Netherlands 5 Day Itinerary

Netherlands 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Amsterdam

Morning

  • Arrive at Schiphol Airport and take a train or bus to Amsterdam city center ( approx. 20-30 minutes)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Anne Frank House (book tickets in advance) to learn about the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming Jordaan neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, quaint shops, and picturesque canals
  • Stop by the Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam’s historic center, and visit the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)

Evening

  • Enjoy a scenic canal boat tour to see Amsterdam’s iconic architecture and bridges
  • Try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as stamppot or herring, at a local restaurant

Things to Know

  • The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, so you may need a visa depending on your nationality. Check the Dutch government’s website for more information.
  • Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city, but be careful when walking or driving as cyclists have priority.

Day 2: Haarlem and Zandvoort

Morning

  • Take a train to Haarlem ( approx. 20 minutes), a picturesque town known for its flower market and Frans Hals Museum
  • Visit the Grote Markt, the main square, and admire the beautiful St. Bavo’s Church

Afternoon

  • Head to Zandvoort, a popular beach town ( approx. 30 minutes by train)
  • Relax on the beach or try your hand at water sports like surfing or kitesurfing

Evening

  • Return to Amsterdam and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
  • Explore the city’s nightlife, such as the famous Red Light District or a bar in the Leidseplein area

Day 3: Utrecht

Morning

  • Take a train to Utrecht ( approx. 30 minutes), a charming university town with a rich history
  • Visit the Dom Tower, a medieval bell tower with great city views

Afternoon

  • Explore the Wharf cellars, a unique area with old warehouses and canalside cafes
  • Visit the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and example of De Stijl architecture

Evening

  • Return to Amsterdam and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
  • Take in a show or concert at the Melkweg cultural center

Day 4: The Hague

Morning

  • Take a train to The Hague ( approx. 50 minutes), the Netherlands’ seat of government
  • Visit the Binnenhof, a complex of buildings that house the Dutch parliament and government

Afternoon

  • Explore the Mauritshuis, a museum featuring works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and other Dutch Masters
  • Visit the Peace Palace, an international court of justice and symbol of peace

Evening

  • Return to Amsterdam and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
  • Take a stroll through the Vondelpark, a beautiful urban park with gardens and lakes

Day 5: Keukenhof and Amsterdam

Morning

  • Visit Keukenhof Gardens (open from mid-March to mid-May), one of the world’s largest flower gardens
  • Marvel at the vibrant tulips, daffodils, and other flowers on display

Afternoon

  • Return to Amsterdam and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the EYE Film Museum, a unique museum dedicated to film and cinematography

Transportation

  • The Netherlands has an efficient public transportation system, with trains, buses, and trams connecting major cities.
  • Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable card that can be used on most public transport.

Other Tips and Recommendations

  • Try some traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels or poffertjes
  • Be prepared for variable weather and pack accordingly
  • Don’t forget to try some of the Netherlands’ famous cheese, such as Gouda or Edam!