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3 Days in Amsterdam: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
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Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Amsterdam
Itinerary in Amsterdam: day 1
Dam Square
Kick off your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days at Dam Square. It is the main square in the city and one of Europe's most iconic. Located just a 10-minute walk from the central train station, it is home to notable points of interest, such as the National Monument, the Nieuwe Kerk Chruch and the Royal Palace. The latter formerly served as the city's Town Hall from the 17th to the 19th century. Since then, it has held status as a royal residence and is known for its collection of sculptures, paintings and period furniture. We recommend choosing the Skip-the-Line ticket if you want to explore this impressive building and its wonders after spending some time simply wandering around the square and taking in the unique sights, sounds and characters that are typically present on most days.
The Bloemenmarkt
Your first day in Amsterdam continues with an exploration of the iconic Bloemenmarkt, or flower market. It is located on the Singel Canal in the heart of the city's famed UNESCO Canal Ring. This unique market dates to 1862, when it served as a spot for flower growers to sell their products after moving them into the city on barges that travelled down the Amstel River. These days it is one of the most popular spots for those spending time on holiday in the Dutch capital. After you are done exploring, you can head to one of the many nearby restaurants and cafés for a bite to eat.
Itinerary in Amsterdam: day 2
The Oude Kerk
The second day of your Amsterdam itinerary starts off at one of the area's architectural masterpieces. The Oude Kerk or Old Church is located in the Old City Centre. It is dated to the year 1213, which makes it the oldest building in the area. Famed for its beautiful Gothic-style architecture, the church features a tower that offers you the chance to take in one of the most spectacular views you can enjoy from within the city. There is a fee for taking the trip to the top, but it is worth the experience. Opening hours for this renowned location run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Begijnhof Garden
The Begijnhof Garden is a secluded spot near Spui Square that is another highly recommended location to visit during your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. This magical garden was built during the medieval period. It is surrounded by charming houses once occupied by women who had dedicated themselves to their religious faith. It is important to remember that this beautiful point of interest is situated in a residential area. Hence, it is important to enjoy the space in a quiet manner while admiring the lush greenery and the impressive surrounding architecture.
Itinerary in Amsterdam: day 3
The Anne Frank House
The third day of your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days is about checking out some of the city's most iconic museums. Things kick off at the Anne Frank House. A visit to the house is a must if it is your first time in Amsterdam. It is the location within the city where the young girl Anne Frank hid with her family during World War II as they attempted to avoid arrest and persecution. During her years confined to a space of only 500 square feet, Frank wrote down what her experience was like in a diary that has since become famous for its historical importance. You can see this famed journal, as well as many other unique items, during your tour. You will also learn more about the inspiring story of the Frank family and the way that others risked their own lives to help them stay safe. Given the popularity of this attraction, we recommend booking your tickets in advance and getting an early start. Opening hours run from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Museumplein
You will find many of the city's most important and popular museums in the area known as the Museumplein. It is located in the Amsterdam-Zuid borough and is the perfect spot to head during your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. Within the area, you will find the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the Moco Museum and the Stedelijk Museum. This fabulous square's history dates to 1883, and it also features the Concertgebouw or Concert Hall. It regularly plays host to outdoor festivals. If you visit during the winter, the pond is transformed into an ice skating rink. This is the place to head to soak up Amsterdam's culture while you visit museums that feature some of the greatest works of art ever created.
Places to visit around Amsterdam
Rotterdam
Located just over an hour from Amsterdam by car or around 40 minutes by train, Rotterdam is one of the most popular day trips you can embark on during your 3-day itinerary. It is famed for its unique mix of traditional and modern architecture as well as its outstanding dining and nightlife scene. Notable points of interest in the Netherlands' second-largest city include the Old Harbour, the Marine Museums, the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk and the Europoort. We also recommend stopping for lunch at the Market Hall, where you will find a huge selection of international fare to sample.
Utrecht
Utrecht is the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and another place around Amsterdam worth checking out as a day trip. It is home to some of the country's most beautiful canals, historical landmarks, fascinating museums and plenty of great restaurants. To get there, you will travel about 48 minutes to the south by car. The train journey takes around 36 minutes. Upon your arrival, we recommend checking out the Rietveld Schröder House, De Haar Castle, the Miffy Museum and the Dom Tower.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
1. QO Amsterdam 4*
The QO Amsterdam 4* is one of our top recommendations for your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days booked through Voyage Privé. It is located just a few minutes from the city centre in a stylish, eco-friendly building. During your stay, you will rest comfortably in a Deluxe Room with breakfast served daily.
During your time at this luxurious accommodation, you will enjoy on-site amenities, such as a laundry service, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, dry cleaning, parking and the Embody Wellbeing Studio. The property also features a pair of restaurants as well as in-room facilities that include a flat-screen TV, locally roasted coffee and an iPad.
