If you’ve read my previous posts, you’ll already know that I recently went back to Amsterdam for the first time in 8 years. As soon as I stepped foot back in the city, I realized the error of my ways. Why did I wait so long? Maybe Amsterdam is just one of those cities that you forget how much you love until you’re there again. Then it all comes rushing back. This trip was a brief one, only 2 days. As I realized, you can pack a lot into two days in Amsterdam! Here are some suggestions to make the most of your 48 hours in the Dutch capital.
DAY ONE:
Rent A Bike
By now you’ve all heard about what Amsterdam is famous for – riding bicycles! Quite rightly, it is one of the most bicycle friendly cities I’ve ever been to. The roads along the canals are so narrow, bikes are the quickest, most logical solution to getting around. Since you only have 2 days, you’ll want to get around quickly.
There are plenty of shops dotted throughout the city to rent one during your stay. Sadly, I don’t think the bike featured in the above photo is available to rent. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a scooter. How very cosmopolitan. I always marvel at the men in suits with their briefcases and women dressed up in skirts and heels all riding off to start their day.
Let’s Face It – All You Need is Food
Is there anything better than a food hall? The correct answer is “no” but if it’s “I’ve never been,” there’s no better time to change that. Amsterdam is home to Foodhallen – a veritable feast for the senses. Though this is a perfect spot anytime, it’s especially handy on a cool, rainy day. I love to linger over a good meal accompanied by good people. You can spend an entire afternoon here, trying food from all over the world. Since we all get thirsty – they have beer, wine and G&T bars!
Foodhallen is also connected to an area with little independent shops if you’d like to kill two birds and pick up some souvenirs. I’ll be honest, I was too busy with my mind on my food and my food on my mind to spare a thought for the lovely shops.
Get Your Drink On
Okay, are you too full to move now? Time to wash all that food down, I have 2 words for you – brewery tour. When you think of Dutch beer, you probably think of Heineken or Amstel – it’s all that and so much more. The Heineken Experience is a fun tour and tasting, and yes, Heineken is most definitely better right from the source.
If you prefer more of a local feel, you have your pick of craft breweries as well. For a bit of iconography and a tasting of award winning beer, try Brouwerij’t Ij which is located next to one of eight remaining windmills in Amsterdam. Definitely Instagram worthy.
And More Food, Glorious Food
By now, your Foodhallen coma will have worn off. Celebrate a day well traveled with a nice dinner. Personally, I like Nes, a hidden little back alleyway off Dam Square to go out for dinner. Maybe it’s partly a nostalgia thing, the very first dinner I had in Amsterdam was in a restaurant, Mappa, located on this street. This year, we went to a different restaurant on the very same street, Van Kerkwijk – both were divine. Ah, it really is a great little street.
After dinner, take a walk around – you’re in the Red Light District so there’s plenty to see whether you want to or not. Seriously though, it’s such a fun and lively neighborhood at night. I love to stroll around and take in the energy. If something suits your fancy, pop in – I didn’t mean that the way it sounds but hey, you do you.
DAY TWO:
Do Brunch
This is your last day in Amsterdam before you catch your plane, train or horse drawn carriage out of the city, best to start the day right. If you’re not already staying in the Jordaan, cycle over there pronto – brunch is waiting. Coming from a city that lives for weekend brunch, I appreciate this quality in others. The Jordaan is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Amsterdam and it is filled with charming little cafes perfect for spending a leisurely weekend morning.
On both my trips I found that, as a rule, the coffee in Amsterdam is so, so good. If the weather is nice, I love to grab a table outside. You can enjoy the weather, drink your coffee and it’s all the better to people watch. For local flavor, try a Dutch pancake at The Pancake Bakery. Have you ever had a Dutch pancake? All I’ll say is, bring your appetite.
Get Artsy
You can’t go to Amsterdam and not check out a museum. The Dutch are quite famous for their art, so you have a lot of options here. What’s your fancy – history, science, cheese, sex (it’s okay, this is a safe space) – well there are museums for all of that. If Post-impressionism is your thing, head over to the Van Gogh Museum to celebrate the Netherlands very own son. Am I the only one thinking of that Doctor Who scene right now? For art in general, the Rijks Museum is always a solid option.
If you only have time for one, I would definitely choose the Anne Frank House as a must-see, though I suggest buying tickets in advance. To walk through the very same space this incredible girl inhabited so many years ago is quite overwhelming. It’s an informative and, as you would expect, emotional experience.
Shop Til You Drop
Amsterdam is a shoppers dream. From the outdoor markets selling everything from flowers to antiques to the hip boutiques of The 9 Streets, there’s something for everyone. And, bonus, many of the shops feature merchandise by local designers. The oldest flea market in the Netherlands, Waterlooplein Markt is great for hunting down some Dutch treasures. The pedestrianized Kalverstraat is the place to go for national and international retail chains – think H&M, Zara, Mango.
My favorite has to be the shops on The 9 Streets, the quaint little streets surrounding the canals. These shops are perfect for scoping out the latest in European design. Some of the merchandise can be a bit pricey but hey, it’s fun to browse. Honestly, just walking these narrow, picturesque streets is a joy for me.
Snack Time?
All that culture and shopping can take a lot out of you. If you do find yourself shopping in The 9 Streets, and need a bit of a pick-me-up, head over to Ibericus Amsterdam and fuel up with a Jamon sandwich. You won’t regret it…unless you’re a vegetarian…or vegan…or gluten intolerant.
Take to the Water
It’s your last night in Amsterdam, what better way to spend it than a boat ride through the canals? If you haven’t done this, I highly recommend it. There’s nothing like seeing the city with all it’s quirky architecture while meandering down the water. There are so many choices, from dinner cruises to candlelight outings. Around sunset is an especially good time to take to the water because the canals are lit so beautifully at night. And, you can post a picture of yourself on a boat for all the world to see.
Red, White & Bubbles
Celebrate the end of a whirlwind 2 days with some bubbly and sharing plates at Bubbles & Wines. The atmosphere is relaxed, the lighting dim and the wine selection plentiful. If all that wind whipping through your hair from the boat ride worked up an appetite, there’s a wonderful selection of gourmet bites to choose from that pair perfectly with your wine and champagne.
Time to Bid Adieu
Remember, it doesn’t matter how short the trip is, it’s what you do with the time you have. And a short trip is a good reason to return again to check out all you missed. That’s what I keep telling myself anyway. Any great Amsterdam recommendations for my next trip? Leave a comment! Until next time – Cheers!
Adventures of a New Yorker traveling the world.
Adventures of a New Yorker traveling the world.
