6 Days in Amsterdam: Canals, Bicycles, and Hidden Art Gems
There’s something enchanting about Amsterdam from the moment you arrive. The city hums with the rhythm of bicycle wheels, boats gently bob on the canals, and every narrow alley seems to hold a story. Spending six days here gives you just enough time to sink into its artistic soul, soak up the laid-back lifestyle, and uncover corners most tourists miss.
As a solo female traveler, I found Amsterdam to be not just incredibly scenic, but also wonderfully safe and welcoming. Whether you’re weaving through the Jordaan district on two wheels or stumbling upon tucked-away galleries, this city invites curiosity—and rewards it in the most delightful ways.
Day 1: Glide Through the Canals
Start your trip with what Amsterdam does best: its iconic canals. Booking a morning canal cruise offers the perfect overview of the city and its unique layout. Choose a smaller, electric boat to navigate narrower routes and get a closer view of historic houseboats, tilting gabled homes, and bridges that seem pulled from a storybook.
In the afternoon, explore De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets). This charming neighborhood is packed with vintage shops, cozy cafés, and indie boutiques. It’s also a great area to pause for a slice of Dutch apple pie at Winkel 43, one of the city’s most beloved cafes.
Day 2: Museumplein and Artistic Giants
Dedicate your second day to the artistic heart of the city: Museumplein. The Rijksmuseum, with its Rembrandts and Vermeers, is a must-visit. Right next door, the Van Gogh Museum gives a moving glimpse into the artist’s troubled brilliance and bold brushstrokes.
Once your mind is full of masterpieces, head to nearby Vondelpark to stretch your legs. This expansive green space is perfect for a casual stroll or a relaxed picnic. In the warmer months, you might even catch a free open-air concert near the park’s open-air theatre.
Day 3: On Two Wheels Like a Local
Amsterdam isn’t Amsterdam without a bicycle. Rent one and ride through the less-touristy Eastern Docklands or the tranquil paths of Amsterdamse Bos, a forest just outside the city. It’s exhilarating and gives you a whole new perspective—plus, it’s how locals get around.
Later, park your bike in De Pijp, a buzzing multicultural neighborhood. Here, you’ll find the Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam’s largest street market. Pick up some fresh stroopwafels or try Surinamese street food—yes, you read that right. Amsterdam’s colonial history has brought unexpected flavors.
Day 4: Hidden Art Gems
If you’ve had your fill of big-name museums, dive into Amsterdam’s lesser-known art treasures. FOAM is a photography museum that always features thought-provoking exhibitions. Or check out Het Hem, a contemporary art space in a former munitions factory that feels like a secret even locals are still discovering.
Afterward, walk along the Spuistraat, where street art covers the buildings like an evolving outdoor gallery. Look out for hidden courtyards, often accessible through unmarked doors—many date back to the 17th century and offer a peaceful pause from the city buzz.
Day 5: Day Trip to Haarlem or Zaanse Schans
Use this day to venture beyond Amsterdam. Just 15 minutes by train, Haarlem is a compact version of Amsterdam with fewer crowds and equally beautiful canals. Visit the Frans Hals Museum and grab lunch on the picturesque Grote Markt.
If you’re more into windmills and Dutch tradition, head to Zaanse Schans. This open-air museum village has working windmills, clog workshops, and cheese tastings. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s also wildly charming—especially early in the morning before the crowds roll in.
Day 6: Slow Down and Savor
Spend your final day indulging in the little things. Start with brunch at Pluk, tucked in the heart of the Jordaan, and then take a self-guided walking tour of the begijnhof and surrounding historic courtyards. These peaceful areas feel like stepping back in time.
In the evening, treat yourself to a canal-side dinner at De Kas, a greenhouse-restaurant sourcing ingredients straight from its gardens. As the sun sets and the city’s reflections dance on the water, you’ll feel a deep appreciation for Amsterdam’s gentle magic—and the rhythm of a city that’s best explored slowly.
