We often get asked what to do if you only have a few hours in the city. And while we’re big fans of hidden gems, we know that for a layover, it’s sometimes best to focus on a few highlights – with a twist. Here’s our pick of 7 experiences that capture the best of Amsterdam, from iconic sights to some special local spots that give you a real feel for the city. Perfect for a short but memorable stay!
- Getting from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s City Center Quickly
- 1. A Stroll Around the Canal Belt and Jordaan
- 2. Hop on a Canal Cruise with a Local Twist
- 3. Albert Cuyp Market: A Taste of Local Life
- 4. Visit Prinseneiland
- 5. Visit the Rijksmuseum Gardens for Free
- 6. Chill at Vondelpark
- 7. Brunch or Dine with a View at A’DAM Tower
- Have More Time? Visit Our Beautiful Museums
- Pro Tip: Get Around Quickly with the Public Transport Pass
- Unlock Amsterdam’s Best Spots with Our Exclusive Hotspot Map!
- FAQ – Layover Amsterdam
- Even More Insider Tips
Getting from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s City Center Quickly
If you’re on a layover, every minute counts, and luckily, getting from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s city center is quick and easy. Schiphol has a convenient train station located directly below the airport, and direct trains depart every few minutes to Amsterdam Centraal Station, taking just 15-20 minutes. Simply follow the signs to the train platform at Schiphol.
Alternatively, you can enjoy unlimited travel on Amsterdam’s trams, buses, and metro with the GVB All-In-One Public Transport Card. This way so you can move around the city center efficiently once you arrive. Get your tickets before here:
Note: The all-in-one card does not cover the train between Schiphol and the city center, so you need both (all-in-one tickets and a train ticket Schiphol-Amsterdam).
1. A Stroll Around the Canal Belt and Jordaan
Start with a quick stroll through Amsterdam’s iconic canal belt. From Centraal Station, head toward the Jordaan neighborhood. Here, you’ll get that amazing Amsterdam feel – the narrow houses, charming bridges, and cozy cafes. If you’re a fan of beautiful scenery and snapshots, the canals and beautiful streets of the Jordaan are unmissable. Definitely visit streets like: Brouwersgracht, Bloemgracht, Egelantiersgracht and Prinsengracht.
TIP >> Be sure to check out our blog post about the prettiest streets in Amsterdam and download our free food guide by neighborhood to enjoy the best local eats (The Jordaan has a lot of great places)!
2. Hop on a Canal Cruise with a Local Twist
A canal cruise might sound like a classic tourist activity, but it’s also one of the best ways to see the city from a unique angle – especially if you’re short on time. Want to have a more unique experience than a regular tourist boat? Look for beautiful salon boats that you can book for group cruises, as they provide a unique and intimate experience on authentic vessels, complete with comfortable seating and personalized service, making your tour feel special and more connected to the charm of the city. Most tours are about an hour, making it ideal for a layover.
We’ve selected some of our favorite boat tours below for you to check out!
3. Albert Cuyp Market: A Taste of Local Life
If you want to dive into the local food scene, head to the Albert Cuyp Market. This bustling street market in the De Pijp neighborhood is packed with fresh produce, Dutch snacks, and international flavors. Your visit isn’t complete without grabbing a fresh stroopwafel (Dutch caramel waffle) made right in front of you at Rudi’s. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a classic broodje haring (herring sandwich). The market vibe here is relaxed and friendly – it’s where locals do their shopping and catch up with friends for a coffee.
4. Visit Prinseneiland
This is actually one of our favorite parts of the city. It’s a 15-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station to this small, picturesque island that feels worlds away from the busy city center. You’ll find rows and rows of charming, historic warehouses that once stored ship supplies, cute little streets, and wooden drawbridges. The best part? There is almost no one! It’s an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy a different side of Amsterdam.
5. Visit the Rijksmuseum Gardens for Free
If you’re an art lover but don’t have time for a full museum visit, go to the gardens of the Rijksmuseum. These free, beautiful gardens have outdoor sculptures and art pieces, so you can get a taste of Dutch art without a ticket. The gardens are lovely on their own, with colorful flowers, neat lawns, and small paths. You can also walk all around the Rijksmuseum to admire the building from every side – it’s stunning! Grab a coffee to go and relax on a bench to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
6. Chill at Vondelpark
Need a breather? The Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s largest city park and a favorite among locals. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you might find street performers or small festivals happening here. Otherwise, it’s just a peaceful place to sit by the water or take a short stroll. Grab a coffee or snack from one of the nearby cafes, find a spot, and soak up some of the Dutch lifestyle.
7. Brunch or Dine with a View at A’DAM Tower
For a final, memorable view of Amsterdam, catch the ferry (free of charge) from Centraal Station to the A’DAM Tower in Amsterdam Noord. For a memorable brunch, head to Restaurant Moon on the 19th floor, an amazing restaurant that offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. Enjoy your brunch as the restaurant slowly rotates – how cool is that?
If you’re stopping by later in the day, go up to M’ADAM on the 20th floor for dinner, cocktails, and a live DJ. The menu is packed with delicious, Asian-inspired dishes and creative cocktails. It’s the ideal spot to unwind, take in the city’s skyline, and enjoy a great meal before catching your next flight!
Have More Time? Visit Our Beautiful Museums
If your layover is long enough to explore Amsterdam’s art and history in depth, the city’s museum offerings are truly exceptional. Besides visiting the Rijksmuseum & Anne Frank House, here are our top recommendations:
Pro Tip: Get Around Quickly with the Public Transport Pass
We mentioned it already in the beginning of this post but, if you’re on a layover in Amsterdam and short on time, the Public Transport All-In-One-Card is your best choice. While Amsterdam is a city perfect for walking, this pass helps you make the most of every minute, allowing you to hop on trams, buses, metros, and ferries with ease. You’ll save time moving quickly between iconic spots without having to buy separate tickets.
*Note that this pass doesn’t cover travel to and from Schiphol Airport, but it’s ideal for zipping around the city itself and maximizing your layover adventure!
Unlock Amsterdam’s Best Spots with Our Exclusive Hotspot Map!
Want to make the most of your time in Amsterdam? Our exclusive Amsterdam Hotspot Map is your ultimate guide! With 400+ handpicked spots, you’ll easily find the best places to eat, drink, relax, and explore – all ready to be added to your Google Maps. From cozy cafes to hidden gems for special occasions, our map has it all. Say goodbye to endless searching and let us help you discover the city like a local.
FAQ – Layover Amsterdam
Even More Insider Tips
As locals, we’re excited to share our best tips with you—after all, who better to ask? You might also enjoy reading:
