One week in Amsterdam: The PERFECT Amsterdam itinerary for 7 days

Last Updated on November 30, 2024 by Lauren Allen

One week in Amsterdam is more than enough time to explore what the Dutch capital has to offer. It also allows you to explore more cities in the Netherlands.

After eight trips to the city, I’m clued up on all the best spots you NEED to add to your Amsterdam itinerary. As a frequent visitor, I’ve done more than your average tourist. From main attractions to hidden gems, this guide has it all.

In this post, you’ll get the complete run-down on how to spend a week in the city. I’ll also share restaurant recommendations and top tips if you’re visiting Amsterdam for the first time. 

Let’s get to it!

How to spend a week in Amsterdam | Amsterdam Itinerary 7 Days

If you’re planning to spend one week in Amsterdam, there’s plenty of time to explore the city’s highlights, top attractions and hidden gems. There’s also time to explore beyond the city and venture out on some day trips.

You’ll get a fantastic insight into the culture and history of the Netherlands and gain a whole new appreciation for this incredible country beyond the capital city. 

If you’re spending less than 7 days in Amsterdam, you may want to check out my other guides for shorter trips: 

• One day in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam 3 day itinerary
• How to spend a weekend in Amsterdam

A quick note: This is a very LONG and detailed post. Before going any further, I highly recommend getting a hot cup of tea or coffee to enjoy as you read. Alternatively, feel free to use the table of contents to navigate this post. 

Looking for expert guidance on your upcoming trip to the city? Feel free to ask your questions in my Facebook group all about the Netherlands!

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Day 1 in Amsterdam

On your first day in Amsterdam, you should spend some time getting to know the city. As one of the most popular cities in Europe, there are many things worth checking out. However, first, you need to eat…

Read more: The ULTIMATE Amsterdam bucket list

Grab breakfast at Greenwoods Singel

Opening hours: 9am – 3.30pm (with a later closing time of 4pm at weekends)

Before any sightseeing, it’s important to fuel up with breakfast. After all, you’re gonna need it. Greenwoods Singel is a very highly-rated brunch spot in Amsterdam known for its tasty food and cosy setting. Why not try it for yourself?

Join a walking tour of Amsterdam

As I’ve mentioned already, it’s important to spend some time getting to know the city on your first day. The best way to do this is to join a walking tour.

Walking tours are great because you’ll see many of the city’s highlights in a short space of time. Also, the guides are often locals who are from the city themselves. Due to this, they often share hidden gems and insider knowledge. 

A number of companies even offer free walking tours, such as:

• Sandeman’s Free Europe
• Free Walking Tours Amsterdam 
• Strawberry Tours 
• Free Tours by Foot
• Freedam Tours

Get to know the city on a canal cruise

Opening hours: It varies depending on the tour company

Price: General city cruises start from €16. Specialised canal cruises are typically between €22 and €80 depending on duration. 

Afterwards, another great way to get to know the city is to join a canal cruise. This is one of my favourite things to do as it allows you to see Amsterdam from a different perspective.

Personally, it’s something I’ve done on every trip to the Dutch capital. Not only does it give you time to rest your feet after clocking up thousands of steps, but you also learn more about the city. Plus, it’s a lovely activity if it’s a sunny day, especially if your boat has outdoor seating. 

There are several tour companies that offer canal cruises such as:

• Lovers Canal Cruises 
• Stromma
• Amsterdam Circle Line
• Blue Boat

I’ve tried several companies, but I personally prefer the Stromma tour. They have a port across the road from the Rijksmuseum which is ideal if you fancy museum hopping before (or after) your cruise.

There are also a number of different cruises to choose from. For example, you could opt for the city highlights cruise, a cheese and wine cruise, a New York pizza cruise, an evening cruise, a pancake cruise or a dinner cruise.

If you’re visiting during November and January, you can even join a canal tour during the Amsterdam Light Festival. These tours take you to the best light installations in town. Just make sure you wrap up warm as it’s generally quite cold.

