Tours from Amsterdam Airport: Exploring the Netherlands
Introduction
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is not only a major transportation hub but also a gateway to exploring the beautiful country of the Netherlands. If you have a layover or a few hours to spare, taking a tour from the airport is an excellent way to make the most of your time and experience Dutch culture, history, and scenery. In this guide, we will explore some of the best tours you can take from Amsterdam Airport.
1. Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
One of the most popular tours to consider is a canal cruise in Amsterdam. The city is famous for its picturesque canals, and exploring them by boat is a must-do activity. Several tour companies offer guided cruises that take you along the city’s canals, providing fascinating insights into its history and landmarks. Choose a tour that suits your preferences, whether it’s a daytime or evening cruise, or a themed tour such as an architecture or food-focused cruise.
2. Keukenhof Gardens Tour
If you visit Amsterdam during spring (typically from late March to early May), you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Keukenhof Gardens. These gardens are world-famous for their stunning displays of blooming tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers. Many tour operators offer direct transfers from the airport to the Keukenhof Gardens, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of millions of flowers.
3. Windmill Tour in Zaanse Schans
For a quintessential Dutch experience, take a trip to the picturesque village of Zaanse Schans, located just a short distance from Amsterdam Airport. Here, you can step back in time and explore well-preserved traditional windmills, wooden houses, and charming streets. Join a guided tour to learn about the history of windmills and witness their functioning firsthand. Don’t forget to try some mouth-watering Dutch cheese and learn about the traditional craft of clog making.
4. Rotterdam City Tour
If you’re interested in modern architecture and urban landscapes, a tour of Rotterdam is a great choice. As one of Europe’s leading architectural cities, Rotterdam boasts impressive skyscrapers, innovative designs, and vibrant neighborhoods. Several tour companies offer day trips from Amsterdam Airport to Rotterdam, giving you the opportunity to explore the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the Cube Houses, and the Markthal, a futuristic food market.
5. Haarlem and Zandvoort Beach Tour
Escape the city and venture to the charming city of Haarlem and the nearby Zandvoort Beach. Haarlem offers a rich history with its well-preserved medieval architecture and famous museums like the Frans Hals Museum and the Teylers Museum. After exploring Haarlem, head to Zandvoort Beach for a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores or a refreshing dip in the North Sea. Tours from Amsterdam Airport to Haarlem and Zandvoort Beach are available, allowing you to enjoy both cultural and natural beauty.
Conclusion
When you have a layover or a short amount of time at Amsterdam Airport, don’t let it go to waste. Take advantage of the fantastic tours available to explore the Netherlands and make your visit truly memorable. Whether you prefer canal cruises, historic windmills, vibrant cities, or beautiful beaches, there’s a tour for everyone. Plan your itinerary wisely, consider the duration and timing of the tours, and make the most of your time in the Netherlands!
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