Amsterdam North Holland, The Netherlands Travel Guide
Amsterdam is a place for many travelers. For coastal relaxation, Zandvoort aan Zee and Bloemendaal aan Zee are a 10-15 minute train or bus ride away. These popular North Sea beaches feature wide sandy shores, beach clubs, and water sports in warmer months.
Leiden, a historic university city, is a 30-minute train ride. It has charming canals, picturesque alleyways, and interesting museums, including the National Museum of Antiquities and Corpus (a museum that takes you through the human body).
The Dutch railway network (NS) is reliable and frequent, making independent travel very straightforward.
All listed destinations are reachable by direct train from Haarlem Central Station.
Independent travel is recommended for most destinations in the Netherlands.
Beyond Haarlem's city limits, discover stunning natural landscapes.
National Park Zuid-Kennemerland: Accessible by bus or cycling, this vast dune and forest area has opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen: South of Zandvoort, a large dune reserve also functioning as a drinking water source. An area for walking, with free entry and wildlife spotting.
Bulb Fields (Bollenstreek): Located south of Haarlem, towards Lisse. Cycling paths through colorful landscapes are available.
Mid-April to the Start of may is the high season for tulip fields.
The beaches of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal (see above) have seaside charm.
Explore historical sites and traditional villages outside Haarlem.
Approximately 1 hour by train/bus. An open-air institution with iconic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and workshops.
Roughly 60 minutes by train via Leiden. Famous for distinctive Delftware pottery and a picturesque historic city center.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by train. Known for its famous cheese market and impressive historic city center.
Beyond the famous bulb fields, visit smaller villages for charming countryside scenery.
Rural areas beyond the main cities offer a quieter glimpse of Dutch rural life and agriculture.
Witness various traditional Dutch crafts and workshops in dedicated heritage sites.
Explore seasonal markets in smaller towns for local produce and goods.
Sample unique food products and regional delicacies during your visits.
Consider extending your trip to explore more of the Netherlands or neighboring countries.
Add 2-3 days for Amsterdam. This allows you to explore its major museums, canals, and nightlife without rushing.
Factor IN 1 day for a combined trip to The Hague and Delft, seeing each of their political and artistic sides.
Add 1 day for a trip to Rotterdam and the Kinderdijk windmills (an UNESCO World Heritage site).
This route lets you see the diversity of the western Netherlands, with easy train connections between cities.
For longer stays, include more time for specific interests like extensive cycling in the dunes or culinary exploration.
Consider attending a local festival if your dates align with events for an unique cultural experience.
