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Planning a long weekend In Amsterdam? This guide shares everything you need to know: how the I Amsterdam City Card works, what’s included (and what’s not), moving around effortlessly, top museums, food finds, and even a couple of great day trips. I’m blending practical tips with personal stories to help you make the most of your visit.
My Netherlands trip included three cities — Utrecht, Nijmegen, and Amsterdam — and of course Amsterdam, the capital and the most visited destination in the country, was a big part of the journey.
Most people travel to the Netherlands for the tulip fields, but during my recent visits I discovered something even more fascinating: former churches turned into gyms, libraries, bars, and even hotels. Yes, actual churches! They instantly made it onto my travel bucket list!
I Amsterdam City Card — What You Get (And What You Don’t)
The I Amsterdam City Card is one of the easiest ways to explore Amsterdam, giving you access to public transport, museums, attractions, and more. Here’s what’s included and what’s not:
✅ What’s Included
- Unlimited travel on all GVB transport — trams, buses, metro, and ferries across Amsterdam (night buses included).
- Free entrance to dozens of museums and attractions: think Rijksmuseum, windmills, botanical gardens, modern art, and more.
- Free entrance to many museums & attractions, including:
- Rijksmuseum (The Master Piece Night Watch by Rembrant is here)
- MOCO Museum
- Molen van Sloten Windmill
- Canal cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic waterways
- Bike rental (usually 24 hours) to explore like a local
- 5D This Is Holland flying simulation over the Netherlands (45 min)
- A’DAM Lookout panoramic city view
- 24-hour bike rental — perfect to explore the city like a local on two wheels.
- Free canal cruise — a great way to see Amsterdam from the water.
❌ What’s Not Included
- Popular attractions like Van Gogh Museum or Anne Frank House — they’re not included in the card, so booking separately is necessary.
- Van Gogh Museum (€20–€22; book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.)
- Anne Frank House (€14–€16; book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.)
- National trains (NS) or regional buses — so trips to other cities or countryside spots require separate transport tickets.
- Transport to Zandam/Zaanse Schans (Wind mills) and other out-of-city attractions
- Airport transport (e.g., train from Schiphol) — if you fly in, plan separate transport! Super easy to get to Amsterdam Central, ticket is 6€ (one way)
- Some premium or extra-cost experiences and workshops -like cooking classes or craft workshops
And yes, some of the links below are affiliate links. If you choose to use them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — Using them helps me keep sharing travel tips like this while supporting my blog!
Why I Fell in Love with the I Amsterdam City Card
With the I amsterdam City Card you get free access to 70+ museums and top attractions: from big names like Rijksmuseum and NEMO Science Museum to modern‑art gems such as Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, beautiful photography exhibitions at Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam, cinematic‑art and architecture at EYE Filmmuseum, even quirky spots like the canal‑house museum Het Grachtenhuis (the Museum of the Canals), and historic gems such as Rembrandt House Museum or Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam botanical gardens.
More Than Museums: Transport, Tours, and Fun
The card doesn’t stop at museums. You also get unlimited GVB public transport within Amsterdam (tram, metro, bus, ferry), a free canal cruise, and a 24-hour bike rental, perfect for exploring the city like a local. Family-friendly and relaxing options include ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo and the peaceful greenhouses at Hortus Botanicus.
Explore Beyond the City
The I Amsterdam Card also opens the door to regional attractions. Visit the historic windmills and heritage village at Zaanse Schans, explore medieval castles like Muiderslot Castle, or check out charming cultural museums in nearby towns such as Haarlem or Laren.
The Bottom Line
From art and history to science, nature, local heritage, boats, and bikes, the I Amsterdam City Card covers a huge variety of experiences. It offers flexibility, convenience, and great value, making it perfect for travelers looking to explore Amsterdam widely and efficiently.
Beyond museums, the card gives you unlimited GVB transport (tram, metro, bus, ferry), a free canal cruise, a 24 h bike rental, and entry to fun and family‑friendly places like ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo or the peaceful greenhouses at Hortus Botanicus.
