Welcome to the land of tulips, cheese, and windmills! Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, but did you know that there’s so much more to discover within just a few hours’ drive? From picturesque villages to historical landmarks and breathtaking landscapes, the Netherlands offers an abundance of day trip options. Looking for some inspiration for your next adventure? We’ve got you covered! Join us as we explore the best day trips from Amsterdam that are guaranteed to leave you awestruck.
Haarlem
Haarlem is a charming Dutch city located just 20 minutes outside of Amsterdam. This historic town is known for its beautiful canals, quaint cobblestone streets, and impressive architecture. Visitors can explore the many museums and art galleries, stroll through the picturesque parks, or shop for local goods at the weekly market. There is also a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or a night on the town, Haarlem is definitely worth a visit.
There are plenty of things to do in Haarlem. The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous museums and galleries, including the Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum, and Corrie Ten Boom House. Other highlights include the historic churches of Grote Kerk and St Bavo’s Cathedral, as well as the iconic windmills located at the nearby Zaanse Schans.
Nature lovers can take a leisurely stroll through Centrumpark or experience some unique Dutch flora and fauna at Haarlemmerhout Park. There is also a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes for visitors to explore.
The Hague
The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and is located on the North Sea coast. The city is home to many Dutch government buildings, including the Dutch Parliament and the Supreme Court of the Netherlands. The Hague is also known for its lively art scene and its many museums, including the Mauritshuis, which houses Rembrandt’s famous painting The Night Watch.
The Hague is a popular tourist destination, and visitors often spend time exploring the many parks, gardens, and canals in the city. The canals are not as popular as the ones from Amsterdam, but they are still worth a visit.
The Hague is known for its high quality of life, with its friendly locals, great restaurants, and unique architecture. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for an exciting city break that offers plenty of culture and entertainment.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Amsterdam that’s full of culture and history, then The Hague is the perfect place for you. Here are some of the best things to see and do in The Hague:
- Visit the Dutch Parliament
- Explore the Mauritshuis museum
- Take a stroll through Madurodam, a miniature city
- See the amazing collection of art at The Mesdag Panorama
- Relax in one of The Hague’s many parks
Zaanse Schans
The Zaanse Schans is a beautiful, traditional Dutch village located just outside of Amsterdam. Visitors can tour the windmills, see traditional Dutch houses and learn about the history of the area. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Dutch cuisine.
The village is also a great place to take a leisurely stroll, with its canals, bridges, and cobblestone streets. You’ll find plenty of shops selling Dutch souvenirs and other traditional items. The Zaanse Schans is also home to the Zaans Museum, which tells the story of the area’s history.
The village is a popular tourist destination and can easily be reached by public transport. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day trip from Amsterdam or an exciting cultural experience, the Zaanse Schans is an excellent destination.
For those looking for something a bit more active, there are several nature trails around the village that offer views of the countryside and access to local wildlife. There’s also a nearby windmill park where you can ride on a traditional Dutch windmill.
No matter what you’re looking for, Zaanse Schans has something for everyone!
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a must-visit for any architecture buff or fan of modern design. The city is home to some of the world’s most innovative and architecturally significant buildings, including the iconic Rotterdam Cube Houses. Take a walking tour to see the best of Rotterdam’s architecture, or visit one of the city’s many museums devoted to art and design.
The city also has plenty of great restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment. Rotterdam is known for its hip music scene, with a variety of venues and clubs offering jazz, soul, funk, and house music. There’s also the famous Rotterdam Jazz International festival which takes place every year in July. Finally, make sure to check out some of the local events taking place throughout the year.
After exploring Rotterdam’s architectural highlights, take some time to relax in one of the city’s many parks or enjoy a meal in one of its Michelin-starred restaurants. Rotterdam is also home to a lively nightlife scene, so be sure to check out one of the city’s clubs or bars before heading back to Amsterdam.
Utrecht
Utrecht is a charming city located just 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train. With its canals, cobbled streets, and historic buildings, Utrecht is the perfect place for a day trip.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Utrecht, including visiting the Dom Tower, strolling around the Oudegracht canal, and exploring the many museums and galleries. Utrecht is also a great place for shopping, with plenty of independent shops selling everything from clothes to Dutch food specialties.
