10-Day Cultural and Scenic Exploration of Amsterdam

Day 1: Historic Center Walk

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 18, 2025

1:00pm

Lunch at Pancakes Amsterdam

Enjoy traditional Dutch pancakes with a variety of savory and sweet toppings in this cozy spot near Centraal Station. Ideal to fuel up for your exploration of Amsterdam’s historic center.
EUR15, 1h

2:30pm

Walking Tour of Amsterdam’s Canal Ring

Discover the UNESCO-listed canal ring’s charming architecture and rich history through a guided walking tour spanning the Jordaan neighborhood and the Old City. Great for first-time visitors.
EUR20, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Anne Frank House

Explore the moving museum chronicling Anne Frank's life and the impact of WWII, located in the house where she hid. Ensure you have pre-booked tickets as it is very popular.
EUR14, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moeders

Taste authentic Dutch home cooking at Moeders, a restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes served with local flair.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Museumplein Art Day

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters

Start your day with gourmet coffee and wholesome breakfast bowls at this popular New Zealand style café in De Pijp district.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Rijksmuseum Visit

Immerse yourself in Dutch Golden Age art including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer in this world-renowned art museum. Opens at 9am; plan 2-3 hours.
EUR20, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Rijksmuseum Café

Enjoy a light lunch or pastries inside the Rijksmuseum’s café, surrounded by art and architecture.
EUR18, 1h

2:30pm

Van Gogh Museum

Explore the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's works, gaining insight into his life and artistic evolution. Closed on Mondays; opens 9am-6pm.
EUR19, 2h

5:00pm

Walk in Vondelpark

Relax with a leisurely stroll or cycle in Amsterdam’s largest city park, a lovely green space near Museumplein perfect to unwind after museums.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes, including oysters and lobster, at this elegant yet relaxed Amsterdam favorite.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Zaanse Schans and Windmills

Amsterdam, Netherlands / Zaanse Schans, Netherlands on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or local café

Start with a hearty Dutch breakfast before heading to Zaanse Schans for the day.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Zaanse Schans

Take a 40-minute train and bus journey to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque area showcasing traditional Dutch windmills and crafts.
EUR7, 1h

10:00am

Explore Zaanse Schans Open Air Museum

Visit operational windmills, traditional wooden houses, and artisan workshops including clog makers and cheese farms. Opens 9am-5pm.
Free, some specific workshops EUR5-10, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at De Kraai Pancake Restaurant

Dine on Dutch pancakes with views of the windmills for an authentic countryside meal.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Head back to Amsterdam for afternoon relaxation or spontaneous activities.
EUR7, 1h

4:00pm

Visit A’DAM Lookout

Experience panoramic views of Amsterdam from this observation deck with a swing that dangles over the edge. Open until 10pm.
EUR14, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Foodhallen

Enjoy a variety of street foods with international flavors at this vibrant indoor food market in a former tram depot.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 4: Historic Haarlem Day

Amsterdam, Netherlands / Haarlem, Netherlands on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Stach

Grab fresh pastries and coffee at this local favorite before day-tripping.
EUR8, 45m

9:00am

Travel to Haarlem

A quick 15-minute train ride west to Haarlem, a charming historic town with art, churches, and shops.
EUR5, 30m

9:45am

Visit Frans Hals Museum

See an exquisite collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings by Frans Hals and contemporaries. Open 11am-5pm; check availability for early arrival.
EUR16, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Jopenkerk Brewery

Taste craft beers and hearty meals in a stunning old church converted into a brewery.
EUR25, 1h15m

1:30pm

Explore Grote Markt and St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Walk around the lively market square and visit the iconic cathedral famous for its organ once played by Mozart.
Free entrance; Cathedral entry EUR3, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Head back to Amsterdam for dinner and evening relaxation.
EUR5, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Greetje

Savor upscale traditional Dutch cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients in a charming setting.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 5: Modern Amsterdam & Shopping

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Scandinavian Embassy

Enjoy high-quality coffee and Nordic-inspired breakfast dishes in a trendy setting in De Pijp.
EUR15, 1h

10:00am

Stedelijk Museum

Explore modern and contemporary art and design at this extensive and innovative museum. Opens 10am-6pm.
EUR18, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at De 9 Straatjes

Wander through the Nine Streets district, dotted with quirky cafés and boutiques; enjoy lunch at one of its charming restaurants such as Pluk Amsterdam.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping Tour in De 9 Straatjes

Explore boutiques, galleries, and artisanal shops in this unique neighborhood, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Relax at Café Winkel 43

