Michelle Cacija

Step into the heart of Amsterdam, where adventure awaits around every corner! From the moment you arrive, the city’s enchanting canals will draw you in, weaving their way through vibrant neighborhoods. Feel the pulse of Amsterdam as countless bicycles zip past, creating a unique rhythm that defines daily life here. Stroll through bustling flower markets, where many colors and scents captivate your senses. And, like it or not, the occasional whiff of cannabis reminds you that you’re in a city where tradition meets the unexpected. Ready to dive in? If yes, then servus and welcome to my three-day itinerary – let’s explore Amsterdam’s captivating blend of beauty!

As always, I want to remind you, that this blog isn’t perfect because everyone travels differently, and all trips involve changes of plans. I want to let you know that everything on this website has been experienced, photographed, and written by me. Since I finance all of my travel expenses on my own, the stories and opinions given are truly my own. If you’re interested in seeing more travel pictures or videos, feel free to check out my Instagram @michellecacija or my Tik Tok @michellecacija.

Index

1. The Basics about Amsterdam
2. Things you need to be aware of
3. Medical insurance
4. Itinerary
5. Summary of activities
6. Summary of where to eat

The Basics about Amsterdam

When to visit

Amsterdam is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are probably spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During spring, the famous tulip fields bloom, creating a magical landscape, while autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in these seasons, making it perfect for exploring the city on foot or by bike. In contrast, summer (June to August) brings warmer weather with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter (December to February) is colder, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F). My partner and I visited at the beginning of September, and enjoyed mild temperatures and a pleasant mix of summer’s liveliness and autumn’s tranquility.

Time period

A stay of three to four days is ideal for experiencing the city’s highlights, such as the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and a canal cruise, while still allowing time to explore hidden gems, vibrant neighborhoods, and local markets. To make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to book some attractions and activities ahead of time, especially popular spots like the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House, which often sell out quickly. When we visited, we couldn’t visit the Anne Frank House since it was booked out, unfortunately.

With more days, you could delve deeper into Amsterdam’s cultural scene by visiting more museums, immerse yourself further in the local culture, or take day trips to nearby cities like Utrecht or Haarlem, or even enjoy the scenic nature in areas such as the Zaanse Schans or the iconic flower fields, particularly during spring when the tulips are in full bloom.

Getting There

Amsterdam is easily accessible by air, train, and bus. Schiphol Airport connects the city to destinations worldwide. High-speed trains like the Thalys and Eurostar link Amsterdam to nearby cities, while buses and cars provide affordable alternatives for shorter trips. Many travelers choose to combine a trip to Amsterdam with Brussels, as the bus connection between the two cities is fast, affordable, and convenient.

Where to stay

Amsterdam offers a range of accommodations, from hostels and charming houseboats on the canals to luxury hotels in the city center (Centrum). It’s important to note that many of the traditional houses in Amsterdam are quite special, with narrow, steep staircases and no elevators. Before booking accommodation, make sure to check the accessibility, especially if you have heavy luggage or if you are physically unable to manage steep stairs.

Getting around

The best way of getting around is either walking or riding a bike, offering a local and flexible way to explore. While biking is a very traditional and iconic activity in Amsterdam, it can also get quite crowded, as both locals and tourists alike use bikes to navigate the city. Public transport, including trams, buses, and ferries, are efficient and well-connected.

What to pack

Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack accordingly. Depending on the season, you might experience everything from sunny days to sudden rain showers. Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. In the summer, temperatures can be warm, so lighter clothes may be necessary, while winter requires warmer clothing like jumpers, gloves, a beanie etc.

Additionally, consider bringing your own little medication bag, including Band-Aids, pain relief tablets, sleeping tablets or spray, bug spray, after-sun lotion, and any personal items you may need. You never know what you might require, and you might feel more comfortable using medication from home rather than dealing with unfamiliar brands or ingredients in a foreign country. If you’re coming from outside Europe, don’t forget to bring a Type C power adapter for your electronics. Also, be sure to pack a reusable water bottle, as Amsterdam’s tap water is clean and drinkable.

