Other Places to Visit Near Amsterdam

Other Places to Visit Near Amsterdam

If you have extra time during your visit, there are many wonderful places around Amsterdam that are perfect for a day trip. Many of these destinations can be reached within an hour by train, bike, or bus.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam, sometimes called “Manhattan on the Meuse”, is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and home to Europe’s largest port. Unlike Amsterdam, Rotterdam was largely rebuilt after World War II, which is why the city is famous for its modern architecture and impressive skyline.

Visitors come to see highlights such as the Cube Houses, the Markthal, and the Erasmus Bridge. The city also has a lively cultural scene, great restaurants, and a friendly, international atmosphere.

If you would like to explore the city with a local guide, you can join our Free Walking Tour Rotterdam.

Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is one of the most famous historic areas in the Netherlands. This open-air village recreates life from the 18th and 19th centuries and is known for its traditional wooden houses, working windmills, and historic workshops.

You can watch wooden clogs being made, visit a traditional cheese farm, explore windmills, and stroll past historic barns and warehouses. Although it is a popular tourist destination, it is still a beautiful place to experience traditional Dutch culture.

The Zaanse Schans is only a short trip from Amsterdam and can even be reached by bike if you enjoy cycling.

Haarlem

Haarlem is a charming medieval city located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam by train. The city is known for its beautiful historic centre, cosy streets, and lively café culture.

Highlights include the Grote Markt, the impressive St. Bavo Church, and the Frans Hals Museum. Haarlem offers a relaxed atmosphere, excellent shopping streets, and many great restaurants.

You can also discover the city with our Free Walking Tour Haarlem.

Utrecht

Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and a vibrant university town. The city centre is built around the famous Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the country.

Utrecht’s canals are unique because they have historic wharf cellars that now house cafés, restaurants, and shops right along the water.

If you want to explore the city with a guide, you can join our Free Walking Tour Utrecht.

Keukenhof

Every spring the famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse burst into bloom with millions of colourful flowers. The park is especially known for its spectacular tulip displays.

Keukenhof is often called the largest flower garden in the world and attracts visitors from all over the globe.

The gardens are open each spring, usually from mid-March until mid-May.

Delft

Delft is a beautiful historic town known for its picturesque canals, medieval buildings, and relaxed atmosphere.

The city is famous for its Delft Blue pottery, the distinctive blue-and-white ceramics inspired by Chinese porcelain.

You can explore this charming city with our Free Walking Tour Delft.