A few weeks ago, I spent four days in Amsterdam and two days in The Hague, a trip that completely changed my perception of Amsterdam City and the Netherlands as a whole. Like many visitors, I first explored Amsterdam Centrum with a bit of clumsiness… before falling hopelessly in love with it. This dynamic, cultural, and surprisingly peaceful destination deserves to be experienced beyond its clichés. In this article, I share my itinerary, mistakes, insights, and favorite places to help you enjoy city center and The Hague in the most authentic way.
Part 1: My 4-Day Stay in Amsterdam
My four-day itinerary focused on the essentials while trying to embrace local life.
Upon arriving at Schiphol Airport (AMS), I avoided the expensive taxis and Uber. The NS Dutch Railways train is fast (15–20 minutes) and costs only about €5.50 to reach the central station, the heart of Amsterdam Centrum.
Accommodation can be the biggest expense in Amsterdam City, especially around the city center, where prices and tourist traps are common. I chose to stay north of the city, accessible via free ferries, or in Haarlem, which is charming, authentically Dutch, cheaper, and only 15 – 30 minutes from Amsterdam.
If you prefer Airbnb, check the stairs in older Dutch buildings, they are extremely narrow and steep. Also note that most buildings lack air-conditioning, so summer heatwaves can be challenging.
Day 1: The Historic Heart and Amsterdam’s Iconic Canals
I started at Dam Square Amsterdam, the lively historical epicenter. There, I saw the National Monument and the Royal Palace. Interestingly, although ceremonies occur here, the royal family actually resides in The Hague.
I then sought out hidden gems. The Begijnhof offered a peaceful escape, with 17th-century houses surrounding a tranquil courtyard. House No. 34, dating from around 1475, is considered the oldest wooden house in the Netherlands.
In the afternoon, I explored the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, located on the Amsterdam canal known as Singel. Although iconic, it felt very touristy and many flowers are artificial.
For dinner, I tried bitterballen, a beloved Dutch bar snack, and ended with a warm stroopwafel. Hans Egstorf’s version was my favorite, even though Van Wonderen draws the longest lines.
I ended the day with a canal cruise. Seeing Amsterdam canals from the water is magical. If you’re traveling with a group, Mokumboat lets you rent self-drive electric boats for about €100 for two hours, far cheaper than many tourist operators. Sunset is perfect for photos and feels like the beginning of Amsterdam nightlife.
Day 2: Culture, Art and Museums one of things to do in Amsterdam
Day 2 was dedicated to the world-famous museums near Museumplein.
Rijksmuseum: The national museum of the Netherlands, home to Golden Age masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. Plan several hours here, it’s one of the museum highlights of the city.
Van Gogh Museum: Just five minutes away and home to the largest collection of Van Gogh artworks, including the iconic Sunflowers.
Booking Tip: Reserve tickets online well in advance, especially in high season.
In the afternoon, I visited the Anne Frank House, a deeply moving experience that walks you through the Secret Annex.
Crucial tip: Tickets open six weeks in advance on Tuesday morning and sell out quickly.
To lighten the mood, I stopped by the Amsterdam Cheese Museum, essentially a shop but an entertaining one, with free samples of Gouda, Edam, and more.
I ended the day in Jordaan Amsterdam, my favorite neighborhood. Once working-class, it’s now a bohemian district known for art galleries, indie shops. The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) are UNESCO-listed and perfect for shopping, photography, and strolling. I even found several hidden hofjes (inner courtyards), peaceful sanctuaries away from the crowds.
Day 3: Food, Locals, and Modern Amsterdam
I began the day in De Pijp, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods of Amsterdam City. The Albert Cuyp Marketis one of the busiest in the countryand it’s great for food lovers. I tried my first Dutch herring (Haring) and some deliciously affordable local stroopwafels.
Next, I biked to Westerpark, a favorite among locals and a less touristy alternative to Vondelpark. I stumbled upon a community garden full of tiny houses, beautifully maintained plots, and a fairytale atmosphere.
In the afternoon, I took the free ferry from Central Station to NDSM, a former shipyard turned hipster hub. Today, it’s filled with artists, independent projects, waterfront cafés, and impressive street art is one of the most creative areas in the city.
I ended the day at A’DAM Lookout, which offers spectacular 360° views over Amsterdam Centrum. If you’re brave, try Over the Edge, Europe’s highest swing. I enjoyed the sunset from the Sky Baris an incredible way to enjoy Amsterdam nightlife from above.
Day 4: A Countryside Escape Near Amsterdam
For my last day in the region, I visited Zaanse Schans, only 15 minutes from the city. It feels like an open-air museum, with wooden houses, windmills, and postcard-perfect scenery.
Tip: Arrive early. Crowds peak between noon and 2 p.m.
You can also visit Edam (famous for cheese) and Volendam (a charming fishing village known for fried kibbeling). The Netherlands train network makes these excursions extremely easy from the city center .
Part 2: My 2 Days in The Hague (Den Haag)
The Hague contrasts with Amsterdam in many ways. While the Royal Palace in Dam Square Amsterdam hosts state functions, the royal family actually lives in The Hague. The city is also a major political hub, home to government buildings and international institutions.
I found The Hague stunning, with its elegant gardens, calm energy, and many landmarks worth exploring. The slower pace allows you to enjoy a large Dutch city without the constant bustle of city center.
In Summary
My four days in Amsterdam City and two days in The Hague were eye-opening. I discovered a place that values art, education, freedom, and expression and a city best experienced by wandering through neighborhoods like Jordaan Amsterdam, exploring its museums, and embracing the cycling culture. Understanding public transport, avoiding tourist traps, and reserving museum tickets in advance are essential to turning a typical trip into a memorable, immersive journey through Amsterdam and its surroundings.