Spending a week in the Netherlands? You’re in for a treat. This tiny country packs a punch with its charming canals, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you soak up culture, enjoy delicious food, and explore breathtaking sights. Grab your bike, your sense of adventure, and let’s get going!
Day 1: Amsterdam - The heart of the Netherlands
Morning: Land at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and take the train to Amsterdam Central Station (15-20 minutes). Check into your hotel, drop off your bags, and get ready for a day of exploration. Start with a leisurely breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam. Trust me, you’ll want to try the Dutch pancakes.
Afternoon: Stroll the picturesque canals and visit the Anne Frank House. Make sure to book your tickets online beforehand; nobody likes waiting in line when there are pancakes to be had. Afterward, head to the Jordaan district for lunch at a local cafe.
Evening: Enjoy a canal cruise at sunset. It’s romantic unless you’re with your overly chatty cousin—then it’s just awkward. After the cruise, grab dinner at a local Indonesian restaurant. Rijsttafel (rice table) is a must-try!
Day 2: Day trip to Zaanse Schans and Edam
Morning: Grab a quick breakfast and take a train from Amsterdam to Koog-Zaandijk (20 minutes). Explore Zaanse Schans, where you can see iconic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and cheese-making demonstrations. It’s like stepping into a postcard.
- Don’t miss the windmill museum.
- Sample some cheese at the cheese factory.
Afternoon: Take a bus or bike to Edam (30 minutes). Enjoy lunch at a canal-side café and indulge in some Edam cheese. Stroll through the quaint streets and visit the Edam Cheese Market (Wednesday mornings only).
Evening: Head back to Amsterdam. Treat yourself to dinner at Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market with diverse options. Grab a craft beer and your favorite bites. You’ll thank yourself later.
Day 3: Utrecht - A hidden gem
Morning: Take a train to Utrecht (30 minutes). Start your day with breakfast at a cozy café by the canals. The atmosphere here is a bit more laid-back than Amsterdam, so soak it in.
Afternoon: Visit the Dom Tower and climb the 465 steps to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, explore the Museum Speelklok, where you can see and hear self-playing musical instruments. It’s oddly satisfying.
- Check out the unique wharf cellars along the canals.
- Have lunch at a local eatery, trying the local specialty: Utrechtsche Schotel.
Evening: Catch a train back to Amsterdam. Enjoy a relaxed dinner in the De Pijp neighborhood. Try the famous stroopwafels for dessert—you’ll never look at cookies the same way again.
Day 4: Rotterdam - Modern architecture
Morning: Head to Rotterdam by train (about 1 hour). Start with breakfast near the iconic Markthal, where you can admire the stunning ceiling art while munching on fresh produce and pastries. It’s a feast for the eyes and stomach.
Afternoon: Explore the city’s modern architecture, including the Cube Houses and the Erasmus Bridge. Visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum if art is your thing, or simply wander around the vibrant streets. Grab lunch at Fenix Food Factory, a hip food hall.
- Take a quick ferry ride across the river for great city views.
- Don’t miss the chance to try some local seafood.
Evening: Head back to Amsterdam. If you’re up for it, explore the nightlife in the Leidseplein area. There’s something for everyone, from cozy pubs to lively clubs.
Day 5: The Hague and Scheveningen Beach
Morning: Take a train to The Hague (50 minutes). Enjoy breakfast in the city before visiting the Mauritshuis to see masterpieces like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. It’s a must-see—you’ll leave feeling cultured and slightly smug.
Afternoon: Head to Scheveningen Beach (a short tram ride away). Enjoy a beachside lunch and maybe even try some water sports. The beach is lovely, but don’t forget the sunscreen unless you want to look like a lobster.
- Stroll along the pier and check out the attractions.
- Consider visiting the Sea Life aquarium if you’re into marine life.
Evening: Return to The Hague for dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Dutch dishes like herring or poffertjes, which are basically tiny pancakes that make you feel like a kid again.
Day 6: Keukenhof and tulip fields
Morning: Take an early train to Lisse (about 1 hour), where the famous Keukenhof Gardens are located. This is where you’ll find millions of blooming tulips. It’s a riot of color that will make your Instagram followers jealous.
Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the gardens and the surrounding tulip fields. Don’t forget to take your classic “field of flowers” photo. Have lunch at one of the cafes in the park.
- Check out the windmill for a great view of the gardens.
- Be sure to sample some local Dutch treats while you’re there.
Evening: Head back to Amsterdam for your last night. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a canal-side restaurant. Reflect on your week and all the amazing sights you’ve seen—while planning your next trip, of course.
Day 7: Departure
Morning: Depending on your flight time, grab a final breakfast in Amsterdam. Take a stroll through Vondelpark to soak in the last bit of Dutch charm. Maybe even stop by a souvenir shop to grab a few clogs or a fridge magnet.
Afternoon: Head to the airport with plenty of time to spare. As you leave, remember that the Netherlands isn’t just a place—it’s a collection of experiences that will linger long after you’ve gone. Whether it’s the beauty of the tulips or the taste of stroopwafels, you’ll carry a piece of this country with you.
Your week in the Netherlands is over, but don’t worry—there’s always next time for more pancakes and tulips!
