May is the perfect time to visit Amsterdam. The tulips may have just peaked, but the city is still in full bloom — with sun-dappled canals, cozy terraces, and picture-perfect streets around every corner. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your spring getaway, this 3-day itinerary covers local culture, bike adventures, parks, and seasonal cafés.
🗓️ Day 1: Canal Walks, Museumplein & Jordaan Cafés
🚶 Morning: Explore the Canal Belt (Grachtengordel)
Start your day with a walk along the UNESCO-listed canal ring. Head towards De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), full of boutique shops and pastel-colored facades.
Pro Tip 🌸: Early morning offers soft spring light for dreamy canal photography.
🖼️ Midday: Museumplein & the Rijksmuseum Garden
Spend midday visiting Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum, then relax in the museum gardens, which are blooming in spring.
☕ Afternoon: Cafés in Jordaan
Wander into Jordaan for a late lunch or spring-themed pastry at spots like Winkel 43 (famous apple pie!) or Koffiehuis de Hoek.
🗓️ Day 2: Bikes, Bloemenmarkt & Vondelpark Picnic
🚲 Morning: Rent a Bike & Ride Along the Amstel
Join the locals! Rent a bike and head south along the Amstel River, stopping at windmills and riverside cafés.
Pro Tip 🚴: Use the Fietsrouteplanner app for bike-friendly paths.
🌷 Midday: Bloemenmarkt – Floating Flower Market
This floating market along Singel Canal is lined with tulip bulbs, flower stalls, and colorful souvenir shops.
🌳 Afternoon: Picnic in Vondelpark
Grab stroopwafels, cheese, and fresh juice and enjoy an afternoon in Vondelpark—Amsterdam’s most beloved green space.
🗓️ Day 3: Springtime Charm & Local Gems
🛍️ Morning: De Pijp & Albert Cuyp Market
This vibrant area is known for its multicultural food, fresh produce, and vintage clothing stalls. Don’t skip the fresh stroopwafels.
🌸 Midday: Hortus Botanicus – Botanical Garden
Visit one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, blooming with tulips, orchids, and lush spring greenery.
🌅 Evening: Sunset at Magere Brug (The Skinny Bridge)
End your spring trip with a golden hour photo session on Amsterdam’s most romantic bridge, lit up at night.
👟 What to Wear in Amsterdam in Spring
- 🎒 Crossbody bag or mini backpack
- 🧥 Light jacket or trench coat
- 👟 Comfortable sneakers (bike + walk friendly)
- ☔ Packable umbrella (yes, there might be light rain!)
- 🧢 Sunglasses + scarf (sun + breeze combo)
📸 Best Photo Spots in Spring
- De Negen Straatjes pastel facades
- Tulip displays at Bloemenmarkt
- Bikes parked along canal railings
- Vondelpark cherry blossoms
- Magere Brug at sunset
🧳 Final Thoughts
Spring in Amsterdam is soft, calm, and full of small pleasures—from blooming bridges to cozy bike rides. This 3-day itinerary blends culture, nature, and café life into a perfect seasonal escape.
Pin this guide, pack light, and let the city’s spring spirit guide your trip. 🌷🚲