14 Easy Weekend Trips From Amsterdam

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Looking to add a destination to your Amsterdam trip? Check out these 14 easy weekend trips close to Amsterdam that you can get to by train.

Amsterdam has no shortage of glorious sites, museums and attractions worth seeing. However, it’s not out of the ordinary to try and maximize your time abroad by taking a day trip or two from Amsterdam.

Weekend trips from Amsterdam are the perfect way to still experience Amsterdam city but also popular highlights throughout the Netherlands, or just across the border.

Luckily, planning a weekend trip from Amsterdam is an incredibly attainable goal and made possible with easy to use train travel. 

In this guide, you’ll find a list of the best destinations for a weekend getaway from Amsterdam along with tips on how to get there and what to see once you arrive!

Quick List: Best Weekend Trips From Amsterdam

• Utrecht
• Haarlem
• Alkmaar
• Edam & Voldendam
• The Hague
• Delft
• Rotterdam
• Arnhem
• Giethoorn & Steenwijk
• Zaanse Schans
• Eindhoven
• Düsseldorf
• Antwerp
• Paris

What Other Cities Are Close to Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is conveniently located within close proximity to a handful of major European cities. In addition to being easily accesible to Antwerp, Brussels, Paris and even London, it’s a great base for exploring other gems locally and within the Netherlands.

From Amsterdam, one can quickly travel to the country’s other metropolises like Rotterdam and the Hague in just one hour.

Easy Trips From Amsterdam on a Map

Best Destinations for Weekend Trips From Amsterdam

1. Utrecht

As the fourth largest Dutch city, Utrecht is also one of the closest weekend getaways from Amsterdam. It is not only one of the fastest growing cities but also one of the happiest cities in the Netherlands. Some of the best things to do in Utrecht include:

• Dom Tower – Medieval church tower with panoramic views and archaeological ruins beneath which date back to 45 CE.
• The Old Canal – The city’s canal is a bit different than any others in the Netherlands. There are even shops on the lower half, parallel to the water level
• Museums – Museum Speelklok (music), Spoorwegmuseum (railway) and Nijntje Museum (children’s) are some of Utrecht’s most notable museums.
• Pandhof van de Dom – A peaceful and pristinely preserved garden square in a Gothic style building.
• Castles – Both Kasteel de Haar and Zuylen Castle are marvellous medieval style palaces now open as museums and for public tours.

How to Get to Utrecht From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 36 km (22 miles)

Train Travel Time: Under 30 minutes with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

2. Haarlem

Once an important trading post, Haarlem is now most notable for its charm. Cobbled streets and endless amounts of curb appeal fill this lively capital of the North Holland province. As far as weekend trips from Amsterdam go, Haarlem is a very photogenic destination to spend a couple of days in. Some of the best things to do in Haarlem include:

• Museums – Frans Hals Museum (portrait painter), Teylers Museum (art and science), Ten Boom Museum (Former Jewish shelter during WWII)
• Town Hall Haarlem and Grote Markt – A medieval town hall and vibrant town square in the old town neighbourhood of the city.
• Windmill De Adriaan – The riverfront windmill is a distinct piece of Haarlem’s cityscape and dates back to the 18th-century.
• Visit Jopen Brewery – As one of the most established beer breweries in all of the Netherlands, it’s surely a staple in Haarlem. The history of Jopen goes way back to the early 1400s.

How to Get to Haarlem From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 18 km (11 miles)

Train Travel Time: 45 minutes with one transfer

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

3. Alkmaar

Known as the cheese capital of the Netherlands, who wouldn’t want to spend a weekend here? It is one of the oldest Dutch villages with history tracing back to the 10th-century. Although very close in proximity, Alkmaar is often overlooked as a weekend or day trip from Amsterdam. Some of the best things to do in Alkmaar include:

• Cheese – From the cheese museum to countless cheese shops, the city’s proud craft does not go unnoticed.
• Beer Museum – What goes well with Dutch cheese? Beer!
• Grote or Sint-Laurenskerk – A protestant church in the centre of town which was magnificently reconstructed after WWII.
• Canal Promenade – Walk along the delightful canal pathway of Stadswandeling Alkmaar.

