Top 12 Dutch Day Trips From Amsterdam - Must-Visit Places in the Netherlands

Unlock the diverse charm of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam's bustling streets with our curated list of the top 12 Dutch places to explore, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences.

In September 2018, Rafael and I moved to The Hague. This city is the seat of the Dutch government and yet, most people don't really know about it! It is often overlooked for Amsterdam, as is the case for many other Dutch cities. There is indeed so much more to the land of tulip, windmills and cheese  than only the weedy cool channel-puzzled Amsterdam: the country has a high number of beautiful places, ranging from major towns to quieter villages. This post is dedicated to travelers who are seeking to discover more in the Netherlands than just Amsterdam and who are looking for less-crowded and authentic Dutch places.

After spending several years in the country and hosting many friends and family, we’ve had plenty of chances to explore various Dutch destinations. Here, we’ve selected the 12 best places to visit in the Netherlands, all within a two-hour radius of Amsterdam, making them ideal for day trips. Our list is organized by distance, from the closest to the furthest from Amsterdam.

INTRODUCTION TO THE NETHERLANDS

Before we dive into the list, here’s a quick overview of the Netherlands. The name "Netherlands" means "lower countries," reflecting its geography where about 30% of the land is below sea level. Its iconic water canals, crucial for boats and charming landscapes, define the Dutch scenery. Compact and well-connected by an excellent train system, the Netherlands is easy to explore in a few days (more information on the NS website). No matter where you go, you'll encounter historic towns, serene countryside, stunning coastlines, canals, windmills, tulips, cheeses, and much more!

1. HAARLEM

Haarlem, the first city on our list, is just a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam. With its cobbled streets, charming canals, and a rich history dating back to Roman times, Haarlem offers a delightful escape from the crowds. Haarlem has a fascinating history dating back to Roman times. Found near Amsterdam, this charming city invites you with its preserved medieval buildings, pretty canals, and a lively cultural scene that's been thriving for a long time.

While in Haarlem, don't miss the lively Grote Markt, encircled by historic buildings and busy cafés, serving as the vibrant heart of the city. Immerse yourself in Haarlem's timeless charm by exploring not only its iconic sites like the majestic cathedral but also the lesser-known gems — hidden courtyards or hofjes such as Teylers Hofje or Proveniershof. These secret enclaves offer a glimpse into local life, providing serene escapes away from the main thoroughfares. Haarlem stands as an ideal day trip destination for those seeking an authentic Dutch adventure amid the quaintness of its alleys, lively market, and tucked-away courtyards.

| Travel time by train - 15 minutes |

| Train fare - 5 EUR |

2. ZAANSE SCHANS

Located just a short distance from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is a well-known tourist destination that showcases the quintessential charm of traditional Dutch life. This open-air museum features historic windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal workshops, providing visitors with a glimpse into the Netherlands' past. Established in the 1960s to preserve the architectural heritage and industrial history of the Zaan region, Zaanse Schans offers an immersive experience of 18th and 19th-century Dutch life, highlighting the area’s significance as one of the first industrial regions in the world.

Access to the grounds of Zaanse Schans is free, but tickets are required to enter the museums and windmills (more information here). The main attractions in Zaanse Schans include visiting operational windmills, watching demonstrations of traditional crafts like cheese-making and clog-making, exploring the quaint, preserved buildings, and visiting the museum center. However, while Zaanse Schans is undoubtedly picturesque, it can often be quite busy and touristy, which may detract from the experience. Thus, for a quieter and more serene experience, consider a trip to Kinderdijk instead (see information below). With its 19 historic windmills and tranquil waterways, Kinderdijk offers a more peaceful retreat and a deeper dive into Dutch history and engineering. 

| Travel time by train - 17 minutes |

| Train fare - 4 EUR |

3. MARKEN

Located only 17 kilometers from Amsterdam, the former traditional fishing village of Marken is a must-see! During the 13th century, this place used to be an island in the Zuiderzee (Southern Sea) but when the Southern Sea was closed off, it became a peninsula in the Markermeer lake. This island town is part of the municipality of Waterland which also comprises the cute village of Volendam. It's the ideal place to get a glimpse of what old Holland looked like with its old wooden green houses and its peaceful countryside. Marken can be crowded in the summer, so if you can, visit on a weekday, preferably during the off-season.