In short — from art and history to science, nature, local heritage, boats, bikes and more — the I amsterdam Card opens up a huge variety of experiences, giving you flexibility, convenience, and a great value if you plan to explore widely.
City Card Prices (2025)
Depending on how long you stay:
| Duration | Price (EUR) | Cost per day* |
|---|---|---|
| 24 hrs | €65 | €65.00 |
| 48 hrs | €90 | €45.00 |
| 72 hrs | €110 | ≈ €36.60 |
| 96 hrs | €125 | ≈ €31.25 |
| 120 hrs | €135 | ≈ €27.00 |
Because of what’s included (transport + cruise + bike + many museums), I found the 72‑hour card hits a sweet spot for my stay in Amsterdam.
Friendly Tip Before You Go: Mind the bikers!
Before we dive in — a friendly warning: mind the bikers! They kind of own the city. They’re not aggressive, but biking in the Netherlands is a way of life — almost a secret art. Stay alert, respect the lanes, and enjoy watching this fascinating culture in action.
Top Museums & Highlights (My Picks)
1. Van Gogh Museum
Yes, I paid separately — but it was absolutely worth it.
While most people visit for Sunflowers, I went hoping to see “The room,” but I ended up falling in love with Irises instead. Simply Beautiful. There was also a temporary exhibition “The Roulins” — very worthwhile.
If you visit:
- Book online with time slot — no walk-up tickets, and they sell out quickly.
- Cafeteria tip: try the mango‑citrus cake shaped like a sunflower (cute!). Cappuccino: not so good and too strong for my taste
- Family friendly / kids friendly — the museum has interactive zones.
- Don’t miss the sunflower painting replica that you can touch!
- I got the first slot at 9:00 a.m. — off-season that was perfect (less crowd).
Special shoutout to the staff: especially Mardonio from Lima — friendly, helpful, checking tickets and giving luggage info (no carry on bags are allowed).
2. Rijksmuseum
One of my favourite moments ever: seeing The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn — and even more: witnessing the live restoration! Watching specialists remove old varnish layer by layer — science and art together — was mind-blowing.
The museum entrance is covered by the City Card, so no need to pay extra.
Other Activities & Unique Experiences I Loved
3. 5D – THIS IS HOLLAND Experience
This is one of the most impressive attractions included with the City Card. You “fly” over the Netherlands in a motion-simulated theatre — with wind, mist, scent — you literally feel like you’re gliding above tulip fields, dikes, coastlines, cities. It gave me goosebumps. 100% recommended- I have taken the one in Helsinki and this is another level!
Because it’s in the City Card package, it saves you extra money — great for value-seekers!
4. Paint Your Own Delft‑Blue Tile Workshop
This 75-minute workshop takes place in central Amsterdam (10 min by walking from Amsterdam Central) and is perfect for anyone looking for a creative break during their trip. You don’t need any prior art experience — just curiosity, patience, and time. An instructor guides you step-by-step as you paint your own Delft-style blue-and-white tile. You can choose a traditional motif such as windmills or tulips, or create your own unique design.*
Note that we use the same traditional technique as in history, which means the designs can be copied! In fact, creating the design itself can take quite a bit of time. If you’d like to make your own custom design, I recommend preparing it in advance — otherwise you may find yourself choosing from too many ideas!
All materials are included: the tile, brushes, Delft-blue paint, and an apron to keep clean. At the end, you’ll take your finished tile home, making it one of the most personal souvenirs you can bring back from Amsterdam. Most workshops also include a small snack break with coffee or tea, sometimes even stroopwafels, creating a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
The price is usually around €22.50, depending on the provider and season. This activity is great for couples, friends, families, solo travellers, and even for kids — especially if you’ve had a busy day of museums and want something slower and more hands-on.
*This activity is not included in the City Card, you need to book it separetely
5. Stroopwafel‑Making Workshop — Traditional Dutch Syrup Waffle
This workshop lasts about 45 minutes and teaches you how to make an authentic Dutch stroopwafel from scratch. You’ll start by preparing the dough, then bake it on a traditional waffle iron, and finally fill it with warm caramel syrup (the famous stroop). It’s simple, fun, and surprisingly satisfying.
