How to spend 48hrs in Amsterdam
Step into a world where charming canals wind through centuries-old streets and where some of the best food stops await. Earlier this year, I embarked on a 48-hour journey in the heart of Europe – Amsterdam. Determined to savour every moment and experience this vibrant city in all its glory, I set out on an adventure that left me with memories to last a lifetime.
From tasting Amsterdam’s tastiest foods at hidden gems to strolling along the picturesque canals and immersing myself in the rich tapestry of art and culture, my whirlwind visit to Amsterdam was nothing short of enchanting. In this blog post, I invite you to join me as I recount the highlights of my 48 hours in this captivating Dutch capital. Whether planning your own Amsterdam escapade or simply looking to indulge in its splendours vicariously, this is your ultimate guide to making the most of your time in this iconic city. So, grab your bicycle and let’s embark on a journey through the wonders of Amsterdam!
1. Try a Stroopwafel
The delicious Stroopwafel is a traditional Dutch pastry. They comprise two thin, round waffles with a layer of caramel syrup or “Stroop” between them. The waffles are usually made from a dough of flour, butter, brown sugar and eggs. They are often flavoured with cinnamon and vanilla.
Stroopwafels are usually eaten as a snack with a hot drink. Moreover, you can take your experience up a notch by gently resting a larger Stroopwafel atop a freshly brewed coffee or tea, allowing the syrupy core to melt. Imagine the sheer bliss of this moment: perched outside a charming Amsterdam café, the gentle ripples of canal boats providing a mesmerising backdrop as your Stroopwafel caramel gooey goodness starts to melt gracefully atop your coffee cup.
I visited Rudi’s Original Stroopwafel, which is freshly baked daily. As I approached this charming, traditional market stand, the sweet symphony of caramel and cinnamon wafted through the air, guiding me to its irresistible source. Nestled in the heart of the iconic Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam, Rudi’s near number 182—a historical building crowned with a golden angel. It makes it a beacon for all those seeking the authentic taste of Amsterdam’s beloved stroopwafels.
2. Explore the beautiful streets of Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s enchanting labyrinth of hidden backstreets beckons, inviting you to venture off the well-trodden path. You can embark on an aimless stroll in any direction, or if you prefer, I’ve curated a selection of the city’s most captivating streets for exploring:
- Nieuwe Hoogstraat, shop for goods on one of the city’s busiest shopping streets
- Javastraat, find Dutch gifts in traditional shops
- Lindengracht, see the monuments on a heritage street
- Brouwersgracht, explore unique shops on a historic thoroughfare
- Oudezijds Voorburgwal, find elicit delights canalside
- Herengracht, see treasured canal homes along the water
3. Have a bite to eat at Smoked Crispy Bacon Sandwich House
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of shopping in Amsterdam with one of the tastiest bacon sandwiches you’ll ever eat. Smoked Crispy Bacon Sandwich House is renowned for its signature BLT but has an array of just as deliciously sounding fillings if you prefer something else. I opted for the ‘Sandwich Jordaan,’ a crowd favourite that exceeded all expectations. The bacon? Exquisitely crispy. The salad? Fresh and tasty. And the pesto mayo? A revelation in saucy perfection. Attempting to recreate this masterpiece at home has proven elusive, but the quest continues. For bacon enthusiasts and those searching for a tasty, good-value sandwich, Smoked Crispy Bacon Sandwich House is an absolute must-visit.
4. Visit Moco Museum
I only had time for one museum on my trip, so after much research, I decided to hit up the Moco Museum.
Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the Moco Museum stands as a unique and independent institution, boasting a rich tapestry of modern, contemporary, and street art. I discovered that the true gem of this museum lies on its lower floor – a fun realm of interactive art that quickly became my favourite.
Housed within the charming Villa Alsberg, an elegant townhouse overlooking the iconic Museumplein, Moco Amsterdam effortlessly marries art and architecture.
Moco Museum took roughly two hours to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual admirer, the Moco Museum promises an enriching experience worth visiting.
Top tip: book your tickets in advance, as a week before I was due to visit they had sold out!
5. Explore De Pijp
If you want a change from the centre of Amsterdam, De Pjip is well worth checking out.
A 30-minute walk from Amsterdam centre, the lively Latin Quarter has much to offer. From its colourful mix of cuisines, terraces and convivial cafés to the beautifully landscaped gardens of Sarphatipark and the famous Albert Cuypmarkt Street market, there’s something for everyone. De Pijp has a natural, trendy feel to it. De Pijp is the place for creatives, students, and free spirits, exuding an unmistakable bohemian charm.
My hotel was just a short distance from De Pijp, so I spent much time hanging out in the Quarter. After arriving in Amsterdam at 11 pm, I enjoyed a tipple, explored the market and hit up a great breakfast (check out number 6 in this post!).
6. Breakfast at Little Collins
I had one of the best breakfasts in my life whilst visiting Amsterdam. After reading countless reviews about the best food in Amsterdam, I’d had my eyes on this place for a
while, so I had to go! You can’t book at Little Collins, so we joined the queue and were seated within 30 minutes.
Little Collins is a brunch and coffee spot in the heart of the vibrant De Pijp. On the menu, you’ll find items such as ricotta walnut crepe, kimchi scramble, gruyere potato hash, fava bean falafel with hummus, labneh, beet salad and a selection of smaller brunch items such as banana bread and granola. I chose the poached eggs, chilli butter, smoked labneh, dukkah, and pita bread. It was so damn good! Some of the tastiest eggs I’ve ever eaten, and now eggs with chilli butter have become a new favourite at home.
It’s a lovely little spot with an incredibly chilled vibe, and if it’s a sunny day, you can eat your brunch outside with an area of people-watching.
7. Have a drink at one of Amsterdams oldest cafes, Hoppe
Stepping into Café Hoppe is like entering a time capsule, where history mingles with the spirited chatter of patrons. Established in 1670, this Dutch gem boasts an ambience steeped in tradition, featuring a striking display of vintage gin barrels that line the walls. There’s a tale that Hans van Mierlo used the cafe for pivotal meetings, laying the foundations for the liberal D’66 party, and the enchanting memory of a young Princess Beatrix gracing its hallowed halls before her reign.
The charming wooden panels exude warmth, and the creaky stairs whisper secrets of centuries gone by. Nestled in the heart of the lively Joordaan district, this historic establishment is a haven for beer enthusiasts, offering an array of brews to complement its traditional bar snacks and daily menu.
I ordered the Amsterdamse ossenworst, a raw beef sausage, and tasted the Gehaktballetjes, small meatballs. While the meatballs were an undeniable hit, I discovered that raw sausage was a different pint of beer. Nevertheless, I relish the opportunity to have experienced this quintessential Dutch delicacy in such a traditional setting.
8. Sample a snack from a famous Dutch vending machine!
Did you know there are vending machines in Amsterdam that serve hot foods such as burgers, fried cheese and other fried foods through vending machines? If you haven’t, let me introduce you to the world of Automats, a quirky culinary venture primarily operated by the renowned FEBO.
These glass-panelled contraptions house a selection of around five different items, ranging from mouthwatering frikandel sausages to burgers and croquettes. While some FEBO Automats have now embraced the convenience of contactless payment options, the majority still beckon the jingle of coins, keeping the transaction firmly grounded in cash.
I had to try a snack from one of these vending machines. After a tipple, I stumbled to the nearest Automat and randomly selected a hot snack. To this day, I remain blissfully unaware of the exact snack I devoured, but that was all part of the adventure’s charm! If, unlike me, you want to know what you’re eating, the items are listed in Dutch, and you can easily translate them on your phone. It was the perfect blend of crispiness, meaty, and a medley of veggies, leaving me with a lingering taste that ensured I’d eagerly repeat the experience.
9. Have a drink at the award winning Pulitzer Bar
Set within twenty-five restored 17th and 18th-century houses, Pulitzer Bar is a hotel serving contemporary cocktails through a classic menu in an elegant atmosphere. Pulitzer Amsterdam is a unique blend of traditional Dutch craftsmanship and modern design nestled amongst the city’s most iconic canals.
We had one drink here, as it’s not the cheapest spot for a drink, but the cocktail menu is varied and exciting, and it’s a beautiful setting to sit for a while and let the world go by. I opted for the Chocolate Factory Martini, a tribute to 1909 when Keizersgracht 224 was turned into a chocolate factory. You can book a table, or do what we did and turn up and hope for the best!
10. Drool over delicious vegan pancakes at Mr. Stacks
Pancakes that have been elevated to something out of Masterchef the professionals but with a touch of Alice in Wonderland, Mr. Stacks will not disappoint. This enchanting experience awaits you at Mr. Stacks, a pancake party that promises a truly unforgettable mouthful. And did I mention that all their pancakes are entirely vegan?
At Mr. Stacks, you’re transported to a world where pancakes take centre stage in savoury and sweet renditions adorned with creative and imaginative toppings that will leave your taste flipping. Allow me to entice you with a glimpse of their extraordinary menu offerings. There’s the ‘Panzza,’ a fun take on the classic pizza, and the ‘Cinnamon Rollercoaster Stack,’ a taste of autumn served on a plate.
As for my choice, I surrendered to the irresistible allure of the ‘Dutch Apple Pie Stack,’ where caramelized apples meet a symphony of coconut, cinnamon, and a whimsical touch of candy floss. One pancake bite was like walking through the circus around bonfire night.
If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind, taste-bud-tingling experience, make haste to Mr. Stacks – a place where you can jump down the rabbit hole.
11. Sample Dutch meatballs knows as Bitterballen
One of the must-try Amsterdam snacks that instantly comes to mind is the iconic Bitterballen. These delectable morsels have earned their place as the perfect accompaniment to a cold, crisp beer at local bars. Typically round in shape, although occasionally presented as logs, Bitterballen is a snack that’s as intriguing as it is delicious.
So, what’s the taste sensation like? Picture biting into a Bitterbal, and you’re met with a symphony of flavors reminiscent of deep-fried mushrooms. The first sensation is the satisfying crunch of the crispy exterior, giving way to a luxuriously gooey interior. Traditionally, Bitterballen are filled with a rich stew of beef and gravy, lovingly paired with a dollop of tangy mustard. However, the world of Bitterballen is vast and diverse, offering adventurous souls a wide array of fillings to explore, from cheesy renditions to fish-inspired creations that push the boundaries of culinary imagination.
My own encounter with Bitterballen unfolded at the renowned Amsterdam food haven, Foodhallen. Established in 2014, this indoor food market prides itself on quality and innovation. It was the perfect setting to embark on a Bitterballen adventure.
A busy food spot, with DJ’s filling the echoey halls, I stumbled upon ‘De Ballen Bar,’ an establishment that takes pride in offering seven original Bitterballen flavors. From the traditional Dutch beef Bitterbal paired with pulled pork to the velvety allure of goat cheese, old Dutch cheese, and home-grown parsnip, the options were tantalizing. If you prefer a vegan twist, ‘De Ballenbar’ caters to your cravings with a crispy bite based on wheat flour and soybeans. For those seeking an even more daring experience, there are options like bouillabaisse and Tom kah kai-inspired Bitterballen, inspired by well-filled soups.
As I savored my Bitterballen journey, I found myself leaning towards the meatier varieties, although I couldn’t resist sampling them all, each bite perfectly complemented by an ice-cold beverage. A visit to Amsterdam is simply incomplete without indulging in the rich, crispy, and utterly satisfying world of Bitterballen.
And there you have it – my indulgent journey through 48 unforgettable hours in Amsterdam, where my primary mission was to eat as much traditional Dutch food as possible that this vibrant city had to offer. But then again, what else would you expect from me at this point?
Have you had the pleasure of exploring Amsterdam? I’m eager to hear about your cherished hidden gems and must-do experiences in this enchanting city. Share your insights and recommendations in the comments below—I can’t wait to discover more of Amsterdam’s secrets with you!
