16 Best Weekend Trips from Amsterdam – Local’s Guide

Are you looking for the best weekend trips from Amsterdam? Then you are not alone!

While Amsterdam is a beautiful and enchanting city, there is only so much you can do there. The Netherlands has so much to offer – so why not explore more of the country on a fun weekend getaway?

I have lived in the Netherlands for three years now, and we did our best to explore the country on the weekends.

Finding unique places and hidden gems to visit can be a hassle. So I have asked all my family and friends here in the Netherlands for their secret tips for amazing weekend getaways from Amsterdam. And I can tell you one thing – visiting these has been a real treat!

To make this whole thing a bit easier for you, I have grouped the destinations according to the type of trip (beach, city, and unique getaways).

Let’s check them out!

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How to move around in the Netherlands

If you’re looking for weekend trips from Amsterdam, the Netherlands offers plenty of exciting destinations to explore. When planning your trip, there are many transportation options available. Depending on where you want to go, we can find the best fit for your weekend trip from Amsterdam.

Travel By Train

The most popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands is by train. Dutch Railways (NS) for example offers multiple connections to cities such as Rotterdam, Utrecht, and all other major cities. Most trains take off at the Central Station – Amsterdam Centraal Station.

You can easily purchase tickets at the train stations or online through their website. Additionally, NS provides discounts for students and travelers over 65 years of age.

You can also check Trainline for good connections and cheap tickets. There are a few other railway companies in the Netherlands besides NS (live Arriva), and Trainline can help you find a good connection.

Make sure to reserve your seat or book first-class tickets. The trains are extremely busy and loud here, so it might not be the most comfortable way to travel.

Travel By Car

For longer journeys, a car may be more convenient. You can rent a car from various agencies in Amsterdam and surrounding areas. Check DiscoverCars for the best prices and the most convenient service.

Sadly, parking and fuel in the Netherlands are quite expensive. Keep this in mind when planning your weekend trip from Amsterdam.

One thing to keep in mind when driving a car in the Netherlands: they change their tempo limit during the daytime to 100 km/h.

Top tip: book your parking spot ahead of time with Q-Park, you can save a ton of money this way.

Taxis are another option but tend to be more expensive than other forms of transport.

Best Amsterdam Weekend Getaways – Beach Trips

Ameland

Distance from Amsterdam: 3 hours (with ferry)

Where to stay: Strandhotel Buren aan Zee

Ameland is a cute, small Dutch island in the North Sea. It is an excellent destination for a romantic weekend getaway from Amsterdam.

The island, part of a group of islands known as the Wadden Islands, is known for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. The landscape is simply beautiful. It is made up of rolling hills and grassy meadows. Ameland is also home to ancient monuments such as churches and traditional windmills that have been preserved since the Middle Ages.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Ameland offers plenty of things to do. From hiking trails through its lush forests to bike trails along the ocean, you can find something to do in any season. The beaches are also a great place to relax or take part in various water sports, like stand-up paddle boarding or kite surfing.

Overall, Ameland is a great holiday destination – especially for long weekends. The endless, white sandy beaches and cute little Inns will enchant you as much as it did us when we visited last year. The perfect spot for a weekend trip from Amsterdam.

Scheveningen

Time from Amsterdam: 1 hour

Where to stay: Inntel Hotels Den Haag Marina Beach

Scheveningen Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands and the perfect weekend getaway from Amsterdam. Located on the Dutch coast, this stunning beach offers cool activities for every taste to enjoy.

We have just returned from a romantic weekend in Scheveningen Beach. Our stay at the Inntel Hotels Den Haag Marina Beach was super luxurious and we returned completely relaxed.

The beach features two kilometers of fine golden sand and stunning views across the North Sea. Along the promenade are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are also many cute shops in the small town.

Scheveningen is surrounded by an array of attractions that make it an ideal weekend destination from Amsterdam. These include Madurodam miniature town and Museum Beelden aan Zee art museum – both located nearby – as well as several nature reserves such as Westduinpark which is great for biking or walking tours through its various trails.

Overall, Scheveningen Beach makes for a great weekend escape from Amsterdam! With its vibrant atmosphere and a wide variety of activities to choose from both on land and sea – it is the ideal destination for a romantic weekend away from Amsterdam.

