19 Day Trips from Amsterdam
Canal-carved streets, awe-worthy art museums and a rowdy Red Light District set the scene for an epic getaway. If you tire of stroopwafels and the big city buzz, escape Sin City on one of these day trips from Amsterdam.
This world-famous travel destination is crowned with labyrinth-like canals, greened-out coffee shops and a forward-thinking attitude. Cycle around the coffee shops, score vintage items in the markets and fill your stomach with plenty of poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes).
Amsterdam’s innovative art scene, picture-perfect buildings and flashy Red Light District offer travellers a truly unique experience in Europe. From the history of the Anne Frank House to the immersive Van Gogh Museum, the abundance of attractions in Amsterdam will entertain you for days on end.
If you need a break from sightseeing, ditch the city and head out on a day trip from Amsterdam. Surrounded by historic castles, iconic windmills and vibrant tulip fields, there's so much to be discovered.
Combine a day trip with this Northern Europe 3-Week Itinerary and make the most of your time abroad. Before you jet off on your holiday in Amsterdam, check out this travel guide.
Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
Amp up the energy on your Amsterdam vacation with these 19 day trips. Cheese tours, rural villages and beer-tasting experiences await! Here’s a summary of the top destinations we cover:
Zaanse Schans
Keukenhof Gardens
Haarlem
Utrecht
The Hague (Den Haag)
Delft
Rotterdam
Volendam
Marken
Giethoorn
Brussels, Belgium
Antwerp, Belgium
Aachen, Germany
Alkmaar
Leiden
Texel Island
Gouda
Kinderdijk
Bruges, Belgium
Zaanse Schans
19. Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk’s 19 UNESCO-listed windmills shine a light on Holland’s rich history.
Walk or cycle around the mills, dive deep into the culture and be sure to snap plenty of Insta-worthy pictures.
Wind your way through the canals and board a tour boat for a unique experience. Don’t miss the museum mills, where you can discover the personal stories of the millers.
These UNESCO-listed windmills are an easy day trip from Amsterdam and are best suited to photographers and nature lovers.
How to get to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam:
Bus: Take a train to Rotterdam Central, then the metro to Kralingse Zoom and a bus 489 to Kinderdijk (1h 45m).
Train: Take a train to Rotterdam Central (45 min), then the metro and a bus to Kinderdijk.
Car: Drive via A2, A27, and A15 (1h 10m) and park at Marineweg 3, Alblasserdam, where a shuttle runs to the site.
18. Alkmaar
Calling all cheese lovers! Canal-side cafes and cheese museums set the scene for an epic day trip from Amsterdam.
Located in the province of North Holland, Alkmaar is famous for its traditional cheese market. This popular cultural destination is home to highlights like the St. Lawrence Church and Dutch Cheese Museum, where you can learn how it’s made and how the special flavours are created.
When you’re done drooling over cheese, discover the rich history, lively culture and picturesque landscapes. D'Oude Stad, the historic city centre, is nestled with narrow streets, traditional façades and bridge-carved canals.
If you plan a trip to Amsterdam in the summer, don’t miss the Kaeskoppenstad, an annual festival that takes you back in time to the 16th century. If you’re a foodie or family-inclined traveller, Alkmaar’s pastries and cheese tours will make for a memorable experience.
How to get to Alkmaar from Amsterdam:
17. Giethoorn
The ‘Dutch Venice’ is coined for its canal boat tours and must-see museums.
Giethoorn is crowned with thatched-roof houses that fringe the canals. Rent a boat or cycle along the village trails and discover local restaurants. Dutch pancakes and fresh seafood are a must!
Home to many canals and 176 bridges, the village is the perfect place for nature lovers and couples. Giethoorn has no roads in the centre, making it an ideal place to walk and cycle.
Museum Giethoorn offers insight into the historic farming village. Spot the costumed actors, shop for souvenirs at the gift shop and nibble on local delicacies at the cafe.
How to get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam:
16. Keukenhof Gardens
Keukenhof Gardens is one of the best day trips from Amsterdam. Marvel at the colourful tulip displays and themed gardens for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Covering 32 hectares, the Keukenhof Gardens date back to the 15th century. The grounds are also known as the ‘Garden of Europe’ and are open to the public between March and May.
Visitors can dabble in the dazzling displays of daffodils, hyacinths, tulips and varieties of shrubs and perennials.
Enjoy the flower shows, take a boat tour through the tulip fields and wander around the enchanting themed gardens.
