15-Day Summer Itinerary for a Solo Traveler Exploring the Netherlands

Day 1: Arrival and Amsterdam Intro

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 19, 2025

10:00am

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into your hotel or hostel in central Amsterdam to start your exploration from a convenient base.
EUR0, 1h0m

11:00am

Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam

Enjoy traditional Dutch pancakes that are a perfect light and fresh way to start your day.
EUR10, 1h0m

12:30pm

Anne Frank House

Visit the historic house where Anne Frank wrote her diary. Booking in advance is essential. Experience a poignant glimpse into history.
EUR14, 1h30m

2:30pm

Canal Boat Tour

Take a relaxing 1-hour boat tour through Amsterdam’s famous canals and enjoy views of beautiful architecture and waterways.
EUR18, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Jordaan Neighbourhood

Wander through this charming area filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. Ideal for solo travellers to soak in the calm atmosphere.
EUR0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moeders

Savour traditional Dutch home cooking in a cosy setting, perfect for a solo diner seeking authentic flavours.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 2: Cultural Highlights Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with New Zealand and Brazilian influences, well-loved for fresh produce and great coffee.
EUR12, 1h0m

10:00am

Rijksmuseum

Explore Dutch Golden Age masterpieces including Rembrandt’s Night Watch in this renowned museum open from 9am to 5pm.
EUR20, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Foodhallen Amsterdam

Taste a variety of dishes in a trendy indoor food market ideal for a solo traveller wanting a casual try of multiple cuisines.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Van Gogh Museum

Admire the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s art. The museum is open from 9am to 6pm so late afternoon is perfect to avoid peak times.
EUR19, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk in Vondelpark

Relax in Amsterdam’s largest city park, great for an outdoor stroll amidst locals and tourists enjoying summer.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at De Kas

Experience farm-to-table dining in a greenhouse restaurant focusing on fresh local ingredients, open until 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 3: Zaanse Schans and Haarlem

Zaanse Schans & Haarlem, Netherlands on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast at your accommodation before the day trip.
EUR0, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Zaanse Schans

Take a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, famous for its historic windmills and traditional crafts.
EUR8, 0h30m

9:45am

Explore Zaanse Schans Windmills

Visit working windmills, wooden shoe factories, and cheese farms. The site opens early and is perfect in good summer weather.
EUR10, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at De Kraai

Try delicious Dutch pancakes near the windmills offering a scenic dining experience.
EUR18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Travel to Haarlem

A quick 15-minute train journey brings you to Haarlem, an historic town with a relaxed vibe.
EUR6, 0h30m

2:00pm

Visit Frans Hals Museum

Discover masterpieces by famous Dutch painters including Frans Hals, with the museum open until 5pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

3:30pm

Wander Grote Markt

Explore the lively square with its cafes and Gothic architecture, a perfect spot for a solo traveller to relax.
EUR0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Train back to Amsterdam to prepare for the evening meal.
EUR6, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Café de Klos

Enjoy a hearty Dutch steak dinner in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere favourable for solo travellers.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 4: Alkmaar and Cheese Market

Alkmaar, Netherlands on June 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for an early start with a good breakfast.
EUR0, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel to Alkmaar

Take the train to Alkmaar (about 40 min), famous for its traditional cheese market, held on Fridays.
EUR15, 0h40m

9:30am

Alkmaar Cheese Market

Watch traditional cheese trading demonstrations and enjoy the lively market atmosphere, lasting until noon.
EUR0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Stadsgenoot

Relax with a tasty local lunch featuring Dutch classics in the town centre.
EUR18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Beatles Museum

Enjoy this quirky museum dedicated to The Beatles’ time in the Netherlands, great for music fans.
EUR10, 1h0m

3:00pm

Canal Walk and Photo Opportunities

Stroll along Alkmaar’s picturesque canals, perfect for peaceful solo exploration in summer sunshine.
EUR0, 1h0m

4:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Train ride back to Amsterdam to rest and prepare for dinner.
EUR15, 0h40m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Seafood Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes in a stylish setting near Amsterdam's centre.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 5: Giethoorn Village

Giethoorn, Netherlands on June 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Get ready early for the full-day excursion to the renowned 'Venice of the North'.
EUR0, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel to Giethoorn

Train and bus journey taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach this charming canal village famous for its no-car policy.
EUR25, 2h30m