Enjoy lunch with panoramic views of Amsterdam

Opening hours: 10am – 6.30pm (with a later closing time of 8pm on Thursdays)

After walking so many steps on your walking tour, you’re likely starving by now! After disembarking your canal cruise, head straight to Blue to dine with panoramic views of the city. 

The restaurant is conveniently located in the city centre and offers incredible views of Amsterdam. In fact, you’ll spot many of the capital’s top sights such as Central Station and the Rijksmuseum as you enjoy your food. 

Speaking of food, Blue serves a variety of dishes including all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, burgers and much more. They also serve a range of soft drinks, hot drinks, wines and cocktails. 

Ultimately, with its incredible views, helpful staff and great food, Blue is the perfect place to enjoy your first lunch in Amsterdam. 

Take a stroll down Damrak

One you’ve fuelled up, take a wander down Damrak towards Central Station. This is the perfect time to check out the Damrak dancing houses (AKA some of the most photographed buildings in the city). 

As you head towards the dancing houses, you’ll also come across a number of attractions and museums that you may want to check out (or add to your itinerary for a different day) including: 

• Bodyworlds
• The Royal Palace
• Ripleys Believe It Or Not 
• Amsterdam Dungeon 
• Madame Tussauds 
• Fashion For Good

Make a quick stop at the Tulip Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm

Price: Students: €3 | Adults €5 | Families €10

Next, make your way to the Tulip Museum. This is the best place to discover more about this popular flower and the history of tulips in The Netherlands. However as it’s such a small museum, you can be in and out quite quickly.  

Visit Anne Frank House

Opening hours: 9am – 10pm

Price: €16

Just two minutes away on foot, Anne Franks House is one of the most visited museums in the country. If you’re on your first trip to Amsterdam, I highly recommend carving out some time to visit this thought-provoking museum. 

The museum delves deep into the story of Anne and her family, sharing the terror they faced as they hid from the Nazis for over two years. You’ll also discover more about their capture and horrible experiences at concentration camps before their deaths. 

Although it’s upsetting to read, it’s a key part in the Netherlands history and the museum offers an educational insight into Anne Frank’s story. Personally, I think it’s a must-see on your Amsterdam itinerary. 

Top tip: Make sure you book a ticket ahead of time. Tickets are released six weeks in advance at 10am every Tuesday. If you don’t book, you’ll end up missing out.

Spend some time in Jordaan

Next, take things a little slower and spend some time exploring the neighbourhood of Jordaan. As well as being home to several museums, Jordaan is one of the most picture-perfect parts of Amsterdam. 

There are lots of boutique stores which makes it a must-see if you enjoy shopping. Plus, Jordaan is known for its great bars and places to eat so if you’re craving a cocktail, this is the place to be. 

Check out the De Hallen Food Hall

Opening hours: Noon – Midnight (with a later closing time of 1am on Friday and Saturday nights) 

Once you’re done exploring Jordaan, head towards De Hallen food hall to grab some dinner. This is the perfect place to go (especially if you’re travelling in a group) as they have an array of options on offer.

For example, there are stalls selling everything from traditional Dutch dishes to Vietnamese food and everything in between. De Hallen Food Hall also boasts a great atmosphere making it a fantastic place to eat if you’re travelling solo, as a couple or in a group. 

Enjoy a cocktail or two

There are many amazing cocktail bars in Amsterdam. Enjoying a drink or two is a fabulous way to end a busy day of sightseeing. After visiting lots of cocktail bars during my trips, I highly recommend:

• Flying Dutchmen Cocktails
• Rosalia’s Menagerie
• Pulitzer’s Bar 

Although they’re not the cheapest, the cocktails at these bars are all AMAZING!

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Day 2 in Amsterdam

Now that you’ve got your bearings, on day two you’ll start exploring some of Amsterdam’s many museums. The city is known for its impressive selection that showcase everything from diamonds and historical artefacts to all kinds of art.

