Can You Visit Amsterdam in a Day?
Amsterdam is the capital city of Netherlands which is famous for its beauty of canals, historic architecture, and rich culture. If you’re on a struggle for time and considering it possible to see this magnificent city in one day only, then yes, it is: yes, you can! Although, it may take days to explore Amsterdam in all its glory, with a little planning and prioritizing, you will still have a great time. Here is a guide on how you should spend a day’s visit to Amsterdam.
1. Plan Ahead
It’s important to have a plan for itinerary when you have just one day. Write a list of attractions not to be missed and prioritize them depending on the things you like. With a plan, you don’t waste time and make sure that you don’t miss any important sights.
2. Start Early
In order to make the most out of your day, it is good to start early. Most of the attractions and museums in Amsterdam open at 9.00 am hence try as much as possible to arrive as the doors open. Early start also gives you the chance to avoid the crowds hence can enjoy more.
3. Explore the Canal Belt
UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the most recognizable image of Amsterdam is Canal Belt. Start walking around the beautiful canals, and enjoy the beautiful scenery around. Consider going for a canal boat tour so as to get an insightful view of the city.
4. Visit the Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is one of the attractions that you cannot afford not to see when you visit Amsterdam. It becomes a strong and emotive experience as you will learn about the life of Anne Frank and the Holocaust history. During a busy period, you might find yourself having to queue for queues that are long, therefore with that in mind it is highly recommendable that you book your tickets online prior to avoid the long queues.
5. Discover the Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum is an art piece not to miss if you are an art enthusiast. It contains the largest number of paintings and drawings by Vincent van Gogh in the world. Spend a little time to admire works of this famous artist and find out about his life.
6. Enjoy the Food
When in Amsterdam, do not forget to eat some mouth-watering local dishes. Such Dutch specialties as stroopwafels, herring and bitterballen. You can also take a trip to the famous Albert Cuyp Market to find a lot of street food stalls.
7. Take a Bike Ride
Amsterdam is known for its cycling culture, therefore renting a bike is a good opportunity to see the city in the same way that the locals do. Bicycles are also available for hire at a reasonable price in the entire city. Cycle through the bike-friendly trails and find secret treasures at your own time.
8. Visit the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums of arts in the world; it contains an enormous amount of Dutch art and artifacts of history. Take some time to marvel at the genius creations such as “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt and “The Milkmaid” created by Vermeer.
9. Experience Dam Square
Dam Square is the city’s centre in Amsterdam and an excellent place to get the atmosphere of the capital. Enjoy the Royal Palace and the National Monument, enjoy the busy atmosphere. It is also strategically located close to other popular tourist sites.
10. End the Day at Vondelpark
When your day is over, go to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest city park. Take a leisurely walk through the park or find a place to sit back and look at the beautiful views. It’s where you can relax before you leave.
Although, a one-day visit to Amsterdam can only be just the tip of the iceberg, it is still possible to get the gist of this fantastic city. Thoughtful planning and attention are sufficient to make a vivid experience and leaving a wish to come back for a deeper visit.
Table of Contents
