Exploring the Dutch Countryside: Day Trips Out of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is undoubtedly an enchanting city, pulsating with energy and excitement, but let’s be honest—sometimes you need a break from all the bikes, canals, and persistent offers for a “special brownie.” Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Netherlands has a plethora of adventures waiting just a short train ride away. So, leave your clogs behind, and let’s dive into some delightful day trips out of Amsterdam.
Zaansche Schans: A Dutch Fairytale
Windmills, wooden shoes, and waffles—oh my! A visit to Zaansche Schans is like stepping back into a 17th-century Dutch painting. This charming village is an open-air museum that allows you to experience traditional Dutch life, complete with fully functioning windmills. The best part? It’s only a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam’s Centraal Station. You won’t even have time to finish reading your magazine before it’s time to disembark.
The sights and sounds of Zaansche Schans are truly enchanting. Stroll through the luscious green fields, and make sure to sample some authentic Dutch cheese. Plus, if you smell something saccharine wafting through the air, follow your nose to the waffle shop. If you leave without trying a freshly made stroopwafel, did you really even visit?
The Hague: Government And Gossip
Fancy a bit of political intrigue with your day out? Head over to The Hague, the political heart of the Netherlands. It’s a 50-minute train journey, so pack a snack and maybe a politically themed novel for the ride. Upon arrival, explore the Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics. It’s a marvel that this gorgeous Gothic complex is the setting for serious decision-making and not the backdrop for a Netflix series.
No trip to The Hague is complete without a stroll through the Mauritshuis museum, home to iconic works like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” But be warned, it might reignite your existential crisis about buying earrings you’ll never wear. To decompress, head to Scheveningen Beach. It’s the perfect spot to dip your toes in the North Sea and contemplate the deep mysteries of life—or just readjust your earrings.
Utrecht: Cafés And Canals
You might think Amsterdam has cornered the market on spectacular canals, but Utrecht would like a word. Just 30 minutes from Amsterdam, this underestimated gem boasts canals lined with cheerful cafés, charming shops, and probably more bicycles than humans. It’s like a more relaxed, less touristy version of its bigger sibling, Amsterdam.
Start your visit with a climb up the Dom Tower. With 465 steps, it’s the ultimate step-count challenge—your smart watch will validate your decision to indulge in more Dutch cheese later. Back on ground level, wander through the pedestrian-friendly streets and pop into one of the many inviting cafés for a cup of koffie and a slice of apple pie.
Haarlem: Amsterdam’s Laid-Back Cousin
If Amsterdam is your vivacious cousin who’s the life of the party, Haarlem is the cool one who reads poetry and sips artisanal tea. It’s just 15 minutes away by train, but it feels worlds apart. In Haarlem, you can enjoy a slower pace and fewer crowds, which gives you more time to find a café where you can debate the best bars in Amsterdam.
Begin your day in the Grote Markt, Haarlem’s central square, perfect for some people-watching and pondering life’s bigger questions, like why the Dutch language hasn’t adopted the word “the.” For a dose of culture, swing by the Frans Hals Museum, where you can see masterpieces from Haarlem’s favorite Golden Age artist. Need a touch of green? The flower fields nearby are a sight for sore eyes, especially during tulip season.
Fancy A Splash?
After a day filled with exploration and perhaps a bit too much cheese, head back for a relaxing evening. For the weary traveler, Amsterdam’s array of relaxing accommodations awaits. From chic boutique hideaways to luxurious canal-side experiences, there are plenty of hotels in Amsterdam promising a good night’s sleep, especially after all that day-tripping.