There’s almost always something happening on a weekend in Amsterdam, my new adoptive home, which makes it one of the best cities for a short break. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll likely find pop-up restaurants, theatre performances, music festivals or food markets, so planning a two- or three-day itinerary can be pleasantly overwhelming.
Below are some favourite activities and highlights you can easily fit into a weekend in the city.
Stroll through Vondelpark – Or cycle through it, which is just as local. Vondelpark can be busy and touristy, but Amsterdam residents love to relax here on warm evenings and sunny afternoons. Find a grassy spot, sit back and enjoy some people-watching; it’s a simple, quintessentially Dutch way to spend time.
Anne Frank House – A visit to the Anne Frank House is a moving experience and an important part of understanding the city’s history. If you’ve read Anne Frank’s diary, the visit is especially poignant. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long waits at the entrance.
Take a food tour – Sampling local cuisine is one of the best ways to explore any city. Dutch food sometimes gets a bad rap, but it’s varied and interesting. Guided food tours take the guesswork out of finding great bites and lead you to local favourites, from traditional treats to modern street food.
Brouwerij ’t IJ – Skip the mass-market brewery experiences and head to Brouwerij ’t IJ, a beloved local brewery next to a windmill. The beers are robust, so pair them with the snacks available at the bar. One popular brew, Zatte, has a name that translates roughly to “drunk,” so drink responsibly and enjoy the atmosphere.
Take the ferry to Noord – Behind Centraal Station, frequent free ferries cross to Amsterdam Noord. Once there you’ll find the Eye Film Museum, creative bars and cafes, and some venues set up in repurposed shipping containers—an area that feels fresh, relaxed and slightly off the beaten path.
Enjoy coffee and a stroopwafel – Amsterdam has a strong independent coffee scene, with roasters and cafés that focus on quality rather than quick chain-style service. Try a stroopwafel (syrup waffle) warmed on top of your coffee so the caramel softens, or sample one of the cafes’ homemade desserts. Either way, slow down and savour the moment.
Visit a food market – Markets such as Ten Katemarkt and Albert Cuypmarkt are popular, but neighbourhood markets appear across the city on different days. They sell fresh produce, clothing and household items, and often feature food stalls offering fries, spring rolls, waffles, fresh juices and other treats—perfect for sampling local flavours.