Zandvoort

Time from Amsterdam: 30 mins

Where to stay: Beachhouse Hotel

Just 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train, the small seaside town of Zandvoort is a wonderful weekend beach escape from the city. Zandvoort’s wide, sandy beach is a good enough reason to visit by itself but there are more than enough things to do in Zandvoort to easily fill a weekend.

I visited in November, but if you visit Zandvoort in the summer, you’ll find the beach lined with lots of beach pavilions, perfect for a romantic drink as you watch the sun go down and a dinner of freshly caught fish.

Zandvoort is surrounded by nature reserves; the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park to the north and the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen to the south.

The Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen (Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes) is a beautiful and peaceful area of water channels, woods, and sand dunes that help supply the city with clean water but are also home to the Netherlands’ largest herd of fallow deer.

Zandvoort is also home to the Dutch F1 Grand Prix, along with 300 other race days each year. You can watch from the stands or try racing yourself, either at one of the driving schools or on their state-of-the-art driving simulators.

In the evening, I loved exploring the old streets behind the seafront. There are lots of bars and restaurants here too, with outdoor seating for warmer days and places to cozy up if the weather isn’t so good. 

Bergen

Time from Amsterdam: 45 mins

Where to stay: Cottage The Lijster

The little village of Bergen in Noord Holland is a great weekend getaway from Amsterdam for many reasons. It is known for its charming picturesque atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings.

This quaint Dutch village has a population of just over 11,000 people and is located only a few minutes away from the North Sea. Therefore it is an ideal location for those seeking relaxation and tranquility. We have gone there many times for long weekends – and absolutely loved it.

Bergen has plenty to offer visitors including historical monuments such as the 13th century Sint-Adelbert Church, beautiful beaches, picturesque dunes, lush green parks, and even a nearby zoo.

There are also plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants to explore. The town is famous for being an artist’s village, so there are lots of galleries and museums as well.

Those wishing to be active can take an adventurous bike ride along the coast or go hiking through the dunes. With its easy access from Amsterdam by train or car, breathtaking scenery, and beautiful town center, Bergen makes for a perfect weekend getaway from Amsterdam!

Best Amsterdam Weekend Getaways – City Trips

Haarlem

Time from Amsterdam: 30 min

Where to stay: Brass Hotel Suites

Like many Dutch towns, Haarlem is surrounded by charming canals and beautiful traditional architecture. Strolling around the center, around the area of the Grote Markt (the big market) will be the perfect way to start your adventure.

The market has a very lively ambiance, especially on Mondays and Saturdays when the open-air market takes place, plus it’s surrounded by some good museums.
There are lots of things to do in Haarlem, but there are three places that you shouldn’t miss. 

The first one is a visit to the Adriaan Windmill, an iconic landmark in Haarlem, where you can see how old windmills used to work, visit the exhibition rooms, plus get fantastic views from the top of the windmill. 

Second, make sure to visit the Jopenskerk, an old church transformed into a brewery and restaurant. Try their “high beer” (like a high tea but with beer instead of tea). 

And last, I suggest you not to miss a visit to the Ten Boom Museum, which was for me the most interesting site in Haarlem. The house where the museum is located used to be a hideout for Jews during WWII, and you can learn a lot about its history during the guided visit.

The Hague

Time from Amsterdam: 1 hour

Where to stay: Staybridge Suites The Hague Parlament

The Hague is the perfect spot for a weekend trip from Amsterdam. It offers a wide array of activities and attractions that will suit any traveler’s taste. From culture and history to nature and shopping, The Hague has something for everyone.

The city is home to many notable landmarks, including the famous Peace Palace—a historic building that houses the International Court of Justice. You can also check out the Noordeinde Palace, where the Dutch royal family occasionally resides.

The Old Town not only offers stunning architecture but also features specialty shops, restaurants, cafes, museums, and art galleries. For an outdoor escape, you can explore the nearby beaches and sand dunes of Scheveningen or take a walk in one of the city’s numerous parks and gardens.

Every Saturday morning there is a vibrant outdoor market at Grote Markt Square, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.

And if you are looking for some retail therapy in between sightseeing stops then The Passage shopping mall is your go-to destination with its trendy boutiques and vibrant atmosphere. The Passage is also a UNESCO-protected site.

To sum up, The Hague offers travelers a wide range of experiences combined with its historical beauty making it an ideal weekend getaway from Amsterdam.

