- Updated: 15.05.2024
A practical guide on how to spend one full day in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a captivating city known for its picturesque canals, rich history, vibrant culture, and progressive attitude. The UNESCO-listed canal ring is iconic, with elegant canal houses, bridges, and tree-lined streets. Exploring this area by boat or on foot offers a glimpse into Amsterdam's charm.
Another iconic thing is biking life in Amsterdam. The city is designed to be bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and rentals available everywhere. It's a fantastic way to explore the city like a local. The city is filled with cozy cafés and restaurants offering everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international fare. The café culture is vibrant, and sitting by a canal with a coffee or Dutch pancake is a must. Below you will see my list of the best places to eat.
A day trip from Paris to Amsterdam can be fantastic! There's so much to see and do, even in a short time. Amsterdam has an excellent public transportation system, especially trams, making it easy to get around. However, it's a good idea to plan your route in advance to optimize your timi, here is an approximate route you can consider, depending on how much time you have in the city.
You may also be interested in other popular day trips from Paris.
Early Morning
• Departure from Paris: Start early to make the most of your day. Consider taking a high-speed train like Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Amsterdam Centraal Station.
The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours. Purchase your tickets online through the official website Eurostar.
Morning:
• Arrival in Amsterdam - once you arrive, grab breakfast at a local cafe or bakery. Try some traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels or poffertjes.
• Explore the Canals - wander around the beautiful canals of Amsterdam. Consider taking a canal cruise to see the city from a unique perspective.
• Visit Anne Frank House (if interested): This historical site has limited tickets, so book in advance if you plan to visit, buy online ticket on official website.
Canals In Amsterdam
Canals In Amsterdam
Afternoon
• Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum: Depending on your interests, visit one of these world-renowned museums. Both offer incredible collections of art and history.
Tickets on official websites: Rijksmuseum tickets and Van Gogh Museum tickets.
Lunch
• Stop for a typical Dutch lunch at a local restaurant. Try some Dutch specialties like bitterballen or a broodje haring (herring sandwich). Check the restaurants list below.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening:
• Explore the City - spend some time walking through neighborhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp, known for their charm, boutiques, and cafes.
• Shopping - visit some local shops for souvenirs or unique Dutch items.
Return to Paris:
• Head back to Amsterdam Centraal Station for your return journey to Paris. Aim to leave Amsterdam in the late afternoon or early evening to ensure you have enough time to catch your train back.
Remember a day trip to Amsterdam from Paris will be a whirlwind, so make sure to focus on the attractions that interest you the most!
If you decide to stay in Amsterdam, below I have made a list of the best hotels in the city.
Bike Culture in Amsterdam
→ Useful Article: 7 Days in Paris, The Perfect Itinerary
Best Restaurants in central Amsterdam
• De Silveren Spiegel - this restaurant, established in 1614, offers a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine in a historic setting. It's known for its elegant ambiance and delicious food.
Kattengat 4-6, Google Map
• Hoppe - dating back to 1670, this traditional Dutch café exudes history and charm. It's a great spot for a drink and some classic Dutch snacks.
Spui 18-20, Google Map
• Café De Dokter - founded in 1798, this cozy brown café retains its original interior, making it feel like a trip back in time. It's known for its extensive collection of jenevers (Dutch gin). This place has been run by a seventh generation owner since 1789. Must visit!
Rozenboomsteeg 4, Google Map
• De Drie Fleschjes - established in 1650, this tasting room offers a wide selection of jenevers and liqueurs. The interior maintains an old-world charm, and it's a great place to try traditional Dutch spirits.
Gravenstraat 18, Google Map
• De Kas - located in a greenhouse, this restaurant serves fresh, seasonal dishes made from produce grown in their own gardens.
Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, Google Map
• The Seafood Bar - perfect for seafood lovers, this place serves a variety of fresh fish and seafood dishes.
Spui 15, Google Map
• RIJKS® - this Michelin-starred restaurant within the Rijksmuseum offers contemporary Dutch cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
Museumstraat 2, Google Map
Best Hotels in Amsterdam
Hotels on the Paris map
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