10:30am

Explore Giethoorn Village

Rent a small boat or join a guided boat tour to discover the village's canals, bridges, and thatched-roof houses unlike anywhere else.
EUR15, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at De Grachthof

Enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine with beautiful water views in a relaxed environment.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus

Learn about the history and culture of Giethoorn in this small museum.
EUR5, 1h0m

3:30pm

Nature Walk or Bike Ride

Explore nearby wetlands and nature reserves for a peaceful summer afternoon surrounded by greenery.
EUR10, 2h0m

5:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Train and bus journey back to Amsterdam for your overnight stay.
EUR25, 2h30m

8:30pm

Light Dinner at Foodhallen

A casual meal with a choice of international cuisines, ideal after a long day of travel.
EUR15, 1h0m

Day 6: Historic Utrecht

Utrecht, Netherlands on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Village Coffee & Music

Enjoy excellent coffee and breakfast items in a welcoming spot popular with locals.
EUR12, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel to Utrecht

A quick 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam brings you to this charming historical city.
EUR10, 0h30m

9:45am

Dom Tower Climb

Climb the tallest church tower in the Netherlands for panoramic views of Utrecht and beyond. Open from 10am.
EUR9, 1h15m

11:30am

Walk Oudegracht Canal

Stroll along the scenic canal lined with historic wharf cellars converted into cafés and shops.
EUR0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Broodje Mario

Famous for affordable and delicious sandwiches, perfect for solo travellers seeking quick but tasty food.
EUR8, 1h0m

2:00pm

Centraal Museum

Art and history museum with local art and exhibits about Utrecht’s past; visit from 11am to 5pm.
EUR14, 2h0m

4:30pm

Café Culture

Relax in one of the many canalside cafés to watch the world go by and reflect on your day.
EUR5, 1h0m

6:00pm

Travel back to Amsterdam

Return to Amsterdam to enjoy your evening.
EUR10, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Bistro Belcampo

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local and seasonal ingredients in a friendly atmosphere.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 7: Day in Arnhem

Arnhem, Netherlands on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Get ready with a wholesome breakfast for the day trip.
EUR0, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel to Arnhem

Take a 1.5-hour train heading east to Arnhem, a city known for its WWII history and parks.
EUR20, 1h30m

10:15am

Open Air Museum

Visit this large museum displaying Dutch life through the ages, offering immersive historical experience open 10am to 5pm.
EUR18, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at De Steenen Tafel

Dine in this cosy café popular for its fresh sandwiches and salads.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:45pm

Burgers’ Zoo Visit

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a visit to one of Europe’s best zoos, featuring naturalistic habitats. Open until 6pm.
EUR25, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Evening train back to the capital for your overnight stay.
EUR20, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pasta e Basta

End the day with Italian music and pasta flavours in a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for solo travellers.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 8: Keukenhof Gardens and Lisse

Lisse, Netherlands on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before heading out to the world-famous floral gardens.
EUR0, 0h45m

7:45am

Travel to Lisse

Take a train and bus to Lisse, about an hour’s journey for Keukenhof, confirming summer opening hours; note the seasonal availability.
EUR15, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Keukenhof Gardens

Spend a peaceful morning wandering one of the world’s largest flower gardens, enjoying vibrant colourful displays.
EUR20, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Brasserie Meer & Duin

Relax with views of countryside surroundings while enjoying light Dutch-inspired fare.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Lisse Village

Walk around this quaint village with its shops and peaceful streets, soaking up local culture.
EUR0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back to Amsterdam to continue your journey.
EUR15, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Thrill Grill

Enjoy gourmet burgers with an innovative twist in a casual setting.
EUR20, 1h0m

Day 9: Beach Day at Scheveningen

Scheveningen, Netherlands on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Amsterdam

Fuel up early for a day by the sea.
EUR0, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Scheveningen

Take a train and tram (approx. 1 hour) to Scheveningen, the popular beach district of The Hague.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:30am

Beach Relaxation and Swimming

Enjoy the sun and sea on the wide sandy beach, ideal for solo travellers looking to unwind during summer.
EUR0, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Simonis aan Zee

Taste fresh seafood with a view overlooking the water in this renowned eatery.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk the Pier and Visit Sea Life Scheveningen

Explore the iconic pier and visit the aquarium to see local and exotic marine life, open until 5pm.
EUR18, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Travel back to Amsterdam for the evening.
EUR15, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Indonesian Restaurant Blauw