Rotterdam

Time from Amsterdam: 1 hour

Where to stay: The Slaak Rotterdam

During our year living in Amsterdam, we visited several Dutch cities and of course Rotterdam. We were so surprised at how cool this city is. Alongside Oslo in Norway, Rotterdam is definitely a city for architecture lovers. You find modern buildings everywhere, but also an old, historic quarter in typical Dutch style.

From Amsterdam Central Station it is around 40 minutes till you reach the futuristic train station in Rotterdam. The city is super by bike or on foot and has lots of unique things to do on a weekend away in the Netherlands.

There are many museums to visit or you can go on a harbor boat tour. Our favorite architectural highlights in Rotterdam are in the city center and easy to get to:

• Erasmusbrug
• Skyline of Rotterdam
• Markthal
• Cube Houses
• Delfshaven

All of them are free of charge to visit. The Erasmusbrug (Erasmus bridge) connects the centre of Rotterdam with a modern part of the city: On your way there you can see the cool skyline of Rotterdam. Check out the new hotel bar for a delicious cocktail and a view over the Rotterdam.

The Markthal is our favorite food place in Rotterdam. It is not only very specially shaped, but you will also find amazing food spots for everyone.

If you plan to see a bit more Dutch-style architecture, go and check out the area of Delfshaven. It is still in its original shape and did not get bombed during WWII. For us, this area did not feel touristy or crowded. It is a bit further outside of the center but worth visiting.

Our highlight in Rotterdam is the cube houses which are designed by Piet Blom. It is hard to imagine living in one of these yellow cubes though. The main idea is to optimize space in a house for a better distribution of the rooms inside. You can get great photo spots from different angles. 

Maastricht

Time from Amsterdam: 2,5 hours

Where to stay: Le Theatre

Maastricht is one of the most popular weekend breaks in the Netherlands, and it’s easy to see why. From its stunning architecture and historical sites to its vibrant nightlife and world-class cuisine, Maastricht has a little something for everyone.

I live in the Netherlands and decided to make this city my home because it is like no other! One of the best things about Maastricht is its unique combination of old and new, giving visitors the chance to explore both ancient history and modern culture. 

The city’s winding alleyways are lined with beautiful old buildings, churches, and museums that offer a glimpse into the past, while its restaurants and bars provide plenty of opportunities to sample some of the city’s most delicious cuisine. 

You cannot visit the city without trying its traditional pie (Vlaai). There are many places to get it around Maastricht but the best place is Peter Lemmens. There are so many Vlaai options but the traditional Rijstevlaai is the best!

Make sure you visit on a Friday so you can experience the local market in Market Square. Here you will find food trucks, fresh flowers, and local goods to buy. 

If you want to taste more of Maastricht, book a beer tasting at Stadsbrouwerij Maastricht. This brewery has amazing views over the river and amazing staff that will make your visit even better.

No matter if you plan to do lots in Maastricht or nothing at all, you will not be disappointed because it is stunning. However, like many cobbled cities across Europe, pack flat shoes!

Delft

Time from Amsterdam: 1 hour

Where to stay: Hotel Royal Bridges

The gorgeous town of Delft lies between Rotterdam and The Hague. This beautiful little university town with its many canals and the picturesque historic center is perfect for a weekend trip from Amsterdam.

There is plenty to see and do in Delft. I recommend starting your trip by taking a walking tour, as it is such a great way to learn a little about the town, get your bearings, and pick up great tips about shopping and dining. 

Delft is famous for its Delft Blue pottery. Pottery museums may not sound very exciting, but I assure you the Royal Delft Museum, located in the last remaining Delft Blue pottery factory from the 17th century, is.

It is also an excellent place to pick up good quality souvenirs from your trip to Delft. 

Delft is also famous for 17th-century painter Johannes Vermeer (1632 – 1675), who lived and worked in Delft all his life. If you appreciate art, visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft – it’s a fascinating insight into the artist’s life and work.

And within the museum is an art studio where you can experiment with the camera obscura and play with color, hidden views, and perspectives, just like Vermeer did with his paintings. 

If you have a head for heights, why not climb to the top of the gothic-style Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) bell tower? The tower is 108.75 meters high and has 376 steps to the top, but the view is very impressive. And note that the new church was built in the 1300s, so it is not really that new. 

Also, while you’re nearby, pop by the old church with its leaning tower and stained glass windows picturing all sorts of biblical torture.

And before leaving Delft, be sure to sample a delicious Stroopwafel! 

