Is 2 Days in Amsterdam Enough?
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a lively and pleasant destination that should satisfy every type of visitor. Whether you are looking to delve into its history and culture, or amuse yourself in its charming canals and structures, or have a nightlife a la carte, Amsterdam is full of it. However, if you only have two days to spend in the city of Amsterdam, you might be thinking is it enough time to really enjoy and experience the whole of Amsterdam. In this post we will look into this subject and give you some helpful tips to to have the most out of your 2 day trip to Amsterdam.
Day 1: Exploring the Must-Sees
On your first day in Amsterdam, it is a good idea to orient yourself to the city’s main sights and monuments. Begin your morning at the famous Anne Frank House. This museum gives a moving insight into the story of Anne Frank and the horrors of the Holocaust. Be advised that tickets to Anne Frank House are often sold out weeks in advance so it is useful to purchase tickets online prior to arrival.
Upon leaving the Anne Frank House, meander through the fashionable Jordaan area of Amsterdam. Jordaan is characterised by its pretty canals, intimate cafes, fashionable boutiques. This district is a great place to get lost in the narrow streets and absorb the flavour of the city.
Following that, head off to the world-famous Van Gogh Museum. This museum owns the world’s biggest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings including his famous Sunflowers and his breathtaking work The Starry Night. Take your time to navigate through the a variety of galleries and get to know more about the life and work of this great artist.
unleash your first day in Amsterdam, roaming to icinic Dam Square. Here, you see grand architecture of the Royal Palace and enjoy beautiful gardens for the moment. Also from Dam Square, you can easily enter in the lively Red Light District, famous for its decadent ambience and nightlife.
Day 2: Immersing in Amsterdam’s Culture
On your second day take the chance to explore Amsterdam’s cultural side. Begin with a visit to the Rijksmuseum in the morning. The world famous museum is home to a vast array of Dutch treasures, including Rembrandt’s incredibly famous Night Watch. Guided tours may be requested for groups so that museum staff can provide insights into the artworks, including those that lend to audio guides to support your visit.
Following your visit of the Rijksmuseum, a few minutes walk will take you to the surrounding Vondelpark. This large park is an ideal spot to rest, have a picnic or just enjoy the natural scene. Even if you visit Amsterdam during the warmer months, you can enjoy free open-air concert at the park’s bandstand.
Next, head towards Amsterdam’s charming canal belt. Take a boat tour along the canals to appreciate the city’s buildings and to understand some of its history. These tours offer a good insight into how the town is and how it was laid out and all.
As the day is over enjoy the local food. Step into a typical Dutch restaurant and enjoy some tasty stroopwafels, bitterballen or haring. You can also go deep in the trendy neighborhood of De Pijp or Jordaan and find anything from a very wide variety of international food.
Final Thoughts
Although 2 days in Amsterdam may not be long enough to experience and visit everything, a city as beautiful as Amsterdam can still offer a great and memorable 2-day trip. By limiting your visit to Amsterdam to the must-sees, incorporating yourself in the everyday life of the locals and experiencing the characteristic atmosphere of the city, you can make the most of your short time in Amsterdam. Don’t forget to plan, define your interests, and don’t be afraid to stumble upon secrets at the same time. Amsterdam is bound to make a lasting impression, what ever length of stay you have!
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