best cities to visit from amsterdam

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15 Cities Near Amsterdam: The Best Dutch Cities to Visit

There are so many cities near amsterdam worth visiting here are some of my favorites.

After visiting Amsterdam several times, I realized that the train transportation makes it so easy to visit other cities in the Netherlands. We’re talking like- some cities I’ve visited are within a 15-minute train ride from Centraal Station!

Plus, while traveling through the Netherlands, I have found the locals to be so friendly and welcoming. And the Dutch speak English so well , making it so incredibly easy to visit cities nearby Amsterdam.

Sometimes, you just need to get outside the city of Amsterdam and visit a few locations that are less popular! Based on my time traveling in the Netherlands, I’ve put together this list of the cities close to Amsterdam that are worth visiting, from charming small towns like Volendam to larger cities like Rotterdam. I’ve also included how to get there and the best things to do in each area .

My Picks: Top 3 Amsterdam to Germany Day Trips!

# 1 Pick: Haarlem (Little Amsterdam and WWII History!) #2 Pick: Volendam (Adorable Character & Great Seafood!) #3 Pick: Ghent (In Belgium- the Cutest, Most-Walkable CIty!)

Cities Close to Amsterdam

The following are the best cities near Amsterdam to visit. These are all reachable with a direct train from Amsterdam and take less than a 1.5-hour journey. Perfect for a weekend getaway !

Haarlem is the closest city to Amsterdam, and it is only a 20-minute train ride to get there. The city of Haarlem has a rich history and was once an important port city along the North Sea.

Today, the city has a village-like feel to it and still has much of its medieval architecture including cobblestone streets and gabled houses. I honestly love just walking around Haarlem- it feels like a tiny Amsterdam.

It is also famous for being a central point of the tulip bulb growing trade, and for the many tulip fields that surround the city. It is also well-known for being the location of the “Hiding Place” where Corrie Ten Boom and her family hid during the Holocaust.

Some of the best things to do when visiting Haarlem include taking a canal boat ride , wandering through the Grote Market Square, and visiting the historic Windmill De Adriaan .

Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands. It is located south of Amsterdam, and it takes around 30 minutes to get there by train.

Historically, Utrecht was once the most important city in the Netherlands- until it was surpassed by Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden Age. Now, it is known for being a university town and is home to Utrecht University. 

Similar to Amsterdam, Utrecht has a series of canals that run through the city. It also has a historic city center that features one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands : the well-preserved Dom Tower, a 14th-century bell tower.

In addition to exploring Utrecht’s historic center, another popular place to visit is Castle De Haar which is the largest castle in the Netherlands.

3. The Hague

The Hague is the capital of the province of South Holland and is the official seat of the government of the Netherlands- even though it isn’t the official capital of the Netherlands. The Hague is easy to reach by train from Amsterdam, and the journey takes 45 minutes.

The Hague has gained the nickname of “City of International Peace and Justice” because it is also where the United Nations International Court of Justice is located.

Some of the best things to do in The Hague include visiting one of the many museums, such as the Mauritshuis or the Escher in Het Paleis.

As The Hague is located on the North Sea, there is also an 11km sandy beach that is perfect for visiting in the summer months.

4. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the 2nd largest city in the Netherlands and is an important port city. Rotterdam is close to Amsterdam, about a 40-minute train ride away.

Unlike some of the other cities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is much more modern. This is because the city was basically flattened during WWII and has been completely rebuilt. 

Rotterdam is definitely a popular Dutch city, and it is famous for its innovative modern architecture like the  Erasmusbrug bridge.

Some of the best things to do include taking a boat tour around the famous harbor, visiting the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, or going up the Euromast observation tower for panoramic views.

5. Arnhem (Feels like a smaller, adorable city near Amsterdam)

Arnhem is a smaller city, located on the eastern side of the Netherlands near the German border . It takes around 1 hour to get there from Amsterdam by train, but it is such a worthwhile trip!

Arnhem became famous during WWII as the site of the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, which was one of the largest airborne operations in history.

One of the best things to do here is visit the Arnhem War Museum or the Airbornemuseum , which both focus on WWII and the Battle of Arnhem.  These museums are extremely unique, and one even has an immersive experience in the basement; I enjoyed them a lot! There’s also plenty to do in Arnhem as far as walking around and exploring the city goes. We had a lovely little visit here a few years back, and I would absolutely go again.

⭐ If you’re a history buff, I 10/10 recommend this private WWII walking Tour in Arnhem!

6. Eindhoven

Eindhoven is a city in the southern part of the Netherlands, about a 1 hour and 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam.

The city is a modern technology and design hub and is where Phillips Electronics originated. 

Don’t leave Eindhoven without catching a game at the Phillips Stadium, or walking around the Strijp-S neighborhood which has transformed old Philips factories into trendy bars, restaurants, and shops.

Delft is a city in the South Holland province and is around a 1-hour train ride from Amsterdam.

Delft is famous for its ceramic Delft Blue pottery which dates back to the 16th century. Today, Delft Blue pottery is a popular souvenir and one of the things the Netherlands is known for .

The city of Delft is surrounded by canals, medieval architecture, and historic monuments. Some of the best things to do include visiting Market Square, Old Church, New Church, and the City Hall. Another must-do is to visit the Royal Delft Museum and Factory.

Cities Further From Amsterdam, the Netherlands

These cities are a bit further away, but still close enough to travel to from Amsterdam in less than 2.5 hours.

8. Groningen

Groningen is such an adorable city near Amsterdam. It is the largest city in the northern part of the Netherlands and is around a 2-hour train ride from Amsterdam. 

The city has a great cultural scene with several museums worth visiting such as the Groninger Museum and Northern Maritime Museum. Another must-see location is the Martinitoren, which is the tallest church steeple in the country.

Throughout the year, there are many events and festivals held in the city, at places like the MartiniPlaza arena.

9. Maastricht

Maastricht is a city near Amsterdam that is located in the southeastern region of the country, just on the border of Belgium. It takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach by train from Amsterdam.

 Maastricht is mostly a university city, so there is plenty to do. In addition to its nightlife scene , it has medieval architecture and cobblestone streets that are in line with the old Dutch character.

Things to do here include visiting the 18th-century Sint Pieter Fort, walking through the Maastricht Underground Caves (so cool!), or, my personal favorite, tasting some Dutch beer at Bosch Brewery .

Smaller Cities or Towns Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting

The places below are smaller towns near Amsterdam (technically not cities) that have a lot of Dutch charm and are worth visiting.

10. Volendam

Ugh- I just love Volendam. Volendam is a small town located on Markermeer Lake. It is about a 45-minute journey by bus from Amsterdam, which makes it a great day trip. A trip to Volendam is often tacked on to guided tours of Zaanse Schans or Marken because it is nearby. But it is so different than the other places in the Netherlands you might have experienced.

The town is known for its colorful houses and harbor filled with old fishing boats. Some must-do activities when visiting include taking a walk around the harbor, trying some fresh seafood (it’s everywhere!), and visiting the Volendam Museum.

⭐ This tour is my personal favorite (have done it more than once!) and visits Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Edam, and Marken in just a half day!

Gouda is a town famous for its delicious Gouda Cheese, which is sold around the world. Located south of Amsterdam, Gouda is easy to reach by train in about 1 hour.

Do I even need to say that when visiting Gouda, trying the Gouda cheese is an absolute must-do? Obviously. One of the best places to do this is at the Gouda Cheese Experience , which is a tour that will take you through the history and process of cheese making, as well as a cheese tasting. Gouda also has the world-famous Gouda Cheese Market (just what you wanted- more cheese!). It is such a unique experience to walk through this market- highly recommend!

Leiden is a university town, which is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands. It is an easy day trip from Amsterdam and takes only 35 minutes by train. Leiden is a great option for getting away from some of the hustle and bustle in Amsterdam, but still seeing a town that has so much of the old canal feeling that Amsterdma has.

Leiden was the birthplace of Rembrandt, a famous Dutch Golden Age painter. For those interested in art history, you can even visit the Young Rembrandt Studio Museum.

Other things to do include exploring the canals on a boat ride, visiting the Museum de Lakenhal, or checking out the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, which is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands.

Cities Near Amsterdam: Countries Other Than the Netherlands

Amsterdam is also located relatively close to other countries such as Belgium. Below, you will find 3 Belgian cities that can be visited as a day trip from Amsterdam.

13. Antwerp

Antwerp is a city in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is located around 1 hour and 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, making it an easy day trip option.

The city is known for its Diamond District, which houses thousands of diamond traders and has been around for centuries. For those interested in diamonds checking out the DIVA Diamond Museum is a must-do.

Other things to do in Antwerp include seeing the Flemish-style architecture at the Grote Market and visiting the famous Ruben House to check out the Flemish artwork.

14. Brussels

Spoiler Alert: I don’t love Brussels (eek- I said it!) But, nonetheless, Brussels is the capital city of Belgium, so many people want to visit it. There is a direct train to Brussels from Amsterdam, which takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

A must-do when visiting Brussels is to visit some of the famous landmarks like the Grand Place, which is the central square. It is surrounded by 17th-century guild houses and the City Hall, and it really is just a magnificent place to take in. It feels epic to stand there. 

Other things to do include visiting the Royal Palace of Brussels or the Parc du Cinquantenaire, and tasting some delicious Belgian food such as Belgium Waffles or Frites. Seriously- eat all of the Belgian waffles you can- ha! But whatever you do, don’t leave Brussels without popping into one of the many chocolatiers around the Grand Place. Chocolate is truly like an art form here, and, look…I’m not even a “chocolate” person…and it was still delicious.

Ghent is one of the cities I most under-estimated in Europe. It is only 2.5 hours by train from Amsterdam, and it is so incredible.  During medieval times, Ghent was an important city-state and today is a university town that has a well-preserved historic center. It was the perfect day trip for me, and we walked around the old streets, visiting random stores and restaurants all day long.

A few of the best things to do are visit the 12th-century Gravensteen Castle (so amazing! There’s tons to see), take a canal tour, or try some of the famous Belgian beers. I also definitely recommend you enter St. Bavos Cathedral and try the Virtual Reality (VR) tour in the basement- it was so informative and a really unique experience that we will remember forever!

FAQ: Cities Near Amsterdam

What cities is amsterdam close to.

Amsterdam is in the western part of the Netherlands, in the Randstad region. Several other cities in this region are near Amsterdam, including Utrecht, The Hague, Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, and Rotterdam.

What countries are close to Amsterdam by train?

Amsterdam is close to several other countries, and it is easy to reach these places by train. The Netherlands borders Belgium and Germany, but France and Luxembourg are also close to Amsterdam by train. From Amsterdam, it takes about 2 hours by train to reach Brussels, hours to reach Cologne, and 3.5 hours to reach Paris.

What town is 20 minutes from Amsterdam?

Haarlem is located only 20 minutes from Amsterdam by train. Haarlem was once a major North Sea trading port, and today it retains its historic, village-like atmosphere. It is also known for its flower-bulb-growing district and for the tulip fields that surround the town.

Wrapping Up: Best Cities Near Amsterdam to Visit

There are so many great cities near Amsterdam that are worth visiting, whether you are looking to experience a modern Dutch city or a quaint historic town. 

Since there are so many cities close to Amsterdam, you can easily base yourself there and take day trips or spend a few nights in one of these other Dutch cities. In fact, I totally recommend you do this to make the most out of your Amsterdam itinerary !

Either way, it is a great idea to head outside of Amsterdam to explore one of these other places to get a better feel for Dutch culture.

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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8 EASY Weekend Trips from Amsterdam to Other Countries

• January 21, 2018

Why would you want to take a weekend trip from Amsterdam? So many reasons! You could live in Amsterdam as we do. Perhaps you are a local or an expat that lives in the Netherlands and it’s easy to get to Amsterdam as a starting point. Maybe you are in the city for work for an extended period of time and you want to make the most of the experience. Or maybe you are making Amsterdam your base for a longer European adventure!

This post contains affiliate links.

Whatever your personal reason for wanting to use Amsterdam as your jumping off point, there are an amazing amount of quick weekend trips to be had that are short flights or train journeys from Amsterdam. It’s super easy to get around Europe thanks to a well-connected central train station and an easy (and cheap to get to) international airport.

Related: Day trips from Amsterdam

Weekend trip #1 // Amsterdam to London

How to get there: Quick flights ( Check flight prices ) are about 50 minutes or the international train, the Eurostar takes just over 4.5 hours. Though a new and faster line is coming. Exciting times!

Somehow, I actually don’t write much about London even though I go often as it’s one of my favorite places to go from Amsterdam. Last year I went four times! It is such an interesting and large place with so much going on. I’ve taken a couple of food tours: one in SoHo and one by the London Bridge so that I could get introduced to proper British food. Every time I go, I try to make a reservation for an afternoon tea. I like Scoff & Banter Tea Rooms because of the variety and fancy-pants factor, but we did try the Alice in Wonderland one too. Sadly, I enjoyed the show part of it over the actual eating part. At least it was fun!

There are so many neighborhoods that I keep exploring and finding new ones. I’ll walk around and think “I could live here.” Then I go to another part of the city and think, “Nope, this is the perfect spot.”. 

Then, I laugh at myself because I’ll never be able to live in the center of London! Besides, I’m perfectly happy with the house we bought in Amsterdam . To be fair, I never thought that could happen either. Isn’t life a funny thing?

Anyway, back to London. If you like history there are plenty of museums and even non-museum places to enjoy. But sometimes it’s nice to just look at the city. Look at Buckingham Palace. Look at the Parliament Building. Look at Tower Bridge. Other times it’s nice to dive into the culture on Carnaby Street, or in SoHo. Walking in the area of Little Venice is so nice and relaxing and climbing up Primrose Hill is perfect for an awesome view.

With so many options, you might want to think about what kind of accommodation you want before you even start looking. But check out a full listing of hotels to see what fits you best. This is such an easy trip from Amsterdam when you fly from Schiphol airport to London City Airport because you are already in the city!

Hint: Stay near a subway or train station and stay farther out to pay a little less but not be too inconvenienced.

Weekend Getaway #2 // Amsterdam to Paris, France

How to get there: Quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about 1 hour and 15 minutes or the Thalys train that takes 3 hours and 18 minutes.

I try to do this every year so I’m definitely partial to this one. Even though I’m not in love with Paris like many people are, I still love visiting as a weekend getaway from Amsterdam. 

Yeah, I don’t understand myself either. Then again, I love to eat real French food every once in a while and my favorite tea brand is there! There’s just something about walking around Paris. The best thing is when you discover your spots…the places you like the most for whatever reason.

One of my favorite things that I’ve done in Paris was to grab an eclair, go to the big grassy area called Esplanade des Invalides with Edna  and hang out. So simple, yet so nice.

It’s always nice to get a good view of the iconic landmarks in Paris. Though I haven’t put together a post on this, Edna did! She also has a lot of article on Paris in general, so definitely check those out. Stay an extra day and make a long weekend out of the trip!

Weekend Excursion #3 // Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland

How to get there: Quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

For a quick weekend trip, hopefully, you’d be able to just take a carry-on. In that case, there are always super cheap flights to get there. It’s also very quick and easy to get to the city from the airport by bus so you don’t waste time.

If you like old town centers and bridges that give you the most incredible views, Basel will not disappoint. Even in the winter when most people don’t think to come to Europe it is such a beautiful place no matter when you are able to visit. Being able to walk around and see so many beautiful places and buildings makes it a great escape. The pace is calm and there is plenty of places to eat and drink once you are ready for a break.

If you stay in a Basel hotel, you get the Basel pass which gives you free public transit and discounts around town. Now, that’s a nice bonus and adds a bit of value to your trip.

Weekend Getaway #4 // Amsterdam to Lisbon, Portugal

How to get there: Quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about 3 hours which isn’t bad for a long weekend.

There are so many flights from Amsterdam to Lisbon, but also, it’s a quick ride from the airport to the center of town.

I don’t know about you, but everyone I know has been talking about Lisbon for the past year. It’s for a good reason! With the pretty great weather, amazing food, and the treat of Vinho Verde, it’s a great place to be.

Take a food tour to discover the flavors of Portugal , make a reservation at a delicious restaurant that is known for their seafood, and grab a drink and sit waterside to enjoy the sunshine. It’s one of those places that you can easily find touristy things to do , or just sit back and relax. 

Weekend Trip #5 // Amsterdam to Berlin, Germany

How to get there: Quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about an hour and 25 minutes.

Oh, Berlin! Berlin is such a popular destination for so many reasons. It has a great vibe, clubbing, its own unique culture, and the food scene is definitely growing. Summer is the best time to go since festivals in parks being very popular. Food trucks, music, and green grass all come together to create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Hardly seems fair to think about if you are currently experiencing not-so-friendly weather.

For a weekend away, there are a ton of possibilities of what to get into , but I’ll leave that part up to you. What’s awesome about Berlin is that the variety makes it so that there is something for all us travelers. Indoor museums, outdoor events, historical significance, and so on. It’s easy to go back for multiple trips and always have something new to discover. Discover the best place to stay that fits you best!

Weekend Trip #6 // Amsterdam to Warsaw, Poland

How to get there: Quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about 2 hours

Warsaw isn’t always the first place that comes to mind for a weekend trip, or even as a short break from Amsterdam. But with a direct flight, a stunning old town, a castle and lots to see, why wouldn’t you go? Since a weekend isn’t super long and you want to have your money stretch farther, it’s a good thing it’s cheap to get from the airport to the old town center (less than €1) by bus and takes less than one house. If you’re more concerned about time than money, a taxi or Uber is always an option as well.

Agness in Warsaw’s old town.

Our friend Agness from eTramping.com has put together a full post here on A Wanderlust For Life on what to do in Warsaw over a weekend . Don’t forget about the food! Over on their blog, they have a drool-worthy post of their favorite Polish dishes .

Weekend Trip #7 // Amsterdam to Groningen, Netherlands

How to get there: By train( Check train prices ) about 2 hours

We all love Amsterdam, it’s just one of those places you have to experience. But when you want to see stunning Dutch architecture in a small city with lots of energy, but without all the tourists, Groningen is a perfect weekend getaway from Amsterdam. It’s a university town, so it’s incredibly lively without being overwhelming. See the full post we wrote up about planning a weekend in Groningen .

You easily get that local feeling by simply strolling down the street. When you start getting peckish, pop into one of the many restaurants available. Because it’s a city with a younger population, the offerings range from traditional to eccentric. There’s something for everyone here. I found it to be a super relaxing place to be with plenty to do if you want, but nothing that gives you FOMO. It’s a nice balance.

Find the right accommodation for you in Groningen.

Weekend Trip #8 // Amsterdam to Hamburg, Germany

How to get there:  Super-quick flight ( Check flight prices ) about an hour long.

You may notice that this is the second time I’ve mentioned Germany, but Hamburg is quite different (and pretty far) from Berlin. It’s one of those places that truly surprised me with how cool it really is. You’ll find some great activities to do and areas to visit. My favorite is down by the water, but the old town with its stunning buildings is pretty spectacular as well.

This probably isn’t a shock to anyone, but one of my favorite parts was the variety of food. We ate at so many amazing spots all over the city, from pulled pork bbq to fine dining, to a breakfast worthy of getting up early, this city has it all. Read about all our favorite spots including things to do in our post all about a weekend in Hamburg . Don’t forget to find a place to lay your head down each night.

Wh ile there are many great options all over Europe, I really think these are perfect for quick trips to be able to get a nice taste of that city. Visitors to Amsterdam can use the city as a hub and still get a really great European experience while exploring more cultures, food, and iconic sights. And those who are local have easy access to great travel opportunities just by living in or around a city like Amsterdam. 

I hope I have inspired you! Whether you are taking weekend trips from Amsterdam, or from where you are right now, take the opportunity to use a weekend to explore something new. 🙂

What do you think? Would you take quick trips to these places or do you have other ideas?

Wishing you love and travels!

Hi! I’m Jessica, an American who made Amsterdam her home in 2014. I share European gems through food and memorable experiences. Want to know more? Head to my about page or check out my YouTube channel .

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Want to know what other Cities you can visit when you are in Amsterdam?

You have found the right place!

I live in Maastricht and have explored many of the cities around The Netherlands from Amsterdam by train and car.

From weekend breaks to regularly visiting these cities for shopping, concerts and epic places to eat, they are a great way to spend your time outside of Amsterdam.

And honestly, there are so many places you can go, but which cities are the best?

From stunning canals to wonderful windmills, there are so many amazing places to visit easily by train, car and bus. My favourites include Maastricht and Zutphen but there are so many others I love too! 🤩

So let’s jump in and help you explore the best Dutch cities and other European gems near Amsterdam during your next trip!

Want to go on the best day trip from Amsterdam?

Book Yourself Onto This Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Tour , it is incredible! 😍

✔️Local Guide & Driver

✔️See A typical Dutch Clog Shop & Cheese Factory

✔️Boat Trip Around The Venice of the North

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► Car Rental – I Always Use DiscoverCars.Com

► City Pass – GoCity.Com

► Travel Insurance – SafetyWing.Com For Long Term & TravelInsuranceMaster.Com For Short Trips!

The Best Cities Near Amsterdam: Quick Guide

If you are in a hurry, these are the best cities you should consider exploring when visiting the Dutch Capital:

📍 Maastricht – It takes just over 2 hours by train or car to reach my home and is unlike other Dutch cities!

📍 The Hague – In 45 minutes you can reach the city that is great for foodies and visiting the beach from Amsterdam.

📍 Utrecht – It’s easiest to take the 1-hour train to get to this city with canalside restaurants and epic shopping.

What are the best cities close to Amsterdam to visit?

Thanks to the fantastic location of the Netherlands’ capital city, you can explore Europe and beyond in next to no time.

There are so many amazing Dutch cities you can easily explore in a day. And there are plenty of cities near Amsterdam by train!

If you are visiting during winter and want a glimpse of snow, these are great options because Amsterdam doesn’t get a lot of snowfall.

To plan the ultimate day trip, here are some of the most beautiful cities nearby Amsterdam that you should visit:

1. The Hague

The Hague is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam and should be at the top of any traveller’s list.

It is home to a stunning historical centre packed with Dutch traditions, architecture and tourist attractions.

What makes it even better is that it remains much calmer than many other European cities, making it ideal for exploring without feeling overcrowded.

If you’re looking for peaceful canalside strolls, mesmerizing art galleries or breathtaking views, look no further than The Hague – there’s something for everyone!

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to visit from Amsterdam.

With frequent high-speed trains , you can go from one city to the other in just over an hour. It is easily one of the top cities close to Amsterdam by train and public transport!

This is one of the most popular day trips from Amsterdam but if you have time, book a hotel and stay overnight!

🧇 I Highly Recommend Booking This Hague Food Walking Tour!

This happens to be one of my favourite cities to visit close to Amsterdam!

Located less than 33 Km northwest of Amsterdam, this vibrant city offers a variety of attractions and activities worth exploring. For a breath of fresh air from Amsterdam, Haarlem might just be the place for you too.

With its charming canals, gorgeous architecture and relaxed atmosphere, this quaint city will provide you with the perfect getaway from urban hustle and bustle.

It’s also filled with fascinating museums, charming coffee shops and easy access to the countryside’s lush parks and canals, you’ll want to make sure your itinerary includes a visit to Haarlem when travelling to Amsterdam.

My favourite place to eat here is The Hive which does amazing honey-based drinks and food 😍

For anyone looking for places near Amsterdam where you can relax but still have plenty to do, add Haarlem to your list.

✅ Book Your Private Haarlem Tour With A Local Guide Here!

You probably hear this about most Dutch and European cities, but you really need to add this one to your itinerary!

Zwolle is one of the most remarkable cities not far from Amsterdam and is really easy to get to. The journey takes around an hour by train and it is one of the most scenic ones in The Netherlands.

It is one of the places near Amsterdam I would tell everyone to visit ASAP because it is so fantastic (I nearly moved here!)

Visitors can rent a boat around the beautiful canals for just 20 euros and enjoy incredible views overlooking centuries-old city walls.

There is also a boat on the water where you can get snacks, drinks and even a bottle of wine to take around with you without leaving your boat!

You don’t see this much in any of the other cities across the Netherlands and this is one of the reasons many Dutchies love Zwolle.

Zwolle’s weekend market is not to be missed if you want to try some traditional Dutch delicacies .

Here you will find things like smoked sausages and traditional Dutch cookies or the best freshly baked bread from local bakers. You will also find plenty of food stalls where you can buy freshly made stroopwafels and kibbeling.

The locals around the city are so welcoming, so try to practice some Dutch phrases before you arrive, it will go a long way!

And if you visit in the summer they create a really awesome beach area where you can get drinks and food.

If you’re looking for an amazing vacation spot but don’t want to travel too far away from Amsterdam, then Utrecht is the perfect place for you!

I love Utrecht and is one of my favourite day trips from Amsterdam 😍

No matter where you get a train from in the Netherlands, you will be able to find a train to Utrecht as it is known as the meeting point for the Netherlands. So if you want a quick day trip from Amsterdam or you want to explore more of the Netherlands, Utrecht is a fantastic city!

From paddleboarding down the canals or taking a romantic boat trip around the city, you will not run out of places with incredible sites either.

With its charming architecture and flourishing canals, you will be blown away by how beautiful Utrecht is. And the best thing is that there is so much to do here!

And if you are like me and love eating in unique places , climb down the canal steps to find many amazing bars and restaurants.

For the ultimate tour of Utrecht, I cannot recommend this 5-star rated walking tour enough 😍

This tour guide is just the best and helps you learn about the city and the best things to do if you only have a few hours to explore!

✅ Check Out The Reviews & Availability For The Utrecht Walking Tour Here!

I have only just recently visited Zutphen and I am so mad at myself for not doing it sooner!

Located along the Ijssel River in Gelderland province, Zutphen is one of the best cities to visit from Amsterdam for a chilled-out atmosphere and historic sites .

This stunning beauty is a medieval town located just over an hour away, making it an easily accessible escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

From strolling along its cobblestone streets and taking picturesque snapshots to immerse yourself in its rich history and culture, a day trip from Amsterdam to Zutphen will have you spoilt for choice!

6. Maastricht

Now we can’t talk about the best cities to visit in The Netherlands without talking about my home city , Maastricht!

It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach here by car or train from Amsterdam.

Coming from the UK it took me a while to get my head around the road system and I like avoiding traffic so tend to opt for the train.

Most Dutch cities have the same esthetic and kinda look the same but the most southern city in the whole of the country is different.

With its Roman Bridge, ancient city walls and long history, this is the place where many Dutch people take weekend breaks.

It’s also a magical place to visit in Winter to make sure you pack your warm clothes !

There are a few things you need to do here to have the ultimate Maastricht experience. This includes trying local Rijstevlaai – Dutch Rice Pie (for the best one, visit Peter Lemmens )

You should also hire bikes from the train station, follow the cycle path for 20 minutes and cross the border to Belgium.

The route is fairly flat and you pass stunning vineyards and Chateau Neercanne which stores its wines in Maastricht’s underground cave system!

7. Eindhoven

If you are planning on visiting Maastricht from Amsterdam, you are most likely going to have to change trains in Eindhoven. However, I do recommend visiting this city for even a few hours as it has some great places to shop!

To get from Amsterdam to Eindhoven it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes whether you drive or get the train. However, I have always found the train a lot faster.

In this area of the country, you will find a lot of breweries and distilleries which always offer amazing tours. I have been on a few now and I always really enjoy them. If you only have time to do one, visit the Bottle Distillery .

What major cities are nearby Amsterdam?

Thanks to the fantastic transport system surrounding Amsterdam , there are plenty of great places to visit around it.

If you are looking to do a day trip from Amsterdam, here are a few of the major cities nearby that you should consider visiting:

➡️ 35 km to Utrecht

➡️ 158 Km to Antwerp, Belgium

➡️ 72.5 Km to Gouda

➡️ 52 km to The Hague

➡️ 202 Km to Essen, Germany

➡️ 57 km to Rotterdam

➡️ 38 Km to Zandvoort

FAQS about cities close to Amsterdam

I’m sure you have a few more questions about which cities you should visit from Amsterdam. To help you plan your next city break, here are the most frequently asked questions rounded up for you:

What countries are close to Amsterdam by train?

Amsterdam is well-connected to Europe by train, making it a great destination for easy day trips! In just over 2 hours from Amsterdam Central Station, you can reach Belgium and Germany .

There are also plenty of other places to visit from Amsterdam by train. In just over 4 hours you can also reach France and the UK which is great for a weekend break.

Exploring Europe from Amsterdam is a great option for all with affordable fares and frequent schedules throughout the week. It also makes seeing more than one destination on your journey a lot easier.

Which European city is closest to Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is very central to many European cities in the Netherlands and beyond. Only 57 Km away is the vibrant Dutch city of Rotterdam . The next closest European city to Amsterdam that is not in the Netherlands is Antwerp in Belgium (158 Km).

These destinations are really easy to reach by train from Amsterdam and a great way to see other European cities whilst staying in Amsterdam.

How close are Amsterdam and Germany?

Well, this does depend on which part of Germany you want to reach, the distance from Amsterdam to the German border is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. But this will change based on multiple things like where in Germany you are going and how you are getting there.

One of the closest major cities in Germany to Amsterdam is  Essen which takes 2 hours to reach.

Is Amsterdam close to Budapest?

Budapest is roughly 1145 km from Amsterdam so is not very close. There are no direct trains to each city either so the most popular way to travel between them is to fly.

Is Amsterdam close to Barcelona?

If you want to take the train to Barcelona from Amsterdam you are looking at a 12-hour journey as the cities are not very close to each other.

The distance from Amsterdam to Barcelona is approximately 1238 km so many people prefer to visit for a long weekend. The drive time is also pretty long so if you want to get between the two cities quickly, your best option is to fly.

Is Amsterdam close to Paris?

Paris isn’t one of the closest cities to Amsterdam (510 km away)but thanks to the train services, you can get there pretty easily. With multiple trains a day running from Holland to France, you can make it from Amsterdam to Paris in just four hours .

And if you want to explore Europe at your own pace, you can drive to France and Paris pretty easily.

Just make sure you have a French driving kit before setting off!

Cities close to Amsterdam final thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the city, Amsterdam has many different surrounding areas that are perfect for day trips.

This guide provides you with an overview of the best cities to visit near Amsterdam, Netherlands. From Utrecht to The Hague, there’s plenty to see and do just outside of the city limits.

No matter which cities you decide to visit, you are guaranteed to most amazing time. But if you want an experience like no other, stop by my home city of Maastricht!

I hope you found this article useful, to help you explore the rest of Europe here are some more relevant posts:

✔️ Should I Book The Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam? Review And Alternative Options

✔️ The Best EasyJet Cabin Bag For Your Next Flight

✔️ What Do You Need To Know About Driving In Europe In Winter? The Complete Guide

✔️ The Best Cabin Baggage For Ryanair Flights

✔️ Holocaust Tours In Europe That You Should Book For

✔️ The Best Day Bags For All Types Of Travel

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

Related Posts

Should I Book The Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam? 2024 Review

The 21 Most Unique Places To Visit In Europe 2024

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The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren’t Amsterdam)

We all love 'Dam, but there are plenty of other Dutch cities to explore. From Rotterdam to Utrecht, these are some of the best

Photograph: Shutterstock

When I tell people that I’m from the Netherlands , the first thing they mention is Amsterdam . And hey, I get it, Amsterdam rocks. But the city has got pretty overrun with tourists recently, and the government there has even been  trying to convince them to stay away altogether . 

So how about seeing what else is out there? The rest of the Netherlands is beautiful, expansive and full of good food and culture, and it’s just waiting to be explored. From Ameland to Rotterdam, we’ve rounded up all the best cities that should be on your radar this year. Ready to give it a go? Here’s where to visit in the Netherlands. 

RECOMMENDED: 🛤 The best  day trips from Amsterdam 🇪🇺 The most  underrated destinations in Europe 🌆 The best  European city breaks to try this year

Fleurine Tideman is a freelance writer based in Rotterdam and London.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best Dutch cities to visit

1.  rotterdam.

Let me immediately state my bias: I’m a proud resident of Rotterdam . Aside from its thriving art scene, Rotterdam is a foodie’s dream destination, with buzzy food markets like the Markthal and Fenix Food Factory . As a large part of the city was destroyed in WW2, Rotterdam is also home to unique architecture. Many local architects were given free rein when it came to rebuilding the city, which has made Rotterdam the vibrant and unique city it is today, with an aesthetic that seamlessly blends new and old.

2.  Haarlem

If you’re looking to stay close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is your best choice. This quaint city is a 16-minute train ride from the capital, and far cheaper to stay in – many Amsterdam residents end up moving here to commute to the capital, although Haarlem itself has plenty to offer. You can easily spend an afternoon in the Frans Hals Museum learning more about this legendary Dutch painter. Outside of the city, you’ll find endless tulip fields to serve as a backdrop for your holiday photos – just be sure to ask the farmers for permission first!

3.  's-Hertogenbosch

Don’t worry, nobody’s expecting you to be able to pronounce that! Even the Dutch find it too tiresome to say, so we usually shorten it to Den Bosch. The perfect city break for those looking to soak up some history and culture, Den Bosch is known for its great museums, including the Het Noordbrabants Museum and Design Museum Den Bosch , as well as its medieval architecture and fortified city walls. People from across the region flock here for the markets on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Be sure to sample a traditional Bossche bol, which is essentially a huge profiterole covered in chocolate –  lekker !

4.  Maastricht

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the south of the Netherlands. Maastricht, with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets, feels like it was plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale. Bordering Belgium, the city offers a unique blend of Dutch and Belgian culture and architecture. My perfect afternoon? Visit Boekhandel Dominicanen to shop for books in a converted medieval church, then head to Bosch Brewery for a tour and classic beer tasting.

5.  Arnhem

Visiting Arnhem will allow you to combine your city break with a touch of nature, as the city is surrounded by countryside and situated beside the Veluwe, one of the Netherlands’ largest national parks. Look out for w ildlife like deer, foxes and Scottish Highland cattle, which were brought here to maintain the heathland. The city itself is known  for its vibrant art scene: Arnhem’s Museum of Modern Art  is a must-visit, as is the Netherlands Open Air Museum , which showcases traditional Dutch farmhouses and windmills. Get to know the city by wandering its  shopping streets or joining a guided street art tour. 

6.  Utrecht

Instead of visiting Amsterdam, why not head to ‘Little Amsterdam’ instead? With its rows of cute Dutch houses and terraces perched along the canals,  Utrecht feels like a shrunk-down version of Amsterdam without the crowds of tourists.  The best way to explore Utrecht is through a canal boat tour. During my student years there, I loved taking visitors along the canals and introducing them to traditional Dutch pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnauwen . Visit Olivier  for a pint with a twist –  this Belgian beer pub sits within an old church (we do love a church conversion in the Netherlands)!

7.  Ameland

Technically a municipality, Ameland is my favourite of the Dutch Wadden Islands. This tiny stretch of paradise, home to four villages and two nature reserves, feels like it was plucked from the past. Visiting Ameland always makes me feel like I’m the main character in a movie, pensively strolling along sand dunes, marshes and forests. The best part? It couldn’t feel further away from Amsterdam’s overcrowded streets. 

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Best Day Trips from Amsterdam: 16 Dutch Cities You Need to Visit

Posted on Feb 21, 2020 by Dana Marin

« Previous: Beautiful Nice: Old Town and Castle Hill | Next: Rainy Day in Nice, France »

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If you’re here searching for the best day trip from Amsterdam, look no further: I have a list of 16 beautiful Dutch cities from which you can choose!

One of the best things about visiting the Netherlands is that — given the small distances and the well connected public transport system —  you can basically do a day trip to anywhere in the country. Buses and trains will take you to any major city and, once in the train, you can relax and watch the green fields from your window while you are safely brought to your destination. You can even take your bike with you in the train if you want to!

In this article I gathered all the beautiful Dutch cities that worth a visit. My list would have been bigger so I selected only the cities that have a population over 100.000 people, keeping the smaller ones for another article. Since I moved to the Netherlands I wanted to discover the country, to see what each province has to offer and what kind of people I meet there, which meant many day trips along the years. There is still more of the Netherlands I yet have to see, but that’s good, it means there are still beautiful places I haven’t discovered yet!

My favourite thing about most of the cities listed in this article is the quiet pace, that laid-back atmosphere that you can’t easily find in Amsterdam anymore.

The cities are ordered by the time it takes to get there from Amsterdam Central Station. I also mentioned the province, for each of them, to help you make plans if your starting point is not Amsterdam. If you live in the Netherlands I’m sure you already use the 9292 and NS websites and apps, but if you are a tourist, add them to your agenda and don’t hesitate to use them to plan your trips. Now let’s start with the list.

Dutch cities you need to visit

1. haarlem : 15-20 min by train from amsterdam. province: north holland..

You won’t even notice when the time passed and the train arrived at the beautiful old station in Haarlem. You could even do just a half-day trip to this city, but if you want to get to know it better, a full day is recommended. The medieval city of Haarlem is a charming destination with its cobblestone streets and historical buildings, canals and windmills. I love the relaxed pace of the city which is only changing on Saturdays: it’s market day! The main square is covered with stalls and the streets are buzzing with people. The Spaarne river runs through the city of Haarlem and you could do a cruise, if you’d like, or just walk along it, looking for the perfect café to have a drink.

To see : Grote Markt and Grote Kerk (a 14th century cathedral), De Adriaan Windmill , Frans Hals Museum, T eylers Museum , The Dolhuys (the museum of Mind), Amsterdamse Poort (the old city gate). To do : Stroll the cosy streets and make sure you don’t miss Spaarnwouderstraat, a little street with art galleries. Shopping is also a good idea, if that’s your thing, because Haarlem has a few unique shops that you’ll want to visit. Head for de Gouden Straatjes (the Golden Streets – shopping district) and discover everything they offer! Do a canal cruise , to admire the beautiful architecture from the water level. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : the local newspaper, Oprechte Haerlemsche Courant , is one of the oldest newspapers in the world that are still being published. 

2. Alkmaar : 35 minutes by train from Amsterdam. Province: North Holland

This pretty city is most famous for its traditional cheese market , which takes place on Fridays, from March till September. Yes, visiting the cheese market is a very touristy thing to do, but they put on a special show that worth a visit. And if you are a fan of good cheese, this is the place for you! After the market you can stroll through the city, which is a typical Dutch city with cobblestone streets and gingerbread houses. You can totally skip the market and only visit the city; there are plenty of cheese shops around to buy your cheese. There are also many cute shops where you can find interesting stuff, including lots of vintage design and antiques. Don’t miss “Sweets” Oudhollandse Museum Winkel, a shop that will take you back to 100 years ago. It’s incredibly pretty and cosy and you can have a delicious cake with hot chocolate there.

To see : Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar , Cheese Museum and Beatles Museum, if you have enough time to spend in Alkmaar.  To do :  take a boat tour or a guided walking tour. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : the people who live in Alkmaar are called “kaaskoppen”, which means “cheese heads”, and it’s a reference to the cheese market of Alkmaar. 

3. Utrecht : 40-50 min by train from Amsterdam. Province: Utrecht.

Utrecht is perhaps my favourite place for a day-trip. I fell in love with the city on my first visit there and I always go back with pleasure. Utrecht is a mix of quiet and lively streets and has a certain refreshing feel to it. The canals are something special: they differ from the Amsterdam ones, in the sense that they are on two stories, dug deeper into the streets. Little antiques shops pepper the city and you can spend hours browsing through them, looking for lost treasures. Many cafés and restaurants are tempting you at every corner, but make sure to get acquainted with the rich history and contemporary culture too, by visiting some of the many attractions.

To see : visit Dom Toren and Dom Kerk (St. Martin’s cathedral), to see the city from above; the Pandhof garden (which was part of the old monastery garden), Speelklok Museum (the museum of automatically playing musical instruments , a delight for adults and children alike), The Museum Catharijneconvent (museum of religious art), Nijntje Museum, Railways museum, DOMunder (an underground route to discover the city’s past), or admire the Botanic Garden . To do : walk along the canals (Oude Gracht is the most beautiful), climb the Dom Tower, have a boat ride and dinner at the restaurants next to the canals. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : Residents of Utrecht are unsure if they should be referred to as Utrechters or Utrechtenaars.

4. Leiden : around 40 min by train from Amsterdam. Province: South Holland

Leiden is a university city, packed with historical buildings and monuments. It’s a lovely and peaceful place. Few tourists venture here so you can be the only one around holding a camera, marvelling at the poems on the walls, discovering hidden courtyards and gardens. The old canal system, all six kilometres of it, is still intact and a pretty sight to look at. And if you visit Leiden in spring, you can very well plan a trip to outside the city because it’s sitting right in the middle of the tulip fields area!

To see : Burcht van Leiden (the “Citadel”, a medieval fortress which offers a view over the city), Zijlpoort (old city gate), National Museum of Ethnology , the Botanical Garden , The Walls Poems (Poems painted onto buildings), De Valk Windmill. You can combine the Botanical Garden with a canal cruise . To do : have a drink on the boat platforms. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : it is said that the first Dutch tulip that started the tulip mania was planted in Leiden, at the Botanical Garden.

5. Rotterdam : 40 min with the intercity direct/ 1,15 min with regular train from Amsterdam. Province: South Holland.

To see something different, go to Rotterdam , the largest port in Europe. This is a modern city, almost entirely rebuilt after it was destroyed in the war, and it’s a display of contemporary Dutch architecture at its best. Tall, modern buildings form Rotterdam’s skyline and there’s a large river running through the city. It’s not the typical Dutch city, no brick houses and little canals (apart from Delfshaven, the only part of the old city that survived WWII bombardments), no hoards of tourists roaming around (although their number is increasing every year). It’s more suitable for a weekend trip, to get a proper image of the city, but if you don’t have that time, one day-trip is enough for a sneak peek into the life of this rival of Amsterdam. Innovation is a defining word for Rotterdam, with the municipality designing exciting projects like the floating green islands. There’s art and architecture to discover, harbour and ships, and historical heritage all around. Here you can see the New York Hotel, the place from where the European immigrants used to sail to America (I have a soft spot for places like this).

To see : The Nederlands Fotomuseum , Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (contemporary art museum), Erasmus Bridge and the river Maas, the Old Harbour, the Cube House, the old district of Delfshaven, Euromast . To do : take the water taxi, visit the amazing Markthall (covered market hall), have lunch at a restaurant on the hip Witte de Withstraat, eat pancakes on the water on the PannenkoekenBoat . Getting around : buy a day pass and use the public transport to move between the landmarks, because, unlike other Dutch cities, Rotterdam is big and you can’t easily walk from one place to another. Fun fact : Rotterdam has a statue that was nick-named “ The Buttplug Gnome “, which is actually supposed to represent Santa Claus with a Christmas tree, by artist Paul McCarthy.

6. The Hague : around 50 min by train from Amsterdam. Province: South Holland

Located by the North Sea, The Hague (or Den Haag, in Dutch) is the seat of the Dutch parliament and government, and also the King’s residence . The city has quite a different feel to Amsterdam or the other typical Dutch cities: there are almost no canals, replaced instead by wide streets. The architecture is different, more inclined towards a baroque or classic style. It’s a beautiful city, with a residential feel to it and featuring a beautiful large beach: the nearby sea resort Scheveningen (which is a must see, if you visit The Hague). One day is not enough to see everything, you’ll have to choose what appeals to you the most, or visit multiple times, if you live in the Netherlands.

To see : Mauritshuis (art museum, the place where you can see the famous Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer), Fotomuseum Den Haag , The Escher Museum , Gemeentemuseum, Peace Palace, The Binnenhof (Inner Court), Madurodam , Palace Noordeinde, Panorama Mesdag . To do : Go to the Scheveningen beach, see the Pier , or go shopping. Getting around : on foot in the centre, but there are some points of interest that require taking the tram (for example when going to the beach). Fun fact : The Hague is where the government meets, but it’s not the capital of the Netherlands.

7. Delft : 1 hour by train from Amsterdam. Province: South Holland

Famous for its porcelain, university and its blue heart , Delft is truly a special place. Another one of my favourites, I recommend it wholeheartedly. As in most of the Dutch cities, you should start the visit in the Grote Markt (Central Square), visit the church, take a few photos with the blue heart (I guess this is what you call an instagram worthy spot) and then wander the streets. Delft is the birthplace of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. You can follow his footsteps around the city, visit the Vermeer Center to learn about his life and work, and find his grave in the Oude Kerk (Old Church) or see the place from Vermeer’s “The little Street” painting, which was identified only a few years ago. Delft will charm you for sure with its narrow streets, beautiful canals looking like straight out of a painting, and many cosy shops.

To see : The  Vermeer Centrum or the Museum Prinsenhof, Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk (Niew Church), The Blue Heart (close to the Oude Kerk), Prinsenhof Museum , Delft City Hall, Oostpoort, TU Botanical Garden. To do : Visit Royal Delft to witness the production of the blue Delft porcelain; hunt for antique ceramic shops, get lost on the cobblestone streets and admire the old city and make sure you don’t miss the Oude Canal. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : there’s a tram between Delft and The Hague, and if you are in no hurry you can take the tram from Delft straight to Scheveningen beach.

8. Breda : 1 hour by train from Amsterdam. Province: North Brabant

Breda is a lovely city in the southern province of North Brabant. It’s not a big city, thus being the perfect destination for a relaxed day trip. Shopping included, because there are a few interesting shops in the city. It the past, Breda used to be a fortress and you’ll find some signs of that past here and there, in buildings like the Castle of Breda or The Spanjaardsgat. The rest of the architecture is mostly southern Dutch style, with pretty façades in pastel colours, cosy streets and impressive churches. Breda is also known as the Nassau Stad, because it was the official residence of the Orange-Nassau family for several centuries (the current Dutch king, Willem-Alexander is a descendant of this family.)

To see : Breda Castle , a UNESCO heritage, the ancestral home of the Counts of Orange-Nassau, Grote Kerk (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk), Vincent Van Gogh’s House , Breda’s harbour, Begijnhof and the Beguines (with a lovely interior herb garden). To do : shop, relax, walk around. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : for some unknown reason, Breda is the city with the highest density of shoe shops in the Netherlands.

9. Zwolle : 1 hour by train from Amsterdam. Province: Overijssel

Zwolle is a lovely city, often overlooked by the people looking for a day-trip. This is the place where you can visit a fantastic bookstore, built in a 15th century cathedral: Waanders in de Broeren. The city definitely worth a visit, to get away from the crowds; you can walk the quaint streets, enjoying the slow pace of life, the romantic feel of the area.

To see : Waanders in de Broeren bookstore, Grote Kerk, Museum de Fundatie (visual arts museum) and Kasteel Het Nijenhuis, Sassenport (the gate house in the city wall). To do : Walk around to see all the squares, narrow streets, historical monument; shop, sample the restaurants, have an apple pie at the bookstore. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : Zwolle’s city walls are star-shaped (a specific feature of the Hansa Towns).

10. ‘s Hertogenbosch aka Den Bosch: 1 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: North Brabant

’s-Hertogenbosch, also known as Den Bosch for the ones who twist their tongue pronouncing this city’s name, is a lovely place in the south of the country. It’s very picturesque and some say it should be a must on your visiting list. It is the birthplace of the painter Hieronymus Bosch . There are a few museums to visit but the main attraction is the city itself. Do an organised walking tour or a food tour if you want, or just let yourself wander the streets and discover it at your own pace. And make sure to consider a boat cruise on the Binnendieze river (it’s like your regular canal tour with a twist: the boats take you under the medieval buildings in certain spots).

To see : Jheronimus Bosch Art Center , Saint John’s Cathedral, Noordbrabants Museum and Stedelijk Museum. To do : boat tour ; eat Bossche Bollen (traditional pastries). Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : the oldest brick building in the Netherlands is located in Den Bosch, in the Market square: The Moriaan building. 

11. Eindhoven : 1,20 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: North Brabant

Whenever I talk to people about Eindhoven, they all tend to say the same thing: “it’s not a beautiful city, but…”. That is true, this is not what you would ever call a beautiful city, but cities are not interesting only for their beauty, are they? With an important industrial heritage, Eindhoven is now reinventing itself as a cool city. Former factories have been transformed into hip bars, restaurants, art exhibitions. Creativity is the defining word for this place, and a day-trip to Eindhoven might surprise you by bringing a much needed fresh perspective. Old Dutch architecture tends to be roughly the same in every city and village, and one can have enough of it at some point. Even if you’re not a fan of industrial inspired design you might still find this place fascinating, with some of its areas looking like coming straight out of a steampunk movie. 

To see : Van Abbe Museum (modern art), the DAF museum (former truck factory), Philips Museum, Stadswandelpark, St. Catherine’s Church, Philips Stadion (for football fans). To do : visit Strijp-S area (for cool looking bars, shops and restaurants), see the GLOW festiva l, look for any interesting art or tech exhibition, see the UFO shaped building of Evoluon. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : Eindhoven is home to the Van Gogh Bicycle Path — a bike path glowing in the dark, inspired by “The Starry Night” painting.  

12. Dordrecht : 1.25 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: South Holland

One of my favourite Dutch cities , Dordrecht is located close to Rotterdam and right next to the national park De Biesbosch (another beautiful place worth seeing). Also known as Dordt, this is the oldest official city in the Netherlands. In the past, Dordrecht used to be an important trading power, given the perfect location at the confluence of a few rivers. It also held an important position in the country’s defence, up to the WW2 (you can learn about this at the Museum 1940-1945). Nowadays, Dordrecht is a charming, relaxed place, perfect for a short trip. The historic city centre is gorgeous, with narrow streets and canals. The canal houses are right next to the canal’s water, with no borders, like in Venice. The harbour area is very beautiful and must not be skipped if you go there. Old houses, many boats, old and new, and an impressive collection of special bridges, they are waiting for you to do a trip back in time. 

To see : the Grote Kerk, Dordrech Museum and Huis van Gijn , Museum 1940-1945, the former city gate — Groothoofdspoort. To do : take a boat tour, visit the harbour area, visit a distilery . Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : The Japanese battleship Kaiyō Maru was launched at Dordrecht in 1865. She was the largest wooden warship ever launched from a Dutch yard and one of Japan’s first modern warships.

13. Deventer : 1.30 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: Overijssel

Deventer is a charming, laid-back city, situated on the river Ijssel. It has a rich history and its heritage can be seen everywhere around the place, in the architecture and well preserved historical artefacts. I consider it a well hidden jewel of a city, often overlooked by tourists (but I don’t mind having the streets only to myself!), where I would like to go more often. You can visit Deventer during one of its festivals, to get an impression of the liveliness of the city, or on a Sunday if you want to enjoy the very quiet pace of a provincial city.

To see : Saint Nicholas Church (The Bergkerk, situated on a small hilltop, surrounded by a charming area), Lebuïnus Church, Speelgoedmuseum (Toy Museum), Kloostertuin (a small garden), The Worp park (to see Deventer’s skyline). To do : visit the old bookstores, sit on a terrace along the river, visit the book market in August (6 km of books) and the outdoor theatre festival ‘ Deventer Op Stelten ‘ in July. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : Every August, Deventer hosts Europe’s largest  book fair (about 125,000 visitors). 

14. Nijmegen : 1.30 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: Gelderland

Nijmegen claims to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, its origins going back 2000 years, to the Roman occupation. However, don’t expect it to look very old (apart from a small area in the centre), because a big part of the city had to be rebuilt after the war and that changed its appearance to a more modern city. It has a young vibe, almost certainly from the large number of students living here. In the centre there’s an impressive shopping area, buzzing with people, but there are also quiet streets and green parks. The city is located on the river Waal, and the river promenade adds to its charm. Here and there, in the parks and in the city, you can see remains of the city walls and its towers.

To see : Valkhof Museum (archeology museum) and Valhof Park, muZIEum (Venue recreating the experience of the blind or visually impaired), Afrika Museum , Kronenburgerpark, Grote Markt, Stevenskerk, Velorama (bicyle museum). To do : walk on the river Waal’s promenade, have lunch or a drink watching the boats and clouds passing by; have a local beer at De Hemel brewery. Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : Nijmegen is famous for its annual Four Days Marches, the largest multiple day marching event in the world, an event promoting sport and exercise. 

15. Groningen: 2.05 by train from Amsterdam. Province: Groningen

A student city in the far north of the Netherlands, Groningen has a rich history and a vibrant present. With over 50.000 students living here, this is a definitely old city with a young vibe! There are of course pretty streets and canals around, but also many attractive vintage and concept stores and an effervescent night life.

To see : Groninger Museum (art museum), Northern Maritime Museum, Prinsenhof garden, Reitdiephaven (Colorful buildings near water), Groningen University, Sealcenter Pieterburen. To do : climb the Martinitoren (Martini Tower), explore the city with a walking tour , a beer tasting . Getting around : on foot. Fun fact : The most leaning tower in Europe is in Bedum, one of Groningen’s satellite towns, at the St. Walfridus church.

16. Maastricht : 2.20 h by train from Amsterdam. Province: Limburg.

“A city to fall in love with” — is the official slogan of Maastricht’s tourism website. And you will fall in love with the vibrant life, the cobblestone streets and the pastel colours of Maastricht. This lovely city, situated in the south of the Netherlands, in the tri-state area between the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. It deserves more than a day trip. A weekend break would be more appropriate, to really feel the charm of the Limburg province, have time to see the historical sites, churches and museums, to sample the local cuisine, and to go shopping. There are even some great day trips that can be done from Maastricht, like the white village of Thorn. 

To see : Bonnefantenmuseum , St. Peter’s Caves, Sint Janskerk, Wilhelminabrug and St. Servaasbrug (bridges over the River Maas). To do : a cruise on the river Maas, explore the area around Vrijthof Square, explore the ruins of Lichtenberg Castle, shopping, or just enjoying the good life while sampling the local cafés and restaurants. You can also take a trip to the nearby Hoensbroek Castle . Getting around : mostly on foot but sometimes you can use the public transport. Fun fact : St. Peter’s Caves are a labyrinth of around 9000 passages, but they’re not actually natural caves, they are mining tunnels dug along the centuries, with some of them dating back to the Roman times.

So, are you in the mood for travelling already?

Stay tuned for more and follow Amsterdamian on Instagram and Facebook for daily stories about life in the Netherlands. Please share this post if you liked it! Check out my photo book: Amsterdam Through the Seasons ! For prints and other cute objects, visit our store on Society6 .

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I’m happy to say I’ve been to every place on the list. I lived in Haarlem for a while and I agree. It’s got a great vibe. It didn’t even feel like living in a city. It felt more like a friendly town.

So, where should I go next? Did I miss something? For example I had no idea that Dordrecht was so beautiful, no one told me about it. I just went there by chance.

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• Autumn in Utrecht | Amsterdamian - […] day off, another day-trip. This time, to the charming city of Utrecht, which I absolutely love. I enjoyed strolling…
• Day-trip to Eindhoven | Amsterdamian - […] main reason for my day-trip to this city in the south of the Netherlands was to experience the GLOW…
• Day-trip: an afternoon in Haarlem | Amsterdamian - […] better way to spend a windy afternoon than going on a day-trip? If we can call this a day-trip:…
• Day-trip: Rotterdam | Amsterdamian - […] should have told me before going to Rotterdam that it’s not one of those places you walk your way…
• A summer fairy tale in Delft | Amsterdamian - […] edge of the canals, to cool down. I am not used with such a warm summer anymore, it’s unusual…
• Day trip to Maastricht | Amsterdamian - […] are even some great day trips that can be done from Maastricht, like the white village of Thorn. But…
• Day-trip to Dordrecht | Amsterdamian - […] not visited Dordrecht before? I thought I crossed all the cities and villages from my “very pretty places in…
• Day-trip to Deventer: a beautiful Hanseatic town | Amsterdamian - […] tourists (but I don’t mind having the streets only to myself!), and a great destination for a day-trip (or…
• Visiting the country: Leiden | Amsterdamian - […] are many lovely cities in the Netherlands… If only I had the time to visit them all! But given…
• Breda day trip | Amsterdamian - […] not a big city, thus being perfect for a relaxed day-trip. Shopping included, because there are a few interesting…
• Visiting the fairy-tale village of Giethoorn | Amsterdamian - […] without roads”, as it is known. The village can easily be reached by train or by car, and the…
• Day-trip to Nijmegen | Amsterdamian - […] day-trip to the old city of Nijmegen, one of the oldest in the […]
• Visiting the Hansa Towns: Kampen | Amsterdamian - […] I loved Kampen and definitely recommend it as a great day-trip from Amsterdam. […]
• The Hague day trip | Amsterdamian - […] are some points of interest which will require public transport, or bikes. I really enjoyed my day-trip to The…
• Day-trip to Eindhoven | Amsterdamian - Amsterdam Blog - […] main reason for my day-trip to this city in the south of the Netherlands was to experience the GLOW…

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19 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands Besides Amsterdam by residents

February 13, 2020 by Karen Turner 47 Comments

As a Dutch resident, I’ve been lucky enough to see many of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands that aren’t as well known to tourists as well as the Dutch countryside.

Although you’ve probably heard why you should visit Amsterdam, the prettiest Dutch cities to visit are often peaceful, less crowded, and more memorable.  Keep reading for the 19 most atmospheric and beautiful cities/towns in the Netherlands that will help you discover more of the Netherlands.

I have lived in Amsterdam ( click for insider tips !) and the Hague.  One of my favorite hobbies to take a train to a new Dutch city or town or village (dorp) that I haven’t been before.

Although Amsterdam is a lovely city, its centre is full of touristy shops and if you simply take the train, you’ll discover some beautiful small Dutch towns and large cities in the Netherlands that are full of incredible architecture and history.

As much as I love Amsterdam, the Netherlands is so much bigger and people joke that Amsterdam is like Dutch Disneyworld, so if you’re wondering where to go in the Netherlands…any of these cities might be a good idea to experience the real Netherlands.  It should be noted that some of the cities are near Amsterdam while others are quite far, so depending on your time, make time to visit somewhere else.

Baarle-Nassau

Schiermonnikoog.

• 1 Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland
• 2.0.1 Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.
• 3 Muiden: The perfect day trip from Amsterdam
• 5 Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)
• 7 ‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:
• 8 Den Haag / The Hague
• 10 Baarle-Nassau
• 12 Rotterdam
• 13 Maastricht
• 15 Central cities to visit in the Netherlands
• 17 Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands
• 20 Giethoorn
• 21 Schiermonnikoog
• 22 Groningen
• 23 Leeuwarden
• 24 Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?
• 25 Enjoyed this? Share it!

Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland

You might be wondering: Is Holland the same as the Netherlands? Well, Holland is part of the Netherlands. It refers to one specific part of the Netherlands on the west coast (aka Noord Holland/South Holland).

Noord Holland is where most of the population lives, so people generally tend to call the Netherlands Holland as a result…however, you’re better off not describing the whole of the Netherlands as Holland since there are LOTS of other regions in the Netherlands worth visiting.

Noord Holland is where Amsterdam is located, so you’ll find many cities close to Amsterdam to visit.  The fantastic train system in the Netherlands means that the towns near Amsterdam (in Holland) are at most about one hour from Amsterdam, which makes these cities the perfect one day trip from Amsterdam (or longer!) . Click for a complete list of the 20 best day trips from Amsterdam

Haarlem: An easy day trip from Amsterdam

Haarlem is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Amsterdam. People assume because they’ve visited Amsterdam that there’s nothing of worth in Haarlem, however, Haarlem is older than Amsterdam. (Similarly, you can easily find cheap accommodations in Haarlem and take the train to Amsterdam.)

Haarlem’s town center is dominated by the imposing St. Bavokerk (also known as Grote Kerk, Big Church). Built on the spot of a burned down 12th-century church, it became an official cathedral in 1557. It’s beautiful inside and out, with stunning stained glass windows and an organ on which a young Mozart—among other musicians of yore—played many a tune.

Beyond the cathedral, Haarlem has some great museums such as the eccentric Teyler’s Museum and De Hallen, a tiny contemporary art museum. If relaxation is in order, check out the Jopenkerk, a hip craft beer bar and restaurant in a converted church, and be sure to follow up with the city’s best fries (and mayonnaise) at De Friethoes.

In short, Haarlem is a great day trip from Amsterdam for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle (and the tourist traps!) for a day. (Thanks to Alex .)

Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.

Muiden: the perfect day trip from amsterdam.

This beautiful and historic Dutch town close to Amsterdam (only 40 minutes by bus) is the home of one of my favorite Dutch castles (Muiderslot) .   Muiden minimizes cars and you’ll often see large ships passing through the town.  Be sure to stop into one of the historic brown bars for a drink or a meal after visiting Muiderslot castle.  You’ll feel like you stepped back in time.  Click for more information about visiting castles in the Netherlands.

This atmospheric star-shaped fortress city in the Netherlands is widely considered one of the best Dutch cities to explore due to its well-preserved walls/moat and beautiful houses.

It is an easy train ride from Amsterdam to Naarden and you’ll find that there’s plenty of things to do outside of Amsterdam if you discover this beautiful Dutch city at your own pace.

Although there’s so many cute towns in the area, experiencing Naarden means that you’ll also get a glimpse into Dutch history as it has one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands (dating back to 1572!).  Perfect for a half-day trip from Amsterdam or a day trip combined with visiting Muiden.

Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)

A bit further from Amsterdam, you’ll find the cities of South Holland, Brabant, and Limburg. This area is about 1-3 hours from Amsterdam, but these towns/cities are rich in culture, history, and beauty. (Sometimes less!)

This charming university town only thirty minutes from Amsterdam is full of charm, stunning canals, beautiful Dutch canal houses, and so few crowds that you’ll be wondering where everyone is.  Leiden can be mistaken for Amsterdam if you show the right photo although once you visit the historic Pieterskwartier, you won’t want to return to the crowds in the Red Light District.

Click for a complete guide to Leiden

‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:

‘s-Hertogensbosch, or Den Bosch for short, is the capital city of North Brabant, famous for its hospitality, good food and people who know how to enjoy life.

Den Bosch is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands with city rights dating back to 1185. One of the most remarkable sights is the Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, built between 1380 and 1530. During a recent renovation on one of the flying buttresses, there was added a statue of an angel holding a cell phone.

Those who love art can visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre to learn about Den Bosch’s most famous painter (Hieronymus Bosch). From the tower of the Centre, you will have a breathtaking view of the city. A different way to see Den Bosch is to take a boat tour on the Binnendieze through the city’s canals, including under many of the buildings.

There are also markets on the main square on Wednesdays and Saturdays.  Many restaurants are located at the Markt, De Parade and Vismarkt squares and on the streets: Korenbrugstraat and Korte Putstraat.

The specialty of Den Bosch is the  Bossche bol – a gigantic profiterole covered with dark chocolate and filled with whipped cream. Den Bosch is a perfect destination for a one-day trip, however, my advice is to stay a few days extra so that you can thoroughly enjoy the city.  During Carnaval, the city changes names and turns into a giant party in the streets.

(Thanks to Daniela from Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Den Haag / The Hague

Den Haag is often overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it is full of fantastic museums as well as historic architecture. Although Amsterdam is the capital, the Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and the home of Dutch Parliament.

For history geeks, it’s also the home of the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court in addition to hosting many of the main governing bodies of the Netherlands. One of the ones not to miss is the beautiful Binnenhof, which was a castle originally built in the 13th century to house counts. It is now used for meetings of the cabinets. (The Hague is about 1 hour from Amsterdam.)

Den Haag is also full of hofjes (historic courtyards that used to be almshouses), fantastic museums, and a lively Chinatown. For math and art geeks, you can visit the Escher Museum, which is housed in a former palace. The building is beautiful, but the art is even more fascinating.

Even more famous is the Mauritshuis, which houses  Girl with the Pearl Earring  and The   Goldfinch . If you’re an art geek with a love for the Dutch Golden age, this beautiful museum in a palatial setting is a must-see during your trip.

If you’re in Den Haag, don’t miss the Netherlands’ most famous boardwalk along the beach:  Scheveningen . The pier is a day in itself with tons of activities for couples and families alike!

Click for an insider’s guide to what to do in the Hague with 30+ things to do in the Hague!

Click for a one day guide to the Hague

Heusden is a small fortified town on the River Maas. A bird view of the town is pretty amazing, as it looks like a star from the air. Heusden is the perfect destination for slow travel in the Netherlands as you can walk along the old city walls, get lost in the narrow streets, or sit at café Havenzicht to watch the yachts passing by.

The town was built in the early 13th century to replace a castle destroyed by the Duke of Brabant. The stronghold played a significant role in the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) against Spanish dominance. In the 70’s the town has been completely restored based on a map from 1649.

There are many places to eat in Heusden, but you should try the Dutch pancakes at De Pannekoekenbakker.  When walking around in Heusden, there are many art galleries, including the shop of famous Dutch footwear designer Jan Jansen.

(Thanks to Daniela from  Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Baarle-Nassau is one of those bizarre oddities you need to see to believe. Its misshapen borders are tightly entwined with the Flemish enclave of Baarle-Haartog, thanks to a handful of fickle treaties in medieval days of yore.

The task of figuring out which country a building resides in is so confusing that the town had to create a rule: country of residence is determined by which country the front door opens into. Since taxes in Belgium are lower, that led to a rush to renovate houses to have doors opening to the Belgian side!

The queer little town(s) merits a day trip at the very least. A scenic cycle, drive, or bus ride from nearby Tilburg will bring you to its wacky borders, marked on the ground with small crosses.

You can pick up a pannenkoek (pancake) at De Pannenkoekenbakker on the Dutch side, then hop over to Belgium to sample a Flemish brew or three at De Lantaern. No passport necessary! (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose .)

Gouda is known for its world-famous cheese, but the city has so much more.  It is only 55 minutes by train and compact, so you can easily make it one of your day trips from Amsterdam and it is a must-see for the Netherlands if you’re a cheese lover.  Thanks to Maartje!

The impressive Town Hall on the central market square is a unique monument not to miss! Courtyards: the oldest yard dates back to even 1449!  St Jan church is the tallest church in the Netherlands and has huge stained glass windows. Look up and admire the facades of the Gouda houses with special ‘gevelstenen’, some even date back to 1609.

Stroopwafels are traditional Dutch syrup waffles. Try the waffles at Van Vliet bakery, where thousands are freshly baked daily on Lange Groenendaal street.

The Gouda cheese market occurs from April to the end of August. On Thursday mornings you can witness cheese making, cheese trading and weighing cheese in de Waag.

Click for a complete guide to Gouda 

Rotterdam is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands with a population only second in size to Amsterdam.  If you’re looking for another city to visit, Rotterdam is where to go in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam due to its dramatically different cityscape.

Most of Rotterdam was destroyed in World War II, so they’ve had to rebuild everything. For modern architectural buffs, Rotterdam is a great place to explore for its architecture, including the famous Blaak cube houses and the Rotterdam Market Hall. You can go up the Euroscope and take in the panoramic view of Rotterdam.

There are a number of good restaurants in Rotterdam, including Guliano (Italian) and Takumi (Japanese ramen). Rotterdam has the largest Asian population in the whole Netherlands, so Chinatown is where to go for Asian food. Rotterdam is a great city for nightlife.

The Witte de Withstraat street is Rotterdam’s bar street. I personally loved Wunderbar, which is a bar that is below ground but allows you to order through a window on the street level.  (Thanks to Tendelle .)

Click for a complete guide to Rotterdam

Maastricht is one of the most charming cities in the Netherlands and it can be easily explored in a weekend. The city is perfect for a slow, romantic weekend spent exploring a beautiful cathedral bookstore, strolling the tangled streets, touring historic caves, and eating/drinking delicious regional cuisine at affordable prices.

It’s a scenic 2.5-hour train ride each way south to Maastricht from Amsterdam and it costs about 25 euros per way. Its proximity makes it easy to hop over to Aachen, Germany for only 5 euros.

Recommended for a weekend trip from Amsterdam or a 1-2 day stopover between the Netherlands and Germany if you’re Eurorailing!

Read more about Maastricht here .

Delft is a quaint medieval town close to Rotterdam. about 1 hour from Amsterdam It’s well-known for being home to the Delft University of Technology, so it’s a vibrant and international university town.

The “Delft blue pottery” is famous from here, and many collectors flock to Delft to buy this special pottery as a Dutch souvenir. Don’t miss the Nieuwe Kerk’s impressive view over the city (and sizeable climb). Click to see how you can visit a Delft factory for free.

The city center of Delft is very beautiful. One of the hidden gems is that below street level and at the canal-level, there are tucked away benches for people to sit on. These benches are hidden from plain sight, perfect for a romantic date spot.

You can read a complete guide to Delft here as I routinely visit this beautiful Dutch city!

Central cities to visit in the Netherlands

Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands and it’s the major Dutch city south of Amsterdam (only 40 minutes!). Utrecht is also a very old city that dates back to 1122 and it is the kind of city that you can get (happily) lost in.

I highly recommend exploring the beautiful and compact city center on foot, there are beautiful old houses, pretty canals and lots of cozy cafes (some with cellars opening up to the canals).  Its canals are two stories, unlike Amsterdam’s canals.

One must-visit is the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands (112 meter high). Other interesting places to visit are the Railway Museum and Neude. For kids, there’s the Miffy museum.

