Amsterdam is a beautiful place to visit, known for its picturesque canals, museums, and lively atmosphere. But our recommendation is while you are there you should make at least 1-2 day trips from Amsterdam to explore more places and immerse yourself in the Dutch culture.
Amsterdam is a beautiful place to visit, known for its picturesque canals, museums, and lively atmosphere. But our recommendation is while you are there you should make at least 1-2 day trips from Amsterdam to explore more places and immerse yourself in the Dutch culture.
If you are ready for some fresh sights, then pack your bags and join us on a journey to some of the best day trips from Amsterdam! With over 30 incredible destinations to choose from, including historic cities, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes, the Netherlands is the perfect place for an adventure-filled getaway. You can immerse yourself in local culture, admire stunning architecture, or just enjoy the endless and picturesque countryside. In this guide, we present you the best places for day trips from Amsterdam including some of the best-hidden gems.
The Netherlands is a small country, and traveling anywhere takes less than three hours by train or car. Additionally, the public transportation system is very good with a well-integrated network of trains and buses that makes even the smallest villages easily accessible. Nearly all large cities have a tram network in addition to train and bus stations that are frequently right next to one another. So if you want to get around the Netherlands you have the following options:
By train
Train travel is the most convenient way to explore the Netherlands. Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) manages the system, one of the best in Europe, to a large extent, though not exclusively. The modern NS trains usually arrive on time, cost relatively little, and have a wide network of lines. There are two different types of NS services: the quick Intercity for city-to-city connections and the Sprinter, which runs on local routes and stops almost everywhere.
Other train companies also run long-distance, international, high-speed services throughout the Netherlands. In particular, Fyra and Thalys, whose services link Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and ICE trains, which connect Amsterdam with Utrecht and Arnhem, do so. There are separate restrooms at bigger train stations in the Netherlands.
By bus and tram
In addition to the train system, there is a bus system that covers every remote location and is operated by local businesses.
By car
In our opinion, the best way to explore the Netherlands, especially the countryside is by renting a car. The majority of the time, driving throughout the Netherlands is smooth, simple, and quick. The country has a generally good road network, with most major towns connected by some type of motorway or dual carriageway.
One of the best ways to explore the most important places in the Netherlands is by renting a car. There are a lot of international companies that operate in the country and a lot of different options that match your needs.
We crafted a map for you of best the places you can visit from Amsterdam. Our map presents the best places to visit on a day trip from Amsterdam. It highlights a variety of destinations, including historical cities, charming towns, and stunning natural landscapes. From the picturesque canals of Utrecht to the rolling hills of the Dutch countryside, each location is carefully curated to offer a unique and memorable experience. We believe that our map is the perfect tool for planning an unforgettable day trip from Amsterdam.
Zaanse Schans is like a museum that shows the traditional Dutch way of life. While you are there, you can see traditional Dutch windmills, houses, and workshops that have been preserved and restored to their original state. Those windmills were used for various industrial purposes such as grinding spices, sawing wood, and oil production. Take a stroll through the charming village and learn about the history of the Dutch green wooden clogs, cheese making, and other traditional crafts. You can also visit the Zaanse Schans Museum to see a collection of old tools, furniture, and household items.
Today, some of these windmills are open to the public and offer guided tours, giving visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of windmill technology and see the inner workings of these fascinating machines.
Zaanse Schans is located just 15 minutes outside of Amsterdam and is easily accessible by train. From Amsterdam Central Station, take the train to Koog-Zaandijk Station, and from there it’s just a short walk to the entrance of the village. You can also reach Zaanse Schans by car or take a guided tour from Amsterdam.
Giethoorn, in our opinion, is the most beautiful village in the whole Netherlands. This charming village is known for its beautiful canals, wooden bridges, and traditional Dutch houses. You can take a boat tour through the canals or rent a boat and explore on your own, which in our opinion is the best way to see the village. You can also walk along the waterways and admire the idyllic scenery, visit the local museums and shops, and try some delicious Dutch cuisine in one of the village’s charming restaurants. The village is also known for its beautiful thatched-roof houses, which are a traditional feature of the Dutch countryside.
Giethoorn is located in the province of Overijssel and is easily accessible from Amsterdam. The best way to reach Giethoorn is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Alternatively, you can take a train to Steenwijk and then a bus which will take you to the village. Cars are not allowed in the village, so the best way to explore the village is on foot or by boat. So, leave your car behind and immerse yourself in the peaceful, car-free atmosphere of Giethoorn.
Volendam is a charming fisherman’s village located on the shores of the IJsselmeer lake. While you are there, you can take a stroll along the harbor, admire the picturesque houses and boats, and try the fresh seafood. One of the most famous activities in Volendam is to dress up in traditional Dutch clothing for a photo. The village is also famous for its music, and you can enjoy a lively performance of Volendam music in one of the local cafes.
