The Netherlands is a country of breathtaking landscapes, picturesque canals, and iconic windmills. It is also a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and a fascinating history. There are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful country, and day trips are the perfect way to explore the Netherlands in all its glory. In this article, we’ll explore the 3 best day trips in the Netherlands.
The Hague and Scheveningen Beach
The Hague, the third-largest city in the Netherlands, is a perfect day trip destination. It is home to the Dutch parliament, numerous museums, and art galleries, and the beautiful Peace Palace. The Peace Palace is an iconic landmark that houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
Scheveningen Beach, located in The Hague, is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach that offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and fun. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the promenade, try some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants, or indulge in some water sports like windsurfing, kiteboarding, and beach volleyball.
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Keukenhof Gardens and Tulip Fields
The Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Netherlands in spring. This stunning garden is the largest flower garden in the world, and it is home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers.
The garden is open from mid-March to mid-May, and visitors can stroll through the beautiful flower beds, take a boat ride on the canals, or enjoy some live music and performances.
The nearby tulip fields are another must-see attraction. These fields stretch for miles, and visitors can take a bike tour or a hot air balloon ride to admire the colorful blooms from above.
Zaanse Schans Windmills and Volendam Fishing Village
The Zaanse Schans Windmills and Volendam Fishing Village are two of the most picturesque destinations in the Netherlands. Zaanse Schans is a historic windmill village that features a collection of 18th and 19th-century windmills, houses, and museums. Visitors can watch traditional crafts like clog-making, cheese-making, and barrel-making, and learn about the history of the Dutch windmills.
Volendam, located just a few kilometers from Zaanse Schans, is a charming fishing village that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Dutch way of life. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets lined with colorful houses, watch the fishing boats sail in and out of the harbor, and try some fresh seafood at one of the village’s many restaurants.
Conclusion
The Netherlands is a beautiful country with plenty of things to see and do. These 3 day trips are just a small sample of what this country has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s something for everyone in the Netherlands.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?
- The best time to visit the Netherlands is in spring (April-May) when the tulips are in full bloom.
- Do I need a visa to visit the Netherlands?
- It depends on your nationality. Check with the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country.
- How do I get to these day trip destinations?
- The Hague and Scheveningen Beach are easily accessible by train from Amsterdam and other major cities. Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields are located in Lisse, which can be reached by bus or car. Zaanse Schans and Volendam can be reached by train or bus from Amsterdam and other cities.
- How much time do I need for each day trip?
- The Hague and Scheveningen Beach can be visited in a day, but it’s recommended to spend at least half a day at each destination. Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields can be visited in a half-day, but it’s recommended to spend a full day to fully enjoy the gardens and the surrounding area. Zaanse Schans and Volendam can also be visited in a half-day, but it’s recommended to spend a full day to explore the area and enjoy the traditional Dutch culture.
- Are these day trips suitable for children?
- Yes, all of these day trips are suitable for children. The Hague and Scheveningen Beach offer plenty of activities for children, including playgrounds and amusement parks. Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields offer children’s activities, such as a petting zoo and a treasure hunt. Zaanse Schans and Volendam offer opportunities for children to learn about traditional crafts and culture.