If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, don’t just stay in Amsterdam! While the capital has its own magic, there are so many beautiful day trips from Amsterdam that are totally worth it – think cute Dutch towns, windmills, tulip fields (in spring), beaches, and even Belgium!
Whether you’re after history, nature, or something a bit quirky, there’s something nearby for everyone.
👉 New here? Make sure to also check out our other Amsterdam guides before planning your day trips:
Once you’ve explored the city, these top day trips from Amsterdam will help you discover even more of what the Netherlands (and nearby Belgium!) has to offer.
We’ve included all the important info – how to get there, how much time you need, what it costs, and extra tips to make your day smooth and fun. Let’s go!
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Bruges, Belgium – Fairytale Canals & Belgian Waffles
Distance: ~3 hours one way
Transport: Train via Antwerp or Brussels (NS International)
Cost: €30–€60 round-trip
Recommended time: Full day, leave early (7–8 am)
Bruges is like a dream – cobblestone streets, canals, medieval buildings, and more chocolate shops than you can count. It’s definitely one of the most magical day trips from Amsterdam, even though it’s in another country.
Tips:
- Book train tickets in advance for cheaper prices.
- Wear comfy shoes – you’ll want to explore the city on foot.
- Don’t miss the Market square, Belfry tower (366 steps, but worth it), and a boat tour through the canals.
- Belgian fries + waffles = a must.
Keukenhof & Lisse – Tulip Heaven (Spring Only)
Distance: ~45 min to 1 hour
Transport: Bus from Schiphol or Leiden, or drive
Cost: €19 entry + €10–15 for transport
Recommended time: Half to full day
If you’re visiting between mid-March and mid-May, Keukenhof is a must. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Amsterdam in spring, known for its rainbow fields of tulips and other flowers.
Tips:
- Book your tickets online in advance.
- Combine with a bike rental to explore nearby flower fields.
- Pack snacks and water; food inside is pricey.
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Zaanse Schans – Windmills & Wooden Clogs
Distance: 20 min by train
Transport: Direct train to Zaandijk-Zaanse Schans
Cost: €4–€5 each way, some attractions are free
Recommended time: Half day
Just outside Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is like stepping into a postcard. Windmills, traditional green wooden houses, cheese farms, and clog-making demos – it’s one of the easiest and most Dutch-feeling day trips from Amsterdam.
Tips:
- Entrance to the village is free, but windmill entry costs €5–€6.
- Perfect for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Great spot for families too.
Zandvoort – Beach Escape
Distance: ~30–40 min
Transport: Direct train from Amsterdam Central
Cost: €6–€8 one way
Recommended time: Half to full day
Need a break from the city? Head to the coast! Zandvoort is Amsterdam’s closest beach spot and super popular in summer. This is one of the chillest day trips from Amsterdam for sun, sea, and drinks on a terrace.
Tips:
- Bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear in summer.
- Beach bars (like Ubuntu and Hippie Fish) are perfect for sunset cocktails.
Utrecht – Cute Canals & Underground Secrets
Distance: ~25–30 min
Transport: Direct train from Amsterdam Central
Cost: €9 one way
Recommended time: Half to full day
Utrecht is like a smaller, more relaxed Amsterdam, with unique canals, cozy cafes, and lots of hidden gems. It’s one of the most underrated day trips from Amsterdam – easy to reach and full of charm.
Tips:
- Visit the Dom Tower and walk through the DomUnder ruins.
- Enjoy brunch at The Streetfood Club or coffee at 30ml.
- Rent a bike if you want to explore beyond the center.
Gouda – Cheese, Churches & Cute Streets
Distance: ~1 hour
Transport: Train from Amsterdam Central (1 change)
Cost: €10–€15 one way
Recommended time: Half day
Yes, Gouda is a real place – and yes, the cheese is amazing! This town is a great option for relaxed day trips from Amsterdam if you’re into history, cute markets, and local charm.
Tips:
- Visit on a Thursday for the traditional cheese market (April–August).
- Check out St. John’s Church and its massive stained glass windows.
- Try syrup waffles (stroopwafels) fresh from the bakery.
Giethoorn – The Venice of the North
Distance: ~2.5 hours
Transport: Train to Steenwijk + bus, or rent a car
Cost: €20–€30 one way
Recommended time: Full day
Giethoorn is that village you’ve seen on Instagram – no roads, just canals. It’s a peaceful escape and one of the most unique day trips from Amsterdam.
Tips:
- Rent a small boat or join a guided canal tour.
- Weekdays = fewer tourists.
- Bring snacks or have lunch at a canal-side café.
- Avoid going when it’s raining – no cover while boating.
The Hague & Scheveningen – Politics & Beach Combo
Distance: ~1 hour
Transport: Direct train from Amsterdam Central
Cost: ~€14 one way
Recommended time: Full day
Mix a bit of culture with beach vibes in The Hague! You can visit the International Court of Justice, explore art museums, then head to Scheveningen for a walk by the sea. It’s one of the most well-rounded day trips from Amsterdam.
Tips:
- Visit Mauritshuis Museum to see Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring.
- Combine this trip with the theme park of Madurodam if you’re traveling with kids.
- Grab dinner at the pier in Scheveningen before heading back.
Final Tips for All Day Trips from Amsterdam
- Train tickets can be booked on NS.nl or NS International for Belgium.
- Always check train schedules – Dutch trains are usually reliable but delays happen. You can use the NS app!
- Bring portable chargers, water, and snacks for longer journeys.
- Download Google Maps offline for your destinations – super handy for exploring on foot.
- Get an OV-chipkaart if you’re doing multiple train trips – it makes travel easier.
Day trips from Amsterdam open up a whole new world of experiences just beyond the city. Whether you’re chasing tulips, wandering fairytale towns, or soaking up some sun at the beach, there’s so much to see in just one day.
Which one are you planning to do first? 😊