the hague day trip from rotterdam

• International
• Politics & Society
• Photo Report
• Relationships
• Learn Dutch
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Scheveningen
• International Travel
• Bank for Internationals
• Dutch Language School
• International School
• Recruitment Agency
• Relocation Service
• Real Estate Agencies
• Tax Accountant
• Mortgage Advisor
• Psychologist
• DutchReview Team
• Privacy Policy
• Take Down and Notice
• Advertise with DutchReview
• Submit an article
• Editorial Internships

🚀 New feature alert! Find the best businesses for internationals on  DutchReview's Business Directory

21 epic day trips from Rotterdam: the ultimate guide

Venture out of the city and explore ✨

Rotterdam — a city where everyone loves to rave about the quirky new-age architecture , its multicultural quotient, and the resilience and ‘realness’ of the Rotterdammers.

But living in a city you love should not stop you from exploring places around it, because you never know what you’ll find.

I’ve been living here for the past few years, so here’s my list of the 21 best day trips you can take from Rotterdam! 

1. Delft: a city steeped in history

2. dordrecht: the oldest city in holland, 3. de biesbosch: one of europe’s largest freshwater tidal wetlands, 4. schiedam: the gin capital of the world, 5. plaswijckpark: rotterdam’s backyard, 6. hoek van holland: rotterdam’s very own beach, 7. kinderdijk: the iconic windmill park, 8. the hague and scheveningen: a great summer getaway, 9. voorlinden: the famous museum in wassenaar, 10. leiden: the city of arts and sciences, 11. keukenhof: the garden of europe, 12. gouda: home of the delightful cheese, 13. utrecht: the city of literature, 14. amsterdam: the famous dutch capital, 15. tilburg: city with a hip urban scene, 16. efteling: a fairytale paradise, 17. oosterschelde: netherlands’ largest national park, 18. hoge veluwe: a national park in the east of the netherlands, 19. nijmegen: the oldest city in the netherlands, 20. maastricht: a place to see medieval monuments, 21. belgium: a roadtrip to the neighbour, how to get around the netherlands for day trips, day trips from rotterdam: frequently asked questions.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement .

Day trips less than 30-minutes from Rotterdam

Perhaps you’re in the mood for a quick and refreshing jaunt to clear your head in the middle of a stressful week?

Well, you’re in luck, because these day trips are less than 30 minutes away from Rotterdam and are sure to give you a much-needed mood boost! 💪

Delft is one of the most easily accessible day trip destinations from Rotterdam. Don’t be fooled by its seeming similarity to other Dutch towns — Delft really is something special .

The city has a lot to offer to people who are looking for a bit of history (after all, it is the place where Willem van Oranje was shot), a bit of old Dutch architecture, and a whole lot of fun.

There are plenty of things you can do for free , making it the perfect day trip destination for those trying to travel on a budget. You can even cycle (or walk) here from Rotterdam to save some extra cash! 🤑

🚗 Travel time by car: 25 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 11 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Oude & Nieuwe Kerk (churches), Prinsenhof, Oostport

Did you know that Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland? (Yes, Holland, not the Netherlands ). It’s also actually the fifth largest city in the province of South Holland — but still has that typical Dutch small-city charm.

You’ll find quintessentially Dutch things here, from long winding canals and row houses to interesting monuments and museums giving testament to the prosperous history of this city on the water. There’s plenty to explore on your day trip to Dordrecht .

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 15 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Grote Kerk (church), Dordrechts Museum, Het Hof van Nederland

Located just outside of Dordrecht, De Biesbosch is one of the Netherlands’ biggest national parks.

The park is basically a freshwater delta that is made up of 8,000 hectares of small streams and rivers — and one of few freshwater tidal wetlands in the world.

You’ll find hundreds of bird species, including kingfishers, ospreys, and wild-taled eagles, as well as De Biesbosch’s icon — the beaver. Discover the park on foot or by bike, or inspect the wildlife up close in a canoe.

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Try and count how many different wildlife species you can spot!

Have you ever taken a day trip to Schiedam from Rotterdam? Not yet? That is hard to believe because it is one of the easiest to get to and the closest places to visit from the city!

If you just hop on the green, yellow, or red metro line at Beurs, you’ll reach Schiedam city centre in about 15 minutes!

The town has some of the best windmills, and it’s the gin capital of the world. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

🚗 Travel time by car: 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 5 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: De Noord windmill, National Jenever Museum, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

Another fun day trip from Rotterdam option can be found pretty much right here on the outskirts of the city and is guaranteed to be one of the best places to spend a day with your family.

It’s on the very edge of Rotterdam North — so it’s very easy to reach.

Founded in 1923, Plaswijckpark has evolved into one of the most fun dagje uit activities when the sun is shining.

While this small-scale amusement park doesn’t have the extravagance of Efteling, it does have everything you need to make sure it’s an interesting day for you and your little ones.

🚗 Travel time by car: 13 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 25 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Just let your children pick the attraction they love the most!

Day trips less than one hour from Rotterdam

Perhaps you’ve got a bit more time on your hands and are looking for the perfect way to spend an afternoon?

We feel you, so we’ve compiled a list of day trips less than an hour away from Rotterdam’s bustling heart! 👇

Hoek van Holland is technically part of the Rotterdam municipality. However, the vibe couldn’t be more different from the one in the city itself.

Think cute coastal town with a vast beach, amazing sand dunes, and beach bars and clubs to enjoy a drink or two. It’s a great place to unwind and escape the busyness of day-to-day city life.

Take your fiets with you and cycle around to get a proper taste of the area. Hoek van Holland is also a great day-trip destination for a little hike or nature walk .

🚗 Travel time by car: 31 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 58 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Just grab a drink in one of the bars and enjoy the scenic views

Who doesn’t have windmills on their list of things to see in the Netherlands? Well, Kinderdijk is the perfect place to go to to check this item off that list.

Windmill parks have long existed in the Netherlands to harness sustainable energy — and Kinderdijk is one of the two most well-known parks in the country, with thousands of visitors flocking to the site every year.

A lot of people debate on whether it’s better than Zaanse Schans (as did we), so why don’t you do a little day trip from Rotterdam and find out for yourself?

🚗 Travel time by car: 32 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 58 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Nederwaard Museum Mill, Blokweer Museum Mill

No list of day trips from Rotterdam is complete without a mention of The Hague . A city known for embassies and government buildings, the political capital of the Netherlands is just a stone’s throw away from Rotterdam.

Want to see not only The Hague but the entire Netherlands in one day? Dat kan .

The interactive miniature park Madurodam will give you a small taste of a country that is already arguably rather small and let you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the lowlands.

If the sun is shining, make sure to pack your swimsuits! Scheveningen is one of the best beaches in the Netherlands , and you don’t want to miss it.

Stroll along the busy pier and gaze out into the sea on a warm day, or enjoy some of the other free things The Hague has to offer.

If you’re interested in the underwater world, visit Sea Life , a huge aquarium where you can learn about 150 different species of fish they have in there.

🚗 Travel time by car: 24 minutes to The Hague Central Station, 31 minutes to Scheveningen 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 29 minutes to The Hague Central Station, 50 minutes to Scheveningen ⭐ Don’t miss: The Mauritshuis, Binnenhof, The Peace Palace, Sea Life, Madurodam, Scheveningen Pier

A really interesting day trip you can take from Rotterdam is to Museum Voorlinden — a contemporary art museum surrounded by beautiful forests, a carefully landscaped garden, a restaurant, and amazing art to really open up your mind.

Like with any other museum, there are permanent as well as temporary exhibitions. You can easily get to this stunning area by car or by public transport.

Simply head to the museum’s website for all the practical information you’ll need to get there.

🚗 Travel time by car: 34 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 1 hour and 7 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich

We have a personal bias when telling you about this cosy student town (after all, it is our headquarters), but Leiden truly has a lot to offer to its visitors.

This quintessential Dutch town is packed with great museums , such as the Naturalis, the National Museum of Antiquities , and the Volkenkunde Museum , just to name a few!

You can also sign up for the Rembrandt Experience , a specially curated route to learn about all things Rembrandt from times when he lived in Leiden.

READ MORE |  A local’s guide to Leiden: the best places to eat, drink, and shop

If you’re more into innovation and entrepreneurship, check out PLNT Leiden (our home base with a killer rooftop with chickens).

🚗 Travel time by car: 35 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 34 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Hortus Botanicus, Naturalis, Molenmuseum De Valk

Thousands of tourists always flock to the Netherlands to experience the famous tulip season — and what better place to do this than the famous Keukenhof , one of the largest flower gardens in the world?

Beautiful fields filled with thousands of colourful bulbs are a real treat for the eye, and should not be missed by anyone! If you’re more of a budget traveller, there are also countless tulip fields around Keukenhof that you can enjoy for free.

How? You’ll have to travel there to find out! 😉

🚗 Travel time by car: 53 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 1 hour and 10 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: It’s not just Keukenhof — you’ll find countless beautiful flower fields in this region

If you’re looking for a day trip from Rotterdam that even the Wikipedia page recommends, then Gouda is the place for you.