If you’re planning a trip around the Netherlands and you’re looking for a good base in the Netherlands, Utrecht is perfect as it is exactly in the center of the Netherlands and it has reasonable accommodations.   (Thanks to Lotte ) 

You’ll hear Dutchies raving that it is one of the best Dutch cities to visit and I’m apt to agree that it is one of the top places to visit in the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam.

Click for my guide to a day trip to Utrecht .

Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands

Just an hour by train from Amsterdam is a charming little city called Zwolle. In the centre, you will find beautiful Medieval buildings that make you feel like a princess! The streets are intimate but also have a broad range of shops and restaurants to explore. One of the most unique sites you will come upon in Zwolle is Waanders The Broeren, a beautiful bookstore situated in a 15th century church.

Designer BK Architecten elegantly designed the store without altering any of the church’s original structure. The best part is that you can enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the church over delicious food and drinks in the brasserie, nestled in the heart of the cathedral. It’s about 1.5 hours to Zwolle from Amsterdam. (Thanks to Melissa )

You can read a complete guide to things to do in Zwolle here.

Ommen is a historical city located on the banks of the Vecht River. Though it’s home to less than 9,000 residents, Ommen has been called a city since 1248, when it was granted stadsrechten (city rights) in order to protect itself from pillaging.

Today, Ommen is the ideal balance between a fun tourist spot and a serene country escape. Due to its small size and “remote” location (for the Netherlands, anyway), it remains a bit of a secret in the larger international community.

Notable spots around Ommen include the Reformed Church, the city’s oldest building (originally constructed in the 12th century), and three old-fashioned windmills – two of which are still in regular operation.

After wandering through the charming city square and narrow side streets, you can relax by the river, linger at a waterside café, or cycle through the picturesque Dutch countryside. The area is probably best known for the Bissingh – a festival that takes place every July, made up of markets, live music, and other events. The Bissingh now spans several weeks. (Thanks to Emily for this contribution).

You may have seen photos of Giethoorn although few people know it by name (or can pronounce it correctly). It really is one of the prettiest dutch towns that I’ve seen. The small village of Giethoorn is in Overijssel and it is a bus ride away from Zwolle. This little town has no streets; only bridges, canals, and bike lanes.

You can rent a boat for 15 euros (per hour) to enjoy its picturesque canals although you should bring your own drinks/food as food in the town commands tourist prices (although it is possible to stop off for some frites!).

Tip: Go late in the afternoon to avoid large groups and stay overnight to enjoy the quiet small town feel. I consider boating around Giethoorn one of my favorite experiences in any one of the Dutch cities to visit in the Netherlands.

Click for information on visiting Giethoorn from Amsterdam.

Schiermonnikoog is part of a Dutch group of islands called the Waddeneilanden (Wadden islands). The island is also the Netherlands’ first National Park, and the perfect getaway for nature lovers and bike enthusiasts.

What makes this, and other islands like it, so special, is that it’s virtually car free.  Permanent residents of the island, of which there are only about 900, need a special permit to keep a car. Due to the small size and flat landscape, very few choose to do so, making Schiermonnikoog a car-free cycling paradise.

Nature lovers have plenty to look forward to on the island. Schiermonnikoog hosts the widest beach in Europe, has plenty of hiking trails, offers great bird watching opportunities, and is great for spotting sunbathing seal families.

It’s the perfect place to see the surprising variety of Dutch nature up close. If you tire of hedonism and history, head north to Schiermonnikoog to recharge your batteries, and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful parts of the Netherlands.  (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose.) [If this appealed to you, you also might love the idea of Texel , which is about 2 hours north of Amsterdam.]

This lively student city in the north of the Netherlands is full of charm and friendly folks. It’s also home of the world’s tallest climbing wall, the Excalibur . (I can proudly say that I’ve climbed it!)  

We got happily lost in the beautiful historic centre with many cute shops, art galleries, and brown bars serving up delicious local beers.  We enjoyed the incredible architecture of the University of Groningen, which was established in 1614. The campus is absolutely stunning and worth visiting. The Grote Markt has many food stands, including some amazing Venezuelan food (the best I’ve had!)

Click to read my guide to climbing Excalibur & a complete guide to Groningen written by a local.

The capital of Friesland, Leeuwarden, was named the 2018 European Capital of Culture and you can discover its rich history while walking around the city center.

Fryslân (Friesland) as a region has a unique culture and language (Frisian).  The unfinished church is one of Leeuwarden’s most famous landmarks although you’ll also find beautiful parks. Leeuwarden is one of Fryslân’s eleven historic cities with beautiful architecture and a rich history.   (To read more about Friesland or Leeuwarden, click here!)

Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?

If you have a favorite that is not included yet, please comment below!

Enjoyed this? Share it!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 13, 2017 at 8:37 pm

Wow! This is such a comprehensive post that opened my mind to other places outside of Amsterdam. I’d heard of a few (think Utrecht and Gouda, plus Holland) but had no idea about the others. I LOVE that first picture of Haarlem too. For someone who’s from the UK it’s kinda shameful I haven’t been yet, but this will definitely come in handy if I ever do!

May 13, 2017 at 8:45 pm

Such a nice list about Netherlands! I visited Amsterdam and Utrecht before, and had great time there 🙂 So many other cities to explore!

May 13, 2017 at 8:53 pm

Pinned this interesting read! We were just discussing yesterday about how we could spend a week in Netherlands and I knew of only Rotterdam and Amsterdam!… Thanks for your inputs, now I have too much to fit in a week.. lol..

May 13, 2017 at 9:07 pm

It´s been ages since I was in Amsterdam and the coast – but never was to many of these towns on your list! Looks awesome and since I´m not all that far from NL, a road trip has to happen next year! Giethoorn looks like out of a fairytale, x

May 13, 2017 at 9:16 pm

I fell in love with the Netherlands upon my first visit, but now I absolutely can’t wait to get back!

May 13, 2017 at 9:48 pm

They really are picturesque! I have only been to Amsterdam, so your post gives me inspiration to explore more for sure. Pinned for later.

May 13, 2017 at 9:49 pm

I really like Utrecht and I was lucky to be there on the Queen’s Day some years ago. Thanks for all the suggestions about other places to visit, Baarle-Nassau in particular sounds intriguing. I’ve just clicked through to your Amsterdam post as we’re going in October!

May 13, 2017 at 10:15 pm

I live very close to Naarden and it is a beautiful city. It’s also a great area for cycling through the forest. It’s nice to see an article about other places than Amsterdam. There is so much to see in the Netherlands.

May 14, 2017 at 12:18 am

Omg I cannot believe there is a TOWN called GOUDA and its actually all about CHEESE. These cities are the perfect excuse to come back to the Netherlands for more Stroopwafel 😛

May 14, 2017 at 12:36 am

I didn’t know the Netherlands have so many beautiful cities and towns. I’ve only been to Rotterdam and Maastricht but I should definitely visit some more – especially because I’m a neighbour haha.

May 14, 2017 at 9:05 am

I have only been to Amsterdam, but I’d love to see more of the Netherlands! This post was very inspiring. I’m pinning it for when I plan a return trip 🙂

May 14, 2017 at 6:29 pm

I smiled throughout this post as i have been to many of them. So much more to explore though. Thank you for this comprehensive list!

May 14, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Love this list! I’ve only ever been to Amsterdam (guilty as charged), but I’d love to see the countryside and smaller towns and maybe do a bicycle trip around the country one day!

May 14, 2017 at 11:17 pm

I have to admit that I am one of those people who has only been to Amsterdam and really haven’t had any urge to venture outside of it. This post has definitely inspired me to head back to the Netherlands though! Giethoorn looks amazing!

May 15, 2017 at 10:31 am

Explore Friesland too. There are lots of small villages like Makkum (the fishers village) a village just close by Afsluitdijk or drop by in Aldfaerserf Openluchtmuseum in Allingawier. You can visit Leeuwarden too and some other big cities in Friesland.

May 15, 2017 at 11:13 am

Hi May, Thanks for commenting. I actually just visited Friesland this weekend (for the first time) to visit Leeuwarden as well as Franeker. Super charming and I’ll be adding about 5 more cities to this list very soon, including at least one in Friesland. Driving the Afsluitdijk was really incredible. Thank you for commenting and I will include more regions soon!

May 15, 2017 at 12:16 pm

Here is an interesting one.I was once accepted for a Masters in Maastricht. Life happened, but now it’s now super high on my list! I love seeing places beyond Amsterdam, so this list is really good!

May 15, 2017 at 6:05 pm

This post has definitely inspired me to visit the Netherlands ! I’d love to see the countryside, small towns and do a bicycle trip around the country 🙂 I’ve only visited Amsterdam few years ago… but there are so many places to explore outside of Amsterdam !

May 15, 2017 at 8:05 pm

Karen, lovely article. However, as an American living in Den Haag, and having to answer the question quite often about the Holland/Netherlands question, I thought I might give you a bit of info. Noord Holland and Zuid Holland are the two most populated provinces, and where the largest cities are located, thus the overarching term for the country as Holland. Although you do mention Zuid Holland far into your post, at the top you only mention Noord Holland. You might want to edit to include both provinces. Bedankt!

May 15, 2017 at 11:07 pm

Dear Suzanne, You are very correct. I wasn’t necessarily clear with my wording in the original copy, but I’ve updated to reflect the reality of the Randstad. Thank you for your comment. Thank you for reading. 🙂

July 30, 2017 at 1:51 am

Leiden in South Holland is also worth a visit. It’s a very old university town and it’s my husband’s hometown, incidentally. I have visited it many times and love the waterways that flow through it including the Oude Rijn.

May 15, 2017 at 8:14 pm

LOL I was reading this article and wishing you would mention my city Groningen. x

May 15, 2017 at 11:06 pm

JUST updated with Groningen. I actually intended to include it originally, but ran out of time prior to publication. I really enjoyed it, especially the lovely brown bars and the Excalibur climbing wall! Adding 4 more now to round it out at 20!

May 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Hello Karen, Oh wow! I’m sure you’ve visited the oldest planetarium in the world- Planetarium Eise Eisinga. I’m excited to read your next blog 🙂

May 19, 2017 at 3:14 am

Wow, this is a wonderful post! The first and last time I went to Netherlands, was when I was 16… That’s very long ago. Being from Germany, I definitely missed out on visiting the surrounding countries. You pictures are gorgeous and inspire to visit even smaller cities! It seems there are little gems everywhere!

May 19, 2017 at 8:27 am

Nice blog! Maybe you could add a fee words about the forts that were built to protect the cities from marauding armies, the Hollandse Waterlinie. The forts are converted for many different purposes. Gorinchem, where I live, has four or five of them. The city is surrounded by complete ramparts and fortifications as well, and you can visit Woudrichem/Loevestein castle plus fort Vuren by foot ferry.

May 20, 2017 at 3:01 pm

Love this! We went to Amsterdam last year and checked out Utrecht which I loved. Our next destination in the Netherlands is Rotterdam so excited that it made the list as well. 🙂

May 21, 2017 at 5:56 pm

I went to Amsterdam almost two years ago and absolutely loved it! This is such a great post to explore more of the Netherlands besides the big city. I will be saving this for my travel planning!

May 24, 2017 at 10:30 am

OH MY GOSH! This is amazing. Beautiful photos, amazing experience. I envy you. 🙂

June 18, 2017 at 3:53 pm

Thanks for this post! I want to explore other parts of the Netherlands but didn’t know where to start. These towns sound awesome and I’ve actually heard of some of them. Giethoorn looks so sweet and beautiful!

June 29, 2017 at 2:10 pm

Oh my God nice pictures thanks for shear it.

July 15, 2017 at 1:19 pm

I love how you also listed some lesser known places, like Zwolle and Leeuwarden. Personally, I also really love Breda and Middelburg 🙂 Oh… and Deventer.

July 17, 2017 at 11:40 am

Muiden is a very beautiful place to be.Muiden is a city and former municipality in the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland. It lies at the mouth of the Vecht and is in an area called the Vechtstreek

July 30, 2017 at 2:39 am

Hi Daphne, I was recently there and loved it. I need to update this post with the new places I’ve been recently!

August 21, 2017 at 11:45 am

I live in Amsterdam but in this kinda posts i never read anything About my home town Breda in the south. City famous for its old beautiful centre, Forrest at the south, beer, candies, carnaval, jazz festival And last but not least the Netherlands most famous DJ (Tiësto) is from this place. Good to combine with Rotterdam as there is a highspeed train from Amsterdam via Rotterdam to Breda.

November 3, 2017 at 2:58 pm

I live here for a 4 years already (in Gouda – totally agree on its appearance on your list!). I cannot really say I love Amsterdam, it is waaaaay to crowded for me… But other small cities like Haarlem, Dordrecht, Delft, Leiden….mmmm…. small and cozy :)))) For those who said they never knew Netherlands has so many beautiful places to visit – there are even more!

July 13, 2018 at 5:27 pm

Nice compilation. Disappointed that the nice Zeelandic towns like Middelburg and Vlissingen are missing. Maybe you are yet to explore those

July 13, 2018 at 5:28 pm

Hi Raj, I was in Middelburg about 2-3 weeks ago. I’ll definitely be updating it to include it. 🙂

Watch for a guide this month!

Best, Karen

September 19, 2018 at 1:06 am

Nice list,but Amersfoort deserves to be on it as well,my hometown. Mooie lijst,maar Amersfoort verdient on we ook op te staan,mijn stad One of the oldest medieval towns in the Netherlands 20 km. from Utrecht. From Amersfoort you can go anywhere in The Netherlands,it is Railroad hub.

September 15, 2019 at 10:12 pm

Hi, my favourite towns are Marken (I love lighthouses) and Elburg – you wont forget either in a hurry.

October 23, 2019 at 9:54 pm

I’m just wrapping up a 3.5 week trip the the Netherlands, ending in Amsterdam. I started in Delft, with side trips to The Hague and Leiden; then Rotterdam, Utrecht, Maastricht and finally Amsterdam, heading to Haarlem tomorrow (which is how I found your blog). I’ve loved each place in its own way but, so far, Leiden is my favorite.

October 24, 2019 at 11:37 am

Hi Eileen, Thank you for this lovely comment. It makes me so happy to read this as there are so many charming cities in the Netherlands to see! Curious if Leiden takes the crown for you after seeing Haarlem! I regularly visit Delft and Leiden myself. 🙂

August 16, 2020 at 11:12 pm

Please mention Arnhem, a beautiful city and take the side trip to the POSTBANK!!!

June 20, 2024 at 4:32 am

I was recently touring around in the south and east and fell in love with Breda, Zutphen, Dordrecht, Amersfoort, Den Bosch and Bergen Op Zoom. I’m planning on buying a second home in one of those. any recommendations as to which would be the best choices for a senior gay couple?

[…] of the heather landscapes in Texel… I’m currently based in The Netherlands where weekend getaways are much easier than in the US, but the short weekend trip is possible. […]

[…] write about expat related issues.  If you’re looking for pragmatic, helpful, and honest tips for travel in Europe, you’re in the right place.   If you want to read some more inspiring guides to Paris, […]

[…]  I live here, so browse my site for insider tips for Amsterdam (my home for 2+ years), other beautiful cities in the Netherlands that you won’t want to miss, and Dutch alcohols that you’ll want to […]

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Cities Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting

Amsterdam is an amazing city and there are so many things to see. Most of articles on this blog, are dedicated to this town, but there are also other cities worth visiting. If you have some extra time I would recommend you to go for a tour around the Netherlands and visit a few places. The Netherlands is a very small country and you can cross it within few hours. Moreover, transport and highways are on the highest level, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Cities Near Amsterdam Worth Visiting are:

• Zaanse Schans

I will describe shorly each and every town on this list and on the end of article I mention the best ways to travel The Netherlands. I am going to share with you some tips and tricks so travelling won’t be a pain in the ass but a great adventure.

I was living in Haarlem for the last 5 years and I am telling you, go there. It’s a lovely town with beautiful architecture, amazing market square, dozens narrow romantic streets and little shops.

What To See in Haarlem?

Haarlem is a medieval city and I often hear that it is the most beautiful city in the whole Netherlands, so if you have only one extra day and you have to choose where to go, this is the place you want to visit.

Market Square Groote Markt

The market square in Haarlem is a good beginning. There is often something happening, events or bazaar. You can get there some fresh, local food, flowers or typical Dutch products. From the market square, there are few cool destinations. I would just follow the direction of Spaarne ( Canal ) and there are always some cool old ships along the waterside. You can also have a break in the restaurant Spaarne 66. Just chill and drink some coffee.

From the market square, there is an easy way to famous Haarlem spots such as Molen Adriaan ( Windmill with a lookout station ) Frans Hals Museum, Beautiful hidden Courtyards, De Jopen Kerk ( It used to be a church and now you can get here some good beer )

I would suggest you to visit Botermarkt , it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the town. From there on you can follow little streets of Haarlem and just get lost. If you walk around this area you find also a lot of little cool shops.

How to Get To Haarlem?

Haarlem is close to Amsterdam and you can get here by train in 18 minutes. For car parking, you pay around 4 euro per hour but there is underground parking just beneath the market square. There you pay a little bit less and it is in the city center. There best way to get to Haarlem is by train or by car. For the train ticket, you pay 9,70 Euro both ways. Car parking costs around 3 Euro per hour.

Utrecht is a medieval town located very close to Amsterdam . The quickest and the easiest way to get there is by train and it takes only 20 minutes. Old town and its canals are astonishing, so just walk around sipping its culture and atmosphere.

What To See in Utrecht?

Utrecht isn’t only the most charming city in The Netherlands but in the whole of Europe. Utrecht in much smaller then Amsterdam and everything seems to be in one place. That’s why it is easy to see this city just in one day. Let’s go straight to the point. What To See in Utrecht?

Among the Most Beautiful Things to See in Utrchet are:

• De Haar Castel
• De Dom Tower
• Sonnenborgh Observatory
• Museum Speelklok

What I like the most is just walking around the city center. It’s a lovely place with huge amount of little cafes. Don’t spend all day long visiting popular places. Just have a rest, relax and enjoy this beautiful place.

How To Get To Utrecht?

As I said before the best Way to get to Utrecht is by Train. Every 15 minutes there is a train that costs aproximately 8 Euro (2nd class). You can also get there direcly from Schiphol and then ticket costs around 9.20 Euro.

If you are coming by car, then you should go for on P+R Parkings. It costs 5 Euros and you get to the city center with public transport.

3. Volendam

Volendam is a famous Dutch town located on the Markermeer Lake. This is a city where you can really feel a Dutch culture. You need half of a day to enjoy Volendam to the fullest.

What To See in Volendam?

• Colorful Wooden Houses
• Old Fishing Boats in the harbor
• The Volendam Museum
• Walk along the harbor have and have some munchies
• Wear traditional Dutch clothes and take a photo. It costs 15 per person and 30 for 4 people.
• Try Poffertjes ( typical Dutch little pancakes ) nad Kibbeling ( very popular in the Netherlands fish dish )
• Go for a boat trip to Market ( 30 minutes tour to nearby village )

How To Get To Volendam?

Volendam is only 25 minutes from Amsterdam by bus. You get there with bus 316 from Amsterdam/CS IJzijde station. This station is located on the back of Amsterdam central station. You have to cross central station all the way to the back and there are signs, so it’s difficult to get lost. One way ticket costs 4,39 Euro. You can also book a tour or travel on you own by car.

Delft is the city in the south of The Netherlands. It’s 45 minutes away from Amsterdam. It is a little lovely town with gorgeous canals and charming old town. It’s located just in between Rotterdam nad Den Haag.

What To See in Delft?

Delft isn’t that much of a touristc town as Amsterdam and definitely it’s worth visiting. Probably at this point you are not surprised when I say get lost and explore city on your own. Just walk along the canals and you will be good 😉 But of course there are many things to see in Delft and I mention some of them below.

• Nieuwe Kerk
• Beestenmarkt
• Wilhelminapark
• Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles
• Molen de Roos
• TU Botanical Garden
• Delft City Hall
• Delft canals
• Markt square
• Canal boat trip

How To Get To Delft?

You can get to Delft by car or by train. A return train ticket costs 28 Euro but you must come back the same day. You can get a ticket in one of the ticket machines on the entrance of the station. Keep in mind that you have to scan a ticket before entering a platform and scan it again when you leave a train station in Delft. Now look for the train to Delft. It is highlighted on the screens.

Alkmaar is a city in the Noord of Holland know for their cheese market and long history. But there is much more to see. Keep on reading to learn more. I recommend you to go for a canal cruise. Canals in Alkmaar are charming.

What To See in Alkmaar?

When you ask someone about Alkmaar, you hear immediately about cheese but this not the only thing you can enjoy in this amazing city. In Alkmaar, there are countless museums, shopping districts, historic monuments, charming cafes, and restaurant.

• Kaarmarkt – cheese market (The best day to visit market is Friday because on this day there is a cheese market)
• Grote kerk – a big church
• Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar
• Het Beatles Museum
• AFAS Stadium
• De Tromp Kaashuis
• De Vlaminck – the best fries in town
• Theater De Vest

How to Get To Alkmaar?

It takes beetwen 34 and 44 minutes to get from Amsterdam to Alkmaar. On a daily basis 90 trains go to Alkmaar so you don’t even have to check a schedule. Just go to the train station and you’ll be good. For Return Ticket you pay 9 Euro.

For long distance tours, you don’t want to go with a taxi. For example, for that short trip from Amstedam to Alkmaar, you pay 100 – 130 Euro. But if you have a car, it takes only 30 minutes to get there and you can find a decent price parking in the city center.

I know I said it before about other places that they are charming. But Naarden is exceptional. Just check Naarden view on google maps, it looks just like a snowflake. This town is built in a start shape and it’s fortified wall measures 135 km.

What To See in Naarden

Naarden is one of the most preserved fortified towns in Europe and it’s an amazing piece of a Dutch History. What to do and see in Naarden?

• The Netherlands Fortress Museum
• Weegschaal museum
• Charming cafes, shops, and attractions (Fine – cozy restaurant in Naarden)
• Explore Fortifications

How to Get To Naarden

The very best way to get to Naarden is by bus. With line 320 you get to your destination in 30 minutes and it cost 5 Euro. First, you have to get from Amsterdam Central to Amsterdam Amstel station. From there you take a bus 320.

7. Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a open-air museum where you can enjoy a traditional Dutch culture. If you want to feel a Dutch atmosphere this is a place to go. Especially when you are in Amsterdam. Zaanse Schans is only 40 minutes from a Dutch capital.

What To See in Zaanse Schans

When it is about Zaanse Schans you don’t have to plan what to see. This is an open-air museum and you just go within designated path. But if you have some extra time you can visit also Volendam which is closeby Zaanse Schans.

How to Get To Zaanse Schans

By car , choose a destination: Schansend 7 in Zaandam. For parking, you pay 10 Euro per day, but keep in mind that you can’t pay cash, only card.

With RNet Bus 391 you get to Zaanse Schaans in 40 minutes and it rides every 15 minutes.

If you like cycling , then Zaanse Schans is only 1 hour biking from Amsterdam Central. In Zaanse Schans there is a lot of bicycle parking racks so you don’t have to worry about your bicycle.

8. Zandvoort

Zandvoort is a Dutch famous coastal city. It’s very popular among Dutch people but not only. There is a lot of Germans visiting this town each year. It’s only 30 minutes from Amsterdam. Beach in Zandvoort is long and wide. It’s a paradise for those who like to spend their time in ana active way.

What To See in Zandvoort

Zandvoort is a former fishing village which became a popular tourist destination. Below I mention what to do in Zandvoort:

• Enjoy clean sandy beaches
• Water sports: Kitesurfing, stand-up paddle boarding
• Trek around dunes or rent a bike
• Jutters Mu-ZEE-um
• Zandvoorts Museum for art and history
• Hang out at beach club ( there is more then 30 of them )

How to Get To Zandvoort

There is a great connection between Amsterdam and Zandvoort. By train, you get there in 30 minutes and a one-way ticket costs 6,60 Euro. Zandvoort train station is just near the beach, it’s maybe 5 minutes walk.

Zaandam is very close to Amsterdam and if you have only few hours this is a nice town to see. There are few things you should see but it isn’t definitely whole day destination. Keep on reading to learn about the most interesting things to see in Zaandam.

What To See in Zaandam

As I said before Zaandam isn’t that big, but it is a cool place to visit on your way to Volendam, Zaanse Schaans or if you have few hours left in The Netherlands. Below are some cool thins to see in Zaandam

• City Hall in traditional Dutch house style
• Main street leading to old town
• The Clog Museum
• Go on a Cycling tour

How to Get To Zaandam

The Best Way to Get to Zaandam is by train. It takes only 13 minutes and you pay 3,80 for the ticket. The train departs from the central station.

Day trips from Amsterdam

Above I mention some cities close to Amsterdam worth visiting and here you can read about some cool spots and things to do in The Netherlands. But for these ones, you will need 1 day.

It is a unique spot, quite far from Amsterdam because you need 1,5 hour to get there by car or 2 hours by train. What’s interesting about this town it is totally car-free.

You can explore Giethorn from canals or on your own on a bicycle. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands.

Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof is one of the biggest gardens in the world. It’s situated in Lisse, on the south of Holland. There is an easy connection from Amsterdam. Approximately 7 million flower bulbs are planted in Keukenhof each year. You can rent a bike, cycle around the park or go for a canal cruise.

Muiderslot Caslte

If you enjoy exploring castels this is a place for you. Muiderslot Castle. It’s not far away from Amsterdam because you need only 40 minutes to get there. It’s in a day tours category because there is a lot of interactive exhibitions such as “knight games”.

If you’ve bought a IAmsterdam card, entrance is free of charge. The Best time to visit Muideslot Castel is in summer when garden blossom.

Cheapest Way To Travel Netherlands

I have to tell you something at the very beggining. The Netherlands is not a cheap country when it comes to travelling. Actually, it is pretty expensive country in general. Accomodation, transport, food, attractions are expensive. But of course there are ways to save some money. I am going to give you some tips and tricks.

Transportation

I always use my OV chipcard. With this card, you get some discount and it’s much cheaper than buying a regular ticket. But when you travel a lot it’s smart to get a day card.

There are 2 kinds of OV. One of them is personal card and you have to apply for it on the website. Link Here . It’s good to get one if you live in The Netherlands. You will get a discount and you won’t ever be bothered about funds on your card. It will automatically charge your card. For example, you can set an automatic charge on 20 Euro and it takes money from a bank account.

Another kind of OV kaart is an anonymous card. Get this one when you visit Amsterdam only for a few days. You can buy anonymous OV Chipkaart on sales devices at a station, operators’ counters, newsagents and supermarkets or at OVshop , the Chipbizz webshop.

Day Card costs approximately 41 Euro and you can use it for any mean of transportation in The Netherlands. This means you can travel anywhere for the 24 hours with this ticket. More information on this website.

You can also get a GVB day card for the area of Amsterdam, Diemen, Duivendrecht, Amstelveen, Schiphol, Weesp and this one costs only 8 Euro. More information on this website.

Group Ticket

You can also get a group ticket on any train station but you can also get it on the internet. On this website, you can buy a group ticket .

Rent a Bike

For me forever the best transport, relax and activity. Of course, if I travel only within the town. You can rent a bicycle in Amsterdam for as little as 9.50 per hour. This is also a cool option, because you are constantly active and there is a feeling of adventure. Read my another article on where to rent a bike in Amsterdam. It’s on the blog www.dutchstylebike.com. Link here.

Traveling by Car

Traveling by Car in The Netherlands is comfortable because there are highways everywhere. But parking fees can kill you. The Best solution is to park your car in P+R parkings.

Rafal Sulowski

I am a creator, blogger, vlogger, always curious mind with endless energy. I love people and having fun. Sport and healthy lifestyle is my passion. Currently living in Amsterdam.

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17 Best Day Trips from Amsterdam (& Tips for How to Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 27, 2024

Are you looking for some ideas for day trips from Amsterdam ? Excellent choice! Amsterdam is a beautiful city that attracts millions of visitors every year, and there’s so much to see and do in Amsterdam … But don’t forget that the Netherlands has so much more to offer than just its lively capital!

So if you can, plan at least a few day trips or excursions from Amsterdam and see the Dutch countryside, or visit several other towns… It will make your trip to the Netherlands so much more special and memorable!

You can easily see the very best of Amsterdam in one or two days  and then spend some more time exploring the rest of the country. We live in Belgium and often visit Holland for short day trips. In this post, I am sharing some of the best day trips that you can make from Amsterdam in the Netherlands. I also included the two most popular day trips from Amsterdam to Belgium.

Most of the places mentioned here can be easily visited by public transport, in less than an hour from Amsterdam. In addition, we also feature several must-see places in the Netherlands that can easily be visited as a day trip from Amsterdam, but where you would need to take a car or join an organized tour, since using public transport would probably make it too difficult to visit in just a day.

This selection of the best day trips from Amsterdam includes some of our favorite places in the Netherlands. In addition, I asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their favorite day trips from Amsterdam as well. I want to show you the other side of the Netherlands and inspire you to get a bit more off the beaten path. Find out!

Top 3 Day Trips from Amsterdam:

• Tulip Gardens (spring only).
• Windmills & Countryside .
• Giethoorn .

TIP: If you are looking for organized day trips and tours from Amsterdam, but are overwhelmed with the choices, below is my hand-picked selection of the most popular and highly-rated day trips from Amsterdam.

Do any or all of them and you’ll see the very best of the Netherlands without having to worry about the practical side of planning your trip.

Here are direct links to the most popular (half) day tours from Amsterdam for first-time visitors:

• Volendam, Edam, Marken & Zaanse Schans Windmills – see the best of the Dutch countryside.
• Day trip to Giethoorn , a pretty little village with canals instead of streets.
• Keukenhof Flower Gardens + transfer from Amsterdam . Tulips and flower fields – this is a must if visiting the Netherlands in the early spring!
• Bruges day trip – visit the most picturesque medieval town in Benelux.

Further below you can find more details about these and other great day trips from Amsterdam. But, these four Amsterdam day tours listed above will bring you to the nicest places in the Netherlands.

Good to know: Our list of the best day trips from Amsterdam starts with the most popular day trips first. Some places like Zaanse Schans, Keukenhof Gardens, Volendam, or Giethroorn are very popular with tourists. In the meantime, some others are much quieter and less visited, yet definitely worth a short trip if visiting Amsterdam for a few days. Take a look!

Here are the very best Amsterdam day trips:

1. Zaanse Shans

Zaanse Schans is a wonderful day trip from Amsterdam where you can experience quintessentially Dutch things like windmills and wooden clogs. The village is actually a residential area that feels like an open-air museum that showcases the industrial past of the region, including the ubiquitous windmills.

You can wander through the picturesque village and experience a Dutch town like it would have looked in the 18th-19th century. Just please be respectful to the locals who live there and don’t just walk on somebody else’s property!

In addition to the operational windmills that you can visit inside, there is a cheese-making shop, a lumber mill, a wooden clog maker and a restaurant serving Dutch pancakes. The Zaans Museum located right next door tells the story of the industrial past, with particular attention to the biscuit and chocolate maker Verkade.

How to visit: Getting to Zaanse Shans is easy – you can join a tour (see below) or take a 15-minute train from Amsterdam’s Central Station and then it is a 20-minute walk to the village. You can wander around the village for free, but will need to pay to enter the windmills and the Museum. In that case, it’s best to get a Zaanse Schans Card that includes an entrance to all the main sights here.

TIP: Zaanse Shans is the most popular destination for organized half-day and day trips from Amsterdam, often in combination with other nice locations nearby. It’s a great option for those short on time or not willing to deal with the practical aspects of planning a day trip from Amsterdam.

If you only have half a day, I recommend this highly-rated Zaanse Schanse tour ; it takes less than 4 hours. If you have a bit more time, I recommend choosing one of the Zaanse Schans tours that also include a visit to Volendam, Edam, and/or Marken (see below for more information about these picturesque little villages).

Suggestion by Dawn from 5 Lost Together. You can find family tips for visiting Amsterdam on her blog.

2. Volendam, Marken & Edam

Located just north of Amsterdam city, these traditional Dutch towns make a great day trip from Amsterdam, popular among locals and tourists alike. You can visit one, two, or all three places in a day and there are many different ways to do it.

Volendam is an old fishing village and is extremely picturesque. Nowadays, it’s very touristy, but that’s why tourists seem to like it. To many foreigners, Volendam is a symbol of what the Netherlands looks like. The colorful buildings of the old harbor, old Dutch ships, and locals wearing traditional black Volendam clothing – it all makes Volendam a very popular destination. It’s the place to see all things typically Dutch and stock up on souvenirs.

Near Volendam, on the Markermeer Lake, lies a tiny island of Marken . This peninsula has been separated from the mainland by a storm in the 13th century and only reconnected back to the mainland in the mid-20th century. It can be reached by boat from Volendam or by car or bike via the embankment. You can also leave your car on the mainland and walk there. 

Because of its isolation from the mainland, Marken’s fishing community has managed to keep a more authentic historic character. Still, it’s a place very much oriented towards tourism, but in a more enjoyable way. A popular thing to do here is to visit a traditional clog maker where you can learn more about the craft or even get a pair of Dutch wooden shoes to take home with you.

Edam is a charming medieval town that is best known for its cheese with the same name (Edamer in Dutch). The small red ball of semi-hard cheese can be easily transported without losing its taste. It has, therefore, been a famous Dutch export product for many centuries.

In July and August, there is a traditional cheese market held on Wednesday mornings attracting many visitors. You can also take a boat tour on the canals.

How to visit: As already mentioned, there are many ways to visit these towns – on your own by car or by public transport , or with a tour from Amsterdam. Here is one of the best tours that visits Marken, Volendam, Edam, and Zaanse Schans as a day trip from Amsterdam. There are also private tours like this one , that visit all these three towns as well.

We recently took this highly-rated tour that left the city at 8 AM and brought us back before 3 PM. While it’s really touristic and felt a bit rushed, it’s a great way to see so many nice places in just half a day. Back in the city, we still had the whole long afternoon for sightseeing. So if you are short on time and want to catch a glimpse of the Dutch countryside, it can be done too.

READ ALSO: Dutch Countryside – Top Places Near Amsterdam

3. Giethoorn

Giethoorn is a picturesque little village 1,5hrs drive from Amsterdam.

It has canals instead of streets and boats instead of cars. Giethoorn is one of the most special places in the Netherlands and one of the best day trips you can do from Amsterdam.

Expect it to be extremely busy, especially if you are traveling in the summer. Still, it’s a place that is so typically Dutch that I think it’s well worth the trip.

How to visit:  Unless you have a car, the best way to get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam is by taking an organized tour. I recommend this highly-rated day trip to Giethoorn .

4. Keukenhof Gardens & Lisse Tulip Fields

Keukenhof is an impressively large flower garden boasting up to seven million flowers. It is only open for two months of the year and is filled with amazing collections of flowers in every color imaginable. I’m definitely no gardening enthusiast and at first, this sounded like something that would appeal more to my grandmother. But we ended up spending a good few hours wandering through the brightly colored displays.

There are cafes located throughout the gardens for a coffee break. Entrance costs are a little steep, but it’s worth it. Make sure to also take your time to also explore the adjacent tulip fields in this area!

The best time to visit is mid-April when most of the flowers are in bloom along with the tulips in the surrounding fields. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heavy crowds that build up throughout the day.

Keukenhof is a popular springtime day trip from Amsterdam with many options varying from private transfers to small group tours. If you are visiting Amsterdam from mid-March till mid-May, don’t miss it!

LEARN MORE: Lisse Tulip Fields & Tips for Visiting Keukenhof Gardens

How to visit: The garden is about a 40-minute drive from Amsterdam, but it’s not very easy to reach it from Amsterdam if you don’t have a car. There is a shuttle from the airport, but if you are coming from the city center, it’s probably easiest to take a transfer or a tour. You can find the best Keukenhof tours and transfers here !

Good to know: Keukenhof has recently introduced timed-entry tickets. So if you want to visit the gardens this spring, you really have to book your tickets in advance . (This is the most popular day trip from Amsterdam in March-early May!)

Suggestion by Rohan from Travels of a Bookpacker .

5. Bruges (Belgium)

Bruges is the most picturesque town in Belgium , often called ‘The Venice of the North’. With pretty canals, a maze of narrow medieval streets, and a big variety of Belgian specialties to taste or take home with you, Bruges is a very popular destination, also from the Netherlands. In fact, it’s one of the most popular day tours from Amsterdam.

Don’t miss the Markt – the main square of Bruges with impressive architecture, colorful buildings, and the medieval bell tower Belfort . You can climb all the way to the top for amazing views of the city and surroundings. 

There are several churches and museums in Bruges that are worth a visit if you have more time. But if you are short on time, just stroll the picturesque streets, visit the famous Minnewaterpark, and take a look inside the beguinage Ten Wijngaerde. No trip to Bruges would be complete without taking a boat tour on its famous canals. 

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bruges

How to visit: Bruges is located in Belgium, about 3 hours drive from Amsterdam. While it is possible to get there by car or by train, if you go to Bruges from Amsterdam for just a day, I recommend that you take an organized tour .

6. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an amazing city that sometimes gets overshadowed by its bigger sister city, Amsterdam. However, Rotterdam is extremely up-and-coming and is not to be missed on a trip to The Netherlands. The best part is that it just so happens to be a 35-minute train ride from Amsterdam which makes it the perfect day trip! If you have more time, I recommend staying for the weekend to immerse yourself in the cool architecture and hip city vibes.

Be sure to start your day trip in the city center! Go to the massive Markthal, check out the cube houses and walk down the cute street of Pannekoekstraat! Then, check out the art wall and Luchtsingel Bridge before walking over to have a drink outside on Witte de Withstraat.

If you have time, check out the Delfshaven area which has some of the only buildings that weren’t destroyed by WWII! I recommend renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour – it’s the best way to see the highlights of Rotterdam in just a few hours. You won’t regret a day trip to Rotterdam!

TIP:  The Port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe. Don’t miss the chance to see the harbor in action – join a harbor cruise .

How to visit: Rotterdam is easy to visit from Amsterdam by train . There are also guided tours, most including a visit to several other towns in one day. This is the most popular tour to Rotterdam from Amsterdam – it brings you to Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague in one day.

Suggestion by Katie from The Traveling Spud .

7. The Hague

Most visitors to the Netherlands only visit Amsterdam, but there are so many reasons to visit The Hague (Den Haag) , only 50km away from Amsterdam and next to the beach! The city is home to The Girl with the Pearl Earring and the art collection at the Mauritshuis Museum is only rivaled by the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

Take a stroll through the country’s seat of parliament, the Binnenhof, and take in the architecture. Visit the gorgeous Peace Palace, which presides over international law – take a tour, or admire this impressive building from the outside.

Explore the world of M.C Escher at the permanent exhibition of the Het Paleis. The beach terraces on Zwarte Pad at Scheveningen are the place to be on a warm summer day. Chill out on a lounger while a DJ spins tropic-house in the background. You can extend your day trip to The Hague by staying for an all-night beach party.

How to visit:  The Hague is just a short train trip from Amsterdam and you can easily visit on your own. The earlier-mentioned and highly-rated  Grand Holland Tour  visits The Hague in combination with Rotterdam and Delft in just one day from Amsterdam.

Best known for its blue & white ‘Delft Blue’ pottery (Delftware), Delft is another popular day trip from Amsterdam, often visited in combination with other nearby towns (such as The Hague and/or Rotterdam). 

Delft is probably one of the most typical old-Holland style towns and one of our personal favorites in the Netherlands. It managed to keep its unique character from bygone days. It’s a small town and you don’t need much time to explore Delft, but it’s absolutely worth a visit!

Stroll the picturesque shady canals with old-style hump-backed bridges and visit the old city with the Old Church, the New Church, and the Market Square with the impressive City Hall building. Don’t miss the view from the tower of the New Church – it’s one of the best things to do in Delft!

If you have more time and interest in arts, you may want to visit Vermeer Centrum . Otherwise, walk around the historic town center, take a canal cruise , and check out some of the souvenir shops for Delftware and traditional Dutch souvenirs.

We also highly recommend visiting the Royal Delft Factory where you can learn more about traditional Delft and see how it’s still made and painted by hand today.

How to visit: If you have the whole day, simply take a train from Amsterdam to Delft . Alternatively, if you are short on time and want to make the most of it, you can take one of the organized tours that visit several towns in a day.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Delft

9. Brussels (Belgium)

Brussels , the capital city of Belgium, is also a popular day trip from the Netherlands. Direct train connection makes it possible to visit Brussels from Amsterdam, but prepare for it to be a long day!

The main landmark that you absolutely have to see in Brussels is the Grand Place – the main town square with the impressive City Hall and the 17th-century guild houses. Considered one of the most beautiful town squares in the world, It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth a trip in itself. 

Other places of interest include the world-famous statue of Manneken Pis , the Royal Galleries, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and St Michael’s Cathedral. 

With just one day in Brussels, it’s probably best to just stay in the city center, visit the sights I mentioned above, and indulge in Belgian chocolates, waffles, and beer. There are great food tours that you can join in Brussels – see the selection here – it’s a fun way to experience the city.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Brussels

How to visit: There is a direct train from Amsterdam to Brussels and it takes about 2 hours one way. Alternatively, you can join an organized tour . It’s also easy to visit Brussels on your own by train and it gives you more flexibility. A guided tour will, of course, save you time and you will see all the top sights in Brussels without having to do any research or advance preparation.

10. Kinderdijk

If you want to see traditional Dutch windmills in the original setting, then you should definitely consider a day trip to Kinderdijk , just 1,5 hours’ drive from Amsterdam.

Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic 19 windmills, dating from the 16-18th centuries. A visit here is a very unique opportunity to get acquainted with how life in the Netherlands was centuries ago and learn more about their centuries-old struggle against the rising water levels. 

Furthermore, the scenery at Kinderdijk is truly picture-perfect. No matter when you visit – summer or winter, morning or evening – Kinderdijk is as picturesque as in the postcards.

How to visit: The easiest way to reach Kinderdijk from Amsterdam is by car or an organized tour . Alternatively, you first have to take a train to Rotterdam, from where you can get to Kinderdijk by waterbus.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Kinderdijk

11. Alkmaar Cheese Market

Alkmaar,  just 30 min ride by train, is one of my personal suggestions for an unforgettable day trip from Amsterdam.

It’s a charming little town, best known for its centuries-old traditional cheese market. Don’t miss it, especially if you find yourself in Amsterdam during the summer months. 

Alkmaar cheese market takes place on Friday mornings, weekly, between April and September.

LEARN MORE: Alkmaar Cheese Market

Howto visit:   Take a train from Amsterdam to Alkmaar where you can either explore the town individually or book this guided tour of Alkmaar and the Cheese Market . 

Gouda is much more than just a famous cheese town. With its compact size and a 55 minutes train ride from the Dutch capital, Gouda is a great day trip from Amsterdam. These are my recommendations for a visit:

Explore Gouda’s rich history and architectural delights:

• The Town Hall on the central market square is an impressive monument that can not be missed.
• St Jan church with its stunning stained glass windows is the tallest church in the Netherlands.
• Courtyards, some yards even date back to 1449!
• Admire the facades of the Gouda houses with special bricks, some even date back to 1609.

Try Gouda Cheese, Stroopwafels and Beer:

• The Gouda cheese market occurs from April to the end of August. On Thursday mornings you can witness cheese making, cheese trading and weighing cheese in De Waag.
• Stroopwafels are syrup waffles and my favorite Dutch treats. Try the waffles at the traditional Van Vliet bakery, where thousands are freshly baked daily.
• If you are a beer lover, visit Den Gouwen Aar and get yourself a local Gouda beer.

TIP:  If you don’t have the time to do any research in advance, join a guided monument walking tour of Gouda and see the best of this beautiful town in just 2 hours.

How to visit: Gouda is best reached by train from Amsterdam. There is now a guided tour from Amsterdam that includes a visit to Gauda as well as a few other popular places in a day.

Suggestion by Maartje from Quokka Travel. You can find more information about visiting Gouda on her blog.

13. Utrecht

Utrecht is a smaller and more laid-back version of Amsterdam and one of the must-do day trips in the Netherlands. With many more canals than Amsterdam, Utrecht is less touristy which will instantly make one fall in love with the picturesque streets laden with small cafes that are located right on the edge of the water.

The city has a vibrant student culture as it is home to the largest university in the Netherlands and also has many beautiful churches, marvelous galleries, and museums. Furthermore, you’ll find plenty of amazing yet inexpensive shopping options.

Do not miss the spectacular view of the city from the Dom Toren, but keep in mind there are over 450 steps to climb to get to the top!

TIP: If you have more time, make sure to visit the De Haar Castle in Utrecht.

How to visit: You can reach Utrecht by a direct Sprinter train from Amsterdam which takes just 40 minutes. A small selection of guided tours is also available.

Suggestion by Ketki from Explore With Ecokats .

14. Haarlem

If you’re looking for a short day trip from Amsterdam, Haarlem is by far the easiest choice. Only 15 minutes away by train, Haarlem is the quintessential fairy-tale Dutch city, but without the hordes of tourists that you’ll see in Amsterdam.

It’s mandatory to stroll around Haarlem’s Grote Markt central square (which hosts a lively market on Saturdays) and visit the stunning St. Bavo church, where Mozart once played.

If you’re into museums, the eccentric collection at the Teyler’s Museum is worth anyone’s while. If not, there are several small canals near the central square, if you allow yourself to get a bit lost.

Haarlem has lots of nice canals too and one of the nicest ways to explore the center is by taking a canal cruise .

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to either De Overkant for the best sandwiches in the city, or De Friethoes for the best fries and mayonnaise. Finish it off with a round of craft beer and bitterballen at Jopenkerk, a hip church-turned-brewery, and you have the perfect day in Haarlem!

How to visit: By train from Amsterdam (just 15 minutes). If you rather explore Haarlem with a local, you can also book a walking or a bike tour of Haarlem .

Suggestion by Alex from Lost With Purpose .

Located a short 30-minute train ride away, Leiden provides all the charm of Amsterdam with less than half the tourists! Recognized locally as a University Town, they have a harbor, canals, gorgeous restaurants and coffee shops.

Furthermore, Leiden is home to some world-class museums. Their wing of the Rijksmuseum even has an Egyptian Temple gifted to the Netherlands in 1971! And don’t forget the city’s windmill museum – Molen de Valk – which is still operated by amateur millers today and offers the most incredible view above Leiden from its upper stories.

How to visit: By train from Amsterdam.

Suggestion by Vicki from Make Time To See The World. Check her blog for the top things to do in Leiden to help plan your trip!

16. Muiderslot Castle

If you’re obsessed with castles, you need to take a day trip to Muiderslot Castle , recently also known as Amsterdam Castle! This castle, only 40 minutes from Amsterdam by bus, dates back to the 12th century and even has a proper moat.

It is also the perfect day trip with kids as Muiderslot includes many interactive exhibitions (including knight-inspired games) for children, costumes for kids to try on, and even falcons on the weekends.

The castle is free with the iAmsterdam City Card (or you can get a ticket just for a visit to the castle ). It’s at its best in summer when the garden is in bloom, but it’s actually quite a nice place to see near Amsterdam in any season!

The town itself is also very cute and typically Dutch. This is a great and less touristy day trip from Amsterdam!

How to visit: Muiderslot Castle is located just 18km from Amsterdam and it’s best visited by car or by bike ( see the biking route map here ). You can also take a train + bus or a private tour that visits several castles in the Netherlands in a day .

Suggestion by Karen from WanderlustingK. You can read more about Muiderslot and other Dutch castles on her blog.

17. Amsterdam Forest

This is more of a low-key local day trip from Amsterdam. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this for tourists, but if you are in Amsterdam for a longer time, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Visiting Amsterdam Forest is one of my favorite day trips from Amsterdam. The forest is a huge artificial park and just a 15-minute bike ride south of the city.

The park offers something to all of us! Amsterdam Forest is great for walking, cycling, spotting Scottish highland cows and there are many activities for kids. If you visit in spring, the cherry blossom park is worth a visit. I try to inspire travelers to leave Amsterdam for (half) a day and explore the stunning Dutch landscapes.

My favorite spot in Amsterdam Forest is Goat Farm Riddammerhoeve where kids can feed baby goats and cuddle with chickens. Although I don’t have kids, I love to go there too to spend some time with the animals and eat delicious Dutch apple pie with whipped cream.

Suggestion by Maartje from Quokka Travel. Check her blog for more information about visiting Amsterdam Forest .

More Suggestions for Day Trips from Amsterdam

Here are some additional suggestions for a few more Amsterdam day trips to consider:

• Efteling – the best theme park in the Netherlands and one we visit with kids at least twice a year. Don’t miss the Fairytale Forest!
• Kröller Müller Museum and The Hoge Veluwe National Park . Visit the second-largest Van Gogh collection in the world (80+ paintings and 180+ drawings) and ride a bike through a beautiful park. A perfect way to spend a day outside of Amsterdam!
• Discover the Dutch countryside by bike from Amsterdam.
• Dutch countryside tour by canoe from Amsterdam.

Planning Tips

If you are just planning to visit the cities in the Netherlands, you don’t really need a car. The traffic is really bad and parking is very expensive. The easiest way to do day trips from Amsterdam to other cities is by taking a train .

However, in addition to the above-mentioned day trips that you can easily make from Amsterdam, there are many more incredible experiences that are worth considering in the Netherlands, and also over the border in Belgium.

Some of these places are a bit more difficult to reach by public transport and are best visited either by renting a car or as a part of an organized tour. Still, I would only recommend renting a car in Benelux for those days when you will not be visiting the main cities and towns, and definitely not for the entire trip.

PRO TIP: Amsterdam is an extremely popular year-round travel destination, so be sure to book your hotels, tickets, and day trip tours as soon as possible . Accommodation prices skyrocket when availability is scarce, and some tours get sold out very quickly as well.

READ ALSO: Amsterdam Travel Tips

Where to Stay

If you are planning on doing several day trips from Amsterdam, we recommend staying close to the central railway station. Whether you are traveling on your own by train or taking organized tours, you will likely start and end your day at Amsterdam Centraal .

Here are a few of the best-rated hotels for various budgets, within a very short walking distance from the station:

€€€€€ Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky . €€€€ Park Plaza Victoria . €€€ Room Mate Aitana . €€ A-Train Hotel . €+ The Flying Pig Downtown .

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Amsterdam (best areas for first-time visitors)

More information for visiting Amsterdam:

• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Travel Tips
• Best Museums to Visit in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise
• Top Museums in Amsterdam
• Van Gogh Museum Tips

Amsterdam itineraries:

• 1 Day in Amsterdam
• 2 Days in Amsterdam
• 3 Days in Amsterdam
• 4 Days in Amsterdam

Seasonal guides:

• Amsterdam in June
• Amsterdam in December
• Amsterdam at Christmas

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Friday 1st of March 2024

Yes, Jurga. I'll follow your suggestions to book those refundable tours now.

Now the questions are: After my river cruise making a whole day stop at Kinderdijk & me staying 3 days in Amsterdam (+ visiting friends) afterwards, I probably have 3.5 days left for day trips. Is it still worthwhile to visit Zaanse if I've been to Kinderdilk? How about Edam, Volendam & Marken?

If yes, is it better do pick a whole day tour dedicating Giethoorn or it can be combined into one day tour to cover Zaanse & Giethoorn (and maybe also Edam/Volendam/...Would this be too rushed?)

Also, which booking platform works better for Amsterdam: GYG, Viator or something else?

Thanks again!!

Tuesday 5th of March 2024

Thank you again, Jurga, for your reply! I think my trip is well planned with your help. So looking forward to it!

Monday 4th of March 2024

Hi Sophie, all these places are worth a visit, but indeed, if you've seen Kinderdijk, Zaanse Schanse is somewhat similar. Kinderdijk is further from Amsterdam and fewer groups go there, so it might feel a bit more authentic. Zaanse Schans has more colorful buildings and windmills. Giethoorn - I wouldn't combine it with other places or it will be much too rushed. Edam, Volendam, Marken - very nice but also very busy because of the proximity to Amsterdam. Also, most tours combine these places with Zaanse Schans. You could also just take a bus and then rent a bike in Volendam and visit on your own. A bike tour of the countryside near Amsterdam could be a very nice alternative (the places they visit are not as busy) and it might be simpler and more enjoyable, especially if you are a solo traveler. As for booking platforms, both are ok, but we personally prefer GYG because of the ease of use and their customer service is great. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Tuesday 27th of February 2024

Hi! Thanks for the great tips! Just wondering: is it advisable and feasible to use Utrecht as a base to do day trips to Bruges, Giethoom, Haarlem, Rotterdam, Hague/Delft (trying to lower hotel costs by staying outside of AMS after spending 3 days there)? Is it a good idea?

Are there organized tours departing from Utrecht, as in Amsterdam? If so, any recommendation for budget and convenient lodging in Utrecht please? Thank you so much!

Thank you for your reply, Jurga!

If I'm traveling to AMS around 6/5-6/10/2024, which organized tours for the day trips mentioned in your articles should I book now in case they get sold out quickly or do I have time to decide which to day to go where once I'm there physically? Thank you!

Hi Sophie, it depends a bit on what exactly you want to visit and how you would travel. In case you want to go with guided tours, Amsterdam will be much easier - there are tons of tour options from there. There are not many tours departing from Utrecht, if any at all. If you want to use public transport, you can do a lot by train from Utrecht and many local journeys are direct (e.g. there are direct trains between Utrecht and Rotterdam or Utrecht - The Hague). In some cases, like Haarlem or Giethoorn, you will have to take several trains or buses. If you want to visit Bruges or other places in Belgium, it will take much longer than from Amsterdam. You could also stay in Amsterdam a bit longer to do those day trips that are easier from there (Haarlem, Giethoorn (best with a tour), or Bruges (also best with a tour)) and then move on to Utrecht for the rest (Rotterdam, The Hague, Delft - all by train, no tours). As for accommodations, we always use Booking.com to find the best deals for our stays. Bunk Hotel Utrecht is one of the cheapest options not too far from the station. Alternatively, Leonardo Hotel is also on the more affordable side. For Amsterdam, please see our guide on where to stay in Amsterdam (and book as soon as you know your travel dates). Hope this helps.

Wednesday 18th of October 2023

I have a plan to bring my family for trip surround the Netherlands. I hope next year. Would you please so kind to help me what to choose the travel-tour in group? or maybe another options, at least, organized group travel?

I do thank you and appreciate it.

Thursday 19th of October 2023

Hi Vera, if you stay in Amsterdam, you can take organized group tours to any of the places you want to visit, as described in this article. I'm sure that there are multi-day tours of the Netherlands (and likely Belgium) too, but I have no personal experience with them. Also, it's not such a big country, so it's well doable to just stay in one location and take day trips to most of the best places - by train or with tours. Hope this helps.

Tuesday 11th of July 2023

thanks for all informations

Thursday 13th of July 2023

Glad to help. Enjoy The Netherlands!

Sunday 14th of February 2021

Hi Jurga, if we have time for just one place to visit near Amsterdam, which one do you recommend? We will be coming in September.

Monday 15th of February 2021

This is such a tough choice, Jamie! I think I'd go for a day tour that covers several places in a day. If you like to get to know smaller towns and see windmills, check out this tour. And if you rather visit cities, check out this day tour. If you go on your own, you can never see as much in a day. If you don't have a car, you can easily visit Zaanse Schans or Haarlem by train from Amsterdam, so that's probably the easiest option. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Amsterdam

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

After you've enjoyed the many wonderful tourist attractions in Amsterdam , it's easy to hop on a train or join a tour to see some of the many other places to visit in the Netherlands. Because the country is relatively small, you can reach most of its highlights in day trips from Amsterdam.

The spectacular gardens and tulip fields of Keukenhof are one of the most popular excursions, an easy half-day trip from Amsterdam. Other contenders for your time include the charming old fishing towns along the Ijsselmeer, the former Zuiderzee, and the open-air museum in Enkhuizen. Both are located just a little north of Amsterdam. You can also visit the country's largest concentration of historic Dutch windmills at Zaanse Schans.

Haarlem, Hoorn, and the famed porcelain makers in Delft are not too far away, either. And day trips from Amsterdam can also take you to two highly appealing cities in neighboring Belgium: Brussels and Bruges.

Discover the most rewarding things to do near the city with our list of the best day trips from Amsterdam.

1. See the "Garden of Europe": Keukenhof Gardens

2. explore enkhuizen and the zuiderzee museum, 3. visit alkmaar cheese market, 4. stroll the streets of historic haarlem, 5. see the historic windmills at zaanse schans open-air museum, 6. the canal city of bruges, 7. beautiful brussels, 9. the delta works and the maeslant barrier, 12. medemblik by steam train, map of day trips from amsterdam.

The Netherlands is well known the world over for its flowers, in particular its tulips. Just 38 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam, on the outskirts of the town of Lisse, is the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens. Also known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof, which literally translates as "kitchen gardens," is the best place to view the country's rich floral bounty.

Widely considered one of the world's most beautiful spring gardens, Keukenhof itself covers some 79 acres of land in the area known as the Netherlands' bulb belt, and is set in a picture-perfect landscape that once formed the kitchen garden (or keuken) of a large country estate.

In a complex that also includes restaurants, patios, and exhibitions, more than 700 varieties of tulips, hyacinths, crocuses, and daffodils are grown. All told, in excess of seven million flower bulbs are planted each year here. Keukenhof Gardens is also home to numerous flower-related events and festivals, from flower shows to markets and concerts.

An easy way to spend half a day here is on a Keukenhof Gardens and Flower Fields Half Day Tour . This fun six hour excursion by coach takes you through the Dutch countryside, past the fields in Lisse where the tulips are grown, before dropping you at Keukenhof, where you'll have plenty of time to stroll through the gardens. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off and the services of a professional guide. Morning or afternoon options are available.

Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands

Official site: https://keukenhof.nl/en/

Located on the Ijsselmeer, a shallow lake that was once part of the former Zuiderzee, Enkhuizen is one of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands.

Enkhuizen has a number of important historical attractions, among them two 15th-century churches and its 17th-century town walls and gates. A highlight is the Dromedaris Tower . This relic of the town's fortifications was built in 1540, and its carillon ranks among the finest in the Netherlands.

From the town's picturesque harbor, you can take the ferry to the Zuiderzee Museum , an open-air museum that focuses on the rich cultural traditions of the area. Here, you'll find fascinating displays of the Zuiderzee's maritime history and the ongoing process of land reclamation.

Highlights include a number of preserved 17th-century buildings, many old boats, as well as artifacts relating to the region's fishing traditions. Also on the IJsselmeer, about 40 minutes south of Enkhuizen, is the old fishing village of Volendam . It's well worth a visit to see its traditional fishing boats and colorful houses.

Address: Wierdijk 12 - 22, 1601 LA Enkhuizen, Netherlands

Official site: www.zuiderzeemuseum.nl/en/page/487/hoofdmenu-engels

Situated about 42 kilometers north of Amsterdam on the North Holland Canal and just eight kilometers from the North Sea is the charming town of Alkmaar. Filled with fine architectural monuments and old guild-houses from the 16th to 18th centuries, Alkmaar makes for a delightful day trip from Amsterdam.

But the real highlight of an excursion to this picturesque town is the world-famous Dutch Cheese Market ( Kaasdragersgilde Kaasmarkt Alkmaar). One of the best-known tourist attractions in the Netherlands, the cheese market is held every Friday in front of the town's Weigh-House in strict accordance with centuries-old traditions.

The first such market was held here in the 1590s, and it's a fascinating sight to watch as the square is covered with more than 23 tons of large, round Edam and Gouda cheeses. Adding to the experience is watching the cheese porters. Dressed in white and wearing hats in the colors of their guild, these porters carry sometimes as many as 80 Edam cheeses on cradle-like racks to be weighed. Before anything can be shipped off, the crowds are welcomed and bells are rung. English language explanations of the rituals are offered at 11:20am.

Afterwards, pop into the Alkmaar Cheese Museum . Located in the Weigh House, it contains interesting displays and exhibits on the history of cheesemaking and its importance to the local culture and economy.

Address: Houttil 26, 1811 JM Alkmaar, Netherlands

Official site: www.kaasmarkt.nl/en

Set on the little River Spaarne, about 19 kilometers west of Amsterdam, historic Haarlem is just seven kilometers from the North Sea coast. Established in 1245, Haarlem was a hotbed of artistic endeavor during the 17th century, when it became home to many of the country's most famous painters, some of whose works can be seen in the superb Frans Hals Museum .

A highlight of the city's old main square is the 14th-century Grote Kerk (St. Bavokerk). This huge Late Gothic structure is notable for its slender, 40-meter-tall tower. Also of note are the church's many rich furnishings. Of particular interest are the three old model warships, a nod to the church's role as the chapel of the Seamen's Guild.

Be sure to also check out the famous 18th-century Müller Organ . Said to be one of the greatest such instruments in the world, it's especially famous for its unique tone and decoration.

Finally, be sure to take a peek into the Old City Hall . Built in the 13th century, it's notable for its large tower and plush interior. English language guided tours are available.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Haarlem

The Zaanse Schans open-air museum (Zaans Museum) is so picture-perfect, it's hard to believe it's actually a real community. Based on the original village of Zaanland as it would have looked around 1700, the museum was established to preserve buildings threatened by industrial development.

Typical old wooden houses and windmills of the 17th and 18th centuries were taken down and carefully restored on the site, providing a vivid impression of life in earlier centuries. The overall effect is further enhanced by the fact that most of the houses are actually occupied.

Other features of note are its large collection of still functioning windmills. These include an oil mill, a paint mill, mustard mill, and a sawmill. Other heritage buildings still in use include a cheese-making dairy, an old bakery, a grocer's shop, a clog-maker's workshop, and a clock museum.

Guided tours are available, as is a very pleasant boat trip on the Zaan. This fun cruise offers great views of the old houses and windmills from the water.

An easy way to get to the museum is on a Zaanse Schans Windmills, Marken and Volendam Day Trip from Amsterdam , which adds to the experience by including two picturesque old villages. The tour includes entrance to one of the windmills, a visit to watch the wooden-shoe maker at work, and a visit to a cheese factory to sample local cheeses.

In the summer, the tour includes a boat trip between Marken and Volendam. These popular tours are available in half- or full-day formats. The museum is also a popular destination for cyclists and hikers, with numerous dedicated trails crisscrossing the area.

Address: Schansend 7, 1509 AW Zaandam, Netherlands

Official site: www.dezaanseschans.nl/en/

The canals that today make the Belgian city of Bruges one of Europe's most picturesque cities began as waterways connecting it to the Zwin estuary and the North Sea. Cruising or walking along these picturesque waterways will lead you to beautiful views of old houses, graceful bridges, and tiny gardens.

Some of the most popular sightseeing boat tours begin at any of five different landings. And for those wanting to walk, you can download an excellent walking tour map from the city's tourism website.

The market hall, which dates from medieval times and is beautifully preserved, dominates the main square. From its tower are sweeping views of the city's famous spires and steep pitched roofs.

You'll have five hours to explore this lovely city at leisure on a Bus Day Trip to Bruges from Amsterdam . This day-long adventure takes you through the Dutch and Belgian countryside by air-conditioned coach as you learn about Bruges from your English-speaking tour guide (a stop for chocolate sampling is included).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bruges

The capital of Belgium, Brussels is also the capital of the European Union. And although it is filled with beautiful Gothic and Baroque buildings and has a number of outstanding art and other museums, you won't find it anywhere near as crowded with tourists as many other European capitals.

Its main square, the Grand Place, is grand indeed, and one of the most elegant and best preserved public squares in all of Europe. Surrounding it are guild houses that were built in the late 1600s in the Baroque style, resplendent in ornately carved gables and balustrades with gold embellishments.

In contrast to these and other Baroque buildings and the older Gothic structures, Brussels is also where you'll find some of the finest examples of Art Nouveau design. The most famous works of the early 20th-century master architect Victor Horta are found in Brussels.

You'll have time to find some of these, and to sample that famed Belgian chocolate, on a full day tour in Brussels from Amsterdam . After a guided walking tour that includes highlights like the Royal Palace and Manneken Pis statue, you'll watch a demonstration by a chocolatier and get to taste some of the product before having free time to explore the city on your own. The tour's pickup and drop-off point is Amsterdam's Centraal Station.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Located south of Amsterdam, between The Hague and Rotterdam, Delft is known worldwide for the famous blue and white porcelain that's been made here since the 1600s. Most of the picturesque Old Town buildings date from the following century, when the Delft's pottery manufacture and export was at its height.

Along with its lovely old houses and canals, Delft has some fine Gothic churches and art museums. Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles (Royal Delft in English) is the only remaining maker of the famous Delftware, and you can watch the artists at work and see the collection of historical pieces.

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands

Official site: www.royaldelft.com/en_gb/

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Delft

Located about 70 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam just past The Hague on the Hook of Holland, the Maeslant Barrier (Maeslantkering) is just part of the country's massive Delta Works project, an engineering marvel designed to prevent flooding. The final piece of this engineering puzzle, the barrier consists of two huge gates capable of closing off the New Waterway when a storm surge threatens.

The visitor center in the historic Keringhuis provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and construction of the Delta Works project, as well as a chance to view shipping traffic as it sails in and out of Rotterdam. Plan your visit around a test closing of the barrier, details of which can be found on their website.

English language guided tours of the storm surge barrier and museum are available on weekends; reservations are required.

Address: Maeslantkeringweg 139, 3151 ZZ Hoek van Holland

Official site: www.keringhuis.nl/english

Another of the many quaint towns on the Ijsselmeer, Hoorn is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. The big draw here is its many fine historic buildings and picturesque waterside setting.

Highlights of a visit include exploring the town's two yacht harbors lined with their attractive 17th-century gabled houses, galleries, shops, and museums. Also worth seeing is the historic old Town Hall (Stadhuis), built in 1402 and originally home to the convent of St. Cecilia. Interior highlights include the 18th-century Council Chamber with its painting of the naval battle of 1573.

Also of note are the Grote Kerk from 1883 and the former St. Jans Gasthuis , dating from 1563 and known for its early Renaissance façade. The West Frisian Museum (Westfries Museum) displays collections from the 16th to the 18th centuries relating to the history of the town and surrounding area, including group portraits of the once famous marksmen's guilds.

The old Hanseatic town of Kampen lies on the left bank of the IJssel, four kilometers above its outflow into the Ijsselmeer. One of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands, Kampen dates back to the 12th century and was once the country's most important trading center with the Baltic area, as well as France and England.

Kampen has managed to preserve many of its most important old structures, including its 15th-century Town Gates . The best examples are the rectangular Koornmarktspoort, on the banks of the IJssel; the Broederpoort with its four corner towers; and the Cellebroederpoort, a rectangular structure with two round towers.

Immediately west of Kampen Town Hall is the Tower of the Holy Ghos t, also known as the New Tower as it was built 1664.

The best way to reach Medemblik is via Stoomtram Hoorn Medemblik, a 20-kilometer heritage railway line that runs from the equally picturesque town of Hoorn . Once there, you'll have plenty of time to explore the town before heading back to Hoorn (the route can also be done in the other direction).

Founded in the 10th century, Medemblik lies on the IJsselmeer and is home to Kasteel Radboud , an old fortress that's been fully restored and makes for a splendid photo. Other highlights include St. Bonifaciuskerk , a Late Gothic hall-church from the 15th century containing the tomb of Lord George Murray, a Jacobite commander at the battle of Culloden in Scotland in 1745; and the 17th-century Weigh House (Waag), used to weigh cheese.

Another must-visit is the Dutch Steam Engine Museum in the old pumping station, home to a collection of steam engines used on ships and in industry, most of them still in working order.

Address: Van Dedemstraat 8, 1624 NN Hoorn

Official site: www.stoomtram.nl/en/

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12 Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 20, 2024

With all the many exciting things to see and do in Amsterdam , it is no wonder that the city ranks as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. However, not venturing outside of the city would mean missing out on amazing experiences and sights such a 400-year old cheese-weighing tradition, a medieval village and the world’s largest flower garden.

With plenty of train and bus connections, tourists can easily plan day trips to see some of these hidden gems. Check out these great day trips from Amsterdam .

12. Utrecht

Utrecht is a good place for visitors to delve into the Netherlands’ past. This ancient city has been the religious center of the country since the eighth century. It was once the most important city in Holland until it was surpassed by Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden Age (17th century).

Not too many visitors venture the 50 km (31 miles) off the beaten path from Amsterdam, but more travelers should make the time to come to this historic city. It’s been called the most beautiful canal city in Europe – take that, Venice! A city known for independent thinking and creativity, Utrecht is perfect for visitors who enjoy the sidewalk café life, while looking up at the surrounding Gothic buildings.

Shoppers definitely will like the Hoog Catharijne, Holland’s largest indoor mall. Plus, this quintessential Dutch city, which exudes Old World charm, is easily traversed in a day on foot.

Getting to Utrecht

• The easiest way to get to Utrecht is to take a train from Amsterdam Central Station ; it takes just under half-an-hour to get from one to the other. The Intercity train leaves very regularly.

Cheese lovers will naturally want to gravitate to Edam, the small town where the famous cheese originated. This pale yellow round cheese, which comes wrapped in a red paraffin coat, was the world’s most popular cheese in the 14th to 16th centuries because it doesn’t spoil.

Spoilage is not a problem these days, because this smooth popular cheese doesn’t last long enough around the kitchen to go bad. Wednesday is a great day to visit Edam, a half-hour drive from Amsterdam, because the traditional cheese market happens then, with participants wearing traditional garb. If it’s a Wednesday in July or August, so much the better, because farmers bring their cheese to market loaded on boats or horses.

Edam was once a shipbuilding city, with ships carrying cargo that included Edam cheese because it could be traded for exotic spices. The city’s other main draw is the Edam Museum that is located in a 400-year-old residence.

Getting to Edam

• As it is only a half hour bus ride away, getting to Edam from Amsterdam couldn’t be easier. As such, it makes for a very easy day-trip.

The picturesque city of Leiden is a must-see for its scenic, tree-lined canals that are marked with old windmills, wooden bridges and lush parks. A boat ride down one of these lovely canals makes for an unforgettable experience.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Leiden such as the numerous museums that range from science and natural history to museums dedicated to windmills and Egyptian antiquities. Pay a visit to the Hortus Botanicus to see its sprawling botanical gardens and the world’s oldest academical observatory. Admire the beautiful architecture of the 16th century Church of St. Peter and check out its association with several historic people, including American pilgrims.

Getting to Leiden

• Lying to the southwest of Amsterdam on the way to The Hague, it only takes 40 minutes by train to get to Leiden.

9. Giethoorn

Travelers who don’t have time for Italy but don’t want to miss out on a canal ride should head to Giethoorn, a quaint Dutch village known as “Little Venice” or “Venice of the Netherlands.” Pretty much the only way to get around this traditional Dutch village is by boat or by walking from island to island – Giethoorn boasts 180 bridges.

The village is especially popular with Chinese tourists – upwards of 200,000 Chinese visit Giethoorn with its 2,000 residents annually. Giethoorn is quite picturesque with red-thatched houses lining the canals.

The village is quite peaceful, with no loud noises, making it a perfect day getaway from Amsterdam, about 120 km(75 miles) away in another world. Visitors can glide over the water trails at their own pace since motorboats are available for rent – the boats have quiet electric motors so as not to disturb the serene ambiance.

Getting to Giethoorn

• A nice way to get to know Giethoorn better is to take a guided tour around its scenic canals and beautiful islands. With a boat tour included, as well as ample time to explore the village at your leisure, it makes for a lovely day out. See prices

8. Rotterdam

Nearly 800 years ago, a dam was built on the Rotte River on the North Sea; a city grew up around it. That city became Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe, not surprising since the Rhine, Scheldt and Meuse rivers provide access to central Europe. Just 80 km (50 miles) from Amsterdam, Rotterdam offers so many things for visitors to see and do .

Because much of Rotterdam was destroyed during WWII, the architecture is varied. Travelers can take a harbor cruise to absorb the spectacular skyline. More great views of the city can be found atop Euromast, at 606 feet high, one of the highest towers in the country.

American history buffs may want to visit Pilgrim Fathers Church where the pilgrims worshipped before departing for Plymouth Rock and the New World. Travelers of all ages will enjoy the zoo and a ride on a coach that’s a motor vehicle one minute and a boat the next.

Getting to Rotterdam

• From Amsterdam, it couldn’t be simpler to get to Rotterdam; an Intercity train will whisk you there in just an hour and fifteen minutes.
• To make the most of their time in the country, many people decide to take a guided tour around Rotterdam. Some of them even include stops at the neighboring cities of Delft and The Hague – both are well worth visiting if you have the chance. See prices

A 40-minute train ride from Amsterdam will bring visitors to Alkmaar and its famous cheese market tradition that dates back to 1593. Every Friday between April and September, visitors can watch while costumed cheese traders re-enact a centuries-old practice of weighing more than 2,000 cheeses, stacking them on sled-style carriers and loading them onto trucks.

This colorful and lively event is so popular and fun to watch that it draws about 100,000 spectators annually. What’s more, there are plenty of stalls surrounding the market where visitors can buy Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edammer.

Getting to Alkmaar

• As the famous cheese market lies right in the center of Alkmaar, it is straightforward to get there by public transport from Amsterdam. Visitors need to take an Intercity train to Alkmaar from Amsterdam Central Station; this only takes 40 minutes.
• Another option is to take a guided tour; this not only takes you around the bustling cheese market, but also includes a stop at the lovely windmill village of Schermerhorn. See prices

6. The Hague

With all the government buildings located here, visitors might think The Hague is the capital of the Netherlands. It’s not – Amsterdam is the constitutional capital even though the cabinet, the legislature and the Supreme Court are located in this coastal city.

The city also is home to most embassies and 150 international organizations, including the International Court of Justice. All this bureaucracy aside, however, a visit to The Hague will keep visitors busy. Only an hour’s drive from Amsterdam, the city has a vibrant night life centered around its three main squares.

Not to be missed in the city center is the Binnenhof, a complex of 13th century waterside Gothic buildings where the Dutch parliament meets. Other sights to enjoy include Madurodam, a miniature Dutch city; Mauritshuis, with its paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer; Beelden aan Zee, an underground sculpture museum, and shopping in boutiques around the Grote Marktstraat.

Getting to the Hague

• From Amsterdam Central Station, The Hague is around 50 minutes away by train.
• If you don’t have much time, you may want to consider taking a guided tour, as some of them take you not only around The Hague, but also to neighboring Delft and Rotterdam. See prices

When travelers to the Netherlands think of Delft, their thoughts most likely turn to the pretty blue and white pottery the city is famous for. This tin-glazed pottery has been made here since the 16th century; it is based on Chinese ceramics. Vases, bowls and plates are especially popular, so this is a place to stock up on souvenirs.

But there’s more to do in this canal city than shop for pottery. There’s the Oude Kerk where Johannes Vermeer is buried, and the Nieuwe Kerk, where members of the Dutch royal family are buried. The Renaissance-style ornate Delft City Hall is across from the Nieuwe Kerk; today its where civil wedding ceremonies are held.

Other sites include the old weighing house and an 18th century windmill that was restored to working order in 2013. Hungry travelers can snack on Scheve Jantjes, a butter cookie that comes in a Delft blue tin container.

Getting to Delft

• Just over an hour from Amsterdam by train, Delft is an effortless and convenient day trip.
• To come away with a greater understanding of both fabulous cities, many people opt to take a guided tour, as this enables you to see all the main sights in just one day. See prices

Bruges is a well-preserved medieval town in the northern region of Belgium surrounded by beautiful canals and old city walls. This postcard-perfect town makes an ideal day trip from Amsterdam because of its fabulous attractions and activities.

Meander along the cobblestone paths of the city center to explore the historic walls and gates. Climb the stairs of the high tower at the Belfort Grote Markt to hear the bells ring and see wonderful views of the area. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which claims to contain a vial of blood belonging to Jesus Christ.

Tour the Brewery De Halve Maan to see how Belgian beer is processed and be rewarded with a free drink. Savor free samples of delicious Belgian chocolate at the Choco-Story Museum. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage around the old city.

Getting to Bruges

• From Amsterdam Central Station, you can take either an hour and fifteen minutes fast Thalys train to Antwerp , or a slightly slower Intercity train, which takes just under two hours. At Antwerp, you then board a direct train to Bruges, which takes about an hour.
• A more convenient option is to sign up for a guided tour; this takes you directly to Bruges in a private coach. See prices

3. Volendam

Want to experience authentic Dutch heritage? Hop on a bus in Amsterdam and travel 30 minutes north to the charming fishing village of Volendam. Visitors can walk around the bustling harbor to see colorful boats and have photos taken of themselves dressed in Dutch costumes with striped clothing, high-pointed bonnets and wooden clogs.

A stroll around the old village offers many attractive sights such as historic houses built on stilts and a beautiful 17th century church. Visit the Volendam Museum to learn about the village’s history and see artifacts, vintage furnishings and folk art.

Getting to Volendam

• Located on the beautiful Ijselmeer lake, Volendam is just a 30-minute bus journey away from Amsterdam Central Station.
• Many people who visit Volendam also combine it with a trip to the marvelous outdoor museum of Zaanse Schans. The best way to do this it to take a guided tour, as a private coach then takes you between the two. See prices

2. Zaanse Schans

Step back into Dutch history with an excursion to Zaanse Schans . Located 20 minutes from Amsterdam in the city of Zaanstad, the neighborhood of Zaanse Schans is a living, outdoor museum containing an impressive collection of historic windmills and other buildings. Here at this popular tourist attraction, visitors can learn about traditional Dutch life and watch various demonstrations such as cheese-processing, coffee-grinding and clog-making.

There is even a wonderful pancake restaurant here where visitors can dine on hearty Dutch food. Buy souvenirs here like cheeses, clogs and miniature Zaanse houses. For a special treat, see all of Zaanse Schans with a scenic ferry ride around the area.

Getting to Zaanse Schans

• From Amsterdam Central Station, visitors wishing to take a trip to the Zaanse Schans have a couple of options. By bus, it is around a 40-minute journey on the Rnet-bus 391, and this runs every 15 minutes. By train is a bit quicker, as it only takes 20 minutes, but as the nearest station is Zaandijk-Zaanse Schans, you then need to walk the last 15 minutes.
• Another way to see the fabulous outdoor museum is to take either a half-day or full-day guided tour. This will teach you all about the history of the place, as well as enable you to sample local products and witness how traditional wooden clogs were made. As part of the tour, visitors also get to check out the charming village of Volendam. See prices

1. Keukenhof Gardens

No list of day trips from Amsterdam would be complete without including the world’s largest flower garden, located near the small town of Lisse. Attracting more than 800,000 visitors annually, Keukenhof Gardens showcases an 80-acre complex of remarkable gardens that are designed in various themes such as the English Garden, Japanese Garden and Historical Garden.

Planted every year with seven million flower bulbs, these gardens explode into spectacular beauty each spring. To see and capture stunning photographs of these flower gardens, plan a trip during the open season that begins mid-March and ends mid-May. Situated across from the gardens is the Keukenhof Castle, which is opened year-round and frequently hosts events like festivals, music concerts and medieval fairs.

Getting to Keukenhof

• Located just a short distance away from the center of Amsterdam, the majestic Keukenhof Gardens are just under an hour away from the capital by bus or train. When heading to the gardens, it is a good idea to buy a Combiticket; this includes entrance to the gardens as well as the public transport to get there and back.
• To avoid the hassle of getting there by public transport, many people prefer to take a tour to Keukenhof Gardens; this includes direct transport and means you can enjoy the tulips at your leisure without having to worry about the journey back to Amsterdam. See prices

Map of day trips from Amsterdam

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Reader interactions.

May 10, 2018 at 8:49 pm

What about Haarlem. I visited this place while i stayed in Amsterdam last October and loved this place. Its only a 15min train ride away from Amsterdam. after that you could also visit Zandervoot an Zee which is on the same train line and only another 20mins and see a beautiful dutch beach.

May 18, 2017 at 3:35 am

Keukenhof is incredibly beautiful. I made a lot of pictures until my mobile was full and the camera ran out of battery. Make sure you have enough space and battery for making the photos! Well, I think the food and drink inside are quite expensive. If you could bring some yourself can save the budget. It also saves time if you buy the ticket online and don’t have to waste your time over there for buying the ticket…. The Zaanse Schans is also lovely. You may spend your money to buy some tickets. However, you do not need to do it! I bought no ticket and just wandered around the place…already happy and enjoy 🙂

January 27, 2016 at 5:50 am

The Zaanse Schans looks out of this world, so beautiful. We are planning on going on a bike trip through The Netherlands this year, do any of you know a organizer which provides a tour via the Zaanse Schans?

August 12, 2013 at 1:17 pm

Keukenhof is definitely worth a day trip from Amsterdam. Avoid the crowds by renting a bike and cycling off into the nearby tulip fields.

March 18, 2013 at 9:14 am

We have spend a lot of time in Holland, inviting friends from Canada to visit us and we showed them around. The most disappointing part has been the trips we made from Blaricum, where we rented a home, to Volendam. Some years ago we saw many of the Volendam population walk around in their traditional costumes,but on our last visit we have noticed that VERY FEW folk wear them anymore. Don’t the Volendam entrepreneurs realize that the reason tourist come to visit is to see them wear their local traditional clothes. Last visit we saw only ONE man in a store wear his costume. This was , to say the least, very disappointing.

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Amsterdam   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Greg Gibb Photography | Getty Images

28 Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam offers a lot more than vice. There's the world-class Van Gogh Museum , the eye opening  Rijksmuseum and shopping on Nine Little Streets for culture hounds. Lesser known cultural must-dos abound. At IJ Hallen flea market, you'll find

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Vondelpark Vondelpark free

Located southwest of the city center, Vondelpark is the favorite leafy retreat of just about everyone. Not only is it the largest city park in Amsterdam, but it's also one of the most revered in all of the Netherlands. Ponds, greenspaces and playgrounds are connected by winding paths, which also run by an open-air theater, a restaurant and a range of statues and sculptures. Most recent travelers said they enjoyed people-watching and picnicking at the park; other reviewers recommend avoiding a late-night visit as the park can be a little frightening once the sun sets. During the day, though, the park is filled with couples, families and friends, and is definitely worth a visit.

Open 24/7, you can take trams 1, 2 or 5 to the Leidseplein station, and you'll have just a quick walk (less than 5 minutes) to reach the park's entrance. The park is free to visit.

Canal Ring Canal Ring free

Architecture and history buffs will delight in Amsterdam's Canal Ring area. This half-moon of canals dates to the 17th century. Today, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elaborate gables notable in Dutch architecture are on full display across hundreds of brick houses. Places of particular interest include Rembrandtplein (a prominent public square, named for Rembrandt, who owned a home nearby), historic warehouses, Protestant churches and formerly clandestine Catholic and Mennonite churches. Look up sites of interest online to determine opening hours.

The built environment is the big draw here, although recent visitors found plenty to enjoy within the historic buildings too – there are plenty of shopping, dining, and drinking spots. Visitors come for the views as much as the fare, so consider planning to eat at one of the scenic restaurants here (Incanto and Brasserie Ambassade are particularly well-reviewed). Many noted that this is a good area from which to embark on a bike or boat adventure.

Oud-West Oud-West free

Bordered by must-see attractions like Vondelpark and the Rijksmuseum , Oud-West is a refined Amsterdam neighborhood bursting with shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Come to Oud-West during the day to visit stylish boutiques and design stores after visiting Vondelpark. Or, plan a trip into the neighborhood for dinner – there's De Hallen (a food hall and cinema), street food and endless restaurants and cafes. Upscale Restaurant Adam is exceptionally well reviewed, as is the more affordable option, Staring at Jacob. After a meal, you can dance the night away at one of Amsterdam's alternative music venues.

Oud-West, like many of Amsterdam's neighborhoods, is bursting with quirky urban touches. Consider a stop by the Boomzagertje statue (a humorous little sculpture of a man cutting into a real tree branch) or the Gevelbibliotheek – an homage to a former library in the area. Recent visitors to Oud-West particularly enjoyed the less touristy feel, abundance of beautiful architecture, and kid-friendly spots.

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Jordaan Jordaan free

If you love history, culture and food, then you'll want to save time for a stroll or a guided tour through Amsterdam's Jordaan area. Located a few blocks west of the city's main train station and bordered by the Brouwersgracht, Prinsengracht, Leidsegracht and Lijnbaansgracht canals, this scenic neighborhood is packed with eateries, specialty shops, bars and art galleries. Plus, you'll find the Anne Frank House and the Nine Little Streets just east of the neighborhood.

Travelers highly recommend walking around the Jordaan, adding that its cool vibe, beautiful setting and top-notch cafes and restaurants more than justify a visit. Don't forget to bring your camera, since visitors say the area offers ample photo opportunities. For a more in-depth look at the neighborhood's food scene, consider signing up for Eating Europe Food Tours ' Jordaan Food Tour. Or, visit on a Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy the Jordaan's Biologische Noordermarkt (a market with vendors selling baked goods, produce, local cheeses, crepes and more).

Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis) Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis)

Inside the Anne Frank House, travelers will see the location where not so long ago the 15-year-old Anne Frank penned a journal that would become a best-seller. Frank was a Jewish girl who went into hiding after German Nazis invaded the Netherlands and began forcibly transporting Dutch Jews to concentration camps. Today, the home is a museum and travelers can imagine what it'd be like to stay hidden away from the Nazis for more than two years, only to be betrayed and taken to a concentration camp.

Artifacts inside the museum include historical documents, photographs, film images and belongings from people in hiding and those who assisted them. Frank's original diary and other notebooks are also on display, though original objects from the annex are not on display, as it was stripped of its contents during World War II. A free audio guide – available in nine languages – is included with admission.

Dam Square Dam Square free

Europe is known for its grand public squares, and Amsterdam boasts plenty. Those arriving at Amsterdam's Central Station can walk just five minutes to arrive at bustling Dam Square. The historic 13th-century buildings are filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. Food stalls are available too. Those looking for more sightseeing opportunities should note the Royal Palace , New Church and consider a visit to Madame Tussauds.

Recent visitors praised the square for its beauty and central location. While several previous travelers note that it is touristy – with prices to match – they still recommend a visit. It is beautiful at night when filled with lights. Be aware of your surroundings, as the area can attract pickpockets.

Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum) Verzetsmuseum (Dutch Resistance Museum)

The  Verzetsmuseum  (the Dutch Resistance Museum), located by the  Artis Royal Zoo , has been called the city's best-kept secret by some. The informative – even inspiring – museum tells the stories of those who lived in the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation and explains how the atrocities of World War II transpired. Through authentic objects, photos and documents, film and sound fragments, visitors will learn how the resistance manifested in the Netherlands.

Recent travelers said the thought-provoking museum leads you to ask yourself what you would've done if the Nazis had occupied your country. They were also pleased with the audio guides that are given with the ticket price, as well as with the exhibits which are displayed in both Dutch and English.

Van Gogh Museum Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum holds the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, including "Sunflowers" and "Almond Blossom." The museum itself is one of the most-visited museums in not only Amsterdam but in all of the Netherlands. Travelers come from near and far to see the artworks created by the tortured artist, who cut off his own ear and died by suicide due to his worries about his financial future and recurring mental illness.

Because of Van Gogh's popularity, some travelers highly recommend purchasing online tickets ahead of time to avoid lengthy museum lines. Though some were disappointed that the museum does not house some of the artist's more famous paintings (many of them are exhibited in other museums across the globe), reviewers did praise the museum's layout and its display of his earliest works.

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Leidseplein Leidseplein free

If you're looking for a tamer alternative to Amsterdam's Red Light District, Leidseplein or Leiden Square, may be for you. The center of Amsterdam's entertainment scene, Leidseplein sits southwest of the city center and is filled with nightclubs, movie theaters, concert venues, casinos and, of course, some coffee shops. For the performing arts, the Melkweg (Milky Way) concert hall and the International City Theater are of particular note.

Leidseplein is the place to be if you enjoy mixing with the masses. If crowds aren't your thing, you should steer clear of this area – definitely don't book a hotel or hostel here – or maybe head to the nearby Vondelpark instead. Travelers were also pleasantly surprised by the quantity and variety of restaurants huddled in the neighborhood, though they do warn of high prices at the bars.

Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour Explore Amsterdam from the water on a boat tour

Few things are as representative of Amsterdam as its picturesque canals. Home to 165 waterways (including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 17th-Century Canal Ring Area ), the city prides itself on its impressive canal system.

It's easy to see the canals during a bike tour or while walking around the city center, but for a closer look at the water network, sign up for a canal cruise. Many tour operators offer different kinds of boat tours around downtown Amsterdam. The following are some of the city's most popular options:

Keukenhof Keukenhof

U.S. News Insider Tip: It can be tricky to plan your visit during peak bloom. However, there are many other flower displays, like a stunning array of orchids, which make a visit worthwhile. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Originally used by Dutch royalty to grow fruits and vegetables, Keukenhof now welcomes travelers in search of Holland's famous tulips. Every year between late March and mid-May, the park – which sits about 25 miles southwest of Amsterdam in Lisse – turns vivid shades of pink, red, purple, yellow, white and orange as more than 7 million tulip bulbs bloom across 80 acres. The park also offers kid-friendly amenities like a playground, a maze and a petting zoo.

De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets) free

De Negen Straatjes,  or the Nine Little Streets, are exactly that – nine streets that run between the Prinsengracht and Singel canals and are lined with shops and boutiques. (For your orientation, the Singel is the first main canal that wraps around the city center.) Vintage clothing shops nestle alongside accessories stores and interior design boutiques, and hours vary by store.

Recent travelers called the area a lovely place to stroll and said it was less touristy than other parts of the city. Though you'll likely rub elbows with plenty of other travelers, you'll also encounter your fair share of locals.

De Pijp De Pijp free

De Pijp, which is also called the Latin Quarter, is known for its 19th-century architecture and its collision of different cultures. Here, you'll find ethnic restaurants, eclectic shops and the tranquil Sarphatipark. The Heineken Experience sits on the northern edge of the neighborhood. 

Travelers say that De Pijp feels less touristy and more like authentic Amsterdam. They also call it the heart of the city for young people thanks to its beatnik vibe and trendy eateries.

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Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike Learn about Amsterdam atop a bike

Biking is one of the most popular ways to get around Amsterdam. In fact, cycling is such a quintessential Amsterdam activity that the city's tourism website offers pages with free route maps and cycling safety tips .

But if you don't feel like renting a bike and exploring on your own, you'll find an array of bike tours catering to every kind of visitor. Below are several traveler-approved cycling tour companies:

I amsterdam Letters I amsterdam Letters free

Measuring more than 6 feet tall and 77-plus feet wide, the red-and-white "I amsterdam" sign is a prime place for a photo op. You'll find the main set of massive letters situated inside Amsterdam Airport Schiphol; however, multiple versions are typically on display throughout the city.

Although some previous visitors were disappointed that the main sign no longer sits in front of the Rijksmuseum , many enjoyed snapping pics of the smaller version at the airport. An additional set of letters appears at various events throughout the year, so if you plan on attending a large festival while in town, look around to see if the sign is on-site. You can also spot the letters while jogging the track by Sloterplas Lake, but some characters in this set lie flat, so it's not ideal for photographing.

Rijksmuseum (State Museum) Rijksmuseum (State Museum)

Considered one of Amsterdam's top museums (along with the  Van Gogh  and  Anne Frank  museums), the  Rijksmuseum  (or State Museum) features an impressive collection of artists, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. As befits a state museum, the ornate building contains mostly Dutch works from the 15th to 17th centuries – though its entire collection stretches across 800 years.

Visitors recommend getting to the Rijksmuseum as early as possible in the day to avoid standing in a line to enjoy both the breathtaking building, grounds and art. The busiest times are Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. And once you've finished touring the interior, step outside and enjoy the gardens – a recommendation from past visitors. Though some reviewers griped about the museum's confusing layout, they still said it was among their top to-dos in Amsterdam.

Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

For a glimpse at how locals lived and worshipped during the 17th century, visit the Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Soldier. Part-home, part-church, this historic site is the second-oldest museum in Amsterdam (behind the Telyers Museum). On the lower levels, you'll find period furnishings spread throughout living areas, kitchens and bedrooms, as well as a set of stairs that lead to the attic, where the church is located. Religious services no longer take place at the church, but the property offers various exhibits about religious tolerance in the Netherlands, as the Catholic Church had to operate in secret in its early years in the country.

History buffs and religious travelers will likely enjoy wandering around this museum. Visitors praise the property's beautiful interior and interesting exhibits, adding that the complimentary audio tour offers many informative tidbits. Keep in mind, the building's small size and multiple staircases may make some parts of the property difficult to access for those with mobility issues.

Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra) Artis Royal Zoo (Natura Artis Magistra)

Visitors traveling with children in tow might want to make some space in their itinerary for the Artis Royal Zoo. Lions, monkeys and penguins are housed here, along with about another 900 species, and there's also an aquarium, an insectarium, a butterfly garden and a planetarium.

Although most recent visitors described the zoo as lovely, well maintained and a great family day, some of them concede that enclosures for the animals seemed a bit small.

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Stedelijk Museum Stedelijk Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: This museum is often far less crowded than the Rijksmuseum! Go to the Rijksmuseum at opening time and the Stedelijk later in the day. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

Situated next to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum in the Museumplein area, the Stedelijk Museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary art: It has 100,000 works. Inside its permanent exhibit, travelers will find pieces by artists like Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock. Additionally, the property features temporary collections that may include items like modern sculptures and documentaries.

Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam Eating Europe Food Tours Amsterdam

Amsterdam visitors who love learning about a destination through its food scene will likely enjoy participating in a food tour . Traveler-approved Eating Europe Food Tours offers multiple food outings, including the Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour which tacks on an hourlong boat tour to tastings throughout the city. The company's most popular experience is its Jordaan Food Tour, a 3.5-hour tour through the culturally and historically rich Jordaan neighborhood. During the excursion, foodies can try local staples which may include apple pie, raw herring, Gouda cheese and stroopwafel (a thin waffle with a caramel filling).

Previous participants raved about the Jordaan Food Tour, citing its small group size (no more than 12 people can join an outing), knowledgeable guides and large tasting portions as highlights. Several also appreciated the inclusion of a beer from a local brewery during the tour. To make the most of the excursion, past travelers suggest saving room for every dish by eating a light breakfast (or skipping it altogether).

Heineken Experience Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience, which takes place in the old  Heineken Brouwerij  (Heineken Brewery), is a must-do for fans of the fermented beverage. Among the attractions housed in the century-old factory are a history of the Heineken brewing process and company. Plus, you'll get two Heinekens to enjoy at the end of the Experience. A downloadable app takes visitors on a historical journey through the factory (available for iPhones and Androids). You should note that only those 18 and older are allowed inside.

Although some recent travelers highly recommend taking the tour at the Heineken Experience, others described it as a marketing ploy rather than a tutorial in the beer-brewing process (the real brewery used for production sits on the outskirts of Amsterdam; this location is simply a museum).

A'DAM Lookout A'DAM Lookout

Opened in 2016, A'DAM Lookout provides some of the best views of downtown Amsterdam from its location in the southern corner of the Overhoeks neighborhood. The property's main draw is its observation deck on the 20th floor, which provides 360-degree panoramas of the city's port and canals. Before admiring the view, visitors can peruse the property's interactive exhibit. Adrenaline junkies won't want to miss Over the Edge (Europe's highest swing) on the outdoor rooftop deck, while foodies should save time for a bite to eat at Madam (an internationally-inspired eatery on the 20th floor) or Moon (the 19th floor's upscale revolving restaurant).

Visitors cannot get enough of A'DAM Lookout's breathtaking vistas. However, a few lament the extra charge required for the swing. Nevertheless, many recommend paying the additional 7.50 euros (about $8) for the fun experience. Because the swing is a popular activity, travelers suggest purchasing tickets in advance on the attraction's tickets page .

Concertgebouw Concertgebouw

Constructed in 1888, the  Concertgebouw (literally "Concert Building") hosts 900-plus shows and about 700,000 visitors per year, which makes it one of the world's busiest concert venues. Check the Concertgebouw's  website  for a list of orchestral and other performances, as well as for ticket prices, which vary by show. From time to time, the venue also offers free lunchtime performances.

Recent visitors called this one of the world's best concert halls, which offers fairly reasonable ticket prices. If you're hoping to attend one of the venue's free concerts, plan to arrive early – past visitors said the staff at Concertgebouw hands out tickets on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Royal Palace Amsterdam Royal Palace Amsterdam

Built in the 17th century by architect Jacob van Campen, the Royal Palace Amsterdam once served as Amsterdam's town hall. The grand structure held the distinction of being the largest secular building in Europe for many years. Throughout the years, it's been used by Dutch royalty for official events, such as visits by foreign leaders. Members of the public are welcome to tour the property when the building isn't in use for state visits.

Although visitors offer mixed feelings about the property's exterior, many say the palace's period furnishings and works of art are well worth checking out. Complimentary English audio guides (which travelers recommend for historical context) are available; however, a few caution that the devices are not very comfortable on their own, so consider bringing a pair of headphones to use with them.

NEMO Science Museum NEMO Science Museum

Anyone that says Amsterdam isn't for kids hasn't visited the NEMO Science Museum, housed inside the ship-like green building on the harbor. Filled with hands-on activities, kids can spend hours concocting chemistry experiences and constructing buildings while also learning how science has evolved throughout time.

Recent visitors say this is a do-not-miss attraction not only for kids but also for those young at heart, since there are interactive exhibits for all curious minds. Even if you don't have time to take a spin through the museum, past visitors said you should still go to access the free rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and a cafe and does not charge an entrance fee.

Zandvoort Zandvoort free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To make a day out of your visit, take a quick train ride to Haarlem, a charming town located a few miles east of the beach. – Jacqueline Drayer, Contributor

You probably knew about Amsterdam's canals, but what about its beach? About 25 miles west of the city center is a place called Zandvoort, a strip of sand that borders the North Sea. Experts say Zandvoort is at its best in the summertime, though recent visitors say a trip here in the offseason is also worthwhile since it lacks the summertime crowds.

Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum) Het Scheepvaartmuseum (The National Maritime Museum)

Whether you're a boat enthusiast or want to learn more about Dutch maritime history, Amsterdam's National Maritime Museum is worth a visit. Located about halfway between the Verzetsmuseum and the NEMO Science Museum , The National Maritime Museum houses one of the world's largest maritime collections, with roughly 400,000 different items. Artifacts you'll find here include navigation instruments like compasses, the Royal Barge (an intricate royal vessel commissioned for King William I in the early 19th century) and a life-size replica of the Amsterdam (a ship that wrecked during its maiden voyage to Asia in 1749).

Several visitors raved about the exhibits, especially the one focusing on navigation. Although, a few past travelers warned the museum offers a gimmicky atmosphere, could use additional information and interactive displays, and charges high entrance fees. Many previous museumgoers recommended the virtual reality experience on the Amsterdam ship, which shows you how the city's historic harbor grew to become a bustling port.

Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House) Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House)

Rembrandt van Rijn (yep, Rembrandt is his first, not last name) once lived and worked in this restored home. So not only will you see the most complete collection of his etchings here, you'll also view his own interesting accumulation of  objets d'art , from musical instruments to Roman busts. An audio guide is included in the admission, and many travelers recommend using it. The museum reopened in March 2023 following a renovation to introduce five new museums spaces, including more etching and exhibit areas and a multimedia tour dedicated to the artist's life.

Several travelers also highly recommend watching one of the etching demonstrations, which they say gives a more comprehensive understanding of the art and takes place three times a day. However, if you're traveling with kids, you may want to skip this attraction as past visitors said there is little to interest youngsters.

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• 39 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Bucket List

We all know Amsterdam as being among Europe’s most sought-after, bustling cities that have made its way to the top of many travelers’ wish lists.

You’ve surely added the likes of the Anne Frank House and the Heineken Experience to your itinerary, but that’s really just the start of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

This is a city that has such a diverse and extensive range of things to see and do; you could spend a week here and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.

To ensure you get the most out of your Amsterdam trip, I have created this fool-proof guide to the Dutch capital’s incredible range of things to do. 

From indoor activities on those rainy days to foodie experiences you’ll dream about after you’ve arrived home, let’s jump into this Amsterdam bucket list.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Amsterdam?

If your trip is coming up soon and you still haven’t booked anything, we have you covered! Below you can find our top picks when it comes to hotels, tours, getting around, and more.

Best Tours and Experiences in Amsterdam

• Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option (top-rated canal cruise)
• Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour
• Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour (most popular day trip)
• Van Gogh Museum Ticket (sells out really fast so make sure to grab them as soon as possible)
• Heineken Experience (must-have tour for beer lovers)

Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

• Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht (best hotel in Amsterdam with canal views)
• W Amsterdam (amazing 5-star hotel with a stunning rooftop pool)
• De L’Europe Amsterdam (best luxury hotel in Amsterdam)
• Linden Hotel (amazing mid-range option in Jordaan)
• Singel Hotel Amsterdam (great budget pick in the city center)

Looking for the best way to get around Amsterdam? Make sure to buy a GVB Public Transport Ticket . Even if you only use public transport a few times, it’s already worth it!

Planning to visit a handful of attractions? You can save a lot of money by purchasing the I Amsterdam City Card . It includes free entry to more than 70 attractions, unlimited access to public transport, and a free canal cruise!

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Looking for a quick answer to the must-visit sights in Amsterdam? Here are the top 10 best things to do in Amsterdam that you absolutely can’t miss!

• Take a canal cruise
• Visit the Rijksmuseum
• Explore Anne Frank House
• Enjoy art at the Van Gogh Museum
• Try the famous stroopwafels
• Walk through the Red Light District
• Take in the views from the A’DAM Lookout
• Taste local specialties at Foodhallen
• Visit the Heineken Experience
• Explore the Floating Flower Market

Now, if you want to know more about each activity above and discover even more amazing things to do in Amsterdam, keep reading!

Best Outdoor Things to Do in Amsterdam

1. take a canal cruise.

Kicking things off with an excursion you can’t miss, a cruise around some of Amsterdam’s 165 canals is usually everyone’s first stop when they touch down in the Dutch capital.

As gorgeous as the city looks from the canal-side walkways, there’s something magical about exploring the area from the water. Winding through the narrow canals, ducking under tiny bridges, and admiring the architecture, a cruise is a pretty unparalleled introduction to Amsterdam.

When it comes to canal cruises in Amsterdam, you’ll have a myriad of options. To save you from going through them all, here are my top picks:

Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise – Have your cameras ready as you sail past 17th-century canal houses and fleets of busy cyclists during this 75-minute tour. You’ll get an insight into Amsterdam’s eventful history through the onboard audio guide, which is available in 19 languages.

Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option – This really is as good as it sounds! Take the basic package, and you’ll cruise by spots like the Skinny Bridge and Red Light District, or add on unlimited cheese and wine or beer to level up your journey!

Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise – Watch Amsterdam come to life when the sun goes down on this romantic evening hour-and-a-half boat tour, where you’ll see the likes of A’DAM Tower alight under the stars and discover hidden pockets of the city.

Read Next: 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With

2. Rent a bike and cycle around the city

When in Amsterdam, do as the locals do! Provided you’ve mentally prepared for the jam-packed streets, of course.

In a city famed for its cycling culture, it’s no surprise that many tourists want to try their hand at making their way around on two wheels, but it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Though there’s plenty of excellent cycling infrastructure, bikers in Amsterdam are known for being super-speedy and ruthless at times, so make sure you’re confident in your bike handling skills before taking to the bike lanes.

You’ll come across dozens of bike rental stores around the city, or you can join a cycling tour where you’ll be in safe hands traveling as a group.

I highly recommend this Guided Bike Tour of Central Amsterdam , where you’ll zip through the city in groups of 15 people or less over the space of three hours.

