The Netherlands, with its picturesque windmills, charming canals, and vibrant tulip fields, offers a wealth of cultural and natural treasures waiting to be discovered. If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting country and have a week to spare, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through the Netherlands keeping Amsterdam as our base, suggesting an itinerary that you can cover in 5 days to 6 days
Best things to do in Amsterdam
I have classified this into Museums and Fun activities below based on your liking. Ideally we would recommend Anne Frank museum if you only want to choose one of the museums
1. [ Museum] Visit the Anne Frank House, a museum dedicated to the young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II.
2. [Fun]Take a canal cruise, a great way to see the city from a different perspective. If you are in a group taking a private tour or canal boat might be cheaper and more fun!
3. [ Museum]Visit the Rijksmuseum, one of the most famous museums in the world, with a collection of Dutch art from the 17th century.
4. [ Museum]Visit the Van Gogh Museum, another world-renowned museum, with a collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and drawings.
5. [Fun] Red Light Area with a walking tour to understand how it came into existence and enjoy the atmosphere around
6. [Fun]Visit the Heineken Experience, a tour of the famous Heineken brewery.
7. [Fun] Take a bike ride through the city, a great way to see more of Amsterdam and get some exercise. Please note; don’t take a bike if you are new to riding it or not comfortable.
8. [Fun] Checkout the Coffee Shop culture of Amsterdam that the city is famously known for.
Day trips from Amsterdam
1.Zaanse Schans: Experience a glimpse of traditional Dutch life at Zaanse Schans, a living museum village near Amsterdam. Admire the well-preserved windmills, visit the wooden shoe workshop, and learn about the area’s industrial heritage.
2. Keukenhof Gardens(Only March – May) You can’t visit Holland and not expect to see some technicolor tulips. There are many places around the country to view the beautiful flowers, but the Keukenhof Gardens (open from March to May) and sprawling fields around the town of Lisse are a sure thing.
3. Giethoorn: Giethoorn village, the most beautiful and fairytale village in the Netherlands. The Dutch village where the inhabitants can only sail around, walk or cycle.
Must try Food in Netherlands:
- Poffertjes: These are small pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour. They are typically served with powdered sugar and butter.
- Bitterballen: These are deep-fried meatballs made with beef or pork, breadcrumbs, and herbs. They are typically served with mustard.
- Frites: These are French fries that are typically served with mayonnaise or peanut sauce. They are often served with a side of curry ketchup.
- Stroopwafel: This is a waffle that is made with two thin waffles that are sandwiched together with a layer of caramel syrup. It is often served warm.
(A good souvenir) Dutch Cheese: Dutch cheese is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality and rich flavors, with varieties such as Gouda and Edam being celebrated for their distinct characteristics and centuries-old cheese-making traditions. The Netherlands’ expertise in cheese production has made it a paradise for cheese lovers, offering a wide range of flavors, from creamy and mild to bold and aged.
These are just a few of the many Dutch foods that you can try. With its rich culinary history, the Netherlands is a country that has something to offer
Transportation Tips:
Amsterdam offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the city efficiently. Here are some ways to commute in Amsterdam:
- Public Transportation: The city’s public transportation system is extensive and well-connected. You can use trams, buses, and the metro to get around. The GVB operates these services, and you can purchase tickets at stations or use a contactless payment method like an OV-chipkaart for seamless travel.
- Cycling: Amsterdam is famous for its bike-friendly infrastructure, and cycling is an excellent way to get around the city. Rent a bike from one of the numerous rental shops, and pedal through the city’s streets, taking advantage of dedicated bike lanes and parking facilities.
- Walking: Amsterdam is a compact city, and many attractions and neighborhoods are within walking distance. Grab a map or use a navigation app, and explore the city on foot. You’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the charming streets, picturesque canals, and hidden gems along the way.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Amsterdam, and you can easily find them at designated taxi stands or hail them on the street. Ensure the taxi has a blue number plate, as these are licensed taxis. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber to book a taxi conveniently.
Here are some tours and links that you can book to make your trip even more informative and relaxing. These are all tried and tested by our team of travelers and come highly recommended: