What to do during your 3 day visit to Amsterdam.

Traveling to Amsterdam? You’ll fall in love with the canals and the locals pedaling through the city on bike. It’s such a lovely, unique part of Europe that deserves to be explored! This travel diary will cover everything we did during our 3 night stay in Amsterdam.

Where to Stay:

We stayed in the Jordaan neighborhood a the Barrio Bed & Breakfast . We loved the location, the owners were so friendly and helpful, and the breakfast was delicious!

What to do:

  • Bloemenmarkt, Flower Market: Visit the flower market, especially if you’re unable to travel during tulip field season!
  • Anne Frank House: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. We did an introductory session to start, then an audio tour during.
  • Vondel Park: Because you’ll need a pick me up after the Anne Frank House. This park is similar to Central Park.
  • Museums: Van Gogh, Moco. We did not go into a museum, but if that’s your thing, Amsterdam has plenty of amazing ones to choose from!
  • House of Bols: Self guided Local Liquor Tour with a cocktail at the end for only 16 Euros!
  • Heineken Tour: We went to house of Bols instead, but if you’d prefer beer this is a great option!
  • Canal Cruise: We did an evening cruise with a live captain and drinks included! I would suggest doing this versus an audio tour.
  • A’DAM Lookout: You’ll head to a giant swing on a rooftop for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city.
  • Ferry to NDSM: To reach the A’DAM look out, you will have to take a FREE Ferry. It is located near the train station. NDSM is a modern part of Amsterdam.
  • Eye Film Museum: We just stopped in here after we went on the lookout swing. Part of the museum is free to visit.
  • Rent Bikes: We rented bicycles next to the Lookout Swing and biked to NDSM where we explored art and unique cafes.
  • Red Light District: We walked through this on a Wednesday evening, and it was so crowded. If you’re curious about it, it is safe and police are everywhere, but do not take photos.

Where to Eat/Drink:

  • Waterkant: Dutch Food, plus drinks by the water.
  • Lucca Pizzeria: Delicious pizza and charcuterie board.
  • Vespar: Small cocktail bar
  • Van Stapele: Made to order chocolate cookie, with melted white chocolate inside. We took them to cafe de Zwart for some coffee and devoured them!
  • TEDS: Brunch all ay.
  • Brouwerij ‘t IJ: Brewery inside of a Windmill is a must!
  • Sky Lounge: Inside of a hotel with an amazing view of the city.
  • Ice Bar: Buy your tickets in advance, this was very touristy, but a unique experience. They set the bar at -10 degrees celsius!
  • Proeflokall Kef: After taking the ferry to NDSM, we stopped here for wine+cheese on our bike ride.
  • Noorderlicht: A cafe in a greenhouse in NOORD (NDSM)
  • Pllek: A cafe made of shipping containers, with an outdoor patio “beach” vibe.
  • Door 74: It’s a speak easy! Come in for a cocktail, but don’t be surprised if you need to give someone a “ring” before entering!

What I wore:

Our trip was during the end of September and there was intermittent rain. My staple wardrobe included short black leather, waterproof booties from J. Crew Factory, black jeans, spanx faux leather leggings, a cardigan, and a black midi length rain coat.

Stay Fearless,

& Travel Often

Michelle Foster