Itineraries for Your Trip to Amsterdam
2 Days in Amsterdam for First Timers
Since first traveling to Amsterdam at the young age of 18, I’ve returned to visit during every stage of my life. My reasons for visiting the capital of the Netherlands have ranged from romantic minibreaks and low-key local visits to wild celebrations for New Year’s Eve and King’s Day. My most recent trip to see the spring blooms of Keukenhof Gardens certainly reflects my mid-30s preference for less raucous pursuits.
So whether you’re feeling loved up, lively, or ready to relax, this 2-day Amsterdam itinerary for first timers showcases the best of the canal-clad city. During your two days in Amsterdam you should be able to squeeze in key highlights, from the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a bike tour.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam, as it’s when the blossoming trees enhance the already stunning city.
Start your 2-day stint in Amsterdam on a small-group walking tour that covers its Jewish heritage, including landmarks such as the Portuguese Synagogue and the Auschwitz Monument. Visiting the Anne Frank House (the former home of the world-famous World War II diarist) is a must, so head inside the museum when your tour ends here—be sure to book your tickets in advance on the website.
This city is world-famous for its waterways, so no visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a canal cruise on its Canal Ring (Grachtengordel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pass highlights such as Westerkerk, a 17th-century church where Rembrandt is buried, and the comically named Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug).
Even if you don’t consider yourself an art buff, the Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit, thanks to its beautifully curated selection of works, such as the immediately recognizable Sunflowers and Self-Portrait in Grey Felt Hat. If you’re keen to see masterpieces by more Dutch artists, take a small-group tour of the Rijksmuseum afterward—it’s within walking distance and has one of Europe’s largest collections of art.
With a number of historic villages, charming windmills, and the colorful Keukenhof Gardens nearby, it’s well worth spending a few hours outside the city. Take advantage of flexible half-day tours that offer a range of departure and return times, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Take a seat on a canal boat and relax after two days of sightseeing with a cruise along moonlit waterways. Evening cruises typically include drinks and snacks, but if you’d rather end with a more complete dining experience, opt for dinner cooked and served in the home of a local chef.