Exploring the Netherlands: The Best Day Trips from Amsterdam by Train, Bus, and Car

by | Jun 30, 2024 | Amsterdam City Guide, Blog, Explore Netherlands

amsterdam day trips
Amsterdam, a fantastic hub, offers a wealth of options for exploring the diverse and picturesque regions of the Netherlands. Whether you prefer the convenience of a train, the flexibility of a bus, or the independence of a car, there’s a day trip that perfectly suits your travel style. This guide will take you through some of the most charming and easily accessible destinations you can visit in a day from Amsterdam, ensuring your journey is as smooth as it is exciting.
By Car
By Bus
By Train
One-Day Trip
Short Trips
International

By Car

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover off-the-beaten-path locations. Here are some tips and recommended routes:

  • Advantages: Flexibility to stop whenever and wherever you want, explore scenic routes, and visit less accessible destinations.
  • Tips for Renting: Choose a reputable rental company (Europcar for example), check for insurance options, and familiarize yourself with local driving rules.
  • Scenic Drives: Consider driving through the Dutch countryside to places like Kinderdijk’s windmills or the charming village of Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North.”

By Train

Traveling by train in the Netherlands is fast, comfortable, and offers picturesque views of the countryside. Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Benefits: Avoid traffic, relax in comfortable seats, and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.
  • Purchasing Tickets: Buy tickets online through websites like Omio or directly at the train station using self-service machines.
  • Useful Apps and Websites: Use the NS (Dutch Railways) app for schedules and real-time updates.
  • Top Destinations: Here are some of the most popular onesUtrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague Zaanse Schans, Leiden, Gouda, and Delft. Amsterdam is also a great hub for traveling to the neighboring countries (France, Germany, Belgium, Luxemburg).

By Bus

Buses are a cost-effective and convenient way to reach smaller towns and enjoy the landscape. Here are some tips:

  • Advantages: Budget-friendly, an extensive network covering even small towns, and easy to book tickets.
  • Major Bus Companies: Check out services from companies like FlixBus and Arriva.
  • Comfort Tips: Bring snacks and a good book, and download offline maps and entertainment.
  • Top Destinations: Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal), Kinderdijk, Giethoorn, Utrecht, Rotterdam and The Hague. 

One-Day Trip from Amsterdam in the Netherlands

Alkmaar

Alkmaar is renowned for its traditional cheese market, which is held every Friday from April to September. The town also boasts beautiful canals and historical buildings, making it a charming day trip destination.

  • Travel Time: 40 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Traditional cheese market, Stedelijk Museum, picturesque canals.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Korvin McKernek, Pexels

Delft

Delft is famous for its iconic blue pottery and rich history, being the birthplace of painter Johannes Vermeer. Its picturesque canals and charming city center are perfect for leisurely exploration.

  • Travel Time: 1 hour by train.
  • Highlights: Delftware pottery factories, Old Church, Vermeer Centrum.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Igor Passchier, Pexels

Giethoorn

Often called the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a quaint village known for its serene canals and charming thatched-roof houses. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat tours through its waterways.

  • Travel Time: 2 hours by car or bus.
  • Highlights: Canal boat tours, thatched-roof houses, serene countryside.
  • Bus Tickets: Available on the Arriva website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Kadir Avşar, Pexels

Keukenhof

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is a spectacular park with millions of blooming flowers. During the spring season, it is a must-visit to witness its vibrant tulip displays. Looking for hidden flower fields? Check out these locations in Lisse: Zwartelaan, Essenlaan, and Loosterweg-Zuid.

  • Travel Time: 1 hour by bus.
  • Highlights: Tulip gardens, seasonal flower shows.
  • Buy Tickets: Available on GetYourGuide and the official website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress, offers a fascinating glimpse into the Netherlands’ history. Its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens make it an interesting day trip.
  • Travel Time: 30 minutes by car or train and bus.
  • Highlights: Well-preserved medieval castle, historical exhibits, beautiful gardens.
  • Train and Bus Tickets: Available on NS and local bus websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Julien Garot, Pexels

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city features unique landmarks such as the Erasmus Bridge and the innovative Markthal.

  • Travel Time: 1 hour by train.
  • Highlights: Modern architecture, Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, cube houses.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Omio.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

The Hague (Den Haag)

The Hague is the political heart of the Netherlands, home to the Dutch government and royal family. It offers a mix of historical sites, museums, and a beautiful seaside.