You also have the option to decorate your stroopwafel. As our instructors explained, this isn’t the traditional way Dutch people eat them — but it’s a fun little twist for tourists and a cute way to personalize your creation.
The workshop includes all ingredients and supplies (apron, gloves, boxes, and stickers to take them home), guidance from a local host, and usually coffee or tea during the session. You’ll make two XL stroopwafels — one to enjoy warm and fresh (The Dutch way), and one to take with you (here you decide to make the original or add soome extra clolurs and flavours). At around €24.50 per person, it’s a delicious and memorable way to experience Dutch culinary culture.
This activity is suitable for all ages and perfect whether you’re traveling solo or in a group. Even if you’ve never baked before, the process is easy, guided, and a lot of fun.
*This activity is not included in the City Card
Book your spot here and enjoy a little piece of Dutch culture for yourself!
6. Zaandam
Zaandam is a small town famous online for its “Lego houses” — colorful, stacked-looking buildings. There isn’t much to see, but it’s photogenic and a great stop for pictures or lunch before heading to the windmills.
7. Zaanse Schans (Windmills)
From Zaandam, it’s an easy trip to Zaanse Schans, where traditional Dutch heritage comes to life:
- Visit historic windmills (entrance included with City Card)
- Watch the cheese-making process and taste varieties
- Explore a wooden clogs workshop
- Stroll past charming green wooden houses
It’s picturesque, educational, and one of the most iconic Dutch experiences.
I like to be honest in my posts:
I actually arrived late and missed quite a bit (a lot, to be honest!). But no worries… one day I’ll go back with my kids and husband to experience everything properly! Still, I did get the chance to explore the main area during an amazing sunset, visit the cheese factory, and even chat with one of the wooden clog makers.
What I can say is this: Zaanse Schans is absolutely one of those places where booking a guided tour is 100% worth it. You learn so much more about the windmills, the cheese-making process, and the famous wooden clog tradition. A guide brings the stories, craftsmanship, and history to life in a way that’s hard to get on your own.
Secure your spot on a guided tour here and get the full Zaanse Schans experience
8. A’DAM LOOKOUT & Swing (Over The Edge)
The A’DAM LOOKOUT offers a 360° panoramic view of Amsterdam from the top of the tower (Free* entry with the City Card).
For adrenaline lovers, the Over The Edge swing is the highest swing in Europe:
- Height: 100 meters above the ground
- Price: €15 for 2 people (€7.50 each)
- Duration: ~1 minute
Short but unforgettable — swinging over Amsterdam with the wind in your face is a thrill. Other experiences are available for extra cost, but the swing alone is worth it.
9. Train in a Church!- Gym Church Saints & Stars (Oud-Zuid)
One of the most unique fitness experiences in Amsterdam: Gym Church Saints & Stars, located in the beautiful Oud-Zuid neighborhood.
Here you can join an open gym session for €20, and yes — you literally train inside a former church.
Inspiring atmosphere with high ceilings and stained-glass windows
Basic equipment and enough space even during busy hours
Really nice, luxury-feeling showers
Friendly staff and a motivating vibe (church acoustics make workouts feel different!)
If you like combining travel with fitness or unique spaces, this is a fun and memorable stop. And I must say — working out in a church definitely felt epic!
For me this was a travel bucket list and I’m glad I did it!
10. Bunk Hotel — Sleep Inside a Former Church
We stayed at Bunk Hotel, a truly unique place built inside a former church. It’s a beautiful mix of modern, cozy design and historic architecture — high ceilings, stained-glass details, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
Just one important clarification:
- It is a hotel,
- but the sleeping pods are ‘hostel-style’, and the showers/toilets are shared. Expect a lot of noise as people come and go! No kitchen, no laundry- it’s a hotel!
- The common areas are super cool! We loved the studio! Felt like old but fancy library- the hotel staff organizes meetings here!
- You can also book private rooms (below in the picture) as well for more privacy and less noise!
