How to City Break in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is arguably the most notorious player on the city-break scene. Other destinations blush when they hear what it got up to the other night. Depending on your idea of a good time, you’ll be pleased that the capital of the Netherlands invariably fulfils and defies its reputation. Whether you’re a hedonist seeking a wild weekend or a tourist on the sightseeing trail, there are countless things to do in Amsterdam, whatever your disposition. Here’s our guide to how you can Amster-cram as much into a day as possible. The rest of the visit is up to you.

MORNING

For the tourist
If a lie-in’s not on your agenda, get a taste of the city while it’s (relatively) quiet. Wander along the tranquil canals that dissect the city as the sun rises behind the iconic red canal houses, scored by the duelling trills of morning birdsong and eager cyclists. This should work up an appetite for the slap-up breakfast you can find at any of Amsterdam’s cafes. We recommend Greenwoods’ Tea Room in the West Canal Belt.

If you’re not sure what to do in Amsterdam, the morning can be a great time to visit Amsterdam museums before the crowds gather. You’ll be spoiled for choice; Amsterdam boasts more museums per square mile than any city in the world. The Museum Quarter is a safe bet, housing Amsterdam’s top three museums: The Rjiks, The Van Gogh, and the Stedelijk.

For the hedonist
You’ll probably need a while to sleep off last night’s hangover. If you’ve landed in one of the many Amsterdam hotels that offer room service, take advantage. If not, seek out De Bakkerswinkel, a popular cafe in the Red Light District that welcomes large groups and serves the sort of rich cuisine you need to soak up the alcohol still lingering in your bloodstream.

AFTERNOON

For the tourist
There’s a potentially baffling array of restaurants in Amsterdam to choose from for lunch. If you’re reluctant to postpone your sightseeing tour, The Blue is a perfect compromise. This rooftop restaurant situated in Central Amsterdam has floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, giving you a 360 degree view of the city while you eat.

Endless Amsterdam attractions vie for your afternoon. Experience the sombre history of the Anne Frank House, marvel at the splendour of the Royal Palace, or develop tulip mania at the world-famous Floating Flower Market. Take advantage of Amsterdam’s excellent public transport to pack in as much as possible.

For the hedonist
Just because you’re supposed to be having fun doesn’t mean you can’t get a dose of culture. If traditional art and history aren’t your bag, time travel instead through 3000 years of bizarre sexual history at the renowned Erotic Museum. Alternatively, track down the Torture Museum and the Hash, Marihuana & Hemp Museum for histories of… well, even your addled mind can work that out.

Your city-break would be meaningless without stepping into one of the notorious Amsterdam coffee shops. Although not strictly legal, these iconic tolerated establishments offer a menu of highs. Just make sure to pace yourself and stay safe.

EVENING

For the tourist
You’ll be peckish after your busy day but still ravenous to see more of the city. Get a unique tour of Amsterdam at night by jumping aboard an Amsterdam Jewel Cruise, and dine in style while getting a unique perspective on the famous tourist sites from the city’s canals. Alternatively, get a real flavour for the city with the traditional Dutch cuisine of Haesje Claes in Central Amsterdam.

Amsterdam nightlife is varied enough to suit all tastes. Chill out in the elegance of Vyne wine bar, or revel in the rambunctious live blues at Bourbon Street Bar. Koinklijk and Stadsschouwburg theatres feature the best plays in Amsterdam, or laugh the night away at one of the city’s numerous comedy clubs. Just make sure you get some sleep; you’ll need your energy for the rest of your break.

For the hedonist
For you, the night is when the city comes to life. Line your stomach at an Amsterdam restaurant of your choice and strap in for a very long night.

Start out at one of Amsterdam’s bars, scattered all over the city. We recommend the jovial atmosphere of Mulligan’s Irish Bar, or, for the deviants amongst you, The Banana Bar. When you’re ready to move on, Rembrandtplein is clubbing central. If you’ve heard tell of the city’s seedier side, all we’ll say is that, yes, prostitution is legal, and most prominent in the Red Light District.

When you’re finally ready to call it a night, stop by FEBO in Rembrandtplein for your fast food fix. Just make sure you can keep it down.

To plan the rest of your Amsterdam city-break, please pay a visit to My Destination Amsterdam for a comprehensive guide to the city compiled by local experts.

Share and Enjoy

Tags: Amsterdam, City break

Category: Expert Guides, Inspiration