Luckily, many of them are situated just a short walk from each other, making it easy to visit them on the same day should you wish to do so. 

Enjoy some breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam

Opening hours: 8am – 5pm (with a later closing time of 7pm at weekends)

As a Dutch speciality, you simply can’t go to Amsterdam without trying some local pancakes. Situated on the Damrak, Pancakes Amsterdam serve up some of the finest in town.

The best thing about this spot is they serve a wide variety of sweet and savoury toppings so there’s something for everyone.

Head over to the Rijksmuseum

Opening hours: 9am – 5pm

Price: €22.50

In my opinion, the Rijksmuseum is the most impressive museum in Amsterdam and 100% worth visiting. With everything from historical artefacts to world-famous art under one roof, you could easily spend a whole day here. That’s how much there is to see!

To make the most out of your visit, I recommend spending 3-4 hours checking out as much as you can before heading for lunch. Make sure you don’t forget to check out the secret library (which is a bit of a pain to find, but super worthwhile). 

Treat yourself to a fancy lunch at Rijks

Opening hours: 11.30am – 2pm and 6pm – 8.30pm (except for Mondays when the restaurant is closed)

Next door to the museum, Rijks is an upmarket and modern restaurant with a Michelin star. If you’re in the city for a special occasion (or just want to treat yourself), it’s the ideal spot to grab some lunch. Especially when you consider its location in the heart of Museumplein. 

You can choose from a selection of dishes or (depending on the time of your visit) opt to try one of their four-course or six-course tasting menus. Rijks also offer alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink pairings with each course for an extra cost. 

Visit the Van Gogh Museum

Opening hours: 9am – 6pm

Price: Students: €10 | Adults €22

Afterwards, head straight to the Van Gogh Museum. If you have a keen interest in art or specifically in Van Gogh himself, spending a few hours in the museum is a must. 

The Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of his work across the globe as well as an elaborate insight into his life as an artist. You’ll also discover more about the struggles he faced that led him to cut off his ear (yikes). 

Make your own cocktails at House of Bols

Opening hours: 1pm – 6.30pm (with a later closing time of 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights) 

Price: €19.50 – €46.50 depending on the activity or experience you choose. 

Cocktail lovers won’t want to miss a trip to House of Bols. As one of the most interactive activities in Amsterdam, House of Bols gives you the chance to create your own cocktails.

After a tour of House of Bols and a tasty cocktail at the bar, you’ll enjoy a workshop where you’ll learn how to make some cocktails with the guidance of an expert bartender. How fun! 

Admire world-famous art at the Moco Museum

Opening hours: 9am – 8pm (with a later closing time of 9pm at weekends) 

Price: Students: €21.95 | Adults €24.95

Located across the road, Moco Museum is one of the very best art galleries in Amsterdam. You’ll find many famed artists on display such as Bansky and Andy Wahol. Afterwards, you can admire unique digital art from Andrés Reisinger and Studio Irma in the basement. 

Moco Museum also has a number of sculptures on display outside. If you’re on a budget or don’t fancy parting with your hard-earned cash, you can check them out completely free of charge.

Top tip: You’ll save money if you book in advance online.

Explore Vondelpark during sunset

One of the best things to do during sunset is to take a stroll around Vondelpark. In the evenings, this huge park in the heart of Amsterdam offers a fantastic atmosphere and the chance to relax after a busy day. If you fancy it, there are even a couple of spots to enjoy a drink or two. 

Head to Moeders for dinner

Opening hours: 5pm – 10pm

Lastly, one place that needs to be on your dining list for Amsterdam is Moeders. In fact, it’s one of the most popular restaurants in the whole city. 

What makes Moeders so unique is its focus on mothers. With photos of mums all over the walls and special gifts for mum’s birthdays and Mother’s Day, it’s a popular place to dine in the Dutch capital. 

Aside from its lovely focus on mothers, Moeders is a great spot to try some local Dutch dishes in a cosy and atmospheric setting. 

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Day 3 in Amsterdam

After seeing many of Amsterdam’s top attractions in your first two days, day three is the ideal time to explore further afield.

For your first day trip, I highly recommend visiting Zaanse Schans and Zaandam. Both destinations are super close to each other and easily reached by train from Amsterdam Central. 

Grab breakfast on the go

To ensure you make the most out of your time in Zaanse Schans and Zaandam, consider grabbing breakfast on the go.

Before hopping on the train at Amsterdam Central, head to the Chocolate Company for a chai latte and a croissant. This is exactly what I’ve done in the past and I’d go back again and again…

Head towards Zaanse Schans

From Amsterdam Central, catch a train towards Zaanse Schans. The journey takes less than twenty minutes and doesn’t cost much. However, train travel is free of charge if you have an Amsterdam and Region Travel Ticket. 

Admire the unique Dutch architecture

One of my favourite things about Zaanse Schans is the unique architecture. The buildings are quite different to the type you see in Amsterdam.

During your visit, spend some time wandering around while you admire the green wooden homes that take you back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries in the Netherlands. 

Learn more about the Netherlands at the Zaans Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm

Price: Students: €11.50 | Adults €14.50

Checking out the Zaans Museum is one of the best things to do in Zaanse Schans. This popular heritage museum focuses on the history of the local area so it’s an ideal place to visit to learn more about the Netherlands. 

As well as historical exhibits, there’s a collection of art from artists who have been heavily inspired by the local region. This includes the likes of the world-famous Claude Monet who visited the area in the 1870s. 

You can also visit the Verkade Experience to discover how chocolate and biscuits were made in this celebrated factory in the 20th century. 

Explore the Weaver’s House

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm

Price: €3

Next up, take a short stroll over to the Weavers’ House. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff members who will then take you on a short tour of the building. After a quick demonstration of the weavers’ looms, you’ll be left to visit at your own pace and read the information on display. 

Back in the 18th century, this building was home to two families including several kids. With five looms in the building, it was a tight squeeze and all members of the family were expected to work.

Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe or restaurant

When you start to get peckish, head to one of the nearby cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat. There are a number of options in the area such as:

• Restaurant Diga: An Italian restaurant with beautiful views of the Zaanse Schans windmills.
• De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis: Perfect if you want to dine somewhere with friendly staff and a great atmosphere.
• Slager aan de Schans: A restaurant that specialises in meat dishes (but also offers vegan and vegetarian options).
• Restaurant De Kraai: For lovers of pancakes.

Discover how clogs are made at the Clog Workshop

Opening hours: 8am – 6pm

After lunch, head straight to the Clogs Workshop. Here you will see how the traditional wooden shoes of the Netherlands are made.

The clog workshop (which is free to visit) is family-run and offers regular demonstrations of this Dutch craft. To this day, they still use the same methods that were used over a century ago. 

After watching the demonstration, you’ll have the chance to check out their large collection of wooden shoes in a wide range of different styles. Some have even been beautifully carved or decorated with colourful paintwork. However, the most unique has to be roller skate clogs. I couldn’t believe my eyes!

Head to Zaandam

Once you’re done exploring Zaanse Schans and its many attractions, head towards Zaandam. You can opt to travel by public transport which takes approximately half an hour. Alternatively, the walk from Zaanse Scans to Zaandam takes one hour.

See the Instagram famous lego hotel

Perhaps the most photographed spot in Zaandam is the Instagram-famous Inntel Hotel. Known for its unique Lego-like exterior, it makes the perfect backdrop for photos. 

Dine at one of the city’s well-loved restaurants

Zaandam is known for its shops, restaurants and bars, making it a great spot to grab dinner and a few drinks after a busy day. Consider checking out:

• Restaurant Castel: Highly rated for its staff, service and tasty food.
• Cartel: Known for artisan burgers and local beers.
• Verrassing aan de Zaan Restaurant: For those who love to dine in a beautiful setting.

