Amsterdam in 2 days: must-see highlights and local gems

Starting with a 20-minute drive to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans, this outdoor conservation area is situated on the banks of the River Zaan and is home to original 18th and 19th-century architecture, including several still-functioning windmills and wooden houses. Watch live demonstrations of craftsmen at work, including a clog maker crafting the famous wooden shoes of the Netherlands. Enjoy free time to explore the village and visit a windmill before traveling through picturesque Polder-landscapes (reclaimed land from the water).Set off on the journey of a lifetime, with an iconic Amsterdam windmill tour. These towering symbols of Dutch ingenuity stand proudly against the landscape. As you enter into the old-world charm of Zaanse Schans, you can help but love the charm. Each windmill is a testament to a time in the past when they powered the Dutch economy.Swap the bustling cityscape for the serene rural charm as you board the bus from Amsterdam to Volendam. As quaint wooden houses and traditional windmills pass by, you’ll get to experience the enduring beauty of the Netherlands. When you reach Volendam, you’ll be able to try traditional Dutch cheese, stroll along the harbor, or take a photo of classic buildings.Finally, the tour will stop in the beautiful seaside village of Volendam. A traditional village with a bustling harbor, it has been a major tourist attraction since as early as 1875. People come from all over the world to explore Volendam's traditional buildings and learn about local culture and historic Dutch costumes. A guide will take you on a short walk through the oldest parts of the village, exploring a labyrinth of twists and turns to sites such as St. Vincent’s Church, the wooden Stolphoevekerk, and the Visafslag (Fish Auction). You can also enjoy a walk on top of the Dike with a stunning view of IJssel Lake.

This incredible experience will have you soaring over iconic sights such as its tulip fields and windmills. Special effects like mist and wind will ensure you see and feel the Netherlands like never before. Conveniently located in Amsterdam.The total experience lasts an hour and contains four shows, including a 9-minute flight. This must-see attraction will give you a new perspective of and information about the Netherlands while providing a great time for the whole family.

Moco Museum Amsterdam is a leading museum dedicated to making art accessible to everyone, located in the heart of the Museumplein.  Discover an eye-opening and inspiring collection of modern, contemporary, digital and immersive art, featuring world-famous artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama and more. Explore over 100 bold artworks by over 35 visionary artists, spanning paintings, sculptures, installations and immersive digital spaces. Every ticket includes a free audio guide in 6 languages so you can fully experience the stories behind the art. Looking for unforgettable things to do in Amsterdam? Moco Museum is one of the coolest art museums. Don’t miss this truly unmissable art experience when in Amsterdam. 

The Heineken Experience in Amsterdam is the beer giant's first built brewery. Don't miss the chance to learn all about the beer that was born in Amsterdam and get a taste of the freshly-brewed tipple.In the heart of Amsterdam lies the Heineken Brewery, a place where tradition meets innovation. With your Heineken Experience tickets, you can explore the brewing process up close and an get insight into their process. See, touch, and taste what goes into making the world's favorite beer. From hops to the final bottle, the Heineken Amsterdam tour is an engaging, educational, and tasty experience!Hear the story of Heineken's heritage, discover its unique brewing process, and be the first to hear about future plans and innovations. The tour will end in the tasting room where you'll get to enjoy two free glasses of Heineken!

Get your cameras at the ready as you pass the likes of Anne Frank's House, the Westerkerk, traditional canal houses from the Golden Age plus loads more, it's not only a great introduction to the city but a relaxing one.It is also a much better when there is some context behind all the sights and attractions you're looking at, so thats why 100 Highlights Cruise provides an audio guide in 19 languages.The available languages are: English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, Turkish, Russian, Japanese, Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Korean, Indonesian, Thai, Hindi and Hebrew.

Step into the spotlight at Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, the world’s greatest wax museum!Take centre stage on the red carpet alongside global superstars like Zendaya and Harry Styles and feel the glitz and glam of a true A-lister.Snap the ultimate selfie with legend Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson or join MARVEL’s Avengers with a power pose.Dive into Dutch culture and history with Masters from the Golden Age or today’s YouTubers, DJs, football stars or the Princess of Orange.Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience to get up close and personal with your favourite icons in wax form! Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is waiting to roll out the red carpet just for you.