The city is famous for various things like its cheese (of course, you’ve heard of Gouda, the cheese!) and its amazing Dutch architecture.

The city is easily reachable by car or public transport and if you’re feeling particularly fit, you can even hop on a bike for one and a half hours, and you’re there!

Go to the Gouda cheese market and relish in one of the Dutch addictions or wander around the city centre and explore the Sint Janskerk and the famous city hall. Gouda also has plenty of other gorgeous buildings.

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 18 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Gouda Cheese Market, Sint-Janskerk (church), Gouda Town Hall

The city that is the hardest to pronounce , Utrecht is your perfect getaway if you are tired of visiting crowded tourist places.

We like to call it mini Amsterdam — Utrecht is a great alternative for those wanting to sail along canals, ride through small Dutch streets, and enjoy a drink on the terraces without the hustle and bustle of the capital.

The city has been dubbed the UNESCO City of Literature and spoken word events and book readings happen almost daily. On top of that, Utrecht has the iconic Dom Tower with amazing views. It’s currently under renovation, but you can still go inside .

Venture outside the city and head to one of the Netherlands’ iconic castles , the neo-gothic De Haar. The oldest building dates back to the 14th century, and the castle gardens stretch out for acres and host a number of events throughout the year.

🚗 Travel time by car: 57 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 36 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Dom Tower, Rietveld Schröder House, Hoog Catharijne

Aah, good ol’ Amsterdam! A city that’s on everyone’s “Dutch cities to visit” list, the capital has evolved into a top tourist destination . It is a burgeoning city that continues to grow, attracting tourists, Dutchies, and expats alike.

Take a boat ride around the city , visit the many museums (such as the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum), check out the botanical gardens, or enjoy one of the many parks. There are so many things to do in Amsterdam !

Discover the best coffeeshops  (of course, following the rules for smoking weed ) and ease those munchies in one of the many great restaurants in Amsterdam .

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 1 minute 🚆 Travel time by train: 41 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: ARTIS Royal Zoo, Anne Frank House, Albert Cuyp Market, Zuid-Kennemerland National Park

Tilburg may be small, but it sure is a dynamic day trip destination. The city is known for repurposing its old buildings in the edgiest ways — like the LocHal , an old industrial locomotive hall turned into one of the best libraries in the world .

Whether you’re after cultural experiences , like festivals and museums (it has three great ones!), lush nature walks , or even a longer staycation , Tilburg has it all.

Our personal tip? Rent an e-scooter and discover Tilburg’s magical murals — you’ll never look at graffiti the same.

End your day with a cocktail at the Doloris rooftop bar or add an extra fun factor to your day trip from Rotterdam by experiencing their out-of-this-world maze.

Not your thing? Venture to the largest wildlife zoo in the Benelux, the Safaripark Beekse Bergen . It’s open all year round and easily explored by boat, bus, your own car, or even on foot.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 38 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: LocHal, Spoorpark, Spoorzone, Textielmuseum

Who loves a good fairy tale? 🙋‍♀️ If you do, then Efteling is the place for you. This popular theme park is centred around well-known fairy tales with plenty of activities on offer, whether you have kids — or you’re just a child at heart yourself.

Ride the roller coasters, enjoy theatre performances, or try out the 18-hole golf course! Efteling also has its very own holiday resort, so you could always turn it into a weekend trip.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 2 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 1 hour and 27 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Fairytale Forest, Baron 1898

Day trips over an hour from Rotterdam

Of course, we couldn’t conclude this article without a little something for your weekend away bucket list. 😉

The largest national park in the Netherlands is just an hour-long drive away from Rotterdam!

What makes it so special? Every time you visit, it will look completely different because of the changing tides. Even better, the park is home to various animals and plants, making it a place no nature-lover should miss.

Oosterchelde has cruises to take you around as well as plenty of walking trails — so get out your hiking boots, there’s a whole lot for you to explore. You might even spot some porpoises out in the waters if you’re lucky!

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 12 minutes

Hoge Veluwe is one of the largest continuous nature reserves in the country. It has a varied topography with everything from lush green forests to high sand dunes and is home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna.

As you would expect, the place has a great infrastructure for cyclists. Drive to one of the entrances at Otterlo ,  Hoenderloo , or  Schaarsbergen , and then make your way through the park with your bike.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 2 hours and 3 minutes

A city whose history goes back over 2,000 years , Nijmegen is definitely one of the most unique destinations for a day trip from Rotterdam.

