5-Day Relaxed Itinerary in The Netherlands: Charming Cities and Countryside

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands on March 10, 2025

10:00AM

Check into Hotel

Arrive in Amsterdam and settle into your hotel, getting ready to explore the city.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Canal Ring Exploration

Stroll through Amsterdam's iconic Canal Ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to enjoy the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

01:30PM

Lunch at Café de Jaren

Savor a delicious light lunch at this popular café with a beautiful terrace overlooking the canal.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

02:30PM

Boat Tour

Take a leisurely boat tour through the canals to discover the city from a unique perspective.
CURRENCY18, 1.5 hours

04:00PM

Explore the Jordaan District

Wander through the charming Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets and independent art galleries.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

06:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Greetje

Enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine at Restaurant Greetje, highlighting local ingredients and recipes.
CURRENCY40, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Giethoorn and Surroundings

Giethoorn, Netherlands on March 11, 2025

08:00AM

Travel to Giethoorn

Leave Amsterdam early to maximize your day in the scenic village of Giethoorn.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

09:30AM

Explore the Canals by Boat

Rent a boat to cruise the enchanting canals of Giethoorn, known as the 'Venice of the North.'
CURRENCY15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through the Village

Wander the quaint pathways lined with thatched-roof houses immersed in nature.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

01:00PM

Lunch at De Grachthof

Enjoy a hearty lunch at this lovely restaurant featuring local dishes and beautiful views over the canals.
CURRENCY20, 1 hour

02:30PM

Visit Weerribben-Wieden National Park

Take a scenic hike or bike ride in this national park, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.
CURRENCY0, 3 hours

05:30PM

Dinner at De Witte Huis

End your day with dinner at De Witte Huis, known for its cozy ambiance and excellent local dishes.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

07:00PM

Return to Amsterdam

Head back to Amsterdam after a fulfilling day in Giethoorn.
CURRENCY20, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Zaanse Schans and Edam

Zaanse Schans, Netherlands on March 12, 2025

08:00AM

Travel to Zaanse Schans

Depart from Amsterdam for the picturesque village of Zaanse Schans, famous for its historic windmills and wooden houses.
CURRENCY10, 30 minutes

08:30AM

Explore Zaanse Schans

Visit the traditional windmills, cheese shops, and clogs-making demonstrations at this open-air museum.
CURRENCY20, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Travel to Edam

Short trip to Edam, a charming town known for its famous cheese market.
CURRENCY5, 15 minutes

11:15AM

Canal Walk in Edam

Wander along the scenic canals of Edam, and take in the picturesque views and unique architecture.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

12:15PM

Lunch at Edammer Cheese Café

Enjoy a light lunch featuring local cheeses and delicious sandwiches at this cozy café.
CURRENCY18, 1 hour

01:15PM

Visit Edam Cheese Market

If it's Wednesday, witness the vibrant Edam Cheese Market that celebrates the town’s rich cheesemaking tradition.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

02:15PM

Return to Amsterdam or Stay Overnight in Edam

Either head back to Amsterdam or enjoy an overnight stay in Edam to soak up more local culture.
CURRENCY5, 30 minutes

07:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant De Eetkamer

This quaint restaurant serves classic Dutch dishes in a homely setting, perfect for ending your day.
CURRENCY35, 2 hours

Day 4: Haarlem and Surrounding Countryside

Haarlem, Netherlands on March 13, 2025

09:00AM

Travel to Haarlem

Depart Amsterdam for Haarlem, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture.
CURRENCY10, 30 minutes

09:30AM

Visit Frans Hals Museum

Discover the works of the famous Dutch painter Frans Hals in this splendid museum.
CURRENCY15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll the Historic Center

Wander the cobbled streets and admire the historic buildings, including the magnificent Grote Kerk.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Café Briljant

Enjoy a delightful lunch at this local café, known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
CURRENCY20, 1 hour

01:30PM

Bike Ride in Countryside

Rent bikes to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside of Bloemendaal and beyond.
CURRENCY10, 2.5 hours

04:00PM

Visit Keukenhof Gardens (if in Spring)

If visiting in spring, don’t miss the breathtaking flower displays at the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens.
CURRENCY20, 2 hours

06:00PM

Dinner at Hofje van Wissem

Dine at Hofje van Wissem which offers delicious dishes with seasonal produce in a charming setting.
CURRENCY35, 2 hours

Day 5: Utrecht and the Dutch Countryside

Utrecht, Netherlands on March 14, 2025

09:00AM

Travel to Utrecht

Head to Utrecht, a vibrant city known for its canals and rich history.
CURRENCY10, 30 minutes

09:30AM

Explore the Canals

Stroll along Utrecht's unique canals and enjoy the lively atmosphere along the waterfront.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Dom Tower

Climb to the top of the iconic Dom Tower for stunning views of the city.
CURRENCY12, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Broodje Mario

Try a famous Utrecht sandwich at Broodje Mario, known for its delicious homemade options.
CURRENCY15, 1 hour

01:30PM

Bike Ride to Oudewater

Rent a bike and ride to the nearby charming village of Oudewater, known for its historical significance.
CURRENCY10, 2 hours

03:30PM

Visit Bunnik

Explore the quaint village of Bunnik with its lovely rural surroundings.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

05:00PM

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back to Amsterdam for your departure or an additional night to explore more.
CURRENCY10, 30 minutes

07:00PM

Dinner at The Pantry

Enjoy a comforting dinner at The Pantry, where you can savor traditional Dutch favorites.
CURRENCY35, 2 hours