15-Day Summer Explorer: Solo Travel Itinerary Through the Netherlands

Day 1: Arrival & Canal Tour

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 19, 2025

11:00am

Check-in & Settle

Arrive at your accommodation in Amsterdam. Take time to unpack and freshen up after your journey.
EUR0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pancakes Amsterdam

Enjoy Dutch pancakes with a modern twist in a cosy setting, open from 9:00am to 7:00pm, perfect for your first meal in the city.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Canal Cruise

See Amsterdam from the water on a 1.5-hour canal cruise. It's a fantastic way to get oriented with the city’s historic canals and architecture.
EUR20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll & Explore Jordaan District

Wander through this charming neighbourhood full of boutiques, art galleries and cafes. Ideal for light walking in summer weather.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at De Reiger

Enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine with a contemporary touch in this highly rated restaurant, open until 10:00pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 2: Museums & Parks

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters

Start your day with a hearty brunch-style breakfast blending Dutch and New Zealand flavours. Opens 8:00am.
EUR18, 1h0m

10:00am

Rijksmuseum Visit

Explore the Netherlands’ premier art museum, featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR20, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Rijksmuseum Café

Relax at the museum’s café, with light lunch options perfect for recharging.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Vondelpark Walk

Enjoy an afternoon walk in Amsterdam’s largest city park. Cycle paths, ponds and summer outdoor theatre create a lively atmosphere.
EUR0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Foodhallen

Sample a variety of street food from multiple vendors in this indoor food market open until 11:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 3: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans

Zaandam, Netherlands on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading out for your day trip.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Zaanse Schans

Take the train or bus (approx. 40 mins) to Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum featuring traditional windmills and crafts.
EUR7, 0h40m

10:00am

Explore Windmills & Workshops

Visit working windmills and artisan workshops including wooden shoe and cheese making. Open 9:00am - 6:00pm.
EUR15, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at De Kraai

Enjoy Dutch pancakes with views of the river at this local pancake house, open until 5:00pm.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk Along the Canals & Museums

Discover quaint streets, traditional houses, and visit the Zaans Museum to learn about local history.
EUR12, 2h0m

5:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back to Amsterdam to relax after your excursion.
EUR7, 0h40m

7:00pm

Dinner at Café de Klos

Taste delicious ribs and hearty Dutch fare at this popular eatery, open till 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 4: Art & History

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Stach

Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries to start your day, open 8:00am.
EUR12, 0h45m

9:30am

Van Gogh Museum

Explore the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh paintings. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
EUR19, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Blushing Amsterdam

Try healthy salads and fresh juices at this trendy spot near Museumplein.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Anne Frank House

Pre-booked entry to this moving museum at the secret annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary. Open 9:00am to 10:00pm.
EUR14, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Café Winkel 43

Famous for the best apple pie, perfect for an afternoon coffee break.
EUR8, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ron Gastrobar

Experience casual fine dining with innovative dishes in a relaxed setting, open until 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 5: Rotterdam Urban Exploration

Rotterdam, Netherlands on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Rotterdam

Depart from Amsterdam by train (approx. 40 minutes).
EUR15, 0h40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Picknick

Enjoy a healthy breakfast and great coffee at this vibrant spot, open from 8:00am.
EUR14, 1h0m

10:30am

Markthal & Cube Houses

Visit the iconic Markthal for food stalls and shops, then admire the quirky Cube Houses nearby. Open 10:00am to 8:00pm.
EUR0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Foodhallen Rotterdam

Sample a variety of international dishes from local vendors in this popular food market.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Explore collections ranging from medieval to contemporary art. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR17, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along the Erasmus Bridge

Enjoy an evening stroll with views of the iconic bridge and the modern skyline.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at De Matroos en Het Meisje

Savour inventive Dutch small plates in an intimate setting, open till 10:00pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

9:00pm

Overnight in Rotterdam

Check into accommodation for a restful night before exploring more.
EUR0, 8h0m

Day 6: The Hague Culture

The Hague, Netherlands on June 24, 2025

8:30am

Travel to The Hague

Short train trip from Rotterdam to The Hague (~20 mins).
EUR7, 0h20m

9:00am

Breakfast at Bij te Lekker

Enjoy fresh and wholesome breakfast options in this cosy spot.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:30am

