Only have one day in Amsterdam? You can still hit the classics, canals, world-class art, iconic landmarks, shopping, and one “just-for-fun” attraction, without turning your day into a stressful sprint.

This itinerary is built for first-timers and works whether you’re arriving by train at Amsterdam Centraal or staying in the city center.

Quick tips before you start (so you don’t waste time)

• Book museum start times in advance. The Rijksmuseum requires a booked start time for all visitors.

• If you add the Van Gogh Museum, it also uses online tickets with a start time.

• For your fun activity:

  • Heineken Experience is timed-entry too (and 18+ only).

  • The Upside Down Amsterdam is also timed-entry.

• Want to “feed the pigeons” on Dam Square? The vibe is iconic, but feeding animals in public spaces is prohibited and can lead to a fine. Enjoy the pigeons… just don’t feed them.

1-Day Amsterdam Itinerary (hour-by-hour)

09:00 – Start at Amsterdam Centraal + Damrak stroll

Begin at Amsterdam Centraal Station for that classic “I’m really here!” moment. Walk down Damrak toward the old center this route is scenic, lively, and a perfect warm-up for the day.

Optional mini-moment: Grab a quick coffee-to-go and simply take in the bikes, canals, and chaos (it’s part of the charm).

09:30 – Dam Square + Royal Palace (Paleis op de Dam)

Next up: Dam Square, Amsterdam’s historic heart. Snap your photos, watch the street scene, and admire the Royal Palace.

If you want to go inside the palace, check the calendar first, opening depends on royal events.

10:15 – Shopping stop (because yes, naturally you must shop)

Amsterdam is made for wandering into shops you didn’t plan on entering.

Best area for a “one-day” shopping walk: De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets) — boutique shopping right in the canal belt, close to Dam Square.

Other easy options if you want bigger chains:

• Kalverstraat (main shopping street) with the Lego store and the fun Captain Candy store.

• Magna Plaza / department stores around Dam with the famous Dutch store De Bijenkorf which is an upscale department store.

11:00 – Canal cruise (a must in one day)

Do the canal tour before museums if you can: you’ll get your bearings, rest your feet, and see the city from its best angle.

A very easy option is a cruise that departs near Amsterdam Centraal (Prins Hendrikkade area). We recommend this hour long tour. (click here)

12:30 – Lunch (3 great options)

Pick one based on your route:

1. The Pancake Bakery (classic Amsterdam pancakes, great location on Prinsengracht)

2. Pluk (9 Straatjes) (fresh lunch + cute shopping vibe in the same area)

3. Bakers & Roasters (big brunch energy; popular and busy—go early if you can)

14:00 – Rijksmuseum (art + Dutch history in one)

Time for the heavy hitter: the Rijksmuseum. Even if you’re not an “art museum person,” this place is iconic and it’s a perfect slice of Dutch culture. (Remember: you must book a start time.)

How long? 1.5–2.5 hours is ideal for a one-day plan but if you love pairings you can spend a day here.

16:30 – Add a second museum (choose ONE)

• Option A: Van Gogh Museum (best choice for most visitors): If you love paintings (or just want the biggest-name artist experience), go Van Gogh. Tickets are online only and require a start time.
• Option B: Extra Rijksmuseum time: If you’re fully in the zone (and don’t want to rush across Museumplein), stay longer in the Rijksmuseum and take it slower.

18:00 – Something fun: Heineken Experience OR The Upside Down

Choose based on your group:

Heineken Experience (18+): A classic Amsterdam “fun stop,” with timed entry (you can arrive within a short window around your slot).

The Upside Down Amsterdam (all ages, very Instagram-friendly): Colorful, playful, interactive rooms—great if you want something light after museums. Timed tickets apply.

20:00 – Dinner (3 strong picks)

1. Vegan Temple Bar (really good option if you want vegan comfort food)

2. Moeders (traditional Dutch cuisine; cozy, classic dinner choice)

3. Sampurna (Indonesian rijsttafel, one of the most loved food experiences in NL)

Snack warnings you’ll thank us for

• The “famous Instagram fries”: Yes, you can queue for the viral fries spots (hello, TikTok and Insta crowds) but honestly? You can get amazing fries a short walk away with less waiting.
• The “viral stroopwafels”: Some stroopwafel shops are famous online and famously overpriced.  If you want an authentic favorite, go for fresh stroopwafels at Albert Cuyp Market (Rudi’s is a well-known classic).

If you have more time in Amsterdam: One day is enough to hit the highlights, but Amsterdam truly shines when you can slow down. If you’re staying longer, check out our perfect 3-day Amsterdam itinerary, where we spread the must-dos (like the canal belt, the big museums and the best neighbourhoods) across three relaxed days with extra time for markets, hidden courtyards, day-trip options, and the kind of “wander moments” that make the city feel magical.