Among the European capitals, there is Amsterdam! With it’s pitoresque canals, historical building, the food, coffee shops … and by that I mean the real coffee beans, ofcourse! The capital of The Netherlands is a city you must visit. This is our third time visiting the city and we explored everything by the dutch way: by bike. Even with just two days to explore, you can immerse yourself in the essence of this big city life. Here’s how to make the most out of your 48-stay in Amsterdam.

How to get around in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city renowned for its efficient and easy-to-use public transportation. Whether you're a local or a tourist, getting around the city is a breeze.

1. Bicycles: Bikes are the most popular mode of transportation in Amsterdam. The city is extremely bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and bike rental shops available throughout.

2. Trams: The system in Amsterdam is extensive and reliable, making it a great option for getting around the city. Remember to check the schedule and route before your journey.

3. Ferries: for a unique view of the city, consider taking a ferry across the IJ river. They're free, operate frequently, and connect the city center with the North district.

4. Walking: Amsterdam is a compact, walkable city. Exploring on foot is not only feasible, but it's also a fantastic way to discover hidden gems around every corner.

So whether you prefer biking, taking the tram, riding a ferry, or walking, Amsterdam offers numerous options to get you where you need to go.

Best Time to go to Amsterdam

Choosing the best time to visit Amsterdam depends largely on your personal preferences. If you're fond of warm, sunny weather, then the summer months of June through August are ideal for your visit. The city buzzes with life as locals and tourists alike enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

However, do keep in mind that summer is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be crowded, and prices for accommodation can be higher.

The spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) see fewer tourists and offer a milder climate. Spring in Amsterdam is particularly beautiful as tulips bloom all over the city, especially at the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens.

Winter in Amsterdam (December to February) is cold and dark, but the city takes on a magical atmosphere with Christmas lights and markets. Plus, if temperatures drop low enough, you might even get the chance to ice skate on the canals.

Regardless of when you decide to visit, Amsterdam is always charming and has something to offer for everyone.

Where to stay?

BOBW at Amsterdam Noord

Staying at BOB W in Amsterdam Noord enriches your visit with a taste of local life in a less touristy, yet incredibly vibrant part of the city. This neighborhood is one of the city’s most dynamic and evolving area in Amsterdam. It’s right across the IJ river where you can find modern cultural spaces, new businesses, great places to eat and many more! We stayed at the comfy studio and had everything we needed for a lovely stay. This hotel is commited to a greener, more responsible way of traveling by buying renewable energy, recycling furniture and more.

This self-service hotel has different studio’s and apartments with unique styles. As soon as you book, you’ll get a code to enter the hotel and your room. If you need anything from the hotel there is a 24/7 online support that will answer all your questions or problems. You can request an early check-in or even a late check-out. If you come by car to Amsterdam then you have a private parking spot for 16 euros a day.

The hotel provides bike rental, for 18 euros a day, so you be in no time in the city. It’s a 5 minute bike ride to the ferry (there are three ferry’s you can take plus they’re free!) and then you will have to take a three minute ferry to get to Amsterdam Central. From there on you can easily explore all the major atrractions by bike.

So if you want a hotel that puts sustainablity, comfort and local spots first than this is your sign to book at BOBW!

Day 1 itinerary

Discover Amsterdam Noord

Start your day by exploring the surroundings in Amsterdam Noord. Enjoy a breakfast at Kometen Brood & cafe where we ate the best croissant we’ve ever had. This local cafe is worth the visit for it’s interior with high ceilings and an open kitchen. You can choose for a breakfast or just order a take away coffee.

After breakfast, visit the NDSM Wharf a former shipyard turned into a cultural space with street art and unique architectural spaces. Then after this it’s time to take the ferry NSDM - Pontsteiger to get you across the river.

Discover Jordaan district

If you rent a bike from BOBW and take the fery across the IJ you’ll start with a visit to the Jordaan district. This neighborhood had a lot of pitoresque streets and canals. Stop by a local market at the Lindengracht and pay a visit at cafe R. de Rosa for a delicious cake and coffee. In this neighborhood you’ll find a lot of cool cafes and shops, so it’s worth the visit. Just wander around and if you get a chance to eat ‘harring’, a delicates fish from the Netherlands, order this to eat on the go!

The 9 streets (9 straatjes) and canals

After wandering the Jordaan disctrict, further ahead you’ll find the 9 streets or ‘de 9 straatjes’. These are nine streets where every street has a lot to offer! There are a lot of shops, boutiques, vintage finds and cafes. Here you’ll find also a lot of tourist, but it’s still worth the visit due to it’s cozy and vibrant vibes. Walk or bike the other canals like Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht or Reguliersgracht for beautiful view of the old canals and buildings.