  • Travel Time: 50 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Mauritshuis Museum, Binnenhof, Scheveningen Beach.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Omio.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

Utrecht

Utrecht is a vibrant city with a rich medieval history centered around its iconic Dom Tower. The city’s canals and lively cultural scene make it a delightful destination.

  • Travel Time: 25 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Dom Tower, canals, University Museum.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Omio.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

Volendam and Marken

Volendam and Marken are picturesque fishing villages known for their traditional Dutch culture and scenic beauty. They offer visitors a taste of local life and stunning harbor views.

  • Travel Time: 1 hour by bus.
  • Highlights: Traditional fishing villages, harbor, local seafood, traditional costumes.
  • Bus Tickets: Available on the EBS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Leo Vullings, Pexels

Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a historic area featuring well-preserved windmills and traditional Dutch houses. It provides a glimpse into the Netherlands’ industrial past and cultural heritage.

    • Travel Time: 30 minutes by train.
    • Highlights: Historic windmills, cheese factories, clog workshops.
    • Train Tickets: Available on Omio.
    • Boat Tour Tickets: See the Zaanse Schans from a completely new perspective by exploring it from the water.
    • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Ali Alcántara, Pexels

Short Trips from Amsterdam

Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a city rich in medieval architecture, featuring charming canals and well-preserved city walls. It is also home to the Mondriaan House, dedicated to the famous painter Piet Mondrian.

  • Travel Time: 35 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Medieval architecture, Mondriaan House, Amersfoort Zoo.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Jan van der Wolf, Pexels

Gouda

Gouda is a historic city famous for its cheese, with a traditional cheese market held weekly. Visitors can explore its beautiful old town, including the impressive St. John’s Church.

  • Travel Time: 55 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Famous cheese market, St. John’s Church, historic city hall.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Bart Ros, Pexels

Haarlem

Haarlem is a charming city known for its beautiful old town and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to the Grote Markt and the fascinating Teylers Museum.

  • Travel Time: 15 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Grote Markt, Teylers Museum, boutique shopping.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Philipp Galichkin, Pexels

Leiden

Leiden is a historic city with the oldest university in the Netherlands. It is rich in culture and history, and its picturesque canals and numerous museums make it a delightful destination.

  • Travel Time: 30 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Botanical garden, museums, historic city center.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Igor Passchier, Pexels

Muiden

Muiden is a small town known for the impressive Muiderslot Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. The town offers a quaint atmosphere with scenic views.

  • Travel Time: 30 minutes by car or bus.
  • Highlights: Muiderslot Castle, quaint town center.
  • Bus Tickets: Available on local bus websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Rick van Houten, Pexels

Zaandam

Zaandam is a lively town known for the Zaanse Schans, an area with historic windmills and traditional houses. It also offers modern attractions like the Czaar Peter House and shopping at the Zaanse House.

  • Travel Time: 20 minutes by train.
  • Highlights: Zaanse Schans, Czaar Peter House, shopping at the Zaanse House.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Teodor Savin, Pexels

International Options from Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s strategic location in Europe makes it an excellent base for exploring neighboring countries on a day trip. With efficient and high-speed transportation options, you can easily venture beyond the Netherlands and immerse yourself in nearby cities’ rich cultures and vibrant atmospheres. Here are a few nice locations just a few hours away from Amsterdam.

Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp is a vibrant city in Belgium known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and thriving diamond trade. It offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern attractions.

  • Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp Zoo, MAS (Museum aan de Stroom).
  • Train Tickets: Available on Trainline and NS International websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Melike Benli, Pexels

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is famous for its historical sites, modern attractions, and world-renowned chocolates. The city’s Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Travel Time: 2 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Grand Place, Atomium, Manneken Pis.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Eurostar and Trainline websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Petar Starčević, Pexels

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a fairy-tale medieval town known for its cobbled streets, canals, and historic buildings. It’s a perfect destination for experiencing Belgium’s rich history and charm.

  • Travel Time: 3 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Belfry of Bruges, Markt Square, Bruges canals.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Trainline and NS International websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

Cologne, Germany

Cologne is a historic city known for its impressive Gothic cathedral and lively cultural scene. Situated along the Rhine River, it offers a mix of historical sites and modern attractions.

  • Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Cologne Cathedral, Rhine River cruises, Chocolate Museum.
  • Train Tickets: Available on the Deutsche Bahn website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Ertabbt, Pexels

Düsseldorf, Germany

Düsseldorf is a city known for its fashion industry and art scene. It offers a vibrant nightlife, impressive modern architecture, and a beautiful riverside promenade.

  • Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Königsallee, Rheinturm, Altstadt (Old Town).
  • Train Tickets: Available on the Deutsche Bahn website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Masood Aslami, Pexels

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is a picturesque city known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It offers a charming blend of history, culture, and modern life.

  • Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Ghent Altarpiece.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS International website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Viktor Mogilat, Pexels

Lille, France

Lille is a charming city in northern France known for its beautiful Flemish architecture and vibrant cultural life. The city offers an array of museums, art galleries, and delightful cafes.

  • Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Palais des Beaux-Arts, Grand Place, Old Lille.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Eurostar and Trainline websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Matteo Angeloni, Pexels

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg City is known for its fortified medieval old town perched on cliffs. The city blends a rich history with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and offers many attractions.

  • Travel Time: 4 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Casemates du Bock, Grand Ducal Palace, Luxembourg American Cemetery Memorial.
  • Train Tickets: Available on NS International website.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Ad Thiry, Pexels

Paris, France

Paris, the capital of France, needs little introduction with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and romantic ambiance, and offers endless exploration.

  • Travel Time: 3.5 hours by train.
  • Highlights: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Train Tickets: Available on Trainline and Eurostar websites.
  • Get Tickets to Guided Tours: GetYourGuide, Headout, Tiqets.
© Gayane Mkhitaryan

Useful Tips before Planning your Trip

  • Start Early: To make the most of your day, start your trip early in the morning.
  • Check Schedules: Verify train or bus schedules ahead of time to avoid waiting.
  • Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, and a portable charger for your devices.
  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many destinations involve a fair amount of walking.
  • Best Times to Travel: Avoid peak hours for a more comfortable journey, and consider the season for specific attractions (e.g., Keukenhof in spring).
  • Local Cuisine: Try local delicacies such as stroopwafels in Delft, seafood in Rotterdam, and chocolates in Brussels.
  • General Safety Tips: Keep your belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local regulations.
  • Emergency Contacts: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and healthcare facilities.
  • Tourist Information Centers: Visit local tourist centers for maps, brochures, and additional information.

FAQs on Amsterdam Day Trips

How can I buy train tickets for day trips from Amsterdam?

Train tickets can be purchased in several ways:

  • Online: Websites like NS (Dutch Railways), Omio, Trainline, and Eurostar offer easy online booking.
  • At the Station: Self-service ticket machines and ticket counters are available at major train stations.
  • Apps: The NS app provides schedules, real-time updates, and ticket purchasing options.

Are there guided tours available for day trips from Amsterdam?

Yes, there are many guided tours available that offer convenience and insights into the destinations. Websites like GetYourGuide, Viator, and local tour operators offer a variety of day trip options, including guided tours to popular destinations like Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans, and Brussels.

Which town is close to Amsterdam?

Haarlem is the closest town near Amsterdam, just 15 minutes away by train. It is known for its beautiful old town, museums, and vibrant cultural scene. Another nearby town is Zaandam, located about 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam. It is famous for the Zaanse Schans area, which has historic windmills and traditional Dutch houses.

Which German city is closer to Amsterdam?

Düsseldorf is one of the closest German cities to Amsterdam, about 2.5 hours away by train. It is known for its fashion industry, art scene, and vibrant nightlife. Another nearby German city is Cologne, which is approximately 2.5 hours by train. It is known for its impressive Gothic cathedral and cultural attractions.

What are the affordable cities close to Amsterdam?

Some affordable cities close to Amsterdam include:

  • Haarlem: Just 15 minutes by train, offering a charming old town and more affordable dining and accommodation options compared to Amsterdam.
  • Leiden: About 30 minutes by train, known for its historic city center and university, offering a variety of budget-friendly activities and accommodations.
  • Utrecht: 25 minutes by train, offering a mix of historical sites and modern amenities at more reasonable prices than Amsterdam.

What country is closest to Amsterdam by train?

Belgium is the closest country to Amsterdam by train. Cities like Antwerp and Brussels are easily accessible, with Antwerp being about 1.5 hours away and Brussels about 2 hours away by train. These cities offer rich cultural experiences and historical attractions, making them ideal for day trips.

Conclusion

Amsterdam’s central location is an ideal starting point for various day trips. Whether you travel by car, train, or bus and have half a day or a full day to spare, countless destinations await exploring. From historic Dutch towns to vibrant international cities, each trip promises unique experiences and memories. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and embark on an adventure beyond Amsterdam.

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