Take in the sights of the city

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, wander around Zaandam taking in the sights and atmosphere of this stunning Dutch city before heading back to your hotel in Amsterdam.

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Day 4 in Amsterdam

Wake up early and head to Haarlem

After an early night, you should feel well rested to wake up early and head straight to Haarlem. From Amsterdam Central, this journey takes less than 20 minutes. Before you know it, you’ll be taking in the charm of a new city.

Compared to the capital, Haarlem is much more relaxed. Since many tourists skip this city altogether, you’ll find much fewer crowds at popular attractions (and in the city as a whole). If you’re sick of overtourism in Amsterdam, it’s the perfect place to go.

Enjoy breakfast at one of the best cafes in Haarlem

With so many amazing breakfast spots in Haarlem, skip breakfast on the train and wait for your arrival. The city offers lots of highly rated cafes and brunch spots, such as: 

• Toast: This charming little cafe in central Haarlem boasts a Michelin chef meaning anything you order will be delicious and full of flavour.
• By Lima: Beautifully presented dishes in a modern and clean environment. Having eaten here myself, I can’t recommend it enough. Their food is some of the best I’ve at in the whole country (no kidding).
• Café Lief: A vegan-friendly cafe offering speciality coffees. 

See the main square of Haarlem

After fuelling up, head towards Grote Markt. Located in the heart of the city, this is where you’ll find some of the most impressive buildings in Haarlem. For example, the square is home to the city hall and The Church of Saint Bavo. 

Check out some of the lovely boutique stores

One of the best things to do in Haarlem is to check out some of its amazing boutique stores. They sell everything from home decor and stationery to beautiful clothes and shoes. Some of the best shops include:

• Sissy-Boy
• Number Nine
• ID Store

Sissy Boy is my favourite shop in the city and always manages to catch my eye. In fact, on my last trip to Haarlem, I couldn’t resist buying a lovely blue shirt. If you visit just one store, make it this one.

Hit up the Teylers Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm (except for Mondays when the museum is closed) 

Price: Under 24s: €8.25 | Adults €16.50

Once you’re done shopping, make your way to the Teylers Museum. As the oldest museum in the country, this is one of the top attractions in Haarlem.

As well as interesting historical artefacts and some captivating art, the Teylers Museum is home to Pieter Teyler House; the restored and beautifully decorated home of the rich local man who founded the attraction.

Jump on a canal cruise of Haarlem

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm

Price: €19.95

Across the road (or should I say canal) from the Teylers Museum, Smidtje run canal cruises of Haarlem. Similarly to Amsterdam, the canal cruises sail past some key attractions in Haarlem including Molen de Adriaan.

Grab some lunch

After a busy morning, it’s time for some lunch! If you were spoilt for choice during breakfast, you could opt for a place on that list. Alternatively, consider some of the following options: 

• The Hive: Known for its fantastic lunch dishes, modern decor and delicious lattes. 
• Restaurant Fris: For beautifully presented dishes in a sophisticated setting. 

Visit the Frans Hals Museum

Opening hours: 11am – 5pm (except for Mondays when the museum is closed) 

Price: Under 24s: €9 | Adults €17.50

Once you’ve settled your hunger, take the short walk to the Frans Hals Museum. Despite being born in Antwerp, Frans Hals spent the majority of his life living and working in the Dutch city of Haarlem. 

The painter is known for his unique style of painting. Hals painted portraits of Haarlem residents, but what made them stand out is that he wasn’t afraid to show some personality.

Offering something completely out of the ordinary to typical portraits, Hals often painted emotions into the faces of his subjects with his famed loose brush strokes. 

In addition to the work of Frans Hals, the museum also showcases other artists’ work inspired by the famed painter. It’s a must-see for lovers of art, no matter what style you prefer. 

Go on a tour of Molen de Adriaan

Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 1pm – 5pm | Saturday and Sunday: 10.30am – 5pm

Price: €7.50

Next, make your way towards Molen de Adriaan. This is the perfect spot to discover how Dutch windmills are operated and the different uses they have (or have had in the past).