Mauritshuis Museum

View Dutch Golden Age paintings including Vermeer’s 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
EUR16, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Plein 1813

Enjoy a relaxed lunch terrace with traditional Dutch dishes.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Binnenhof & Hofvijver

Explore the historic parliamentary complex and scenic pond ideal for summer photos.
EUR0, 1h30m

3:45pm

Beach Time at Scheveningen

Take a tram to the coast (approx. 15 mins) and enjoy a sunny beach walk or relax at a beach café.
EUR3, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Simonis aan de Haven

Taste the freshest seafood dishes right by the harbour, open till 10:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

9:00pm

Return to Rotterdam

Train back to Rotterdam to rest.
EUR7, 0h20m

Day 7: Delft & Utrecht

Delft & Utrecht, Netherlands on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Depart Rotterdam for Delft

Short train ride of about 15 minutes to historic Delft.
EUR6, 0h15m

8:00am

Breakfast at 't Groot Politiehof

Relax with a traditional Dutch breakfast in Delft’s lively square.
EUR14, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Delft Old Town & Nieuwe Kerk

Visit the iconic church with its royal tombs and stroll the canals and markets.
EUR6, 2h0m

11:45am

Delftware Factory Visit Royal Delft

Tour the famous blue pottery factory and see artisans at work. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Bier Fabriek Delft

Enjoy an informal lunch with craft beers brewed on site.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:45pm

Travel to Utrecht

Train ride approximately 25 minutes to Utrecht.
EUR8, 0h25m

3:15pm

Utrecht Canal Walk & Dom Tower

Stroll medieval canals with wharf cellars and climb Dom Tower for panoramic views. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR12, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at De Zakkendrager

Enjoy classic Dutch regional dishes alongside the canal, open till 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

8:00pm

Overnight in Utrecht

Stay overnight to enjoy the city atmosphere in the evening.
EUR0, 8h0m

Day 8: Haarlem & Local Museums

Haarlem, Netherlands on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Train to Haarlem

Travel from Utrecht to Haarlem (~40 mins).
EUR12, 0h40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Hofje Zonder Zorgen

A charming café known for fresh breakfast and peaceful courtyard garden.
EUR14, 1h0m

10:30am

Frans Hals Museum

Visit the museum dedicated to the master Dutch Golden Age painter, indoors and air-conditioned. Open 11:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR15, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Jopenkerk Brewery

Enjoy hearty food and craft beer in a former church building, open 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
EUR22, 1h0m

2:15pm

Walk Around Grote Markt & Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Explore the lively market square and the stunning medieval cathedral, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Haarlemmerhout Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk or find a shady spot to relax in Haarlem’s oldest park.
EUR0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant ML

Michelin-starred dining experience with fresh local ingredients. Reserve ahead. Open until 10:00pm.
EUR70, 1h30m

8:30pm

Return to Utrecht

Train back for overnight stay.
EUR12, 0h40m

Day 9: Giethoorn - Venice of the North

Giethoorn, Netherlands on June 27, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Giethoorn

Early train and bus combination (about 2.5 hours) to reach this picturesque water village.
EUR30, 2h30m

10:00am

Breakfast in Giethoorn at De Grachthof

Enjoy breakfast by the canals in this popular café, open from 8:30am.
EUR15, 1h0m

11:30am

Boat Rental & Village Exploration

Rent an electric boat or join a guided boat tour to explore Giethoorn’s canals and natural beauty.
EUR25, 3h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant De Lindenhof

Experience fine dining in a tranquil countryside setting, open till 5:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk to Beulakerwijde Lake

Enjoy a short scenic walk by the nearby lake, perfect for photos and relaxation.
EUR0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Return to Utrecht

Travel back for overnight stay.
EUR30, 2h30m

Day 10: Leeuwarden & Friesland Culture

Leeuwarden, Netherlands on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Train to Leeuwarden