Follow the traces of the Romans or savour a walk through one of the local vineyards (with small breaks to also enjoy this drink, of course). 🍷

If you’re more into trendy boutique shops, Nijmegen has that too! After a long afternoon of shopping, head to the Kronenburgerpark to relax or take in some views of the city from the popular Waalkade.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 26 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 1 hour and 42 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Stevenskerk, Kronenburgerpark, Rivierpark, Waalkade

A popular student city , Maastricht is located on the southernmost edge of the lowlands. It’s a great day trip destination with cute cobbled streets, medieval monuments, and pretty parks.

From a Roman settlement to a medieval centre of religion, to a thriving cultural hub, the capital of Limburg has plenty to offer, whether it’s architecture, great food, or tranquil nature spots .

READ MORE | A day trip to Maastricht: what to see, do, and eat

Enjoy a cruise on the river Maas or discover the famous caves of Mount Saint Peter from the 13th century.

🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 2 hours and 16 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Vrijthof, Wyck, Helpoort, Maastricht caves

Looking for a quick road trip outside of the Netherlands for a day? The great thing about living in a small country with good infrastructure is that you can easily visit the neighbours.

Belgium is famous for great waffles, refreshing beer, and of course, the chocolate! Whether it’s Antwerp , Mechelen , or Brugge , there are a number of beautiful towns to choose from.

The best part? They are all just a short drive from Rotterdam — and easy to get to by bus or train as well, especially if you travel with Thalys. Some other cities you shouldn’t miss include, of course, Ghent and Brussels.

Mechelen: 🚗 1 hour and 37 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 8 minutes Antwerp: 🚗 1 hour and 50 minutes, 🚆 32 minutes Ghent: 🚗 2 hours and 5 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 35 minutes Brugge: 🚗 2 hours and 22 minutes, 🚆 2 hours and 3 minutes Brussels: 🚗 2 hours and 28 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 21 minutes

Wondering how to get to all these epic day trip destinations from Rotterdam? With the country’s great infrastructure, you’ve got multiple options:

Going with OV — the Dutch public transport system

One of the easiest ways to get around the Netherlands and tackle distances that aren’t manageable by bike is public transport. The majority of Dutch cities have trains, trams, and buses, and some even have metro and ferries.

A great option is to get a day ticket which sometimes combines travel to a particular destination with, for example, a visit to an attraction or a meal.

Another great way to travel is with an OV chip card. Simply top up your balance and use the card on all forms of public transport. With a personal OV chip card , you may even be able to snag some extra discounts.

Driving around Dutch cities, towns, and national parks

For places that are a bit further away and not easily accessible by public transport (such as many of the Netherlands’ nature spots), a car might be your best bet.

You can make use of one of the five major car rental companies — Avis Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt — or see what other options are out there. Perhaps you can even carpool !

Though be aware, for certain destinations, going by public transport or bike is actually faster than going by car.

Hop on your bike and explore Rotterdam’s surroundings

No article about day trips from Rotterdam would be complete without mentioning the good ol’ fiets — and with good reason.

Cycling is the cheapest way to get around most Dutch cities and villages, and it ensures the true Dutch experience. If you have extra time and want to get some fitness in, head to places like Delft, Hoek van Holland, or Kinderdijk by bike.

Don’t have your own? Geen probleem ! With a personal OV chip card, you can pick up an OV-fiets from one of the many Netherlands train stations and rent it for a few hours at a time. Rotterdam also has a wide range of shared e-bikes and scooters .

Where is the best place for a day trip from Rotterdam?

Depending on your preference and style of travelling, there is a number of wonderful day trip destinations.

Delft and Dordrecht are perfect if you’re looking for quintessential Dutch charm. Hoek van Holland and Scheveningen are two amazing beaches well suited for a summer day trip.

Fancy a city trip or a nature escape instead? Dat kan. The Hague, Utrecht, Leiden, and Amsterdam are just a stone’s throw away and there are beautiful national parks within an hour’s drive from Rotterdam.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting?

With its epic modern skyline , Rotterdam is different from any other place in the Netherlands. This makes it a unique travel destination you should definitely not miss — especially as there are many things in the city you can do for free .

How many days should I spend in Rotterdam?

If you’re short on time, one day will be enough to get a quick glimpse of Rotterdam’s main attractions, such as the Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, or Cube Houses.

Three days is a recommended time if you really want to get a feel for the city and venture beyond the city centre.

You’ll be surprised by how much there is to see in Rotterdam, from the diverse and different neighbourhoods to lush parks and nature areas .

How do I spend a day in Rotterdam?

Start your Rotterdam day trip at the central station and slowly make your way into the city centre.

Stop by the Laurenskerk, the city’s famous church with a fascinating history, and continue to Markthal to grab a refreshment in one of the food shops and restaurants.

