The Ultimate Guide to Trips Near Amsterdam
This article introduces the complete checklist for visiting destinations close to Amsterdam. The following article presents exploration possibilities extending beyond Amsterdam city center. A travel through nearby regions is ahead which reveals undiscovered attractions while giving advice to maximize your vacation.
1. Zaanse Schans
Every visitor curious about traditional Dutch windmills should place Zaanse Schans on their travel itinerary. Travelers can reach this outdoor museum through a short 20-minute trip from Amsterdam to view the history of the Netherlands. Take a stroll past the wooden buildings while observing active windmills and explore the complete process of cheese production and traditional clog-making.
How to get there:
Zaanse Schans lies within a brief walking distance from Koog-Zaandijk station so reach the area by riding a train from Amsterdam Central Station.
2. Keukenhof
People visiting Amsterdam during spring should add Keukenhof to their itinerary to see its awe-inspiring flower displays. Keukenhof exists as the “Garden of Europe” while maintaining the title of the world’s largest flower garden. The expansive garden contains a wide range of flowers such as daffodils and tulips and hyacinths that attract many photographers and nature enthusiasts.
How to get there:
A direct bus service from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport will get you to Keukenhof along with a connection of train and bus starting from Amsterdam Central Station.
3. Haarlem
Haarlem provides visitors with a peaceful break from Amsterdam because it lies only a brief train journey beyond Amsterdam’s borders. Observe the historic downtown district that showcases its wonderful canals along with beautiful buildings while enjoying its active marketplace. The city center boasts spectacular views from Grote Kerk which stands as a magnificent church.
How to get there:
Frequent train rides connect Amsterdam Central Station to Haarlem while the commute lasts approximately 15 minutes.
4. Utrecht
Utrecht functions as a compact Amsterdam alternative because it retains all the charm and historical heritage found in its large neighbor city. Visitors can reach amazing views from the Dom Tower and explore the highlight-filled Museum Quarter in addition to wandering through the alluring streets. The city of Utrecht presents its visitors with well-designed canals as well as lively cafés and numerous shopping venues.
How to get there:
Public trains depart from Amsterdam Central Station to Utrecht throughout the day while the journey requires about 30 minutes.
5. The Hague
Due to its status as the Netherlands’ political hub The Hague establishes itself as an internationally important urban center. Tourists should visit Binnenhof to witness Dutch Parliament operations while experiencing works of art at Mauritshuis including Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” The Hague provides visitors with beautiful seaside beaches and tourists can enjoy the magnificent Scheveningen Pier.
How to get there:
Regular trains connect Amsterdam Central Station to The Hague where the total journey duration amounts to 50 minutes.
6. Rotterdam
The contemporary metropolis of Rotterdam presents itself through modern buildings and its active cultural arts community. When visiting Amsterdam try seeing Euromast for its spectacular views while enjoying the unique food selection at Markthal marketplace and boat for riding across the gigantic port. The famous Cube Houses and the Erasmus Bridge should not be missed by those who are interested in architecture.
How to get there:
Regular train routes depart from Amsterdam Central Station to Rotterdam while the total travel duration amounts to one hour.
7. Kinderdijk
Any visit to experience authentic Dutch rural scenery must include a journey to Kinderdijk. The 19 windmills at this UNESCO World Heritage site were constructed to regulate water levels in this site. The water management history of the Dutch landscape can be explored by following the paths and waterways of the area on foot or bicycle.
How to get there:
The route to visit Kinderdijk starts with traveling by bus from Rotterdam or with a train-bus combination starting from Amsterdam.
8. Texel
Texel presents itself as the perfect choice for natural sojourners who want to escape to the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands. The island of Texel presents an ideal destination for travelers who want to hike, cycle and observe birds as it contains welcoming beaches while offering dunes and peaceful nature reserves. The island of Texel allows visitors to experience its famous lamb products and fresh seafood.
How to get there:
The trip spans from Amsterdam Central Station to Den Helder followed by ferry service to Texel.
9. Giethoorn
The Dutch village of Giethoorn present itself as the “Venice of the Netherlands” because it lacks streets while being evenly distributed with many canals and rustic thatched-roof dwelling buildings. The idyllic destination can be best experienced by taking a boat ride which enables exploration through its narrow water paths as you lose yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of rural Dutch living.
How to get there:
Board a train at Amsterdam Central Station bound for Steenwijk while the next stop should be Giethoorn by taking a bus.
10. Leiden
Leiden stands as the hometown of Rembrandt and maintains its status as a historically rich city which boasts cultural richness. Stroll through the stone pavement streets and enjoy exploring Leiden University followed by museum visits to see the exhibits at Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and Museum Volkenkunde. Tourists visiting Giethoorn need to set time aside for a walk by the tranquil canal paths.
How to get there:
The trains departing from Amsterdam Central Station regularly operate to Leiden while the commuting time amounts to 30 minutes.
This lead will provide you access to multiple fascinating places surrounding Amsterdam. The various day trips from Amsterdam guarantee all visitors will find something that enhances their visit to this city regardless of their personal interests. Finally take your camera and luggage to enjoy the ultimate adventure.
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