Amsterdam ranks high on many travel bucket lists worldwide, and for good reason. This vibrant city, known for its picturesque canals and charming narrow streets, seamlessly blends history, culture, and an infectious zest for life. If you get a chance to spend even a day in Amsterdam, don’t think twice about taking it.
Whether having a layover at Schiphol Airport or going on a Euro trip, here are some tips on making your day in Amsterdam count.
Leave Any Baggage Behind
Since you only have a day to fully take in Amsterdam, nothing should weigh you down. Packing light isn’t always possible, especially if your Amsterdam fun day is only a part of a longer journey. Luckily, there’s a simple solution no matter how much luggage you have – drop it off in a convenient luggage storage location in Amsterdam.
You can find storage locations near the airport if you want to get rid of your luggage right away or near key monuments to have it closer to the city center.
Make an Itinerary in Advance
No one can deny there’s a certain charm to an impromptu visit to Amsterdam. You can stumble upon hidden gems, interact with locals, and discover the city’s authentic character. However, it’s highly unlikely you’ll be able to accomplish all of this in a single day. So, taking a one-day trip to Amsterdam without an itinerary is a recipe for disappointment and wasted time.
Make an itinerary in advance, and you’ll be able to check off most of the must-see attractions in Amsterdam, like the Jordaan Neighborhood, Bloemenmarkt Flower Market, Rijksmuseum, and a canal cruise.
Don’t forget to also map out your route to take full advantage of your time in a particular neighborhood. For instance, the Rijksmuseum is located in the Museumplein, as are the Van Gogh and Stedelijk Museums. While you’re there, you might as well visit all the cultural attractions on your itinerary.
Plan Ahead
Okay, so you’re spending one day in Amsterdam. Do you know what you don’t have time for? Waiting in line! To avoid wasting your precious time in long queues, book as many attractions in advance as possible. Booking in advance will also be necessary for certain locations, like Anne Frank’s House, which don’t offer on-site tickets.
Get an Early Start
If possible, start your Amsterdam adventure early in the morning. Just think of all the additional sights you can squeeze in with a few extra hours. As an added bonus, the attractions will likely be significantly less crowded, as many tourists tend to sleep in.
Hop on a Bike
You might think renting a car will give you more time to see as much of Amsterdam as possible. However, with the city’s narrow streets and expensive parking, this move can do you more harm than good. The solution? Head to the nearest bike rental and pedal your way through Amsterdam’s enchanting streets. Not only will this allow you to navigate the city more quickly, but you’ll also experience the city’s flourishing bike culture firsthand.
Bring Snacks and Drinks
Amsterdam is known for its delicious food scene that offers something for every palate. You’ll probably want to try the world-famous crispy fries at Manneken Pis and melt-in-your-mouth cookies at Van Stapele Koekmakerij. But be warned – these culinary delights come with a price: a long queue.
If you don’t want to waste your time queuing for every meal, bring some travel-friendly snacks. Those planning on doing a lot of walking should also stock up on water, as staying hydrated will allow you to explore Amsterdam to the fullest.
Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes
Exploring Amsterdam on foot is part of the authentic experience. It allows you to see the canals and narrow streets up close and personal (and knock the 10,000-step daily goal out of the park in the process!). Just remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Otherwise, you might find yourself aching for a rest before hitting even half of the spots on your itinerary.
Time Your Trip
If at all possible, try to visit Amsterdam during early spring. The weather is pleasant, but the high season still hasn’t kicked in, which means no overwhelming crowds. As an added bonus, you’ll get to experience the beauty of blooming tulips. Visiting during summer might give you more daylight while exploring, but each step of your adventure will be slowed down by hordes of tourists and long queues at popular attractions.
One Day, Endless Fun
With our tips and a little planning on your end, you can make the most out of your day in Amsterdam. Once it’s over, you can hold on to all the amazing memories until you can return for more.