3. Stroll around Vondelpark

From an often chaotic Amsterdam experience to something much more laid-back, the lush Vondelpark will be a place to catch your breath after a few hours of cycling or wandering the lively streets. 

Vondelpark is the city’s largest urban park and is at the top of the best places to visit in Amsterdam to see another side of the capital. 

In fact, if you’re keen to rent a bike but don’t want to face the notoriously hectic bike lanes, Vondelpark is an excellent place for a leisurely cycle.

Whether you choose to cycle or walk, you’ll love getting some peace and quiet in the city’s backyard. Better yet, grab a coffee from any of the park’s cafes, bring some snacks, and have a lake-side picnic. 

If you’re like me and love all things pretty and colorful, stroll over to the northwest of the park, where you’ll see the rose garden filled with more than 70 beautiful varieties.

4. Take in the views from the A’DAM Lookout

For the finest views in all of Amsterdam, the A’DAM Lookout is the place to go. Not only can you take in unspoiled vistas of the canals, city center, and busy port, but you can do so from Europe’s highest swing.

If this has your adrenaline flowing, up the ante and experience the Amsterdam VR rollercoaster ride, where you’ll feel like you’re zooming past all the iconic sites at high speeds.

As if all of these activities weren’t enough, A’DAM Lookout transforms into a music venue with live DJ sets all evening during the summer. At the same time, you can also get a bite at their panoramic bar and restaurant if you fancy. 

Entry tickets also grant you access to their interactive exhibition and fascinating audio tour, retelling the story of Amsterdam’s past.

Entry tickets can start from as low as €14.50 when you purchase them online , or you can take your pick from their bundles featuring the swing, VR ride, and a meal.

5. Participate in a guided walking tour

Walking tours have become my go-to when I have landed in a new city for the first time, as it’s such a fantastic way to find your bearings while getting a sense of the local area.

In a city as pedestrian-friendly as Amsterdam, a walking tour allows you to explore the narrow streets and laneways you’d miss out on with buses and private transfers. 

Most tours last for around two or three hours, stopping by many of the highlights that are a must for an Amsterdam visit, including the Jewish Quarter and the Torenslius Bridge.

Another reason why I have become so fond of these tours is because of the amazing guides that run them! It’s the best opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow travelers, and dive deep into the culture.

SANDEMANs NEW Amsterdam are some of the best in the business, offering outings in English or Spanish. Each tour is free of charge, though it’s important to remember to give a tip to show some appreciation to your guide.

Read Next: 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Ultimate Amsterdam Itinerary

Best Indoor Things to Do in Amsterdam

6. visit the rijksmuseum.

This time, we’re heading indoors to Amsterdam’s most renowned cultural hub, which I’m confident you’ve heard about before – the Rijksmuseum .

Even though this museum celebrates the history of The Netherlands, many people flock here to catch a glimpse of the works of some of the nation’s most acclaimed artists, from Vincent Van Gogh to Rembrandt van Rijn.

The Rijksmuseum is the home of paintings many of you’ll recognize, with the most prized pieces including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Johannes Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, and Van Gogh’s self-portrait.

However, you’ll find over 6,000 artworks here, so you will definitely need at least a couple of hours to check out as much as possible.

You don’t need to be an art devotee to appreciate this spectacular museum, but if you’re somewhat of a connoisseur, you can spend hours here examining and making sense of the paintings, sculptures, and ornaments.

As visiting the Rijksmuseum is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam, it’s worth booking your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines.

7. Explore the Anne Frank House

The heartwrenching but compelling tale of Anne Frank is brought to life in Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House.

You can travel back through time and explore the secret annex where she wrote her iconic diary that tells the tale of how her family hid from Nazi forces for over two years during the Second World War. 

To ensure you can see the museum’s collection of original items, photos, and videos, you’ll need to secure your tickets weeks before your trip to Amsterdam, as tickets infamously sell out over a month in advance.

Every Tuesday, the tickets go on sale for the upcoming six weeks on the Anne Frank House official site , where you can get an adult ticket for €16.

8. Enjoy art at the Van Gogh Museum

If the Rijksmuseum left a lasting impression on you, the Van Gogh Museum should be next on your list. Anyone visiting on a bit of a time crunch will be glad to know that the two museums are just minutes apart. 

As well as hundreds of paintings and drawings from the Dutch artist himself, thousands of pieces from Van Gogh’s contemporaries call this extensive gallery home. This includes mesmerizing Japanese and French prints Van Gogh collected during the 19th century.

Similar to the Anne Frank House, tickets to the Van Gogh Museum are usually in high demand and sell out really far in advance. You’ll have to book your tickets at least a month prior to your visit, so make sure to keep your eye on the website once you have your travel dates.

9. Discover the Stedelijk Museum

Is contemporary art more your vibe? The Stedelijk Museum’s 90,000-piece collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture is sure to keep you enthralled.

Only around 500 pieces are displayed at a time as the museum rotates the artworks they showcase. In just one visit, you can cast your eyes on late 19th-century paintings, Art Deco furniture, and modern drawings.

Some of the artists you can expect to feature include the likes of Piet Mondrian, Andy Warhol, and Lucio Fontana. 

Art buffs can easily explore the Stedelijk Museum on the same day as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, as these three spots, which together make up Amsterdam’s most beloved art galleries, are all within the Museum Square.

Buy your tickets on the day or beat the lines and snap yours up for €22.50 online ahead of time.

10. Visit the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Many visitors often don’t realize that The Netherlands is still a monarchy to this day! The Royal Palace Amsterdam is one of three palaces owned by the Dutch royals.

During your visit, you can see where King Willem-Alexander hosts state visits, prestigious dinners, and special occasions right in the heart of the city in Dam Square.

Inside, you can head to the jaw-dropping, marble-clad Citizen’s Hall, which was constructed when the palace was initially designed as Amsterdam’s town hall. Even the floors are magnificent here, showcasing some of the world’s largest maps.

Entry fees start from €12.50 for adults, though you can upgrade to a tour package from €95. This palace is open most days, but double-check for any upcoming royal events before your visit.

11. Learn at the NEMO Science Museum

When you’ve had your fill of art galleries, unleash your inner child at the NEMO Science Museum . As you amble around the Oosterdokseiland neighborhood, you won’t be able to miss the green boat-like building that plays host to this interactive, hands-on museum.

Set over five floors, this is definitely among the most fun things to do in Amsterdam if you’re looking for something entirely different from the classic tourist hotspots. It’s also the perfect place to keep the little ones amused if you’re traveling as a family.

NEMO boasts exhibitions for all things science, from how forces of nature work and the development of humankind to the explanation of natural phenomena and how massive structures are built. Both you and your kids will definitely learn a thing or two during your visit!

12. Pop into the Basilica of St. Nicholas

Another spot that’s sometimes surprisingly omitted from visitor’s itineraries is the Basilica of St. Nicholas.

As Amsterdam’s most revered Catholic church, you can expect to be blown away when you head inside. Exquisite stained glass windows, detailed murals, dimmed lighting, and high ceilings are just some of the highlights of this structure.

However, the exterior is pretty marketable, too! Designed with a range of architectural styles in mind, St. Nicholas’ Basilica blends in perfectly with the Amsterdam skyline.

Stop by between 12 and 12:30 pm or from 1 – 3 pm any day except Sunday. You’ll also enjoy free entry to the basilica too.

13. Explore Madame Tussauds

No matter how many times you visit Madame Tussauds , each trip always makes for an entertaining few hours of celebrity spotting.

Make your way to Dam Square and snap some shots of you with the often shockingly realistic wax sculptures of stars like Harry Styles, Jennifer Aniston, Beyonce, and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Something I love about the Amsterdam branch of Madame Tussauds is the variety of combination packages they have, helping you to cut the costs of some of the city’s attractions.

Both the THIS IS HOLLAND 5D flying experience, and the eerie Amsterdam Dungeon can be combined with your Madam Tussauds ticket, saving you up to almost €30.

14. Wander through the Amsterdam Dungeon

Speaking of the Amsterdam Dungeon , this is possibly the best thing to do in Amsterdam if you’re a horror movie fanatic or love a thrill.

Bring your friends along and see who can hold their nerve for the longest as your spooky guide takes you through over 500 years of Amsterdam’s most chilling past events. 

You’ll encounter plenty of unsettling characters along the way as you watch a host of talented actors take you through terrifying mazes, acquaint you with tortured ghosts, and bring the legend of the Flying Dutchman to life.

If you’re jumpy and scared easily, this might not be the activity for you! The same goes for younger guests under the age of 10.

15. Visit the Eye Filmmuseum

Whether you’re a movie guru or just enjoy visiting somewhere a little different, the Eye Filmmuseum is the center of Amsterdam’s film scene.

There really is so much to see and do here, from the museum detailing the movie-making process and production to the various cinema rooms displaying Dutch and international films. 

Different filmmakers, movie styles, and aspects of cinemas are the subject of many of the rotating exhibitions and programs, though they also have some permanent fixtures.

An absolute must during your visit is to create your own flipbook, which is so much fun to do with your loved ones and costs less than €7 to buy. Select the exhibition you want to see and reserve your spot online.

16. Check out the Moco Museum

I don’t claim to be an art expert, but I have found the Moco Museum to be absolutely brilliant, and it definitely needs to have a space in your Amsterdam to-do list.

Exhibiting modern art from a mix of established artists and up-and-coming talent, the Moco Museum is filled with weird and wonderful masterpieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and thought-provoking.

Everything from dizzying optical illusions to contemporary photography features in this small but eye-catching museum, where the works of artists like Banksy sit alongside pieces by undiscovered creators.

Each entry pass includes an informative audio guide to give you some background and food for thought about each exhibition.

17. Shop at Magna Plaza

You’d easily be fooled into thinking this sublime neo-Gothic structure was an old-world five-star hotel or government building rather than a shopping center.

Magna Plaza has got to be one of the prettiest malls in the world, with some incredible Romanesque arches and a glass dome roof making the inside as impressive as the exterior.

Originally constructed as a post office, Magna Plaza is now home to an eclectic mix of stores, ranging from international brands like Mango to Dutch chains like Sissy Boy and quirky cheesemongers and candle shops.

Even if you don’t feel like you’re in need of some retail therapy (or simply have no room left in your suitcase!), a stop at Magna Plaza is totally worth it to admire the beauty of this historic building.

Best Foodie Things to Do in Amsterdam

18. try the famous stroopwafels.

What better way to soak up the culture in a new country than to tuck into some native dishes, or desserts in this case.

A sweet and chewy stroopwafel should be a first on your foodie Amsterdam bucket list! The name itself translates to syrup waffle, which sums up these treats pretty well.

Made from two thin layers of sweet dough with a caramel filling cementing them together, stroopwafels are available in shops, cafes, and restaurants all over Amsterdam.

However, there are two spots that I have a particular soft spot for.

Van Wonderen Stroopwafels – Anyone who has seen stroopwafels on Instagram was probably looking at Van Wonderen’s offerings! As the busiest spot in town, you’ll likely have to queue to get your hands on their marshmallow-topped stroopwafels.

Melly’s StroopWafels – The place to go for reasonably priced stroopwafels, this cozy store serves up freshly baked goods with your choice of toppings, including Smarties, Oreo, Lotus, and nuts, to name a few.

19. Taste local specialties at Foodhallen

Amsterdam’s famous Foodhallen would give any food court a run for its money. First-time visitors should head straight to De Ballenbar, an ever-busy stand where a Michelin-star chef and his team prepare their own take on bitterballs, a type of Dutch meatball.

These breaded meatballs are traditionally filled with beef, but De Ballenbar offers patrons unique, drool-worthy fillings like shrimp and truffle. 

After you’ve stocked up on bitter balls, you’ll have your pick for 19 other stands if you’re still feeling peckish. Choosing where to eat is always an arduous task here, as you’ll be torn between healthy Mexican eats, Asian street food, and fresh sushi.

20. Attend a food tour 

For a more in-depth introduction to Dutch cuisine, a food tour will give you plenty of opportunities to taste some of the finest dishes The Netherlands has to offer.

Here are a couple of tried and tested culinary adventures!

Jordaan District Local Food Walking Tour – Jordaan has made a name for itself as a foodie haven for many years now, and this tour takes you to six eateries in the neighborhood over three hours. Your guide will be a fountain of knowledge about traditional eats and the local history.

Private Food Tour with a Local – Go restaurant hopping with your expert local guide in the lively Pijp district, where you and your travel buddies can munch on a mixture of ten different local food and drink offerings on your own private excursion.

Food Lovers Walking Tour with Tastings – Sightseeing has never tasted so good! Learn about the Royal Palace and Flower Market as you feast on eight Dutch specialties, with the likes of crispy Dutch fries and apple tarts on the menu.

21. Cheese And Wine Tasting

Is there ever a bad time for wine and cheese? As the birthplace of Gouda and Edam varieties, the Dutch certainly know what they’re talking about when it comes to cheese.

They also know a thing or two about wine, as you’ll quickly learn throughout this tasting experience . 

Over the course of an hour, you’ll become well-versed in the best cheese and wine pairings. Each tasting provides guests with five types of cheese, accompanied by three glasses of wine.

When you’ve had your fair share of both, you’ll receive a 10% discount for in-store purchases, where you can search for the ultimate souvenir.

22. Indulge in a delicious brunch

You don’t have to visit on a Sunday to experience a tasty Amsterdam-style brunch!

Brunch has become an increasingly popular concept in the city over the last few years, with new spots regularly popping up while many long-standing haunts have also added the mid-morning meal to their menus. 

There are so many trendy spots scattered around Amsterdam, but you’ll find some of my go-to’s below.

Bakers & Roasters – With two locations in the city, you’re never too far from Bakers & Roasters’ brunch, served every day of the week. The team here is all about ethically sourced ingredients, which go into their breakfast burritos, eggs benedict, and pancake stacks. 

Coffee & Coconuts – The rustic wooden furniture and red brick walls have made this place one of the coolest brunch spots in town. Avocado toast and coconut pancakes are served alongside their specialty coffee.

Omelegg – After trying their delectable brunch dishes, you’ll understand why Omelegg’s two branches are always packed! As the name suggests, this spot is all about omelets, serving varieties like chicken and pesto, halloumi, and chorizo. 

Read Next: 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

23. Have dinner on a cruise

Make your dinner plans a bit more special with an evening meal onboard a canal cruise.

Seeing the center of Amsterdam light up after dark from your boat is just magical! Couple it with a hearty meal, and you’ve got yourself a night to remember. 

Take a look through the dinner cruises below to start planning your night on the canal.

Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu – For something upmarket, I think this tour will fit the bill. As you begin your meal, which is available with meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes, your guide will talk you through the landmarks you pass along the way. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are also included.

Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks – A much more casual affair, this cruise offers guests their choice of one of five pizzas and two beers, wines, or soft drinks. On a sunny summer evening, there’s no better place to be in Amsterdam!

Private BBQ Cruise with Personal Chef & Drinks – Are you heading to Amsterdam with your pals? You’re going to love this! For two hours, you can rent out a private boat with unlimited drinks, where you’ll have your pick of BBQ classics like steaks, burgers, and skewers, each of which has a veggie alternative. 

24. Visit the Heineken Experience

It wouldn’t be a list of the best things to do in Amsterdam without mentioning the Heineken Experience .

Avid Heineken drinkers will no doubt have plans to visit this iconic former brewery. Even if beer isn’t your thing, don’t let this stop you from joining in on one of these interactive tours, which are a lot of fun.

The tours take place in Heineken’s former brewery, where the world-famous beer was produced up until the late 1980s. 

For 90 minutes, you’ll explore the site where the lager was first created, get an insight into the brewing process, and taste two glasses of the most exceptional Heineken you’ll ever try.

Prices for this outing start from €23, but you can add access to a rooftop bar or canal cruise for an extra fee. 

25. Head out on a guided beer or prosecco bike tour

It’s safe to say that the title of this tour speaks for itself. When you’re considering what to do in Amsterdam, it’s unlikely that a boozy bike trip will initially spring to mind! However, these fun-filled tours are guaranteed to keep you and your gang entertained.

For around an hour and a half, your group will peddle their way through the streets of Amsterdam while working through 20 liters of beer or a bottle of Prosecco each. 

Better yet, you can have a mix of both during the beers and bubbles experience if you’re having trouble deciding.

Each tour usually can cater for up to six passengers, excluding your guide, who can take over the peddling when you’ve had one too many Proseccos.

26. Board the Pancake Boat Cruise

For something more low-key, the Pancake Boat Cruise is an excellent family-friendly activity that combines sightseeing and delicious grub.

This boat trip will take you along Amsterdam’s River IJ, which is one of the few cruises that doesn’t run along the canals. From here, you’ll be able to spot sites like the A’DAM Lookout and the Eye Filmmuseum.

Now, onto the main event, the Dutch pancakes! Did I mention that these are all-you-can-eat pancakes? You heard that right! You’ll spend your cruise snacking on these divine traditional desserts, which you can pair with your choice of fruits, jams, cheese, and ham.

Kids can spend time in the onboard playground area when they’re not stocking up on pancakes. 

Best Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

27. stroll around the canals.

Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam are completely free of charge.

Wandering around the seemingly endless canals is what the city’s all about, and you could easily spend an afternoon here watching cruises sail by, admiring the historic houses, and chilling out with coffee along the banks.

With so many canals running through Amsterdam, you’ll want to prioritize which ones you want to visit, as stopping by them all would be a challenging feat.

You can’t miss Prisengracht, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Kloveniersburgwal, but you should also consider adding Groenburgwal, Brouwersgracht, and Singel to your itinerary.

28. Visit Albert Cuyp Market

Europe’s largest day market lies right in the heart of Amsterdam. Situated in the de Pijp neighborhood, the Albert Cuyp Market plays host to over 260 stalls and has become as popular with tourists as it is with locals. 

You’ll likely hear people saying that anything you could ever need can be found at the Albert Cuyp Market, and they’re not lying! Clothes, jewelry, fresh vegetables, cheese, flowers, handbags, and reading glasses are just a fraction of the goods you can pick up here.

Of course, it’s not a free activity if you decide to purchase something, but many visitors come here just to see the market in action and take in the sights and smells of this bustling part of town.

29. People-watch at Dam Square

As well as being home to the Royal Palace and Madame Tussauds, Dam Square is also a marvelous place to do some people-watching.

Perch yourself on a bench or join the groups of other people who have gathered on the steps and simply watch the world go by! Whether you’re looking to save some cash or just want to rest your feet after a day of explorations, Dam Square is your best bet for an easygoing afternoon.

The National Monument is also found in Dam Square and is free to visit. This towering white stone structure was built in the 1950s to commemorate those who lost their lives fighting for The Netherlands in wars and conflicts.

30. Explore the Floating Flower Market

As the world’s only floating flower market, this unique bazaar is a must-do if you’re strolling along the Singel Canal.

Once you step inside the houseboats comprising this quirky marketplace, you’ll be treated to an impossibly beautiful and ultra-colorful array of flowers and other plants.

The main attraction is undoubtedly the storefronts covered with gorgeous tulips in every color, which are even more majestic if you visit in spring when they’ll be in full bloom.

Daffodils, roses, orchids, and numerous other flowers are also on display here, and the vibrant color scheme extends to the souvenirs. Magnets, clogs, and trinkets are on sale in every color under the sun.

31. Walk through the Red Light District 

Amsterdam has become well-known for quite a number of things, one of them being the infamous Red Light District.

You wouldn’t be alone in assuming that an area famed for its sex trade is a seedy and dangerous neighborhood that’s best to avoid, but the Red Light District is a lot safer and friendlier than you’d imagine.

During the daytime, the area doesn’t look too dissimilar from any other narrow street in the city, but at night, you’ll notice tons of packed bars, busy streets, and neon red lights everywhere you look.

Once you abide by the rules and refrain from taking pictures of sex workers, you can stroll through the area hassle-free. 

A couple of interesting Red Light District tours are on offer to get a better understanding of the district, though this would mean you’re no longer visiting for free.

32. Snap a picture at the Damrak Canal Houses

You might find your camera roll overflowing after your trip to Amsterdam, as the city really is as picture-perfect as you’d imagine. One spot that you’ll have to capture the perfect shot of is the view of the Damrak Canal Houses.

These famously lopsided houses have become some of the most photographed canal houses in the city, and finding them is also super straightforward.

As you leave the Central Train Station, make a slight left and head down Damrak Street for just over 400 meters (0.25 miles), and you’ll soon be greeted by these quirky houses on your left. You’ll arrive at a great vantage point for your Instagram-worthy photos from here!

Best Day Trips from Amsterdam 

33. keukenhof.

Would you believe me if I told you that Keukenhof, aptly nicknamed the Garden of Europe, was only a 30-minute drive from the center of Amsterdam?

Those old-school windmills, endless fields, and immaculate gardens filled with tulips that Holland is renowned for are much easier to reach from the capital than you’d expect. 

As these gardens are only open for around eight weeks of the year, you’ll need to plan your visit between March and May.

You have a couple of options to get here. The quickest way to reach Keukenhof is by car, but taxis can be costly, so it may work out cheaper to get a rental car and make your own way there. 

Lots of tour companies run shuttle buses from Central Station, which is a more budget-friendly alternative. 

For a fuss-free experience, the Keukenhof & Windmill Village Guided Tour will take care of your transport, entry ticket, and guided tour. This particular day trip also allows you to see traditional clogs being crafted and even includes a cheese tasting.

34. Zaanse Schans

Another picturesque area that seems like a world away from Amsterdam is Zaanse Schans, a stunning neighborhood in the town of Zaandam.

You’ll be transported back to the 19th century as you wander past colorful wooden houses and windmills, many of which were actually relocated here from other towns nearby towns.

Zaanse Schans is reachable by car in less than 20 minutes, or you can hop on one of the buses from Central Station, which takes around 40 minutes. 

I recommend catching the short train to Zaandijk – Zaanse Schans and walking to the neighborhood from here. Alternatively, if you’re up for an active day, you can rent a bike and visit Zaanse Schans on two wheels!

If you are after a hassle-free experience, check out this Guided Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Tour , where you’ll see the best of the area with your knowledgeable guide.

Another great option is this Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour . It’s a full-day tour that combines Zaanse Schans with trips to the adorable Volendam fishing village and the town of Edam. No prizes for guessing why Edam is so well-known!

35. Giethoorn

Giethoorn might just be the cutest village you’ll ever lay your eyes on! Narrow waterways, old-fashioned thatched-roof homes, and wooden bridges make up this car-free pocket of The Netherlands. 

Unless you’re renting a car, the best way to get to Giethoorn is by taking the train from Central Station to Zwolle train station and changing to the 70 bus from here until you reach the village center.

If you’d rather let someone else do the planning, the Giethoorn & Enclosing Dike Day Trip will tick all of your boxes, taking you past the Enclosing Dike, a dam-come-motorway on your journey to Giethoorn.

While here, you’ll go on a tranquil cruise along the water and go for a wander during your free time.

36. Volendam

The Netherlands is blessed with some of Europe’s loveliest towns and villages, and Volendam is among the best of them.

With direct links to the center of Amsterdam, you can reach Volendam in less than 25 minutes on bus 316 and enjoy the town’s delightful seafood alongside the fishing boats and multi-colored homes.

For a deep dive into Dutch culture, I think you’ll find this Marken, Volendam, and Edam Full-Day Tour to your liking. On this excursion, you’ll stop by the teeny village of Marken and get a masterclass in cheese-making in the town of Edam.

This tour also offers some add-ons for an extra special day out, such as a boat trip, windmill entry, and a clog-making demonstration.

37. Rotterdam

The Netherlands’s second most-populated city, Rotterdam, is Amsterdam’s modern and eclectic little sister, where you’ll be in awe of the bold architecture, high-rise buildings, and big-city vibe.

Exploring Rotterdam from Amsterdam is so convenient, as both the high-speed and regular trains will land you here in under an hour. 

Anyone short on time can spend an afternoon checking the cube houses, the Market Hall, and the massive harbor off their lists before returning to Amsterdam in no time.

I suggest looking into this Guided Trip to Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague for a well-rounded and fascinating day trip. After you’ve seen Rotterdam’s highlights, you’ll head to the charming city of Delft and The Hague, which the Dutch royal family and government call home.

For a European adventure, take advantage of Amsterdam’s close proximity to Belgium and spend a day in the enchanting city of Bruges.

Though Bruges is much smaller than Amsterdam, it’s a city that’s also famed for its canals and storied past. 

Amsterdam is extremely well-connected, making it possible to arrive in Bruges within three hours by train. There are also a few companies that operate buses between the two cities, and this is often a cheaper option.

If you’d rather join a guided tour, this Day Trip to Bruges from Amsterdam tour has you covered. You’ll spend some of your day visiting spots like the Grote Markt and the Belfry with your guide, as well as getting some free time.

39. Brussels 

From one captivating Belgian city to another, you won’t regret spending some of your vacation in lively Brussels.

Unless you’re joining a guided tour, I recommend taking a high-speed train from Amsterdam, which will bring you to the Belgian capital in under two hours. Catch an early departure to ensure you have ample time to visit the Grand Place, Royal Galleries, and some chocolate shops.

Brussels has so much to see and do, and this day trip will take you to all the must-see spots while also taking care of your transport. When you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, you’ll have some extra time to munch on Belgian fries and waffles or sample one of their legendary beers.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

If you’re a first-time visitor, then you’ll want to stay close to the city center, and there are plenty of options.

De Pijp is the city’s bohemian quarter and home to some of the best bars and streetside cafes. If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, then Jordaan is an excellent option with its gorgeous 17th-century townhouses and top-class restaurants. Oud West is another charming area with leafy parks and plenty to do.

If you want to read more about the best areas to stay in the city, make sure to check out our in-depth post about  where to stay in Amsterdam . For an unforgettable stay, browse through the list of the  best Amsterdam hotels with canal views or the best luxury hotels in Amsterdam .

In case you’re in a rush, here are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.

• Ultimate Luxury  |  Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam
• Best Views  |  Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht
• Rooftop Pool  |  W Amsterdam
• Mid-range  |  Hotel Mercier
• Budget  |  Conscious Hotel Westerpark

Planning a trip to Amsterdam?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Amsterdam. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Amsterdam hotel guides:

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam: 10 Best Areas & Hotels
• 24 Best Amsterdam Hotels with Canal Views
• 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Amsterdam for an Unforgettable City Break

Amsterdam travel guides:

• 16 Best Canal Cruises in Amsterdam You Can’t Go Wrong With
• One Day in Amsterdam: How to See the Best of Amsterdam in a Day
• The Perfect 2 Days in Amsterdam Itinerary for First Timers
• 3 Days in Amsterdam: The Perfect Amsterdam Itinerary
• How to Spend 4 Days in Amsterdam: Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers
• 14 Best Breakfast Places in Amsterdam You Have to Try

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Home » Europe » Netherlands » Amsterdam

35 BEST Places to Visit in Amsterdam (2024)

Travelling to Amsterdam is the stuff of dreams for a lot of people. It’s foreign enough to be exciting and familiar enough to feel safe and comforting. It conjures up images of tulips and cafés with wafting smoke and charming buildings from a time gone by. Whether you enjoy world class museums, architecture, history or the nightlife, there’s definitely always something to do in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam also comes with a reputation of being a bit of a party town and a place where vices can be indulged in without fear of prosecution. Whatever you believe in with regards the stance of the Dutch government on such activities, it’s certainly an eye opening experience to explore this side of the city in which ever way you feel comfortable. As long as you stick to the rules and have your wits about you, you should have an amazing time in this city however you decide to experience it!

To help you create the trip of your dreams, we’ve created this guide to the best places to visit in this amazing city and there’s so much more to see than just the Red Light District!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Amsterdam:

These are the best places to visit in amsterdam, faq on the best places to visit in amsterdam.

It’s our pick for the best neighbourhood for a first-time trip to Amsterdam because it is conveniently located for hitting the sightseeing hotspots, you’re close enough to the nightlife without being put off by the red light district, and there’s a good choice of accommodation, shops, restaurants, and attractions right at your fingertips. From here you can walk to places like the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh museum, the Royal Palace, Red Light District and the Rembrandt house museum or take a canal cruise to the rest of the city.

• Admire the artistic works at Museum Het Schip.
• Go window shopping along some of the best shopping streets in the country: the Haarlemmerstraat and Haarlemmerdijk.
• Relax at Het Stenen Hoofd, an urban beach that’s popular with locals.

Not only do we have the low down on the absolute best attractions, but also which neighbourhoods boast the best hostels in Amsterdam . If hostels aren’t your cup of tea, there’s more where that came from. From quaint Airbnb’s to boutique hotels, be sure to check out the best places to stay in Amsterdam before you take a deep dive into the fun that awaits you below.

Looking forward to exploring Amsterdam, well there’s more to the city than the infamous Red Light District. There are world-class tourist attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum and the Royal Palace or maybe you want to reflect at the Anne Frank House or catch an exhibition in Museum square after an unforgettable canal cruise! There’s something for everyone, even backpackers on a budget in Amsterdam .

With Amsterdam City Pass , you can experience the best of Amsterdam at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Amsterdam is also a perfect starting point for your travels around The Netherlands and there are plenty of other amazing cities, towns and villages to explore once you’ve finished in Amsterdam.

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#1 – The Rijksmuseum

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• Make sure you check out the Night Watch by Rembrandt.
• Great for art lovers and people who enjoy looking at notable Dutch painters.
• This National Museum is a must-see while you’re in Amsterdam!

Why it’s awesome : If you’re an art lover, or just want to see some of the most amazing pieces of artwork in the world, then you need to spend some time in the National Museum. Not only will you be astounded at how different the art looks in real life versus in the pages of a book, but you might just discover a new interest in Dutch painters!

What to do there : The Rijksmuseum is contained inside of an awesome, artistic building and the works of art within are a match for it. You can literally spend hours here wandering between the displays and discover artists you’ve never heard of as well as old favourites. Just make sure you take a long look at Rembrandt’ Night Watch, it’s truly one of the most incredible paintings in the world. Some people visit Amsterdam just for the art museums (others, just for the drugs and hookers).

#2 – The Van Gogh Museum – One of the most amazing places in Amsterdam!

• The Van Gogh museum is great for art lovers.
• A place where you can take some amazing photographs!
• The Van Gogh museum is a absolutely vital part of Dutch history.

Why it’s awesome : It’s Vincent Van Gogh. The man hated and reviled in his own time and yet now almost universally loved. The pictures he painted showed life at its most beautiful and vibrant, full of light and colour in a way that ordinary people can’t see. Through the Van Gogh museum, you’ll be able to glimpse a work you will rarely get to see, and that’s definitely worth savouring. A visit to Van Gogh’s legacy is an essential thing to do in Amsterdam .

What to do there : Try to see through this artist’s eyes while you’re in the Van Gogh museum. He had a rare way of seeing the world, a way that was full of life and colour, and yet his own life was filled with so much darkness and confusion. That’s why the beauty of his artwork deserves to be honoured. So make sure you take your time when you visit the largest collection of his work in the world.

#3 – The Red Light District

• The most famous or infamous part of the city.
• A whole new world, and an important part of the culture.
• Can be a little dangerous at night, so limit the amount you drink, stay with friends, and watch your belongings.

Why it’s so awesome : Well, you know why. This is the area that makes Amsterdam famous and it’s also the area that causes the most controversy. If you have any qualms about whether Amsterdam is safe or object to some of the more permissive sides of the culture in Amsterdam, then it’s best that you avoid this area. This is also definitely not an area where you would bring children. But, if you’re curious and careful, you’ll see a whole other side of the city when you spend time in this district.

What to do there : This area is bright, colourful, and there’s always something going on. That makes it an interesting place to visit and people watch, whether you agree with Amsterdam’s pragmatic approach to the sex trade or not. Just be careful about taking photos, as you could get yourself into trouble, and use your common sense to avoid any serious issues while in the area.

#4 – The Anne Frank Museum – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Amsterdam

• Home to one of the most famous stories from the Second World War.
• An important historical monument.
• A sad and touching place to visit.

Why it’s so important : The Anne Frank House isn’t awesome in the sense that it’s fun. Far from it. Instead, it’s a sad reminder of a dark time in the world’s history. It’s also a site that’s familiar to a lot of people. In most schools, the Diary of Anne Frank is required reading, so a lot of people know at least the basics about this girl’s sad but profound story. It’s another thing to see the house in real life, to imagine her everyday life, her fear and even her tragic ending. The Anne Frank House is something that everyone should see at least once in their lives.

What to do there : Anne Frank’s house is now a museum and educational centre. It’s not a fun place to go. It’s actually quite chilling to wander the halls of the house and to visit the secret annexe where she lived for such a short time. The Anne Frank House is an incredibly important place to visit if only to honour the memory of that brave girl and her family.

#5 – The Westertoren – One of Amsterdam’s coolest historical sites!

• Great for photographers.
• The stairs will give you a nice little bit of exercise to work off all the rich food.
• Only open in the summer, so consider what time of year you visit Amsterdam .

Why it’s awesome : There’s nothing like seeing a new city from high up and in Amsterdam, this is the best place to do that. You’ll be able to see the city in a whole new way and in a small group as well, so there won’t be any pushing or jostling for the best photography spots. It’s also one of the best historical spots in Amsterdam, which is really saying something in this city!

What to do there : This is the tallest and the prettiest tower in Amsterdam, so the views are amazing from the top. You’ll need to book a guided tour to the top, and they only take a few tourists at a time, so make sure you get there early to reserve your place. Once you’re up there, take plenty of photos of Amsterdam from this amazing bird’s eye view, so make sure that you bring your camera with you.

#6 – The Bloemenmarkt – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Amsterdam

• A free and colorful display.
• Great for photographs.
• A chance to sit back and observe real life in Amsterdam.

Why it’s awesome : Two words: floating flowers. This is a floating flower market set along the southern bank of the Singel. It actually a very practical market, which supplies fresh flowers to Amsterdam. But its popularity with tourists and locals alike have caused it to expand so there are now stalls selling other souvenirs unique to this part of the world.

What to do there : Where else can you see beautiful blooms of almost every colour you can imagine set against the river? This is a floating flower market a sight to savour and you can people-watch at the same time. You can also do some shopping while in the area and you’ll find clogs as well as other uniquely Dutch souvenirs. But if you are a traveller on a budget and don’t want to spend any money, you can just wander around the area, enjoy the sights and stay in one of Amsterdams best cheap hostels .

Wonder what to do in Amsterdam for 3 days? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Amsterdam guide!

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#7 – Vondelpark – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Amsterdam

• A chance to get out in nature.
• A relaxed vibe where you can barbeque and explore wooded trails.
• Has an amazing open theater where you can catch a show.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam’s permissive nature also extends to their wooded areas. This is one of the few parks in the world where you can indulge in behaviour not usually allowed in public, with a few exceptions. This park is also popular with the locals as a place to exercise or just hang out in nature. And there are trails all over the park as well as a rose garden and an outdoor theatre if you want to get even more from the experience!

