Experiencing Amsterdam in 48 hours: The ultimate weekend guide

If it’s your first time going to Amsterdam, it’s extremely easy to get caught up in the mesmerizing beauty of the city. From the canals and quirky architecture to the quaint atmosphere, the city will sweep you off your feet.

With so much to see and so little time, we’ve rounded up the must-do’s of Amsterdam, allowing you to cross off the amazing sights, get cultured, and unwind like a local in the span of just a weekend.

Visit the museums

Amsterdam is home to some amazing art museums, from European masterpieces to rare, contemporary street art. Also, the most popular spots in the city are conveniently located within a quick stroll away from one another, so that’s a plus!

Rejksmuseum

The largest and arguably most well-known museum in the city, you can spend hours on end in here. Have yourself enthralled in the beauty of some historical pieces from the likes of Van Gogh to Rembrandt.

Stedelijk Museum

If you’re a fan of contemporary art, move Stedelijk to the top of your list. There you’ll find some great pieces from Andy Warhol, Jean Basquiat, and Jackson Pollock, just to name a few.

MOCO Museum

Fancy modern and street art? MOCO museum is currently holding an extremely “insta-worthy” exhibition showcasing some rare pieces from Banksy, Kaws, and Daniel Arsham.

Take a canal tour

It might be cliché, but it’s definitely worth it. Take a one-hour boat cruise around the canals of Amsterdam and you’ll be able to see first-hand the amazing architecture that surrounds the city, such as quirky “boat houses” and other photo-worthy landmarks.

Explore the shopping streets 

It’s not a vacay unless some shopping is involved. Here are the spots we recommend:

De Wallen

De Wallen is a district jam-packed with shopping streets where you’ll find commercial brands like UNIQLO, ZARA, and the city’s biggest department store, De Bijenkorf.

Grachtengordel

If you know, you know. Hit Grachtengordel for some of the city’s coolest boutiques. Here you’ll find some of Amsterdam’s best local brands and hidden gems.

P.C. Hoofstraat

Think LA’s Rodeo Drive, but Amsterdam. Here you’ll find the biggest name brands in the world and the perfect place to be the best “boujee” version of yourself.

Grab a drink (or two)

The cocktail scene here is spectacular, and you’ll find yourself ordering multiple drinks throughout the night.

We recommend the Pulitzer’s Bar, located conveniently at The Pulitzer Amsterdam Hotel in the busy streets of Hartenstraat. There you’ll find an amazingly curated menu of drinks that is unique to the city.

Honourable Mention – Heineken Experience 

Though we wouldn’t consider this a priority per se, if you have extra time and/or so happen to be a die-hard Heineken fan, you’ll want to take this tour. See how your favourite beer is made, learn about the process, all the while sipping on your complimentary drinks!

Here’s a tip: To ensure you’re able to see everything you want with ease, travel company Booking.com is offering travellers access to the best things to do during their stay (including the things we’ve mentioned above) and the ability to book in advance hassle-free using the Booking Attractions platform. Explore what they have to offer for Amsterdam here!