Top 8 things to do in Amsterdam in 2 days. The Ultimate Backpacker’s Itinerary+ A Local Secret

Introduction and TL:DR

Amsterdam is a vibrant and bustling city, known for its canals, iconic architecture, and diverse culture. It is home to over 850,000 people and is a great city for tourists. This guide will cover the best things to do in Amsterdam in two days. From the historic sites and museums, to the lively nightlife and unique shopping opportunities, this guide will provide you with the perfect introduction to Amsterdam. You’ll learn about the city’s famous attractions, great places to eat and drink, and find out what makes Amsterdam so special. So, let’s get started and explore the best of Amsterdam in two days!

City Highlights

1. Rijksmuseum: Amsterdam’s renowned national museum is a must-see. It houses a vast collection of Dutch masterpieces, from Rembrandt to Vermeer.

2. Anne Frank House: This museum is a moving tribute to a young girl’s courage in the face of adversity. It is an important reminder of the Holocaust.

3. Van Gogh Museum: This museum showcases the works of the celebrated Dutch artist, Vincent van Gogh. It’s a great way to admire his vibrant and evocative paintings.

4. Dam Square: This bustling square is a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Amsterdam. It’s also a great spot to grab a bite to eat.

5. Vondelpark: This sprawling park is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Amsterdam. It’s also a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters.

The city has a rich history, having been an important trading centre since the Middle Ages. It has been a major port for centuries, and was a centre of the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century.

The best time to visit Amsterdam is in the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant and the city is full of life.

Amsterdam is known for its unique canals, which are lined with beautiful old buildings. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many museums, theatres, and galleries. There are also many parks and green spaces, making it a great place to explore.

How to Spend 2 Days in Amsterdam:
The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

Spending two days in Amsterdam is a great way to explore the city and take in the sights. To make the most of your time, you should plan ahead and purchase fast track tickets for Amsterdam tourist attractions. This will help you avoid the long lines and give you more time to enjoy the city.

There are many places to visit in Amsterdam, so it’s important to plan your itinerary in advance. Consider the attractions you’d like to visit and purchase fast track tickets to save time. Popular attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum.

When it comes to accommodation, Amsterdam has plenty of options to suit all budgets. Consider a hotel in the city center, as this will give you easy access to the attractions and provide a comfortable stay. Alternatively, you can stay in an Airbnb or hostel.

With fast track tickets and a well-planned itinerary, you can make the most of your two days in Amsterdam. Enjoy the city’s attractions, explore the vibrant streets, and create memories to last a lifetime.

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 1
The Historic Centre

Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam and is worth visiting for its vast collection of Dutch art and history. It is best to visit the museum early in the morning or in the evening to avoid long queues. The museum houses works from renowned Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals, as well as an extensive collection of artifacts from the Dutch Golden Age. It is also home to the world-famous Night Watch painting by Rembrandt.

Anne Frank House is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of World War II and the Holocaust. It is best to visit the museum early in the morning to avoid long queues. The museum is housed in the former hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during the war. Inside the museum, visitors can learn about the history of Anne Frank and her family, as well as the history of the Holocaust.

Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the work of Vincent van Gogh. It is best to visit the museum early in the morning to avoid long queues. The museum houses the largest collection of van Gogh’s work in the world, including some of his most famous works such as The Starry Night and Sunflowers. It also features works from other renowned Dutch painters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Red Light District is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam. It is best to visit the area in the evening to get the full experience. The area is known for its legal prostitution, as well as its many bars and nightclubs. It is also home to many of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks such as the Oude Kerk and the Begijnhof. For those looking for a unique experience, the Red Light District is a must-see when visiting Amsterdam.

These are just a few of the many attractions in Amsterdam, and in two days, visitors can easily experience the best of what the city has to offer. From the Rijksmuseum to the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum to the Red Light District, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

Amsterdam Itinerary: Day 2
Things to See and Do

Dam Square is one of the most iconic places in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the city, it is a great place to start exploring the city. The square is surrounded by some of the most important and beautiful buildings in the city, such as the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk. It is also home to many restaurants and shops, so it’s a great place to spend some time. The best time to visit Dam Square is early morning or late afternoon, when it is less crowded. It is worth visiting to admire the beauty of the architecture and to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.