What to do there : Run, cycle, explore the trails or just take some friends along and have your lunch in the park. Find out what shows are playing at the theatre if you’re interested in catching one or just soak up the beauty of nature in the middle of the city!

#8 – Albert Cuyp Markt – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Amsterdam

• A chance to mingle with the locals.
• Buy some fresh food or just wander the stalls.
• You can also find clothes and souvenirs here, just  remember to bargain!

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes when you travel, you just want to get away from the tourist traps and experience real life. And this market is a chance to do just that. Here you’ll see the locals bargaining for their groceries and generally going about their lives. And it’s a great way to get to see another side of this famous city.

What to do there : You’ll find a vast array of foods, clothes, and souvenirs here if you’re interested in shopping. Make sure you watch the locals beforehand, so you know how much to pay for what you want and a bargain! Bargaining is considered an integral part of the experience, so don’t be embarrassed and just enjoy the process.

#9 – De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

• An amazing historical spot.
• Perfect for photographers and people who want that iconic Amsterdam shot.
• An area that’s full of personality and quirky charm.

Why it’s so awesome : The Nine Streets is a historical area that has a lot of quirky charm packed into a relatively small area. The shops here are all unique, unusual, and have a flair that isn’t often seen in these days of department stores, which makes them a joy to explore and experience. This is the kind of area that gave Amsterdam its reputation as one of the most laidback cities in the world, so it’s an absolute pleasure to spend some time exploring it in detail.

What to do there: Make sure you put aside an entire afternoon, or a day, to wander the Nine Streets. This area is filled with historical detail, quirky cafes, and boutiques with some of the most unique and interesting goods you’ll ever see. So do some shopping or just set up shop in a café and watch the world go by. After all, this relaxed and laidback vibe is what Amsterdam is really about.

#10 – The Concertgebouw

• A chance to listen to some free music!
• A beautiful building that’s been recently refurbished and looks great in photos.
• Great for culture lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : This is an incredible arts venue that’s the home of the famous and much-lauded Koninklijk Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. The acoustics here are amazing, which turns an already impressive musical performance into something that has to be heard to be believed.

What to do there : If you visit this venue at lunchtime you may be able to catch a free concert and enjoy the music without breaking the bank. Otherwise, it’s also worth going at night when you can get the full experience of listening to the remarkable orchestra the way it was meant to be heard.

#11 – NSDM Wharf – Cool place to see in Amsterdam with friends!

• A great place to go bar hopping.
• The whole area is beach front so you can eat and look out over the water.
• There is always something going on here, from festivals to exhibitions and other events.

Why it’s so awesome : The NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard that’s been turned into one of Amsterdam’s cultural hot spots. It’s come a long way from its slightly grimy roots and now is the place to see and be seen, with some amazing restaurants, bars and shops around the area. There’s an artistic vibe to this area that elevates it above the usual tourist spots and makes it well worth checking out.

What to do there : There’s always something going on in this area from the weekend flea market to festivals and exhibitions. So while you’re in Amsterdam, make sure you find a schedule of what’s on and pick out what you want to see. And even if there isn’t anything in particular happening, it’s still a great spot to eat a meal in a beachfront restaurant or to check out some bars.

#12 – Flevopark

• A giant natural area.
• There are lots of amenities here, including an outdoor pool.
• If you get tired of all the nature, head over to the brewery for a snack and a drink!

Why it’s so awesome : Flevopark is an enormous open area in the middle of Oost and it’s the perfect place to get some exercise or just lounge about in the fresh air. There’s something for everyone in this park, from running trails to a tennis club and even a brewery where you can undo all the good work you’ve just done.

What to do there : This is the type of park that has something for everyone so you can literally do whatever you want to do here. If you’re feeling energetic, go for a swim in the outdoor pool, wander the trails or play a game of tennis. And if you’re feeling lazy, just lounge about on the grass or grab a drink and some snacks at the Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep microbrewery.

#13 – Brouwerij ‘t IJ – A must visit place to visit in Amsterdam on the weekend!

• An iconic brewery.
• One of the first breweries in Amsterdam and still very popular.
• A must visit for beer lovers and anyone who enjoys trying a variety of brews.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone should drink beer in a windmill at some stage in their lives and this is the perfect place to do it. This microbrewery is the original in Amsterdam and is located in a working windmill. It has a wide variety of brews as well as some traditional Dutch snacks such as boiled eggs.

What to do there : Try to visit the brewery on a sunny day so you can sit out on the terrace and enjoy the sunshine while you snack and drink. Just make sure to follow the rules of safe travel and stay aware of how much you’re drinking, the brews tend to be higher in alcohol content than you would think!

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#14 – Blijberg aan Zee

• A chance to soak up the beach vibe.
• Perfect if you want a relaxing day.
• Clean water and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Great for sunbathing and swimming.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam itself doesn’t have many places to swim, which is why this location is the perfect addition to any trip. The beach is located off a man-made island called IJburg and it’s just a short tram ride from the centre of the city. The water is clean and calm and basically, it’s the perfect place to have a lazy day sunbathing and enjoying the water.

What to do there : This is a family-friendly location with clean water, bright sun, and lots of restaurants and cafes in the area that sell great food. When you visit this beach, make sure you spend your time relaxing. The beach’s laidback atmosphere encourages sunbathing, swimming, and spending time with friends, so give in to it and just have a wonderful break from the busy heart of the city.

#15 – EYE Film Institute – Cool place to see in Amsterdam with friends!

• See a movie in style.
• An amazing, architectural building.
• The shop has a lot of quirky, cinematic memorabilia and souvenirs.

Why it’s so awesome : Unlike many of the other great sites in Amsterdam, this building is a modern marvel. Quirky and eye-catching on its own, it houses a cinema, film museum, shop, restaurant and café, all of them well worth spending some time in. There are also some fun and educational displays and experiences targeted at kids, so it’s a great place to take the family.

What to do there : This is no ordinary cinema. If you love quirky, independent films, cult classics and documentaries, then this is the place for you. The cinema is open 7 days a week and specialises in these genres. And if you really enjoy these kinds of movies, then the shop is a great place to pick up some unusual memorabilia of your visit.

#16 – Foodhallen – A must-see for foodies!

• One of the best places to enjoy Amsterdam’s food scene!
• A great place to go in a group or on your own.
• A super trendy area with a quirky vibe.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love food, and who doesn’t, then this is the best place in Amsterdam. In this neighbourhood, you’ll find everything you’ve ever wanted to eat from dim sum to pizza and doughnuts. This area was once an old tram depot, so it has plenty of history behind it. But it’s now filled with food stores that offer some of the best snacks in the city.

What to do there : Take your appetite and go from stall to stall in this area. Try everything that peaks your fancy and take your food to one of the outside benches and watch the crowds while you eat. When you’re full, there are several shops and boutiques selling clothes, ornaments and other goods that you can browse in. And as is the norm with Amsterdam, the shops are all quirky and unique, so make sure you enjoy the atmosphere while you’re there.

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#17 – Begijnhof – One of the most religious places to see in Amsterdam

• Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Explore Amsterdam’s religious past.
• Take in the tranquility and contemplate your life, the world and everything.

Why it’s so awesome : Amsterdam is incredibly laidback but it’s still a city and that means that it’s busy and crowded. If you need a little break, then this garden is the perfect place to take it. The garden and courtyard are in the middle of houses that once belonged to the Beguines, a religious group that admitted only unmarried women under a vow of chastity. This has given the area a quiet, contemplative vibe.

What to do there : This is a quint, medieval corner of Amsterdam that feels worlds away from the crowded city. There’s just something about it that encourages contemplation and thought and it’s a wonderful introduction to Amsterdam’s religious past. While you’re there, make sure you take a look at the city’s oldest wooden house, which was added to the area in 1425.

#18 – Cuypers Library – A nice quiet place to see in Amsterdam

• For book lovers and art lovers.
• An incredibly gorgeous place to sit and enjoy a book.
• Almost magical surroundings.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re a reader then you’ll love this place. The building is stunning and brings to mind books of magic where the main character is thrust into an incredible adventure after opening an unusual book. The library is attached to a museum, but few tourists venture beyond the museum into this part of the building. And that’s a shame because this is one of the largest art history libraries in the country and it’s a lovely place to sit and read for a while.

What to do there: If you love books then you’ll love this place. It will give you a chance to sit and read about all the amazing works of art you’ve experienced since landing in Amsterdam. It’s also a quiet and beautiful haven away from the busy streets and tourists. The only people you’ll see here are scholars quietly toiling away at their chosen disciplines. So if you need a quiet afternoon in a beautiful place, this is where to go.

#19 – Theatre Tuschinski

• Interesting art deco decorations.
• Includes a cinema as well as a stage for live productions.
• The building has a tragic history because the architect was Polish, and his entire family was killed at a German concentration camp.

Why it’s so awesome : This theatre is a confusing mix of styles that’s oddly beautiful and well worth seeing on their own. The imposing exterior hides bright, colourful walls and rooms on the inside, and the building has been recently refurbished so it’s looking its best. This might seem like a strange place to catch a movie, but it’s well worth going out of your way just to see and take pictures of the building’s unusual features.

What to do there : This is a functioning movie theatre so if you’re in Amsterdam for a while it’s worth seeing what movies they’re showing. And if you’re not a movie buff, you should still visit and take in the architecture. The architect combined lots of different styles when he made this building, and it’s truly an amazing mix to see and take pictures in front of.

#20 – OT301

• For anyone who’s interested in alternative cultural events.
• A truly unique venue.
• A chance to see some alternative bands and listen to some weird and wonderful music.

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are that you’ve never seen anything like the alternative music scene in Amsterdam. This is a city that prides itself on being different from everyone else, and that’s definitely reflected in the music at this venue. Run by volunteers, this is the best place to hear some of Amsterdam’s up-and-coming musical talent. And the location is actually a legal squat, which makes it all the more interesting and unusual.

What to do there : If you visit the OT301 at night then you will experience new bands, music, and up-and-coming talent. But even if you go during the day then there’s plenty to do. During the day, the venue is host to artistic workshops and classes and the whole place is built on the ideas of diversity and inclusion. This combination makes the OT301 one of the friendliest and coolest places to spend time and soak up the atmosphere in. And if you’re really lucky, you might discover a new talent of your own too!

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#21 – Electric Ladyland – Quite the quirky place in Amsterdam!

• A quirky educational experience.
• Literally one of a kind.
• A fascinating and interactive glimpse of another world.

Why it’s so awesome : In a city full of quirky places, this is probably one of the strangest. It’s a tiny museum in Jordaan and is dedicated to fluorescent art. Well, it’s actually dedicated to a mix of art, science, and geology. This might sound a little strange, but the displays explore minerals, art and stones that glow under ultraviolet light in a way that’s both beautiful and fascinating. It’s so fascinating that you won’t even notice that you’re learning at the same time!

What to do there : You need to book ahead to get into this museum but it’s worth taking the time. Not only are the displays beautiful, but they’re also interactive. So while you’re there, make sure you take in all the lights and colours and also go the extra step and become a part of the artwork!

#22 – The Royal Palace

• Stunning architecture.
• Great for taking pictures.
• An interesting historical site.

Why it’s awesome : Everyone loves hearing about royalty and now you can see where they lived and died and everything in between! The Royal Palace in Amsterdam is the official residence of the King of Holland and was built in 1648 as a Town Hall. The rulers at the time had an unusual taste, so the architecture is modelled after the buildings in ancient Rome, which makes a fascinating statement in the modern city.

What to do there: The Royal Palace is incredibly beautiful and richly appointed, which is why it makes the perfect location for photographs. You can also tour the inside, as long as it isn’t occupied, so make sure you spend some time in the opulent staterooms. You’ll get a much better idea of just how wealthy royalty can be when you stroll around the impressive Royal Palace!

#23 – Westergasfabriek

• One of Amsterdam’s cultural centres.
• A great place to eat, watch a movie or shop!
• There’s something for everyone here.

Why it’s so awesome : This was once a slightly grimy industrial hub, but it’s been turned into the cultural center of the city. It has quirky stores and businesses, comfortable cafes and there are always events and festivals going on. So if you’re ever looking for something to do while you’re in Amsterdam, this is the place to come. Because there’s always something going on here.

What to do there : This area is so crowded with things to do that it’s easier to say what you can’t do. There are great restaurants and bars, cafes, an arthouse cinema, a microbrewery and coffee roasters. And as if that wasn’t enough, the area also plays host to events, markets and festivals on a regular basis. So, whatever you want to do, you can probably find a way to do it here.

#24 – De Pijp Neighborhood

• A window into everyday life in Amsterdam.
• A great place to shop, eat, or just relax.
• The interesting mix of cultures in the area makes for some great food.

Why it’s so awesome : This neighbourhood is a melting pot of different cultures and foods and is one of the most vibrant areas in the city. It’s also known as the Latin Quarter of Amsterdam and there are lots of pubs, cafes and restaurants in the area for you to try. It’s a great way to get a better idea of the different cultures that live in Amsterdam and how they seem to coexist in relative harmony.

What to do there : While you’re in the area, visit the shops and look for souvenirs or gifts for people back home. Make sure you visit one of the very traditional pubs in the area or have a meal in one of the many, very good restaurants. There is also a park nearby where you can have a break from the busyness and enjoy some nature before you go back to your explorations.

#25 – The Resistance Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Amsterdam

• An often-forgotten part of world history.
• Educational and interesting at the same time.
• Has special displays for younger visitors, so bring the kids along too!

Why it’s awesome: Most people outside of Holland don’t know about the role of the Dutch Resistance in the Second World War and this is a shame. The heroic men and women who fought against the Nazi’s regime deserve to be remembered and recognized, and this museum records their efforts with sensitivity and honesty. In 1945, there were more than 300,000 people hiding in the Netherlands, most of them Jews and anti-Nazi Dutch people. In this museum, you’ll see how they were hidden, how the Resistance protected them, and examine photographs, movie clips and documents from the time.

What to do there : There’s always something eerie about learning about the atrocities committed during the Second World War, but it’s life-affirming to learn about the people who fought against the horrors. If you want to feel sad but hopeful for humanity all at once, spend some time looking at the photos, documents and movie clips in this museum. It’s a good way to add to what you learn and feel at the House of Anne Frank.

#26 – Leidseplein – A great place to visit in Amsterdam at night

• Amsterdam’s nightlife center.
• The most popular square in the city.
• There are lots of great cafes and restaurants in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : This square is the centre of everything and a trip to Amsterdam wouldn’t be the same if you don’t explore this area. It’s great during the day or at night and is the perfect starting point for your adventures in the city. There are also a lot of great bars, restaurants and cafes in the area, so you’ll find somewhere to go that suits every taste.

What to do there : This square is a great place to start out a fun night with some friends. The most popular bars and restaurants in the city area are close by, and you can fan out from the centre until you find out what you’re looking for. It’s also a great place to visit during the day if you enjoy cosy cafes and delicious food.

#27 – Nieuwe Spiegelstraat – One of the most underrated places to see in Amsterdam!

• A glimpse of Amsterdam’s past.
• Great for people who want unusual souvenirs.
• Antique shoppers will love this area!

Why it’s so awesome : Souvenir shopping is fun, but sometimes you want to bring home something a little different and this is the perfect place to find that. This street is lined with antique shops, each of them showcasing a different, obscure part of the city’s history. Be prepared for weirdness when you shop here, and to see things you’ve never even heard of!

What to do there: If you like quirky, unusual things, then this street is a treasure trove. The shop dedicated to past medical instruments and oddities is particularly interesting as is the one that sells scientific instruments from the past. While you’re in this street, the best thing to do is just wander. Explore the different shops and what they have to offer. And be prepared to go home with an amazing story and souvenir or two!

#28 – Museum Vrolik

• One of the most bizarre collections you’ll ever see.
• A truly unique museum of past oddities.
• Definitely not for the squeamish!

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is located at the University of Amsterdam and it’s dedicated to human and animal anatomical mutations. Once held in a private collection, there are now more than 150 examples of mutations ranging from dental mutations to bone pathologies in both animals and humans held here.

What to do there : This is definitely not a collection for the kids or for anyone with a weak stomach. And if you don’t enjoy seeing strange things floating in jars, then you might want to give this a miss. But if your interests sometimes run to the macabre, then exploring this museum is a great way to spend a couple of hours. You’ll definitely leave the museum feeling grateful for how well your own body is put together!

#29 – De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat)

• For cat lovers!
• A chance to contribute to a worthwhile charity and pat some kitties at the same time!

Why it’s so awesome : This floating cat home is probably the only one of its kind. The cats who live here seem perfectly happy surrounded by water, and your visit could make their lives a little easier too. This unusual boat was set up as an animal sanctuary in 1966 and is a charity run entirely on donations. There are up to 50 cats on the boat at any one time and human visitors are welcome.

What to do there: This is a chance to combine animal cuddles with doing some good. Visitors are welcome to come aboard the boat for some cuddle time and to adopt. If you’re travelling, adopting probably isn’t practical, but the shelter welcomes donations, which all go towards feeding and taking care of the boat’s residents and the rest of Amsterdam’s cat population.

#30 – A’Dam Lookout and Over the Edge Swing

• Panoramic views over Amsterdam.
• A great place to take photographs.
• Something for adrenalin junkies too!

Why it’s so awesome : This tower is a landmark in Amsterdam and boasts an observation deck where you can sit and look out across the city. The views are absolutely stunning, especially on clear days, but if this isn’t enough excitement for you then consider trying the Over the Edge Swing. This is the highest swing in Europe and there’s nothing like swinging back and forward nearly 100 meters above the ground! It’s one of the most unique tourist attractions in Amsterdam.

What to do there : For most people, it’s enough to simply visit the observation deck and take in the views of the city And the historic buildings below. This is a great chance to take some photographs of the varied and atmospheric city below. If you’re looking for something more exciting, then pay a little extra and take a turn on the swing. It’s definitely worth the small extra fee and will really get your blood pumping!

#31 – Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica (the Ritman Library)

• If you enjoy Dan Brown, then make sure you visit one of the places that inspired him!
• For book lovers and especially rare book lovers.
• An interesting glimpse into different ways of thinking and living.

Why it’s so awesome : This library holds a large collection of rare books on ancient religions, mysticism and philosophy. You can find a lot of gems here from the first illustrated version of Dante’s The Divine Comedy to Cicero’s De Officiis . The collection is so varied and unusual that it inspired Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and overall is a fascinating window into ancient and more recent schools of thought.

What to do there : This is a display for book lovers and people who are interested in learning more about the past. If you’re a reader or a student of the past, you’ll probably find some old favourites here. And who knows, maybe you’ll get inspired just as Dan Brown was!

#32 – The Homomonument

Why it’s so awesome : During the Second World War, gay men in Nazi concentration camps were forced to wear a pink triangle on their clothes. This type of marking meant only horrific things in the camps and this monument acknowledges that and remembers the men and women who lost their lives to bigotry throughout the ages. The monument was designed in 1980 after gay activists were arrested in 1970 for putting a lavender wreath on Amsterdam’s National War Memorial in Dam Square.

What to do there : This is a place to reflect and remember the horrors of World War II. To remember all the people, men and women, who lost their lives because of their sexual orientation, and to remember to do better in the future. There are three triangles in the monument. One points to Dam Square, the other to the headquarters of the oldest gay rights organisation in the world, the COC Nederland, and the third pointing to Anne Frank’s house. It’s a moving place, and people often bring flower wreaths to place on the triangle by the water in remembrance.

• A sobering but important monument to diversity.
• A reminder of how far humanity has come and how far we have to go.

#33 – Dam Square

• The centre of life in Amsterdam.
• Surrounded by amazing architecture, restaurants and cafés and the National Monument
• A great place for photos and to start out when you arrive in the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Dam Square is the centre of the city and one of the most important and well-known areas as well. It’s also the historical centre and is surrounded by examples of incredible architecture as well as important monuments to Amsterdam’s history. You can get everywhere from this spot, and it’s a great place to start out on your journey around the city. It’s home to some incredible historic buildings and many well-known tourist attractions.

What to do there : While you’re in Dam Square, you’re within walking distance of a lot of important buildings and monuments. At one end is the Royal Palace, and the other is the National Monument, which memorialises the lives lost during the Second World War. This combination of monuments and attractions has made Dam Square the centre of tourist activity in the city. It’s that mixture of cultures, from walking in the footsteps of the Dutch royal family to retelling the stories of World War II, visiting Amsterdam has so much to offer.

#34 – Science Center NEMO – Awesome place to visit in Amsterdam with kids!

• The fifth most popular museum in Amsterdam.
• Five floors of exhibits.
• Interactive, interesting displays.
• For the young and the young at heart!

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like learning about science in an interactive and interesting way and this museum gives you the chance to do just that. It’s the perfect place to bring the kids if you want them to enjoy themselves and learn at the same time. And adults will enjoy it as well.

What to do there : There are five floors of exhibits in this museum so there’s no shortage of things to see and do. You can explore the universe, perform a chemistry experiment, or learn about mathematics in a way that will make you wonder why you ever hated it in school. Basically, no matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something fun to do in this hidden gem in Amsterdam !

#35 – Our Lord in the Attic Museum

• Some awesome historical displays.
• An unusual, quirky and slightly creepy place to explore.
• Give this place a miss if you have trouble with stairs!

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re interested in the unusual, then this is the place for you. Located in the Red Light District, this four-hundred-year-old house near the canal holds a secret. The upper floors hide a richly appointed and decorated Catholic Church! The church was created in 1663, at a time when Catholics were persecuted in Holland. The then owner of the house built the church so he and his fellow Catholics could worship in peace and secrecy.

What to do there : The real draw of this tiny church is its mystery. You pass through a completely normal, albeit old house, up numerous stairs, and suddenly find yourself face to face with an altar. There is room enough for around 150 worshippers in this tiny church and the Dutch Classicist style decorations are incredibly beautiful. The tiny church is now a museum, but they still hold services there regularly. And why wouldn’t they when it’s such a beautiful place?

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Amsterdam

What should I not miss in Amsterdam?

A visit to the Anne Frank Museum is a poignant and important landmark of Amsterdam that shouldn’t be missed.

Is Amsterdam safe for solo female Travellers?

You bet it is! Amsterdam is a great choice for girls wanting to go it alone, it’s super safe and has some awesome and friendly hostels too!

What are the best places to visit in Amsterdam at night?

Have an awesome and safe night out around Leidseplein. Explore the areas many amazing bars and restaurants with something for everyone.

What are some great places to visit in Amsterdam for free?

Take in the colourful action at the Bloemenmarkt. This floating flower market is a beautiful way to see local life.

Don’t let stories and news reports scare you away from Amsterdam. This city is one of the safest and the most exciting in the world, and it definitely has to be seen to be believed. We’ve now gone through a list of some of the most interesting and historically important places in Amsterdam. By exploring this list, you’ll get a good understanding of the city’s culture, its history, and what makes it so special and you’ll have a fantastic time as well!

Once you’ve done exploring the city itself then why not check out the amazing day trips in Amsterdam too and be sure to stay close to Amsterdam Central Station for the best use of your time.

Mathilde Magnier

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Amsterdam vs Berlin: which free-spirited European city should you visit first?

Jun 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Two Lonely Planet writers argue the case for why you should come to their favorite city © iStock

Planning a European city break but struggling to choose between Amsterdam and Berlin ? 

Both of these capital cities have so much to offer – historically significant sites, streets and museums full of cutting-edge art and classic masterpieces, and nightlife that can keep you dancing well into the following day – but each with their own unique spin. 

Here, two Lonely Planet writers put forward their case for why their favorite city should be your top choice too.

Choose compact Amsterdam, a truly global village

Over two decades writing for Lonely Planet, Catherine Le Nevez has authored numerous guides to the Netherlands and Pocket Amsterdam , and while she’s also covered Germany many times, it’s Amsterdam that completely steals her heart.

For me, Amsterdam is the better option for a vacation and here’s the biggest reason why: at a quarter of Berlin’s size, in Amsterdam it’s distilled into a concentrated space. Cozy, intimate and full of charm, with its narrow streets, canals and candlelit bruin café (a traditional Dutch pub) – and <1 million population made up of  180 nationalities – it feels like a global village.  

Yet this is also one of the world’s great cities. Amsterdam is infused with history (in 2025, it celebrates 750 years since this “dam built across the Amstel” was granted toll-free status, springboarding it to become a seafaring superpower) and awash with legacies like its 17th-century canal ring (a UNESCO World Heritage site , as are Amsterdam’s surrounding forts, dikes and polders that form the ingenious  Dutch Water Defence Lines ). Though the city remained largely intact after WWII, poignant reminders include the profoundly moving  Anne Frank Huis .

Amsterdam still has echoes too of its place as Europe’s counterculture magisch centrum (“magical center”) in the late 1960s/early 1970s, when legendary nightlife venues like  Melkweg (a former dairy) and  Paradiso (a 19th-century church) were reborn, and its open-mindedness and free-spiritedness permeate through the city. Sure, Berlin’s clubbing is amazing, but Amsterdam – the first city in the world to appoint a dedicated “night mayor” – has an epic EDM scene, with 24-hour venues like  Radion and a phenomenal festival line-up that includes the zeitgeist-defining  Amsterdam Open Air and  ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) , not to mention the world’s first electronic music museum,  Our House . (There’s no shortage of other music venues, including the glorious concert hall the  Concertgebouw , snazzy  Muziekgebouw , and  Dutch National Opera & Ballet .)

Then there’s Amsterdam’s incredible trove of art, from  Rembrandt’s former home and studio and his masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum at Museumplein , alongside the  Van Gogh Museum . Not only historic, art is in overdrive in this hypercreative environment. In Amsterdam Noord – the city’s most eclectic and electrifying post-industrial neighborhood – works are created in situ in repurposed shipyards at gargantuan street-art museum,  STRAAT and broedplaats (“breeding ground”)  NDSM Loods – and even whole new artforms like data sculptures at the mind-blowing intersection of tech and art at  Nxt .

Noord is just five minutes from the center by free passenger and bicycle ferry. And that’s where Amsterdam’s compactness really comes into its own. Nothing is far here, everything is walkable and/or cyclable (there are over 500km/310 miles of bike lanes), and public transport is superb . In the time it takes you to figure out where you’re going in Berlin, in Amsterdam, you’re already there.

Admittedly, a flipside to Amsterdam’s small size and immense charm is that overtourism has had a definite impact here, but authorities are finding innovative ways to manage it, and mindful visitors – in the spirit of a true global village – are absolutely welcome. You can easily skip the crowds by visiting at less-busy times and by visiting under-the-radar neighborhoods , and have meaningful experiences, such as cruising the waterways aboard a former refugee boat helmed by refugee guides, with  Rederij Lampedusa . Next to its dock is  Mediamatic , bringing together art, nature, biology and plant-based food grown in its own on-site greenhouses. It captures the essence of where Amsterdam is today, and where it’s going: sustainability initiatives are powering up all over Amsterdam as it aims to become a  fully circular economy by 2050 .

Like Amsterdam,  the whole country (which would fit nine times over into Germany) is compact and crisscrossed by bicycle paths, offering day trips that in Berlin would be considered a commute. By train you can zip from Amsterdam Centraal Station to fantastic Dutch cities like Haarlem (15 minutes), Rotterdam (39 minutes) and countless others, with powdery beaches, dunes, forests, tulip fields and so much more within day-tripping distance too.

If you’re able to visit both Amsterdam and Berlin, you can even fall asleep in either city  aboard the European Sleeper night train and wake up in the other. But if you have to choose just one? Make it Amsterdam.

Berlin is where rich history meets cutting-edge cool

Author of all editions of Lonely Planet Berlin and Pocket Berlin , Andrea Schulte-Peevers decamped from Los Angeles to Berlin 15 years ago and has never looked back. She considers the city her personal fountain of youth.

The first time I set foot in Berlin, I was just a kid and the Wall still stood tall. Returning in the post-Wall 1990s, I witnessed a city busy shaping its new identity. Since then, I’ve watched it grow into a dazzling – sometimes dysfunctional but always vibrant – metropolis that remains a cauldron of experimentation and a magnet for start-ups.

Once Berlin hooks you, you’re hooked for life. Unlike canal-laced Amsterdam, which is compact and cozy, the German capital is so expansive that it rarely feels overcrowded. Once you’ve ticked off the iconic spots like the Brandenburg Gate , East Side Gallery , Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie , dive into the idiosyncratic neighborhoods – or Kieze as locals call them. Sip cold beers by the canal in alt-flavored Kreuzberg , launch into a Neukölln all-nighter, hunt for indie threads around Hackescher Markt or channel royalty in Charlottenburg’s Prussian palace .

Sorry Amsterdam, but when it comes to culture, Berlin definitely has the edge. Sure, you’ve got Van Gogh and the Rijksmuseum, but we’ve got more museums than rainy days! You could easily spend an afternoon getting lost on Museum Island alone, exploring treasures from Bronze Age relics to contemporary marvels – no wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The arc of artistic expression is on display in dozens of galleries, from Old Masters in the Gemäldegalerie to the Boros Collection ’s edgy artworks inside a WWII bunker.

And art is not confined to museums in Berlin. The city’s punk spirit and Peter Pan personality have practically turned it into an urban canvas, from stickers on lampposts to epic murals by street art legends like Shephard Fairey and Blu. And then there are those unique, game-changing experiences. Where else can you fly a kite or cycle around a former airport resurrected as a vast outdoor playground ? Or admire sublime street art and breathtaking city views in a Cold War spy station atop a hill built from wartime debris? Only in Berlin! 

Nightlife? Amsterdam’s got game, but Berlin has mastered the art of the lost weekend. With no curfew to interrupt the fun, you can literally go clubbing from Friday till Monday. Can’t crack the code to get into myth-shrouded Berghain ? No worries, Berlin is packed with spots where you can let loose and have a blast , plus pop-up events in parks, on bridges and even at Spätis (late-night convenience stores) .

Winter in Berlin can be brutal, but darkness and gloom are quickly forgotten when – instead of Amsterdam’s tulips – our cherry trees start showing off their pink-blossom glory, signaling the happy arrival of beer garden season. Summer can bring infernal heat waves, but there’s no cooler cure than spreading your towel and dipping into a silky lake like the woodsy Schlachtensee or century-old Strandbad Wannsee. In town, global hipsters gravitate towards the Badeschiff, a river cargo barge turned swimming pool moored in the Spree River.

Finally, let’s whet your appetite for Berlin’s culinary temptations. Gone are the days when the German capital was a white patch on the foodie map. Now Michelin stars sprinkle down, and two of our restaurants are among the world’s top 50. Equally exciting are the unsung street food heroes that reflect flavors from the 190 nations calling Berlin home. From arepas to zongzi  (sticky rice dumplings), you’ll find it in Berlin. And don’t leave town without trying our famous Currywurst . This Berlin native from 1949 is a joyride for your palate: the sausage snaps like your patience in rush hour, the tangy sauce dances on your tongue, and the fries tag along for the fun.

No matter if you’ve come for the history, the nightlife or the street food, Berlin will surely have you yearning for more.

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What To Do In Amsterdam: Best Amsterdam Attractions

U p there with Paris and Rome , Amsterdam holds the title as one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world. It has the best of cities and towns, which makes people continue to visit. There are international restaurants, lively nightlife, rich culture, and great transportation like a big city. But it’s also quiet due to the light traffic and the canals. And you can do fun day trips, like a trip to Giethorn , a picturesque village with canals and windmills. The extensive Amsterdam attractions make it absolutely irresistible.

The city itself is like a sanctuary for all types of people. You’ll see tolerance and diversity all around it. This is a place where you can make friends wherever you go. Also take a look at our Amsterdam itinerary .

The Amsterdam Card – Save Money on the Best Places to Visit in Amsterdam

Like all major cities, Amsterdam has a city card to make seeing all these awesome things easier. Their city card includes free entry to 44 of the top Amsterdam attractions. Free entry includes Haarlem, the Naarden museum, and Zaanse Schans, so some of the top place to visit in Amsterdam.

On top of the free entry, holders of the Amsterdam card get various discounts in shops and restaurants as well as entry into monthly giveaways as well as unlimited public transport.

The card is available for up to 120 hours depending on which card you get. Holders get discounts at attractions, restaurants, concerts, shows, and so much more. It will save you hundreds of dollars on multi-day and single-day Amsterdam visits. I recommend it for anybody planning their trip.

Get Your Amsterdam Card Here

Top Things to Do in Amsterdam

The one downfall of Amsterdam is that there is just so many things to do and they’re all tempting. How do you decide what to in Amsterdam on your trip? Lucky for you, we have gathered a few seasoned travelers to help you out. To tell you exactly what Amsterdam attractions are a must on your vacation. So let’s get started.

Active/Outdoor Amsterdam Activities

Royal botanic gardens.

by Wandermust Family

One of my favourite things to do in Amsterdam is to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens – De Hortus Botanicus. In the upmarket area of the Plantage, the Hortus Botanicus is a great way to wile away a couple of hours. The botanic gardens are a great thing to do no matter what time of year you visit because of the amazing glasshouses that provide year round greenery. However my favourite time to visit the Amsterdam Botanic Gardens is in the spring.

Spring is my favourite time to visit Amsterdam full stop because it is the best time to see the famous Amsterdam tulips. If you want to see tulips in Amsterdam without having to do a day trip outside of the city then the best place to see them is in the botanic gardens. Hortus Botanica. While they aren’t the rolling fields of Keukenhof the displays here give you a good overview of the types of tulips grown in the Amsterdam area.

Other highlights of the Hortus Botanicus Gardens include the Snippendaal garden – a herbal medicine garden, an example of one of the worlds rarest trees – the Wollemi pine, and a huge glasshouse with plants from the landscape of South Africa. One of my favourite things to do in the glass house is to do the canopy walk which gives you a completely different perspective on the plants. Kids will also love exploring the butterfly glasshouse.

Once you finish perusing the gardens, be sure to stop for lunch at the botanical gardens cafe.

Visit the Street Market Like a Local

by Sam Sees World

If you want to see a more authentic and local side of Amsterdam, then heading to a street market is the thing to do for you! There are actually quite a few street markets in Amsterdam, all with their own unique findings and characteristics, but there is one that is better than them all. And this is Westerstraat Market.

This market is located in the beautiful Jordan area of Amsterdam and is full of exciting goodies. Some of the things you can find are fresh flowers, fresh meat, fish, cheese, clothing, jewelry, and much more. The flowers are beautiful to look at and are such a quintessential Dutch symbol, especially tulips in Amsterdam.

And since the flowers have a good price, it is a fun idea to buy a bouquet and take some fantastic photos along one of the canals nearby! More so, if you are staying in accommodation that allows you to cook, you can buy some goodies for dinner to prepare a market made meal.