Step into the mindblowing Cube Houses and enjoy a drink at the adjacent Oude Haven (Old Port) where you’ll find Europe’s first skyscraper, the Witte Huis.

Stroll along the river Maas and admire Rotterdam’s famous bridges, including the Erasmus Bridge and De Hef, or visit one of the many museums.

Finally, end your day with some bird’s eye views of Rotterdam from the Euromast observation tower.

Is it better to stay in Rotterdam or Amsterdam?

While both cities have a unique character and things to see, Rotterdam is definitely the cheaper one of the two.

Rotterdam is where you want to be if you’re into bold modern architecture and authentic Dutchness. For cute picturesque canals, Amsterdam is the best bet.

Rotterdam is also more suitable if you’re looking for a base to visit the Netherlands’ neighbours, Belgium and Germany, from.

If you don’t feel like travelling far, there are also plenty of fun and free things to do in Rotterdam itself, as well as hidden gems and little nature escapes to keep you busy for the day.

What’s your favourite day trip from Rotterdam? Tell us in the comments below!

This article was a team effort between Jana Vondráčková and Kavana Desai. 

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Is smoking weed in amsterdam legal (+ 7 best coffeeshops), a guide to 12 breathtaking castles and palaces in the netherlands, surfing in the netherlands: where to go and what to know in 2024, what do you think.

Don’t forget to visit Breda, 20 minutes by train from Rotterdam.

Half of the places l also was lucky to visit, especially l liked Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans, can’t explain why exactly, l’m just very passionate about windmills. Thank you for the article!

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Related posts

Latest posts, linkedin revealed the best companies to work for in the netherlands — so we checked their language requirements, 11 things you should not do in the netherlands, it's happening, upcoming events, ‘in brilliant light’: marvel at contemporary african art at this exciting new exhibit, king’s day (koningsdag), how do i go about buying a house in the netherlands this free webinar lays it all out, national remembrance day (dodenherdenking), liberation day (bevrijdigingsdag), mother’s day (moederdag-bloemendag), this virtual open day will let you tour one of rotterdam’s top international schools, whit sunday (eerste pinksterdag), come closer explore interactive art from around the world in antwerp, father’s day, the latest dutch news. in your inbox., woah, you look pretty good here.

We're constantly hunting for the latest, greatest, and most Dutch spots for our readers. Want your business to reach an unrivalled expat and international audience?

We like you - a lot

© 2023 All Rights Reserved. All material on this website (DutchReview) is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. If you are dissatisfied with the website or any content or materials on it, your sole exclusive remedy is to discontinue your use of the website. The website may provide links to other websites on the Internet, the content of which is not in our control. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for omissions and errors. If you have found material on this website which is copyrighted by others, please contact the webmaster on this matter in order to have it removed.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

One day in the Hague: An resident’s itinerary to a perfect day trip to the Hague

April 10, 2018 by Karen Turner 10 Comments

You might have heard of the Hague. The Hague is the former capital of the Netherlands as well as my home. Quite a few friends have asked about taking a day trip from Amsterdam to the Hague and what to do in one day in the Hague. Here’s my resident’s guide to one day in the Hague with the perfect itinerary for exploring the Hague on foot. I include a self-guided walking tour with a map to help you see the best of the Hague.

The Hague is often overlooked by visitors to the Netherlands as well as local visitors as there’s a perception that it’s boring and there’s not much to do in the Hague.  Since moving here, I have to disagree and I must say the Hague is a beautiful culture-rich city with a lot to do/see.

I’ve tried to highlight my favorites in this one day itinerary to the Hague, but you can read more tips for visiting the Hague here . If you’re looking for a good base for your trip to the Netherlands , the Hague is only forty minutes from Amsterdam , fifteen minutes from Delft , and thirty minutes from Rotterdam.    You can read about more day trips from Amsterdam here .

• 0.0.1 What to do in the Hague in one day: Your itinerary for one day in the Hague
• 0.1 Take the train to Den Haag HS or Den Haag Centraal
• 0.2 Breakfast in the Hague
• 0.3 Bubble Tea in Chinatown
• 0.4 Taste jenever at Van Kleef Distillery, the oldest distillery in the Hague
• 0.5 Explore the UNESCO-recognized Passage
• 0.6 View the Binnenhof
• 0.7 Walk along Noordeinde
• 0.8 Optional: Buy abbey produced beer
• 0.9 View Noordeinde Palace
• 0.10.1 Lunch at FOAM or Pizzeria II Vesuvio
• 0.11 View the Peace Palace
• 0.12 Option 1: Go to the Mauritshuis
• 0.13 Option 2: Scheveningen
• 0.14 Option 3: City Exploring on foot
• 0.15 Explore the Zeeheldenkwartier
• 0.16 Peek in the Hofjes of the Hague
• 0.17 Explore the stalls Haagse Markt
• 0.18 Dinner
• 0.19 Enjoy cocktails or beer (or non-alcoholic beverages) at a local bar
• 0.20 Where to stay in the Hague
• 1 Have you been to the Hague? Let me know what you thought of my one day itinerary to the Hague