During your visit to this Haarlem attraction, your guide will give you the full lowdown. You’ll also head onto the balcony to admire lovely views of the city.

Enjoy a beer at the Jopen Brewery

Opening hours: 10am – 11.30pm (with a later closing time of 1am on Friday and Saturday nights) 

Once you’re done exploring all the best attractions in Haarlem, head to the Jopen Brewery. If you’re a beer lover, this place needs to be on your radar. 

Located just a short stroll away from the city centre, they also serve a variety of dishes if you’re on the hunt for food.

The great thing about Jopen is the extensive variety of beers on offer. I personally opted for Blurred Lines and Triple to the Tropics; two fruity beers with a tropical taste. I was a big fan! 

If you’re unsure of what to get, the staff are more than happy to offer tastings to help you decide. However, I’m certain you’ll find something to your taste.

Lastly, this place has an amazing atmosphere so it’s a fabulous spot to grab a drink or two while you rest your tired feet. 

Dine at Subliem Restaurant

Opening hours: It varies throughout the week

As one of the most highly-rated restaurants in Haarlem, Subliem Restaurant is a great contender for dinner. Like many of the cafes and restaurants in the city, they offer well-presented tasty food in a well-decorated setting. Furthermore, the restaurant is known for its impeccable service and cosy atmosphere. 

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Day 5 in Amsterdam

Enjoy breakfast at Omelegg

Opening hours: 7am – 4pm (with a later opening time of 8am on Saturdays and Sundays)

Typically, restaurants and cafes close to central train stations and attractions are tourist traps with rubbish food. However, Omelegg is just a two-minute walk from Amsterdam Central and is continuously named one of the best breakfast spots in the city. 

There are typically large queues of people waiting outside to get a table. That’s when you know it’s good! Plus, it opens at 7am which is ideal for early risers. 

Catch the ferry over to Noord

There are plenty of things to do in North Amsterdam. Located just across the water from the central train station, Noord is home to a number of the city’s top attractions. 

To get there, all you need to do is catch the ferry towards Buiksloterweg and in just a few short minutes, you’ll be in Noord. During your journey, you can admire views of A’Dam Tower and the Eye Film Museum.

Swing over the edge at A’Dam Lookout

Opening hours: 10am – 10pm

Price: €16.50+ depending on your ticket choice

A few minutes walk away from the ferry terminal, you’ll find A’dam Tower. At the very top, thrill-seekers can experience the highest swing in Europe.

During this unforgettable experience, you’ll enjoy unobstructed aerial views of the Dutch capital. It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Amsterdam! 

Go on a 5D flight over the country at This Is Holland

Opening hours: It varies throughout the week

Price: €23.50

Next door, This Is Holland is THE place to go to learn more about the country. You can even quiz yourself to see how much you know already (I scored 7 out of 10, not bad).

However, the best part about this attraction is the unique 5D flight that you get to enjoy at the end of your tour. As you “fly” over Zaanse Schans, Amsterdam Beach and many more key hotspots, you’ll even smell the tulips of Keukenhof Gardens during this sense-lifting activity. 

Make your way to NDSM Wharf and admire the street art

Around half an hour away from This Is Holland on foot, NDSM Wharf is one of the coolest areas in Amsterdam. Bursting with colourful street art, creative vibes and museums, this part of the city is completely different to anywhere else. 

Once you arrive, wander around the area to check out some street art. You’ll find everything from cartoon characters to mannequin hands sticking out of an abandoned worn-down van. Talk about different! 

If you’re in the area on the right day, you can also hunt for vintage treasures at the IJ-Hallen Flea Market.

With so many free things to do in the area, you really are spoilt for choice.

Check out the unique crane hotel

During your visit, you’ll no doubt spot the colourful-looking crane towering above the area, but did you know it’s a luxury hotel? Inside, there are several rooms all decorated in their own style. 