Evidently, this market is a great place to pick up some goodies either to bring home for yourself or for others. You can find unique homemade jewelry, paintings, and more! Plus, it is the best place to try a homemade, fresh Stroopwafel.

What makes Westerstraat Street market very different from the others is that it is only open Mondays from 9 AM – 1 PM. This makes it very exclusive, and because of the hours and day it is open, it is much less busy than the others! This is great because there is nothing worse than strolling a street market with a ton of other people mulling around you. At Westerstraat, you can be a part of a street market few tourists know about and walk the market in peace.

Be sure to make a stop here during your visit to Amsterdam, you will not be disappointed.

Vondelpark: For The Outdoorsy Travelers

by Around The World in 24 Hours

Many people in Amsterdam are passionate about nature and getting outdoors. They love to hop on their bikes and explore the beautiful countryside outside of the city. But you don’t need to leave Amsterdam to get in touch with nature. Just head to the gorgeous Vondelpark!

It’s within walking distance from major tourist attractions like the Van Gogh Museum. But when you’re in Vondelpark, you can forget about all the tourists and just enjoy the colorful flowers and peaceful fountains. You’ll never get stuck in the kinds of crowds that line the canals.

Vondelpark is huge, about 120 acres (47 hectares). You won’t be able to see all of it in one day. If you want lots of entertainment options, it’s best to visit in the summer. The flowers will be in full bloom, so the park will be at its most splendid. The roses of Vondelpark are the most famous blooms, and you can find them in almost every color of the rainbow from yellow to purple.

In the summer during the evening, there will be free performances in the open-air theater, concerts, and big screen movies. And if you are traveling with kids, there is more than one children’s playground. The children’s playground at the restaurant Groot Melkhuis even has a jumpy castle on weekends.

Even if you don’t visit in the summer, there’s interesting public art year-round. The most famous sculpture is The Fish by Pablo Picasso. You can’t miss it because it looks exactly like a giant Cubist fish. But one word of caution: keep an eye out for the public urinals. They’re fairly out in the open, so if you’re not careful, you can see more of the locals than you would probably like.

Bike Exploration

by Travel Drafts

The best way to explore Amsterdam is on a bike, after all, Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the World (2d after Copenhagen). Even if you aren’t an experienced rider, don’t worry, Amsterdam is a lowland city without hills. It has extensive cycle tracks, signals and traffic lights designated solely for cyclists.

The Dutch love bicycles, as you will notice when you arrive at the central station, there are thousands of bicycles all over. It is part of their culture, and they go by bicycle everywhere, to work, or taking their kids to school, even when it is raining or snowing. So, the most practical and cheapest way of touring Amsterdam is doing it “the Dutch way” – by bicycle.

It is fairly easy to rent a bike in Amsterdam, there are several shops and it costs about 10 € per day, depending on the type of bike you want. Be aware that there are two types of bicycle, bikes with foot brakes (the cheapest to rent) and bicycles with hand brakes. We advise you to rent the one you feel more comfortable using.

Although it is fun to cruise Amsterdam by bike, you have to pay attention to some cycling rules and safety. The Dutch are experienced riders and sometimes impatient and will overtake you, so ride on the right lane. Always ride on the bike paths and obey the signs and traffic lights even if the others don’t if you want to turn left or right use hand signs. Be careful with the Trams, Tram tracks, and the pedestrians, there are plenty of tourists in Amsterdam. And never forget to lock your bike, about 100,000 bicycles are stolen in Amsterdam each year. There are also guided bike tours if you want to give it a try.

Go On A Countryside Bike Tour Here

Cruising The Netherlands

by Sometimes Home

We took our first river cruise through The Netherlands during spring. It was a beautiful time of year for a vacation there. We enjoyed eye-opening stops at various sites that helped form our love of the country. Tulips were in bloom, the weather was favorable and the skies were blue. One visit on our itinerary that was a stand out was the Zaans Schans windmills.

The area is a flashback to the 19th century when classic windmills, that have grown to be icons of The Netherlands, were abundant and in operation. Technology has made the classic windmills obsolete it’s not easy to see them throughout the countryside unless you seek them out. Luckily there’s a wonderful concentration of them at Zaans Schans. 

The area is just outside of Amsterdam about thirty to forty minutes away. It depends on where you are traveling from within the city. It’s incredibly easy to arrive via train, bus or car. (There is a fee to park in the lot next to the museum.) It’s a short walk to the windmill area by foot from the train station, perhaps about fifteen minutes. (And it’s a lovely walk at that through a very pretty neighborhood!) You should arrive very early in the morning before majority of tourists arrive by the busload. You can also arrive later in the afternoon after they have left.

There’s no fee to walk around the windmill area. If you want to visit the adjacent Zaans Schans museums, it’s simply €15 per adult to enhance your experience. (Note there is also a combination bus and museum ticket for €22.) It’s also possible to pay a small fee to enter one of the windmills still working today on site. We cannot recommend it enough – the waterfront view and photo opportunity make it a very pleasant. An absolutely necessary stop when you visit Amsterdam!

Check Out A Great Canal Cruise Here

Take a Free Walking Tour

by One Savvy Wanderer

Let’s be real, traveling is expensive so it’s important to find things to do to keep costs low. One way to do this is by participating in free walking tours when visiting new cities. These free tours give visitors a high-level overview of the city. It shows off many of the highlights that there are to see.

Like many European cities, Amsterdam has a couple different tour companies that offer free walking tours. This includes Sandeman’s, Strawberry Tours and even a local company, Free Walking Tours Amsterdam. All of the tours include an overview of Amsterdam’s history. Each tour stops at popular attractions like Dam Square, the Red Light District and the Anne Frank House. The tour guides also give tips on other places visitors should check out. Take a look at other Amsterdam attractions, restaurants, bars and even coffee shops!

Between the various tour companies, there are free tours daily, at various times, and in multiple languages. Tourists can find the perfect tour that fits their needs and schedule. The tours are approximately two to three hours long. It will require a leisurely walk of about two to three miles total. Many of the tours even offer a break in the middle to grab a coffee, beer or snack.

At the end of the free walking tour, be sure to tip the guide. While the tours are free, don’t forget to tip your guide!

The Beautiful Keukenhof Gardens

by Trimm Travels

What do you think of when you first think of Amsterdam? For me, it was tulips and windmills! Finally, on my second trip to Amsterdam, I got the chance to visit a big bucket list item for me, the Keukenhof Gardens .

This world-famous attraction is home to over 7 million bulbs of 800 varieties of tulips. They bloom over 79 acres each year. Impressive, right? To realize there are that many varieties of tulips. Then visualize them is unlike anything I have ever seen before and certainly unlike anything I can adequately describe.

Unlike many attractions, there is no offseason or high season. Keukenhof has one season each year that runs for about eight weeks mid-March through mid-May. With that in mind, I recommend not visiting when it first opens or the last few days before closing. It is possible to miss the tulips in their prime.

Mid-April is typically a great time, but do keep in mind the weather varies each year. Weekdays are always better than weekends unless that weekday is a local holiday. Heads up if you’re visiting on a Monday in March or May, make sure it isn’t the Monday after Easter. I can tell you from firsthand experience that it will be a madhouse!

Also, be advised that like most parks, the food is expensive, though. But unlike most parks, you can pack your own food and have a picnic. There is free wifi throughout, luggage storage, skip-the-line tickets. You can even rent bikes and ride alongside beautiful tulip fields!

Historical and Cultural Amsterdam Attractions

History and culture of the church of our lady in the attic.

by Just Go Places

The Church of Our Lady in the Attic is a throwback to an interesting period in Amsterdam’s history. Although Amsterdam was strong-armed into turning Protestant in the late 16th century, the city did not want to lose its ideas of religious tolerance.

Religions other than the official state religion (Protestant Calvinism) were permitted if people practiced them in private. This tacit allowance led to people building churches in their homes away from prying eyes. Amsterdam still has many Catholics in the city as well as other religions such as Jewish, Huguenots and Lutherans.

One of the wealthy German merchants who lived in the city built this Church of Our Lady in the Attic across the top of 3 of his homes near the city center (very near Central Station). The attic was basically carved out as a shell and a church put in its place. The beams supporting the buildings were replaced by steel rods at the top. It has separate spaces for an organ, a little chapel, a sacristy etc. – all the things you would see in a regular free-standing church. With the height of the interior of the attic, you even got the sense of soaring ceilings.

The owner’s family lived out of one of the buildings downstairs. Rooms were rented out to another family as well as the priest of the church. For all intents and purposes, the buildings looked to the outside world as if they were just the usual Amsterdam tall narrow homes.

This church is now a museum because it is the best preserved of the clandestine churches in Amsterdam from historic times to survive into modern times. It is definitely one of the more unusual sites in the city (and has free entry included in the Amsterdam Pass).

Begijnhof: Charming and Complex

by Learning Escapes

One of my favourite places to visit in Amsterdam is the city’s small yet charming begijnhof.

Right in the city centre, the begijnhof is a historical complex of traditional Dutch houses overlooking an internal courtyard, with peculiar origins.

It dates back to medieval times and takes its name from its first inhabitants, the ‘beguines’, unmarried catholic women who took a vote of chastity and lived together here, attending mass and religious services in the yard chapel.

The place is a pleasure to visit.  At first glance it looks like just a pretty garden however, its real charm is in the details.

The first thing that catches the visitors’ attention is the yard itself: this is small and enclosed, very well kept and it is dotted with religious statues that give away the origins of the place.

Around the central lawn, you have houses built in traditional Dutch fashion, with straight facades and elaborate roofs. Among the many, number 34 stands out: this is one of the oldest houses in the whole of the city and one of the only 2 remaining made of wood!

Begijnhof Visiting Tips

You can visit the Begijnhof all year round and entrance is free. Info panels with information about its origins are available in Dutch and English inside the courtyard and allow you to learn about the   place in your own time.

When visiting, just be aware that people still live in the houses and some areas of the yard are off limits to visitors, something to consider when exploring but also when taking photos.

Since it is right in the heart of the canal ring, you can easily add it to your Amsterdam itinerary and it makes an excellent stop especially in spring. At this time, small daisies dot the green patches of the begijnhof and, on a good day, the blue sky makes the perfect backdrop to Amsterdam’s fairy tale architecture.

Book Your Historical Amsterdam Tour Here

Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum

by Travel Passionate

The Rijksmuseum is in the heart of Amsterdam’s Museum Square. It is one of the most picturesque and impressive galleries in the world with famous artwork from the likes of Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Van Gogh. The whole museum houses over 8000 pieces in their collection. So it is a real gem for art lovers and those who want a slice of culture during their trip to Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum is open daily from 9am-5pm. Since it is such a popular attraction it’s worth getting their early (or late) to avoid the crowds. It’s best to buy your tickets online in advance so that you can skip the line at the ticket counter and get straight in there to explore the collection. Online ticket purchases also allow you to book your tour in advance, ensuring you don’t miss out, as well as having the chance to head directly to Operation Night Watch, the live research and restoration project of Rembrandt’s renowned painting ‘The Night Watch’.

Why Go To Rijksmuseum

Regardless of whether you are an art buff or not, you’re sure to enjoy the Rijksmuseum and will want to spend hours wandering the halls of this stunning gallery. The multimedia guides offer accessible information about the artwork. This allows you to understanding it in greater depth without being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of art displayed here. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time, as even if you just come for one special exhibition, you’re sure to want additional time to explore the other works on show.

The great thing about the Rijksmuseum is that you could visit time and time again without getting bored of feeling like you have ‘seen it all’. The museum features ever-changing exhibitions as well as having favourites displayed in prime positions throughout the gallery. 

If you’re short on time but still want to visit the Rijksmuseum, head to the Gallery of Honour which features breath-taking paintings by Frans Hals, Jan Steen, Vermeer and Rembrandt.

Reserve Your Skip The Line Rijksmuseum Tickets Here

Moco Museum on the Museumsplein

by Borders and Bucket Lists

Situated on the famous Museumplein, the Moco Museum in Amsterdam exhibits modern, contemporary. Not to mention the street art from some of the most amazing artists across the world.

When the Moco Museum opened in April of 2016, it immediately made its mark by presenting an exhibition of the famous, yet mysterious street artist, Banksy. (I was able to visit just a few months later while I was studying abroad in Switzerland!) Banksy’s most famous works, including Girl with a Balloon and Keep It Real, are still proudly hung in the museum.

The museum’s ongoing displays include pieces by contemporary artistic masters, including Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. There are also revolving exhibits showcasing the works of world-renowned artists, such as American pop artist Roy Lichtenstein and Japanese polka dot-lover Yayoi Kusama.

The one downside of the Moco Museum is the fact that it is quite small. That means that, during peak hours, the museum gets extremely packed! In order to avoid a situation where other people are a bit too close for comfort, head to the Moco Museum right when it opens at 9AM. Then, by the time you head out, you’ll have successfully avoided the crowds!

If art museums are at the top of your list of things to do in Amsterdam, be sure to explore the rest of Museumplein. Within this small area, there is also the famous Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum just steps away from the Moco Museum. Oh, and you certainly can’t forget to take a picture with the famous “I Amsterdam” sign located in that very same square!

The Van Gogh Museum

by Maps ‘N Bags

One of my favorite things to do in Amsterdam is visiting the Van Gogh Museum, a fantastic art institution that deserves a place in your Dutch itinerary.

The Van Gogh Museum is strategically located on a beautiful square surrounded by the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, and Moco museums. Which also are excellent places to visit.

During springtime, they fill the artificial lake on this square with tulip vases from the Keukenhof. It’s a photo -worthy spot!

While the other museums in the area are excellent, the Van Gogh Museum is unique. It’s unique because it showcases significant artworks of the most famous Dutch artist.

The highlights of his collection are the Sunflowers and the Almond Blossom paintings. The latter is my favorite one. But Almond Blossom also was a gift Van Gogh made for Theo and Jo, his brother and sister-in-law, respectively, who had just had a baby son, Vincent Willem.

Fun fact: His nephew, Vincent Willem, founded this museum.

However, so much value comes with a price – tickets can be expensive (€19).

The good thing is that if you are visiting more museums in the Netherlands, you might consider purchasing the Museum Card for 60 euros. It gives you access to over 400 Dutch institutions, including the Anne Frank House.

As for the best time to visit, early in the morning. Be there when the museum is opening its doors. Seriously. Van Gogh Museum usually has huge lines.

Otherwise, be sure to purchase the skip-the-line ticket online. It will save you lots of precious time while exploring Amsterdam.

Book Your Van Gogh Visit Here

The Royal Palace

by The Nomadic Vegan

This is one of four royal palaces in the Netherlands and is very conveniently located right in the heart of the city on Dam Square, next to Nieuwe Kerk and just opposite the War Memorial. It was originally built as a town hall in the 17th century, during the period known as the Dutch Golden Age. It’s the largest and most prestigious work of architecture from this period.

The building was converted to a palace by Louis Napoleon, the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, when he acquired the title of King Louis I of Holland in 1806. Nowadays, it is used by the royal family mainly for entertaining important visitors, such as heads of State. Since 2009, the palace has been open to the public and can now be visited on most days, except when an official function is being held.

Opening hours are from 10 am to 5 pm, and the entrance fee is 10 euros for adults and 9 for students, while anyone under the age of 18 can enter free of charge. A free audio guide is available in various languages, and there’s even a special audio guide for children available in Dutch and English. It’s also possible to book a guided tour for an additional fee.

Inside, visitors will find an impressive display of King Louis’ Empire furniture, as well as intricately detailed sculptures and luxuriously decorated rooms. One of the palace’s most famous features is the world map etched into the marble floor in the central hall. Created in the mid-18th century, the map shows the sphere of Dutch colonial influence at that time.

Expect to spend about an hour touring the inside of the palace. There’s no café inside, but nearby SunLight Lounge does delicious burgers, sandwiches and milkshakes, with plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan travelers.

Book Your Skip-The-Line Royal Palace Tickets Here

Explore NDSM Neighborhood

by Chloe’s Travelogue

Amsterdam is a charming city that offers many fun things to do year-round. It is also undeniably crowded with a slew of tourists. If you want to get out of the Centrum and chill out with locals, NDSM is a great neighborhood you can explore.

Amsterdam NDSM is only a five-minute ferry ride away from the Centraal Station. The ferry runs frequently and is free of charge. During the short trip, you can enjoy the best view of Amsterdam skyline on the IJ river.

Once you set your foot onto the NDSM wharf, you will immediately notice a change of scenes. The neighborhood exudes the industrial vibes and features colorful outdoor arts and graffitis. The most eye-catching and famous one is “Let me be myself”. It’s a large wall art of Anne Frank Portrait by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra.

NDSM is also an outdoor cultural hub, where many performances and cultural events take place. There’s even a monthly flea market at IJ-Hallen. If you want to spend a lazy afternoon with the fantastic view, there are a few unique cafes in the area, including the pancake boat.

Before you hop on a ferry back to the Centrum, don’t forget to check out the quirky Crane Hotel. It will be hard to miss, though, as it is one of many things at NDSM that catch your eyes!

Family Friendly Amsterdam Sightseeing

Awesome museum visits.

by Points and Travel

With so many wonderful museums in Amsterdam, the one NOT TO MISS is the NEMO Science Center, especially if you have your kiddos in tow. With everything from hand-on science exhibitions (five floors of them) to a science lab, a ball factory, a movie and performance hall, a gift shop, and even a cafeteria.

You can spend all day here having fun and enjoying the things that they have to offer, including lunch. Of all the museums in Amsterdam, it is the eighth most visited! Plus, you can’t miss the building it is in, which is a replica of a giant ship and designed by a famous Italian architect. It stands out along the water and you will notice it right away!

My favorite floor is the first floor which is about DNA and chain reactions. Here they have a show that lasts for about a half hour that features a large chain reaction circuit. This is great for kids and adults alike to learn more about how DNA works. They also have giant dominoes with enormous contraptions like flying cars, giant bells, and other interesting things to see.

I also enjoyed going to the science lab on the third floor where you can actually do experiments related to DNA and also the fourth floor, which is about the human mind. There really isn’t anything more complex than that! Here you can all kinds of memory tests about different mind theories and how the mind works. Be sure and also visit the eerie fourth floor for a surprise!

NEMO Museum of Science

by Travels in Poland

The NEMO museum in Amsterdam is among the best science museums in Europe as its clear dedication to educating children and hands on activities makes it an amazing place to visit with children.  The 5 story science center has hundreds of hands on science exhibitions and experiment and take a close look at certain topics to teach kids in depth about the different ideas presented.

One of the most fun parts of the museum is the area where children can play with bubbles.  There are huge bubble wand stations set up in one area and children can climb onto the inside metal ring and “lift” a bubble wand around them, creating a bubble around themselves.  Near the bubble station, are also pulley stations where children can sit in a chair and see if they can pull themselves up using only their upper body strength.  This is a favorite for older children in particular as many will race each other to see who will get to the top first.

There is a chain reaction set up on the first floor where visitors can see the cause and effect of a large set up that includes balls, pops and electricity.  On the upper floors there is a sectioned off laborat ory where adults and children can put on white lab coats and do a variety of experiments inside with the help of nearby “scientists.”  Another fascinating exhibit is the ball factory where the logistics process is in full display, and visitors can take turns helping to sort the balls in an automated process.

The museum is open year-round, though it is closed about 20 days out of the year for holidays.  The least busy times are right at opening or in the late afternoon.  It is better to visit the museum when the weather is pleasant outside as less people will be drawn indoors.  There is also a spectacular café on the top floor with an open outdoor area where you can get a full view of the city.

Purchase NEMO Museum Tickets Here

The Amsterdam Cheese Museum

by Glam Granola Travel

Amsterdam has no shortage of world-class museums. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or something a bit more off the beaten path, there’s something for everyone. The Amsterdam Cheese Museum definitely falls into that last category, and is one of the coolest untraditional museums I’ve come across anywhere. I’ve been to many museums in Amsterdam alone, and will never return without stopping by the Cheese Museum. It’s educational, fun, delicious, and affordable.

The Cheese Museum is incredibly underrated; it belongs on every Amsterdam itinerary, if you ask me. There are hundreds of free samples of multicolored cheeses (I tried at least 20), cute cow statues, and interactive museum dioramas. It is a two-story building, filled with mouthwatering displays of every kind of cheese you can imagine from Holland and beyond. While you can certainly buy your favorites, the sampling room and museum are completely free.

The Amsterdam Cheese Museum is conveniently located directly across the canal from the Anne Frank House, so there’s a good chance you’ll be in the area at some point on your Amsterdam trip. It’s appropriate and enjoyable for people of all ages, whether you’re a solo traveler, cheese-loving couple, or family with kids. The museum displays themselves are interactive, full of props and photos teaching visitors about cheese-making in Holland. 

Every type you sample, from the smoked gouda to the spicy brie, is for sale. I can think of no better place to explore rich flavors and pick up cheesy keepsakes. Not to mention some fascinating Dutch dairy history!

The Iconic Damrak

by Christine Abroad

Damrak is one of the most iconic places in Amsterdam. It’s perhaps one of the most photographed canals in the city, if not the whole country. It’s truly a beautiful spot with iconic houses in the traditional Dutch style. No matter the time of the day you visit, it’s a bliss to admire the houses in Damrak. The architecture truly is stunning!

At night, they will light up and display gorgeous reflections in the still water. During the day, you can truly see all the details of the houses. From here, you can also take many of the boats that go around the Amsterdam canals. It’s a popular place to hang out, especially among tourists, and it has a relaxing and romantic vibe to it.

It’s very easy to reach Damrak. Literally on the opposite side of the road from the Centraal station. It takes just 2-3 minutes to reach the canal and avenue. There you can get a closer look at the famous houses.

Damrak is also an avenue that runs between the Amsterdam Centraal and Dam square. It’s served by various tram routes such as the lines 4, 9, 16, and 25. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam. There’s a good reason why it’s a popular tourist attraction. Not only photographers come here, but other tourists also come to admire the old houses. They could also just have a little picnic. You can even dine at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the beautiful Damrak canal.

Amsterdam Food, Fun & Nightlife

The old and famous reguliersdwarsstraat.

by London City Calling

Reguliersdwarsstraat is one of Amsterdam’s oldest and now most famous gay streets. Located behind the bloemenmarkt (flower market), this street is just as colorful and exciting as the beautiful displays you have to pass to reach it. As well as being home to some of the trendiest gay bars and clubs in Amsterdam, Reguliersdwarsstraat also has plenty for those who might not necessarily be into the gay clubbing scene.

Tour The Best Coffee Shops of Amsterdam Here

The Duke of Tokyo: Bonus!

One of my favorite things to do on Reguliersdwarsstraat is to spend an evening at The Duke of Tokyo… THE Amsterdam karaoke bar! From the outside, you wouldn’t expect this fairly toned-down (compared to the rest of the street) looking bar to be hiding away a traditional Japanese karaoke house. However, once you step inside, the Japanese themed bar and club in the front lead back into a makeshift street in Tokyo boasting eight private karaoke booths that are available for private hire.

The private karaoke booths are available for groups of 4, 6, 8, 10, 15 and 25, so are great for small groups all the way up to bigger parties. And if you’re heading to the Duke of Tokyo for date night, you can still book the smaller rooms for just 2 people. The rooms are booked in 2-hour slots and cost between €12-€18pp depending on the size of the room and group. The selection of songs is great and you’re even given an iPad on which you can order drinks to be delivered directly to your private booth – which means no wasting your time slot queuing at the bar.

The Duke of Tokyo is particularly popular with the locals and therefore can get pretty busy, particularly during the weekends. The best way to ensure a booth is to book online in advance or turn up early and hope there’s availability on the day.

Sip and Munch On A Coffee Shop and Snack Tour Here

Amsterdam’s Chocolate Company Cafe

The Chocolate Company may not have the most original name, but it’s one of the best foodie experiences in Amsterdam and certainly delivers what it promises. Specialising in all things chocolate, the central Amsterdam Chocolate Company Cafe sells an unbelievable array of chocolate products – so make sure you leave room for dessert when you’re eating in Amsterdam!

If you’re looking for a gift to take home, there are plenty of delicious treats that will easily fit in your cabin bag. Or, if you can’t resist the tempting scents of – it’s strong! – you can sit and enjoy a chocolate or two in their cosy seating area.

If something can be made with chocolate, you can bet that the Chocolate Company Cafe makes it. The product that they’re most famous for, though, is their unique “hotchocspoon”. It’s a hot chocolate like no other and comes in hundreds of classic and quirky flavours. They include red velvet, milk cookie coconut and dark chai latte. Simply heat up some milk (they have non-dairy options and vegan options available) and dip the chocolate coated wooden spoon in for a creamy, delicious chocolatey experience. The hotchocspoon is where the Chocolate Company started and has largely fueled their recent growth to more than 20 locations.

For something totally different, the Chocolate Company Cafe also offers “High Choc” experience. It’s a bit like high tea, but better – because it’s all chocolate! During this experience, you’ll get to sample several of the Chocolate Company’s finest treats, including brownies and gourmet chocolates, and was it all down with an iconic hotchocspoon.

Go On A Chocolate Tasting Tour Of Amsterdam Here

Take a Cruise Around the Canals

by Trailing Away

Amsterdam is beautiful during the day, but there is just something special about exploring this amazing city at night, especially from the water. The entire vibe of the city changes at night, as does the city itself with the lighted canals. So, what better way to explore the city at night then to hop on an evening canal cruise?

We took our cruise with Blue Boat Amsterdam Canal Cruises. This 90-minute evening cruise included one alcoholic drink, as well as an audio guide that comes in 21 languages. At a cost of only €19 each, we couldn’t ask for much more. The cruise takes you all over the city, including a trip through the infamous Red Light District. Being able to take in the views from the boat while avoiding the crowds, made it that much more relaxing.

Be sure to bring a jacket with you no matter what time of year you go, as it is likely that it will be cooler out at night. While the interior of the boat is heated, nothing beats the fresh air you get while sitting on the open deck taking it all in. We were there in September, and it was quite chilly in the evenings, especially while on a moving boat through windy canals. Depending on when your cruise is, we would suggest grabbing dinner at the Foodhallen either before or after. There are a ton of options at this multi-restaurant venue, so there is sure to be something for everyone in your group.

Book A 4-Course Meal Cruise Here

Rijsttafel: Dutch-Indonesian Food

by The Round The World Guys

One of the most popular cuisines in Amsterdam is Indonesian food. You’ll find plenty of places selling tasty Indonesian fare, ranging from budget to high-end restaurant experiences.

The most unique Dutch-Indonesian experience is called Rijsttafel, which literally means “rice table.” Rijsttafel is an elaborate dinner with smaller, tapas-style dishes, often with no fewer than twenty rice, meat, and vegetable plates prepared in multiple ways.

Rijsttafel’s origins came from the West Sumatran style dinner called Nasi Padang during the Dutch Colonial era in Indonesia. To put on a show for European visitors to Indonesia, the Dutch developed Rijsttafel to highlight their colony’s exotic abundance.

Rijsttafel is a unique culinary style that you can only have in the Netherlands and you’ll find many of the best Rijsttafel experiences in the capital city.

Try Some Tasty Sweets

by International Desserts Blog

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Amsterdam is will satisfy! Here are three sweet treats you can sample as you explore this walkable city. First up is appeltaart. More like a cake than a pie, this Dutch favorite is flavored with a traditional spice mix called Speculaaskruiden.

Where to find appeltaart? All over the city! That said, Winkle 43 (Noordermarkt 43) is a popular choice and was recommended to me by a local. Be sure to add a cup of hot, fresh mint tea and a dollop of whipped cream to your order; they’re the perfect complement to the sweet appeltart.

Pannenkoeken

The second Amsterdam must-try? Dutch pannenkoeken (pancakes). You’ll find options for both sweet and savory pancakes (gluten free, too), as well as a wide range of toppings at the Pancake Bakery (Prinsengracht 191 near the Anne Frank House) and Pancakes Amsterdam (Berenstraat 38). I tried both sweet (lemon, raspberry and crème fraiche) and savory (cheese and mushroom) pancakes and loved them both. Dutch stroop sy rup is another popular topping choice.   

Speaking of stroop…another Amsterdam favorite is the famous stroopwafel. You can pick up a package of them at any store in Amsterdam, but I recommend heading to the Original stroopwafel stall at the the Albert Cuyp street market for a hot, freshly made, big-as-your-head stroopwafel. Warning: you won’t be able to eat just one!

Classic Freshly Baked Cookie

My last recommend ation is to pick up a package of freshly baked chocolate from a tiny place called Van Stapele (located in an alley off of Spuistraat). When I stopped by, there was a line out the door. But the short wait was more than worth it. Van Stapele specializes in baking a Valrhona chocolate cookie with a gooey white chocolate center. What I love about their cookies is that they actually taste like chocolate, rather than just being sweet. Stop by in the morning or call ahead to make sure they still have cookies or to reserve a batch. If you order several cookies, they’ll package them into a cute little box. What a sweet way to remember Amsterdam!

The Heineken Experience

by Together to Wherever

When we set out to visit Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience was at the top of our bucket list of things to do. We suggest you put it on yours, too! After all, you would not want to miss learning a little bit about how they make the “World’s Most Famous Beer”. You get to taste some of it at the source!

The Heineken Brewery is located right in the center of the city, in the De Pijp neighborhood. You can get to it easily from wherever you may be staying in Amsterdam. Once inside the building, you can start your self guided tour which you should allow about an hour and a half to complete. The tour is in English and guides you through the brewery where you will learn a lot about the brewing process. You even get a chance to interact a bit to get a better feel for it.

To make it more of an “experience” they have set up a few different rooms where you can play games and try out some fun activities as well as have some fun photo opportunities to show off to your friends.

We had some fun designing our personalized bottle label at one of their interactive stations. It is on a bottle of Heineken for us to purchase from the gift shop.

Not only do you get to learn a lot at the Heineken brewery, you get to be a little goofy with your friends and have some fun at the end before enjoying a couple of glasses of this popular brew. Oh! And did I mention how tasty the beer is in Amsterdam?! I have never really been a huge fan of Heineken beer myself, but having it at the brewery was so delicious!

They even teach you the proper way to pour the drink, so you can go back home and impress your friends!

We visited in July, which would be considered the “high season,” but didn’t really feel that it was a hectic time to visit the Heineken Experience. We would suggest purchasing your tickets ahead of time. You should plan it in advance if you are limited in you time and availability just so you don’t miss your chance. The best option for purchasing your ticket would be to get it along with another attraction, like a canal cruise. You will get a better deal that way and enjoy 2 bucket list items in one shot!

Book Your Heineken Experience Here

The Red Light District

by Wanderlustingk

It’s hard to write about Amsterdam without mentioning the Red Light District.    This small quarter of Amsterdam is renown for its infamous windows, however it’s also the center of nightlife in Amsterdam for tourists. Historically, this was an area for prostitution. The Netherlands has chosen to regulate prostitution. It’s in the interest of ensuring that those working in the industries are treated fairly. 

In recent years, the Red Light District has become at the heart of the controversy about Amsterdam.  This area is hated by locals and if you visit, please be consider of those who live here.  The noise and the rowdy crowds are why Amsterdam is considering banning tourists from freely entering this area.   If you visit the Red Light District, be warned that you are NOT allowed to take photos as this endangers the women in the windows whose identities are often separate from their work.

Beyond the windows, you’ll find some beautiful buildings in Amsterdam. There are even some historic liquor distilleries where you can sample jenever. Jenever is a liquor similar to gin that is made from jenever berries.  You can try this at Wynand Fockink Distillery, which is in the heart of the Red Light District!

You’ll also find a cute street filled with book stalls. It’s the perfect place to pick up a book to bring home with you! Lastly, you’ll find many beautiful old buildings along the canals. There are the former VOC (Dutch East Indies Company) building and the University of Amsterdam. It can be a charming place to explore if you find the right spots!

Tour The Red Light District Here

Get A Taste of Herring

by Swedish Nomad

Herring is a traditional dutch food, and can be eaten all over the country. In Amsterdam, you can find plenty of herring wagons around the town, especially in the central areas.

You can eat the herring in various ways. You can eat it raw, in a bread or accompanied with some onion and other toppings. It’s delicious and works great as a quick snack on the go.

It’s not for everyone though of course, since Herring has a very distinct flavor and texture. But even if you don’t like to eat fish in general, it’s fun to try the dutch herring in Amsterdam. For just a few euros, you can get herring on a plate with toppings.

My personal favorite is to eat it in a bread, and that’s a local classic as well. Some of the herring stalls have been standing here for decades, and have gone in heritage from generation to generation. Some popular herring stalls are Frens Haringhandel, Volendammer Haringhandel, Stubbe Haring, Haring & Zo, and Herring Stall Jonk. All of these serve high-quality herring to reasonable prices which is also very fresh and tasty.

They are usually open during the day, from noon to 18:00 on weekdays and weekends. Stubbe’s haring is one of my favorite places to eat the traditional street food in Amsterdam. It’s located close to the Centraal station on the Singel street. You can easily walk from the central station to Stubbe’s haring.

Hopefully, with the help of the wonderful travelers, we have helped make planning your Amsterdam trip much easier. It is such a beautiful city with so much substance to it. There is no reason why anybody could be bored there. Discover your substance in Amsterdam.

What To Do In Amsterdam: Top Amsterdam Attractions You NEED to Visit- Pin For Later

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Amsterdam once again ranks among the best cities in the world to live in

Are you surprised?

Amsterdam-dwellers, it’s time to brag to your friends back home. Amsterdam has ranked as the 19th best city to live in in 2024.

The report by the Economist Intelligence Unit measured cities’ urban quality of life based on stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.

However, don’t get too cocky. While the Dutch capital snagged 19th place among 173 competing cities, this is actually quite a downgrade.

Back in 2022, Amsterdam ranked 9th place — a full 10 places higher than this year. So, what changed?

Instability and a housing crisis should do it

According to the survey, much of western Europe’s stability has fallen in the past two years due to strikes and protests.

Infrastructure has also suffered quite a lot but was offset by improvements in healthcare and education.

The report doesn’t discuss Amsterdam in detail, but with the current housing shortage , recent protests , and huge renovations to Amsterdam Centraal , the city’s downgrade starts to make sense.

That being said, let’s look on the bright side, we’re still sitting pretty in the top 20. 😌💅

The rankings

The top 20 cities are dominated by western Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, with Tokyo being the only non-Western city to make the list.

And for the third year in a row, Vienna, Austria has taken the top spot!

Curious about the top 20 rankings? Take a look:

Did your city make the top 20? Tell us in the comments below!

Tokyo…..my god! Have you ever been in a flat (box)in Tokyo! I have! Believe me, unless you were a millionaire you wouldn’t want to live there!

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