Amsterdam: Only 72 Hours & So Many Canals to Cross!

Rijksmuseum

It started as a way to escape the pouring rain, but I ended up completely swept away—by brushstrokes, statues, and centuries of genius. I spent hours getting lost in the depth of Rembrandt’s shadows and the softness of Vermeer’s light. Just when my eyes couldn’t take in any more beauty, I found myself mimicking the poses of quirky marble statues for a little mid-museum entertainment. Even after a few hours, I felt like I’d barely scratched the surface.

Volendam gouda-making tour

Ever held a cheese wheel that’s half your size? I did. This tour wasn’t just a peek into the process of making gouda—it was a full-on cheese lover’s dream. I tasted over 15 types, from herb-infused to wildly aged varieties, but the chili pepper gouda stole my heart (and suitcase space). I definitely left with more mini wheels than I had room for—but no regrets.

Clog factory

Watching a chunk of wood become a clog before my eyes, with sawdust flying and antique machinery roaring, was like stepping into a time machine. I learned that clogs aren’t just charming souvenirs—they were the ergonomic footwear of their time, and yes, they really are the OG Crocs. I tried on a pair (surprisingly comfy), and stocked up on painted mini clog keychains—hands-down the most popular souvenir I brought back to California.

Zaanse Schans windmills

I always thought windmills were just picturesque, but here I learned they were once the lifeline of the Netherlands. I stood on the banks of peaceful canals, listening to how wind-powered mills helped drain entire lakes and create livable land, and finally understood what a dike actually is—it’s a massive embankment built to keep rising water at bay. One windmill I visited used to pump water and now makes nut butter. Only in the Netherlands! The countryside around Zaanse Schans felt like a fairytale—green grass, slow-moving water, and windmills turning gently in the breeze.

A’DAM Lookout tower

For a shot of adrenaline, I headed to the A’DAM Lookout—where I swung over the edge of a skyscraper, legs dangling over the city. The panoramic views were unreal. I even braved a VR rollercoaster ride before winding down with a cocktail at the rooftop bar, watching the sun start to dip over the city.

Anne Frank House

Before the trip, I reread The Diary of Anne Frank—and I’m so glad I did. Walking through the house where she hid brought every word back to life. The rooms were small, the staircases creaked, and every corner felt layered with the weight of history. It’s just one story from a horrific time, but it felt personal and deeply moving. A sobering, unforgettable experience.

Canal tour

We picked up sandwiches and drinks, boarded the boat, and just let the city glide by. For an hour, I sat back and watched as narrow buildings, flower-draped bridges, and zippy bikes passed in a blur. The guide pointed out little-known stories behind each neighborhood, while we cruised through the calm, glistening water. Pure Amsterdam magic.

Amsterdamse Bos

This massive park on the city’s edge was a peaceful surprise. I wandered through wildflower meadows and wooded paths, and suddenly, there they were: highland cows! Massive, fuzzy, and totally unbothered by humans. A few even walked right past us, calves in tow, like we were just part of their afternoon routine. It felt like stepping into a pastoral painting.

Woltje’s Backerij: Stroopwafels straight from heaven (Volendam)

The smell alone had me floating toward the door like a cartoon character. At Woltje’s, I watched golden stroopwafels being pressed right in front of me—gooey caramel center, crispy outer shell, still warm. I may have burned my mouth from zero patience, but honestly? Worth it.

Loren’s: Cookie croissants that changed my life

Imagine a buttery croissant wrapped around a chewy chocolate chip cookie. That’s Loren’s. It’s not a bakery, it’s a sweet-tooth fever dream. I ate one too fast, came back the next day for two more, and shamelessly considered a third. No regrets, just flaky, chocolatey joy.

De Lunch: Fast, fresh & full of flavor (Volendam Waterfront)

This spot came through fast—I blinked and our burgers were on the table, crispy fries and all. The view of the harbor, the sizzling local fish dishes, the no-nonsense service—it all just worked. Casual, delicious, and exactly what you want after walking along the docks.

The Pantry: Dutch comfort food in cozy mode

Tucked beside the water, The Pantry felt like a warm hug on a cloudy day. I cozied up with a plate of stamppot and veggie meatballs so tender I had to slow down and appreciate every bite. Think rustic, think homey, think the Dutch grandma I never had.

Restaurant Olijfje: A Mediterranean reset

Look, I love cheese and fries as much as the next person—but after three days of beige food, Olijfje was a welcome reset. I dove into grilled halloumi, hummus, and falafel bursting with flavor. Fresh, herby, and full of color—it was exactly the break my taste buds needed.