Staying at Faralda Crane Hotel is bound to be an interesting experience, but if it’s out of your budget, you can still admire it from afar.

Stop for some lunch

By now, you’re likely feeling a bit peckish. Luckily, there are a number of great lunch spots in NDSM Wharf. Consider checking out: 

• Restaurant Brooklyn: Serving a variety of dishes including fish, meat, pizza and pasta just a short walk from the area’s top attractions.  
• Pllek: Well-loved amongst travellers and locals, Pllek boasts a cool atmosphere and a great location on the waterfront. While I love the vibes here, the food was a bit bland. Consider eating first and heading to Pllek for a drink.

Explore the artist studios inside the NDSM Loods

Opening hours: 8am – 6pm 

Inside the huge NDSM Loods, you’ll find a large number of artist studios. With so many unusual props lying around, it’s a unique and creative place to explore. While there, you can see artists at work or check out the cool exhibitions on display. 

Visit the Straat Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm (with a later opening time of noon on Mondays) 

Price: Students: €13.50 | Adults €19.50

Just a few minutes away on foot, the Straat Museum is one of the coolest art museums in Amsterdam. Inside, you’ll find a large collection of colourful and impressive art murals.

With a focus on street art, many of the pieces share an interesting story so make sure you read the descriptions to truly appreciate each piece. 

Head to the NXT Museum

Opening hours: It varies throughout the week

Price: Students: €16 – €18 | Adults €20.75 – €24.75

Next, make your way to the NXT Museum. In my opinion, this is one of the most interesting museums in Europe. As you wander around the immersive exhibitions, you’ll feel like you’re on another planet. 

NXT holds several exhibitions throughout the year, so check out their website to see what takes your fancy.

Travel back to Amsterdam city centre for dinner

Opening hours: It varies throughout the week

After checking out much of what North Amsterdam has to offer, head back into the city for dinner. After eating there on my birthday, I highly recommend Ashoka; a highly-rated Indian and Nepalese restaurant in the centre of Amsterdam.

With its luxurious decor and fine dining experience, it’s a must-try in the Dutch capital. Plus, the food is delicious. What more could you want?

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Day 6 in Amsterdam

On day six, consider venturing outside of the city for the final time. With so many great day trips from Amsterdam, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore more of the Netherlands. Depending on your interests, you may want to visit:

• Beaches in Amsterdam 
• Muiderslot Castle
• The tulip fields of Amsterdam 
• De Haar Castle and Utrecht
• Marken, Edam and Volendam 
• The vibrant city of Rotterdam

A quick note: I will be writing a post all about the best day trips from Amsterdam. Keep an eye out!

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Day 7 in Amsterdam

Stop for breakfast at Mortimer

Opening hours: 8am – 3pm

On your last day in Amsterdam, you’ll check out all the places you’ve not yet had time for. But first, fuel up with some breakfast.

You can opt to visit Mortimer, a well-loved brunch spot that serves up a variety of dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Alternatively, head back to your favourite breakfast spot in Amsterdam to enjoy it one last time. 

Visit Our Lord in the Attic Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (with a later opening time of 1pm on Sundays) 

Price: €16.50

A true hidden gem in Amsterdam, the Museum of Our Lord in the Attic isn’t particularly a well-known attraction. However, people who do visit have nothing but good things to say. 

The museum boasts a lot of history and religious insights into the city of Amsterdam. It also has a stunning interior that’s quite different to other churches you’ll see in Europe. 

Oude Kerk Amsterdam

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (except for Sundays when it opens at 1pm and closes at 5.30pm)

Price: €13.50

Just up the road is the Old Church. Despite the fact its interior isn’t quite as impressive as the previous location, it’s worth checking out as it’s the oldest building in the Dutch capital. 

As well as viewing the interior, the building houses several events and exhibitions throughout the year. Typically, they’re modern art exhibitions which is pretty cool considering the building is so old.

