2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary You Should Steal

Planning on spending 2 days in Amsterdam? Are you looking for things to do and places to see?

Well, you have certainly come to the right place because I have visited Amsterdam and fell in love with this delightful European capital city instantly.

When you think of the Netherlands, do you visualize canals and windmills? Perhaps even wooden shoes, bicycles, and brightly colored tulips?

Amsterdam is all of those things and even more! Being the capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is lovely if not provocative, with its Red Light District.

There are so many things to do during 48 hours in Amsterdam! I am here to guide you through the top sights so you can vacation plan without stress.

It is easy to see all the most popular attractions when you visit Amsterdam in a weekend! From museums to boat cruises, you will have so much fun!

Now on to what to visit in Amsterdam!

2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary You Should Steal

Day 1: Museums and Dutch Culture

Stop 1: Visit the Anne Frank House

I am here to share my best advice on what to add to your Amsterdam 2-day itinerary. I have plenty of tips for traveling to Amsterdam!

Visit the place where young Anne Frank wrote her famous account of WWII as she hid with her family and others.

No matter how familiar you are with the Anne Frank story, you must tour the secret annex where she hid from the Nazis. It is a somber and unforgettable experience.

Anne Frank’s diary is on display along with absorbing and thought-provoking exhibits. But it is not until you see the starkness of the hiding attic, that the real tragedy is so profoundly felt.

You must purchase tickets online beforehand. If you do not already have a pre-purchased ticket when you arrive you will likely not gain entrance to the attraction.

Do not risk missing out on this top attraction when you visit Amsterdam in 2 days!

Book Here: Amsterdam: Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour

Stop 2: Rent a Bike to See Amsterdam Like the Dutch

When you think of Amsterdam, you probably think of bicycles, right? Amsterdam is consistently rated as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. And with good reason.

There are more bikes in Amsterdam than there are cars. Four times the number of bicycles than cars, to be exact!

There are many bike tours to choose from to match your budget and personal tastes. Visit historic sights or enjoy a food tour.

Fun fact: you can ride your bike through a museum! Yes, you can cycle (or walk, of course) through a tunnel under the Rijksmuseum.  When I visited Amsterdam, we walked through the museum.

It is a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike, with street performers galore.

You will probably want to wear closed-toed shoes when you cycle through Amsterdam. These Sketchers Breathe Easy fashion sneakers are lightweight and would be perfect.

For socks, consider Feetures high-performance compression socks. These are the socks I wear when running and walking long distances on vacation.

The compression will aid in the circulation of your feet, which provides comfort and allows you to walk and bike around Amsterdam and enjoy yourself.

Book Here: Amsterdam: 2-Hour City Highlights Guided Bike Tour

Stop 3: Stop For Lunch or Refreshments at a Charming Cafe

After a morning of cycling and museum-going, you can choose from a myriad of cafes and restaurants in Amsterdam to refuel.

I did a ton of walking during my two days in Amsterdam, and by lunchtime, I was very hungry. My family and I chose to have lunch at a quaint restaurant called The Avocado Show.

This is one of the best eateries to enjoy lunch or breakfast in Amsterdam.

While you are visiting Amsterdam, you will want to bring along your own water bottle. My family and I all use a Bobble nondisposable filtered water bottle.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water when you need it.

I like the 18-ounce size because it is not too heavy when filled and can fit right into my backpack pocket.

Stop 4: Soak Up Amsterdam Culture At Museumplein

Before you set out on your flight, read up on my tips for how to avoid getting sick on a plan

Museumplein is the unofficial cultural center of Amsterdam. It is where the top museums of Amsterdam meet: the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum.

The Rijksmuseum holds 800 years of Dutch history. The massive painting of The Night Watch by Rembrandt is incredible to see in person.

The Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh paintings, drawings, and letters. The Stedelijk Museum displays contemporary art and designs.

All three of these museums require admission. I advise purchasing tickets for any attractions you may be interested in online beforehand. This will save you time.

Museumplein is the open square between the popular museums. When I visited, it was crowded with locals and tourists alike as it is quite popular. In summer, it is great for sitting out in the sun.

There are always activities in the warmer months like exhibits and markets. What is occurring at the Museumplein will depend on the time of year you visit.

Make sure to take a picture in front of the iconic I Amsterdam letters. They are HUGE and you cannot miss them.

Depending on the time of year you visit Museumplein in Amsterdam, you may need to bring a sweater to layer to keep warm.

If you only have 1 day in Amsterdam, Museumplein is a must since there is so much here to do!

Book Here: Amsterdam: Rijksmuseum Entrance Ticket

Book Here: Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket

Stop 5: Complete Your Day With a Dutch Dinner and Cocktails

Whether you are a vegan like me or have any dietary restrictions, you can experience the Dutch food culture and remain within your eating parameters.

Some might say a visit to Amsterdam is incomplete without trying pickled herring, but I’ll skip it!

Amsterdam has that European flair with its outdoor cafes and restaurant seating. Like other European capital cities, you can sit out on the patio and enjoy being outdoors.

One downside though is that when seated outdoors, smoking is permitted. This can be unpleasant at times.

If you are visiting Amsterdam for the weekend, try to sample local food at a couple of different restaurants.