Den Bosch

Time from Amsterdam: 1 hour

Where to stay: The Den

Den Bosch (s’Hertogenbosch) may not be as popular for tourists as Amsterdam, Utrecht or Rotterdam but it makes for a fantastic weekend away in the Netherlands. Having grown up very close to the city, it’s one of my favorite ones to recommend to tourists.

Located in the South of the country, Den Bosch is filled with historic cobblestoned streets, a beautiful cathedral, and a thriving creative sector.

When spending a weekend in Den Bosch, make sure to check out St. Jans Cathedral. Built between 1380 and 1520, it is the largest Catholic Church in the country. Plus, you can enter for free.

Also make sure to stop by the Bossche Markt, the city’s marketplace. On it, you can find the oldest brick house in the Netherlands, De Moriaan – dating back to the 13th century.

If you’re looking for more artsy things to do in Den Bosch, the Verkadefabriek (the old cookies factory – yes, really!) is now a film, theatre, and dance center. There are a ton of shows on, but you can also choose to visit their cafe for a quick stop.

Not too far from the city center, you can find Work Warehouse (werkwarenhuis). This is a unique part of the city with many artist’s murals. The industrial atmosphere of this neighborhood, you can take some fantastic photos here.

And don’t forget to try a Bossche Bol, the city’s famous pastry. Essentially, it’s a huge creme puff, but better. Bakery “Jan de Groot” has some of the best in town, and it’s located near the train station so there are no excuses!

Eindhoven

Time from Amsterdam: 1,5 hours

Where to stay: Crown Hotel Eindhoven Centre

Eindhoven is a charming city with a lot to do and many activities to enjoy. 

The city itself is perfect for a walk.  The streets are illuminated in the evenings and filled with some of the best restaurants you can imagine.  Every cuisine in the world is in Eindhoven and you can restaurant hop to try new things. 

The streets are glistening with lights and you can hear the main church play melodies for several minutes in the evening. The melodies vary and are continuous and really quite spectacular.

One great dining experience is dinner at De Karpendonske Hoeve.  This Michelin-starred restaurant is nestled in a beautiful park setting and offers a refined menu featuring innovative dishes. The ambiance is extraordinary, and reservations here are encouraged.

If looking for a musical experience, there are candlelit concerts at Muziekgebouw.  The enchanting melodies of classical music during a candlelit concert at the Muziekgebouw is a unique experience as it provides for a cozy and intimate atmosphere for couples to enjoy during a beautiful classical showcase.

A visit to the Eindhoven Museum, an open-air museum, allows you to stroll through and learn about the city’s history, including its architecture and fascinating details about the city’s crypts.

Finally, a food or distillery tour is a must as it allows you to try some of the city’s spectacular cuisine, or try some of the spirit the city is known for.  It’s a great experience for couples looking to try new foods and drinks and have it all planned out for them.

These unique experiences in Eindhoven are a must when visiting the city as a couple and the city will certainly stand out in your mind for its spectacular range of cuisine and intimate city atmosphere.

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Best Amsterdam Weekend Trips – Unique Trips

Kinderdijk

Time from Amsterdam: 1,5 hours

Where to stay: BnB ‘t Ambacht

Kinderdijk is a picturesque village located in the Dutch province of South Holland that is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway for couples.

Its main attraction is the 19 iconic windmills that are still used today to regulate water levels in the surrounding area. The windmills, set in a stunning natural backdrop of lush green fields and canals, create a unique and enchanting atmosphere.

Kinderdijk offers plenty of activities for couples to enjoy. Long walks through the countryside, picnics while watching the sunset over the windmills, and exploring the charming village are all great options. 

Visiting the Kinderdijk windmills is also a must, as they offer insight into the history of the windmills and their cultural significance. They provide a glimpse into the daily life of a miller and how they were used in the past to pump water from low-lying land.

One of the most romantic experiences during our visit was cycling through the countryside. The peaceful scenery and fresh air made it a relaxing activity. As we cycled through the winding paths, we were surrounded by a picturesque landscape of windmills and canals.

We also took a boat tour through the canals to see the windmills from a different perspective and it was a fantastic way to appreciate the engineering marvel of these iconic structures.

You can stay in a cozy bed and breakfast in the village, BnB ‘t Ambacht, which is the perfect accommodation for a romantic getaway. The quaint and comfortable atmosphere of the bed and breakfast add to the overall charm of Kinderdijk. The local restaurant offers Dutch cuisine and we got the opportunity to try traditional Dutch delicacies, like appelflapen and stroopwafels.

Overall, Kinderdijk is a perfect destination for couples looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in Dutch culture and history. The tranquil atmosphere, picturesque scenery, and unique experience of the windmills make it an unforgettable and romantic destination.

Whether cycling through the countryside, taking a boat tour through the canals, or enjoying a romantic dinner, Kinderdijk is sure to create lasting memories for any couple. Kinderdijk is also an amazing alternative to visiting the Zaanse Schans.

Veere

Time from Amsterdam: 2,5 hours

Where to stay: B&B Binnengewoon Veere

Veere is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway, especially if you are looking for a romantic and relaxing escape from city life.

Veere is a picturesque town with a rich history located on a lake called Veerse Meer.

Going to Veere feels like stepping back in time.

Wander around the charming streets, admire the historic buildings, visit the museums and monuments, and enjoy the views of the harbor.

Do stop at Museum Veere, which consists of two houses across from the harbor. The museum tells the story of Veere’s connection with Scotland, which dates back to the 16th century when Veere was the staple port for Scottish wool. It gives a nice impression of what life in Veere was like centuries ago.

Another historic building worth visiting is the Grote Kerk, a massive Gothic church that dominates the skyline of Veere. The church was built in the 14th and 15th centuries and has a fascinating history. You can climb the tower for a great panoramic view of the area.

And of course, no weekend getaway is complete without some delicious food. Veere has plenty of options for dining, from cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, many offering you an opportunity to try some typical Dutch food.

One of my favorite places to eat is Brasserie de Peperboom. The setting is beautiful, the staff is friendly and the food is delicious.

For a sweet treat, go to Oma’s Snoepwinkel (Grandma’s Candy Store). If you’re from the Netherlands, this shop will take you back to your childhood! I loved seeing all the candy I grew up with. And if you’re not from the Netherlands, believe me, that this is really all candy we used to eat, even the weird stuff.

Veere has a good range of places to stay inside the historic town, or you could even stay at a nearby campground if you’re looking for some nature or are on a budget.

We stayed at B&B Binnengewoon Veere, which is a cute B&B overlooking the harbor, perfect for a romantic weekend getaway from Amsterdam.

Lisse

Time from Amsterdam: 45 min

Where to stay: Hotel Lowietje

Visiting South Holland during the region’s tulip season had been on my bucket list for ages. More so than visiting Keukenhof, I was excited to cycle the Dutch Flower route, a.k.a. the Bollenstreek, and be surrounded by stunning tulip fields stretching from Lisse to Hillegom and beyond. 

Lisse is where most bike rides begin. This picturesque town, with its charming streets, historical landmarks, and stunning landscapes, is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an authentic Dutch experience no matter the time of year – but more so in spring.

Between March and May each year, pedal your way through vibrant fields when the sky is lit up in orange hues to take in the beauty of the iconic flowers up close and make stops for the most incredible photoshoots! This is without a doubt, one of the most romantic spots in the Netherlands.

The entire flower route is about 35 kilometers long but can be cut into 5km, 10km, 15km, and 25km routes as well, so you can fit this adventure within your timeframe and cycling capability.

Not a fan of bike rides? No worries! There are other ways to take in the floral fuss in Lisse too. Visit the Museum de Zwarte Tulp, a space dedicated to the history of the Dutch flower bulb industry. Here you can learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and trade of tulips and other flowers that have made the Netherlands famous worldwide.

Beyond the Bollenstreek, Lisse is also a wonderful place to enjoy canal boat rides, marvel at historic spots such as the 14th century Saint Agatha Church, and try Dutch cuisines like Stamppot and Bitterballen.  Get ready for one of the best weekend trips from Amsterdam.

Ruinen in Drenthe

Time from Amsterdam: 2 hours

Where to stay: Hotel de Stobbe

Last year I went on a romantic weekend getaway to Ruinen in Drenthe. The location was so surprising, I never knew the Netherlands could be this beautiful!

The reason we went to Ruinen was that we got a gift card for a specific hotel there: Hotel de Stobbe. This hotel was the best! With super friendly staff, a swimming pool, a sauna, and a super cozy café, it made us feel really welcome!