When visiting Marken, we recommend starting your trip by exploring the main fishing village, where you can admire the traditional green wooden houses and immerse yourself in the local culture. Afterward, head to the picturesque lighthouse, known as Paard van Marken and enjoy a leisurely walk around the entire former island, taking in the serene countryside views. Marken is definitely one of our favorite day trip destinations from Amsterdam, offering a perfect blend of history, charm, and natural beauty.

| Travel time by bus - 28 minutes |

| Bus fare - 6 EUR |

4. VOLENDAM

Even busier than Marken, Volendam is a traditional and picturesque fishing village that has become a popular tourist destination. Famous for its colorful wooden houses, fishing boats, and seafood stalls, Volendam captures the essence of Dutch coastal life. In the 20th century, artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet found inspiration here. Nowadays, it's a favored day trip for tourists from Amsterdam, though it can get crowded. If it feels too busy, consider taking a boat across Markermeer lake to the quieter village of Marken, just 30 minutes away, for a more relaxed experience (more information here).

When in Volendam, visit the harbor before strolling around the quieter part of town. The city has a lot of cheese stores/museums in which you can taste pieces of Edam or Gouda cheeses and is also home to the stroopwafel museum (Woltje's Backerij). Although Volendam may be quite busy, it remains a nice place to visit!

| Travel time by bus - 25 minutes |

| Bus fare - 6 EUR |

5. UTRECHT

Utrecht is one of our favorite cities in the Netherlands. It is the fourth largest town of the country and is well-known for its universities and its cultural eclecticism. It is one of the oldest city of the Netherlands: it was founded more than 2.000 years ago as a Roman fortress and has been for a long time considered as the religious center of the country. Utrecht has a charming old town which twists its way around the many canals of the city. To sum it up, Utrecht has nothing to envy to its big sister Amsterdam and constitutes an ideal base for your stay in the Netherlands.

Our advice to visit Utrecht is to get lost in its many streets, stroll along the canals (why not even go on a canal cruise?!), stop to cute little bars and cafés (make sure not to miss the unique Belgisch Biercafé Olivier which is nested in an old church) and eat some delicious Dutch treats in the many eating options the city offers. Don't forget to visit the Domkerk Cathedral and its Pandhof Garden. You'll realize that the city doesn't have many sights to visit, but its ambiance makes Utrecht an incredible place to experience, making you want to come back!

| Travel time by train - 26 minutes |

| Train fare - 9 EUR |

6. ALKMAAR

Alkmaar, just a 30-minute journey from Amsterdam, is a picturesque Dutch city with a rich history and a lively culture. The town has well-preserved medieval buildings, inviting canals, and fascinating museums. Most visitors come to Alkmaar for its famous traditional cheese market, held on Friday mornings from April to early September, where the lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and traditional cheese carriers create a delightful scene.

A visit to Alkmaar wouldn’t be complete without exploring its iconic landmarks, including the medieval Grote Kerk (Great Church) and the Stedelijk Museum, which highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the cheese museum in the historic 16th-century Waagtoren tower and the charming hofjes (almshouses) with their lovely courtyard gardens. The Waagplein, where the famous cheese market takes place, transforms into a lively hub surrounded by historic buildings and cozy cafés. With its unique blend of history and culture, Alkmaar is an ideal day trip destination for those seeking an authentic Dutch experience away from the tourist crowds.

| Travel time by train - 35 minutes |

| Train fare - 9 EUR |

7. AMERSFOORT

Not far from Utrecht is located the medieval town of Amersfoort. It is a picturesque canal city that has a lot of buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Amersfoort's history started in the Mesolithic ages - remains of hunter camps dating back to 1000 BC were found - but it is during the Middle Ages that the city started to form: fortifications were built around the canals in order to protect the town from invaders. As of today, you can still see one of the most beautiful medieval gates of the country: the Koppelpoort. This iconic medieval building was built between 1380 and 1425 and is a combination of land and water gates. Amersfoort is also known as the birthplace of Piet Mondriaan, a famous Dutch painter, still regarded today as one of the greatest artist of the 20th century.

When visiting Amersfoort, make sure to first head to the iconic 15th-century Koppelpoort gate and then start heading towards the medieval center of the city. Get lost in its many alleyways, including the famous Muurhuizen (wall houses). Don't forget to check out the Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren (Tower of our Lady) which is very impressive. You'll for sure have a pleasant time discovering Amersfoort!

| Travel time by train - 35 minutes |

| Train fare - 10 EUR |

 | For more information about Amersfoort, check our post here |

8. leiden

Dating back to Roman times, Leiden is home to the oldest University in the Netherlands with over 400 years of existence. Located at the confluence of the Oude and Nieuwe Rijn rivers (Old and New Rhine) in the South part of the country, Leiden is also the hometown of one of the most illustrious Dutch painters: the globally famous Rembrandt van Rijn. With all its surrounding canals, Flemish architecture and traditional wind mills, Leiden is the perfect day trip destination for travelers seeking the typical Dutch experience without the tourist crowd.

The main highlights of the city include the historic Burcht van Leiden (Leiden Castle), perched on a hill offering stunning views, the iconic Molen de Valk (Valk Windmill), and the charming Pieterskwartier with its narrow, winding alleys. Don’t miss the beautiful botanical gardens and the fascinating museums, such as the National Museum of Antiquities. Leiden is definitely one of our favorite cities in the area, blending rich history with a vibrant atmosphere!

| Travel time by train - 35 minutes |

| Train fare - 11 EUR |

 | For more information about Leiden, check our post here |

9. THE HAGUE

The Hague (or Den Haag) is a city in South Holland and located near the shore of the North Sea. As mentioned above, it is the seat of the Dutch government and the official residence of the Royal family. It’s also the city we call home. Throughout time, the city developed a great importance in diplomatic and judicial matters, being often referred to as the "City of Peace". The city is indeed home to important organisations such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Yet, The Hague has a laid-back vibe and is a very pleasant town to visit.

When in The Hague, don't forget to check out the amazing museum of the Mauritshuis, the Binnenhof (Parliament) as well as the majestic Peace Palace. If you have enough time, we highly recommend you to head to the seaside resort of Scheveningen, but more particularly, to the wild park of Westduin Park. You'll for sure have a good time in this cute little big town!

| Travel time by train - 51 minutes |

| Train fare - 14 EUR |

 | For more information about The Hague, check our post here |

10. GOUDA

Time for cheese! Gouda (pronounced "how-dah" in Dutch) is renowned worldwide for its yellow cow’s milk cheese, which is named after the city. This iconic cheese has been sold for centuries in the Markt square. Gouda is also famous for its traditional stroopwafels. But the city offers more than just cheese and sweets; it boasts remarkable buildings like the Gothic Town Hall, dating back to the 15th century, as well as the impressive Sint Janskerk. Known for its stunning stained glass windows, this church is the longest in the country, stretching over 123 meters (403 feet).

The famous cheese market still takes place today and is held every Thursday mornings from April to August, so make sure you go and visit Gouda on a Thursday. Also, don't forget to check the Town Hall and its unique carillon clock with mechanical puppets (it rings 2 minutes after every hour and half hour) as well as the Sint Janskerk. And most of all, do not leave without tasting a delicious piece of Gouda cheese and a delicious stroopwafel! Gouda is an ideal day trip destination, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and Dutch culinary delights.

| Travel time by train - 51 minutes |

| Train fare - 14 EUR |

11. DELFT

Just a 15-minute train ride from The Hague and less than an hour from Amsterdam, you'll find one of the country's most charming town: Delft. Home to the world famous wannabe-porcelain blue and white pottery, Delft is a relatively small canal-ringed town with picturesque and traditional Dutch architecture in every street and is a popular day trip destination. During the Dutch Golden Ages, Delft was a trade center that allowed the blooming of a rich artistic movement from which one particular citizen from Delft got famous: Johannes Vermeer, "the Master of Light". His most known piece, "Girl with a Pearl Earring", influences not only painters, but also writers and movie makers.

The main things to see in Delft include the Markt square of the city with its incredible Renaissance style Town Hall on one side and the grand Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) on the other side. Delft offers a refreshing escape from the bustling crowds of Amsterdam, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a more tranquil and authentic Dutch experience.

| Travel time by train - 1 hour |

| Train fare - 16 EUR |

 | For more information about Delft, check our post here |

12. KINDERDIJK

Just a short trip from Rotterdam, Kinderdijk is one of the Netherlands' most enchanting places. Home to 19 historic windmills, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers picturesque views and a glimpse into Dutch history and engineering. The area’s unique and scenic landscape, with expansive polders and tranquil waterways, offers a pleasant Dutch experience, combining natural beauty with historical charm. From Amsterdam, take a train to Rotterdam and then head to the Erasmus Bridge, where a waterbus provides a scenic route directly to the site. The roundtrip on the waterbus costs around 10 EUR (more information here).

Kinderdijk's main attractions include guided tours of the iconic windmills, where you can step inside and explore their history and mechanics. Scenic boat rides through the canals offer a unique vantage point of the windmills and the picturesque landscape. Additionally, the interactive visitor center provides a deep dive into the region's pioneering water management systems. Kinderdijk is a must-visit gem in the Netherlands, showcasing the country's rich heritage and engineering marvels!

| Travel time from Amsterdam by train & waterbus - 2 hours |

| Train & waterbus fare - 22 EUR |

 | For more information about Kinderdijk, check our post here |

In summary, while Amsterdam is a fantastic city, the rest of the Netherlands has a lot to offer too! Exploring beyond the capital lets you discover charming towns, historic cities, and beautiful landscapes that add to the country’s rich culture. By visiting these lesser-known spots, you'll find a side of the Netherlands that's just as exciting and memorable as Amsterdam!

And now it's your turn to let us know what your favorite Dutch places are. Have you already visited the Netherlands? We look forward to reading your comments in the section below.

Tags: Netherlands