When most people think of Amsterdam, they picture its iconic canals, charming architecture, and vibrant city life. However, there’s a lot more to the Netherlands than just its capital. While Amsterdam is an incredible destination with plenty to offer, stepping outside the city allows you to experience a side of the Netherlands that most tourists miss.
Whether you’re in search of picturesque villages, tulip fields, historic castles, or the quintessential Dutch windmills, the best Amsterdam day trips will satisfy your wanderlust and show you a new perspective on this beautiful country.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top day trips from Amsterdam that will inspire you to see more than just the city.
These Are the Best Places Near Amsterdam
- Giethoorn
- Zaanse Schans
- Alkmaar
- Volendam
- Marken
- Kasteel de Haar
- Keukenhof and Tulip Fields
- Muiderslot Castle
- Bloemendaal & Zandvoort Beaches
1. Giethoorn: The ‘Venice of the Netherlands’
Located in the province of Overijssel, Giethoorn is one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in the Netherlands. This charming village, known as the “Venice of the Netherlands,” is famous for its canals, thatched-roof cottages, and tranquil atmosphere. With its lack of roads and a network of waterways, the best way to explore Giethoorn is by boat or on foot. This idyllic village is often featured in travel magazines and Instagram posts, making it one of the most popular Amsterdam day trips.
How to Get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam?
You can easily reach Giethoorn by car, which takes about 1.5 hours. If you prefer public transportation, take a train from Amsterdam Centraal to Steenwijk, followed by a short bus ride to Giethoorn. The journey by public transport takes around 2 hours, making it an ideal day trip from Amsterdam.
Things to Do in Giethoorn
- Boat Tours: Rent an electric whisper boat or join a guided canal tour to glide through the picturesque canals.
- Visit Local Museums: Explore the Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus to learn about the history and culture of this village.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Enjoy a meal at one of the canal-side cafes, where you can relax while watching swans and ducks paddle by.
2. Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Dutch Heritage
Zaanse Schans is a popular destination for anyone who wants to experience traditional Dutch culture in a picturesque setting. Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam in the town of Zaandam, this open-air museum offers a glimpse into what life was like in the Netherlands centuries ago. Here, you’ll find iconic windmills, historic wooden houses, and workshops where you can see traditional crafts like wooden clog making and cheese production.
How to Get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam?
Zaanse Schans is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Centraal, with the journey taking just 17 minutes. You can also drive there in about 20 minutes if you prefer a more flexible schedule.
Things to Do in Zaanse Schans
- Tour the Windmills: Visit working windmills and learn about their role in Dutch history. Some of the windmills are still in operation, producing oil, paint, and mustard.
- Visit the Zaanse Schans Museum: Dive into the region’s history with exhibitions on local crafts, trades, and traditions.
- Explore Traditional Workshops: Watch how Dutch clogs are made and sample locally produced cheeses in the artisan workshops.
3. Alkmaar: Cheese Markets and Historic Canals
Cheese lovers rejoice! Alkmaar, a historic city famous for its traditional cheese market, is a delightful day trip from Amsterdam. Held every Friday morning from April to September, the Alkmaar cheese market is a spectacle that showcases the Dutch tradition of cheese weighing and trading. While the market is a big draw, Alkmaar has much more to offer, from charming canals to beautiful historic buildings.
How to Get to Alkmaar from Amsterdam?
Alkmaar is about a 40-50 minute drive from Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal, which takes about 35-40 minutes.
Things to Do in Alkmaar
- Visit the Cheese Market: Watch as cheese is weighed, traded, and carried in the traditional way, a unique experience that offers a glimpse into Dutch culture.
- Explore the Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets of Alkmaar’s old town, lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
- Cultural Sites: Visit the St. Lawrence Church (Sint Laurenskerk) and the historic weigh house (Waag) that now houses the Cheese Museum.
4. Volendam: A Quaint Fishing Village on the Coast
Volendam is a picturesque fishing village known for its traditional Dutch houses, bustling harbor, and rich maritime history. Located on the shores of Lake Markermeer, Volendam is one of the most popular Amsterdam day trips for those looking to experience the Dutch coast. The village’s colorful wooden houses and lively waterfront make it a photographer’s dream, while its local delicacies like smoked eel and herring offer a taste of authentic Dutch cuisine.
How to Get to Volendam from Amsterdam?
Volendam is just a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam. You can also take a bus from Amsterdam Centraal, which takes about 30-35 minutes.
Things to Do in Volendam
- Explore the Harbor: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, lined with cafes, shops, and fishing boats.
- Visit a Clog and Cheese Farm: Stop by Irene Hoeve to see how traditional Dutch clogs and Gouda cheese are made.
- Sample Local Delicacies: Try fresh herring with onions, a Dutch specialty, at one of the local fish stalls.
5. Marken: A Quaint Island Village with Traditional Charm
For a day trip that combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, head to Marken, a small island village located just 30 minutes from Amsterdam. Known for its charming wooden houses, narrow streets, and serene atmosphere, Marken is a picture-perfect destination. While it’s less crowded than Volendam, Marken offers similar coastal charm and can be easily combined with a visit to Volendam via the Volendam-Marken Express ferry.