So we went looking for things to do, and found quite a lot of nature we could hike:

• National park Dwingelerveld
• The blue lake
• Boomkroonpad
• Drentse hunebedden (dolmens)
• Bosbergtoren in Drents-Friese Wold

All these places are super unique in their own way. In Dwingelerveld you can walk among hundreds of sheep and the blue lake is just a magical place, especially in autumn when the leaves on the trees start to color.

At the Boomkroonpad you can walk a certain path high up in the trees, which is so much fun! And at the Bosbergtoren you can get an extraordinary view of the surrounding areas from a huge tower!

One thing Drenthe is pretty well known for is Hunebedden, which you may know as Dolmens. A Hunebed is kind of a special tomb made of huge boulders.

And you’ll find them everywhere in Drenthe. To see where they are, you can just type in ‘’Hunebed’’ on Google Maps.

Nature in Drenthe is truly an amazing thing, but I can imagine you’re getting a bit tired of hiking after a day or 2. If you like shopping or walking through towns, I recommend visiting Assen or Hoogeveen. These are some super cute towns I visited that really left an impression on me.

Ruinen is an amazing hidden gem in the Netherlands and absolutely perfect for a weekend getaway from Amsterdam!

Valkenburg

Time from Amsterdam: 2,5 hours

Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Scheepers

Valkenburg is a stunningly charming town, just outside the city of Maastricht. It’s a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway!

I visited Valkenburg multiple times and was always impressed with the hospitality of the people. I remember the feeling I had the first time I visited. Being from Amsterdam, I’m used to the city and the surrounding countryside. The south of Limburg, where Valkenburg is located, felt like a foreign country to me.

This picturesque town is full of history and culture and offers lots of activities.

You can wander along cobblestone lanes, admire the historic buildings, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the town.

One of the main attractions of Valkenburg is its beautiful castle ruins. The castle was built in the 12th century and served as a fortification for the town. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the castle and the town.

But the romantic atmosphere doesn’t stop there. Take a stroll through the charming streets, where you’ll find an abundance of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants offering delicious treats and drinks perfect for sharing with your loved one.

The caves in Valkenburg are also a must-see. These limestone caves have been transformed into fascinating underground worlds filled with mystery. The romantic lighting in these caves makes them the perfect spot for couples to explore hand in hand.

Valkenburg is an ideal romantic destination with its charming streets, historical sites, and enchanting natural beauty. Whether you’re in search of a peaceful and intimate getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, Valkenburg is sure to exceed your expectations and is one of the best weekend trips from Amsterdam.

The Efteling

Time from Amsterdam: 1,5 hours

Where to stay: Stella Suites Boutique Hotel

If you’re looking for a fun and magical weekend away in The Netherlands, you can’t miss the Efteling. The most famous theme park in the country is located in Kaatsheuvel, Northern Brabant which is just a stone’s throw away from Breda, Tilburg, and Antwerp.

Rather than just some fun rides, the park goes all-in on fairytales, creating an idyllic setting, and the attractions too are made with so much detail that you’ll feel in a different world!

If you like adventure, I can definitely recommend The Flying Dutchman, Python, or Baron 1898. Smaller kids (and adults too!) will love a walk through the Fairytale Forest and make it a sport to throw away their trash in the mouth of ‘Holle Bolle Gijs’ who keeps on saying Papier hier (paper here) – at least, that’s what I did as a kid.

Don’t miss out on the Aquanura show at the end of the day. I bumped into it by accident, but the spectacular light and water show accompanied by Efteling melodies is well worth staying around for 30 minutes more.

If you’re staying for the weekend, you’ll have different options, but the most magical will be in one of the fairy-tale-themed suites. This is definitely one of the best weekend trips from Amsterdam.

Conclusion: Best Weekend Trips from Amsterdam

In this post, I have shown you the best weekend getaways from Amsterdam. Whether you are craving a long weekend on a beach or a fun city trip – there is something to do for everyone.

Visiting Scheveningen, Zandvoort, Bergen or Ameland is the perfect choice for a long, romantic weekend on the beach. For more adventure head out to Ruinen in Drenthe or the Efteling.

Don’t forget to visit one of the fabulous Dutch cities, like Rotterdam or Den Bosch, on your weekend getaway from Amsterdam.

If you are planning to stay in Amsterdam after all, check out my favorite things to do in Amsterdam in Spring.

Another cool trip you can take from Amsterdam is to visit Brussels in March.