Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is known for its narrow canal-side mansions, its many museums and its artistic heritage. Both tourists and Dutch people like to visit Amsterdam because there is so much to experience. You don’t have to worry about getting bored there! Because there is so much to see and do in Amsterdam, we have put together a list of highlights that you should not miss. With this list, you can see Amsterdam in a day!
The best hotspots of Amsterdam
Amsterdam has plenty of fun hotspots that you can see in one day. From the old artistic buildings to the cozy lunch places: there is enough to see!
The Red Light District
You should definitely visit the Red Light District in Amsterdam when you are in the city.You can book several tours that will give you an insight into this part of the city. A visit to the Erotic Museum is also part of the tour. In addition to prostitution, there is much more to do in the Red Light District. For example, it is an important place for Amsterdam’s nightlife. There are many cozy bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal and drinks in the evening. In addition, next to the Red Light District you will find Amsterdam’s Chinatown where all kinds of Asian shops and restaurants are located. Lastly, a visit to the Oude Kerk and De Waag should not be missed if you are walking in this part of the city.
The canals
Amsterdam is known as the Venice of the North. And that is for a reason. Just like in Venice, many canals run right through the city. You will find the most beautiful canal houses which are very characteristic for Amsterdam. You can recognize the buildings by their narrow, deep and high construction. The access to the front door is often raised and you enter via a small stairway. A beautiful walk along the canals is a good idea when you are in Amsterdam. You also have the option to book various boat trips. This way you don’t have to walk, but you can see everything around the canals.
Museums
A day full of culture is also possible in Amsterdam. You will find many different museums in the city, where you can stroll through for a few hours. The best known museums are of course the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum and the Van Gogh Museum. But besides these large and well-known museums, there are plenty of others to visit. For example the Moco Museum, where you can admire modern street art. Are you into photography? Then you should take a look at the Fotomuseum. Have you ever heard of the Upside Down museum? In this Instagram museum you can take a picture with all kinds of crazy attributes and you walk through spaces that are actually upside down. The Fashion For Good museum is a must visit if you are always looking for the latest trends, fashion and sustainability. Last but not least, you should visit the Sex Museam. This popular museum is located near the Central Station. You can learn about the history of pornography and erotiscism. Here you see all kinds of erotic objects, paintings and sculptures.
Shopping streets
If you like to go shopping for a day, Amsterdam is the perfect city. The different shopping areas ensure that there are all kinds of shops that you like. The most famous shopping street is in the center of Amsterdam. Here you will find the Kalverstraat where all the famous shops are located. Do you prefer vintage shopping? Then take a look at the Nine Streets. Here you will come across all kinds of cute vintage shops where you can shop for yourself, but where you can also buy nice gifts. You will find real gems here! Are you looking for antiques? Then you should take a look in the Spiegelkwartier. You can visit the most beautiful antique shops in the city. Do you want to shop for luxury brands? Then go to the Museum Quarter. In the P.C. Hoofdstraat are all the major department stores and expensive brands located.
Coffee shops
Amsterdam is known for its coffee shops, especially by tourists. The many coffee shops are frequently visited by both tourists and day trippers. The shops are known for their relaxed atmosphere and the friendly people. Prix d’Ami, the largest coffee shop in the world, is certainly one of them. The shop is known for its pleasant atmosphere and extensive menu. You can go there for a delicious sandwich or large milkshake. But also a normal coffee or some soda belong to the options. If you want to relax and recover after a long day in Amsterdam, Prix d’Ami is the perfect place. Did you know that Prix d’Ami is only a two-minute walk from the Central Station? The route is very simple. From Central Station, cross the railway to Damrak. From there, take the first street on the right into Haringpakkerssteeg. On the left side of the street you will find Prix d’Ami.