Plan the ultimate 3-day Amsterdam escape

With quiet canals, buzzing neighborhoods and a museum for nearly every interest, Amsterdam is the kind of city you can enjoy in just 3 days and still feel like you’ve really been somewhere. If you want to see more of the Netherlands, having your own car can open up new routes and quieter towns just outside the city.

Book a car with Europcar in Amsterdam to explore on your own terms

Day 1: History, canals, and artistic treasures of Amsterdam

Your first day in Amsterdam is all about getting to know the city’s heart. You’ll start with a walk through the historic center, move through some of the city’s most meaningful landmarks, and end with a nice evening by the canals.

Take a walk through Dam Square

Right in the middle of Dam Square, you’ll find the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk. These buildings have stood for centuries and still play a role in the city’s life. From there, take your time walking along the Damrak that leads to Centraal Station. You’ll go across the pace bikes passing by at top speed, one tramway after another and the boutiques you will visit later.

The Anne Frank House

The visit to the Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences you can have in Amsterdam. This is where Anne Frank, her family and four others hid for over two years during the Nazi occupation. While walking through the narrow rooms of the Secret Annex, you see the space as tight as it was during the war. Her original diary is on display along with excerpts that add real weight to the quiet atmosphere.

Anne Frank House museum’s tickets are sold exclusively online and must be booked in advance for a specific time slot. No tickets are sold at the door. Please take note that it’s not a place for photos or chatter. Visitors are encouraged to move through at their own pace, reading and listening with care.

After the visit, give yourself a moment outside. The Prinsengracht canal is just in front of the museum. It’s a calm place to sit or simply look out at the water.

Afternoon at Museumplein: Van Gogh Museum

Next, make your way to Museumplein, home to three of the city’s biggest museums: the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. If you only have time for one, the Van Gogh Museum is a safe choice. If you’re more drawn to classical art and Dutch masters, the Rijksmuseum is a masterpiece in itself. Booking ahead saves time here too.

Local bites and quiet canals near Jordaan

After a full day, take a walk along the Herengracht or Keizersgracht canals. These areas are peaceful at sunset when the city’s golden lights reflect off the water (it’s the right time to post your Instagram stories!). For dinner, we had the best experiences at Restaurant Daalder, Bussia and Pianeta Terra. All three are serving different kinds of cuisine and we will definitely go back any time.

Day 2: local flavors, neighborhoods, and hidden sites of Amsterdam

Now that you’ve had a taste of the city’s iconic sights, it’s time to visit the neighborhoods where locals spend their time. Day two means slower moments!

Pancakes and the Negen Straatjes streets

Known as the “Nine Streets”, this micro-neighborhood is tucked between the canals in the western part of the city. There you’ll find independent boutiques, vintage stores and specialty shops selling everything from handmade stationery to locally roasted coffee.

For breakfast or a mid-morning treat, try Pluk Amsterdam. They sell fresh juices and avocado toasts. If you’d rather taste a Dutch breakfast, trust us and go to Koffiehuis De Hoek.

The Heineken Experience

Just a short walk away is the Heineken Experience, a self-guided tour through the brand’s historic brewery. It’s interactive and a bit theatrical. People tend to consider it more fun than educational. If beer isn’t your thing, you can easily skip it and walk around the nearby Sarphatipark.

As the sun sets, the choice remains yours: head to Oud-West or return to De Pijp. You’ll find everything from modern bistros to laid-back breweries. We highly recommend The Seafood Bar for fresh fish or Brouwerij Troost for burgers and local brews.

Day 3: Culture, curiosity, and reflection in the Dutch capital

Amsterdam museums

Your first stop of the day should be the NEMO Science Museum, especially if you’re traveling with kids or simply enjoy hands-on exhibitions. The rooftop also offers one of the best panoramic views over Amsterdam.

You’re looking for something quieter? Head to the Rembrandt House Museum where the artist lived and worked. The restored rooms give a close-up look at his everyday life.

Lunch in the Plantage district

For lunch, the Plantage area is home to the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world and nearby cafés with garden seating. We went there, listed the two best spots and put them aside just for you:

• Café de Plantage: bright, spacious, and surrounded by the greenery of the Hortus Botanicus. You eat well and you smell the clean air of the garden surrounding you!
• Box Sociaal: casual brunch with Australian-inspired flavors, Box Sociaal is the expression of the multiculturalism of Amsterdam.

The Red Light District and Nieuwmarkt

From Nieuwmarkt, you’re close to the Red Light District, one of the city’s most talked-about areas. It’s part of Amsterdam’s history and best approached with an open mind and respectful attitude. Walking tours are available for those who want deeper context without sensationalism. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative, visit the Dutch Resistance Museum nearby which offers a moving look at life in the Netherlands during WWII.