- The restaurant area also looks very cozy. We didn’t have time to eat there this time, but the cappuccino was a great option — especially in the mornings. It even comes with a little cookie!
If you’re open to a hybrid hotel–hostel concept and love original, creative, UNIQUE stays, this is an UNFORGETTABLE.
The location
The location is genuinely fantastic — just a 10-minute walk to Metro Station Noorderpark (One stop after Amsterdam Central), and about the same distance to A’DAM Lookout, making it incredibly easy to move around the city. The neighborhood itself is peaceful and safe, with a small local market nearby and several cozy restaurants and cafés perfect for a relaxed breakfast or dinner. If you like staying somewhere stylish, unique, and well-connected (yet away from the busiest part of the city), Bunk Hotel is definetely a great choice.
Our experience
We had so much fun — and honestly, sleeping in pods inside a former church in Amsterdam is something WE WILL NEVER FORGET! It’s one of those unique, memorable experiences that stays with you long after the trip is over.
Where to Eat in Amsterdam — Vegan-Friendly Gems I Would’ve Never Found Alone
Just a quick clarification before we dive in: during this trip, I was traveling with a vegan friend — no dairy, no fish, no animal products at all. Because of that, she chose most of the places where we ate. And honestly? She took me to neighborhoods and cafés I would’ve never discovered on my own.
Some of these spots were completely vegan — and surprisingly delicious even for someone who isn’t vegan. So here are my favorite places we tried (vegan or vegan-friendly), and why they deserve a spot on your list too:
- Cafe de Cauvel- fully vegan, great atmosphere
- Oude Kerk (Try the Traditional Apple Pie*)
- Kende K -All Vegan (their spicy mushroom burger was a hit)
- Margo’s- All Vegan (The Matcha cookie is sooooo good, very soft- to die for! I’d go back for another Palestinian Danish just becuase they support the right side of history!)
- Persian Food- cozy place with good vegetarian/vegan options
🚲 Getting Around Amsterdam — Easy, Smooth & Fun
The City Card makes moving around Amsterdam incredibly simple. With it, you can:
- Hop on trams, metro, buses, or ferries — all included with unlimited rides. Just remember to tap in and tap out.
- Enjoy a free canal cruise — an absolute must for first-time visitors.
- Rent a bike for 24 hours — the best way to explore Amsterdam like a local.
Transport Tips:
- Always tap in AND tap out. If you forget to tap out, you may get stuck at exit gates.
- If you’re using the digital City Card, keep your phone charged! No battery = no access.
- Public transport is extremely reliable and safe — ferries especially are a fun, free way to cross the IJ River.
✨ Final Thoughts — Why Amsterdam Is So Much More Than You Expect
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a “classic” picture of Amsterdam in your mind. But the city is so much more than the stereotypes. It’s vibrant, artistic, surprisingly peaceful, safe and full of hidden gems — from windmills and canals to vegan cafés, immersive museums, and even gym-churches.
Amsterdam has a way of mixing history with creativity in the coolest ways. Just watching people bike by (yes, without helmets!) feels like you’re witnessing a unique local rhythm.
With the I Amsterdam City Card, a bit of planning, and an open mindset, you can experience so many sides of the city in just a few days.
It doesn’t matter if you’re into museums, slow travel, photography, food, nature, architecture, or offbeat adventures — Amsterdam welcomes everyone with open arms.
Pack your bags, grab your City Card, and enjoy every moment in this beautiful city!
Getting Around Amsterdam — Easy & Fun
Amsterdam is compact, beautiful, and extremely easy to navigate. With the City Card, transport is sorted:
- Tram, bus, metro, ferry — all covered with the card. Just tap in and tap out.
- Canal boat tour — free, included. Great way to see the city from water.
- Bike rental — 24 h included. Cycling around the city is a must.
Tips for smooth transport:
- Always check in/out on trams, metro, ferries — if you forget to tap out, you might get stuck at exit gates.
- Digital City Card (app) works great — but make sure your phone is charged.
Biking culture: Amsterdam lives by bike. Expect bikes EVERYWHERE. It’s part of the charm.
