When traveling, you will feel that time goes by so quickly, especially in the Netherlands (Holland) where there are many attractions. So, if you’re going to have a week in the Netherlands and don’t know what to do, what are the best places to visit, or you merely want to have road trips here, let’s read our post.
The Netherlands is relatively small. You can easily access the surrounding areas in just a day. There is even a Dutch phrase that if you spend an hour on a train, it’s quite a long time.
The most suitable means of transportation here is the train. A train (road trip) can take you anywhere from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, and many other destinations in the Netherlands. All you need to do is to buy a ticket, but remember to do it soon since they could be sold out at any time of the day.
Ticket fees vary according to the date. The maximum price for a train is 25 euros for one way.
So, what will you do to make the most of your week in the Netherlands? Don’t worry if you didn’t prepare a plan, that’s what we’re going to do for you.
1. On The First Three Days
Why three days (time in Holland)? Actually, it’s based on our personal experience. We believe three days are enough for road trips in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
What to do in Amsterdam, the Netherlands?
- Visit museums to see some of the city’s incredible art
- Discover the cool De Pijp district
- A look at Amsterdam’s sinister side, the Red Light District, for example
- See Amsterdam’s scenic canals
- Last but not least, try to have a taste of signature Dutch food
About living, you can book a hotel, hostel, or homestay. If you’re looking for something more budget, the Student Hotel is worth your consideration.
Because it’s much more affordable to stay in the rural, it may be preferable to spend three days and two nights in Amsterdam before traveling to the other cities we will mention below.
2. A Day Trip To Hoorn And Zaanse Schans
When coming to Zaanse Schans, you are totally out of charge to see the symbolic Dutch windmills. To avoid crowds, we suggest not spending more than two to three hours here.
Then, let’s return to the train station close to Zaanse Schans to board a train to Hoorn.
Hoorn is a beautiful city along the Zuiderzee that was once a major coastal port. The wealth of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) played a major role in creating the city’s insanely captivating architecture.
This location is ideal for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. And we highly recommend going on a market day!
3. Netherlands In A Week: A Day Trip To Haarlem
Haarlem is a lovely Dutch city to walk around in. Nothing beats sipping a fresh mint tea while admiring the St. Bavokerk from the Grote Markt. And if you’re a big fan of science, the must-see place for you is Teylers Museum.
Also, you can enjoy a leisurely ride (time in Holland) along Haarlem’s canals before stopping at Jopen, a brewery housed in a former church.
And when it comes to Haarlem, the unmissable thing to mention is the tulip fields. Tulip season in the Netherlands runs from the middle to the end of April.
Most people visit Keukenhof to admire the tulips, but you can tour the fields in Lisse for free.
4. Netherlands In A Week: A Day In Utrecht
This beautiful university city features two-story canals and a gorgeous church tower. Utrecht is well-known for its foodie culture. As a result, a day spent exploring this historic Dutch city won’t disappoint.
5. A Day In The Hague
The unique architecture in Hague will undoubtedly take your breath away the moment you set foot in the city. The Mauritshuis is located here, and it houses the Girl with the Pearl Earring and other Dutch works of art.
Make sure to visit Denneweg, one of the city’s most beautiful canals. Then, on a nice day, think about going to Scheveningen’s beach.
6. Netherlands In A Week: A Day In Rotterdam
After being torn to shreds in WWII, Rotterdam was reconstructed. Instead of sticking to the old look, this city was renewed with innovative skylines and artistic architectural style.
If you’re seeking something other than the historic cities, Rotterdam is the place to be, with many districts packed with excellent food and stores.
7. A Day In Den Bosch
The famous Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch lived in Den Bosch, which has a well-preserved medieval center. There are beautiful canals all over the city where traders used to transport their items. One of the unique tours you should try here is a tour of the Binnendieze.
8. Netherlands In A Week: A Day In Maastricht
Maastricht is one of the Netherlands’ hidden gems. As a result, most people are unaware of it and therefore, skip it.
The historic city center here combines architectural designs, with many medieval churches converted into bookshops and hotel chains, as well as a thriving food culture.
It’s also an excellent starting point for traveling to other countries. For example, Germany is only an hour away by bus, and Liege, Belgium is another hour away by train (time in Holland).
Related Posts You Can Read:
The most attractive cities to visit in the Netherlands by train
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