Your last evening: take it slow

End your 3 days trip with a quiet walk, a final dinner, or a bit of last-minute shopping. If you’re near the 9 Streets or Jordaan, you’ll find boutiques open late and cafés where you can enjoy a last drink. You can close the day by going to Van Stapele Koekmakerij, a cookie store famous for selling just one kind of cookie (but it’s a delicious one!). You can also taste Metropolitan Deli’s handmade ice cream or go to Café ‘t Smalle, a scenic bar by the canal with local beers on tap. What a lovely way to end your Dutch tour!

Getting around Amsterdam: your options

Walkable districts and tram network

Trams, buses, and metro lines are well connected and run frequently. Most travelers use GVB trams. You can tap in and out with a contactless card or use a travel pass like the GVB day ticket or the Amsterdam City Card.

That said, many of Amsterdam’s best sights are within walking distance of one another. In fact, strolling along the canals or cutting through quiet residential streets is often the most enjoyable way to get around the city center.

When renting a car makes sense

While you don’t need a car to explore central Amsterdam, having one can be a real advantage if you’re planning trips just outside the city. Small towns, coastal areas, or attractions like the Zaanse Schans windmills, Keukenhof gardens (in spring) or the beaches near Zandvoort are all within an hour’s drive. And we promise, it’s really worth it!

With the flexibility of a rental, you’re free to create your own schedule and stop whenever something catches your eye. Europcar makes it easy to pick up a vehicle where and when you need it. You’ll find available cars in Amsterdam’s Schipol airport, and downtown in Marnixstraat.

Where to stay: finding the right hotel in Amsterdam

For first-time visitors

If it’s your first time in Amsterdam, you would rather stay at the Centrum (City Center). You’ll find many hotels near Dam Square, Centraal Station and Jordaan. You will be close to major sights, museums and transport links. It’s convenient if you’re working with a tight schedule or want to walk to most places. One of the most central hotels is the INK Hotel, but you can also go to Hotel Estheréa or The Hoxton.

For a more local feel

De Pijp and Oud-West neighborhoods are just outside the busiest areas but full of restaurants, small parks and quieter evenings. Great if you like to start and end the day somewhere calmer. You can sleep at Sir Albert Hotel, a former diamond factory, Hotel V Fizeaustraat or Conscious Hotel Westerpark if you are looking for an eco-focused place.

For art and culture lovers

And if museum-hopping is a top priority for you, staying near the Van Gogh Museum keeps you close to some of the city’s biggest draws with easy tram access. So if you want to sleep next to Van Gogh’s paintings, just go to Conservatorium Hotel or Max Brown Museum Square! These hotels are located in the Museumplein neighborhood.

Experience Amsterdam like a local

Beyond the museums and landmarks, much of Amsterdam’s charm lies in its everyday habits. Slowing down and observing how the city moves can turn simple moments into memorable parts of your trip. Just get along with the rhythm of the city!

Everyday customs that make a difference

Amsterdamers are known for being polite but reserved. A small nod or greeting goes a long way, especially in cafés or shops. People value personal space and the atmosphere tends to stay relaxed.

You’ll also notice that many streets prioritize cyclists. If you’re walking, keep an eye out for bikes and avoid standing in the cycle lanes. If you’re riding one, follow the flow and use hand signals. Locals are quick but courteous.

Helpful habits: tipping, greetings, and language tips

Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% for good service is common. By the way, many cafés open late in the morning and shops close around 6 p.m. Dining tends to start earlier than in southern Europe, often between 6:30 and 8 p.m.

When you’re at a shop, don’t worry! Almost everyone speaks English in Amsterdam but learning a few Dutch words like hallo (hello) or dank je wel (thank you) is always appreciated. It shows you really care about the place you visit and you try to fit in.

About payment means, most places accept cards but having a bit of cash can be useful at markets or smaller bakeries.

Before you go: final thoughts on your Amsterdam getaway

Three days in Amsterdam is just enough to see its many sides. Classic, creative, quiet and sometimes surprising, you will always remember this trip! You’ve walked the canals, browsed local shops, tried a few new flavors and maybe learned something new along the way. That’s what this city does best: it welcomes you in, without ever needing to show off.

No need to go to every point of interest and spend hours and hours in museums. Make up an itinerary to places that fit your personality. A 3 day trip is supposed to be the perfect balance with art, local food and street wandering. If you’ve taken the time to sit by the water with a coffee or wandered into a neighborhood you hadn’t heard of before… then you’ve done it right.

And if your plans go beyond the city limits, having a rental car gives you the freedom to keep exploring without a fixed schedule.