Don’t miss the famed apple pie at this popular café, a perfect afternoon treat.
EUR6, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at De Kas

Dine in a greenhouse setting with dishes crafted from organic ingredients grown on site, offering a unique farm-to-table experience.
EUR60, 2h
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Day 6: NDSM Wharf & Art

Amsterdam, Netherlands / NDSM Wharf, Amsterdam on May 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Stach

Fuel your day with freshly baked bread and outstanding coffee at this beloved local chain.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Ferry to NDSM Wharf

Take the free ferry from behind Central Station to the hip NDSM Wharf area, known for street art, creative spaces, and festivals.
Free, 30m

10:00am

Explore Street Art and Creative Spaces

Walk around to see vibrant murals, visit artist studios, and check out alternative cultural venues like Pllek and Noorderlicht café.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pllek

Enjoy organic, vegetarian-friendly meals in a relaxed industrial-chic environment overlooking the water.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Return to city center

Head back to central Amsterdam for a relaxed afternoon or optional museum visits.
Free ferry, 30m

4:00pm

Relax at the Hortus Botanicus

Visit one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world featuring exotic plants and greenhouses. Open 10am-5pm, last entry 4:30pm.
EUR12, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bazar Amsterdam

Experience colorful Middle Eastern and North African inspired dishes in an eclectic and lively setting in De Pijp.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 7: Day Trip to Keukenhof Gardens

Amsterdam, Netherlands / Lisse, Netherlands on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Enjoy an early breakfast to prepare for a full day visiting the famous spring flower gardens.
EUR10, 45m

8:30am

Travel to Keukenhof Gardens

Take a 45-minute bus ride to Keukenhof, celebrated for its breathtaking displays of tulips and other flowers. Open daily 8am-7:30pm in spring season.
EUR30 roundtrip transport + EUR20 entrance, 1h

9:30am

Explore Keukenhof Gardens

Walk through the colorful themed gardens, pavilions, and exhibitions showcasing flower arranging and gardening.
EUR20, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Keukenhof Restaurant

Rest and refuel with light meals and refreshments inside the park’s main restaurant.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Head back to Amsterdam for the evening.
Included in prior transport cost, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Café de Klos

Enjoy hearty Dutch and European grilled meats and ribs in a lively, rustic atmosphere close to the city center.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 8: Historic Churches & Markets

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Vinnies

Eat local organic food in a small, cozy café popular for breakfast and lunch.
EUR15, 1h

10:00am

Visit Oude Kerk

Explore Amsterdam’s oldest building and church, dating back to the 13th century, notable for its haunting and beautiful architecture.
EUR10, 1h

11:30am

Stroll around Noordermarkt and Jordaan

Browse the lively Saturday markets including antiques and organic food, then explore the boutique shops of the Jordaan district.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Café Winkel 43

Taste the famous Dutch apple pie and light meals in this comfortable café popular with locals and visitors.
EUR15, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Tulip Museum

Learn about the history of the tulip trade and its significance to Dutch culture.
EUR7, 1h

4:00pm

Relax by the canals

Take time to sit or boat along the scenic canals, soaking in the atmosphere.
Rental boat approx EUR20-30 per hour, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Duchess

Experience luxurious dining in a grand setting with fine European cuisine and excellent wine selection.
EUR70, 2h
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Day 9: Science & Innovation

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Broodje Bert

Try hearty Dutch sandwiches in a casual, popular spot near Central Station.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

NEMO Science Museum

Engage with interactive science and technology exhibits at this family-friendly museum housed in an iconic ship-shaped building. Open 10am-5:30pm.
EUR17.50, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Museumplein Food Trucks

Enjoy a casual meal from rotating food trucks offering diverse cuisines near Museumplein.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Eye Filmmuseum

Visit this striking waterside museum dedicated to film heritage and modern cinema, with rotating exhibitions and film screenings.
EUR11, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sea Palace

Dine on authentic Chinese cuisine at Amsterdam’s floating restaurant, offering scenic views over the water.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Relax & Departure

Amsterdam, Netherlands on May 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with classic and creative dishes to start your last day in Amsterdam.
EUR15, 1h

10:00am

Relax at Amsterdamse Bos

Spend a few hours enjoying the large urban park’s trails, ponds, and wildlife before heading home.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at De Nieuwe Meer

Have a scenic lakeside lunch at this charming spot in the Amsterdamse Bos park.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Prepare for departure

Head back to your accommodation to pack and check out, allowing time for transfer to the airport or train station.
Varies, 2h
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