The city is also known for its nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs scattered around the city. And if you have time, try to squeeze in a visit to one of Utrecht’s beautiful parks – perfect for an afternoon picnic.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Amsterdam that’s a little bit different, then Utrecht is definitely worth a visit.
Zeeland
Just a short ferry ride away from Amsterdam lies the beautiful province of Zeeland. With its sandy beaches, picturesque villages, and stunning natural scenery, Zeeland is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of things to see and do in Zeeland, so whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find it here.
Some of the top attractions in Zeeland include Domburg, Veere, Middelburg, and Goes. Domburg is a popular seaside resort with a wide sandy beach and a charming historic center. Veere is a quaint medieval town with canals, cobbled streets, and traditional Dutch architecture. Middelburg is the capital of Zeeland and is home to plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Goes is a lively town with a vibrant market square and many activities to keep you entertained.
No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in Zeeland. So hop on a ferry and enjoy everything this wonderful province has to offer!
Volendam
Volendam is a small town located in North Holland, just outside of Amsterdam. The town is best known for its fishing industry and traditional Dutch architecture. Visitors can explore the town’s many museums, shops, and restaurants or take a boat ride through the nearby Markermeer.
The town is also popular for its annual Volendam Festival, a traditional celebration that includes music, dancing, and fireworks. The festival is held in June each year and attracts thousands of visitors. Other attractions include art galleries, historic sites, and beach resorts. Volendam is also home to the National Maritime Museum, which provides an insight into Dutch maritime history and culture.
Volendam is a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. The town’s charming atmosphere, its traditional culture, and its proximity to Amsterdam make it an ideal spot for visitors who want to experience Dutch life without traveling too far from the city.
Gouda
Gouda is a small city located in the western Netherlands, about an hour’s drive from Amsterdam. The city is best known for its cheese, which has been produced there since the 13th century. Gouda’s cheese market is held every Thursday from May to August and is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Other attractions in Gouda include the 16th-century St. Janskerk (St. John’s Church), which has the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, and the Goudse Waag (Gouda weigh house), a beautiful Renaissance building that now houses a museum.
In addition to its cheese and historic sites, Gouda is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The city’s main shopping area is centered around the Markt (market square), which features a variety of stores selling everything from traditional Dutch foods to modern fashion. Other places worth exploring in Gouda are the nearby nature reserves, parks, and canals. There are also plenty of cycling paths that lead through the countryside, making it an ideal place for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Marken
Marken is a small town located in the province of North Holland, just a short drive from Amsterdam. The town is best known for its traditional wooden houses and picturesque setting on the Markermeer, making it a popular day trip destination for both locals and visitors to Amsterdam.
Marken is home to a handful of attractions, including a museum dedicated to the history of the town and its people, an old fishing village, and several windmills. The town also has a few small eateries and shopping outlets, as well as ample opportunities for leisurely strolls and picturesque views. Marken is also known for having some of the best tulip gardens in Holland and is one of the most photographed areas in the country.
Visitors to Marken can explore the town’s museums and historic buildings, go for a walk or cycle along the scenic dykes, or simply enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside. There are also several cafes and restaurants in Marken, making it the perfect place to stop for a coffee or lunch break.
Oudewater
Oudewater is a charming Dutch town located just an hour outside of Amsterdam. This hidden gem is known for its picturesque canals and traditional windmills. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and quaint shops, or take a boat tour through the canals. Be sure to try the local specialty, Oudewater soup, which is made with fresh vegetables and herbs.
For those seeking a bit of history, Oudewater is home to the famed Witch Scales. The tower was built in 1580 and served as the site of the first witch trial in Dutch history. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the tower and learn about its dark past. Afterward, they can enjoy traditional Dutch food at one of the many eateries in town or stroll along the canals and marvel at its beauty.
No matter what your interests are, Oudewater is sure to charm. With its beautiful canals, quaint shops, and historical sites, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly Dutch experience.
Edam
Edam is a beautiful town located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. It is renowned for its cheese, which has been produced in the area since the 13th century. The town’s picturesque canals and traditional Dutch architecture make it a popular tourist destination.
Edam is best known as the home of traditional Edam cheese. The cheese has been made in the area since the 13th century and is still produced today in its iconic red-waxed ball shape. Cheese farmers bring their milk to the cheese market in Edam, where it is weighed, graded, and sold.