What to do in the Hague in one day: Your itinerary for one day in the Hague

Breakfast in the hague, bubble tea in chinatown, taste jenever at van kleef distillery, the oldest distillery in the hague, explore the unesco-recognized passage, view the binnenhof, optional: buy abbey produced beer, view noordeinde palace.

• Walk down Lange Voorhout

View the Peace Palace

• Have lunch at FOAM

Option 1: Go to the Mauritshuis

Option 2: scheveningen, explore the zeeheldenkwartier, peek in the hofjes of the hague, explore the stalls haagse markt.

• International food for dinner (Indonesian/Surinamese/Dutch)

Enjoy cocktails or beer (or non-alcoholic beverages) at a local bar

Map of my self-guided walking tour of the Hague at the bottom!

Take the train to Den Haag HS or Den Haag Centraal

People are often confused by the train stations in the Hague.  There’s two main stations as well as a handful of stations around the Hague.  Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll stop off at Den Haag HS (Hollands Spoor) or Den Haag Centraal .

Den Haag HS is the oldest railroad station in the Netherlands dating back to the 1800s and there’s a secret waiting room where the King of the Netherlands can only access.  I find the station particularly beautiful, so be sure to admire it for a moment.

Both stations are fine to get off at and both are about the same (ish) distance from the historic center of the Hague.  If you’re not as keen on walking, I think that Den Haag Centraal makes it easier to find the trams that go directly into center. That said, I think that you’ll find better breakfast options near Den Haag HS.  I start this self-guided walking tour of the Hague close to Den Haag HS, but you can easily start it wherever you want.

• Pim Coffee & Vintage
• Scally’s
• Bagels & Beans

If you’re looking for some of the best breakfast options in the Hague, you really need to look close to Den Haag HS as my favorite breakfast places in the Hague are here.  Club Vers  is perfect for those who love to eat healthy and/or have dietary restrictions. I absolutely love their creative healthy waffles. 

For coffee and a little treat in the morning, I recommend the pastries at  Pim Coffee & Vintage , an adorable cafe with fantastic coffee (veggie friendly) and amazing cakes.  Click for my guide to the best brunch and breakfast in the Hague.

For the full English breakfast, check out  Scally’s for a ridiculously reasonable full English breakfast (they call it the Scallywich) and/or authentic British scones with a lot of character (think giant portraits of William & Kate).  Otherwise, Bagels & Beans (by Spui) is an easy option.  For just coffee, read my post of the best cafes in the Hague.

The Hague has the largest Chinatown in the Netherlands partially due to immigration after World War II and although this whole neighborhood surprises a lot of people who visit, you can find some great Chinese food here.

As you might have already had breakfast, I recommend stopping off for Bubble Tea. My favorite flavor is with mango or apple and I love the bubbles that pop in your mouth.

Van Kleef Distillery i s the oldest and only remaining distillery located in the Hague. This historic distillery dating back to the 1800s is not producing liquors at the location itself anymore due to the risk of fire, however it’s worth stepping into this stunning historic shop for a tasting. 

For fifty cents, you can try a number of different types of traditional Dutch alcohols .  I know that it’s early, but I especially love the Voorburg spirit as well as the Kruide Baggah. They accept credit cards.

The Passage is a UNESCO recognized building in the Hague.  This shopping arcade predates the covered passages in Paris  and it has some architecturally distinct qualities. I just enjoy walking through this stunning passage and stopping for a coffee at a cozy cafe .

The Binnenhof is where Dutch parliament is located. Although the capital of the Netherlands is now in Amsterdam, many of the government buildings remain in the Hague.  The Binnenhof was originally a mansion owned by Count Floris IV in 1229, which stands next to the lake that you still see today.  Starting in 1446, this building as used for Dutch Parliament and under the occupations of the Netherlands by other countries, the Binnenhof grew into the beautiful castle that it is today.

If you’re on bike or on foot, you can actually walk through the Binnenhof 24/7, which is so cool.  It’s a stunning building and it’s free to admire, so be sure to explore it.  Even on a rainy day, you’ll find some shade underneath the corridors.

