From the moment you start planning a trip to the Netherlands, you know you’re going to be visiting somewhere oozing charm, history and vibrant culture.
As someone who loves to travel, I’ve certainly left my heart in the elegant canals, historic windmills, and bustling cities the country provides visitors. In this post, I’ll share with you some crucial tips and a glorious three-day itinerary.
Welcome, to the total experience that is the Netherlands. Let me show you around!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Netherlands Travel Itinerary
Before you plunge headfirst into your Dutch experience, though, there are a few key things you need to know about the Netherlands and consider before you leave. These will help tailor your travel experience to your tastes – and make your trip as smooth as possible.
Budget: Work out how much you can afford to spend on accommodation, foo and activities – then base your trip around that!
Accommodation Options: Whether you want to stay in a hostel or a three-star luxury hotel, where you lay your head at night will be crucial to how much you enjoy your trip.
Time of Year: The weather alters dramatically, so when you travel is equally important to what you see and do.
Interests and Activities: Plan your itinerary around activities you love – whether that’s museum trips, city tours, or exploring untouched nature.
Health and Safety: Keep an eye on health advice, and make sure you stay safe on your trip.
Travel Restrictions and Visas: Make sure you have all required documentation, and are aware of any advisories before you leave.
2. Perfect 3-Day Netherlands Travel Itinerary
Now, let’s explore the best of the Netherlands with this detailed three-day itinerary. From the cultural treasures of Amsterdam to the picturesque landscapes and innovative architecture of Rotterdam, this guide ensures an unforgettable Dutch adventure.
Netherlands 3-Day Trip Table
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities |
1 | Amsterdam | Central Station, Damlak Waterfront, Dam Square, Nine Streets, Flower Market, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum |
2 | Amsterdam | Keukenhof Gardens, Zaandam, Windmill Village |
3 | The Hague, Rotterdam | "Girl with a Pearl Earring" at Mauritshuis; Geometric House, Pencil House, Pipe House, Arched Market |
Day 1: Amsterdam Awesomeness
Today, we're exploring the very best of Amsterdam – a mix of history, culture, and just plain pretty. You're going to love hopping from spot to spot as much as we do.
What To Do Today:
Central Station: The city's neo-Gothic central station – get in and out through the whirling, alive concourse and let's go see Amsterdam.
Damrak Waterfront: The gateway to the canal-lined city awaits: head out to see ships bustling up the water.
Dam Square: the hub of activity in the city centre, watched over by the grand Royal Palace.
Nine Streets: "De Negen Straatjes" - shop, sip, and peruse boutiques in this little slice of perfection.
Flower Market: Waltz around a rainbow of blooms and dancing tulips on the world's only floating market.
Rijksmuseum: Hit up a world-class museum of arts and history, with Rembrandt's The Night Watch and delightful gardens and café.
Van Gogh Museum: The largest collection of the artist's works in the world fills this top museum, with touchable casts of the brushstrokes and insightful special exhibitions.
Where To Stay:
A well-located hotel in Amsterdam's city core will keep you close to all the attractions and eateries you'll need. Consider accommodations in the Jordaan district or De Pijp neighborhood for a touch more neighborhood charm.
Amsterdam City Card: You might want to grab one of these for free entry and discounts at a number of attractions, as well as included public transport.
Locomotion: Jump a tram or grab a bike to zip past the day plan and see it all with ease.
Early Bird: Sunshine and emptier streets await early risers at tourist hotspots.
Fancy Bites: Amsterdam's culinary landscape is bright and FUN - don't leave without trying local delicacies like herring, bitterballen, and stroopwafels.
Day 2: The Natural Wonders and Historical Charms of the Netherlands
If yesterday was all about soaking up the sights of the city, today is all about the wider beauty and history of the country. Prepare to see and learn more about why they say this part of the world is so flat – as well as some of the most impressive flora imaginable.
What to See and Do Today:
Keukenhof Gardens: World-famous 79-acre flower garden, with over seven million bulbs in bloom in spring, including countless tulip varieties.
Zaandam: Zaandam's Windmill Village is exactly what it sounds like, a replica historical Dutch windmill village with some genuinely fascinating history about the importance of these structures to Dutch industry.
Windmill Village: I promise you this is different – the other Windmill Village you visit is an interactive work day of the historical windmills in action, with museums, craft workshops, and traditional craft demonstrations, all set in a scenic windmill village.
Where to stay:
Amsterdam: As yesterday, you’ll not want to sacrifice access and comfort during your stay, so I continue to suggest using Amsterdam as a base of operations and returning here between day trips or in the evenings.
A small B&B in the countryside could be a nice touch if you’re looking for something different.
Advance Tickets: Book tickets for Keukenhof Gardens in advance to skip the lines.
Transport: Use a combination of train and bus to reach Keukenhof and Zaandam easily.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot today.
Local Markets: Explore local markets in Zaandam for unique souvenirs and traditional snacks.
Day 3: The Hauge’s Cultural Heritage And Rotterdam’s Modernism
The last day will see you trade the peaceful countryside for the bustling twin cities of The Hague and Rotterdam. From historical treasures to cutting-edge architecture, these two urban centres have it all.
What to See and Do Today:
Mauritshuis Museum: An unmissable destination for art aficionados; home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and several other Rembrandts, this museum is an intimate look at the paintings of the Dutch Golden Age.
Rotterdam: Cube Houses is one of Rotterdam’s architectural wonders,where you’ll find a collection of cubic apartments, raised on corners. The Kijk-Kubus (show cube) complex also offers a glimpse of life in urban Rotterdam.
Pencil House: Another structure within the Kijk-Kubus precinct, it’s difficult to miss due to its sharp design.
Pipe House: Yet another architectural marvel in the City of Architecture, this one shows Rotterdam’s creativity when designing an urban environment.
