely paid less than had we stayed more central.

Check out the below map for the best rates for your own trip to Amsterdam.

Food to try in Amsterdam

Now when we travel to a new place, we always make a beeline for some traditional food, how else do you get stuck into the culture?! And in Amsterdam, you can have all the tasters you can get your hands on! Nearly all of the places we passed had tasters of some kind or another.

Stroopwafels

If you try one Dutch sweet treat, make it a stroopwafel. Two thin waffles stuck together with a layer of sweet syrup, literally the best thing ever at any time of day!

Pannenkoeken

‘Pannenkoeken’ or Dutch pancakes have the concept of a pizza, yes you heard me right, a pizza. The pancakes in Amsterdam can be topped with so many different ingredients it is madness! We ended up with one topped in chocolate and hazelnuts and one topped with cheese and apple, it sounds awful but trust us it was delicious.

Cheese

Cheese is big business in the Netherlands, so you cannot go home without visiting a cheese shop and getting your hands on some free cheese samples. There are also plenty of sample platters you can get in the bars and restaurants.

Bitterballen

Now out of all the Dutch food we ate Bitterballen have to be our absolute favourite. These delicious deep fried crispy meatballs with a beef broth inside pretty much became our staple grub if we were out and about and having a few craft beers along the canals. They are the ultimate Dutch pub snack!

Also, the craft beers throughout Amsterdam deserve a try…

4 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary FAQs

Is Amsterdam worth visiting?

Amsterdam is most definitely worth visiting. With beautiful historic buildings, winding canals, cobbled streets and a few good museums and galleries to visit too, why would you not want to visit Amsterdam? Plus where there is bitterballen and stroopwafel you cant go wrong!

Best time to visit Amsterdam

The best time by far to visit Amsterdam is in the spring. Not only is the city waking up with spring warmth and the opportunity to eat outside, but it is slightly less busy than the warmer summer months can get. Plus, the famous tulips may be out!

How to get to Amsterdam

The easiest ways to get to Amsterdam is either via plane or via train. Flights arrive multiple times a day into the international airport at Amsterdam Schiphol, from all across the world as well as trains arriving into Amsterdam Centraal from across Europe, so Amsterdam is extremely well connected.

How to get from Vienna to Amsterdam

You can get between Vienna and Amsterdam by both train and flying, with numerous trains departing between the two cities each day, although they do take between 11 and 14 hours on average, although there is a NightJet train, (overnight train), that you can take! If instead you choose to fly, it is a non-stop 2 hour flight. You can of course drive between them, (which is especially good fun if you are on a road trip through Europe), which takes roughly 12 hours.

How to get from London to Amsterdam

The easiest ways to get from London to Amsterdam via train and plane. Via train you can take the Eurostar from London which takes roughly 4 hours, stopping in Belgium and Rotterdam on route, whilst via plane, you can take non-stop flights from airports across the UK including London, Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, all taking roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.

How to get to Amsterdam city centre from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

There is a direct train line that runs between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Centraal, which takes roughly 15 minutes and is from 9.50 euros one way or 17.25 euros return ticket. They run 24 hours a day 7 days a week, so whatever time you end up arriving in Amsterdam via plane you can get to the city centre. You can also take a shuttle bus or taxi, but the bus will take much longer to arrive in the centre and a taxi will cost quite a bit more.

How to get around Amsterdam

There are three ways to get around whilst spending 4 days in Amsterdam. On foot, by bike or via public transport. If you want to do as the locals do and cycle around Amsterdam, then bike rentals cost from roughly 8 euros for 3 hours and 14 euros for 24 hours. As for public transport, GVB runs all the metros, trams and buses in Amsterdam. A 1-hour ticket costs from 3.20 euros, 24 hours from 8.00 euros.

You can get your GVB Transport tickets here

There are numerous bike paths and thousands upon thousands of bikes in the centre of Amsterdam and it can be slightly overwhelming when you are faced with the morning cycling commuters, trams and the fear of falling in a canal, but don’t let that put you off! Cycling is the character of the city and a great way to get around, plus it’s much easier than trying to explore by car…

We wouldn’t recommend trying to drive into Amsterdam as the streets are very narrow and often full of cyclists. However, if you do want to park in Amsterdam be aware that it is not easy to find parking and it costs from 7.50 euros per hour in the city centre. Most visitors with vehicles tend to use the Park and Ride at the A10 ring road and then get into the city centre via public transport.