Wander around the Foam Museum

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (with a later closing time of 9pm on Thursday and Friday nights) 

Price: Students: €12.80 | Adults €16

Foam Museum is one of the must-see museums in Amsterdam if (like me) you love photography. Their thought-provoking exhibitions blow my mind. So much so that I typically spend hours there.

The museum offers free guided tours (in Dutch and English) on Saturdays. Consider checking it out if you want more in-depth information about the works on display.  

Grab some fries on the go

As you try and cram in as much as possible on your final day, grabbing lunch on the go is a good idea. One popular thing to try in Amsterdam is thick fries.

The fries (or chips as we call them in England) can be picked up from a number of hole-in-the-wall style stalls as you’re on the move. 

The Dutch way is to order them with a range of toppings and there are many to choose from. I personally love the special mix curry ketchup from Vleminckx de Sausmeester.

Conveniently, this popular chip shop is located just an 8-minute walk away from the Foam Museum and 17 minutes away from your next stop… 

Join a tour of the Heineken Experience

Opening hours: 10.30am – 7.30pm (with a later closing time of 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights) 

Price: €23+ depending on your ticket choice

If you enjoy a good beer, the Heineken Experience should be next on your agenda. Each ticket gives you access to the 90-minute long tour of the brewery.

The more expensive options also give you the chance to enjoy a few beers with incredible views of the city or jump on a canal cruise nearby.

Explore De Pijp

De Pijp is an area worth exploring during your time in the city. What typically brings travellers to the area is the Albert Cuypmarkt; an outdoor market selling all sorts of things such as fresh food, fashion and shoes.

However, the area is also worth visiting if you’re into street art as there is plenty of it around.

Dine in De Pijp

Before leaving De Pijp, stop for dinner at one of the top-rated restaurants in the area. This lively Amsterdam neighbourhood is known for its variety of cuisines so I’m confident that you’ll find something that takes your fancy. Some of the best options are:

• Restaurant Jaspers: One of the most highly-rated spots in the area
• Sjefietshé: The place to go if you’re craving South American dishes
• Limon: Known for its picture-perfect colourful food
• Miri Mary: The very best Indian restaurant in De Pijp

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FAQs about spending a week in Amsterdam

Is a week in Amsterdam too long?

It depends entirely on your interests and pace of travel. If there are lots of attractions, museums and activities you’d like to experience, a week might be ideal.

If you like to explore at a slower pace, you’ll have plenty of time to tick off your Amsterdam bucket list without rushing around like a headless chicken. 

However, if you prefer a jam-packed itinerary or just want to see the highlights, a week might be too long. If this is the case, you might want a few days in the Dutch capital instead.

How many days is ideal in Amsterdam?

If you’re like me and love to see as much as possible in a short space of time, I’d say 3-5 days is enough. However, if you want to explore more of the country, 1-2 weeks is ideal for a trip around the Netherlands. 

How much would a week in Amsterdam cost?

Again, this very much depends on you, your style of travel and what time of year you visit. However, I highly recommend budgeting at least €40 – €60 per day if you’re on a budget.

Mid-range travellers can get away with about €100 per day and you should plan to spend €150 – €200 if you know you’re likely to splurge.

Please note: These suggestions do not include the cost of accommodation.

What is the cheapest month to visit Amsterdam?

Winter months are typically the cheapest. In the past, I’ve found accommodation prices much more expensive during spring and summer.

If you want to visit Amsterdam without spending a small fortune, you’ll have to sacrifice good weather. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy and the city is just as beautiful at any time of year.

Conclusion

With so many great things to do in Amsterdam, you can easily keep yourself busy for a week (or more). Whether you stay in the city or explore further afield, it’s the perfect length of time to truly appreciate the Netherlands.

From impressive museums to delightful cocktail bars, you’ll see a lot with this seven-day itinerary. However, there’s plenty still left to see. If you’re anything like me, you’ll keep going back for more.

Has this guide inspired you to spend more than a few days in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam? I’d love to hear your plans!

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