Daytrips in the Netherlands

April 2023 — By Emma van der Lee

Even though Maastricht has its charms, the Netherlands has many more amazing places to visit. From the iconic windmills and tulip fields to the canals and idyllic villages. Obviously, you will experience the capital with the gay scene, red-light district (a must-visit, it is super interesting to see!), Anne Frank House and maybe the Rijksmuseum, but the Netherlands offers much more to keep you in awe. In this blogpost, I will share my must-visit spots.

Kinderdijk

Touristy destinations are touristy for a reason. The many iconic windmills of this country, can best be visited at Kinderdijk which is a UNESCO-protected site showcasing 19 windmills. They are located in the wetlands near Rotterdam and designed in the 18th century to drain the polders and prevent floods. Did you know that the Netherlands lies under sea level for 26%? If the country would not pump out water 24/7, the major cities in the west would not exist. You can learn more about the Dutch water management here and take a boat or bike ride around the area.

Zaanse Schans and Alkmaar

The Zaanse Schans and Alkmaar are two popular destinations in the Netherlands that are located relatively close to each other. The Zaanse Schans is a historic village located just outside of Amsterdam that’s known for its picturesque windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and quaint shops and museums. Visitors to Zaanse Schans can learn about traditional Dutch crafts and industries, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and architecture. Moreover, the very first Albert Heijn (biggest Dutch supermarket chain) was established here and can be brought a visit.

Alkmaar, on the other hand, is a charming city that is known for its historic center, beautiful canals, and famous cheese market. The cheese market takes place every Friday morning during the summer months, and it is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Visitors to Alkmaar can also explore the city’s various museums and historic buildings, enjoy the local cuisine and shopping, and take in the beautiful scenery and culture.

Friesland

Friesland, also known as Fryslân in Dutch, is a beautiful province in the north of the Netherlands that offers a unique and authentic holiday experience. It is home to cute little villages and delicious cuisine, which includes specialties such as smoked eel, Frisian sugar bread, and a variety of cheeses. Visitors can sample the local cuisine at traditional restaurants and cafes, or visit local markets and farms to buy fresh produce. Moreover, Friesland is a paradise for sailing and other water sports since it has over 11,000 lakes and canals.

Volendam

Volendam is a picturesque fishing village located in the province of North Holland. One of the main attractions in Volendam is the traditional Dutch costume, which is still worn by many locals today. Visitors can see the traditional clothing on display at the Volendam Museum, and even try on the costumes themselves. Another popular attraction in Volendam is the harbor, where visitors can take a boat tour to the nearby island of Marken or simply enjoy the view of the traditional fishing boats and charming houses along the water. Volendam is also famous for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed at many of the local restaurants and cafes. Smoked eel is a local specialty that should not be missed.

Efteling

The Efteling is definitely a must-visit if you like theme parks. It is one of the most popular and beloved attractions in the country and though it might be quite pricey, it is definitely worth the while. The Efteling is known for its magical and enchanting atmosphere, with many of the park’s attractions and rides based on traditional fairy tales and folklore. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Fairytale Forest, which features life-sized fairy tale scenes and characters, or the Droomvlucht ride, which takes visitors on a magical journey through a dream world. The beautiful scenery is enchanting, and attractions for every age exist.

Utrecht

If you like city trips, definitely give Utrecht a go. It is a vibrant and historic city located in the center of the Netherlands, and it offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for tourists. Utrecht is a cosmopolitan city that offers many options for shopping and dining. Visitors can explore the city’s many shops and boutiques, or sample the local cuisine at a variety of restaurants and cafes. Moreover, the city hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous King’s Day celebration in April and the Festival Oude Muziek, a festival of early music that takes place in August. If you visit the city, definitely take a canoeing tour through the city’s canals.

De Keukenhof

If you are a nature lover, visit the Keukenhof. The Keukenhof is home to over seven million flowers, including tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and many other spring flowers. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths and walkways to see the beautiful floral displays up close. In addition to its floral displays, the Keukenhof also features many works of art and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy a variety of music performances and art exhibitions or take part in workshops and demonstrations. It’s a beautiful and peaceful oasis where visitors can enjoy the best of spring in the Netherlands.

— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

I hope that these tips trigger you to explore the Netherlands and its beautiful cities and landscapes. See you soon in Maastricht!

Greetings,

Emma