Is the I Amsterdam City Pass worth it?

If you want unlimited public transport on the metro, trams or buses then the I Amsterdam City Pass may be the right option for you. It also gives you free access to most of Amsterdam’s museums and tourist attractions. You also get a 25% discount at various restaurants, car rentals, bike rentals, and cheese shops! (Yes, cheese shops!) Prices start from 60 euros for a 24-hour card, 80 euros for 48 hours, 95 euros for 72 hours and 105 euros for 96 hours.

Get your official I Amsterdam City Pass here

How many days do you need in Amsterdam? Are 4 days in Amsterdam enough?

Yes, if you want to see the typical tourist sights and explore a couple of places that might not be so well known, but if you want to see some more of the local area, maybe a day trip to Keukenhof or Zaanse Schans, then you will want a little more time. You could always come back for another trip to see more sights and take a day trip or two!

It is worth going to Amsterdam for 3 days?

You can get a lot of sightseeing done in 3 days in Amsterdam, so it is a great amount of time to visit, but if you have more time then we would recommend spending at least 4 days or more. That way you dont have to feel rushed and you can even take day trips out to neighbouring locations on the train such as the flower fields, Utrecht or Rotterdam.

Is a one day trip to Amsterdam worth it?

Honestly, no we wouldn’t recommend a one day trip to Amsterdam as you really wont get to see the city without rushing. You also wont get to saviour in all the delicious food and drink that the city has to offer either.

When is King’s Day in Amsterdam?

King’s Day in Amsterdam falls on the birthday of King Willem Alexander, the 27^th April. You can expect one of the largest orange-filled celebrations you will ever come across!

Is Amsterdam a nice place to visit?

Amsterdam is a wonderful place to visit, with beautiful architecture, wonderful food and friendly locals. Yes is can get busy during certain times of the year, but dont let that put you off, Amsterdam is one city everyone should have on their To-Go-To list.

Is Amsterdam safe at night?

Amsterdam is relatively safe in most places at night, but we would suggest not visiting the area around the Red Light District as not only can it get very crowded with tourists, but because of that it draws in the petty crime offenders with lots of pickpocketing occuring.

When to see tulips in Amsterdam?

If you want to see the tulips in full bloom in Amsterdam, or the surrounding flower fields, then the best time of year to visit is from mid-April through to mid-May.

Weather in Amsterdam

The weather in Amsterdam is similar to that in other locations across western Europe, with warm summers and cold / damp winters. It can reach average highs of 16°C (61°F) in the summer months, and 2°C (36°F) in the winter months.

Is Amsterdam busy in October?

Visiting Amsterdam in October is one of the best times of year to visit if you want minimal crowds of tourists and mild temperatures. The spring and summer are the busiest times of year to visit Amsterdam so although you may get slightly greyer and cooler weather, the winter is one of the best times of year to visit, (apart from December which can get busy with Christmas shoppers and holidays!).

Guided Tours in and from Amsterdam

Tours are a great way to see the sights of Amsterdam and for day trips out into the surrounding countryside. Check out the best sellers on Get Your Guide below – we’ve used them in a few European destinations now and they are always great!

Conclusion: 4 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary

And there you have it the perfect 4 days in Amsterdam itinerary, you can of course spend much longer exploring this wonderful waterway-filled city, but this is a great base to start off with.

If you’ve enjoyed your time exploring the canals of Amsterdam, why not head to the canals of Venice next? Stunning sights, delicious food and almost as many canals as Amsterdam it really is a lovely place to visit.

Gemma Tedaldi

Gemma is the owner and author of The Travelling Tedaldi, a travel blog helping travellers to discover the best road trips and travel itineraries throughout the UK and Europe. When she isn’t writing about her favourite travel destinations, she can often be found out exploring local hikes or planning future trips.