Volendam is a perfect destination for a day trip from Amsterdam since it can be reached by train from Amsterdam in just 30 minutes. From the train station in Volendam, it is a short walk to the village center. Alternatively, you can also reach Volendam by bus or car from Amsterdam.
Haarlem is a historic city with charming canals and beautiful parks. You can visit the St. Bavo Church, which contains the largest organs in the world, and the Teylers Museum, established in 1778, which is the oldest museum in the Netherlands. The city is home to several famous Dutch painters, including Frans Hals where you can visit the Frans Hals Museum or the De Hallen Museum which features art and photography exhibitions. Additionally, you can take a stroll through the picturesque Haarlemmerhout Park.
Haarlem can be easily reached by train from Amsterdam, with trains departing frequently from Amsterdam Central Station. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Visitors can also reach Haarlem by bus, car, or bike from Amsterdam.
Keukenhof is a famous tulip garden that has over 7 million bulbs blooming in the spring. You can admire the endless fields of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers, and explore the park’s themed gardens, lakes, and pavilions. Keukenhof also features a number of exhibitions, events, and activities, including live music, art installations, and flower parades.
Keukenhof is located in Lisse. You can take a direct train from Amsterdam Central Station to Schiphol Airport, and then transfer to a shuttle bus that takes you directly to Keukenhof. The park can also be reached by car or bike from Amsterdam, with several parking options available. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes transportation from Amsterdam.
The easiest way to explore Keukenhof is by booking an organized tour from Amsterdam. There are a lot of available tours on GetYourGuide.
The Lisse Tulip Fields, in our opinion, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the world. There are a lot of rolling hills covered in colorful tulips in that area and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who visits the Netherlands in the spring. You can enjoy the beauty of the tulip fields, go for a walk or bike ride along the tulip fields, and you combine this with ta in the Keukenhof Gardens.
Lisse Tulip Fields are located about 25 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam. The best way to reach and explore the fields is by car.
Delft is a charming and historic city in South Holland famous for its blue and white pottery. The most popular attractions in Delft are:
Delft is easily accessible from Amsterdam by train or car. The journey from Amsterdam by both train and car takes around an hour, Once in Delft, you can explore the city on foot or by bike.
Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the country, dating back to the Roman era. This city has a rich history and cultural heritage and a lively student population and a vibrant cultural scene. The best things to do in Utrecht are:
Utrecht is easily accessible by train or car from Amsterdam. There’s also a good public transportation system, including trams, buses, and bicycles, and therefore it is easy to get around the city.
Gouda is a charming and historical city located in South Holland. This city is famous for its cheese, candles, and beautiful stained glass windows. While you are there, you can enjoy a peaceful walk through its picturesque streets, and the iconic town hall. The best things you can do in Gouda are:
Gouda is easily accessible by car, bus, and train from Amsterdam. Once in Gouda, you can explore the city on foot or by bike.
Kinderdijk is a picturesque village located in South Holland. It is famous for its 19 windmills, which are considered to be some of the best-preserved examples of Dutch windmills. The windmills were built in the 18th century to drain the excess water from the polders, making the land suitable for agriculture. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you are there, you can take a boat tour to see the windmills up close or just walk along the canals. There’s also a museum (De Smidse Museum) that offers a glimpse into the lives of the millers and the workings of the windmills.
Kinderdijk is easily accessible by car, bus, or bike. It is located about 20 km east of Rotterdam and can be reached by car in about 30 minutes. There is also a bus that runs from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk, taking about 45 minutes. For those who prefer to cycle, it is possible to rent a bike in Rotterdam and cycle to Kinderdijk along the picturesque Nederrijn river.
Bourtange is a small village located in Groningen. This historic village is famous for its star-shaped fort and well-preserved architecture. The village was built in the 16th century and served as a military fortification until the late 19th century. The village has been restored to its original condition and is now a popular tourist destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.
Bourtange is easily accessible by car, with a lot of parking available. The nearest train station is in Winschoten, which is about 15 minutes away by car. From the train station, you can take a bus or taxi to Bourtange.
The Hague is located on the western coast of the Netherlands. It is the third-largest city in the country and is the seat of the Dutch government, home to the International Court of Justice, and the Peace Palace. The Hague has a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore. Some of the most important attractions are:
The Hague is easily accessible by train or car from Amsterdam. The city also has its own airport.
Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and a hub of international trade and commerce. Rotterdam is a vibrant city with stunning architecture and a thriving cultural scene. The best things to see in Rotterdam are:
Rotterdam is easily accessible from Amsterdam by train or car. There are also several bus and tram lines that run throughout the city, making it easy to get around. Additionally, Rotterdam has its own international airport.