How to Get to Marken from Amsterdam?
Marken is just a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Amsterdam Centraal, which takes around 45 minutes.
Things to Do in Marken
- Visit a Clog Workshop: Watch as traditional Dutch clogs are carved from wood and see the machinery used to create these iconic shoes.
- Wander the Village: Explore the Kerkbuurt and wharf, the two neighborhoods that make up Marken, and take in the quaint charm of this historic village.
- Enjoy the Coastal Views: Walk along the dikes and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Markermeer.
6. Kasteel de Haar: A Fairy-Tale Castle Near Amsterdam
If you’re a fan of castles and grandeur, a visit to Kasteel de Haar is a must. Located just 30 kilometers from Amsterdam, this stunning castle is the largest in the Netherlands and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Dutch elite in the 20th century. With its turrets, moats, and beautiful gardens, Kasteel de Haar looks like something out of a fairy tale.
How to Get to Kasteel de Haar from Amsterdam?
Take a train from Amsterdam Centraal to Vleuten, followed by a bus ride to the castle. The entire journey takes about an hour. If you’re driving, it takes around 30 minutes.
Things to Do at Kasteel de Haar
- Tour the Castle: Explore the lavish interiors of the castle, including the grand ballroom, opulent dining room, and stunning library.
- Stroll the Gardens: Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, complete with fountains, statues, and rose gardens.
- Learn the History: Discover the fascinating history of the castle, which was reconstructed in the late 19th century by the wealthy Van Zuylen family.
7. Keukenhof and Tulip Fields: A Dutch Springtime Wonderland
No trip to the Netherlands in spring is complete without witnessing the breathtaking tulip fields. The Keukenhof Gardens, located in Lisse, are world-famous for their vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at the stunning floral displays.
How to Get to Keukenhof Gardens from Amsterdam?
Keukenhof is about a 40-minute drive from Amsterdam. You can also take a bus from Amsterdam to the gardens, with several direct options available during the spring season.
Things to Do at Keukenhof Gardens
- Explore the Flower Gardens: Wander through 32 hectares of gardens, featuring millions of blooming flowers in every color imaginable.
- Take a Self-Guided Tulip Tour: If you prefer to see the tulip fields in their natural setting, consider renting a bike and following a tulip route through the surrounding countryside.
- Visit Flower Shows: During the Keukenhof season, there are several flower shows featuring orchids, roses, and other blooms.
8. Muiderslot Castle: Step Back in Time to the Middle Ages
For history buffs and castle enthusiasts, Muiderslot Castle offers a journey back to medieval times. Built in 1280 by Count Floris V, this castle played an important role in Dutch history, serving as both a fortress and a toll station for traders traveling on the Vecht River. Today, Muiderslot is one of the best-preserved castles in the Netherlands and a fantastic destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.
How to Get to Muiderslot Castle from Amsterdam
You can take the Amsterdam Tourist Ferry from Ijburg Marina, a short tram ride from Amsterdam Centraal. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive to Muiden in about 25 minutes.
Things to Do at Muiderslot Castle
- Tour the Castle: Explore the castle’s interior, including the knight’s hall, dungeon, and armory. The castle also offers interactive exhibits for kids.
- Explore the Gardens: Wander through the castle’s historic gardens, where you’ll find traditional herb gardens and beautiful flowers.
- Discover Medieval Life: Learn about life in the Middle Ages through the castle’s exhibits, which include chainmail, medieval weapons, and more.
9. Bloemendaal & Zandvoort Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Beach Bars
If you’re visiting Amsterdam in the summer and craving some sun and sand, head to the Dutch coast for a day at the beach. Bloemendaal and Zandvoort are two popular beach destinations located just a short drive from Amsterdam. While the beaches themselves may not be as rugged as those in other countries, they make up for it with lively beach bars, water sports, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
How to Get to Bloemendaal & Zandvoort Beaches from Amsterdam?
Both beaches are easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Centraal, with the journey taking about 30 minutes. Driving takes around 35-40 minutes.
Things to Do at Bloemendaal & Zandvoort Beaches
- Relax on the Beach: Soak up the sun, take a dip in the North Sea, or simply relax with a good book.
- Visit Beach Bars: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at one of the many beach bars, where you can sip cocktails, listen to live music, and watch the sunset.
- Try Water Sports: Rent a surfboard, paddleboard, or kiteboard and make the most of the waves.
FAQs
Last Words
While Amsterdam is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most iconic cities, the surrounding areas offer just as much charm, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil canals of Giethoorn, wandering the historic streets of Alkmaar, or soaking up the sun at Bloemendaal Beach, these day trips from Amsterdam provide a deeper understanding of Dutch culture and history. Just as Uluwatu in Bali offers a serene escape from the bustling Kuta, these Amsterdam day trips provide a peaceful retreat from the city’s vibrant energy.