Amsterdam the Netherlands Day Trips

Escape the Canals: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s charm is undeniable, but sometimes a change of scenery is just what you need. Luckily, this vibrant city offers easy access to a variety of destinations for a fun and enriching day trip.

Here are some of the best day trips in Amsterdam:

1. Zaanse Schans (30 minutes by bus/car from Amsterdam)

  • What it’s known for: Authentic Dutch windmills, charming wooden houses, and traditional crafts & industries.
  • Why visit: Experience a living history museum with real working windmills, historic buildings, and demonstrations of cheesemaking, clog crafting, and other historical crafts.
  • Getting there: Take a bus from Amsterdam Centraal Station (approximately 30 minutes) or a scenic train ride to Zaandam.

2. Haarlem (15 minutes by train from Amsterdam)

  • What it’s known for: Its rich history, charming architecture, and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Why visit: Explore the Grote Markt (main square), Frans Hals Museum (home to the Dutch Masters), and the charming canals & cobblestone streets.
  • Getting there: Take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Haarlem (approximately 15 minutes).

**3. Rotterdam (40 minutes by train from Amsterdam) **

  • What it’s known for: Modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene.

  • Getting there: Easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Centraal (around 40 minutes).

  • Why visit: Discover a modern city with innovative architecture, museums like the Kunsthal and the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and bustling markets. Visit the iconic Cube Houses or explore the impressive harbor.

Zaanse Schans is a great place to see traditional Dutch life, but getting there by train is the best way to experience it. The journey from Amsterdam to Zandvoort (beach town) takes approximately 40 minutes on a direct train.

Why it’s perfect for a day trip: Spend a relaxing day at the beach, enjoy the seaside atmosphere, and explore the charming village within the city of Zaandam.

Here are some additional details about these destinations:

  • Zaanse Schans: This historic village is a popular tourist destination known for its traditional Dutch windmills, houses, and workshops. Visitors can tour historic buildings, see demonstrations of traditional crafts like cheesemaking and clog making, and even purchase souvenirs or try their hand at crafting in the workshops themselves.

  • Zandvoort:

    • Beach vibes: Relax on the beach, enjoy a swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles. The beach is wide and sandy, with plenty of space for everyone.
    • Architecture: Explore the unique architecture of the “Grote Markt” area (the market square).

Zandvoort offers a variety of activities for all ages, from swimming and surfing to simply enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning views.

Getting around:

  • ** Haarlem:** Easily accessible by public transportation, including trains and buses.
  • Zaanse Schans: The historical village is a popular spot for a day trip, but consider exploring other nearby towns like Volendam (fishing village) or Volendam (historic harbor).

Other Tips for Your Day Trip:

  • Purchase a train ticket: You can buy a single-day travel pass for public transport in the Netherlands.

  • Plan your itinerary:

    • Research the attractions you want to see and plan your time accordingly.
    • Amsterdam Centraal Station is conveniently located in the heart of the city, with easy access to trains and buses.

  • Pack for the weather: The Dutch weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.

  • Consider a bike tour:

    • Amsterdam is known as a biking city.
    • Rent a bike from a shop near Amsterdam Centraal (there are many) and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace.

  • Check for events: Both Haarlem and the other nearby towns and villages have regular festivals, markets and events, so it’s worth looking into what’s on during your visit.

  • Plan your transportation:

    • The train is a convenient way to get to Haarlem.
    • Authenticity: The Amsterdam Centraal station offers a variety of public transport options to different destinations around Amsterdam.

  • Explore the local scene:

    • Rotterdam: Enjoy the canals and the city’s charming character, explore the vibrant markets in the city center or take a trip to the Kinderdijk windmills (a UNESCO World Heritage site) for a unique experience.

Enjoy your day!

Remember that these are just suggestions.

  • There are many other interesting places to visit from Amsterdam.