11-Day Ultimate Amsterdam Itinerary for the Curious Traveler

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Amsterdam, Netherlands

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam

Kickstart your day with Dutch pancake delicacies at Pancakes Amsterdam, a local favorite.
Located in the city center; easy walking distance from major attractions.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Jordaan District

Stroll through the picturesque canals and narrow streets of the Jordaan, known for its independent art galleries and charming boutiques.
Walk from Pancakes Amsterdam.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Winkel 43

Enjoy their famous apple pie, served with whipped cream, and a light lunch surrounded by locals.
A short walk from Jordaan.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Anne Frank House

Immerse yourself in history at the poignant Anne Frank House, where the young diarist wrote her captivating diary during WWII.
Short walk from Café Winkel 43.
EUR12.50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at De Silveren Spiegel

Savor traditional Dutch cuisine in an atmospheric 17th-century building.
Take a short tram ride to the restaurant.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Canal Cruise

Relax on a scenic evening canal cruise, taking in the enchanting lights of the city from the water.
Meet at the departure dock near the Anne Frank House.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Museums and Culture

Amsterdam, Netherlands

8:30AM

Breakfast at Café de Jaren

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this canal-side café, famous for its fresh pastries and strong coffee.
Easily accessible by foot.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Rijksmuseum

Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, the Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art lovers.
Take tram line 2 or 5 from De Jaren.
EUR20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dutch Corner

Indulge in Dutch classics such as bitterballen and poffertjes at this cozy eatery.
5-minute walk from the Rijksmuseum.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Van Gogh Museum

Explore the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's works, with detailed insights into his life.
Directly adjacent to the Rijksmuseum.
EUR19, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stroll through Vondelpark

Unwind in Amsterdam's largest park, perfect for a leisurely walk or relaxation.
A short walk from Van Gogh Museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Blauw

Experience Indonesian rijsttafel, a unique culinary tradition introduced by the Dutch.
Take tram line 1 from Vondelpark.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Historic Insights

Amsterdam, Netherlands

9:00AM

Breakfast at Omelegg

Start your day with a delicious, filling omelet crafted with fresh local ingredients.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Discover the opulence of this historic building that once served as a town hall.
Walk to Dam Square.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café de Dam

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and some traditional Dutch snacks for lunch.
Located near the Royal Palace.
EUR15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Begijnhof

Visit this serene courtyard and one of the oldest inner courts in Amsterdam, featuring traditional wooden houses.
Short walk from lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Amsterdam Museum

Learn about the city's rich history through engaging exhibits in this central location.
Close to the Begijnhof.
EUR15, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at The Dam

Take in the lively atmosphere of Dam Square, a perfect spot for people-watching.
6-minute walk from museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pantry

Indulge in hearty Dutch dishes made from local ingredients in this cozy establishment.
Short walk from Dam Square.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Culture and Craft

Zaanse Schans, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel up for a fun day with breakfast at your hotel or nearby café.
Prepare for a short train ride.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Zaanse Schans

Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Koog-Zaandijk, then walk to Zaanse Schans to witness traditional windmills and craftsmanship.
30-minute train ride.
EUR6 round trip, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Windmills and Museums

Visit iconic windmills and museums, immersing in Dutch heritage, cheese-making, and clog crafting.
Walking around the site.
EUR10 (for some museums), 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at De Kraai

Enjoy traditional Dutch pancakes in a scenic setting with lovely views.
Located at Zaanse Schans.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Zaans Museum

Learn about the area's rich industrial past through exhibits and artifacts.
Short walk from lunch.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Travel back to Amsterdam

Enjoy the scenic train ride back to Amsterdam.
Return to the Koog-Zaandijk station and take the train back.
EUR6, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Het Elfde Gebod

Experience amazing Dutch comfort food in a uniquely decorated environment near the city center.
Tram number 1 to the restaurant.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Floral Wonders

Lisse, Netherlands (Keukenhof Gardens)

7:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading out for the day.
Conveniently at your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Keukenhof Gardens

Take a train to Schiphol Airport and then transfer to a bus that takes you directly to Keukenhof.
1 hour travel time.
EUR15 round trip, 1 hour

09:30AM

Explore Keukenhof Gardens

Marvel at the stunning floral displays and intricate gardens that Keukenhof is famous for.
Walking around the expansive gardens.
EUR19, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Keukenhof Restaurant

Grab a bite to eat before continuing your exploration, with lovely views of the gardens.
Within Keukenhof grounds.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Continue Exploring Keukenhof

Continue to wander through the spectacular gardens and enjoy the various flower exhibits.
Walking around the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Amsterdam

Take the bus back to Schiphol Airport and then return by train to Amsterdam.
1 hour
EUR15, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Cafe Restaurant van Zanten

Relax at this charming café with a warm atmosphere, enjoying hearty dishes.
In the city center of Amsterdam.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Charming Haarlem

Haarlem, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Indulge in a nice breakfast to prepare for your day trip.
At your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Haarlem

Take a short 15-minute train ride to the charming city of Haarlem.
Board the train from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR5 round trip, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Frans Hals Museum

Experience works by the Dutch Golden Age painter Frans Hals in this fantastic museum.
A 15-minute walk from the train station.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Jopenkerk

Dine in a former church, now a brewery, featuring hearty pub food and locally brewed beers.
Short walk from the museum.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Haarlem's Historic Center

Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the stunning architecture including St. Bavo's Cathedral.
Walking around the center.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Teylers Museum

Marvel at the oldest museum in the Netherlands, filled with natural history and art collections.
Walking distance from the historic center.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Amsterdam

Catch the train back to Amsterdam.
Board the train from Haarlem station.
EUR5, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Savor fresh seafood dishes in a vibrant restaurant atmosphere.
Not far from centrum.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 7: Day Trip to Utrecht

Utrecht, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast.
At your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Utrecht

Take a short train ride to Utrecht, known for its medieval Old Town.
Board the train from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR10 round trip, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Dom Tower

Climb to the top of the iconic Dom Tower for stunning views of the city.
Walk from the train station.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Broodje Mario

Enjoy a delicious sandwich at this local favorite eatery, serving comfort food.
Just a short walk from the Dom Tower.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Canals of Utrecht

Stroll along Utrecht's beautiful canals and discover the unique wharf cellars which house cafés and shops.
Easily accessible by foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Centraal Museum

Immerse yourself in the local art and history at this well-curated museum.
A 15-minute walk from the canals.
EUR15, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Amsterdam

Catch the train back to Amsterdam after an exciting day.
Board the train from Utrecht station.
EUR10, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Moeders

Enjoy traditional Dutch family meals in a homely atmosphere decorated with family photos.
Located in the center of Amsterdam.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 8: City of Modern Architecture

Rotterdam, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Rotterdam.
At your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Rotterdam

Take a train from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, famed for its modern architecture.
Board the train from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR15 round trip, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Cube Houses

Wander through the famous Cube Houses and experience this innovative architectural design.
5-minute walk from the train station.
EUR3, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit the Markthal

Enjoy lunch and shop at the magnificent Market Hall, filled with local delicacies and art.
Short walk from Cube Houses.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Take a Tour of the Maritime Museum

Dive into the rich maritime history of Rotterdam with engaging exhibits.
10-minute walk from Markthal.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll along the Erasmus Bridge

Enjoy a picturesque walk across this iconic bridge, dubbed 'The Swan' by locals.
Continue walking from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to Amsterdam

Catch the train back to Amsterdam, reflecting on your architectural day.
Board the train from Rotterdam station.
EUR15, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at A-Fusion

Enjoy a mix of Asian and Dutch fusion cuisine in a trendy atmosphere.
Back in Amsterdam near your hotel.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Heritage

The Hague, Netherlands

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Fuel your day for a journey to The Hague.
At your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to The Hague

Hop on a train to The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government.
Board the train from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR17 round trip, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Mauritshuis

Marvel at masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and other Dutch masters at this impressive museum.
Walking distance from train station.
EUR15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at De Bieb

Enjoy lunch at this lively café known for its delicious sandwiches and organic coffee.
Close to the museum.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Binnenhof

Discover the historic heart of The Hague at this impressive complex of parliamentary buildings.
Short walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Escher in Het Paleis

Admire the fascinating works of M.C. Escher in a unique palace setting.
Walk from the Binnenhof.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Amsterdam

Catch the train back to Amsterdam after a culturally enriching day.
Board the train from The Hague.
EUR17, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Savor fresh seafood dishes in a vibrant restaurant atmosphere.
Back in Amsterdam.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 10: Free Day in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bagels & Beans

Enjoy a bagel and coffee at this cozy café, perfect for a relaxed morning.
Choose a location nearby.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Local Markets

Visit the Albert Cuyp Market or the Flower Market for souvenirs and local delicacies.
Accessible by tram.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Foodhallen

Sample a variety of international foods at this bustling indoor food market.
Take tram line 3 or walk.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit A'DAM Lookout

Experience breathtaking views of Amsterdam from atop this observation tower.
Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR12, 1 hour

3:30PM

Stroll Along the 9 Streets

Wander the picturesque streets lined with unique boutiques and vintage shops.
Walk back to the city center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at De Kas

Savor seasonal dishes grown in their own garden at this unique greenhouse restaurant.
Take tram line 9 from the city center.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 11: Departure Day

Amsterdam, Netherlands

9:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy your last breakfast in Amsterdam in a relaxed setting.
At your hotel.
EUR0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up any souvenirs you might have missed during your stay.
Explore shops in the city center.
Variable, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Check out and Lunch at Broads & Butter

Enjoy a rustic lunch at this trendy café with healthy options.
Located centrally.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Transport to Airport

Make your way to Schiphol Airport using a direct train.
Catch the train from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR6, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Departure

Bid farewell to Amsterdam as you head to your next adventure.
Airport procedures.
Variable, Variable
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