What we like: We love this hotel's focus on sustainability as well as its excellent location, which is convenient for visiting all of the spots on this Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days.
2. Pulitzer Amsterdam 5*
Home to 224 rooms, the Pulitzer Amsterdam 5* is a luxurious booking option for your 3-day escape to this iconic European city. It is set across a collection of properties along the historic Prinsengracht Canal and boasts impressive city views from a scenic terrace. During your stay, you will rest comfortably in a Generous Room with breakfast available each morning.
A few notable facilities and amenities you can look forward to with this property include a pair of restaurants and a bar, air conditioning, a 24-hour reception desk, Wi-Fi, a concierge service and a fitness centre.
What we like: We love the central location of this property, which is convenient for your exploration of Amsterdam as well as its setting in a collection of historic properties along one of the region's most iconic canals.
3. InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam 5*
You will find 55 rooms and 24 suites at the InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam 5*. The property is located on the banks of the Amstel River and is home to Gault Millau, an 18/20-rated restaurant that features a terrace. You will also enjoy the on-site Health & Fitness Club, which offers a heated indoor pool. This deal is based on accommodation in an Executive Room with a city view, and breakfast served each morning.
You can avail yourself of a huge offering of on-site amenities when you choose this booking for your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. They include Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception desk, a concierge service, 4 restaurants/bars and a range of leisure facilities. In-room features include a mini-bar, satellite TV and a waterfall shower.
What we like: We love the beautiful setting of this property in the heart of Amsterdam and inside a monumental building. The hotel's outstanding leisure facilities add plenty to this excellent option that you can select through Voyage Privé.
4. The Manor Amsterdam 4*
With 125 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, the Manor Amsterdam 4* is another one of our top picks for your 3-day itinerary in this beloved city. The property perfectly blends its historic past with a contemporary interior design. The Oost neighbourhood is nearby. It is home to beautiful canals and galleries as well as unique cafés.
A quick rundown of key amenities and facilities featured at this property include air conditioning, indoor parking, a 24-hour reception desk, Wi-Fi, a laundry service, bike rental and a shop.
What we like: We love the hotel's convenient proximity to one of Amsterdam's most iconic neighbourhoods as well as its optional excursions, such as a panoramic tour of the city that includes a cruise.
5. Jan Luyken Hotel Amsterdam 4*
Located in the city's museum quarter, the Jan Luyken Hotel Amsterdam 4* is a great option for your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. It features beautifully designed, comfortable rooms with breakfast served each morning.
On-site facilities featured at this property include bike rental, a library, luggage storage, Wi-Fi, a bar, a breakfast restaurant, a lounge area and a 24-hour reception desk. The property's in-room amenities include a hairdryer, bathrobes, a safe, a mini-fridge and a kettle.
What we like: We love the fabulous location offered by this property, which makes it easy for you to explore the best museums that Amsterdam offers.
Practical tips for visiting Amsterdam
We have a few key tips to ensure you make the most of your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. They include picking up an OV-chipkaart for convenient access to public transportation around the city. You also should consider pre-booking any tickets to attractions in advance when possible. The local currency is the euro, and the official language is Dutch. With that said, a large percentage of the population also speaks English. If you are planning on using any electrical devices that require a UK-type plug, you will need a travel adapter. You also want to keep in mind that the weather in Amsterdam can get cool and rainy at times. Because of this, it is a good idea to pack accordingly.
When to visit Amsterdam
If you are looking for the warmest weather and the most festivals and events that are on across the city, a travel date from June to August is your best bet. With that said, off-season bookings are also popular, and they are perfect for travellers looking to avoid the most crowds and the highest prices.
How to get to Amsterdam
You can conveniently book your flights from the UK to Amsterdam out of major travel hubs across the country. There are routes available daily from top airlines. The average in-air time is around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Upon landing, you will find a robust network of public transportation options and taxi services. If you prefer to take things at your own pace, you might consider hiring a car for your holidays.
What to eat in Amsterdam
We have a list of must-try foods for your Amsterdam itinerary of 3 days. They include local favourites like bitterballen, pannenkoeken, herring, stroopwafels and stamppot. If you are looking for a unique experience, you will also find many hot food vending machines around the city. They are the perfect option for a late-night snack after an evening out on the town.
FAQ Stays in Amsterdam
Stay in the luxurious De L'Europe 5* hotel and enjoy the fine cuisine of its 2 Michelin starred restaurant. For an original stay, choose the historic building of the Manor Amsterdam Hotel 4*. The Pulitzer Amsterdam 5* offers you an ideal location on the side of the city's canals.
If you are on a short vacation, you can easily visit Amsterdam 3 days. If you have more time, you can use it to explore the surroundings. Learn more and discover all you can do in Amsterdam !