How to Spend 24 Hours in Amsterdam

If you close your eyes and think of Amsterdam, you’re probably picturing exactly what we’re picturing. The Red Light District, no-coffee “cafés”, and an array of tourists dressed in garish “lads on tour” attire. If you haven’t already visited, you’d be forgiven for thinking that’s what it is in totality. It can’t be helped, especially given how Amsterdam is pitched across the shifting social media landscape. However, we think the Netherlands’ capital city deserves a much better public perception than it has. As much as we love those more outlandish parts of the city, Amsterdam is more than capable of providing you with an unforgettable trip that doesn’t revolve around simply “hitting the town.”

PAUSE recently stopped off in the “Venice of the North” for a quick trip, and we thought it would be good of us to pull back the curtain on what we got up to and get you guys in the know. Take a day trip with us, because here’s how to spend just 24 hours in Amsterdam – the wholesome way.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Got the early flight in? Waiting for check-in? Depending on what time you arrive to Amsterdam, a dip into the harbour at Marineterrein might be for you. Sitting pretty at an inconspicuous spot at a former Navy base on the urban island of Kattenburg, Marineterrein has the perfect amount of quiet you need to start your trip off right. Whether you want to lay back and catch some sun on the extensive decking or get in and swim, it’s a great (and free) place to hang out with a cup of coffee in hand. This refreshing swim at a local favourite will definitely get you out of your early morning slump, all the while putting you in and amongst the people of ‘Dam.

PHOTO CREDIT: Marineterrein

What better thing than a bagel to put those post-swim rumbles to bed? We hit Flo’s Deli twice during our brief stint in Amsterdam, and we didn’t regret it one bit. Fresh juices, baked goods, and any type of bagel your heart desires, Flo’s Deli is situated to the north of the popular De Pijp area, meaning it can squeeze right into even the busiest itinerary. Insider tip, try out “The Jerry” on an everything bagel, the smoked salmon comes stacked.

PHOTO CREDIT: Flo’s Deli

You’ve refuelled and dipped into the famous waters of Amsterdam, now it’s time for a bit of culture. Speaking from experience, there aren’t many better places to get lost for a few hours than the Rijksmuseum. Spotlighting renowned Dutch artists and boasting over 1,000 painters in its collection, the Rijksmuseum covers all the bases. From the Renaissance period and 19th century Impressionist painters to the famous works of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, the never-ending exhibitions give you a full-scale run-down of the Netherland’s rich artistic history. In the midst of the beating heart of summer, it’s also a good spot to cool down and bathe in the AC. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Rijksmuseum 

What’s a holiday without a little retail therapy? Of course, we were always going to seek out some of the best vintage clothing Amsterdam had to offer, and trust us, there was a lot. Depending on what you’re into, Amsterdam caters to pretty much everyone, with high-fashion grails being just as available as streetwear gems and bargain kilo sales. Some standout storefronts we picked out include Millesime Vintage Collection Est.1997, which had a lovely flow to both the reasonably-priced pieces and store layout, whilst AVC elevated proceedings with some high-fashion hits. Think archive Roberto Cavalli, Dolce&Gabbana, and Prada by the dozens. Lastly, Archive 1906 came through with one of the most extensive ranges of designer sunglasses we’ve seen, and that alone is a reason to visit.

PHOTO CREDIT: Rijksmuseum 

Bolenius Rembrandtpark in Amsterdam is one of the leading lights of Dutch cuisine, and if you’re going to do a day in Amsterdam, you may as well dine in style. Despite costing a pretty penny, the eco-centric restaurant reaches the lofty heights of its price tag, championing a micro-seasonal approach that places vegetables and fruit at the forefront of dishes. Choosing between the two “Pure Plant” and “Dutch” set menus, visitors can expect to find themselves in a cosy environment that mirrors its fresh and clean-cut approach to food. Relocating to Rembrandtpark, you can kill two birds with one stone for this dinner, visiting one of the capital’s most popular outdoor destinations.

PHOTO CREDIT: Bolenius Rembrandtpark

For the evening festivities, we’re getting back on the water with a luxury canal cruise with a few all-inclusive drinks to match. A smooth hour long ride down the winding canals of Amsterdam was a perfect way to take in the sun setting over the horizon line, with our route taking us past various famous hotspots. A knowledgable guide talked us through what we needed to know, detailing the history behind landmarks areas like the Amsterdam Red Light District, the Magere Brug “Skinny Bridge,” the Amsterdam Flower Market and more. It maybe ever so touristy, but it’s well worth your time, especially the bottomless drinks.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images 

Last but certainly not least, Pulitzer’s Bar was the place to cap off an ideal day of exploring. The moody low-light bar sets the tone for a chilled finale to the night, overlooking two of Amsterdam’s most picturesque canals – Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht – whilst a prime position in the core of the city’s UNESCO-listed centre offers up an elevated and culturally enriching experience. Being embraced by the candle-lit corners of the Art Deco-style space, Pulitzer’s tasteful approach shines through as pleasant aromas fill the air and attentive staff keep your waters filled and the cocktails flowing. Look out for the knowledgable Rico, he told us everything we needed to know about the cocktail list, even going off menu with a special request. Walls lined with iconic Dutch artwork keep you enveloped in the world Pulitzer’s has shaped, maintaining that distinctive feeling of class. PAUSE firmly recommends to try the fan-favourite “Debaser” cocktail, a mixture of Jack Daniel’s Bonded whiskey, a St. Germain elderflower liquor, as well as punchy hits of coconut and figs.

PHOTO CREDIT: Pulitzer’s Bar