How to plan a sensible day of coffeeshop visits, in the right order, with time for food, rest and getting home.
Why plan a route
Amsterdam is compact, but zigzagging across town wastes time and energy. A little planning means less walking, more time to enjoy each stop and an easier day overall. Our route planner does the ordering for you.
Choose your stops
- Keep to one or two areas. See our area pages.
- Pick two to four stops. More than that is too much for most people in a day.
- Mix the styles. A cosy terrace, a well-stocked shop and a quiet spot for a break.
- Check the hours. Confirm opening times before you set out.
Walking or cycling
- Walking. Best in the centre, where streets are narrow and busy.
- Cycling. Good for longer distances and outer areas, but do not ride after using cannabis. Cycle between stops early in the day, or take a tram home.
Using the route planner
- Search and add the coffeeshops you want.
- Choose walking or cycling, and kilometres or miles.
- Select a route type, such as best, fastest or shortest.
- Press Route it to see the suggested order, distances and times.
- Open it in Google Maps, or save it to your account.
Build in breaks
- Eat between stops.
- Drink water.
- Sit down and let things settle before moving on.
Plan the end
Finish near where you are staying, or near a tram stop. Do not plan a long ride or a late journey after your last stop.
Be flexible
Shops can be busy or closed. Have a backup nearby, and do not feel you must complete every stop. See smart habits for a visit.