How to Get to Alkmaar From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 30 km (16 miles)

Train Travel Time: 37 minutes with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

4. Edam & Volendam

You don’t have to venture far from Amsterdam to reach the towns of Edam and Volendam. Both are great introductions to the beautiful Netherlands countryside. Still, visiting Edam is one of the most underrated weekend trips from Amsterdam since there is no train station.

Situated on small lakes within a wetland, it’s not a particularly dry place but leaves much to be enjoyed by any traveller. Whether you visit for the seafood or cheese, you won’t be disappointed. Some of the best things to do in Edam & Volendam include:

• Marken – The tiny village with a long history of fishing sits on an island in the middle of the Gouwzee and Markermeer lake. It is connected to the mainland only by one narrow bridge or by ferry from Volendam. It’s unquestionably one of the most unique places to visit and experience while in the Netherlands.
• Volendam Museum – The best place to learn about local heritage, culture and history.
• Waterfront Dining – Enjoy a delicious meal at De Lunch with their delectable seafood and prime harbour location.
• Fort bij Edam – Ruins of a historic military fortress, still surrounded by a medieval style moat.
• Edam Cheese Market – For all things edam including a wide range of cheese selections, tastings and treats to bring home.

How to Get to Edam & Volendam From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 18 km (11 miles)

Travel Time: 30 minutes by car or bus. It is not possible to reach Edam or Volendam by train.

Transportation Schedule & Tickets: Bus line 314 departs Amsterdam (station Prins Hendrikkade) multiple times per hour and arrives in Edam in less than 30 minutes. A ticket can be purchased onboard the bus for less than €5.

5. The Hague

Also known as Den Haag, it is the Netherland’s third largest city. More famously, it is the location of the U.N.’s International Court of Justice. Is also the country’s only major city with a nearby coastline which happens to be one of its top attractions. Some of the best things to do in The Hague include:

• Peace Palace – A Renaissance-style building with gardens, visitor tours and a judicial court.
• Mauritshuis Museum – Features Dutch artwork with collections from Rembrandt and Vermeer.
• Huis ten Bosch – You’ll only be able to catch a glimpse from afar but this is the official residence of the Dutch royal family.
• Het Plein – Town square used for local events, festivals, outdoor restaurant seating and markets.
• Madurodam – Theme park centred around miniature figures and models of typical Dutch life.
• De Pier in Scheveningen – The sprawling coastal area includes a promenade, ferris wheel, rides, snack kiosks and all things perfect for a sunny day.

How to Get to The Hague From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 53 km (33 miles)

Train Travel Time: Just under one hour with one transfer

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

6. Delft

Sandwiched between two major Dutch cities, Delft is neither here nor there. It is a wondrous small town of its own with a unique and welcoming feel. Canals run through the streets which are lined with trendy bars, cafes and niche storefronts. Delft is unquestionably one of the most magical weekend trips from Amsterdam. Some of the best things to do in Delft include:

• Vermeer Centrum Delft – A museum dedicated to the works of Johannes Vermeer, a famous Dutch painter.
• Stadhuis Delft, and Nieuwe Church (Nieuwe Kerk) – The protestant church is most known as the home to the tomb of William of Orange. Between the church and the lovely town hall of Stadhuis Delft, sits the large town square of Cameretten.
• The Smallest House – Visit the smallest house of Delft which is still aesthetically pleasing as ever.
• Street Art – Many hidden splashes of street art occupy the walls of Delft. From pop art, to birds and flowers, the artwork brings the town’s buildings to life.

How to Get to Delft From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 55 km (35 miles)

Train Travel Time: One hour with a direct route. Non direct routes take just over one hour and include one transfer.

