Lorelei, Heidi, Anneleis, Cassie & Ron’s one day in Amsterdam to see the highlights – Van Gogh Museum and a canal cruise!

Amsterdam

One Day in Amsterdam: Activities

LOVED AMSTERDAM! It was beautiful. Sadly we only had one day in Amsterdam as we were only passing through.

Canal cruise

We took a boat tour down the canal and saw so much – beautiful houses, the bay area, the train station and of course the Red Light district. If you only have one day in Amsterdam, this was a great way to see the highlights of the city in a short time. It was rainy, and fortunately they have covered tops, however, if you get a little motion sick, do not go on a stormy day. I was definitely struggling at the end without any meds.

I do not remember the canal cruise company but if you go to the Van Gogh museum, there are many tents of different companies where you can look at their cruises and see which one is right for you. We purchased our tickets at the tent and walked to the river spot where the boat was docked.

Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh’s Irises and Roses

Absolutely go to the Van Gogh Museum if you only have one day in Amsterdam! This was a self-guided tour with the handheld devices you could listen to in many languages. The pieces were incredible to see – all the originals of the cheesy prints you bought to hang in your room. The building itself is very striking and contemporary compared to the older surroundings, if you like that sort of thing. We got there first thing in the morning when the lines weren’t bad, but by the time we left, the line was zigzagging all over the place. We bought tickets in advance and that helped us get through the line quicker.

Van Gogh Museum

Iconic I Amsterdam sign – next to the Van Gogh Museum

Unfortunately we didn’t get to the Anne Frank House early enough to see it, but it was recommended to us, so you should definitely go!

Hotel

Ibis Schipol

We stayed at the Ibis Schipol next to the airport. The Ibis is a standard chain in Europe; it’s clean and efficient. The rooms are kind of small and basic compared to American standards. However their breakfast was very good and it was right next to a major bus stop to get us into the city, so that was very convenient.

Transportation

We got into the city via bus and then walked everywhere within the city.

One Day in Amsterdam Travel Tips:

Marijuana Laws – If you get marijuana products, do NOT try and take it across country lines. Our bus got stopped at the border and we were all lined up and sniffed by dogs and all of our luggage brought out to get checked. One traveler did have a cookie but since he told the police he had it, they didn’t arrest him.

Language – Most people spoke English and were very nice.

Weather – I suggest the summer is the best time to visit. Bring a jacket and rain coat; we were there in May and definitely needed them.