This springtime sojourn showcases millions of blooming tulips, making it popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Keukenhof Gardens is one of Europe’s largest flower gardens, and the scenery here looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a fairytale book.
If you plan a trip to Amsterdam in March, April or mid-May, don’t miss a day trip to Keukenhof Gardens.
How to get to Keukenhof Gardens from Amsterdam:
15. Texel Island
Texel Island is home to sandy beaches, rolling dunes and practically untouched nature reserves.
Texel is part of the biggest natural barrier that’s sandwiched between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea. This sandy spot is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven, with unusual plants and animals dotted around the landscape.
Cycle around Texel Island’s extensive bike paths and tempt your taste buds with Texel lamb dishes. Get immersed and learn about local marine life at the Ecomare Centre or spend the afternoon in the lively Texel Brewery.
Texel Island boasts over 30 kilometres of coastline, making it a top-tier destination for beach lovers. Head to hot spots like De Koof or De Hors in the south of Texel.
How to get to Texel Island from Amsterdam:
14. Gouda
There are many things to do in Amsterdam, and for most travellers, food is a top priority - pancakes, stroopwafels and cheese will have you swooning.
There’s no better place to experience Dutch cheese than in Gouda!
This Dutch city is situated south of Amsterdam in the province of South Holland.
Gouda is world-famous for its namesake cheese and drool-worthy cheese market, which is held in the medieval Markt Square.
Don’t miss the 15th-century Town Hall, a postcard-worthy Gothic building.
Put the cherry on top of your day trip and visit the 17th-century Goudse Waag, a cheese-weighing station that’s been transformed into the Gouda Cheese Museum.
How to get to Gouda from Amsterdam:
13. Bruges, Belgium
Make your stay in Amsterdam unforgettable with a day trip to Belgium! This enchanting village is well-known for its Medieval architecture, charming canals and fairytale vibes.
Bruges is lined with cobbled streets, traditional restaurants and teeming attractions. Climb to the top of the Belfry Tower for epic views, visit the Groeningemuseum and sip local Belgian beer in Markt Square. Pack your appetite for plenty of Belgian chocolates, waffles and beer because Bruges is a foodie’s paradise. Beer lovers can show off their expertise in the Bruges Brewery.
There are many day trips from Amsterdam to other countries, but Belgium is a standout option. The head of the European Union is also considered the unofficial heart of Europe.
Belgium is an exciting escape that invites you to uncover the world-renowned cuisine and beer. From romantic canal cruises to the striking architecture, Bruges is one of the best day trips from Amsterdam.
How to get to Bruges from Amsterdam:
Bus: If you do a day trip to Belgium from Amsterdam, it’s best to start in the early morning. Take a bus from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Bruges. The total journey time is about 4 hours.
Train: Board the Thalys train to Brussels and then take a local train to Bruges. The journey time is around 3 hours.
Car: 3-hour drive via A1 and E40.
12. Leiden
Attractions in Amsterdam come in no shortage, but sightseeing can become strenuous. Escape the tourist trail on a day trip to Leiden and experience the birthplace of Rembrandt!
Leiden boasts botanical gardens, immersive museums and rolling canals that offer travellers a tranquil escape. Visit the Museum of Antiquities, taste local herring and Leiden cheese and immerse yourself in the rich history on a walking tour.
Hortus Botanicus is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands (and one of the oldest in the world!). The Botanical Gardens are situated in the southwestern part of the city centre and have been running since 1590.
You’ll encounter exotic plant life, meticulously curated gardens and a verdant greenhouse. Highlights include the Japanese Gardens and the Victoria Glasshouse.
How to get to Leiden from Amsterdam:
11. Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans shines a light on traditional Dutch life. Pack your day trip with its picturesque windmills, green wooden homes and stellar scenery.
Get insight with a clog-making workshop, indulge your palette at the cheese farm and tour around the iconic windmills.
The Zaans Museum is a must-see for history buffs, while the Albert Heijn Museum Shop will take you back in time to the 19th century.
Situated in the Zaandam neighbourhood, Zaanse Schans is well worth visiting.
For centuries, the town was a hub for world trade, so you can experience the Netherlands’ industrial history.
Immerse yourself at the World of Windmills Museum, see the Zaanse Schans windmills and please your palette at the Verkade Chocolate and Biscuit Factory.
How to get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam:
10. Marken
Marken is crowned with quaint wooden houses, scenic coastal paths and a rich seafaring history.
Located in North Holland, Marken is a famous fishing village that’s home to a well-known harbour. Stroll along the panoramic coastal paths and sample local delicacies like eel dishes.
Head to the top attraction, the Marken Museum and Lighthouse. This local maritime museum is spread over six homes and focuses on the area’s fishing heritage. Visit the iconic Paard van Marken Lighthouse and appreciate the details on the traditional wooden houses.
You can explore Marken comfortably in just two to three hours. But if you're a photography enthusiast or plan to relax by the water, you might want to stay until sunset.
How to get to Marken from Amsterdam:
9. Aachen, Germany
Looking for a day trip from Amsterdam to Germany? Add Aachen to the top of your bucket list!
This historic spa town is sandwiched near Germany’s borders, with neighbouring Belgium and the Netherlands. Aachen is well-known for its thermal baths, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the charming Old Town.
This historical haven is steeped deep in charm, from the 9th-century Aachen Cathedral to the Baroque Town Hall. Pack your appetite too, because this town is teeming with local cafes. German pastries and Aachener Printen (gingerbread) are a must-try!
How to get to Aachen from Amsterdam:
8. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp seamlessly blends fashion, art and architecture into one epic day trip.
Belgium’s fashion capital is crowned with a vibrant port, the dazzling Diamond District and the historic Cathedral of Our Lady. Rubens House (Rubenshuis) is located in the heart of Antwerp. Visit the artist's residence and library, and when you’ve gotten your history fix, spend some time in the baroque garden.
Admire the architecture at Antwerp Central Train Station and climb to the top of MAS | Museum aan de Stroom for city panoramas.
Local dishes in Antwerp include Belgian fries (frites) and mussels. When your senses are satiated, wash it all down with beer in a local brewery.
There are many exciting day trips from Amsterdam to other countries, but Antwerp is best for those looking to get off the typical tourist trail.
Big cities like Brussels (Belgium) and Aachen (Germany) steal the spotlight, while Antwerp offers a local, low-key escape.
How to get to Antwerp from Amsterdam:
7. Rotterdam
Modern architecture, contemporary museums and a diverse food scene make Rotterdam a getaway from the godsend.
Rotterdam is well-known for highlights like the Cube Houses and Erasmus Bridge. Don’t miss the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum, the Pilgrim Fathers Church and the Maritime Museum's vintage ships. Explore the 17th-century Delfshaven neighbourhood for canal-side shopping.
This port city in South Holland is a utopia for foodies, thanks to The Markthal. This is the biggest public street market in Rotterdam and it takes place every Tuesday and Saturday, full day. Taste international eats like Indonesian rijsttafel and fresh seafood.
How to get to Rotterdam from Amsterdam:
6. Haarlem
Haarlem is a historical hub that’s jam-packed with art and culture, from Frans Hals’s masterpieces to the quirky museums.
This city is located outside Amsterdam in northwest Netherlands. Haarlem’s medieval character can be found as you explore the cobblestone streets and admire the gabled houses.
Give your credit card a workout in the boutique shops, visit the striking Grote Kerk and step inside the iconic Frans Hals Museum. After spending some time in the historic city centre and renowned art museums, stroll along the Spaarne River and bask in the relaxed atmosphere.
Local food in Haarlem will have you drooling. Don’t leave without trying crispy apple pie and fresh seafood, as well as Jopenbier from a local brewery.
How to get to Haarlem from Amsterdam:
5. Volendam
Spice up your Amsterdam trip and explore Volendam, a traditional fishing village known for its scenic harbour.
This Dutch town is located on the Markermeer Lake, just northeast of Amsterdam. Volendam is well-known for its vibrant wooden homes and antique fishing boats. The harbourfront is framed with local seafood vendors, where you can try tasty dishes like smoked eel and kibbeling.
Top attractions include the Cheese Factory and Volendam Museum, which features paintings, sculptures and pottery from the 1800s to the present.
How to get to Volendam from Amsterdam:
4. Delft
This canal-ringed city is tucked in the western Netherlands and is famous for Delftware (hand-painted pottery).
This is a hot spot for culture enthusiasts, thanks to the huge haul of attractions in Delft. Wander astray in the Old Town and swing by the medieval Oude Kerk (Old Church) and 14th-century Nieuwe Kerk.
Indulge in Delft Blue Cheese in the lively market square before heading inside the Royal Delft Factory. Get artsy in the Museum Prinsenhof and hop on a classic canal cruise to see Delft from the water.
How to get to Delft from Amsterdam:
3. The Hague (Den Haag)
Den Haag is the seat of the Dutch government, but it’s not all about business here. Breezy coastal beaches and medieval architecture combine to make this one of the most diverse day trips in the Netherlands.
The Hague is located in western Netherlands and is famous for the Gothic-style Binnenhof complex, which is home to the Dutch Parliament.
Marvel at the 16th-century Noordeinde Palace and get cultured at the Mauritshuis Museum. Stroll along the breezy Scheveningen Beach and don’t leave Den Haad without seeing the Peace Palace and the Royal Palace Noordeinde.
How to get to Den Haag from Amsterdam:
2. Utrecht
Picturesque canals and rich history make Utretcht a unique escape near Amsterdam.
Utrecht’s canals are fringed with unique wharf cellars, which allow you to get to know the city in a completely unique way. These symbolic structures were created back in the Middle Ages, and each canal is crowned with its own characteristics.
Climb to the top of the Dom Tower for incredible city views or step inside the 19th-century Centraal Museum. Set aside some time to explore the historic old town, which is lined with cosy cafes serving poffertjes (mini pancakes). Foodies can satisfy their taste buds with local Vocking sausage and Utrecht beer.
How to get to Utrecht from Amsterdam:
1. Brussels, Belgium
This lively city showcases quirky street art, must-see museums and grandiose plazas.
Belgium’s capital is woven with a wealth of culture, history and awe-worthy architecture. City life in Brussels revolves around the Grand Place, the central square. Here you’ll find the city's Town Hall, the neo-Gothic King's House and the Brussels City Museum.
Spot the cheeky Manneken Pis statue and explore the gardens before heading into the futuristic-looking Atomium. Top attractions come in no shortage, but don’t leave without seeing the Royal Palace and the Magritte Museum.
Brussels is the best day trip from Amsterdam by train, especially if you’re a food fanatic. Indulge in Belgian crispy waffles, decadent chocolates and sauce-covered fries (frites). When you’re all foodied out, dip in and out of the centuries-old bars and lock lips with Belgian beer.
Want to stay a little longer? Extend your day trip from Amsterdam to Belgium! Find the Best Places to Stay in Brussels and spend a few more days in Belgium’s capital city. Spice up your itinerary and combine the slew of sightseeing experiences with these Top Day Trips from Brussels.
How to get to Brussels from Amsterdam:
Amsterdam Itinerary 3 Days
Here’s a 3-day Amsterdam itinerary for your next getaway. This travel guide includes all the top sights and practical details to help you make the most of your trip. Combine this itinerary with a day trip from Amsterdam by train to other countries!
Day 1 in Amsterdam
Your first day in Sin City is all about history, culture and scenic views.
Morning
Enjoy a classic breakfast in Amsterdam (you can’t go wrong with traditional Dutch pancakes)
Visit Rijksmuseum and marvel at masterpieces like Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’
Explore the Museumplein and meander through the gardens
Afternoon
Take a lunch break and indulge in traditional Dutch cuisine
Check out the iconic Van Gogh Museum
Wind down at Vondelpark, the city’s largest green space
Evening
Bring the day to a close on a sunset canal cruise
Day 2 in Amsterdam
Your second day in Amsterdam is all about the city’s local vibes.
Morning
Relish your tastebuds with a local breakfast
Discover De Pijp and visit the Albert Cuyp Market
Afternoon
Visit the Heineken Experience and tour around the brewery
Wander through the boutiques, art galleries and cafes in Jordaan
Evening
See the Jordaan by night and enjoy the lamplight-lit canals
Optional: Watch a live music performance at a local bar
Day 3 in Amsterdam
Your third day in Amsterdam is all about offbeat adventures.
Morning
Fuel up for the day with a nourishing breakfast
Visit the Anne Frank House ( be sure to book online well in advance)
Wander astray in the 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets)
Afternoon
Indulge in a lunch at Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market with global eats
Take a ferry from Centraal Station and explore NDSM Wharf, known for its quirky street art and bars
Evening
Marvel at the sunset from A’DAM Lookout
If you’re up for it: Hit up the Red Light District or coffee shops
Best Time to Visit Amsterdam
The best time to visit Amsterdam depends on your preferences for weather, budget, events and crowds. Here's what to expect in each season:
Spring
From March to May, you can enjoy tulip season, mild temperatures and outdoor festivals. The biggest highlights include Keukenhof Gardens (open mid-March to mid-May) and the King’s Day (April 27), where a city-wide celebration takes place. Temperatures are around 8–17°C (46–63°F), so a light jacket and umbrella are required.
Summer
From June to August, you can bask in long days and a vibrant atmosphere. Make the most of the canal-side terraces. outdoor markets, open-air concerts and festivals like Amsterdam Pride (August). This is the perfect season to enjoy Vondelpark, thanks to temperatures of 17–20°C (63–68°F). Summer is the peak tourist season in Amsterdam, so expect higher prices and lots of people.
Autumn
From September to November, you can experience the magic of the autumn leaves. The weather ranges from 9–15°C (48–59°F) and the crowds dissipate after September. If you want better accommodation deals, book your Amsterdam trip in October. Big events include the Amsterdam Dance Event (October) and Museumnacht (November), where museums open until late.
Winter
From December to February, you can enjoy fewer tourists and festive lights. Bundle up for low temperatures - expect cold and damp weather between 0–6°C (32–43°F). Aside from Christmas and New Year’s, you can score great hotel and flight deals in the low season. Highlights include Amsterdam Light Festival (December–January) and ice skating at Museumplein.
Things to do in Amsterdam
The best things to do in Amsterdam certainly come in no shortage. Here are the top attractions and activities:
Speed around like a local on a guided bike tour
Marvel at the Van Gogh Museum
Indulge with local cheese & fine wine on a classic boat cruise
See the colourful, tulip-filled Keukenhof Estate
Visit all the highlights on a village sightseeing bus tour
Keep your trip budget-friendly with the Amsterdam Pass
Feel the ambience in the Red Light District & coffee shops
Get educated at the Amsterdam Museum
How to Get Around Amsterdam
Here’s a complete guide on how to get around Amsterdam.
Biking
This is the most iconic way to get around the city! Amsterdam is the world’s most bike-friendly city, thanks to its network of bike lanes and flat landscape. You can rent bikes all around the city for around €10–15 per day.
Public Transport
Public transport in Amsterdam is efficient and reliable, making it the best option for long-distance travel, rainy days and travelling outside the city centre. Transport is run by GVB and includes trams, buses, metro and ferries.
Trams are ideal within the city centre, the metro is best for reaching places like Bijlmer or Amstelveen, and there are free ferries from Amsterdam Centraal to Amsterdam Noord.
Enjoy the best day trips from Amsterdam by train with the OV-chipkaart, a reloadable card that covers all public transport, or the GVB Day Pass, which offers unlimited travel for 1–7 days.
Walking
Walking is best for short distances, as Amsterdam’s historic centre is quite compact. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as you explore the Jordaan, Nine Streets (9 Straatjes) and Red Light District on foot.
Boats & Canal Cruises
Canal cruises offer a scenic experience in Amsterdam and cost around €15–25 per person. Canal cruises are particularly magical at sunset or during the Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place in winter.
Car Rentals
Amsterdam has high parking costs, with prices up to €7/hour in the centre. Narrow streets and bike traffic make driving difficult in the city centre. I’d only recommend renting a car if you plan to do day trips outside Amsterdam, like the Zaanse Schans or Giethoorn.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
Make your Amsterdam trip all the more memorable by booking the best accommodation:
Budget (€): MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam
Mid-Range (€€): Four Elements Hotel
Luxury (€€€): De L’Europe Amsterdam
FAQs
What is the best day trip from Amsterdam?
Windmills, tulip fields and historic towns surround Holland’s capital city. Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken are popular cities, while Brussels and Bruges are the best day trips from Amsterdam to Belgium.
What cities are close to Amsterdam by train?
Delft is around 45 minutes away by train
Haarlem is around 15 minutes away by train
Zaanse Schans is around 17 minutes away by train
How many days in Amsterdam is enough?
Three to four days is an ideal amount of time to spend in Amsterdam. With a 3-day itinerary, you can see the highlights, visit the top museums and indulge in local Dutch cuisine.
Where else can you go from Amsterdam?
There are many popular travel destinations near Amsterdam, including the Koblenz and the Moselle region (Germany), Prague (Czech Republic) and Dusseldorf (Germany).
Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Amsterdam?
Make your Amsterdam vacation unforgettable by mixing up your time in the capital. Combine sightseeing in the city with a day trip to the surrounding windmills, tulip fields and quaint villages.
Whether you want to indulge in beer-tasting or uncover the country’s rich heritage, be sure to save this guide on the top day trips from Amsterdam.