After the nine streets it’s time for another coffee! This time you’ll need to pay a visit at Rum Baba, a coffee and matcha heaven! It’s a small coffee shop where I would recommend to take a coffee on the go if there’s no place to sit. I order a matcha latte and this was the most wonderful thing i’ve ever seen. I’ve got a seahorse drawing in my matcha. Look how cute this is! Definitly worth the visit!

Discover Vondelpark

Head to Vondelpark to continue your journey. We cycled through the park and took in the beautiful views this park has to offer. This city-park form 1865 is a spot for both tourists and locals. In the summer here are a lot of free concerts which we would recommend doing.

Day 2 itinerary

Damrak

Begin your day with a leisurely walk down Damrak, the main street that leads you from Amsterdam Central Station towards Dam Square. This area is bustling with energy and is a great spot to capture the essence of Amsterdam's architecture and canals.

Dam square

After strolling down Damrak, you'll find yourself in Dam Square, home to notable buildings like the Royal Palace and the National Monument. It's a significant historical site and a perfect place for some photos.

Red light district

A short walk from Dam Square is the world-famous Red Light District, known for its narrow streets, neon lights, and unique windows. While this area is known for its adult entertainment, it also offers historical buildings, quirky shops, and the Oude Kerk (Old Church), Amsterdam's oldest building. Remember to be respectful and mindful of local customs; photography of the windows is not allowed.

De Pijp

This part of the city has a hip and trendy vibe. Here you will find a lot of vintage stores and cool cafes. Head to De Pijp, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse dining options. This neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures, offering a variety of international cuisines. Albert Cuyp Market, the largest street market in Amsterdam, is also located here. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and maybe some street food snacks. De Pijp is known for its bohemian vibe, with plenty of boutique shops, cafes, and bars. It's a great place to experience the local lifestyle.

Rijksmuseum

Next, head to the Rijksmuseum, the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam. The museum houses a vast collection of works from the Dutch Golden Age, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and many others.

Where to eat in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a diverse culinary scene, with a wide array of eateries ranging from high-end restaurants to cozy cafes and trendy food markets.

Calabrar

This charming mexican eatery is specialized for traditional mexican food, made with love and authentic ingredients. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes calabrar a favorti among locals and visitors alike. Make sure you make a reservations beforehand, because it can get fully booked. You must try the Margeritha’s, they were insane good!

Pelusa

This cafe, restaurant is a haven for beer or wine lovers. Nestled in Amsterdam Noord near the river, has a lovely romantic setting. Having an exceptional selection of over 100 beers, this venue is a paradise for beer enthusiasts. Alongside its impressive beer list, the appetizers are simply delicious. When in the Netherlands, you must indulge in 'Bitterballen,' a local delicacy offering a taste experience like no other.

Kometen brood

This artisanal bakery prides itself on crafting sourdough bread, pastries and other baked goods. The aroma of freshly baked bread greets you as you enter. Make sure you try the freshly baked croissant, this was heaven.

Next

The restaurant’s minimalist design sets the stage of an unforgettable meal. Each dish is a fusion of flavors that surprises, paired with chosen wines. This is a must-try for foodies. The lively atmosphere, with a live dj-set, was an experience like no other.

Rum baba

The ultimate coffee bar doesn’t exist …. well I think I found the perfect coffee. This small bar lies in the center of Amsterdam. This unique spot offers everything from nespresso to the perfect matcha latte. If your lucky you can have a spot inside, but it has a very small interior.

No yusu

Nestled in Amsterdam Noord, this newly discovered gem beautifully merges the vibes of a football bar with the coziness of a coffee shop. Its unique interior invites you to enjoy the best of both worlds. They offer an intriguing selection of coffee, complemented by delicious treats like matcha cookies or cake. It's definitely a must-visit spot if you're staying with BobW, promising an experience that's as unique as it is delightful..

Point neuf
If you're on the hunt for the best 'patatje oorlog' in Amsterdam, make your way to Pont Neuf. This iconic dish, a must-try for anyone visiting the city, features fries like you've never tasted before. Served with a unique combination of toppings (peanut butter, unions, mayonaise) that create a flavor explosion in every bite.

Amsterdam is a city that has a lot to offer for everyone! 48 hours in Amsterdam is enough to get a taste of the city’s unique flavor. After this you will have the desire to return and even discover more what this beautiful city has to offer!