What To Do In Amsterdam For 3 Days | Complete Tour Guide
You will find numerous wonderful experiences within Amsterdam because it showcases picturesque canals alongside historic buildings while presenting a lively cultural setting. Finding excitement and letdowns in planning your 3-day city journey will happen often since you want to see all Amsterdam highlights in a limited time frame and follow your financial plan. The following guide contains all the information you need for What To Do In Amsterdam For 3 Days.
The Ultimate 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary (2025 Edition)
Day 1: Exploring the Historic City & Cultural Landmarks
Morning:
🌍 Start with a traditional Dutch breakfast – At a local café enjoy fresh stroopwafels and Dutch pancakes served with coffee as the main attractions. The Pancake Bakery and Omelegg are the recommended venues.
Recommended spots: The Pancake Bakery or Omelegg.
🏛️ Anne Frank House – A must-visit to learn about Anne Frank’s story and the impact of World War II.
✔️ Tip: Book tickets online at least a few weeks in advance to avoid long lines.
🚶 Explore the Jordaan District – Amsterdam visitors can stroll through its most beautiful area that features canals joined by boutique shops and delightful cafés.
Afternoon:
🏰 Dam Square & The Royal Palace –You can find the energetic ambiance and majestic palace architecture within the city center of Amsterdam.
🎨 Visit the Amsterdam Museum – A great place to learn about the city’s history, from its origins to the modern era.
🍽️ Lunch Stop: –You should experience traditional Dutch cuisine by eating a broodje haring from a food stand or Dutch fries from Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx.
Evening:
🔴 The Red Light District – Experience the famous historic neighborhood on foot until you understand its distinctive culture. Explore the Museum of Prostitution to gain deep insights regarding this subject.
✔️ Tip: Photography is strictly prohibited in this area.
🚢 Evening Canal Cruise – Take pleasure in exploring the city reflections while cruising down the canals via a guided boat tour. Select a dinner cruise boat for a romantic evening experience.
💰 Day 1 Budget Estimate:
- Breakfast: €5-10
- Anne Frank House Ticket: €16.50
- Royal Palace Entrance: €12.50
- Lunch: €10-15
- Canal Cruise: €15-30
- Dinner & Drinks: €20-40
➡️ Total: €80-120 (varies based on activities and dining choices)
Day 2: Art, Parks, and Local Markets
Morning:
🎭 Visit the Rijksmuseum – Visitors who love art should definitely see the masterpieces of Rembrandt and Vermeer at this museum.
✔️ Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and buy a Museumkaart if you plan to visit multiple museums.
🌿 Relax in Vondelpark – Have a coffee to go while spending a calm morning at Amsterdam’s celebrated park. You can hire a bicycle from the location if you need to move throughout the area swiftly.
Afternoon:
🛍️ Explore De Pijp & Albert Cuyp Market – This busy area features multiple local markets together with assorted eateries serving a range of foods. Small fluffy pancakes known as poffertjes offer an appealing taste for visitors to try at the restaurant along with traditional Dutch cheeses.
🖼️ Van Gogh Museum – Dive into the life and art of one of the most famous painters in history.
✔️ Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so book online in advance.
Evening:
🍽️ Dinner in Leidseplein – One of the best areas for food and nightlife. Every type of establishment can be found between cozy eateries and active drinking establishments.
🎶 Live Music or Comedy Show – Visit a jazz club like Bimhuis or watch a show at Boom Chicago.
💰 Day 2 Budget Estimate:
- Breakfast: €5-10
- Rijksmuseum Ticket: €22.50
- Bike Rental: €10-15
- Lunch at Albert Cuyp Market: €10-15
- Van Gogh Museum Ticket: €20
- Dinner: €25-40
- Live Show: €15-30
➡️ Total: €100-150
Day 3: Day Trips & Hidden Gems
Morning:
🌳 Visit NDSM Wharf – Visitors can utilize free ferry services from Amsterdam Centraal to reach this artistic neighborhood featuring wall murals along with peculiar eateries and renovated industrial structures.
🚴 Bike to Zaanse Schans (Optional Day Trip) – Experience typical Dutch attractions by using bike rentals to reach Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam.
Afternoon:
🏞️ Explore Amsterdam-Noord – A lesser-visited but super cool area. People should enjoy lunch at Pllek waterfront café which builds its structure from shipping containers.
🎢 A’DAM Lookout – The best panoramic Amsterdam look extends to visitors and the rooftop swing features an adventurous Over The Edge thrill.
Evening:
🥂 Final Night Drinks at a Rooftop Bar – To end your journey sky-high you should visit SkyLounge Amsterdam or W Hotel Rooftop which provides spectacular panoramas of the city.
💰 Day 3 Budget Estimate:
- Breakfast: €5-10
- Ferry to NDSM (Free)
- Bike Rental (if needed): €10
- Lunch at Pllek: €15-20
- A’DAM Lookout Ticket: €17.50
- Dinner & Drinks: €30-50
➡️ Total: €70-120
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Best Hotels to Stay in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has something for everyone, from stunning canal-side boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. To help you choose the best place to stay, I’ve broken it down into luxury, mid-range, and budget options—plus some unique stays if you’re looking for something different!
🏆 Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam (💰💰💰)
If you’re looking for 5-star comfort, canal views, and top-tier service, these hotels will give you an unforgettable stay:
1. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Herengracht Canal (Central)
💎 Why Stay Here?
- Stunning 17th-century canal houses turned into a luxury hotel
- Michelin-star restaurant & a world-class spa
- Perfect for: Couples & honeymooners
💰 Price: From €900+ per night
2. The Dylan Amsterdam ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Nine Streets (Trendy & Central)
💎 Why Stay Here?
- Stylish boutique hotel with elegant rooms
- Located in one of Amsterdam’s best shopping areas
- Michelin-star dining at Vinkeles restaurant
💰 Price: From €500+ per night
3. Pulitzer Amsterdam ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Along the Prinsengracht Canal
💎 Why Stay Here?
- Classic meets modern luxury—set in 25 restored canal houses
- Beautiful courtyard gardens & unique interior design
- Perfect for: Couples & art lovers
💰 Price: From €450+ per night
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Amsterdam (💰💰)
If you want comfort and style without breaking the bank, these mid-range hotels are great choices:
4. Ambassade Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Herengracht Canal
✔️ Why Stay Here?
- Classic Dutch charm with literary-themed décor
- Located in the heart of Amsterdam, near major attractions
- Perfect for: Culture lovers & bookworms
💰 Price: From €250-350 per night
5. The Hoxton Amsterdam ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Canal Belt (Central)
✔️ Why Stay Here?
- Trendy & stylish boutique hotel with cozy rooms
- Great bar & café with local vibes
- Perfect for: Young travelers & digital nomads
💰 Price: From €200-300 per night
6. Monet Garden Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Close to Waterlooplein
✔️ Why Stay Here?
- Spacious modern rooms with large windows & views
- Great for quiet stays while still near the center
- Perfect for: Families & couples
💰 Price: From €180-250 per night
💸 Best Budget Hotels in Amsterdam (💰)
If you’re looking for a good deal, these hotels offer great locations, clean rooms, and affordable rates:
7. The Social Hub Amsterdam (Formerly Student Hotel) ⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Amsterdam East
💰 Why Stay Here?
- Super social vibe with co-working spaces & events
- Affordable & modern rooms for solo travelers or groups
- Perfect for: Digital nomads & budget-conscious travelers
💰 Price: From €90-150 per night
8. ClinkNOORD Hostel ⭐⭐
📍 Location: Amsterdam Noord (5 min ferry from Central Station)
💰 Why Stay Here?
- Great budget-friendly hostel with private & dorm rooms
- Free ferry ride to Amsterdam Central Station
- Perfect for: Backpackers & budget travelers
💰 Price: From €40-100 per night
9. MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West ⭐⭐⭐
📍 Location: Close to Sloterdijk Station (10 mins to city center)
💰 Why Stay Here?
- Affordable, clean, and well-connected to public transport
- Great for families & groups who want budget comfort
- Perfect for: Budget travelers who want private rooms
💰 Price: From €70-120 per night
🌟 Unique & Alternative Stays in Amsterdam
Want to stay somewhere unconventional? Here are some cool & unique hotels in Amsterdam:
10. Hotel Not Hotel 🏠
📍 Location: De Baarsjes
✨ Why Stay Here?
- Each room is an art piece—some are hidden behind bookshelves!
- Perfect for: Quirky travelers & Instagram lovers
💰 Price: From €120 per night
11. Houseboat Hotel Amsterdam 🚤
📍 Location: Various locations on the canals
✨ Why Stay Here?
- Stay on a floating houseboat!
- Perfect for: Couples looking for a romantic, unique stay
💰 Price: From €180+ per night
💡 Final Tips for Choosing a Hotel in Amsterdam
✅ Best areas to stay:
- Jordaan & Nine Streets – Charming & central
- Canal Belt & Museum Quarter – Beautiful & scenic
- Amsterdam Noord – Cool & artsy with budget-friendly options
✅ Book early:
- Hotels in Amsterdam sell out fast, especially in spring & summer. Try to book at least 2-3 months in advance.
✅ Check if breakfast is included:
- Many hotels offer delicious Dutch breakfasts, but some charge extra.
✅ Consider public transport access:
- Amsterdam is very walkable, but if you stay further out, make sure you’re near a tram or metro.
🔹 Summary: Where Should You Stay?
- 💎 Luxury: Waldorf Astoria, The Dylan, Pulitzer
- 🏨 Mid-Range: Ambassade, The Hoxton, Monet Garden
- 💸 Budget: The Social Hub, ClinkNOORD, MEININGER
- 🚤 Unique Stay: Houseboat Hotel, Hotel Not Hotel
No matter your budget, Amsterdam has amazing places to stay! Would you like recommendations based on specific needs (e.g., family-friendly or romantic hotels)? 😊
Final Travel Tips & Budgeting Advice
How to Save Money in Amsterdam:
✅ Get an Amsterdam City Card – Includes public transport, free entry to museums, and discounts.
✅ Use Public Transport or Rent a Bike – A single tram ticket costs around €3.40, but a GVB day pass is cheaper for multiple trips.
✅ Eat at Local Markets & Cafes – Instead of fancy restaurants, enjoy affordable and delicious street food.
✅ Book Attractions in Advance – Many sites offer online discounts and skip-the-line perks.
Total Estimated Budget for 3 Days (Per Person):
💰 Budget Traveler: €200-250
💰 Mid-Range Traveler: €300-450
💰 Luxury Traveler: €600+
Final Thoughts
Visitors can never forget their time in Amsterdam because of its picturesque waterways and leading artworks and active nighttime scene. Amsterdam offers experiences suitable for historical buffs who love art and people who enjoy eating out.
The designed 3-day itinerary showcases Amsterdam’s main attractions at a reasonable financial cost. Enjoy your trip! 🚲✨
During your stay in Amsterdam are you interested in adding any new activities or seeking cost-saving options?
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