3 days in Amsterdam itinerary: Best things to do in Amsterdam

Are you planning a trip and wondering how to spend 3 days in Amsterdam? Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore the city at a relaxed pace, enjoy its museums, wander through charming neighborhoods, and even take a day trip nearby. In this guide, I’ve prepared a complete 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary with a step-by-step route, map, tips, and all the best things to do in Amsterdam.

ℹ️ At the end of the article, you’ll find a summarized list of places to see in Amsterdam, organized by day, so you can save it and consult it whenever you have any questions during your trip.

Complete 3 days in Amsterdam itinerary

Here’s how to organize your visit to make the most of your stay:

🎨 Day 1: Historic center, canals & first impressions

🕘 Morning – Heart of Amsterdam

• Dam Square: The city’s central hub with the Royal Palace and National Monument.

• Jordaan District: Narrow streets, canals, boutique shops, and cafés – ideal for a relaxed stroll.

• Anne Frank House (book online in advance): One of the most moving experiences in Amsterdam.

🕑 Afternoon – Canals & iconic spots

• Canal Cruise: Essential to get oriented. Choose a classic or evening option.

• Begijnhof: A quiet courtyard with medieval houses and a hidden church. Free entry.

• Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market): The floating flower stalls are a colorful stop.

• Red Light District: Best to visit in the afternoon, when it’s lively but not overcrowded.

🖼️ Day 2: Museums, parks & modern Amsterdam

🕘 Morning – The classics

• Rijksmuseum: The most important museum in the Netherlands. Don’t miss Rembrandt’s Night Watch.

• Van Gogh Museum (book ahead): A must for art lovers. Well-curated and interactive.

• Vondelpark: Relax in the city’s most famous park after your museum visits.

🕑 Afternoon – Alternative neighborhoods

• De Pijp: A vibrant district full of restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the Albert Cuyp Market.

• Foodhallen (optional for lunch): A trendy covered market with international food stalls.

• A’DAM Lookout: Cross with the free ferry behind Central Station for panoramic views and even try the swing over the edge.

🌷 Day 3: Day trips & hidden gems

On your third day you can either go deeper into Amsterdam or enjoy a short trip nearby.

Option A – Hidden corners in Amsterdam

• NDSM Wharf: A creative district with street art and alternative cafés.

• Museum of Prostitution or Rembrandt House: Unique museums beyond the classics.

• Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes): Shopping area full of local boutiques.

Option B – Day trips from Amsterdam

• Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken: Windmills, cheese, and traditional Dutch houses.

• Keukenhof Tulip Gardens (spring only): One of the world’s most beautiful flower displays.

• Utrecht: Canals, medieval center, and less touristy vibe.

• Rotterdam & The Hague: Modern architecture and political heart of the Netherlands.

💰 Budget for 3 days in Amsterdam

👉 Is €300 enough for 3 days in Amsterdam?
Yes, if you stay in budget accommodation and eat at affordable places, €300 can cover transport, attractions, and food.

👉 Is €600 enough for 3 days in Amsterdam?
Definitely. With €600 you can stay in a mid-range hotel, enjoy more restaurants, and book a few extra activities.

✈️ How to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam

• Train: Fastest and cheapest, 15–20 minutes to Central Station.

• Bus 397: Direct service to Museumplein and Leidseplein.

• Private transfer: Convenient if you carry luggage or arrive late at night.

🍽️ Where to eat in Amsterdam

• Moeders – Traditional Dutch cuisine in a cozy setting.

• Foodhallen – International street food under one roof.

• The Pancake Bakery – Famous for Dutch pancakes.

🛏️ Where to stay in Amsterdam

• 💎 Eden Hotel Amsterdam: central and modern

• 💼 Grand Hotel Downtown: great value

• 💰 XO Hotel Inner: budget-friendly

🚲 Getting around Amsterdam

• Walking is the best way to see the center.

• Biking is fun, but only if you feel confident in heavy traffic.

• Public transport: Get a GVB 3-day pass for unlimited metro, tram, and bus rides.

• Free ferries behind Central Station connect to the north side.

🎟️ Recommended bookings for your 3 days in Amsterdam

Since Amsterdam is very popular, book these experiences in advance:

• 🌙 Amsterdam night canal cruise – Enjoy a magical evening sailing through the city’s iconic canals illuminated by the night lights.
• ✅ Free walking tour of Amsterdam – Discover the city’s history and hidden gems with this free guided tour.
• 🚲 Amsterdam bike tour – Make the most of your 2 days exploring the city like a local on two wheels.
• 🎫 I amsterdam City Card – Get access to top attractions, museums, public transport, and discounts with this all-in-one city card.
• 🖼️ Madame Tussauds Amsterdam ticket – Visit the world-famous wax museum and pose with lifelike figures of international celebrities.
• 🎨 Van Gogh Museum guided tour – Dive into the fascinating life and masterpieces of Van Gogh with a guided visit to his museum.
• 🏠 Anne Frank tour through the Jewish Quarter – Learn the moving story of Anne Frank and her family while exploring the Jewish Quarter and her former house.
• 🚤 Amsterdam canal boat tour – Experience the city from a different perspective while sailing along its beautiful canals.

💡 Tips for visiting Amsterdam

✅ Book popular attractions in advance.
🚌 Buy a GVB 3-day pass for transport.
🚲 Cycle only if comfortable with traffic.
💳 Card payments are the norm.
🎒 Comfortable shoes are essential.
📱 Use Google Maps or 9292.nl for transport.
🌦️ Pack a small umbrella – the weather changes fast.

🌷 Recommended day Trips from Amsterdam

If you have extra time or want to combine your visit with nearby cities:

• 🏘️ Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken in one day

• 🌷 Keukenhof Tulip Gardens (seasonal)

• 🚂 Utrecht day trip

• 🌆 Rotterdam and The Hague day trip

❓ FAQs about Amsterdam

• Is 3 days enough to visit Amsterdam?
  Yes, 3 days is perfect to see the highlights and still enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.

• Where to go in Amsterdam for first timers?
  Start with the historic center, Jordaan, a canal cruise, the Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum.

• Is €300 enough for 3 days in Amsterdam?
  Yes, on a budget. Stick to hostels or budget hotels, eat at markets or affordable cafés.

• Is €600 enough for 3 days in Amsterdam?
  Yes, this budget allows for a more comfortable hotel, restaurants, and extra tours.

🤔 Is it worth visiting Amsterdam in 3 days?

Absolutely. With 3 days in Amsterdam, you’ll have enough time to explore the city’s highlights, visit top museums, enjoy the canals, and even take a short day trip nearby. It’s the ideal balance between sightseeing and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the Dutch capital.

📝 Amsterdam guide to download

Here’s a detailed itinerary with the best places to visit in Amsterdam, which you can save and use as a guide during your trip.

✅ Detailed 3-day itinerary:

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