🌍 Day Trips from Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a fantastic base for exploring the rest of the Netherlands. Whether you want historic towns 🏰, scenic countryside 🌿, or cultural hotspots 🎨, there are plenty of destinations just a short train or car ride 🚆🚗 away.
This guide will help you plan the best day trips from Amsterdam in 2026.
🏘️ 1. Zaanse Schans – Traditional Dutch Village
Famous for its windmills and traditional crafts.
✨ Highlights:
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🌬️ Historic windmills
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🧀 Cheese farms & workshops
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👞 Wooden shoe demonstrations
📍 Distance: ~20 minutes by car/train
🌷 2. Keukenhof Gardens – Tulip Paradise
Seasonal tulip gardens that bloom in spring.
🌼 Why Visit:
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🌷 Over 7 million flowers
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📸 Perfect for photography
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🚶 Walk through themed gardens
📍 Distance: ~40 minutes by car/train
⚠️ Open March–May
🏰 3. Haarlem – Charming Cultural Town
Known for its historic architecture and museums.
🖼️ Must-See:
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🏛️ Frans Hals Museum
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☕ Cozy cafés & shopping streets
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⛪ Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church)
📍 Distance: ~20 minutes by train
🏞️ 4. Giethoorn – Venice of the North
A peaceful village with no roads, only canals.
🚤 Experience:
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🚣 Canal boat rides
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🏡 Thatched-roof houses
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🌿 Scenic walking paths
📍 Distance: ~1.5–2 hours by car
⚠️ Ideal for slow, scenic day trips
🏰 5. Utrecht – Historic City & Canals
A city with rich history and lively atmosphere.
🌟 Highlights:
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🏛️ Dom Tower
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🚤 Canals with terraces
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🎨 Museums & galleries
📍 Distance: ~30 minutes by train
🏖️ 6. Texel Island – Nature & Beaches
Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor activities.
🌊 Activities:
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🚴 Cycling across the island
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🐑 Sheep farms & wildlife
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🌾 Remote beaches
📍 Distance: ~1.5–2 hours by car + ferry
🚗 Travel Tips for Day Trips
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🚆 Public transport is convenient for nearby towns
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🚗 Car rental gives flexibility for villages & countryside
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🕒 Start early to maximize sightseeing
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🎟️ Book tickets online for popular attractions (e.g., Keukenhof)
🧭 Final Thoughts
Amsterdam is not just a city — it’s a gateway to some of the most beautiful and unique spots in the Netherlands.
From historic towns to tulip gardens and tranquil villages, these day trips make your Amsterdam stay unforgettable.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning traveler, planning a few day trips adds depth and adventure to your trip 🌷🏰🚤
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