Walk along Noordeinde

Noordeinde is the heart of the historic part of the Hague.  This road leads to the King’s Palace and I love veering off this road for all the adorable shops in the Hague.  (I especially love stopping into the de filosoof to browse for wine and pet their cat.)  It’s just a beautiful street and you’ll understand almost immediately once you’re here.  I also love the archway by Korte Molenstraat.

If you’re visiting the Hague on a Friday or Saturday afternoon (between 1 and 4pm ), you can stop into  Kloosterbrouwerij Haagsche Broeder , a Catholic order who makes their own beer and sells it out of their cloister. 

The beer is first-rate and the monks are actually delightful to talk too.  (They speak English as well and one of them is American.)  I realize that you have to get kind of lucky to have your one day in the Hague overlap with their hours, but you can go to any of the bars down the street to buy a bottle to enjoy at the bar (including De Oude Mol ) if you miss their hours.

Noordeinde Palace is where the Dutch King’s office is located.  Yes, you read that right.  In the Netherlands, the Dutch King works on behalf of the government and he commutes to work.  You can tell if the King is in the palace if the flag is up.

Walk down Lange Voorhout & Hooikade

Before you leave this area, be sure to enjoy the stunning views of the Binnenhof close to the Hofvijver, the lake next to the Binnenhof.  In spring, you’ll find lots of flowers here, making the view of the Binnenhof only more beautiful.  Then, make a left to turn onto Lange Voorhout.

This spacious avenue used to be where to be seen if you were nobility.  Be sure to walk down Hooikade to view the prettiest canal in the Hague.  Then, admire the antique shops along Denneweg.

Lunch at FOAM or Pizzeria II Vesuvio

Stop for lunch at FOAM for a fresh, organic, and meat-free meal. FOAM is a healthy lunch place, perfect for getting a fresh salad or a healthy sandwich.  It’s super vegan-friendly and pretty affordable considering the high quality of the ingredients.

The atmosphere is quite nice, so make a reservation if you want to come here on a Saturday as it can be busy. For something a bit less healthy, stop at Pizzeria II Vesuvio for some fresh pizza at one of the best pizza places in the Hague. (They have vegan cheese! Sorry for the healthy obsession, but I’m lactose-intolerant and I  try to eat healthy.)

Afterward, stop off at the Peace Palace.  Getting a tour of the Peace Palace is fairly difficult and I detail how to get a tour of the Peace Palace here, but you can definitely admire one of the most beautiful buildings in the Hague.  Built in the 1920s by all different countries, the Peace Palace is a stunning building, even from a distance.  Even if you can’t get a tour, you can admire it by the gates.

If you’re interested in art, consider taking the tram back or walking back to the Mauritshuis to enjoy the rest of the afternoon enjoying one of the best art museums in the Netherlands.  You can see the Girl with the Pearl Earring as well as the Goldfinch here, so be sure to enjoy these Dutch masterpieces.  If you’re a fan of Vermeer, it’s also possible to visit Delft on a day trip as Delft is only fifteen minutes by train.

If it’s a beautiful summer day, consider taking the tram out to Scheveningen, the most popular beach resort in the Netherlands.  it’s a bit too far to walk, however you can hop onto a bus/tram towards Scheveningen.  Click for my guide to Scheveningen.

I recommend seeing the stunning Kurhaus as well as the Scheveningen Pier.  It’s just lovely to sit out along the beach with a cold drink while enjoying the views on a nice day.  I’m not even a beach person, but a recent trip with some friends to the beach have convinced me.

Option 3: City Exploring on foot

If you’re interested in staying in the Hague, I have a longer walking route through the Hague that will show off the most interesting neighborhoods in the Hague.  If you’re into city exploring, this itinerary for the Hague is for you.

The Zeeheldenkwartier is one of the coolest neighborhoods in the Hague.  Complete with lots of antique shops, cozy cafes, and picturesque houses, the neighborhood is just fun to walk through.  I recommend walking along Prins Hendrikstraat or Piet Heinstraat.  Both have lots of unique cafes, including the Hague’s only cat cafe.

The Hague has many hofjes, which are historic almshouses where those in need would be houses. Originally these were funded by private donors, however the hofjes in the Hague that exist today were created by the city government. Click for my secret guide to the Hague with more hofjes!

My favorite hofje in the Hague is a bit tricky to access, so I encourage you to step into the historic courtyard of  Het Hooftshofje .  The door is typically open during the day, so please be considerate/quiet as this is private property.

The Haagse Markt started in the 1920s.  This historic market is one of my favorite markets in the Netherlands.  It’s quite different than many others that you’ll encounter as it’s mostly locals grocery shopping and buying household goods.  (Bring cash if you want to shop here.) I love all the shouting and yelling of the vendors–and the whole experience of doing my weekly grocery shopping here.  Be sure to stop off for fresh stroopwafel and frites.

