tips from our locals
2 days in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city full of history and culture. You can easily spend several days here without getting bored, as there is something for everyone. Together with our local team, we’ve mapped out a two-day itinerary that helps you discover the charming city centre and great places to eat.
Day 1: Museums and canals
Amsterdam has a rich history, reflected in its museums and canals.
Travel to the starting point
Take metro 53 from Gaasperplas to Weesperplein station. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Museumplein. You’ll walk along wide streets and cross the Amstel river, giving you a great first impression of the city.
Prefer less walking? Take tram 1 towards Osdorp Dijkgraafplein and get off at the Rijksmuseum stop. Or take tram 7 towards Slotermeer and get off at Spiegelgracht stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to Museumplein.
Book your public transport tickets
Morning: Rijksmuseum en Van Gogh Museum
Museumplein is the cultural heart of Amsterdam. Here you’ll find two museums that together tell the story of Dutch art history. Start at the Rijksmuseum, where you can see famous masterpieces such as The Night Watch and learn how Amsterdam developed over the centuries.
Afterwards, visit the Van Gogh Museum, where you can explore Van Gogh’s life and work up close. Visiting these museums in the morning allows you to begin your day in a calm and meaningful way before the city gets busier.
Lunch at the Albert Cuyp Market
From Museumplein, walk about ten minutes to the Albert Cuyp Market via ‘Van Baerlestraat’ street and ‘Ferdinand Bolstraat’ street.
The Albert Cuyp Market is Amsterdam’s most famous market and gives you a glimpse of everyday city life. Try a traditional Dutch herring sandwich from a fish stall or enjoy a fresh stroopwafel made right in front of you.
Afternoon: Through the canals towards the Jordaan
After lunch, walk towards the Singelgracht and follow the Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht canals. Together, these canals form a UNESCO World Heritage site and show how Amsterdam was designed as a trading city.
If you’d like to learn more about the history of the canals and the growth of the city, visit the Canal Museum on ‘Herengracht’ street. It offers accessible background information about what you see along the way.
Take a break at a waterside café for coffee and traditional Dutch apple pie.
Evening: Canal cruise and dinner in the Jordaan
In the late afternoon, head towards the Jordaan district. Near the Westertoren, canal cruises depart throughout the day. Around sunset, the atmosphere is especially beautiful. From the water, you’ll see illuminated bridges and quiet canals from a different perspective.
After the cruise, stay in the Jordaan for dinner. This neighbourhood is known for its cosy restaurants and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a pleasant first evening.
From the city centre, take metro 53 back to Gaasperplas. End your day with a short walk through Gaasperpark or explore the green surroundings of Camperpark Amsterdam.
Download the Camperpark app
Are you already using the free Camperpark Amsterdam app? With our app, you always have your reservation at hand and can easily book tickets. You’ll also find local tips, activities and public transport information. Everything you need, right in your pocket.
Day 2: Coffee and culture
Travel to the starting point
Take metro 53 to Nieuwmarkt station. This square lies on the edge of the old city and is a pleasant place to start your day. It’s slightly quieter than Dam Square, yet full of history.
Book public transport tickets
Morning: The Nine Streets and coffee bars
From Nieuwmarkt, walk via ‘Kloveniersburgwal’ street towards The Nine Streets. This area, next to the Jordaan, is known for its small boutiques, local shops and cosy coffee bars. It’s a lovely place to stroll around, find souvenirs and enjoy a good coffee.
Afternoon: Anne Frank House or modern culture
From The Nine Streets, walk about fifteen minutes along ‘Prinsengracht’ street towards the Anne Frank House, passing the Westertoren. A visit here makes the history of the Second World War personal and impactful. Tickets must be booked in advance.
Prefer something different? Continue to De Hallen in Amsterdam West. Here you’ll find a mix of food, shops and culture, offering a more modern side of the city.
Lunch: Typical Dutch food in the Jordaan and The Nine Streets
The Jordaan and The Nine Streets are perfect places to try traditional Dutch snacks. You’ll find many informal cafés where locals also enjoy eating.
Our locals recommend: Proeflokaal A for traditional croquettes, FEBO for snacks from the famous vending wall, HEMA for a warm smoked sausage, Or enjoy pea soup in one of the many cafés in the Jordaan.
Late afternoon: NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam North
Travel to Amsterdam Central Station and take the free ferry to NDSM Wharf. The crossing takes about ten minutes and offers great views over the IJ river.
On the other side, you’ll find street art, creative studios and cafés in former industrial warehouses. It’s a raw and creative area that shows a completely different side of Amsterdam compared to the historic centre.
Evening: Relaxed ending
End your trip with a drink in a traditional brown café or a modern bar near Central Station or Nieuwmarkt. If you enjoy live music, check if there’s a concert at Paradiso or Melkweg.
Afterwards, take metro 53 back to Gaasperplas and walk back to Camperpark Amsterdam, where the green surroundings and peaceful atmosphere offer a relaxed end to your stay.
Discover Amsterdam
Would you like more inspiration for your visit? Explore our other activity pages or stop by reception for more information.
