The best day trips from Amsterdam

In this article, The best day trips from Amsterdam, we will show you what places outside this city to visit if time allows you. Furthermore, we will give you some helpful tips to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

best day trips from Amsterdam - windmills of Holland

©Nico Trinkhaus

The best day trips from Amsterdam

So, why have we, in European Travels, decided to share this city with you? Firstly, Amsterdam might be small, but it is mighty at the same time. Namely, there’s so much to see, eat, etc. So, why would you ever want to leave this beautiful city and go on a day trip? Well, make no mistake: the Netherlands is full of gems, many offering delicious food and cultural scenes to rival the Capital. 

But the best part? You don’t even have to choose between them. Just have both at the same time! The cities on the following list are easily reachable from Amsterdam by train or ferry as a day trip. So what are you waiting for? Here are the best day trips from Amsterdam. 

Discover the windmills of Old Holland.

When discussing The best day trips from Amsterdam, we must stress one. A trip to Holland wouldn’t only be complete with seeing a windmill. At Zaanse Schans, one of the most visited attractions, visitors can admire eight restored windmills. The historical (yet artificial) village allows a glance into houses, old factories, and windmills. It was an incredible insight into the industrial heritage of Holland when the area around the river Zaan was a hub for linseed oil, paint, paper, and mustard production.

Top tip: The Zaan Boat can be caught from behind Central Station (Pier 14) for a picturesque route to the village.

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Haarlem has it all!

Haarlem is an excellent option for a day trip from Amsterdam, as it is only a 15-minute train ride. The city is adorable and historic, and it offers quaint cobbled streets, well-preserved architecture, and iconic windmills in a less bustling environment than Amsterdam.

Moreover, Haarlem is small enough to explore the city center in just one afternoon, which you can quickly do with a guided walking tour or relaxing sightseeing canal cruise with snacks and drinks – a perfect way to enjoy the Netherlands.

Top tip:  This day trip is also a must for all the shopaholics! Haarlem’s Gouden Straatjes (Golden Streets) are well-known destinations for lovers of premium and designer brands, and a visit to this area promises you’ll make your way back to Amsterdam, weighed down by shopping bags.

Enchanting castels in Holland - De Haar Castle

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Enchanting castles right out of a storybook

It’s incredible to know that there are many castles, fortresses, and grand waterside estates just a short distance from the center of Amsterdam. One of the best examples of a fairytale fortress is the medieval castle Muiderslot. It features turrets, a drawbridge, battlements, and a moat. Today, Muiderslot is a national museum restored to its former glory, with enchanting gardens and interiors. Guided tours provide insights into the castle’s history since its construction as a defense post at the mouth of the Vecht River in 1280. De Haar Castle is another equally magical and medieval castle located near Utrecht; that’s why we put it on our list of The best day trips from Amsterdam.

best day trips from Amsterdam - Tulips

©Jacob H./Getty

Flowers, as far as the eye can see

Tulips, together with cheese and clogs, represent Dutch culture. During springtime, the Amsterdam Area bursts with colorful fields and flower parades. The Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse is a famous spot to view flowers, with over seven million daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips blooming between March and May. Known as the ‘Garden of Europe,’ it is one of the most popular tourist destinations. You can also explore the beautiful views and scents of the flower fields in the surrounding area. But if you want, you can also rent a bike, car, or boat to navigate the flowers.

Top Tip: Would you like to find Secret flower fields? In this case, try the following locations in Lisse: Zwartelaan, Essenlaan, and Loosterweg-Zuid.

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©Gouwenaar/Wikipedia

For maritime history lovers

The Bataviawerf is a shipyard near Lelystad that takes visitors back to the golden era of Dutch maritime history. During this time, the East India Trading Company (VOC) sailed grand ships to trade exotic spices. The infamous 17th-century Batavia sailing ship has been restored. So visitors can explore its decks. More importantly, the Bataviawerf is dedicated to preserving ancient shipbuilding craftsmanship and provides insight into the blacksmith’s forgery and wood workshops. Additionally, the shipyard displays Battleship De 7 Provinciën, the world’s most extensive reconstruction of a ship. 

Top tip: If you’re a ship lover, you don’t want to miss SAIL, the world’s largest free nautical event celebrating tall sailing ships. This event takes place in Amsterdam every five years.

best day trips from Amsterdam - Utrecht

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Charming Utrecht

This lively medieval city feels like a mini-Amsterdam, and it was the Dutch Capital until the 16th century. Furthermore, the scenic Old Town has excellent independent boutiques, bustling cafes, bars, converted waterside wharf cellars, and more. It’s slouch regarding culture: some of the country’s art and music can be found alongside the hundreds of historical monuments.

Rotterdam

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Modern Rotterdam

Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ second-largest city, was almost destroyed during World War II. Its subsequent rebuilding effort, led by renowned architects, created a modern and diverse landscape. The River Maas divides the city into a polished northern bank and an unpolished southern bank. Despite this, Rotterdam is a fascinating place to visit, with many cultural and economic activities happening here.

gettyimages-1180546367 Bruges

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Bruges Day Trip from Amsterdam

Bruges is a fairytale-like destination in Belgium, known for its medieval architecture and canals. It’s the farthest day trip from Amsterdam, taking about 3 hours by train or car. Indulge in Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer while you’re there. You can also opt for a full-day guided tour from Amsterdam, which includes transportation, a walking tour, a visit to a chocolate shop, and 3 hours to explore on your own.

The conclusion of The Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

The Netherlands might be a small country, but there’s so much to see. That’s why we are sure we left many must-see locations on our list. So, if you have a recommendation, please share it with us in the comments below.

References and sources:

Photo credits:

Feature picture credits: Jacob H./Getty

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