If you’re planning a short trip, this guide will show you 1 day in Amsterdam with a detailed walking itinerary, map included, so you can make the most of your visit.
Seeing Amsterdam in a day might seem impossible, but with good planning, you can explore the main highlights without missing the best spots. Canals, historic houses, museums, markets, viewpoints, the Red Light District… Amsterdam is perfect for exploring on foot!
I’ve also included tips, practical advice, and options to adapt the route depending on your interests or the time you have.
🎟️ Recommended bookings for your 1 day Amsterdam trip
Before starting the route, here are some bookings that will save you time and queues. Essential if you travel during peak season or weekends:
These are affiliate links. They don’t cost extra and help me keep creating guides like this. Thanks!
🇳🇱 Full route for 1 day in Amsterdam
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do in Amsterdam in one day and how to organize your visit:
🚶♀️ Morning: Canals, flowers, and architecture
Start around 8:30 AM from your centrally located accommodation and head to the Singel canal, one of the most picturesque in Amsterdam. Here you’ll see houseboats, bike-filled bridges, and photogenic narrow facades.
If you haven’t had breakfast yet, try:
🍪 Van Stapele Koekmakerij: famous for its chocolate cookie filled with chocolate
🧇 Melly’s Stroopwafels: classic Dutch caramel-filled waffles
From there, continue to the Bloemenmarkt, the floating flower market that opens at 9:00 AM. You’ll find tulips, souvenirs, and local products.
Nearby, check out the Dancing Houses, leaning houses along the Amstel River that look like they’re dancing—one of the most Instagrammable spots in Amsterdam.
🖼️ Midday: art and nature
From the Dancing Houses, take the tram or walk to Museumplein, the main cultural square. Here, you can visit the Van Gogh Museum, home to iconic works like Sunflowers and The Bedroom. Book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
Afterward, relax at Vondelpark, right behind the museum. Perfect for a picnic, sunbathing, or enjoying a drink at the terraces if the weather is nice.
🛥️ Afternoon: Canals, history, and local vibes
After lunch, take a canal cruise. Boats usually depart near Central Station or the Rijksmuseum, lasting 60–90 minutes with an English audio guide.
Next, walk to Begijnhof, a peaceful 14th-century courtyard surrounded by historic houses. You’re just minutes from Dam Square, home to the Royal Palace and the National Monument.
End your day in the Red Light District. Famous for its windows, it’s also home to beautiful canals, historic bars like De Prael, and the Oude Kerk church.
💰 Estimated budget for 1 day in Amsterdam
Transport (tram): €8–10
Museum entrance: €20
Canal cruise: €15
Meals: €20–30
Total: €60–80 per person (excluding accommodation or extras)
✈️ How to get from Schiphol airport to central Amsterdam
The fastest way is the direct train to Central Station, taking 15–20 minutes and departing every few minutes.
Other options: transfers, buses, or private taxis.
🍽️ Where to eat in Amsterdam in a day
Some recommended spots along this route:
🥪 Foodhallen: international food stalls in a covered market
🧀 Kaaskelder Henri Willig: local cheese shop and tasting
☕ Café Winkel 43: best apple pie in town
🛏️ Where to stay in Amsterdam
Depending on your budget:
💎 Eden Hotel Amsterdam: central and modern
💼 Grand Hotel Downtown: great value
💰 XO Hotel Inner: budget-friendly
🚲 Getting around Amsterdam
For one day, walking or tram is ideal. Bikes are great if you’re confident in traffic. If visiting museums and moving around a lot, the I Amsterdam City Card can be cost-effective.
💡 Tips for visiting Amsterdam in 1 day
Book museum tickets and activities in advance
Wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear
Use Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate
Consider a free morning tour for historical context
Arrive early to avoid crowds at popular attractions
🌷 Recommended excursions from Amsterdam
If you have extra time or want to combine your visit with nearby cities:
❓ FAQs about 1 day in Amsterdam
Is it worth visiting Amsterdam for one day?
Yes! You can see the highlights—canals, museums, Dam Square, Red Light District, and a canal cruise. Great for a short trip or stopover.
Where to go first day in Amsterdam?
Start at the Singel canal and plan your route towards Museumplein, Dam Square, and the Red Light District.
What do 3 x’s mean in Amsterdam?
The triple X symbol is part of the city’s coat of arms and appears in streets, flags, and souvenirs.
What to bring for a 1-day trip in Amsterdam?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, and a bank card (cash is less common).
🗺️ Map of the 1 day Amsterdam Route
Here’s the map with all stops for your walking itinerary to carry with you during your trip to Amsterdam.
🤔 Is it worth visiting Amsterdam for one day?
Yes, although Amsterdam has so much to offer, in one day you can get a great sense of the city’s atmosphere and enjoy its most iconic spots. With a well-organized itinerary, you can see the prettiest canals, visit a museum, stroll through the liveliest streets, and even take a canal cruise. It’s perfect for a layover or a short getaway. However, if you have more days, I recommend extending your visit to explore less touristy neighborhoods and take nearby excursions.
📝 Related articles
- Things to do in Holland
- 1 day in Amsterdam
- 2 days in Amsterdam
- 3 days in Amsterdam
- 4 days in Amsterdam
- Things to do in Rotterdam
- Rotterdam to Amsterdam
- Things to do in Utrecht
- Utrecht to Amsterdam
- Amsterdam to Keukenhof
- Zaanse Schans Zaandam Netherlands
- Day Tours from Amsterdam
Deja una respuesta