24 hours in Amsterdam

You've arrived in Amsterdam, thrown your bags in a locker and are ready to go. But before you jump straight into a canal boat or start walking towards Dam Square, check out our alternative Amsterdam itinerary!

10AM // A damn good view!

Cross the river to the city’s dynamic north

Starting at Central Station, take free ferry 901 across the river IJ to A’DAM Lookout. Its sky deck has the most amazing 360° view over Amsterdam and a giant swing ride over the edge of the building. Only for the brave.

Next door, you'll see the EYE museum, a fave of film-lovers. Its Panorama section is free to enter and contains cinema paraphernalia, mini-film booths and a green screen where you can record and watch your own clip!

A photo posted by A'DAM LOOKOUT (@adamlookout) on Jul 8, 2016 at 7:20am PDT

1PM // Industrial intrigue

Have lunch at an alternative hotspot

Remain in North Amsterdam to discover one of the city's most up-and-coming and unique areas. The old dockyard known as NDSM subtly conceals artists' workshops, boutiques and eateries within its industrial shell.

If you're into urban photography or fancy grabbing lunch in a peculiar setting, this is the place to be. Opt for crater-covered Pllek or Noorderlicht cultural café. Both easygoing venues have outdoor seating near the water.

A photo posted by Pllek (@pllek_amsterdam) on Mar 17, 2016 at 7:19am PDT

3PM // Push the boat out

Find your own way along the canals

Return to Amsterdam city center to take a cruise between its 17th century row houses and bridges. You’ll see canal tours all over Amsterdam but these are nowhere near as fun as hiring out your own boat, pedalo or canoe.

If you’re with a group, it won’t cost too much to set off in your own private boat once you’ve split the cost. I amsterdam has an extensive list of rental options.

A video posted by Interrail.eu (@interraileu) on Jun 19, 2015 at 2:17pm PDT

6PM // Park life

Take a break where nature meets culture

Not far from the city centre, spend the late afternoon in Westerpark: a calm, green space where you can feast on a picnic, splash your feet in the park's pond or check out the local bars or restaurants.

Cultural venue Westergasfabriek, right within the park, is home to trendy pop-up shops and markets, a brewery, jazz café and cinema. Find something in Westerpark to keep you relaxed or entertained!

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Een bericht gedeeld door Kim1975 (@kim1975) op 30 Apr 2019 om 11:44 (PDT)

10PM // A night of nostalgia

Game yourself silly at TonTon Club

As the sun sets, there's no need to stray from Westergasfabriek. For a blast of nostalgia, end your day in the TonTon Club. Doubling up as a games hall, this popular bar is sure to take you back to your childhood days!

Enjoy beers and battles with arcade games, pinball machines and dance pads. There’s a second TonTon in the city center if you’re looking for less innocent entertainment in the areas around the Red Light District.