Market Hall: A great, sprawling food market contained within a vast, arched building. Try dishes from around the world and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of Market Hall as you wind down the day.
Where to stay:
Choose a hotel in Rotterdam if you intend to spend more time in the city, but it’s a short journey back to Amsterdam if your departure is early the next day. Central Rotterdam offers a range of dining and nightlife choices if you opt to stay overnight.
Train Travel: The Dutch rail service remains the best way to jump from one destination to the next, particularly when visiting the Netherlands’ urban hotspots.
An Early Start: There’s a lot to see and do in both Rotterdam and The Hague, so set an early alarm to take in as much as possible.
Museum Pass: If you anticipate seeing multiple museums and attractions, it’s worth picking up a pass for discounted or free entry.
Cultural Insight: While in The Hague, take a moment to see the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice.
How to Shorten or Extend the 3-Day Route
Shortening the Trip:
Focus on Amsterdam: Spend all three days exploring Amsterdam and its surroundings, including a half-day trip to Keukenhof Gardens. You can skip Zaandam and condense museum visits.
Extending the Trip:
Utrecht and Haarlem: Add visits to nearby cities like Utrecht and Haarlem, known for their historical sites and charming city centers. Utrecht’s Dom Tower and Haarlem’s Grote Markt are must-see attractions.
Canal Tour: Include a relaxing canal tour in Amsterdam to see the city from a different perspective. Consider evening cruises that offer dinner and unique city views.
3. Top 10 Netherlands Food and Drink
The Netherlands boasts a varied and tasty food and drink scene, influenced by its history and agricultural produce. Here are 10 of the best Dutch dishes and treats you have to try:
1. Stroopwafels:
Wafer-thin discs of waffle filled with caramel syrup, frequently placed over a cup of coffee or tea to soften the treat. Originating in Gouda.
2. Herring (Haring):
Raw herring served with onions and pickles – Hollandse Nieuwe in the summer months is best. Visit street vendors or fish markets.
3. Poffertjes:
Baby pancakes, fluffy and kissed with powdered sugar and butter. Made with yeast and buckwheat flour, you find these at festivals and markets.
4. Bitterballen:
Deep fried balls of meaty raisin, usually of beef or veal ragout. Crispy on the outside, they’re typically served with mustard, and a popular bar snack or party piece.
5. Kroketten:
Cylindrical croquettes – rolled in breadcrumbs and deep fried with a creamy meat ragout inside. Dutch fast food staple, and often served in sandwiches.
6. Erwtensoep:
Thick pea soup with sausage – snert – is a thick, stew-like winter soup with split peas, pork, and smoked sausage.
7. Oliebollen:
Deep fried doughnuts-eque fritters, served in stands around New Year. Often made with sultanas and generously dusted with powdered sugar.
8. Kibbeling:
Deep fried hunks of fish, usually cod or whiting, served with garlic or tartar sauce. A popular street food, and ideal for a snack or light meal.
9. Gouda Cheese:
It’d be rude not to sample some of the eponymous cheese of Holland. Gouda is known for its sweet and creamy flavor, with mild variants. Visit a cheese market or store.
10. Speculaas:
Spiced shortcrust biscuits traditionally served to celebrate Sinterklaas, in lead up to Christmas. Flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger abound, shaped with wooden molds.
4. Additional Tips for Netherlands Traveling
Packing Essentials
Something to cover you in the rain, comfortable shoes for walking (and walking... and walking), and layers to remove if the weather gets warmer later.
Don’t forget an adapter for wall sockets, a reusable water bottle, and any medications you need. We’d also recommend bringing a daypack to tote your essentials around with you.
Cash, Local Apps for Payment and Transport
The Netherlands is largely a cash-free society, but it’s handy to have some change for small purchases, markets, or some rural areas.
People here use the iDeal app for secure online payments, and the 9292 app to plan journeys on public transport – the OV system is managed through a chipkaart card that can be used across modes of transport.
Almost everywhere will accept credit cards or contactless payments.
Local Etiquette and Customs
Dutch people are direct and punctual, and you’re best being the same. Common greetings include "Hallo", departing “Dank u wel” for "Thank you". Until you're invited to do otherwise, refer to anyone – if you have to at all – by their title rather than first name. Use only your right hand to give and receive items. While you certainly shouldn’t be loud, invading someone’s personal space is cause for offense.
Transport Options
Trains, trams, buses, and even waterside ferries are part of the efficient public transport network in the Netherlands. A card called an OV-chipkaart is used for travel options, making it easier for tickets to be used across the network.
The country is famously perfect for riding bikes – more bikes than people, some are statistics – and on arrival you’ll find ample bike rental shops. Trains are generally best for longer distance travel, while within urban areas trams and buses are more useful.
Renting a Car or Scooter
Renting a car or moped for your journey gives excellent freedom, though comes with responsibilities.
Having wheels can take you to more rural locations or those poorly served by public transport – but double-up on cost and restrictions around refueling and parking.
Make sure to wear a helmet when riding a scooter, and respect local driving laws. In some instances, an International Driving Permit may be required.
Communication: Language Tips
Fancy date with the Dutch language? English is the most widely spoken second language, especially throughout the majority of the towns and cities you’re likely to visit.
Here are some daily languages:
"Goedemorgen" - Good morning
"Alstublieft" - Please
"Waar is…" - Where is...
Of course, basic translation apps can get you further, too.
Summary
This is the end of our 3-day travel itinerary through the Netherlands, filled with sights and exciting experiences.
From Amsterdam’s vibrant canals to the charming windmills of Zaanse Schans, and the picturesque streets of Utrecht, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey.
May this guide help you create wonderful memories in the Netherlands. Enjoy your trip!