Cost of Traveling

Amsterdam can be pricey, but it offers options for every budget. Museums or similiar activities with entry fees can add up, but free activities like strolling along the canals, exploring parks, or visiting markets can help balance costs. The choice of accommodation also plays a big role – opting for budget-friendly places like hostels or guesthouses can save you money. Avoiding peak tourist seasons can also help keep costs down.

Things you need to be aware of

Sundays. It’s important to note that most stores are either closed or have shorter opening hours on Sundays. However, some shops in more central and tourist-heavy areas may stay open a bit later due to the many visitors. Museums and parks are popular spots for a laid-back Sunday, offering cultural experiences and scenic views to round out the weekend. Supermarkets, on the other hand, are usually open throughout the week, making it convenient to pick up any essentials.

Water in Netherlands. Tap water in Netherlands is of high quality and safe to drink throughout the country. Sourced from natural springs and well-maintained reservoirs, it undergoes rigorous testing to meet European Union standards.

Toilet situation. Public toilets in Amsterdam can be a bit of a challenge to find, and they often require a small fee. However, most cafes and restaurants offer restroom facilities for customers. It’s always a good idea to carry some change, as many public toilets still operate on a coin system. For those looking for free options, larger train stations typically have accessible restrooms.

Tipping in Amsterdam is generally modest compared to other countries. A service charge is often included in restaurant bills, but it’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip if the service was exceptional. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, a few extra euros are appreciated.

Currency. The currency used in Amsterdam is the Euro (€). Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but having some cash on hand is always useful, especially for small purchases or at local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, making it easy to withdraw euros as needed.

Medical insurance

I highly recommend getting travel medical insurance while you’re traveling. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. SafetyWing offers two flexible plans tailored to your travel needs — whether you’re a short-term adventurer or a long-term expat, you’ll have reliable coverage anywhere in the world.

SafetyWing is especially great for remote workers and digital nomads, offering continuous global coverage even if you’re hopping between countries. Of course, it’s also a solid option for frequent travelers or those constantly on the go. But if you’re only traveling occasionally or just for a short holiday now and then, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Itinerary

Day 1

After arriving in Amsterdam late the previous afternoon and taking a leisurely stroll through the city’s vibrant streets, we were eager to dive into our first full day of adventure. Our day began with a visit to the iconic A’DAM Lookout, a must-see for anyone wanting to get a true sense of Amsterdam’s charm.

As we reached the top, the amazing views took our breath away. From up there, we could almost see the whole city — winding canals, historic rooftops, and busy streets stretched out in every direction. It was the perfect way to get a feel for the city and admire the unique beauty of Amsterdam.

But the adventure didn’t end with the nice view. Inside, we also did the Amsterdam VR ride, an exciting virtual reality experience that took us flying over the city’s famous landmarks, through the canals, and even across rooftops. It was a fun and exciting way to see the city from a completely new angle. Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying the “Over the Edge” swing. Sitting high above the city, swinging out over the edge of the building was both scary and thrilling, giving us a real sense of Amsterdam’s adventurous side.

Visitor information: The prices for adults (age 12+) are €16.50, while children (age 4-12) can get in for €10.50. Additionally, you can enjoy a €2 discount when you book online. For more information, click here to visit the website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

After our exciting morning, we came back down to the streets and started walking around the city. We explored the Jordaan district, with its narrow, flower-filled streets and cozy cafes. We stopped often to enjoy the views and soak in the atmosphere that Amsterdam is so famous for. We also went for lunch at an Asian restaurant, savoring the delicious flavors. After lunch, we continued our stroll, walking into a few more shops and enjoying the beautiful streets of the city.

