Amsterdam is a city brimming with charm, offering canals, vibrant streets, and a rich history that draws visitors from all over the world. With an overnight FlixBus, you can quickly travel from London to Amsterdam, ready to explore the city's unique blend of modern shops, historical sites, and traditional Dutch culture.
In just one day, you can wander the picturesque canals, taste Dutch delicacies, and see some of the most iconic spots in this walkable city. Whether you're visiting the famous flower market or grabbing a snack at a quirky vending restaurant, Amsterdam offers a day full of surprises. Let’s dive into the perfect Amsterdam day trip itinerary.
Morning: Continental Breakfast at Lunchroom Amarylles & Guided Canal Tour
Start your day with a relaxed breakfast at Lunchroom Amarylles. I had a cheese omelette with toast, paired with orange juice and coffee, all for €17 (£14.70). The combination was a perfect way to fuel up for the busy day ahead while soaking up the city’s atmosphere by the canal.
After breakfast, continue your morning by hopping on a guided canal tour. This 1-hour cruise will take you along Amsterdam’s famous waterways while a local guide shares interesting facts about the city’s history, architecture, and culture. The cost is €15 (£13), and it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Late Morning: Exploring the Streets & Flower Market
After your canal tour, take a wander through the streets of Amsterdam. The city is full of both familiar high-street shops, such as Primark and the Apple Store, as well as unique family-run stores that reflect the charm of the city. A visit to Amsterdam’s famous flower market is a must-see. Here you’ll find rows of vibrant flowers, including the iconic Dutch tulips, which are a great souvenir to bring home.
If you're near the main train station, pop into a few shops where you can try Gouda cheese, a famous Dutch delicacy. The city is full of cheese shops where you can sample different varieties and even purchase some to take home.
Lunch: Street Food at a Local Stall
For lunch, stop by one of the famous food stalls scattered across the city. I treated myself to a waffle with chocolate and a cheese panini—a delicious and filling combination for €10 (£8.60). I would recommend just choosing one, though, as both were quite filling, but they were definitely worth the taste!
Afternoon: Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
In the afternoon, head to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! for a quirky, fun experience. Tickets to the museum cost around €22.50 (£19.40), where you can explore a wide range of exhibits showcasing strange and fascinating artifacts from around the world. It’s a great way to break up your sightseeing with something a bit different and engaging.
Once you’re done at Ripley’s, take some time to explore the rest of the city. Amsterdam is incredibly walkable, so you can simply wander the streets and discover the hidden gems this charming city has to offer.
Evening: Stroll Along the Red Light District
In the evening, if you’re not feeling too hungry, Febo, the famous Dutch vending restaurant, is a fun stop. I tried a vegetarian croquette and a drink for just €8—perfect for a quick bite.
As evening falls, take a leisurely stroll along the Red Light District. While it's known for its more adult entertainment, the area is not as pervasive as one might expect and offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s open-minded culture. It’s a bustling area with restaurants, shops, and cafes to explore. If you’re looking for a more unique experience, you can visit Casa Rosa for a €2 peep show and see an alternative side of Amsterdam’s nightlife.
Cost Breakdown:
FlixBus (London to Amsterdam): £60 (depending on availability and booking time)
Continental Breakfast (Lunchroom Amarylles – Cheese Omelette with Toast, Orange Juice, Coffee): €17 (£14.70)
Guided Canal Tour: €15 (£13)
Lunch at Food Stall (Waffle & Cheese Panini): €10 (£8.60)
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Tickets: €22.50 (£19.40)
Febo Vending Restaurant (Vegetarian Croquette & Drink): €8 (£6.90)
Casa Rosa: €2 (£1.50) for a 2 minute peep show
Total: £125
Tips for a Successful Day Trip to Amsterdam:
Walking Around Amsterdam: Amsterdam is an incredibly walkable city, so there’s no real need for public transport unless you’re travelling from the bus terminal to the city centre. The 45-minute walk from the bus terminal to the city centre is a pleasant stroll along the canals, or you can take the metro for €2.90 (around 30 minutes).
Public Transport: If you do want to use public transport, consider buying a day pass to save on multiple metro trips.
Book in Advance for Anne Frank’s Museum: The Anne Frank Museum is incredibly popular, and tickets can sell out quickly. It’s recommended to book in advance if you're planning to visit.
Red Light District: While the Red Light District is one of Amsterdam's most famous areas, it’s not as pervasive as people may think. It’s also home to interesting shops and unique cafes. If you’d like a more daring experience, you can visit Casa Rosa for a €2 peep show.
Commenti