Start your day with pancakes
Who can claim to have travelled to
Amsterdam without having sampled their authentic pancakes? PANCAKES Amsterdam not only serves the most delicious variety of Hollandse Pannenkoeken or Dutch pancakes, but also a wonderful array of the American version of pancakes. Also on offer are poffertjes – tiny, fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth pancakes. Eat to your heart’s content as you decide what to do in Amsterdam on your very first day.
Visit the Royal Palace Amsterdam
Visit Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace) to feel dwarfed by its grand interiors. The palace is one of three palaces of Amsterdam that is still being used by the Dutch royal family. Explore its stunning 17th century classical architecture and wander to the imposing Citizens’ Hall to admire the marble floor and the large statue of Atlas holding up the sky.
Pay homage at Anne Frank House
Make your way to the Anne Frank House, one of the most visited places in Amsterdam, to tick the next item off your Amsterdam things to do list. Go behind the swinging bookcase and down to the secret hiding place where Anne Frank and her family lay hiding from the Nazis for two years, before they were found. Relive the difficult time through the various the museum exhibits, from candid black and white photographs to the original red chequered diary.
Grab a meal at Noordermarkt
From organic fruits, vegetables and herbs, to coffee rolls, croissants, and raspberry cakes, the Farmer's Market on Noordermarkt offers a range of delicious foods. Browse the various stalls selling the freshest produce and create your own lunch menu.
Enjoy an al fresco lunch
After selecting your lunch, make your way to Vondelpark, the largest park in Amsterdam. Find a quiet corner amidst the 47 acres of lush greenery, either under the cool shade of a tree or by the shimmering waters of the pond and enjoy a delightful al fresco lunch – a must on every what to do in Amsterdam list.
Admire Van Gogh’s art
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to view some of the best works of the country’s famous son. Home to a large collection of the artist’s painting and letters, you will have the opportunity to view up to 200 pieces of art from the legendary post-impressionist artist.
Take a quiet cruise along the canals
Amsterdam has been famously known as the Venice of the North and it is time to find out why. Book a canal cruise and glide under the many bridges, lined with elm and lime trees, as you enjoy a Venice-esque view of the beautiful, laidback city. To cruise the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing elegant merchant’s residences that reflect the prosperity of the Dutch Golden Age, is one of the top Amsterdam things to do. A canal cruise is the perfect way to conclude day one of your 48 hours in
Amsterdam.