By late afternoon, we were ready for a slower pace. We took a peaceful canal cruise, gliding gently through the water. As we cruised past boat houses, we learned a lot about Amsterdam’s rich history, gaining fascinating insights into the city’s past and its unique architecture. We admired the beautiful buildings and bridges, and enjoyed the calm of the canals, which felt like a quiet escape from the busy city streets. As the sun set, the reflections of the old houses on the water made for a magical end to our first full day in Amsterdam.

Day 2

We started our second day with a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, and it was definitely worth it. Stepping into this iconic museum, we were immediately immersed in the world of Van Gogh. From his early works to his famous sunflowers and starry nights, the museum offers a deep dive into his life and artistic evolution. The gallery’s layout lets you follow the journey of one of the world’s most beloved artists, making it a truly moving experience. We absolutely enjoyed, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Visitor information: The prices for adults (age 18+) are €24, while students can get tickets for €11. Children under 18 years old are free to enter but still need to book a free ticket online in advance. For more information, click here to visit the website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

After leaving the museum, we decided to explore the area a bit more. Eventually, we picked up some snacks at a supermarket close by. We then made our way to Vondelpark, which was just a short stroll from the museum away. The park was lively yet peaceful, with people lounging on the grass and cyclists zooming by. The rest of the afternoon was spent simply strolling through the park and around Amsterdam’s charming streets. We wandered down narrow alleys, past beautiful canals, and through hidden courtyards, soaking in the laid-back vibe of the city. Of course, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without indulging in some local fries, so we stopped by one of the famous stands to grab a cone of crispy, golden fries.

Day 3

Our third day was one of those rainy days in Amsterdam, the kind that makes you want to stay indoors and explore the city’s attractions that don’t require you to walk around in the rain. If the weather had been nicer, we would have split these activities over a couple of days, but we decided to dive straight into the fun, starting with a visit to Madame Tussauds.

My partner is a huge fan of wax museums, and Madame Tussauds was no exception. We arrived early in the morning, and to our delight, there weren’t many people around. So we spent a few hours marveling at the lifelike figures of celebrities, historical figures, and even fictional characters. It was a fun and interactive experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos and amusing moments.

Visitor information: For general admission, the Online ticket is available from €23.50, while the Late Ticket (after 6 pm) starts from €20.50 and the Anytime Ticket starts at €37.50. If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, we recommend the combination ticket for The Amsterdam Dungeon & Madame Tussauds, which starts at €37 when purchased online. There are also other combination tickets available, but this is the one we opted for during our visit. For more information, click here to visit the website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

Visitor information: For general admission, the Online ticket is available from €23.50, while the Anytime Ticket starts at €37.50. If you’re looking to make the most of your visit, we recommend the combination ticket for The Amsterdam Dungeon & Madame Tussauds, which starts at €37 when purchased online. There are also other combination tickets available, but this is the one we opted for during our visit. For more information, click here to visit the website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

After we ate lunch and walked a little bit through the rainy Amsterdam, we wrapped up our indoor adventure with a visit to the NEMO Science Museum. The perfect place to escape once again the rain and immerse ourselves in interactive science exhibits. From hands-on experiments to fascinating displays, it was so much fun learning and playing with the various exhibits. In the evening it was time to return to our accommodation and pack our bags.

Visitor information: Tickets are €21.50 for all visitors aged 4 and above. Children under 4 can enter for free. For more information, click here to visit the website ^{(unpaid ad)}.

And with that I’ll leave you to explore Amsterdam on your own and for you Amsterdam, I’ll see you later, your distinctive scent will linger in my memory!

Summary of activities

• Canal Cruise
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne-Frank-Haus
• Madame Tussauds
• The Amsterdam Dungeon
• Nemo Museum
• Vondelpark
• Adam Lookout

Summary of where to eat

• Piqniq – brunch spot ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Croque Madame Gluten Free Food – burgers, sandwiches etc. ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Takumi Tonkotsu Ramen and Sushi – asian cuisine ^{(unpaid ad)}
• Manneken Pis Damrak – Dutch fries ^{(unpaid ad)}