Depart early by train (approx. 2 hours) to the capital of Friesland province.
EUR35, 2h0m

10:00am

Breakfast at Stadscafé de Gekroonde Leeuw

Start your day with a local breakfast in the historic city centre.
EUR14, 1h0m

11:30am

Discover Fries Museum

Explore Frisian history and culture in a modern museum, open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
EUR12, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Het Vliegende Paard

Enjoy hearty seasonal dishes in this cosy local eatery, open until 4:00pm.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:30pm

Climb the Oldehove Tower

Climb this leaning medieval tower for panoramic views across Leeuwarden and beyond. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
EUR7, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk around the Canals & City Centre

Enjoy the relaxed vibes with many charming cafés and shops perfect for wandering.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant WOON

Dine in style with contemporary Frisian cuisine and local ingredients, open till 10:00pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

9:00pm

Overnight in Leeuwarden

Rest after a full day of discovery.
EUR0, 8h0m

Day 11: Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen

Near Leeuwarden, Netherlands on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up early for a day in nature.
EUR10, 0h30m

8:45am

Travel to De Alde Feanen National Park

Short bus or taxi ride (around 30 minutes) to this beautiful wetland park famous for boating, birdwatching and walking.
EUR10, 0h30m

9:30am

Boat rental or Guided Canoe Tour

Explore the park’s lakes and canals by boat or join a guided canoe trip for wildlife spotting.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature – consider picking up supplies in Leeuwarden before arrival.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walking Trail & Birdwatching

Explore marked walking paths offering peaceful views and opportunities to see rare birds and flora.
EUR0, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Leeuwarden

Travel back for a restful evening.
EUR10, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Proefverlof

Contemporary menu with Frisian influences in a welcoming setting.
EUR38, 1h30m

Day 12: Return to Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 30, 2025

9:00am

Train back to Amsterdam

Morning train journey (approx. 2 hours) back to your starting city.
EUR35, 2h0m

11:30am

Brunch at CT Coffee & Coconuts

Eat in a trendy space in a former cinema, offering tropical-inspired brunches, open from 8:00am.
EUR18, 1h0m

1:00pm

Visit the NEMO Science Museum

Interactive and fun museum ideal for summer with rooftop terrace views, open 10:00am to 5:30pm.
EUR17.50, 3h0m

4:30pm

Shopping and Walk in De Negen Straatjes

Explore these charming nine streets full of independent shops, cafés and galleries.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moeders

Traditional Dutch home cooking in a quirky setting decorated with photos of mothers worldwide, open until 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 13: Day Trip to Keukenhof & Lisse Gardens

Lisse, Netherlands on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Keukenhof

Bus or guided tour from Amsterdam to the famous flower gardens (marking early summer bloom). Approx 40 mins travel.
EUR25, 0h40m

9:00am

Visit Keukenhof Gardens

Marvel at vast colourful flower displays including tulips, lilies, and orchids. Open 8:00am to 7:30pm.
EUR22, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Keukenhof Restaurant

Convenient dining with Dutch and international options inside the park.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Cycle Around Lisse Countryside

Rent a bike to see nearby flower fields (rental approx. EUR12/hr), a highlight of Dutch summer.
EUR12, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back in the late afternoon to enjoy the evening in the city.
EUR25, 0h40m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Feast on fresh seafood in a lively Amsterdam location, open until 11:00pm.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 14: Leisure & Departure Prep

Amsterdam, Netherlands on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at De Laatste Kruimel

A favourite for baked goods and coffee, open from 8:00am.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Hortus Botanicus

Enjoy a relaxed morning in this historic botanical garden, perfect for gentle walking, open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Greenwoods

Light lunch or afternoon tea in a charming canal-side setting.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shopping and last stroll in De Pijp

Explore this vibrant neighbourhood for unique souvenirs and summer street life.
EUR0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Early dinner at Bazar Amsterdam

Eclectic spot offering North African and Middle Eastern dishes, open until 10:00pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

7:00pm

Pack & Rest

Prepare for departure the next day with a relaxed evening at your accommodation.
EUR0, 2h0m