Groningen is a bustling city located in the northern Netherlands and is known for its rich history, vibrant student culture, and stunning architecture. While you are there, you can visit the Groninger Museum, which is dedicated to contemporary and modern art, or take a stroll through the Noorderplantsoen park. You can also visit the Martinitoren, a towering medieval bell tower. There are also numerous shopping streets and cafes.
Groningen is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you’re traveling by train, the city has a main railway station that is well connected to other parts of the country. You can also take a bus to Groningen, as there are several regional and international bus lines that stop in the city. Once you arrive in Groningen, getting around the city is easy and convenient, as it has an extensive network of bike lanes and public transportation.
Marken is a small village located in the IJsselmeer lake. The fun fact about it is that it was once an island, but is now connected to the mainland by a causeway. The town is known for its traditional wooden houses and beautiful landscapes. We recommend you take a walk along the charming streets of Marken and admire the picturesque wooden houses.
Marken is easily accessible by bus, car, or by bike from Amsterdam or Volendam. You can also take a ferry from Volendam. If you are visiting by car, there is a parking lot near the entrance to the town.
Alkmaar is a charming city located in the northern part of the Netherlands. Alkmaar has beautiful canals and well-preserved architecture, it is a must-visit destination. While you are there, you can explore the charming center, the beautiful canals, and the colorful houses and shops. You can also visit the Alkmaar Cheese Museum, which tells the story of the city’s famous cheese market. Additionally, you can visit the Alkmaar Sint-Laurenskerk, a 15th-century church, and the Waag, a weigh house that has been converted into a museum.
Alkmaar can be reached by train from Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Amsterdam’s central station, which takes around 45 minutes. The city is also accessible by car, with parking available in several large lots near the city center.
Leiden is a charming city in South Holland. If you are interested in history, culture, and natural beauty, then Leiden is a must-visit for you. The best things to do in Leiden are:
Leiden is well-connected to Amsterdam by train, bus, and road. The closest airport is Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, which is approximately 20 minutes by train from Leiden Central Station.
Muiderslot Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Muiden. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the best-preserved castles in the country. The castle was once the home of Count Floris V and has since served as a military fortification, a prison, and a residence for government officials. Today, it is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the history and architecture of the Netherlands. The castle is also famous for its beautiful gardens and its collection of medieval weapons and armor.
Muiderslot Castle can be reached by car, train, or bus. The castle is just a short walk from the Muiden train station and is also accessible by bus. If you are visiting Muiderslot Castle by car, there is parking available near the castle.
Kasteel de Haar is a stunning 19th-century castle located in the town of Haarzuilens, near Utrecht. The castle is considered as one of the most beautiful and largest castles in the Netherlands. You can explore the castle’s interiors, and stroll through the castle’s green gardens, which have a variety of trees and flowers. One of the highlights is the castle’s chapel, which is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
You can get there by car by train or by bicycle.
Oudewater is a historic town in Utrecht. It is known for its well-preserved 16th-century architecture, picturesque canals, and its traditional role as a center of the production of rope and textiles. The town is located near the scenic Oude Rijn River and is also famous for its annual Witch Weighing Festival, which has been held for over 500 years. While you are there, you can visit the 16th-century Weigh House (Waag), walk along the picturesque canals, and visit the historic churches of St. Nicholas and St. John.
You can there easily from Amsterdam by car. The nearest train station is located in Woerden, which is about 15 minutes by bus from Oudewater. Additionally, regular bus services are available from Amsterdam.
Dusseldorf is located in the western part of Germany. There are a lot of things to see in this beautiful city:
You can get to Dusseldorf by train or by car from Amsterdam. In additional, Dusseldorf International Airport is located just a few minutes from the city center.
Bruges, also known as Brugge in Dutch, is a picturesque medieval city in the northwest of Belgium. In general, Bruges is a travel destination on its own but while you are in Amsterdam you can visit it for a day or two. There are a lot of charming canals and picturesque buildings. Bruges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 and there are a lot of things to see and do. The best of them are:
Bruges is accessible by car or trains from Amsterdam. The nearest airport is Ostend-Bruges International Airport, which is located about 30 minutes from the city center by car or bus.
Antwerp is a city located in the northern part of Belgium, famous for its beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene. One of the most important attractions is the Antwerp Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. While you are there, you can walk along Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street, explore the Museum Plantin-Moretus, take a stroll along the picturesque canals of the city, visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp and visit the Red Star Line Museum.
You can get to Antwerp by train or car from Amsterdam.
Nijmegen is a city located in Gelderland in the eastern part of the Netherlands. Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands and is famous for its history and vibrant student life. The best things to do in Nijmegen are:
You can get to Nijmegen by train, bus, and car from Amsterdam.
Arnhem is a city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, near the German border. There is a wide range of things to see and do in Arnhem. Some of the must-visit attractions are:
Arnhem can be easily reached by car, train, or bus. The city has a train station that connects it to Amsterdam and other major cities in the Netherlands and Europe. There are also several bus lines that connect Arnhem with other cities in the Netherlands.
Brussels is the capital of Belgium, is located in central Belgium, and is famous for its stunning architecture, and historical landmarks. The city offers a wide range of activities and experiences for travelers and the best of them are:
Brussels is well-connected to Amsterdam and other European destinations by air, train, and bus.
Hoorn is a historic city located in the northwestern part of the Netherlands. Some of the must-visit sights in Hoorn are the Westfries Museum, the Rode Steen Square, the Hoorn Harbor, and the St. John’s Church. While you are there, you can also visit Monnickendam, a picturesque village that is located just a short ferry ride from Hoorn.
Hoorn can be easily reached by car, train, or bus. The bus from Amsterdam to Hoorn takes approximately 1 hour.
Kampen is a historic city in Overijssel located along the IJssel River and is famous for its historic buildings and charming canals. You can explore the city center, visit the Kampen Museum, stroll along the city’s charming canals and enjoy the picturesque views. You can also visit the nearby town of Zwolle, which is also known for its historic architecture and canals.
Campen is accessible by car, train, and bus from Amsterdam.
Amersfoort is a city in the central Netherlands with a rich history, charming canals, and picturesque architecture. Amersfoort is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming streets, and beautiful parks and gardens. The best things to do in Amersfoort are:
You can get there by train, car or Bus from Amsterdam.
Zwolle is a charming and historic city in the Overijssel. The best thing to do in Zwolle is to the Sint Michaelkerk’s beautiful Gothic church and the Grote Markt which is a spacious square surrounded by historic buildings. You can also visit the Museum de Fundatieand the Stedelijk Museum. Additionally, you can enjoy the large park of Verenigingpark or take a relaxing boat tour along the IJssel River.
Zwolle is accessible by train, car, or bus from Amsterdam.
Schiedam is a charming city located in South Holland. The highlights of Schiedam are the iconic windmills and the gin distilleries. Some of Schiedam’s windmills date back to the 17th century. While you are there, you can also visit the national Jenever Museum which showcases the history of gin-making in Schiedam and where you can see how gin is made. Two more interesting attractions are the Old Church and the Schiedam Market which is held every Wednesday and Saturday.
Schiedam is easily accessible by train, car, and bus from Amsterdam.
Dordrecht is a charming city located in South Holland. Dordrecht is a great destination for those interested in history and culture. The city has a picturesque old town center with canals and historic buildings. The highlights are the St. Lawrence Church, a historic church, and the Dordrechts Museum which presents the city’s history. Other attractions are the church of Dordrecht Grote Kerk, the historic building of Boterwaag, and Stadhuis, the impressive town hall.
You can get to Dordrecht by train, car, or bus from Amsterdam.
The Netherlands is a small country and you can drive along it only in just 3 hours. This reason gives you a lot of options for a day trip from Amsterdam and someone can get easily overwhelmed by all these options. Choosing the best day trip from Amsterdam depends on your needs, so we will try to help you choose the best destination for you.
Amsterdam is surrounded by many interesting cities, towns, and attractions that cater to different interests. If you are a history buff, you may want to visit places like Haarlem, Leiden, or Utrecht. If you are interested in nature, you may consider visiting the beach towns of Zandvoort or Wijk aan Zee. If you are looking for a quiet and picturesque town, you can visit places like Edam, Volendam, or Marken
Amsterdam is well-connected with different modes of transportation, including trains, buses, and boats. You can choose the mode that best suits your travel style and budget. Trains are convenient and quick, but buses may offer more scenic routes, and boats provide a unique perspective on the Dutch countryside.
Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, and some day trips can get busy, especially during peak season. To avoid long lines and crowded attractions, it is best to plan ahead and make reservations for popular places.
The Netherlands can experience rainy and windy weather, especially in the spring and fall. When planning your day trip, be sure to check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing and gear.
While some people prefer to focus on a single destination on their day trip, others enjoy a mix of activities and sights. You can visit a museum in the morning, have a picnic in the park in the afternoon, and finish with a relaxing boat ride in the evening.
Now that we have all the necessary information, it’s time to start planning your trip! To help you get started, we’ve compiled some helpful resources. By using our links to make purchases, you’ll be supporting us at no extra cost to you.
We truly appreciate your support! ♥️
No Comments