Netherlands 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam

  • Destination: Amsterdam
  • Transportation: Fly into Schiphol Airport (AMS) and take the train or bus to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
  • Accommodation: Stay in a hotel or hostel in the city center, such as the Jordaan neighborhood.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the famous Vondelpark for a stroll and people-watching
    • Explore the charming streets of the Jordaan district and its many shops, cafes, and restaurants
    • Get your bearings with a walk along the canals (grachten) and admire the architecture
  • Tips: Don’t forget to purchase an OV-chipkaart for easy travel on public transportation. Also, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Day 2: Amsterdam

  • Destination: Amsterdam
  • Transportation: Use your OV-chipkaart to take the tram or bus to get around the city.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Rijksmuseum to see famous Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt
    • Explore the Anne Frank House, where the Jewish girl wrote her diary during WWII (book tickets in advance)
    • Take a canal boat tour for a unique perspective on the city
  • Tips: The museum and house are very popular, so book your tickets early. Also, be prepared for crowds.

Day 3: Haarlem

  • Destination: Haarlem (30 minutes by train from Amsterdam)
  • Transportation: Take the train to Haarlem Station.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Grote Markt and its famous St. Bavo’s Church
    • Explore the Frans Hals Museum, which features works by the Dutch painter
    • Wander through the charming streets of Haarlem and visit the Haarlemse Schouwburg theater
  • Tips: Don’t forget to buy some stroopwafels (Dutch waffle cookies) at a local bakery.

Day 4: Keukenhof Gardens

  • Destination: Lisse (1 hour by bus from Amsterdam)
  • Transportation: Take the bus or drive to Keukenhof.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens, featuring millions of tulips and other flowers
    • Explore the gardens’ many themed areas and exhibitions
    • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens (don’t forget your blanket!)
  • Tips: Book your tickets early as the gardens are very popular. Also, be prepared for crowds and long lines.

Day 5: Utrecht

  • Destination: Utrecht
  • Transportation: Take the train to Utrecht Station.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Dom Tower (a beautiful Gothic church tower) and take a elevator ride to the top
    • Explore the charming streets of the Oudegracht (old canal) district
    • Visit the Centraal Museum, which features Dutch art and history
  • Tips: Don’t forget to buy some cheese frites at a local food stand.

Day 6: Leiden

  • Destination: Leiden
  • Transportation: Take the train or bus to Leiden Station.
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, which features ancient art and artifacts from around the world
    • Explore the charming streets of the historic center, including the Pieterskerk (St. Peter’s Church)
    • Visit the Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll among the plants and flowers
  • Tips: Don’t forget to buy some cheese or other snacks at a local market.

Day 7: Return to Amsterdam

  • Destination: Amsterdam
  • Transportation: Take the train or bus back to Schiphol Airport (AMS) for your departure flight.
  • Accommodation: Spend the night in Amsterdam if you have an evening flight, or depart directly from the airport.

Visa Requirements:

  • Most tourists do not need a visa to enter the Netherlands. Check with the Dutch government’s website for up-to-date information on visa requirements and travel restrictions.

Other Tips:

  • Be prepared for rain! The Netherlands can be rainy and cloudy, so bring an umbrella or waterproof jacket.
  • Try some local food like stamppot (mashed potatoes and kale) or herring at a street market or food stand.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers or bartenders, as they work hard to provide good service.

Budget:

  • Accommodation: €80-€120 per night for a budget-friendly hostel or Airbnb
  • Food: €15-€25 per meal for a mid-range restaurant or café
  • Transportation: €2.50-€5 per ride for public transportation, with an OV-chipkaart
  • Attractions: €10-€20 per person for most museums and attractions

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary depending on the location and time of year.

I hope you have a wonderful trip to the Netherlands!