Edam also has a strong cultural history and many interesting attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Visitors can explore the old town center with its narrow canals lined with colorful buildings, visit local museums and galleries, and take a boat tour of the surrounding countryside. There are also plenty of restaurants offering traditional Dutch cuisine such as bitterballen and stroopwafels.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Edam. The Edam cheese market is held every Wednesday morning and is a great opportunity to try some of the local cheese. The Ed Amsterdam Cheese Museum is also worth a visit, where you can learn about the history and production of Edam cheese. Other attractions include the Edam Windmill Museum, Stadhuis (Town Hall), and St Nicolaas Church.
Edam makes for a great day trip from Amsterdam, especially if you’re interested in learning about Dutch culture and history.
Antwerp
Antwerp is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Belgium. Situated on the River Scheldt, Antwerp has a long and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. A major trading hub during the Renaissance, Antwerp is home to a number of iconic buildings and landmarks.
Today, Antwerp is a thriving city with a lively atmosphere. The city center is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes, while the old town is perfect for exploring on foot. The riverfront is also a great place to relax and take in the views.
For those interested in culture, Antwerp has a number of museums and galleries, including the world-famous Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city also hosts numerous annual festivals, such as the famous Antwerp Jazz Festival and Carnival. There is also plenty to do for families, such as boat trips down the river or visits to the nearby zoo.
Whether you’re interested in history or simply want to explore a new city, Antwerp makes for a perfect day trip from Amsterdam.
Nijmegen
Nijmegen is a beautiful city in the Netherlands, located on the river Waal. It’s just a short train ride from Amsterdam, making it the perfect day trip destination.
Nijmegen is known for its rich history, pre-dating Roman times. The city has numerous historical sites including the old city walls, the Valkhof Museum, and a variety of churches including St. Stephen’s Cathedral. It is also home to a large university and several popular festivals such as the Four Days Marches and Vierdaagsefeesten.
The city’s main attractions are centered around its extensive pedestrian zone with plenty of shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Every summer, Nijmegen hosts a massive outdoor market in this area that is filled with vendors selling everything from traditional Dutch products to handmade crafts. There are also plenty of parks in the city – perfect for picnics or just relaxing on a sunny day.
Nijmegen is an ideal destination if you’re looking for a charming city escape while still being close to all the amenities of larger cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Whether you’re here for sightseeing or just to enjoy some great food and drinks, Nijmegen has something for everyone!
Arnhem
Arnhem is a city in the Netherlands that is located in the province of Gelderland. The city has a population of over 150,000 people. Arnhem is known for its museums, parks, and monuments. The city is also home to the Dutch Open Air Museum, which is one of the largest open-air museums in the world.
Arnhem is a popular destination for tourists.
The city hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Arnhem Fashion Festival and the Jazz in Arnhem festival. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in the city center.
The Netherlands Open Air Museum is one of the main attractions in Arnhem. The museum showcases traditional Dutch culture with its historic buildings, artifacts, and activities like horse carriage rides. Other popular attractions include Burgers’ Zoo, which is one of Europe’s largest zoos; Sonsbeek Park; and the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Visitors can also explore some of Arnhem’s industrial sites, such as Hema, Philips, and Unilever factories.
Delft
Delft is a city in the Netherlands that is known for its beautiful canals and charming Dutch architecture. It is also home to the famous Delft Blue pottery. Visitors can explore the city by foot or boat, and there are plenty of shops and cafes to enjoy along the way. Delft makes for a perfect day trip from Amsterdam, and it’s easy to get to by train or bus.
Delft is full of culture and history, and some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Old Town Hall, the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), and the Royal Delft pottery factory. There are also plenty of museums to explore, including the Prinsenhof Museum and the Vermeer Centrum Delft.
If you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can take a bike tour around town or even rent a boat to explore the beautiful canals. No matter what you choose to do in Delft, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Conclusion
Amsterdam is a great city to explore and the perfect base for day trips. With its stunning countryside, vibrant cities, and unique attractions, there’s something for everyone with these best day trips from Amsterdam. Whether you want to explore medieval architecture or take a hike in nature reserves, there are so many options available for those wanting to make the most of their time in this beautiful city. So why not get out and explore all that Holland has to offer?