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Day Trips from Amsterdam

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    1

    Zaanse Schans windmill by the water at sunset in the Netherlands.

    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours

    Imagine windmills spinning, cheese tasting like heaven, and watching a clog-maker turn wood into shoes—Zaanse Schans has it all! This open-air museum lets you walk through Dutch history, with stunning canals and cozy green houses all around. It’s like stepping back in time, but with better snacks!
    from € 16.88

    2

    Windmills along a canal in Zaanse Schans, Netherlands, part of Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans tours.

    Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans Tours

    The villages of Zaanse Schans are famous for their wooden windmills and with these tickets, you get a chance to explore amidst pretty pastures and the pleasant countryside.
    from € 16.88

    3

    Woman with bicycle in a tulip field near Amsterdam.

    Day Trips From Amsterdam

    Dive into this collection and unveil the treasures lying just a stone's throw away from Amsterdam. Whether you're captivated by the charm of picturesque villages or the allure of nature's beauty, there's a day trip waiting just for you. Don't miss out on these unforgettable experiences – book your tickets now and set out on an adventure beyond the city!
    from € 17.50

    4

    Boats docked at Volendam harbor with traditional Dutch houses in the background.

    Amsterdam To Volendam Tours

    Explore the fishing village of Volendam and hear about this bustling from your guide
    from € 67

    5

    Boat tour through Giethoorn canals, Amsterdam to Giethoorn tours.

    Amsterdam To Giethoorn Tours

    The charming village of Giethoorn, known as the "Venice of the North," awaits your visit with our guided boat tour from Amsterdam. Explore its picturesque waterways and unique charm with our ticket. Book your experience today to experience the beauty of Giethoorn.
    from € 52.20

    6

    Boating through Giethoorn canal with thatched houses and lush greenery, Giethoorn, Netherlands.

    Giethoorn Day Trips

    Visit Giethoorn, the "Venice of the Netherlands," a charming car-free village defined by its serene canals and picturesque bridges. Experience its beauty on a cruise, either on a self-driven electric "whisper boat" for independent exploration or a guided punter boat for a relaxed, informative tour.
    from € 52.20

    7

    Cheese wheels aging on shelves at Zaanse Schans, Netherlands.

    Volendam Cheese Factory Tours

    Participate in the craft of cheese production in the idyllic setting of Volendam, a picturesque Dutch fishing village. Our tours at the Volendam Cheese Factory unveil the technicalities of creating delectable Dutch cheeses with ease.
    from € 26.10

    Top experiences in Amsterdam

    12 experiences

    Free cancellation
    Windmills at Zaanse Schans with blooming lavender fields in the foreground.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Edam and Marken Guided Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    from €29
    €26.10
    10% off
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Edam and Marken Guided Tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 147 ratings.From €26.10
    Free cancellation
    Aerial view of Zaanse Schans windmills by the river near Amsterdam.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Guided Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    from €37.50
    €31.88
    15% off
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Guided Tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 961 ratings.From €31.88
    Free cancellation
    Guests on a boat ride through Giethoorn's canals, passing a traditional Dutch house and wooden bridge.
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip with Boat Ride & Walking Tour
    Giethoorn Day Trips
    from €58
    €52.20
    10% off
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip with Boat Ride & Walking Tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 25 ratings.From €52.20
    Free cancellation
    Tourist photographing Dutch windmill at Zaanse Schans Village, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Self-Guided Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    from €22.50
    €16.88
    25% off
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Self-Guided Tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 964 ratings.From €16.88
    Free cancellation
    Efteling castle exterior with ornate towers and lush greenery in Amsterdam.
    From Amsterdam: Full-Day Private Trip to Efteling
    Efteling Theme Park Tickets
    €284

