I’ve been to Amsterdam about 5 or 6 times so far. It’s canals, liberal lifestyle, and a rich culture keep beckoning me back from across the North Sea. If you find yourself with just two days to explore this vibrant city, fear not! I was most recently there in June 2023 for just two days, and in this blog are my most recent recommendations.

I’ve crafted an itinerary that combines the best of Amsterdam’s coffee scene, mouthwatering frittes, intriguing museums like Our House museum of electronic music, and breathtaking views from the iconic A’dam Tower. Get ready to wonder the banks of enchanting canals, admire colorful flowers, and feel the pulsating beat of the city. Grab a cup of coffee, and get ready for an exciting two-day adventure in the heart of Amsterdam!

Coffee, flowers, and delicious frittes

Luuk’s Coffee – Fuel up in style

Kickstart your Amsterdam adventure at Luuk’s Coffee Noordermarkt, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Jordaan neighborhood. Get your caffeine fix with a playful twistβ€”whether it’s a hipster flat white, silky latte, a velvety cappuccino, or an indulgent mocha. Let the aroma lift your spirits as you dive into a freshly baked treat and savor every delightful sip. The do oatmilk too. Find them on Instagram.

Good Beans – F*cking strong coffee

Another great spot for coffee is Good Beans. Perhaps sip on a second cup of joe, if you’ve already been to Luuk’s Coffee. But beware, it’s f*cking strong coffee according to the sign outside – certainly gave me the buzz I needed for a day of exploring! They also have oat milk. Find them on Instagram.

Floating Flower Market – A tulip lovers paradise

Prepare to be dazzled by Amsterdam’s floating flower market, where vibrant blooms take center stage. Stroll along the canal and immerse yourself in a sea of colorful tulips, fragrant roses, and exotic plants. Pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers or indulge in some unique Dutch flower bulbs to bring a piece of Amsterdam’s beauty home with you.

According to claims.co.uk, you are allowed to bring bulbs, corms, tubers and rhizomes (but not potatoes) weighing in total up to 2kg per person, into the UK. You will need a phytosanitary certificate or a licenceif you wish to bring more than 2kg back. Read more here, or visit gov.uk for further details.

Frittes Frenzy – Fuel for the soul:

Satisfy your cravings with some irresistible Dutch frittes! Seek out a local frittes stand, and prepare yourself for a taste sensation. Sink your teeth into these crispy golden delights, accompanied by an array of tantalizing sauces. Whether you like them plain or with a twist, frittes are the perfect fuel for an unforgettable day in Amsterdam.

I’d personally recommend Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminchx. The truffle sauce is to die for and worth the extra euros!

Epic beats, spectacular views, and Europes highest swing

Our House Electronic Music Museum – Unleash your inner raver

Get ready to dance to the beat at the Our House electronic music Museum. As a lover of EDM myself, this was one not to be missed. Here you’ll explore the history and evolution of electronic music through interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and mind-blowing soundscapes. Discover the iconic DJs, legendary venues, and groundbreaking moments that shaped the global electronic music scene. Fancy yourself as a DJ? Have a go on the turntables or play out a tune on the world’s largest analogue sequencer. The exhibition hosts were also really engaging. It’s everything I’d expect a dance music museum to be and more!

A’dam Lookout – Breathtaking views and playful thrills

It’s time to get high… and no not like that (although no judgement here!). Take your adventure to new heights at the A’dam Lookout. Ascend this architectural marvel and be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of Amsterdam. First feel the rush of the ‘party’ elevator, and let your playful spirit soar as you admire the city’s skyline from the highest point in the city.

What’s more, the lookout also boasts Europes highest swing. Just looking at it, it doesn’t actually look that scary, but once you’re on it it’s pretty exhilerating! It took a lot for me to look down at the view! It’s a breathtaking experience that will leave you buzzing and wanted to go on it again – highly recommended!

There is also a bar and revolving restaurant (which I can’t vouch for as I didn’t try a drink or the food here) and a small room with information about the tower, which is also worth a watch! It was interesting learning about how the tower was designed and the thought process behind it and it’s purpose – it’s a great example of how Amsterdam fully embraces and supports the rich creativity and culture of it’s community.

Both the EDM Museum and A’dam Lookout can be booked together as one ticket here for €25pp.

Finally, just wonder the streets and soak up the atmosphere

Sometimes you’ve gotta let go of trying to cram everything in. This is something I’m getting better at. There is enough to see by just wondering the streets, from window shopping the galleries and little independent shops with a coffee in hand, to admiring the curiosuly wonky buildings that line the canal banks. Take a slow stroll and people watch. Double take as a cyclist tries to balance a painting while also looking at their phone (I think the Ducth are also cycling magicians). Marvel at the magic mushroom selections in shop windows, which is pretty surreal! Being in Amsterdam feels like stepping into a different world; a daydreamy concotion of less rules and more fun and the freedom to be your true self without judgement. So definitely find some time to just BE in Amsterdam, between the museum visits and instagram photos.

To conclude…

In just two days, Amsterdam unveils its vibrant soul, offering a whirlwind of coffee, flowers, frittes, music, and breathtaking views. The places mentioned in this post are just some of the highlights that will leave you with unforgettable memories. So, embrace the playful spirit of Amsterdam, let your curiosity guide you, and dive into an adventure that will make your heart race and your soul dance to the beat of this mesmerizing city!

I wish you fabulous adventures in wonderdam!


Thanks for stopping by, have a beautiful day

~ Faine