One day in Amsterdam
If you feel like touring the town with a knowledgeable guide, then have a look at this
guided Amsterdam tours website.
If you feel like doing it on your own then happily continue reading:
If you have only one day, start by taking a canal boat cruise to get a general overview of the city. Most tours last about 90 minutes and are an excellent way to see many of Amsterdam's prime sights comfortably. Most boats depart from in front of Central Station and you can order tickets online from our site.
After the cruise, take a walk along the historic canal ring to soak up the atmosphere and architecture of Amsterdam's Golden Age. See our recommended Historic Walking Tour for more suggestions.
Stop along the way to grab a bite at one of the many Dutch styled Brown Café's. For a taste of Holland, order the bitterballen as an appetizer - deep fried croquettes filled with beef and flour. Alternatively, grab some French fries with mayonnaise on the street or (if you're feeling brave) a herring and onion sandwich from one of the local street vendors.
Next, make your way to Museumplein to visit the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Most people know the impressionism of Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum has an impressive collection of old masters.
When you're all museumed out, relax in nearby Vondelpark or have a leisurely drink at Leidseplein.
If you have the energy, Leidseplein is also the start of the main shopping district which runs from Leidsestraat to the Kalverstraat shopping arcade.
When you get hungry for dinner, head to Chinatown near the Nieuwmarkt.
Eat at one of the restaurants in the area that have become a local favorite and a city specialty.
After dinner, wander through the Red Light District in the early evening to experience the electric atmosphere of one of Europe's most interesting neighborhoods.
See our recommended Red Light walk for some specific suggestions.
The area is generally safe. But after midnight the atmosphere can get tenser so be watchful and careful.
If you're still looking to party, head to one of the dance clubs around Rembrandtplein or to one of the live music venues near Leidseplein.