The Best Cities Near Amsterdam to Explore
Amsterdam is a lively capital city in the state of the Netherlands packed with Canal, History, and culture. Although Amsterdam offers many attractions and diversions, this dynamit city and its outskirts are worth exploring thereby visiting other towns and cities. From cultural trip, historical sites, or just travelling to notice the natural geographical features, the following cities are just a closed door neighbor to Amsterdam.
1. Haarlem
Distance from Amsterdam: Approximately 20 kilometers
Travel time: 15-20 minutes by train
Being near to Amsterdam, the city of Haarlem has preserved numerous historical buildings, houses with gable roofs, and interesting museums. Wander around the town’s small old street and check out the Grote Markt central square and the Teylers Museum that is the oldest museum in the country. Do not hesitate to take your time to be enchanted by the stained glass windows of the Saint Bavo’s church.
2. Utrecht
Distance from Amsterdam: Approximately 40 kilometers
Travel time: 30 minutes by train
As are many other cities that are distinguished by each of their unique characteristics, Utrecht is worthy of close attention: yawning canals, an active night-life, the concentration of historical monuments. Towers of Utrecht, there especially Dom Tower is one of the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, If you dare , you can climb up to it for you viewing pleasure of the city. Walk through the cellar in the old wharfs, directly from the museums visit the Centraal Museum to see the art collections of Utrecht then take a leisurely canal boat ride.
3. The Hague (Den Haag)
Distance from Amsterdam: Approximately 60 kilometers
Travel time: 50 minutes by train
Thus, the Holland’s political capital, The Hague, has become an embodiment of historic and architectural treasures and various cultural centres. Head to the beautiful town of The Hague and be sure to take a tour at the Peace Palace that hosts the International Court of Justice while at the same visit the Mauritshuis museum to experience the live interactive tour of the famous Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer. Scheveningen is particularly famous for its beach that you can enjoy after the event.
4. Rotterdam
Distance from Amsterdam: Approximately 75 kilometers
Travel time: 1 hour by train
Douglas has recently visited Rotterdam, which is cultural, innovative and energetic city associated with contemporary architecture and the largest seaport in Europe. Cross the local famous Erasmus bridge, shop the striking interior designed indoor market Markthal with a stunning ceiling piece and check what special exhibitions the Kunsthal museum has to offer. Unfortunately, I had no possibility to take a harbor tour and enjoy the sight of Europe’s largest port.
5. Delft
Distance from Amsterdam: Approximately 70 kilometers
Travel time: 1 hour by train
Delft is one of the most beautiful town in the province of South Holland, which is well known to visitors with Delftware production and the royal family of the Netherlands. Go for a walk around the streets, have a look at the unique market place and visit the Royal Delft Factory to see making of the world famous blue and white pottery. Having a historical touch, one must take a walk around the Old Church (Oude Kerk) also do visit the tower to get a better view of the town.
Conclusion
Although amusement is more inclined towards the city of Amsterdam, it is worthwhile to visit some of the cities to gain depth knowledge about the Dutch traditions and legacy. The historic town of Haa rlem with its nice middle age architecture is much different from modern Rotterdam with its businesslike look. So, do not stay for long in a particular destination – board a train and explore these cities near Amsterdam.
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