Places to visit around Amsterdam
Must-see destinations
10 places you must see near Amsterdam
Amsterdam might be known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful canals, but there's more to the Dutch capital than that. It's time to venture outside the city and explore what lies beyond the city centre!
We've created a list of 10 destinations near Amsterdam, which you can easily reach by car. Choose your car now, and get it delivered to a location of your choice. Now all you need to do is hit the road!
TOP destinations around Amsterdam
1. Muiderslot Castle
2. Zaanse Schans
3. Zandvoort Beach
4. Alkmaar
5. Keukenhof Gardens
6. The Hague
7. Delft
8. Rotterdam
9. De Hoge Veluwe
10. Giethoorn
1. Muiderslot Castle
Distance from Amsterdam: about 16 km
Step back in time at the Muiderslot Castle, a 700-year-old part of the former Defense Line of Amsterdam and a UNESCO world heritage site. The castle serves as a backdrop for many medieval tv-shows and is a must-see outside of the city. Explore the Knight's Hall, see the armory, and wander through the beautiful castle gardens.
2. Zaanse Schans
Distance from Amsterdam: about 20 km
Zaanse Schans is a neighborhood in Zaandam, close to Amsterdam. It's one of the best places to admire traditional Dutch windmills and historic houses. It's a picturesque village that comes with its very own clog (!) museum and cheese farm, where you can sample some local delicacies.
3. Zandvoort Beach
Distance from Amsterdam: about 40 km
What better way to unwind than dipping your toes in the sand? Only a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam's city centre, Zandvoort Beach is a relaxing getaway from the city. Sit back and relax and watch the waves or get active with some kitesurfing. There are also several beach clubs, each with its own vibe if you want a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
4. Alkmaar
Distance from Amsterdam: about 40 km
Cheese lovers rejoice! One of the world's most famous cheese markets is set every Friday in Alkmaar. This traditional market has been taking place for at least 400 years and involves around 2,400 wheels of cheese and professional judges. Even if you're not a fan of the yellow gold, it's a real treat to see the traditional cheese carriers and the rituals in action.
5. Keukenhof Gardens
Distance from Amsterdam: about 49 km
This park is often referred to as the "Garden of Europe" and has over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths on display. Keukenhof Gardens are only open from late March to mid-May, so plan your visit carefully to witness the beauty of these spring flowers.
6. The Hague
Distance from Amsterdam: about 64 km
There are many reasons to visit The Hague, but its 11-kilometer-long beach is a great place to start. Make sure to go for a ride on the 45-meter-tall Ferris wheel and enjoy the city's panoramic views. Fans of the movie 'Girl with A Pearl Earring' shouldn't miss out on visiting the stunning Mauritshuis collection. Next to this Vermeer classic it also houses plenty of other paintings from the artist, also dubbed the "Sphinx of Delft."
7. Delft
Distance from Amsterdam: about 75 km
Widely known for its beautiful Delft Blue, this charming city has much more to offer than just pottery. Art lovers can get their fix by exploring the Vermeer Centrum Delft, a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. Or simply wander around the city centre and marvel at the Oude Kerk, a stunning medieval church with a leaning tower.
8. Rotterdam
Distance from Amsterdam: about 77 km
As a major port city and the second largest in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is not to be missed. The city is known for its modern architecture, the iconic Erasmus bridge, and an impressive harbour. For design enthusiasts, a visit to the 70s yellow Cube Houses is essential while visiting the city.
9. De Hoge Veluwe
Distance from Amsterdam: about 78 km
A visit to De Hoge Veluwe makes you feel like you've stepped into a nature wonderland. The national park offers plenty of stunning scenery such as forests, heathlands, and sand dunes, which you can explore by safari tour or bike (in true Dutch fashion). Don't miss out on the Jachthuis Sint Hubertus, a gorgeous hunting lodge that has been transformed into a museum.
10. Giethoorn
Distance from Amsterdam: about 113 km
This picturesque little village, also known as the Venice of the Netherlands, is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. It is mainly navigated by boats, as the village is surrounded by canals and over 180 bridges. Don't miss out on a boat ride on the waterways and marvel at the beautiful houses along the way.
Hundreds of cars, one app
Explore Amsterdam's surroundings by car
Planning a day trip around Amsterdam? Consider renting a car with SHARE NOW. Cars are available all over the city, and you can easily find one via the app.
You can also book a car in advance and have it delivered to your chosen location. With SHARE NOW, you'll have everything you need for a worry-free adventure, including charging, parking, and insurance. So hop in and explore all that Amsterdam has to offer!
