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TravelVacation

by Sana Bun

Escaping Heat: Exploring the Netherlands Beyond Amsterdam

16 Jun 2025

Photo: Nathalia Morales

From the moment I came to Amsterdam for the very first time, I fell completely in love with the city and kept coming back again and again. Becoming a local a couple of years ago changed things — in the best way — and made me appreciate the fairytale architecture, the cosy, easy-going vibe, and the vibrant art scene even more. But it also nudged me to look beyond the canal district, Jordaan, and Museumplein.
In this guide, I am sharing a handful of hidden gems where you can soak up a truly local vibe. So, if you are up for a day trip beyond the capital, here is my list of a few spots definitely worth a visit.

Getting around

The Netherlands is wonderfully compact — you can cross the whole country in just a few hours. Add to that a well-organised, easy-to-navigate public transport system, and exploring beyond Amsterdam becomes a breeze.
One of the best things? You usually don’t need to book a specific train in advance. Just check the schedule, head to the station, and go to the platform your train leaves from — simple as that.
You can get yourself an OV-chipkaart, a top-up travel card that works on metros, buses, trams, and even intercity trains. Or just use your contactless bank card or phone. Make sure you tap in and out with the same card at the start and end of your journey — otherwise you might get charged extra (or get confused looks from locals).
Fancy more freedom? Renting a car is also a great option, especially if you are planning to explore the countryside, coastal towns, or harder-to-reach nature spots.
And let’s not forget the most Dutch way to get around — by bike. You will find rental options in most towns, and some places are even close enough to cycle to from Amsterdam.
Now, let’s dive into the best things to discover!
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Source: brasseriepaardenburg.nl

Ouderkerk aan de Amstel

If you are after a taste of the Dutch countryside without actually leaving Amsterdam, Ouderkerk aan de Amstel is just the spot. And trust me — this is the route best done on two wheels.
For an easy ride, rent a bike near RAI Station and follow Amstel river. You will pass the edge of Amstelpark, grazing cows, old windmills (including the 17th-century De Riekermolen — bunny spotting highly encouraged), until you reach the charming curve of Amstelzijde, dotted with waterside restaurants.
Wander through the village and stop for lunch at Paardenburg — a farmhouse dating back to 1594 that became a tavern in 1693 and still welcomes guests today. On the same street, you will find the Michelin-recognised Ron Gastrobar Indonesia and Heisa, a great spot with a solid menu.
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Source: over-amstel.com

If you are in the mood for something even more special, cross to the other side of the river and cycle back towards Amsterdam, stopping at Over-Amstel Boerderij — a working farm with a garden, cheese factory, and cosy farm-to-table restaurant. Best to book ahead for that one.
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Photo: Dirk J. van der Veen

Katwijk aan Zee

In need of some sea air minus the crowds? Look no further than Katwijk aan Zee — a former fishing village turned laid-back coastal escape.
Unlike its better-known neighbours, Katwijk keeps things simple: wide sandy beaches, dunes to wander (or cycle through), and a relaxed local vibe. It is the kind of place where you can stroll the promenade, admire centuries-old houses people still live in, watch the sunset from a beach café, or simply zone out to the sound of waves.
While you are here, don’t miss out on traditional Dutch street food. Head to the Harteveltvis stand for what might just be the best kibbeling (deep-fried cod) in the Netherlands.
If you fancy a bit of culture with your coastline, pop into the Katwijks Museum — a charming mix of local history and art, including works from the town’s former artist colony. Just around the corner, you will find the white, octagonal Andreaskerk from the 15th century, and the old lighthouse keeping watch over the shore.
Katwijk is easy to reach by bus from Leiden or by car, with plenty of parking near the beach — including a handy underground lot.
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Photo: Ziyi Zhu

Giethoorn

Ready to try another type of transport? In Giethoorn, cars are out and boats are in. This charming little village in the province of Overijssel is crisscrossed with canals instead of roads.
Rent a whisper boat (no licence needed!) and glide past thatched-roof cottages, wooden bridges, and lush gardens. You can also explore on foot or by bike, but seeing it from the water really is the magic touch.
Best visited on a weekday if you can — it gets busy in summer — and easily reachable by train and bus from Steenwijk, or by car if you don’t mind the extra leg. Just be prepared to swap four wheels for a paddle.
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Photo: Puybrun

Edam

Craving something cute, quiet, and unapologetically into cheese? Edam has got you.
It is bite-sized, easy-going, and perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Just a quick trip from Amsterdam, this canal-lined town has a deep love for its round red-waxed namesake — and isn’t shy about it.
Wander past gabled houses, pop into family-run cheese shops for samples (yes, you can and should), and if you’re around in summer, catch the cheese market where locals re-enact the good old dairy days with surprising enthusiasm.