Royal Palace of Amsterdam is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam. Located in the center of the city, the palace is open to the public from April to October. It is a great place to explore the history and culture of the city. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Inside the palace, visitors can admire the grandeur of the interior, the beautiful paintings, and the ornate furniture. It is also worth visiting to take a look at the magnificent gardens.

Vondelpark is one of the most visited parks in Amsterdam. Located in the city center, this large park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The best time to visit Vondelpark is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Inside the park, visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, the beautiful flowers, and the peaceful atmosphere. It is also worth visiting to take a look at the many sculptures and monuments located in the park.

Heineken Experience is one of the most popular attractions in Amsterdam. Located in the old Heineken brewery, the experience takes visitors on a journey through the history of the brand. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Inside the experience, visitors can learn about the brewing process, taste different beers, and explore the interactive exhibits. It is also worth visiting to take a look at the old equipment and get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Hostel Van Gogh is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam, located in the heart of the city. It offers a great location, with easy access to the city’s attractions. The hostel offers a variety of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the hostel is perfect for budget travelers. The hostel is also close to many of the city’s top attractions, such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House.

Flying Pig Downtown is another great hostel in Amsterdam. It is located in the city center, making it easy to access the city’s many attractions. The hostel offers a range of amenities, including a bar, a cafe, and a fully-equipped kitchen. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the hostel is perfect for budget travelers. The hostel is also close to many of Amsterdam’s top attractions, including the Rijksmuseum and the Dam Square.

Hostel Cosmos is a great hostel located in the heart of Amsterdam. It offers a great location, with easy access to the city’s attractions. The hostel offers a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the hostel is perfect for budget travelers. The hostel is also close to many of Amsterdam’s top attractions, such as the Rembrandt House Museum and the Heineken Experience.

Generator Amsterdam Generator Amsterdam is a design hotel-hostel located in the heart of the city, overlooking Oosterpark. Guests can choose from shared dorms to private rooms, offering something for everyone. Housed in the former zoological university, Generator Amsterdam has transformed the original space creating an auditorium bar, library and basement nightclub.

Pack more into your 2 days in Amsterdam

Try Hostelworld Linkups!

Don’t miss out on these special events

Ask at your hostel’s front desk for the week’s itinerary and sign up to mix, mingle, and make unforgettable memories.

Hostels around the city frequently plan activities ranging from walking tours that delve deep into Amsterdam’s rich history to spirited pub crawls that introduce you to the city’s lively nightlife.

Whether you’re a solo traveller looking to make new friends or a group eager for a collective adventure, these linkups add a dynamic and enriching layer to your experience.

5 Insider Tips for Visitors Traveling to Amsterdam from
Other Solo Travelers and Backpackers

1. Amsterdam is a great city to explore for solo travelers or backpackers, with lots of things to do in Amsterdam in two days. The best way to get around is to use the city’s excellent public transport system, which is clean, efficient and affordable.

2. To find a well-priced meal, head to one of the city’s many food markets. Here, you can find a variety of tasty treats, from fresh fish and chips to Dutch pancakes.

3. Amsterdam is known for its vibrant nightlife, so make sure to check out the many bars, clubs and live music venues.

4. If you’re looking for a cheap place to stay, consider staying in one of the city’s hostels or Airbnb apartments.

5. Make sure to take advantage of the many free things to do in Amsterdam in two days, such as exploring the city’s canals and parks, visiting the many museums and galleries, or taking a free walking tour.

FAQs

Q: What are the best ways to get around Amsterdam?

A: Amsterdam is a very walkable city, but the public transport system is also very reliable and efficient. Bikes are also a popular way to get around the city, and you can rent them from many different places.

Q: What are some good and cheap places to eat in Amsterdam?

A: There are plenty of great places to eat in Amsterdam that won’t break the bank. Some of the best are food markets like the Albert Cuypmarkt and the Noordermarkt, which offer a wide variety of food at reasonable prices. You can also find cheap eats in the city’s many cafes and restaurants.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Amsterdam is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer. There is something for everyone, from the rich culture to the nightlife, to the beautiful architecture and canals.

The city is well-connected, making it easy to get around. The public transport system is reliable and efficient, and there are plenty of bike rental companies.

The food scene is also excellent, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. Visitors should make sure to try some of the local specialties.

Overall, Amsterdam is a great destination for a city break. It is a safe and welcoming city with plenty of attractions and activities. Visitors should make sure to explore the canals, visit the museums, and enjoy the nightlife. With its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere, Amsterdam is sure to provide a memorable experience.