Compact in size and offering superb transport links (especially by train), the Netherlands is a treat to explore – and much of the country is easily accessible as a day trip from Amsterdam.
Den Haag’s standout museums, Zandvoort’s sandy beaches, and Zaanse Schans’ working windmills are just a few of the wonderful attractions within an hour’s journey of the city. Here are some of the best day trips to consider from Amsterdam.
1. Take in the royal vibes of Den Haag (The Hague)
Travel time: 45 minutes
While Amsterdam is the Dutch capital, ’s-Gravenhage (the Count’s Hedge) – better known as Den Haag (The Hague) – is the seat of government and of the royal family. On the shimmering Hofvijver lake, the Binnenhof complex is the world’s oldest parliament building still in continuous use.
For more royalty-tinged thrills, head to the extraordinary Mauritshuis, where works by Dutch masters form the basis of the 800-strong Royal Picture Collection. You can also explore the former royal palace Lange Voorhout, now home to Escher in Het Paleis, showcasing the improbable creations of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Alternatively, spend a sunny afternoon simply enjoying the ambiance at one of the city’s canal-side cafes.
How to get to Den Haag from Amsterdam: Den Haag is located southwest of Amsterdam and takes around an hour to reach by car. Trains travel to Den Haag Centraal from Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: 45 minutes) and Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 38 minutes).
2. Get a culture fix in Leiden, birthplace of Rembrandt
Travel time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Laced by canals lined with gabled 17th-century buildings, the lively city of Leiden offers a rich cultural experience. The city is home to the Netherlands’ oldest university, established in 1575, and is notably the birthplace of the famous painter Rembrandt. The Museum De Lakenhal features many of his renowned works alongside pieces by other Dutch masters.
In addition, the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden houses a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, while Museum Volkenkunde is dedicated to ethnology, showcasing cultural treasures from around the globe that tell stories about humanity’s shared existence.
After indulging in culture at the museums, head to the beautiful Hortus Botanicus Leiden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, where you can admire colorful blooms from various parts of the globe.
How to get to Leiden from Amsterdam: Leiden is southwest of Amsterdam, taking around an hour to reach by car. Trains run from Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: 30 minutes) and Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 23 minutes) to Leiden Centraal station.
3. Take your kids to see the windmills at Zaanse Schans
Travel time: 15 to 25 minutes
Visitors of all ages will enjoy an afternoon at Zaanse Schans, particularly younger travelers who will love seeing the creaking sails of its six authentic windmills in action. This engaging attraction features a recreated 17th-century village composed of traditional buildings from across the Netherlands, including a clog factory and workshops of a cheesemaker and pewter smith.
The Zaans Museum delves into the history of the Netherlands’ earliest mills, enriching your visit. After exploring, you can take a short riverboat journey back to the station.
How to get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans is located north of Amsterdam, roughly 25 minutes away by car. Alternatively, catch the Sprinter train from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans (journey time: 12 minutes) and walk 1.5 km to Zaanse Schans.
4. Tour the contemporary architecture of Rotterdam
Travel time: 1 hour
Rotterdam is a stark contrast to the Netherlands’ historic cities, as it was heavily bombed during WWII. Postwar recovery led to the transformation of the city into a showcase of modern architecture. Anyone interested in unique designs should visit sites like the Overblaak Development, which features pencil-shaped towers and a “forest” of cube houses.
The mirrored exterior of the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen and the horseshoe-shaped Markthal, a vast food market with murals of fruit and vegetables, enhance the visual diversity of the city. These locations provide excellent opportunities for photography and architectural tours.
How to get to Rotterdam from Amsterdam: Rotterdam is south of Amsterdam, taking just over an hour to reach by car. Fast Intercity trains connect Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: one hour) and Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: one hour and 10 minutes) with Rotterdam’s Centraal Station.
5. Channel Holland’s Golden Age in Delft
Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Delft’s enchanting, canal-woven core has barely changed since the painter Johannes Vermeer thrived during the 17th-century Golden Age. While none of his original works are displayed in his hometown, reproductions can be viewed at Vermeer Centrum Delft. You can also visit his final resting place in the Oude Kerk church.
Famous for its blue-and-white painted porcelain, Delft invites you to tour a Delftware factory such as the renowned Royal Delft, where you can participate in painting workshops.
How to get to Delft from Amsterdam: Southwest of Amsterdam, Delft takes around an hour by car. Direct trains run from Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 45 minutes) and Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: one hour).
6. Combine city and beach with a trip to Haarlem and Zandvoort
Travel time: 20 to 35 minutes
Only 20 km from Amsterdam, Haarlem retains its medieval charm with cobbled streets and a lively market square. The Grote Kerk van St Bavo houses one of the world’s finest organs, historically played by a young Mozart. Experience concerts on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a memorable musical event.
Stretching between Haarlem and coastal sand dunes, Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is home to diverse wildlife. Beyond the park lies the busy seaside resort of Zandvoort, popular for sunbathing in summer. Exploring the park and coastline by bike can be a refreshing experience.
How to get to Haarlem from Amsterdam: Haarlem is west of Amsterdam, taking around 35 minutes by car. Alternatively, Sprinter trains from Amsterdam Centraal travel to Haarlem in about 20 minutes.
