Amsterdam is a city that constantly reinvents itself while beautifully preserving its historical charm. If you’re planning a trip to the Dutch capital and want to avoid rushing from one side of the city to the other, we have designed the perfect, relaxed itinerary centered around the iconic Prinsengracht. Experience deep history, culinary delights, and the world-famous canals—all in one day.
Morning: soak up history in the Jordaan district
Start your day with a profound piece of world history. A visit to Amsterdam isn’t really complete without seeing the Anne Frank House. Located on the Prinsengracht, this museum leaves a lasting impression and offers a unique perspective on the city during the Second World War. Editor’s tip: Make sure to book your tickets well in advance online, as they are rarely available at the door.
Lunch: relax with a view of the water
After such an impactful morning, it’s time to take a breath and let your impressions settle. Fortunately, you don’t have to walk far. Just a stone’s throw from the museum, you will find the charming Smidtje Canal Café (De Dialoog). With a beautiful view over the Prinsengracht, this is the perfect spot to sit down for a delicious lunch, a fresh cup of coffee, or a refreshing drink. It’s the ideal pit stop before you head out onto the water.
Afternoon: discover the city from the canals
When in Amsterdam, experiencing the city from the water is simply non-negotiable. The great advantage of having lunch at the aforementioned café is that you can step aboard right outside their doors with Smidtje Canal Cruises Amsterdam. They offer what we consider the most enchanting Canal Cruise Amsterdam, thanks to their personal approach and sustainable, whisper-quiet electric boats.
A route that takes your breath away
Once the mooring lines are cast off at the Anne Frank House, a stunning route unfolds. The boat first glides along the iconic Prinsengracht, offering a direct view of the majestic Westerkerk. Via the picturesque Leidsegracht, the captain turns onto the Herengracht. Here, you experience the wealth of the Dutch Golden Age up close, highlighted by the impressive merchant houses of the famous Golden Bend (Gouden Bocht).
The journey continues past the striking National Opera & Ballet building near Waterlooplein. You then sail onto the Oudeschans, where the historic Montelbaanstoren has been keeping watch over the water for centuries. Entering the expansive Oosterdok, you are treated to a spectacular contrast between old and new: cruising right past the massive VOC replica ship and the modern, ship-like NEMO Science Museum. After a beautiful view of Central Station, the boat briefly ventures out onto the open waters of the IJ via the Westertoegang, before navigating the cozy Korte Prinsengracht to smoothly return to your starting point.
Late afternoon: boutique shopping in the 9 Streets
Back on solid ground? It’s time for the final part of your perfect day out. From the docking location, it’s only a two-minute walk into the famous ‘9 Streets’ (De 9 Straatjes). These picturesque little streets, which connect the main canals, are packed with unique vintage shops, trendy boutiques, specialty stores, and cozy cafes. It is by far the best neighborhood in Amsterdam for some extensive shopping before you head back to your hotel or catch a train home.
As you can see, you barely have to leave the Prinsengracht area to experience a complete day full of Amsterdam’s finest highlights!
