Netherlands-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam

  • Arrival: Arrive at Schiphol Airport (AMS) or take a train from Brussels, Paris, or London
  • Accommodation: Check-in to your hotel or hostel in the city centre
  • Places to go:
    • Rijksmuseum (open daily 9am-5pm, tickets €19)
    • Anne Frank House (open daily 9am-7pm, tickets €12.50)
    • Jordaan neighbourhood for shopping and dining
  • Things to know:
    • Amsterdam is a bike-friendly city; consider renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour
    • Be mindful of the city’s strict cycling rules and pedestrian zones
    • Try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as stamppot or herring
  • Transportation: Use public transport (tram 2 or 5) or walk to get around the city

Day 2: Amsterdam

  • 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Visit the famous Vondelpark for a leisurely stroll
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Explore the Van Gogh Museum (open daily 9am-5pm, tickets €19)
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local café and visit the bustling Albert Cuyp Market for some shopping
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Visit the Heineken Experience (open daily 10am-8pm, tickets €20) or explore the trendy De Pijp neighbourhood
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t try to navigate Amsterdam’s streets without a map; get familiar with the city’s layout
    • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions
    • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas

Day 3: Haarlem and Leiden

  • 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Take a train to Haarlem (€4.50 return) and visit the stunning Grote Markt
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Frans Hals Museum (open daily 11am-5pm, tickets €14)
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local café in Haarlem or Leiden and explore their charming city centres
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Visit the Rijksmuseum (€19) in Amsterdam or spend more time exploring Leiden’s historic centre
  • Transportation:
    • Use public transport (train or bus) to travel between cities
    • Consider purchasing a day ticket for unlimited travel

Day 4: The Dutch Countryside

  • 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Take a train to the picturesque town of Edam (€11.50 return)
  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the famous windmills and cheese market
  • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local café or try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as erwtensoep or poffertjes
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Explore the charming countryside, visit a local farm, or take a bike tour
  • Things to know:
    • Don’t forget your camera for the stunning Dutch landscapes and picturesque villages
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak season (June-August)
    • Respect local traditions and customs

Day 5: Utrecht

  • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the iconic Dom Tower in Utrecht’s historic centre
  • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local café or try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as hutspot or gebakk
  • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the Oudegracht (Old Canal) and visit the Muziekcentrum Vredenburg for some live music
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Visit a local brewery or enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
  • Things to know:
    • Utrecht is a student city; expect a lively atmosphere during peak season (September-May)
    • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Dom Tower

Day 6: Return to Amsterdam

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Take a train back to Amsterdam
  • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Visit the famous flower market (open daily 9am-7pm, tickets €2) or explore the trendy Overtoom neighbourhood
  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Enjoy some last-minute shopping or visit a local café for some final Dutch treats
  • 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Depart for Schiphol Airport or extend your stay in Amsterdam

Useful Information

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to enter the Netherlands. Check with the Dutch embassy or consulate if you’re unsure.
  • Weather: The Netherlands has mild climate; pack layers for spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November)
  • Safety:
    • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
    • Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas, especially at night
    • Respect local customs and traditions

Note: This itinerary is a general guide; you may adjust it to suit your preferences and schedule.