Perfect 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary

Start your Amsterdam adventure with breakfast at this authentic brown café in the Jordaan. The locals have been coming here for decades, and the apple cake is legendary. I always order the uitsmijter (Dutch open sandwich) - it's the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

This hidden courtyard is one of Amsterdam's best-kept secrets, and it's completely free. The Begijnhof dates back to the 14th century and houses the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam. The peaceful garden in the centre feels worlds away from the bustling streets outside. Don't miss the hidden Catholic church - it's tucked away so discretely you might walk right past it.

The Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) are a shopper's paradise, but even if you're not buying, they're wonderful for people-watching. These tiny streets connecting the major canals are packed with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cosy cafés. I love popping into Frozen Fountain for design inspiration and the Cheese Museum for samples.

This grand café on Lange Niezel has been serving locals since 1900. The soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and worn wooden floors create an atmosphere that's uniquely Amsterdam. Try the bitterballen (a local favourite) or the stamppot if you're feeling adventurous.

The UNESCO-listed Canal Ring is where Amsterdam's Golden Age comes to life. Walk along Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht, looking up at the elaborate gable tops. Each tells a story - some indicate the owner's profession, others their wealth or religious beliefs. The canal house at Herengracht 380 has one of the most photographed facades in the city.

Skip the crowds at the bigger museums and visit this perfectly preserved 17th-century canal house. You'll see how Amsterdam's wealthy merchants lived during the city's golden age. The period rooms are stunning, and the formal garden is a lovely surprise. It's like stepping back in time.

End your first day with cocktails at this speakeasy-style bar. The bartenders are artists, creating innovative drinks using Dutch gin and local ingredients. The atmosphere is intimate and sophisticated - perfect for reflecting on your first day in the city.

No Amsterdam experience is complete without cycling. Rent a bike from MacBike or Black Bikes and head to Vondelpark. Early morning is perfect - you'll see locals walking their dogs, joggers, and families feeding the ducks. The park's pavilion serves excellent coffee if you need a caffeine fix.

Amsterdam's modern art museum is brilliantly curated and less overwhelming than many major galleries. The collection spans from Van Gogh's contemporaries to cutting-edge contemporary works. The building itself, with its distinctive white "bathtub" extension, is architectural art.

Cycle to De Pijp, Amsterdam's most diverse neighbourhood. Have lunch at Bakers & Roasters for their famous brunch menu, or try the traditional Dutch herring from one of the street stands near Albert Cuyp Market. The market itself is perfect for people-watching and finding unique souvenirs.

Choose your own adventure here. The Heineken Experience is touristy but fun, especially if you're interested in the history of Dutch brewing. For a more authentic experience, cycle to Brewery 't IJ, located in a former bathhouse next to a windmill. Their craft beers are exceptional, and the setting is uniquely Amsterdam.

Amsterdam has dozens of hidden hofjes (courtyard gardens) that most tourists never discover. St. Andrieshof, Karthuizerhof, and Claes Claeszhofje are all stunning and offer a glimpse into Amsterdam's charitable past. These almshouses were built for the elderly and poor, and many still serve their original purpose.

The Jordaan district comes alive in the evening. Book a table at Restaurant Greetje for modern Dutch cuisine, or try Café de Reiger for traditional local dishes. After dinner, pop into a brown café like Café 't Smalle for a nightcap and live music.

Start your final day at Amsterdam's most famous flea market. You'll find everything from vintage clothes to antique books, old records, and quirky collectibles. The quality varies, but the atmosphere is always lively. I once found a 1940s Amsterdam guidebook here that I still treasure.

This beautiful 17th-century synagogue is still lit entirely by candles, creating an incredibly moving atmosphere. The nearby Jewish Historical Museum provides important context about Amsterdam's Jewish community, which was such an integral part of the city's history.

This restaurant reimagines traditional Dutch cuisine for the modern palate. Try the stamppot with sustainable sausage or the modern take on erwtensoep (pea soup). It's a brilliant way to experience authentic Dutch flavours without feeling like you're eating tourist food.

Visit the world's only floating flower market, but don't expect it to be as magical as the postcards suggest - it's quite touristy now. However, the tulip bulbs make great gifts. Follow this with a canal cruise from a smaller company like Those Dam Boat Guys for a more intimate perspective on the city.

You could spend days here, but with limited time, focus on the highlights: Rembrandt's Night Watch, Vermeer's Milkmaid, and the stunning dollhouses. The building itself is architectural eye candy, and the gardens are perfect for a rest.

Take the free ferry across to Amsterdam Noord and head up to A'dam Lookout for panoramic views over the city. The swing "Over the Edge" is terrifying but exhilarating. Even if you skip the swing, the views at sunset are spectacular.

For your last meal, splurge on dinner at De Kas, a restaurant inside a greenhouse where they grow their own vegetables. It's a uniquely Amsterdam experience that combines the Dutch love of horticulture with excellent cuisine.