Few cities can match Amsterdam when it comes to culture, entertainment, cuisine and everything that attracts millions of tourists. This is true for not just Europe but worldwide. The capital city and the most populous city in the Netherlands, Amsterdam, receives millions of tourists in a good year. Known as Venice of the North because of its mesmerizing network of canals, it is truly a destination that is worth it. Even though it is a massive city, you can still make the best of it if all you have is just 48 hours – so let’s go!
48-Hour itinerary
Amsterdam is one of the most enticing places on earth in terms of sheer cultural significance. You can still experience the finest and the best of this ancient Dutch city with modern vibes in just 48 hours. As there is a lot for you to see, this two-day guide and itinerary allow you to focus on the most scintillating places as you soak in the culture.
Before you start, make sure that you have booked a room in one of the countless, cost-effective, and top-notch luxury hotels perched all over Amsterdam. For maximum ease, comfort and proximity, you can select the Conservatorium Hotel, Hilton Amsterdam, The Dylan, DoubleTree Amsterdam Centraal, or The Hoxton.
Once you have a place to stay, you will surely want to move about the city in the cheapest ways possible. So, go for the GVB card or the I Amsterdam City Card, which allows you to enjoy unlimited travel, a free tour of the canals, and even access to as much as over 70 museums and sites.
First Day
Morning: Enjoy a typical Dutch breakfast
From the convenience of your hotel, start the day with a typical Dutch breakfast. This usually includes biscuits, bread alongside toppings. Favorite toppings include chocolate spread, chocolate sprinkles, meat, cheese, jam, or peanut butter. Drinks will be juice, milk, coffee, or simply chilled water. You can also have oatmeal with yogurt as part of your traditional Dutch breakfast alongside some nuts or fruits.
Afternoon: Explore the Rijksmuseum
Entirely dedicated to history and arts, this is the most significant and national museum of the nation. Located at the Museum Square and not far from the iconic Van Gogh Museum, Concertgebouw, and the Stedelijk Museum – the Rijksmuseum is a true testament to Dutch ingenuity. In this museum, you have more than 8,000 history and art objects on display for you to feed your eyes with. These include legendary and timeless masterpieces from geniuses like Frans Hals, Rembrandt, and Johannes Vermeer. Some of the art pieces in this museum date back to the Middle Ages.
You can spend all of your afternoon time checking out the Rijksmuseum but if you feel like checking out a few other places, that will be a fantastic idea too. The Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum are not far so you can stroll there too. But because these museums are incredibly popular, you are advised to book on time.
Evening: Enjoy Dinner at a World-Class Restaurant
This is a city with numerous restaurants, so you will not find it challenging to locate one on time. Whichever restaurant you go for, try out the local Dutch cuisine. Some of the finest examples here include the following:
- De Kas
- Jansz
- Wilde Zwijnen
- Stork
- Sotto Pizza
- Moeders
- Cannibale Royale
You can also try out exotic meat dishes. From jerk-style roast chicken to the tastiest ribs in Europe, Amsterdam has it all for you – remember to down it all with cold Dutch beer! You can also try a quick mix of seafood in restaurants. There is also a trendy Dutch snack called Bitterballen – you need to eat this delicacy!
Evening – Relax in the Museum District
Once you have finished your dinner, you can head back to your hotel or go to Door47 for a fine blend of cocktail preparations. The music is enjoyable, and the environment will give you lots of memories. For those who want to be more adventurous, the red-light districts that have gained fame worldwide are also there at your beck and call.
Second Day
Morning: Spoil Yourself with Brunch
In Amsterdam or the Netherlands generally, the breakfast and lunch are practically the same. After a long and restful night, commence your day with a brunch. You can do this in your hotel or any of the cafes around. Umami avocado with poached eggs or simple coffee with bread and some cheese spread will be nice.
Afternoon: Go Round De Pijp Area
De Pijp is one of the most famous areas of attraction in Amsterdam. Home to the most prominent daily market on the continent (the Albert Cuyp Markt), De Pijp section has a lot in stock for you. Stall owners have been selling goods in the area since the early 20th century, so you feel like walking back in time as you tour the small stalls. If you are planning on getting an adorable Dutch souvenir, this is the place for you.
You can buy local stroopwafels, leather purses, and the most delicious Dutch cakes and cheese. Without a doubt, this is one of the most exciting and lively markets in all of Amsterdam. After doing your shopping, head to any of the restaurants and have some creamy coffee.
Evening: Try Out the Traditional Cocktails
Now you are on the last lap of your trip, and it is time for you to enjoy cocktails that have made tourists keep returning. This cocktail menu is so vintage that you have to taste it to appreciate. Bar Oldenhof is an excellent location for this. There is also always the option of outstanding wines.
Conclusion
So, all in all, you can see that you can cover the most memorable parts of this timeless city. Even though you cannot check out everything in Amsterdam in just two days, this itinerary will help you get the very best of the city in such a limited time.
