If you’re looking for a quick and exciting getaway from Cork. Amsterdam is the perfect destination. With its picturesque canals, rich history, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam offers a lot to explore in just two days (but as you may tell, I am extremely biased!). In this post, I’ll guide you through the best way to spend a weekend in this charming city, from traveling tips to must-see attractions.
Traveling from Cork to Amsterdam
Getting from Cork to Amsterdam is relatively straightforward and hassle-free. The most convenient option is to fly directly. KLM offer direct flights from Cork Airport (ORK) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), with a flight duration of about 1 hour and 40 minutes. This means you can leave Cork in the morning and be enjoying a canal-side coffee in Amsterdam by lunchtime. KLM can be expensive – and since Aer Lingus stopped Cork-Amsterdam flights in early 2025, I have often travelled to Dublin to fly with them to Amsterdam – even though I need to drive to Dublin, this usually works out at half the price!
Once you arrive at Schiphol Airport, you have several options to get to the city centre. The train is the cheapest but not the most efficient, taking 15-20 minutes to reach Amsterdam Centraal Station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi – which takes a bit longer in morning traffic sometimes, but I recommend over the train for comfort – especially if you are travelling as a couple. A taxi is a much more relaxed way of getting into the city. It usually costs between €40 and €50, but can vary depending on the traffic and where you are going.
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Amsterdam
Morning: Arrival and Check-in Start your first day by checking into your accommodation. Most hotels have a luggage room where they will keep your luggage if you arrive on an early flight and can’t check-in until later. Amsterdam offers a variety of options, from charming boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. I recommend staying in the city centre for easy access to major attractions due to the short duration of your trip, but for longer trips, staying outside the main tourist areas can be a better experience. Read our hotel reviews – which cater specifically for Irish travellers.
Late Morning: Canal Cruise Kick off your Amsterdam adventure with a scenic canal cruise. This is the perfect way to get an overview of the city and its iconic waterways. Several operators offer one-hour cruises, which provide insights into the history and architecture of Amsterdam. Plus, it’s a relaxing way to start your trip after your flight.
Lunch: Local Delicacies After your cruise, head to one of Amsterdam’s many cafes or restaurants for lunch. For a quick and tasty bite, try a broodje haring if you dare (raw herring sandwich with onions and gherkins) or a traditional Dutch pancake at one of the multiple pancake shops. If you prefer something heartier, grab a table at a bruin café (brown café) for some classic Dutch pub food.
Afternoon: Museum Quarter Spend your afternoon exploring Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter. The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit, housing masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch artists. If you’re an art enthusiast, the Van Gogh Museum, located nearby, is also worth a visit, showcasing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world. I recommend you pre-book your tickets online to ensure a speedy entrance. Both museums can be very busy at peak times, and more so during the summer. For those interested in contemporary art, the Stedelijk Museum is also close by and features modern and contemporary art and design.
Early Evening: Stroll Through Vondelpark After immersing yourself in art, take a leisurely stroll through Vondelpark (my favorite park in Amsterdam), Amsterdam’s largest and most popular park. It’s the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the green surroundings. If you’re visiting in the summer, you might even catch a free concert or performance at the open-air theatre. For more in the Vondelpark, see my post Vondelpark: My Favorite Park in Amsterdam.
Dinner: Traditional Dutch Cuisine For dinner, treat yourself to some traditional Dutch cuisine. Moeders, located a bit outside the city centre, offers a cosy atmosphere and serves up hearty Dutch dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and hutspot (a mix of potatoes, carrots, and onions). If you’re in the mood for something different, Amsterdam has an array of international restaurants to choose from.
Night: Evening Walk and Nightlife End your first day with an evening walk through the charming streets of the Jordaan district. The area is known for its picturesque canals, narrow streets, and unique shops. If you’re up for it, Amsterdam has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to explore. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are two popular nightlife areas.
Day 2: Immersing in Local Culture
Morning: Anne Frank House Start your second day with a visit to the Anne Frank House. This historical site is one of Amsterdam’s most poignant attractions, offering a glimpse into the life of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Due to its popularity, it’s crucial to book your tickets online well in advance.
Late Morning: Bloemenmarkt and Cheese Tasting After your visit to the Anne Frank House, head over to the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market. Here, you can admire (and purchase) a variety of flowers, including the famous Dutch tulips. It’s a colorful and fragrant experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Next, indulge in some Dutch cheese tasting at one of the many cheese shops around the market. Henri Willig and Reypenaer are two well-known cheese shops where you can sample and buy a variety of delicious Dutch cheeses.
Lunch: Foodhallen For lunch, make your way to Foodhallen, an indoor food market located in a former tram depot. With a variety of food stalls offering everything from Dutch snacks to international cuisine, it’s the perfect place to refuel before continuing your exploration. The lively atmosphere and diverse options ensure there’s something for everyone.
Afternoon: De Pijp and Albert Cuyp Market In the afternoon, head to the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood. This area is known for its multicultural vibe, trendy cafes, and the bustling Albert Cuyp Market. Spend some time browsing the market stalls, which sell everything from fresh produce and street food to clothing and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up some unique items and enjoy the lively local atmosphere.
Early Evening: Heineken Experience or Brewery Visit Beer lovers shouldn’t miss the Heineken Experience, located in the former Heineken brewery. This interactive tour takes you through the history of Heineken and the brewing process, ending with a tasting session. If you prefer craft beer, consider visiting Brouwerij ‘t IJ, a local brewery located next to a historic windmill, offering a range of unique brews.
Dinner: Canal-Side Dining For your final dinner in Amsterdam, opt for a canal-side restaurant. There are plenty of options, ranging from fine dining to casual eateries. For a memorable dining experience, try De Kas, which serves delicious dishes made from ingredients grown in their own greenhouse (however note that this is a bit of a trek if you are staying in the city center). Alternatively, for a more laid-back atmosphere, enjoy dinner at one of the many cafes along the canals, soaking in the beautiful views.
Night: Final Evening Stroll and Farewell Drink Conclude your two-day adventure with a leisurely evening stroll along the canals. The city’s illuminated bridges and tranquil waterways create a magical ambiance at night. For a final farewell, stop by a cosy bar or a brown café for a drink. Café de Dokter, the smallest bar in Amsterdam, and amazingly around since 1798, offers a charming and intimate setting to toast to your wonderful weekend.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Plan Ahead: Amsterdam is a popular destination, so booking tickets for major attractions in advance can save you a lot of time and hassle.
- Use Public Transport: The city’s public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro, is efficient and easy to use. Consider getting an Amsterdam Travel Ticket, which offers unlimited travel on public transport for a set period.
- Rent a Bike: Cycling is a quintessential Amsterdam experience. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city like a local and cover more ground.
- Stay Central: Choose accommodation in or near the city centre to minimize travel time and maximize your time spent exploring.
- Pack Comfortable Shoes: Amsterdam is best explored on foot or by bike, so make sure you bring comfortable footwear for all the walking and cycling you’ll be doing.
Conclusion
Amsterdam is a city that captivates with its charm, history, and vibrant culture. Even with just two days, you can experience a lot of what this beautiful city has to offer. From picturesque canal cruises and world-class museums to bustling markets and delicious food, Amsterdam promises an unforgettable weekend getaway.
So pack your bags, book that flight from Cork, and get ready for an adventure you’ll cherish forever!
Thanks for joining me on this quick tour of Amsterdam.
Until next time, slán agus beannacht!