    Price varies by group size

    From Amsterdam: Full-Day Private Trip to Efteling. Rated 0 out of 5 from 0 ratings.From €284
    Free cancellation
    Windmills at Zaanse Schans by the water in the Netherlands.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Guided Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    from €29
    €26.10
    10% off
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Guided Tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 41 ratings.From €26.10
    Free cancellation
    Guests posing at Zaanse Schans windmills, photographed by a guide.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Volendam Guided Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    from €39
    €29.49
    24% off
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Volendam Guided Tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 41 ratings.From €29.49
    Free cancellation
    Tour guide explaining to a group in Amsterdam street during Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken tour.
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans Windmills Tour in Spanish
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    €25
    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans Windmills Tour in Spanish. Rated 5 out of 5 from 1 ratings.From €25
    Free cancellation
    Windmills at Zaanse Schans near Amsterdam with people on a dock.
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    €138
    From Amsterdam: Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 798 ratings.From €138
    Free cancellation
    Historic buildings along a canal in Bruges with the Belfry tower in the background.
    From Amsterdam: Full-Day Bruges Guided Tour
    Tours
    €69
    From Amsterdam: Full-Day Bruges Guided Tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 743 ratings.From €69
    Free cancellation
    Volendam harbor with traditional Dutch houses and fishing boats.
    From Amsterdam: Volendam Harbour & Cheese Farm Tour
    Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
    €25
    €17.50
    30% off
    From Amsterdam: Volendam Harbour & Cheese Farm Tour. Rated 0 out of 5 from 0 ratings.From €17.50
    Free cancellation
    Visitors posing with giant clogs at Zaanse Schans Windmill Village near Amsterdam.
    Day Trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam with Round-Trip Transfers
    Tours
    €22.50
    Day Trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam with Round-Trip Transfers. Rated 5 out of 5 from 1 ratings.From €22.50

    Just outside Amsterdam lie windmill villages, modern harbour cities, tulip fields, and storybook canals. Popular picks include Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Giethoorn, and Rotterdam, all offering quick travel times and diverse experiences. This guide will help you choose the best day trips from Amsterdam for you.

    Amsterdam’s top day trips at a glance

    Just skimming? Here are the best day trips from Amsterdam at a glance - the highlights, reasons, and why each is worth your time.

    Windmills at Zaanse Schans with blooming lavender fields in the foreground.

    Zaanse Schans

    Distance from Amsterdam: ~12 miles / 20–25 minutes

    Why visit: A classic Dutch village with historic windmills, wooden houses, and craft workshops showcasing traditional culture.

    Highlights: Windmills, clog workshops, cheese tasting, riverside views.

    Best for: Culture lovers, families, first-time visitors.

    Typical duration: 3 - 4 hours

    CTA:

    Explore Zaanse Schans day tours

    Volendam harbor with traditional boats and charming street cafes.

    Volendam & Marken

    Distance from Amsterdam: ~13 - 15 miles / 25 - 40 minutes

    Why visit: Charming fishing villages known for colourful houses, harbour views, and classic Dutch food traditions.

    Highlights: Harbour promenade, cheese farms, traditional houses, boat rides.

    Best for: Food lovers, photographers, culture enthusiasts.

    Typical duration: 4 - 5 hours

    CTA:

    View Volendam & Marken day tours

    Boating through Giethoorn canal with thatched houses and lush greenery, Giethoorn, Netherlands.

    Giethoorn

    Distance from Amsterdam: ~75 miles / 1.5  2 hours

    Why visit: A peaceful, car-free village with narrow canals, thatched houses, and boat rides through picturesque waterways.

    Highlights: Canal cruises, footbridges, lakes, scenic walking paths.

    Best for: Couples, families, slow travellers.

    Typical duration: 8 - 9 hours

    CTA:

    Discover Giethoorn tours

    Rotterdam Cube Houses with yellow and white geometric design under blue sky.

    Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague

    Distance from Amsterdam: ~55–65 miles / 1 - 1.5 hours

    Why visit: Combine modern architecture, historic pottery, and Dutch political landmarks in a single multi-stop trip.

    Highlights: Markthal, Cube Houses, Delft pottery, Peace Palace.

    Best for: City explorers, architecture fans, culture seekers.

    Typical duration: 9 - 10 hours

    CTA:

    Browse Rotterdam–Delft–The Hague tours

    Tulips blooming at Keukenhof Gardens with a windmill in the background, Amsterdam.

    Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal)

    Distance from Amsterdam: ~25 miles / 35 - 45 minutes

    Why visit: A world-famous spring tulip garden with millions of blooms spread across themed pavilions and landscaped fields.

    Highlights: Tulip fields, flower pavilions, walking trails, photography spots.

    Best for: Flower lovers, families, spring travellers.

    Typical duration: 4 - 5 hours

    CTA:

    See Keukenhof tours

    What to expect on a typical day trip

    Amsterdam Centraal station with canal boats in North Holland, Netherlands.

    Early morning departure

    Most tours leave between 8 - 9am from central Amsterdam locations like Centraal Station or A’DAM Tower.

    Passengers seated inside an AC coach bus for Nara and Kyoto One-Day Tour.

    Comfortable transportation

    Travel by coach, minivan, or ferry, depending on the itinerary. Expect air-conditioning, commentary, and organised logistics.

    Guests receiving wooden clogs at Zaanse Schans during a guided tour.

    Guided tour

    Destinations like Zaanse Schans and Volendam include guided walks explaining local crafts, history, and culture.

    Guests posing at Zaanse Schans windmills, photographed by a guide.

    Free time to explore

    Most tours allow time for strolling village streets, trying local food, or taking a scenic boat ride.

    Canal houses along Amsterdam's waterfront during an evening cruise.

    Return by evening

    Tours usually return between 4 - 7pm, giving you a relaxed finish to the day.

    Explore your tour options

    Person holding cheese wheel at Zaanse Schans with windmills in the background.

    Zaanse Schans

    Experience a traditional Dutch windmill village with preserved workshops, wooden houses, and river views. Guided tours explore historic windmills, artisanal crafts, and cheese-making demonstrations. Guests can wander the scenic pathways or visit working mills for an inside look.

    Distance: ~12 miles (20–25 minutes)

    Pro tip: Go early to avoid crowds at the popular windmill viewpoints.

    Recommended experiences:

    Tour boat docked at Marken with traditional Dutch house in the background.

    Volendam & Marken

    Venture to Amsterdam’s iconic fishing villages with colourful waterfronts, traditional houses, cheese farms, and boat connections. Expect guided walks, tastings, and time to explore harbour streets. Boat trips between Volendam and Marken give a classic Dutch countryside experience.

    Distance: ~13 - 15 miles (25 - 40 minutes)

    Pro tip: Try local specialities like smoked eel or fresh stroopwafels.

    Recommended experiences:

    Boat navigating canal under wooden bridge in Giethoorn, Netherlands, with vibrant flowers and greenery.

    Giethoorn

    Explore the idyllic “Venice of the Netherlands,” known for its tranquil canals, thatched cottages, and serene boat rides. Tours typically include a guided canal cruise plus free time to walk or dine in the peaceful village.

    Distance: ~75 miles (1.5–2 hours)

    Pro tip: Choose a weekday tour for quieter canals and better photo spots.

    Recommended experiences:

    Pottery at Royal Delft

    Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague

    See modern Rotterdam, historic Delft pottery studios, and political landmarks in The Hague in one efficient trip. Expect architectural highlights, heritage sites, and guided walking tours.

    Distance: ~55–65 miles (1–1.5 hours)

    Pro tip: Ideal for travellers interested in contrasting modern and historic Dutch cities.

    Recommended experiences:

    Red and yellow tulip fields at Keukenhof Gardens with visitors walking nearby.

    Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal)

    Visit the world’s largest flower garden during its spring bloom. Stroll through themed floral pavilions, tulip fields, and scenic trails with ample time for photos.

    Distance: ~25 miles (35–45 minutes)

    Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

    Recommended experiences:

    Best time to go on a day trip from Amsterdam

    Day trips from Amsterdam run year-round, but the best months are spring (April–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) for comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Summer offers long days but also peak tourism, especially in Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans. Winter is quieter, though some outdoor attractions may feel cold.