Experience a traditional Indonesian rijsttafel, reflecting the Netherlands’ colonial history, a delicious choice for dinner.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 10: Museum Day Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Stach

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee in a relaxing atmosphere.
EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Hermitage Amsterdam

Discover art, culture, and history from the Russian Hermitage collection, open 10am to 5pm.
EUR20, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Café de Jaren

Dine at this spacious café with a terrace overlooking the river Amstel.
EUR18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Contemporary Art at Moco Museum

See works from Banksy and other contemporary artists in a boutique museum open till 7pm.
EUR18, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Rembrandtplein

Enjoy the lively square filled with cafes and street performers, perfect for people watching.
EUR0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening Canal Walk

Experience the beauty of illuminated canals during summer evenings.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Greetje

Taste authentic Dutch dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients in a charming setting.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 11: Day Trip to Delft

Delft, Netherlands on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare with a good breakfast for your day trip to Delft.
EUR0, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Delft

A 1-hour train ride to the picturesque town famous for its blue pottery and historic old town.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:15am

Visit Royal Delft Pottery Factory

Tour the factory and museum to learn about the famous Delft Blue pottery, open from 9am to 5pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Café de Oude Jan

Enjoy Dutch snacks and light meals in a historic café near the Oude Kerk.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Stroll Through Delft Old Town

Explore the charming streets, canals, and markets with lots of solo traveller-friendly spots.
EUR0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Nieuwe Kerk

See this impressive Gothic church, climb the tower for beautiful views. Open until 5pm.
EUR10, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Train back to Amsterdam with plenty of time for dinner.
EUR15, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Dutchess

Experience a glamorous dining experience featuring Dutch cuisine with a twist.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 12: Leisure in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands on June 30, 2025

9:00am

Brunch at Omelegg

A popular spot famous for creative omelette dishes - perfect for a leisurely start.
EUR15, 1h0m

10:30am

Houseboat Museum

Tour a unique houseboat and see life on Amsterdam’s canals. Open from 10am to 5pm.
EUR7, 1h0m

12:00pm

Shopping in De Negen Straatjes

Explore nine picturesque streets filled with quirky boutiques, cafes, and vintage stores, ideal for casual browsing.
EUR0, 2h0m

2:00pm

Visit Hortus Botanicus

Relax in one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, great for a calm afternoon outdoors.
EUR10, 1h30m

3:30pm

Coffee Break at Back to Black

Enjoy expertly brewed coffee in an intimate artisanal café setting.
EUR5, 1h0m

5:00pm

Early Evening Relaxation

Return to accommodation to rest before your evening out.
EUR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ciel Bleu

Treat yourself to fine dining with spectacular views at this 2-Michelin star rooftop restaurant, reservation required.
EUR120, 2h0m

Day 13: Maastricht Day Trip

Maastricht, Netherlands on July 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before heading south for a longer day trip.
EUR0, 0h45m

7:45am

Travel to Maastricht

Catch a high-speed train or combination of trains to Maastricht, approximately 2.5 hours journey.
EUR40, 2h30m

10:30am

Explore Maastricht Old Town

Wander historic streets, the Vrijthof square, and St Servaas Basilica in this vibrant city with a mix of Dutch and Belgian culture.
EUR0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bijzonder

Enjoy contemporary dishes with local ingredients in a stylish bistro setting.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Bonnefanten Museum

An impressive art museum focusing on contemporary and old masters, open until 5pm.
EUR15, 1h30m

3:45pm

Walk Along the River Maas

Enjoy a scenic and peaceful walk along the riverbank before travelling back.
EUR0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Amsterdam

Begin your journey back for your final night in the capital.
EUR40, 2h30m

8:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Restaurant Breda

Celebrate your trip with a modern fine-dining experience highlighting Dutch cuisine.
EUR60, 2h0m

Day 14: Departure Day

Amsterdam, Netherlands on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Amsterdam with relaxed preparations for departure.
EUR0, 1h0m

9:30am

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Take a stroll around local shops near your accommodation to pick up gifts and keepsakes.
EUR20, 1h0m

11:00am

Pack and Check-out

Prepare your belongings and check out from your accommodation on time.
EUR0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Travel to Amsterdam Airport

Take public transport or taxi to the airport to start your journey home or onwards.
EUR15, 0h45m