If you’re visiting Amsterdam but wish to explore beyond the city’s borders, there are several destinations outside the city perfect for a day out.
Consider these perfect day trips from Amsterdam while planning your excursions.
Day Trips From Amsterdam Less Than An Hour Away
Amersfoort
A mere 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam is the city of Amersfoort.
Amersfoort, founded more than 800 years ago, is a modern city centered around its beautiful historic center. It’s often overlooked as a day trip destination, and I can’t understand why.
From its charming medieval architecture to its rich history and culture, Amersfoort is very much worth the day trip from Amsterdam.
There are several museums and historic sites to see. Visit the Mondriaan House, a museum dedicated to Dutch painter Piet Mondriaan. Or admire the medieval gate of Amersfoort, Koppelpoort, built in 1425.
To get the best view of the city, climb the 98-meter-high Onze Lieve Vrouwe Toren, often also called Lange Jan. After the climb, enjoy a boat ride around the canals or grab a bite at the many cafes and restaurants on the Stadsplein de Hof.
The welcoming atmosphere, the historic buildings, and the wide range of activities make Amersfoort the perfect destination for anyone seeking to explore the Netherlands beyond tourist hotspots like Amsterdam.
How to Get to Amersfoort
The best way to get to Amersfoort from Amsterdam is by train. The train ride takes about 40 minutes, and a day return ticket costs 20 euros.
Haarlem
Haarlem, a hidden gem in the Netherlands, is just a short train trip from Amsterdam. The historic center of Haarlem is a patchwork of narrow cobblestone streets, gabled houses, and picturesque canals.
Haarlem has a medieval village-like charm. It exudes tranquillity and sophistication, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from busy Amsterdam.
As you explore the streets of Haarlem, you’ll come across beautiful architecture. Visit St. Bavo’s Church, where you can admire the magnificent organ played by both Handel and Mozart. Or enjoy the city’s many hofjes (courtyards with almshouses around it).
There are several museums, excellent boutique stores for shopping, and charming cafes to make your day trip enjoyable.
The Haarlem train station alone is worth visiting. Opened in 1839, the beautiful station building is now a rijksmonument, a national heritage site of the Netherlands.
How to Get to Haarlem From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Haarlem from Amsterdam is by train. The train ride takes only about 15 minutes, and a return ticket costs around 10 euros.
Utrecht
Just a quick 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Utrecht. This place is famous for its medieval center, charming canals shaded by trees, and bustling town squares. Right at the city’s heart stands the Domtoren, a centuries-old towering structure.
The Domtoren (Dom Tower) is a 14th-century bell tower located on Domplein. If you’re up for an adventure, you can climb to the top, and the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
As you stroll along the Old Canal, Oudegracht, you’ll discover cozy cafes and restaurants right by the water. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal or a snack.
Utrecht also offers many museums to explore. The Museum Catharijneconvent delves into the history of religion. At the Museum Speelklok, you can explore the world of music machines. If you’re a fan of the Miffy Bunny, there’s even a dedicated Miffy Museum.
Utrecht may be a compact city, but it’s incredibly friendly and easy to navigate. It’s an ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam, where you can soak in the historical vibes, climb the Dom Tower, and explore the beautiful the canals.
How to Get to Utrecht From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Utrecht from Amsterdam is by train. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and a day return ticket costs around 18 euros.
Naarden
Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Naarden is a hidden historical gem famous for its well-preserved star-shaped fortress town.
This unique layout, known as a “star fort” or “fortress with a double ring,” was designed in the 17th century for military defense and is surrounded by moats and fortified walls.
As you enter the town through its gates, you’ll come across a world of perfectly preserved historic architecture and cobblestone streets. The town’s central square, or Markt, is framed by beautiful buildings and offers a charming backdrop for exploring local shops and cafes.
Naarden is also home to the Netherlands Fortress Museum, where you can learn about the town’s military history and view artifacts from various eras.
Naarden is an ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam for history enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone interested in Dutch history.
How to Get To Naarden From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Naarden from Amsterdam is by car or public transport. The train ride from Amsterdam to Naarden-Bussum takes about 30 minutes. From there, take the bus 110 to Naarden Fortress. A day return ticket should cost about 12 euros.