    Quick tips:

    • Best seasons: April–May & Sept–Oct
    • Avoid: Weekends in July–Aug due to crowds
    • Departure time: Before 9:00am recommended

    Seasonal notes: Keukenhof operates only mid-March to mid-May

    Frequently asked questions about day trips from Amsterdam

    • Between 3 to 10 hours, depending on the destination.

    • Guided tours with transfers are the simplest; public transport is available for most villages and cities.

    • Yes, popular tours like Giethoorn and Keukenhof often sell out.

    • They help with transport, timing, navigation, and deeper insights.

    • April–May and September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds.

    • Yes, many tours combine Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken.

    • Usually not, but free time allows you to eat locally.

    • Most tours include both guided portions and independent time.

    How Headout makes choosing experiences effortless

    We curate the best ways to experience

    We research and organise all unique experiences - from tickets to tours to special combos - so you get all the choices without the clutter.

    We partner with the best

    Every supplier is vetted for quality, reliability, and value so you only get top rated experiences. No surprises, no disappointments.

    All the best options, in one place

    Each experience is thoughtfully organised to give you maximum availability, great value and an easy way to choose.

    Book with complete peace of mind

    Free cancellations, Flexible payments, and 24/7 support - thoughtfully designed for flexibility, assurance, and total peace of mind.

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    We curate the best ways to experience
    We partner with the best
    All the best options, in one place
    Book with complete peace of mind
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    What our guests say

    Nazmiye Ç

    Turkey
    Family
    2 weeks ago

    +3 more

    I went there with my daugter and I realised that I didnt know anything what the young generation is interested. I really enjoyed every minute .

    Combo: Moco Museum Amsterdam + Keukenhof Tickets with Transfers from Amsterdam

    Jacquelinne G

    Chile
    Couple
    3 weeks ago

    +7 more

    Our guide Sara provided excellent information; the tour was very comprehensive and the sites were absolutely wonderful. It was an experience I would gladly repeat.

    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Guided Tour

    Mattis K

    Germany
    Family
    3 weeks ago
    *The Metamorphoses*, which we're currently studying in class. I found these exhibits very informative, even though we've already translated it in Latin class. Now I'll be able to surprise my teacher with this, and maybe he'll even incorporate it into his lessons.

    Combo: Rijksmuseum + Keukenhof Tickets with Transfers from Amsterdam

    Alperen D

    Turkey
    Solo
    May 2026
    The entrance was very helpful, and I really enjoyed touring the museum. The paintings in the museum were truly impressive.

    Combo: Rijksmuseum + Keukenhof Tickets with Transfers from Amsterdam

    Francesca S

    Italy
    Family
    3 weeks ago

    +1 more

    A well-organized tour with friendly staff and a comfortable bus. One note: the tickets should make it clear that you need to be at the meeting point 30 minutes before the scheduled time.

    Keukenhof Entry with Transfers from Amsterdam

    Edward F

    Canada
    Couple
    May 2026

    +2 more

    Keukenhof is one of those bucket list kinds of visits that you must do at least once. We are glad we did. The gardens were very beautiful, and full of flowers of many varieties and colours. There are some 7 million bulbs including over 800 varieties of tulips alone! Wear comfortable shoes and make sure your camera has plenty of room for photos. Also, on the way inside, get a free map to make sure you don't miss anything such as the special orchid exhibit we saw, or the historic English-style garden, or the little petting zoo. Have a great time. We did.

    Keukenhof Entry with Transfers from Amsterdam

    Guillermo S

    Argentina
    Couple
    3 weeks ago
    A visit to Heineken is a must for anyone visiting beautiful Amsterdam who loves good beer! Don't miss out on exploring this unmissable beer temple!

    Combo: Keukenhof + Heineken Experience Tickets with 2 Drinks

    Alessia A

    Couple
    May 2026

    +1 more

    The experience was fantastic! It was pretty easy to find the meeting point, and the staff were helpful and friendly. The bus driver also shared interesting facts along the way. The tasting was excellent, and the scenery was breathtaking.

    From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Guided Tour