Day 2: Classic Tourist Attractions and Hidden Gems

Stop 1: Begin Your Day Exploring Amsterdam’s Cafes

Plan a leisurely morning to usher in your second day of 2 days in Amsterdam. Maybe you want to begin the day more slowly and exploring Amsterdam’s coffee culture is a great way to do it.

To be clear, you are looking for cafes, which are cafes serving both food and coffee. You will find marijuana and hashish in Amsterdam’s “coffee shops.”

Be careful and aware of the establishment you enter.

Traditional coffee shops, that most of us are familiar with, are more and more popular in Amsterdam. You will not be too far away from a great roasted cup of coffee, and a great Danish to go with it.

Stop 2: Take a Canal Cruise to Learn Amsterdam’s History During 2 Days In Amsterdam

The Dutch canal system was created in the 1600s to combat the perennial flooding the Netherlands endured. 

The frequent flooding wreaked havoc on the Dutch, causing loss of life and income and creating financial hardships for its citizens. Today, Amsterdam is 10 feet below sea level!

Fun fact: Amsterdam’s canals, the epicenter of many of Amsterdam’s activities, have earned the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. It is a location so unique it must be protected for generations to come.

There are many canal cruises to select from, depending on your budget and how much time you have. The most popular ones last about one to two hours.

There are hop-on hop-off selections and romantic, candlelit, evening canal cruises. Amsterdam takes on a magical aura in the evening with its twinkling lights everywhere.

This is easily one of the best things to do in Amsterdam in the evening!

Canal cruising is the perfect way to learn about Amsterdam’s history and architecture while seeing the city in such an interesting way. I suggest adding a canal cruise to your two days in Amsterdam itinerary.

Book Here: Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise

Book Here: Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option

Stop 3: Get Your Shopping On At The 9 Streets

The 9 Streets, or De 9 Straatjes, is the trendy Amsterdam location to be. Three streets cross over two canals, forming the 9 small streets.

You will find everything you desire in this fashionable district. There are lots of swanky shops, cafes, bookstores, and of course restaurants and bars.

The area is overflowing with fashion and food! You will love wandering around the 9 Streets Amsterdam!

I like to bring my reusable bags along when I travel. Less trash to throw out and it’s convenient.

These lightweight yet heavy-duty reusable shopping sacks are so cool and fold down into themselves to a tiny size to pack away.

The colorful shops and bars paired with the Amsterdam canals make for very colorful backdrops.

Stop 4: Visit the Amsterdam Flower Market During Your 2 Days In Amsterdam

When you think of the Dutch, you think of flowers, especially tulips, right? Me, too. The Amsterdam Flower Market, Bloemenmarkt, is where you can discover blooming tulips of every single color.

You’ll also find tulip bulbs to bring back home with you to enjoy later.

If you plan to take flower bulbs out of the country, make certain they have a customs-cleared stamp on them. This will ensure you will not have any difficulties when leaving the Netherlands.

The flower market is housed in about a dozen or so flower stalls on one of Amsterdam’s canals. Yes, it is a floating flower market.

The kinds of flowers available will depend on the time of year you visit. But there are always blooming flowers for you to see and smell.

This is one of the best hidden gems to explore during your 2-day itinerary for Amsterdam.

Book Here: Amsterdam: Highlights & History Walking Tour

Stop 5: Check Out The Red Light District – If You Dare!

Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District is not for the faint of heart. DO NOT BRING YOUR CHILDREN HERE!

I visited the naughty Red Light District during the day during my 2 days in Amsterdam. I am no prude, but found it provocative and erotic.

You MUST be aware of this if you intend to visit the Red Light District. This is where Amsterdam’s legal prostitution takes place.

In the evenings, sex workers attempt to lure visitors from behind windows lit with red lights. Although no picture-taking is permitted, visitors are welcome.

If you intend to make this part of your 2 days in Amsterdam, know there is a strong police presence to keep the neighborhood safe.

Book Here: Amsterdam Red Light Guided Walking Tour

Where to Stay During 2 Days In Amsterdam

For your 2 nights in Amsterdam, there are plenty of choices for accommodations. Whether you want a luxury hotel or a stylish hostel in Amsterdam, there is something to fit your needs.

Affordable Hostel with Shared Lounge Areas: ClinkNOORD Hostel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range Hotel in a Great Location: ibis Styles Amsterdam Central Station. Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury Hotel with Beautiful Decor and Views: Hotel Estheréa. Check Rates: Booking.com

Packing Tips For Your 2 Days In Amsterdam Itinerary

Need packing tips? Read my guide on how to pack lightly for your next trip.

 This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.

These RFID sleeves would be handy in preventing identity theft.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use.

And this world traveler adapter kit can charge several devices at the same time.

This is the exact set of packing organizers I use whenever I travel.

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. the 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse.

. And the replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great. It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from.

I highly recommend these Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals. I have several pairs of Vionics that I bring with me *everywhere* I travel. They are very comfortable.

These unisex polarized sunglasses come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the aviator-style of sunglasses these polarized aviators may interest you.

If you need new luggage, this expandable soft side spinner luggage is affordable and comes in lots of colors. If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this hard-sided luggage set better.

As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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