Zaanse Schans
Located just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is a picturesque village that provides a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich history.
The town is most famous for its historic windmills. These windmills offer a window into the country’s past, demonstrating their significance in the sawmilling and oil-producing industries.
Here, you can walk along cobblestone paths and admire the traditional wooden houses. Visit the artisan shops where you can witness craftsmen creating traditional Dutch products like wooden clogs.
Visiting Zaanse Schans provides a traditional Dutch experience that transports you back in time. However, it can get really busy here, especially on weekends during the high season.
How to Get to Zaanse Schans
The best way to get to Zaanse Schans is by bus in circa 40 minutes. Take the bus 391 from Amsterdam Centraal. A day ticket costs €11.50 (entrance to Zaanse Schans is not included).
Muiden and Muiderslot Castle
Muiden is a charming town just a short drive from Amsterdam.
The town is best known for the Muiderslot Castle. This well-preserved medieval fortress takes visitors back to the Middle Ages.
Explore the impressive Muiderslot Castle with its striking towers, drawbridge, and beautiful gardens. Inside the castle, you’ll find well-furnished rooms, historical artifacts, and exhibits that provide insights into Dutch history and castle living.
Muiden offers its visitors charming canals, cozy cafes, a peaceful waterfront, and a taste of Dutch village life.
Visiting Muiden and Muiderslot Castle is a step into the past and a journey into the heart of Dutch heritage. A great way to spend the day outside Amsterdam!
How to Get To Muiden And Muiderslot Castle
The best way to get to Muiden or Muiderslot Castle from Amsterdam is by car. You can also bike there in about an hour if you feel active. There are also regular buses to both Muiden and Muiderslot Castle leaving from the Amstel Station.
Hoorn
Hoorn, a historic harbor town on the shores of Markermeer, has a deep maritime history dating back to the Dutch Golden Age. Its charming waterfront, lined with well-preserved buildings, invites you to walk along the quays and soak in the maritime atmosphere.
The town’s central square, Roode Steen, features the Westfries Museum and the Hoofdtoren, a tower that once served as a defense post.
Hoorn’s historic streets reveal many architectural treasures, including the Oosterkerk and the Statenlogement, a former state guesthouse.
The Hoorn-Medemblik steam tram offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque countryside, offering insight into the region’s history and transportation methods.
Hoorn’s maritime charm, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty make it a great day trip destination for history buffs and visitors seeking to explore the region’s seafaring legacy.
How to Get to Hoorn
The best way to get to Hoorn is by train. It takes about 30 minutes to get to Hoorn from Amsterdam Centraal. A day return ticket costs ca. 20 euros.
Keukenhof Gardens
A day trip to Keukenhof Gardens is a must if you’re visiting Amsterdam in the spring. This world-famous attraction, located just a short drive from Amsterdam, is often called the “Garden of Europe.”
Keukenhof is a botanical wonderland where you’ll experience an explosion of colors and fragrances as millions of tulips and other flowers bloom in beautiful patterns.
Wandering through the landscaped gardens feels almost like stepping into a fairy tale. Here, you can walk among vibrant flower beds, explore themed gardens, and simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Consider renting a bike to get the most out of your visit to Keukenhof. Biking in the tulip fields is an experience you’ll never forget!
Keukenhof is a testament to the Netherlands’ love affair with flowers and a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Please note, however, that Keukenhof is extremely popular among tourists. So be prepared for crowds.
How to Get To Keukenhof
The best way to get to Keukenhof is by bus. Buses are leaving regularly from Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam RAI to the gardens.
When will Keukenhof Be Open In 2024?
In 2024, Keukenhof will be open daily from 21 March – 12 May from 08:00 – 19:30.
Lisse
In addition to the famous Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse has more to offer.
The Keukenhof Castle (Kasteel Keukenhof), nestled within the gardens, is a historical treasure that gives you a glimpse of the region’s past. Its beautiful gardens and surrounding park provide a peaceful setting for walking.
Lisse is also home to the Flower Art Museum, which displays various contemporary and historical artworks inspired by flowers.
Lisse’s charm is enhanced by its proximity to flower fields, where colorful tulips and other spring flowers cover the countryside.
How to Get To Lisse From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Lisse is by bus. Buses leaving regularly from Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam RAI to the Keukenhof Gardens during the flower season (21 March – 12 May 2024).
Volendam, Edam, Monnickendam and Marken
The neighboring villages of Volendam and Marken, situated by the scenic IJsselmeer, provide a glimpse of Dutch life in fishing villages.
These villages are known for their traditional Dutch charm, which includes tiny wooden cottages, colorful fishing boats, and a rich maritime heritage.
Volendam’s attractions include a lively harbor, souvenir shops, and seafood restaurants serving freshly caught fish.
A short ferry ride away, Marken attracts visitors with its picturesque setting and charming cottages on stilts.
The town of Edam, just a short distance from Volendam, adds to the appeal of this area.
Edam, famous for its cheese, is a delightful addition to your day trip. You may walk through its medieval streets, visit the cheese market, and sample the famous Edam cheese.
The town of Monnickendam, founded in the 12th century by monks, attracts visitors with its historic charm and quiet cobbled streets.
You can easily combine visits to Volendam, Marken, Monnickendam, and Edam for a day of seaside charm, cultural experiences, and cheese tasting.
Insider TIP! Of all these four villages, Volendam is the busiest and the most unoriginal. While it may be a popular tourist attraction, there’s not much to experience. I highly recommend visiting Monnickendam, Marken, and Edam as these lovely towns are much more charming and original, and skipping the tourist trap Volendam.
How to Get to Volendam, Marken, Monnickendam and Edam
The best way to visit Volendam, Marken, Monnickendam, and Edam is by car or by booking a group trip. You can get there by public transport too. A bus ride from Amsterdam Centraal to Volendam-Edam takes about 40 minutes. You can take the ferry from Volendam to visit Marken.
Alkmaar
Alkmaar, located within an hour’s train ride from Amsterdam, is a charming city known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place during the summer months. This centuries-old tradition offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the ceremonial weighing and trading of cheese wheels while donned in traditional Dutch attire.
Beyond the cheese market, Alkmaar has a well-preserved historic center with picturesque canals, historic buildings, and inviting squares.
The Waag, a 16th-century weighing house, is an architectural highlight in the city center. It houses the Cheese Museum, where you can explore the history of cheese production in the Netherlands.
Alkmaar’s intimate and inviting atmosphere and cultural heritage make it a delightful destination for a day trip from Amsterdam for anyone who wishes to experience authentic Dutch traditions.
How to Get to Alkmaar
To get to Alkmaar, take the train from Amsterdam Centraal. The train ride takes less than an hour, and a day return ticket costs about 18 euros.
Gouda
Gouda, located approximately an hour by train from Amsterdam, is most known for its cheese and historic charm.
In addition to the delicious Gouda cheese, the city is also known for its yummy stroopwafels (syrup waffles), invented in Gouda in the late 18th century.
It’s also recognized for its historic center, which includes structures dating back to the 15th century, such as the Stadhuis (City Hall) and Sint Janskerk (St. John’s Church).
As you walk through the narrow streets of Gouda, you’ll encounter well-preserved architecture, scenic canals, and lively marketplaces.
Every Thursday during the summer, Gouda hosts a traditional cheese market where you can witness the age-old cheese trading rituals.
The relaxed atmosphere, cultural richness, and culinary treats make Gouda a perfect destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.
How to Get to Gouda
The best way to get to Gouda is by train. It takes approximately an hour to get from Amsterdam Centraal to Gouda, and the return ticket costs about 27 euros.
Leiden
Located about a 40-minute train ride from Amsterdam, Leiden is a city full of history and culture.
It’s home to one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, Leiden University. (One of Leiden University’s most famous alumni includes the Dutch painter Rembrandt himself!)
Picturesque canals, quaint streets, and elegant buildings characterize the city’s historic center.
While you’re there, make sure to visit the Pieterskerk (St. Peter’s Church), where you can learn about the Pilgrims who lived in Leiden before embarking on their journey to America on the Mayflower.
Leiden Observatory, one of the oldest observatories in the world, offers a fascinating glimpse into the study of astronomy.
Leiden’s intellectual legacy and timeless beauty make it an inspiring destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a taste of Dutch academia.
How to Get to Leiden
The city of Leiden is best visited by train. It takes about 40 minutes to get to Leiden Centraal from Amsterdam Centraal. A day return ticket costs about 22 euros.
The Hague
A day trip to Den Haag, The Hague, offers a day filled with history, culture, and natural beauty.
As the political and administrative heart of the Netherlands, The Hague is home to the Dutch government and numerous international organizations.
The city oozes sophistication and importance: impressive government buildings, including the iconic Peace Palace, dominate the city’s skyline.
You can explore many museums in the Hague, including the Mauritshuis, home to the world-famous artwork “Girl with a Pearl Earring”, painted by the Dutch Golden Age master Johannes Vermeer.
When you’re done with art and history, head to the nearby Scheveningen beach for sun, sea, and sand.
The Hague offers a blend of cultural richness and coastal charm, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.
How to Get to The Hague
The Hague is best visited by train. It takes about an hour to get to Den Haag Centraal from Amsterdam Centraal, with trains leaving every 10 minutes (on weekdays). A day return ticket from Amsterdam to The Hague costs around 27 euros.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a major port city in the province of South Holland and the second largest city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam.
The port of Rotterdam is the largest seaport in Europe, and the city is often called the “Gateway to Europe”.
About an hour’s train ride from Amsterdam, Rotterdam is a city of architecture, avant-garde design, and a lively arts and culture scene.
Architectural phenomenons such as the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) and the futuristic Markthal, a food market housed in a horseshoe-shaped structure, may be found here.
Rotterdam’s waterfront, with its iconic Erasmus Bridge, provides a picturesque background for a walk or bike ride.
The Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum houses an extensive collection of centuries-old art, and is one of the city’s cultural attractions.
Rotterdam’s vibrant energy and architectural brilliance make it an excellent destination for a day trip from Amsterdam, especially for visitors interested in modern Dutch culture and architecture.
How to Get to Rotterdam
The best way to get to Rotterdam from Amsterdam is by train. The train ride from Amsterdam Centraal takes about 40 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on the time of travel. A day return ticket costs around 36 to 42 euros.
Explore Nature Around Amsterdam
Beaches Near Amsterdam
If you fancy a trip to the beach while visiting Amsterdam, the coastal towns of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal are ideal for a day trip.
Located a short train ride from Amsterdam, they offer sandy beaches and inviting beach clubs dotted throughout the lengthy shorelines.
With its long sandy beach, Zandvoort is known for its vibrant beach culture, the various water sports activities available, and the Formula 1 racing track.
Bloemendaal, on the other hand, is a slightly quieter beach but very busy during the summer from morning till sundown.
Whether you wish to bask in the sun, enjoy beachfront dining, or dip your toes in the North Sea, Zandvoort and Bloemendaal are worth the visit.
How to Get to Zandvoort
The best way to get to Zandvoort is by train. A direct train ride from Amsterdam Centraal to Zandvoort aan Zee takes about 30 minutes. A day return ticket costs 13 euros.
How to Get to Bloemendaal
You can get to Bloemendaal by car or using public transport. Take the train from Amsterdam to Haarlem and the bus to Bloemendaal Strand from there.
Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen
Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen (Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes) is a sand-dune nature reserve featuring a trail network and tourist center.
The dunes serve as a habitat for many animals like the fox and fallow deer.
Located near the coast next to Zandvoort, the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen covers an area of approximately 3,400 hectares, making it one of the largest coastal nature reserves in the Netherlands.
This natural area is not only a haven for wildlife but also serves a crucial function in providing drinking water to the city of Amsterdam and its surrounding areas.
There are several hiking routes (from 4-kilometer long hikes to 10-kilometer and more) where you can enjoy the beautiful landscape and breathe the fresh air of the dunes.
Along the route, you’ll have the chance to take some amazing photographs of the dunes’ flora and fauna.
How to Get to Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen
The best way to get to Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen is by car.
You can also take the train from Amsterdam to Heemstede-Aerdenhout, and then the bus to Zaandvoortselaan.
Amsterdam Forest (Amsterdamse Bos)
If you prefer to stay closer to Amsterdam while enjoying nature, visit Amsterdamse Bos, Amsterdam Forest. The forest is a short bike ride from the center of Amsterdam. It covers over 1,000 hectares, providing an escape from urban life. (Technically, the forest isn’t in Amsterdam, but it’s neighboring municipality Amstelveen. Amstelveen is, however, part of the metropolitan area of Amsterdam.)
Amsterdamse Bos is where city residents and visitors can connect with nature, relax, and enjoy outdoor sports within the city limits.
The urban park offers several possibilities for outdoor activities like biking, kayaking, hiking, swimming, or horseback riding. It’s also home to various wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
There’s also an open-air theater, a goat farm, a climbing forest with zip lines, and a rowing lake.
How to get to Amsterdamse Bos
The best way to visit Amsterdamse Bos from Amsterdam city center is by bike. Rent a bike from the city center and take the Amstelveenseweg headed towards Amstelveen.
Less Than 2 Hours From Amsterdam Centraal
Delft
Delft, a charming town about an hour by train from Amsterdam, is most known for its world-famous blue and white pottery, Delftware. Delft was also the birthplace of Dutch Baroque Period painter Johannes Vermeer.
The idyllic town of Delft has a long history. It is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and canals. The market square is at the heart of the city, where you’ll find the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), its 109-meter tower, and the Renaissance-style town hall.
Visiting the Royal Delftware Factory is a must if you wish to learn more about the traditional artistry and craftsmanship that goes into Delft blue pottery.
Other attractions worth seeing are the panoramic view from the Nieuwe Kerk Tower, the architecture of the Oude Kerk (Old Church), the Prinsenhof Museum Delft, and the beautiful canals surrounding the city.
Delft’s calm atmosphere and rich history make it an ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.
If you’re planning a day trip to Delft, read our guide on the best things to do in Delft.
How to Get To Delft From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Delft From Amsterdam is by train. The train ride from Amsterdam to Delft takes approximately one hour. A day return ticket costs about 30 euros.
Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk, located in South Holland’s idyllic countryside, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a living tribute to Dutch water management and innovative thinking.
It’s home to 19 historic windmills, some of the most iconic in the Netherlands.
These windmills were originally built in the 18th century to pump excess water from the low-lying polders into higher canals, preventing floods and reclaiming land from the sea.
Visitors can explore the visitor center to learn about the history of Kinderdijk and the ongoing efforts to preserve this one-of-a-kind cultural asset.
A visit to Kinderdijk provides insight into the country’s constant battle with water and the inventive solutions that have defined the Dutch landscape and the country’s history.
How to Get to Kinderdijk From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam is by car. Getting there via public transport can get tricky (it’s doable, just more time-consuming).
If you decide to use public transport, you can take the train from Amsterdam to Rotterdam Central and then a ferry from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk. (Note that the ferry operates from May to October.)
You can always book a group tour from Amsterdam to Kinderdijk.
Hoge Veluwe National Park
If you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a day of outdoor adventure, Hoge Veluwe National Park is a natural oasis waiting to be explored.
Located in the central Netherlands, the park is known for its diverse landscapes, including woodlands, sand dunes, and lakes. It has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that allow you to encounter the park’s resident wildlife, including red deer and wild boar.
In the park, you’ll also find the Kröller-Müller Museum, which features a large collection of art and sculptures, including works by Vincent van Gogh. (The museum has the second-largest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world, right after the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.)
Hoge Veluwe National Park promises a day of natural beauty and cultural enrichment, whether you go on a nature trip, ride through the park on one of the free white bicycles supplied, or immerse yourself in art and culture.
How to Get To Hoge Veluwe From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Hoge Veluwe and the Kröller-Müller Museum is by car or booking a group trip.
Dordrecht
About an hour by train from Amsterdam, you’ll find Dordrecht, a historic town with canals, medieval buildings, and cultural riches.
Dordrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, dating back to the 11th century. Walking through the city’s well-preserved streets and waterfronts, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Dordrecht’s historic center has many gabled houses, centuries-old churches, and charming squares. The Grote Kerk (Great Church), a Gothic structure with a high tower offering panoramic views of the city, is one of the city’s notable landmarks.
Dordrecht’s museums and galleries will appeal to art and history buffs, especially the Dordrecht Museum, which holds an exceptional collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.
To explore Dordrecht, book a tour that combines city walking with a boat ride.
If you’re planning a day trip from Amsterdam that’s one hour away by train, Dordrecht is an ideal destination, combining history, culture, and scenic beauty.
How to Get To Dordrecht From Amsterdam
The best way to get to Dordrecht from Amsterdam is by train. The train ride takes approximately an hour. A day return ticket costs about 40€.
Antwerpen
Why not visit the neighboring country, Belgium, while in Amsterdam? Antwerp is the perfect destination for a day trip for many reasons.
First, Antwerp is full of history dating back to the Middle Ages. It’s also known as the Diamond Capital of The World. In addition, the city is famous for its rich fashion scene.
Beautiful historic buildings will welcome you to Antwerp, starting from your arrival at the train station. The Antwerpen-Centraal train station is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.
The city has several museums, including the Rubens House, former home and workshop of Flemish Baroque artist and diplomat Peter Paul Rubens.
At the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, you can marvel at the extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and tapestries dating from the 14th to the 20th century.
When you’re done with arts and culture, head to the Grote Markt for a drink or a bite at one of the many restaurants around the square. Order a local beer such as De Koninck. Or better yet, visit their City Brewery.
Continue exploring Antwerp by visiting the Diamond District and see the highly-skilled diamond-cutters at work.
While you can certainly explore Antwerp in one day, I highly suggest spending the night. The city has so much to offer, and you’ll likely feel rushed if you have to travel back the same day.
How to Get to Antwerp From Amsterdam
The best way to travel to Antwerp is by train. You can get to Antwerp Central from Amsterdam in less than 2 hours. The ticket price varies depending on the time and date of travel. You can get a day return ticket for less than 50 euros at best.
More than 2 Hours From Amsterdam
Giethoorn
Giethoorn is a fairytale-like village in the northeastern Netherlands.
What sets Giethoorn apart is its unique transportation system. There are no roads, and the primary mode of getting around is navigating a network of canals using traditional wooden boats.
The village is known for its picturesque thatched-roof cottages, wooden bridges, and green gardens, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Giethoorn used to offer a peaceful escape from the modern world and a chance to immerse in the tranquil beauty of the Dutch countryside. Nowadays, however, Giethoorn can get extremely busy.
To avoid the crowds while visiting Giethoorn, plan your visit in advance. Avoid peek summer weekends and aim for a mid-week day trip instead. The high season in Giethoorn runs from April to October (with the biggest peaks especially on weekends and on Dutch holidays).
Another tip from the locals is to come before 11:00 to avoid big crowds.
How to Get to Giethoorn
The best way to get to Giethoorn is by car or booking a group tour.
Maastricht
While I highly recommend spending the night in Maastricht, you can, of course, take a day trip to this beautiful and romantic city. But start your day early because it takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to get there by train from Amsterdam, and there’s a lot to see and explore.
Located in the southernmost part of the Netherlands, Maastricht offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern vitality.
The city’s beautifully preserved old town is full of historic buildings, cobbled streets, and charming squares.
The city’s heart is Vrijthof, a large square in the centre of Maastricht. Once an ancient Roman cemetery, it’s now the main square of Maastricht and the setting for André Rieu’s summer concerts.
Here, you’ll also find numerous cozy restaurants and beautiful hotels if you wish to spend the night in Maastricht. (Which you most probably will because everyone I know has fallen in love with Maastricht, myself included!)
Take a walk through the old town and stop for a bite at Maastricht’s numerous restaurants and cafes along the squares and narrow streets. Or go underground and explore the caves below St. Pietersberg Hill.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the Book Store Dominicanen (Boekhandel Dominicanen), a bookstore set in a medieval Dominican church.
How To Get To Maastricht From Amsterdam
The best way to visit Maastricht from Amsterdam is by train. The train ride takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. A day return ticket costs about 60€.
Consider these amazing places to visit while planning a day trip from Amsterdam.
Each destination offers a unique blend of culture, history, natural beauty, and culinary delights, making them all worth exploring to enhance your Dutch experience.
