Places To Visit Near Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a unique and beautiful city, known for its fascinating history, vibrant culture, and charming canals. Located in the Netherlands, Amsterdam has been a major port city since the 12th century, and it has grown and evolved over the centuries, becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Amsterdam is a city of contrasts, where traditional Dutch architecture meets modern art and design, and where tranquil canals are filled with buzzing houseboats. With its amazing museums, lively markets, and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam is a great destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.

But Amsterdam is only one part of the amazing Netherlands. The country is filled with interesting historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of attractions. If you are looking to explore the area around Amsterdam, here are some of the best places to visit near this amazing city.

The Hague

The Hague (also known as Den Haag) is the third largest city in the Netherlands, located just an hour’s drive from Amsterdam. The Hague is the seat of government, home to the Dutch royal family, and the International Court of Justice. It is also a cultural center, with many museums, art galleries, and theaters. One of the most popular attractions in The Hague is the Binnenhof, the complex of buildings that serves as the home of the Dutch parliament. The Binnenhof dates back to the 13th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds.

The Hague is also known for its picturesque streets and canals. The city center is filled with historic buildings, churches, and museums. The city is also home to several excellent beaches, making it a great destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.

Utrecht

Utrecht is located just an hour away from Amsterdam, and it’s a great option if you are looking to explore the Dutch countryside. Utrecht is a city rich in history, with many preserved medieval buildings and monuments. One of the most popular attractions in Utrecht is the Dom Tower, which was built in the 14th century and is now the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Utrecht also has many interesting museums and galleries, including one dedicated to Vincent van Gogh.

Aside from its historical attractions, Utrecht is also known for its beautiful canals and gardens. The city center is filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars. Utrecht also has several parks, making it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is located just over an hour from Amsterdam, and it’s a great destination for anyone looking for an urban adventure. Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture. The city center is filled with skyscrapers and high-tech buildings, as well as plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Rotterdam is also home to some of the best museums in the Netherlands, including the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which houses one of the largest art collections in Europe.

Rotterdam also has plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. The city is surrounded by water, making it a great spot for sailing and other water sports. Rotterdam also has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of clubs and bars to explore.

Haarlem

Haarlem is located just 25 minutes away from Amsterdam, making it a great option for a day trip from the city. Haarlem is a beautiful city filled with old buildings and monuments, cobbled streets, and charming canals. Haarlem is home to many interesting museums and galleries, including the Frans Hals Museum which houses some of the best works of the Dutch Golden Age. Haarlem also has beautiful parks, such as het Spaarne which runs along the banks of a canal. Haarlem also has plenty of cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars to explore.

Volendam

Volendam is located just an hour away from Amsterdam, and it’s a great destination if you are looking to explore a traditional Dutch fishing village. Volendam is known for its picturesque harbor filled with colorful boats and fishermen selling their catch. Visitors can take a boat tour of Volendam’s harbor or take a stroll along the waterfront to explore its quaint shops and restaurants. Volendam also has several ancient churches worth visiting, as well as plenty of cafes and bars to explore.

Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof Gardens are located just outside Amsterdam, making them a great destination for a day trip from the city. Keukenhof Gardens are one of the largest flower gardens in Europe, covering an area of 32 hectares (80 acres). The gardens are filled with colorful tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers that bloom throughout spring. Visitors can take guided tours of the gardens or explore them on their own. Keukenhof Gardens are also home to several sculptures, monuments, and an old Dutch windmill which can be explored during a visit to the gardens.

Popular Tours

If you’re looking for an interesting way to explore Amsterdam or discover some of its hidden gems, taking a tour with a local expert can be a great option. Here are two popular tours that you can book online:

Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tour

Experience Amsterdam’s famous canals from a different perspective with this canal cruise tour. You will have the chance to see some of Amsterdam’s most iconic sights from the water such as Anne Frank House and the Skinny Bridge while listening to stories about the city’s history from your guide. The tour will also take you through some of Amsterdam’s lesser-known canals where you will get to explore hidden gems such as houseboats and art galleries that you may not have had the chance to discover on your own. You will be able to take in stunning views of Amsterdam’s skyline while cruising through its canals on this memorable tour. Book an Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tour here.

Amsterdam Coffee Shop Tour

If you’re looking for something more unique than your typical sightseeing tour, then this coffee shop tour could be perfect for you. This tour will take you on an exploration through some of Amsterdam’s most iconic coffee shops where you will learn about their history and culture as well as sample some of their products. Your guide will share stories about Amsterdam’s counterculture as you visit multiple coffee shops throughout this tour, giving you a unique insight into this vibrant city. You will also have plenty of time to ask questions about Amsterdam’s coffee shop culture from your guide throughout this tour. Book an Amsterdam Coffee Shop Tour here.