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

7. Rotterdam

Aside from being the biggest port in Europe, Rotterdam packs a punch with its dynamic culture, modern architecture and fantastic food scene. It is the most distinctly individual city in the Netherlands when compared to other towns and prominent cities. This makes it one of the best weekend trips from Amsterdam because the two cities are just so different! Some of the best things to do in Rotterdam include:

• Markthal Rotterdam – An indoor food hall bursting with every type of cuisine you can dream of.
• Market Binnenrotte – Open on Tuesdays and Saturdays, this is one of the largest outdoor markets we’ve come across in Europe. EVERYTHING can be found here from antique furniture, fresh fruit to fried seafood.
• Miniworld Rotterdam – A museum with intricate displays featuring miniature models of Rotterdam.
• Het Park – Equipped with English style gardens, lush picnic lawns and outdoor restaurants.
• Kinderdijk – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a short ways from Rotterdam and definitely worth a visit. Viewing the historic windmills is free but it’s also possible to pay an admission to enter certain ones.

How to Get to Rotterdam From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 58 km (36 miles)

Train Travel Time: 40 minutes with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

8. Arnhem

The green city of Arnhem is one of the best hidden gems of the Netherlands and rarely included on itineraries for weekend trips from Amsterdam. Arnhem and its surrounding area is a nature haven with endless amounts of parks, zoos and preserves. The amount of open-air places to visit and see is truly astounding! Some of the best things to do in Arnhem include:

• Nationaal Park Veluwezoom – The country’s oldest national park ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing and bike rides.
• Nederlands Openluchtmuseum – The Netherlands Open Air Museum is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands that’s outdoors. Along with exhibits surrounding local culture, heritage and history, it’s simply a gorgeous place to relish in Dutch nature.
• 7straatjes – This popular shopping street is found in Arnhem’s city centre and is far less crowded than the ones you find in Amsterdam. The area is equally as picturesque and quintessential Dutch, just without the bigger crowds.
• Airborne Museum at the Bridge – For war history fans, a visit to this museum is an absolute gem. 

How to Get to Arnhem From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 82 km (51 miles)

Train Travel Time: One hour with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

9. Giethoorn & Steenwijk

The journey to Giethoorn is somewhat lengthy for a domestic weekend getaway from Amsterdam which is why it’s worth spending at least one night there. A cruise through Giethoorn is the primary reason for visiting but nearby, you’ll find a handful of other places to visit. Some of the best things to do near Giethoorn & Steenwijk include:

• De Weerribben-Wieden National Park – The official nature preserve of Giethoorn which is comprised of a lowland landscape, small lakes and multiple connecting waterways.
• Markt Steenwijk – The main town square in Steenwijk where frequent events are held. On a regular basis, you’ll come across food vendors selling smoked fish and cheese here.
• Hildo Krop Museum – A museum featuring art work from the Dutch sculptor.
• The City of Zwolle – An underrated smaller city with a meticulously preserved medieval centre in addition to modern shops and commercial centres.

How to Get to Giethoorn From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 119 km (73 miles)

Travel Time: 1.5 hour train ride from Amsterdam to Steenwijk. From Steenwijk to Giethoorn, it is a 15 minute bus ride (bus line 70 or 270). It is not possible to reach Giethoorn directly by train. By car, the entire journey is 1.5 hours long.

Transportation Schedule & Tickets: Train tickets to Steenwijk cost €27 (one-way). A bus ticket to Giethoorn from Steenwijk costs less than €2. All legs of this journey run multiple times per hour.

10. Zaanse Schans

Since Zaanse Schans is so close to Amsterdam, it may make the most sense to head there for a day trip from Amsterdam instead. If you do have the time, there are additional places to visit around the area but you can also take it slow while exploring Zaanse Schans. Some of the best things to do in Zaanse Schans include:

• Windmills – Situated on the east side of the river, these are the most fairytale like windmills in all of the Netherlands. Seeing windmills is arguably the most required itinerary item when travelling to Amsterdam.
• Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans – It may seem kitschy but this attraction is still family operated and guarantees authenticity. You can participate in a shoemaking workshop or visit the museum.
• Zaans Museum – Although close to Amsterdam, Zaans is a completely different world and a visit to the Zaans Museum will help you understand the area’s unique past and heritage.
• Cheese Farm – “Catharina Hoeve” is a traditional cheese making farm from the 17th-century which is still on site and open for shopping and tastings.

How to Get to Zaanse Schans From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 12 km (8 miles)

Train Travel Time: 17 minutes with a direct route to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

11. Eindhoven

Eindhoven is known as the city of light but not exactly for the reason you may think. It is the headquarters of Philips who brought the light bulb to life over 100 years ago. The 5th largest city in the Netherlands is innovative, modern and the perfect lowkey weekend trip from Amsterdam. Some of the best things to do in Eindhoven include:

• Philips Museum – A deep dive into the history of Philips and the ideal attraction for anyone interested in product development, communications and tech.
• DAF Museum – One of the best things to do in Eindhoven for children and any auto enthusiasts.
• PreHistorisch Dorp – Some of the best fun in Eindhoven for the entire family! This theme park showcases historic life with props, sets, tools and clothing.

How to Get to Eindhoven From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 111 km (69 miles)

Train Travel Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs multiple times per hour): Buy Here

12. Düsseldorf (Germany)

The German city of Düsseldorf sits on the Rhine River and is a surprisingly upbeat and colourful destination. Upon visiting, it was certainly not what we expected it to be! Known for art and fashion, design flows over into every corner of Düsseldorf, making it an exciting place to visit for a weekend. Some of the best things to do in Düsseldorf include:

• Rheinpromenade – A well maintained walkway along the Rhine and also the best place to view the significant Rhine Tower.
• Hofgarten – The city’s main park comprised of flower gardens, picnic meadows, ponds and number of historical monuments.
• Schloss Benrath – This extravagant palace dates back to the 1700s and still boasts original interior features. It is without a doubt one of the most prominent landmarks in Düsseldorf.

How to Get to Düsseldorf From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 181 km (113 miles)

Train Travel Time: Just over 3 hours with one or two transfers

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs twice per hour): Buy Here

13. Antwerp (Belgium)

Antwerp is one of the most overlooked destinations for history. The city is drenched in a rich and diverse heritage, even being one of the most wealthiest cities in the world at one point in time. After a few tragedies which reshaped the city, Antwerp has much to be discovered. Some of the best things to do in Antwerp include:

• Museum aan de Stroom – A striking building and even more interesting high tech museum. There is also a panoramic view on the top floors.
• Het Steen – This medieval fortress still stands strong on the riverfront and is one of the city’s oldest structures.
• Plantin-Moretus Museum – Set in a former residential mansion, this museum features antique furniture, prints, literature and a stunning garden courtyard.
• Sint-Annatunnel – An underground passageway which runs across the Scheldt river. As. a bonus, it’s accessible by a historic and wooden escalator from the 1930s.
• Chocolate Nation – Belgium is known for chocolate and a visit to this museum is sure to be as delicious as it is educational.

How to Get to Antwerp From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 133 km (82 miles)

Train Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs twice times per hour): Buy Here

14. Paris (France)

You’ve likely heard the saying but it’s true, Paris is never a bad idea. The thought of being able to experience an additional iconic European city with a weekend trip from Amsterdam is purely amazing. Although you never need specific reasons to visit Paris, below are some of the best things to do in Paris.

• Eiffel Tower – If you do not wish to go up, you must see the tower from Grand Palais Éphémère or the park directly below.
• Luxembourg Gardens – The most picture perfect garden landscape with numerous flowers, fountains and idyllic pathways for a stroll.
• Arc de Triomphe – There are a few miniature versions of this arch around the world but none compare to the original.
• Palais Garnier Opera House – An iconic and remarkable landmark to the city which happens to depict the very feel of Paris quite accurately.

How to Get to Paris From Amsterdam

Distance from Amsterdam: 431 km (268 miles)

Train Travel Time: Just under 4 hours with a direct route

Transportation Schedule & Tickets (train runs 2-3 times per day): Buy Here

How to Take Weekend Trips From Amsterdam

There are a few sure ways to accomplish weekend trips from Amsterdam aside from using your own car. The best mode of transportation will ultimately depend on your own schedule, budget and level of comfort.

By Train

Getting around by train is affordable and the most environmentally responsible way to travel. Taking a train is incredibly easy to do, even for beginners and first time visitors.

Reaching nearly all of the places in this guide is doable by train alone and furthermore, with a direct train.

If you are particularly visiting from outside of Europe, it can be intimidating at first to hop on a train but you’ll quickly realise that it is simply the superior way to travel throughout any European country.

Guided Tours

If you wish to opt out of self guided weekend trips from Amsterdam, joining a guided excursion is the next best thing.

Fully guided tour packages will often include transportation which takes care of having to worry about which train, tram or bus to take. Furthermore, tour bundles can sometimes be more cost effective since you’re joining a group of people (which equals discounted prices at attractions).

With a Rental Car

For those who prefer to explore new places on their own time and schedule, renting a car in Amsterdam is the ideal solution. By driving, you’re able to stop at additional sites along the way to your destination and not follow someone else’s itinerary.

A small rental car for a weekend trip from Amsterdam can cost as low as €85. A mini Netherlands road trip also allows you to fit in multiple destinations into one weekend.

Travel Tips for Planning Weekend Trips from Amsterdam

Have a Realistic Timeline

Although many of the perfect weekend trips are under one hour away, it’s important to decide if you’re planning an overnight trip from Amsterdam or merely a day trip. It’s helpful to stay mindful of how much time you’ll realistically spend travelling and exploring.

This includes getting from and to the train station, getting settled into a hotel and enough time to properly explore the destination. By keeping your itinerary manageable, you won’t stress out over an overpacked agenda. 

Plan in Advance

We’re all for impulse adventures but only when the situation allows for possible error. If you are working with a tight schedule or detailed itinerary, do not wait to plan and book your weekend trip(s) from Amsterdam ahead of time.

By leaving it to the last minute, you risk sold out trains, museums, attractions and booked up hotels. Since Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, its surrounding sites are equally as frequented.

Booking Train Tickets From Amsterdam

Since the Netherlands’ train system is so polished, purchasing tickets online is unsurprisingly a very smooth process.

First, you’ll want to be aware that you’re choosing train journeys which depart from Amsterdam Centraal Station, located in the city center. There are multiple train stations in Amsterdam but departing from Amsterdam Centraal is the most convenient for tourists.

There are a few different options when purchasing train tickets from Amsterdam online. For many weekend trip destinations within the Netherlands, trains are operated by NS International.

To purchase tickets directly from NS, you can do so on their website. To view alternative methods of transportation, the actual routes and shop for prices, Omio is the best resource.

If you’re thinking about weekend trips from Amsterdam to a different country, utilizing Trainline is highly recommended. Trainline provides access to train system data from all European countries and is the ideal tool for travel among different EU states.

Documents & Requirements

When travelling to a Dutch location for a weekend trip from Amsterdam, you technically do not need your passport in order to be able to travel. However, you should undoubtedly still carry it with you.

Although you are travelling within the same country you arrived in, there is the possibility of passport control at hotels, train stations or random checkpoints. Aside from your passport, there are no additional requirements for taking a weekend trip from Amsterdam.

Getaway destinations mentioned in this travel guide are all within the Schengen Area. The Schengen zone consists of most European countries and allows free movement among state lines. In short, there is no border control.

As long as you have your passport, there are no further documents needed to travel to France or Belgium from the Netherlands. Although there is no official control at country borders, it is not completely uncommon to run into random surveillance stops at places like train stations.

Always stay prepared with your passport on hand and any pertinent visa information (only if applicable).

Related Travel Posts:

• How to Spend 2 Days in Amsterdam
• A Netherlands Road Trip Guide
• Things to Know Before Visiting the Netherlands
• How to Be a Traveller and Not a Tourist

Travel Resources for Amsterdam Day Trips

☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage

✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com

🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com

🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio

🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries

🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago

☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo

📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator