Curator’s statement
Amsterdam is a city with endless options as far as things to do. With pretty canal views, historical sites, and loads of museums, it's a city you don't want to miss. Amsterdam is a fabulous transition into a longer European adventure. With direct flights from many U.S. cities, you could add it to the beginning or end of many itineraries. I chose to combine Amsterdam with a trip to Belgium, as you can take a very quick two-hour train between Amsterdam and Brussels.
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Where to stay
The Dylan Amsterdam
A stylish yet cozy Amsterdam hotel with beautifully appointed suites and a convenient location for exploring the city.
Canal House - part of A Curious Group of Hotels
Stylish boutique property overlooking the Keizersgracht canal with chic rooms.
Fora Perks
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Activity credit.
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Daily breakfast.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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$X food / beverage
Pulitzer Amsterdam
Overlooking Prinsengracht canal and spanning 25 17th-century homes, this is a hotel lover’s hotel.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
Housed in what was once a public library, this luxury lifestyle hotel is a stylish choice in Amsterdam.
Fora Perks
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Hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
Regal grande dame overlooking the Amstel River, with a dramatic colonnaded lobby, riverfront restaurant and plum location in the heart of the city.
Fora Perks
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Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability
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Full Breakfast daily for two per bedroom, served in restaurant
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Boat tour through the canals of Amsterdam on Tuesdays, Saturdays, Sundays.
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Day 1
Day 1:
Land in Amsterdam and make your way to your choice of accommodation for a three-night stay. After checking in, head out on an Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise with Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese. This tour departs at various times throughout the day and is a great way to get to know Amsterdam and start your adventure. Grab lunch at Blue Amsterdam, a cute cafe and bar, with some excellent panoramic city views. After lunch, check out the Red Light Secrets Museum. This is a fun and very interesting museum that showcases the history of Amsterdam's sex-work industry. Alternatively, or if you are traveling with children, I would recommend Body Worlds. Even if you are not typically a museum person, this is a really fabulous anatomy exhibit, educational, and absolutely worth checking out! Pick up a sweet treat at Stroopwafel #1. Head to Restaurant The White Room by Jacob Jan Boerma for beautiful decor and globally inspired tasting menus.
Day 2
Day 2:
Start your morning with a delicious coffee and Greek pie at Kafenion Amsterdam. Afterward, make your way to the Anne Frank House. You will want to purchase tickets online in advance, but this is a must-do when in Amsterdam to learn about the life of Anne Frank & her family during WWII. Afterward, make your way to Box Sociaal Jordaan for a yummy brunch or lunch. For the afternoon, I would recommend your choice of Zaanse Schans Windmills, Clogs, and Dutch Cheese Small-Group Tour or a bike tour of Amsterdam's highlights and hidden gems. For dinner, I would recommend MOS for a beautiful waterfront meal with a tasting menu.
Day 3
Day 3:
Start your day with breakfast at Omelegg Centrum and fill up on a delicious omelet. Make your way to the Van Gogh Museum with Reserved Entry and take a semi-private guided tour. This is another Amsterdam must-see! Alternatively, you may choose to check out the Amsterdam Tulip Museum. For lunch, head to The Pantry for some traditional Dutch cuisine. After lunch, head to Kalverstraat to do some shopping and explore at your leisure. To finish off your Amsterdam itinerary, I would recommend a late afternoon or evening Amsterdam Small-Group Food Tour through the canals and Jordaan. You'll indulge in some Dutch drinks and yummy cuisine with local experts at some of the hidden gems.
Day 4
Day 4:
Check out and make your way to your next European destination or head home if you are at the end of your trip.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Scenic Summer Getaway to Banff
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Katie Anderson
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam