Amsterdam offers a gateway to a variety of delightful day trips across the Netherlands, thanks to its well-connected transportation options. From the vibrant tulip fields of Keukenhof to the historic windmills at Zaanse Schans, there's a wealth of Dutch culture and scenery to explore just a short journey from the city.
Other notable destinations include the charming fishing towns along the Ijsselmeer, the open-air museum in Enkhuizen, and the iconic Dutch cheese markets in Alkmaar. For those interested in art and history, the cities of Haarlem, Delft, and Hoorn offer rich experiences. Additionally, the neighboring Belgian cities of Brussels and Bruges are within reach for a day trip.
Discover the top day trips from Amsterdam and plan your next adventure.
1. See the "Garden of Europe": Keukenhof Gardens
Keukenhof Gardens, known as the Garden of Europe, is a must-see destination for flower enthusiasts. Located near Lisse, this 79-acre park showcases over seven million bulbs, including a vast array of tulips. Visitors can enjoy the gardens and various flower-related events throughout the season.
An excursion such as the Keukenhof Gardens and Flower Fields Half Day Tour offers a convenient way to experience the beauty of the Dutch countryside and the gardens themselves.
Official site: https://keukenhof.nl/en/
2. Explore Enkhuizen and the Zuiderzee Museum
Enkhuizen, situated on the Ijsselmeer, boasts historical attractions like the 15th-century churches and the Dromedaris Tower. The Zuiderzee Museum offers insights into the region's maritime history and land reclamation efforts.
3. Visit Alkmaar Cheese Market
Alkmaar is renowned for its traditional Dutch Cheese Market, where visitors can witness the historic cheese trading process and enjoy the town's architectural beauty.
4. Stroll the Streets of Historic Haarlem
Haarlem, a city rich in art history, is home to the Frans Hals Museum and the impressive Grote Kerk. The city's Old City Hall offers guided tours in English.
Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Haarlem
5. See the Historic Windmills at Zaanse Schans Open-Air Museum
Zaanse Schans is a living museum replicating a 17th-century village, complete with functioning windmills and traditional crafts like cheese-making and clog-making.
Official site: www.dezaanseschans.nl/en/
6. The Canal City of Bruges
Bruges, Belgium, is famous for its canals, medieval market hall, and well-preserved architecture. Visitors can explore the city by boat or on foot.
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bruges
7. Beautiful Brussels
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is known for its grand Grand Place and a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture.
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Brussels
8. Delft
Delft is celebrated for its blue and white porcelain and historical Old Town. The Royal Delft factory offers tours showcasing the traditional pottery-making process.
Official site: www.royaldelft.com/en_gb/
9. The Delta Works and the Maeslant Barrier
The Maeslant Barrier is part of the Delta Works, a series of constructions built to protect the Netherlands from flooding. The Keringhuis visitor center offers tours and information.
Official site: www.keringhuis.nl/english
10. Hoorn
Hoorn is a historic town with a waterfront lined with gabled houses, museums, and the old Town Hall, a testament to its rich maritime past.
11. Kampen
Kampen, a former Hanseatic trading hub, is known for its well-preserved 15th-century Town Gates and the Tower of the Holy Ghost.
12. Medemblik by Steam Train
Medemblik is accessible via a heritage steam train from Hoorn. The town features historical sites like Kasteel Radboud and the Dutch Steam Engine Museum.
Official site: www.stoomtram.nl/en/