Note: You’ll probably want to bike or take a bus/tram back towards center after visiting the Haagse Markt as it’s a bit out of the way.  The Haagse Markt is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

You have so many great dinner options in the Hague. Moving here, I thought that the Hague would be boring and typically Dutch, however it is one of the most diverse cities in the Netherlands partially due to the fact that most of the embassies in the Netherlands are here in the Hague. As a result, you can try food from all over the world in the Hague.  Click for a guide to my favorite affordable restaurants in the Hague.

Bleyenberg is a modern Dutch restaurant right along Grote Markt, the main going out square in the Hague.  The interior is absolutely stunning and I was really impressed with the quality of the food.  Although I generally find Dutch food uninspiring, I was inspired by the flavors in the dish that I didn’t expect. They have an English menu and it’s best to make a reservation if you want to come here for dinner. Price: $$

Warung Bude Kati  is my favorite Indonesian restaurant in the Hague. This cozy family-run restaurant has some seating although it fills up quickly on the weekends. The portions are huge  and the prices are extremely reasonable.  I try a different dish almost every time that I come here and a friend who grew up in Indonesia was really impressed with how authentic the food is.  The owners are super friendly although be warned that it’s Maestro or cash only. Price: $

Warung Mini is a Javanese-Surinamese restaurant on your way back to Den Haag Centraal or HS.  This cozy and popular restaurant is definitely more casual, but it has the most famous Surinamese food in the Hague. ( Click to read more about Surinamese food and what to order here !)

Be warned that if you ask for spicy, it will be very spicy.  The prices are really affordable here, so expect to pay less than ten euros for a massive meal.  Note: They’re halal, so no beer. Price: $

I have a few favorite places to get drinks in the Hague.  All are close to the city center, but closer to the train station, perfect for a nightcap before you head out of the Hague.

Syndicaat is a vintage-inspired cocktail speakeasy in the heart of Chinatown.  Hidden behind a secret door, you’ll find the entrance to this lovely little bar, which has jazz music on weekends.  The cocktails are made with Van Kleef gin, so you can’t go wrong with a bespoke cocktail here!

De Paas is my favorite beer bar in the Hague.  This cozy brown bar along Bierkade has a great selection of local beer, knowledgeable bartenders, and a cozy atmosphere.  It’s quiet here with minimal music.  In summer, you can sit out on the boat in the canal to enjoy your beer. What else could you want? ( Click for more beer cafes in the Hague .)

Where to stay in the Hague

If you choose to stay overnight in the Hague, you’ll find lots of affordable options, especially compared to Amsterdam.  For the fanciest hotel in the Hague, stay at the historic Hotel des Indes to rub shoulders with visiting royalty.  For a modern boutique hotel, consider staying at Hotel Indigo in the heart of Noordeinde.  For something budget yet clean hotel, stay at the Student Hotel , which isn’t only for students.  There’s also a few hostels in the Hague .

Check hotel prices in the Hague now

Have you been to the Hague? Let me know what you thought of my one day itinerary to the Hague

Click for the rest of my posts about the Hague.

Click for more day trips from Amsterdam.

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

April 11, 2018 at 8:55 am

I work in The Hague quite regularly, as a lot of my clients are based there. It’s a lovely city. My friend lives in the middle of China town and I love exploring all the shops and restaurants there, it’s like a mini-vacation.

September 23, 2018 at 1:59 pm

thank you for this post! Will be visiting this lovely place in December! I will surely use this post as a guide.

July 24, 2019 at 4:59 pm

thank you so much for writing this! I’m planning to visit for one day in early August, as I wrap up my visit in Amsterdam. Can you tell me if there are souvenirs available that are specific to the parliament? I am a nerd and like to collect pens from different government agencies. 🙂 Thanks again!

July 24, 2019 at 6:24 pm

Hi Twylia, If you do a tour of the parliament, it might be possible to get a pen. I visited last year and was given a pen as it was a special event, but you might get one if you ask. I did see fancier pens on sale there, but I’m not sure how typical that is. I hope that you have a great trip and get your pen!

July 25, 2019 at 3:34 am

Thank you so much!!

August 19, 2019 at 8:50 am

I have tickets on October to see the Nederlands Dans Theatre at the Zuiderstrandtheater. I am planning on staying at the Hotel Des Indes (-or possibly the Paleis Hotel), Could you tell me the best way to get to the theatre and return on a Friday evening? Approximately how long does it take to get there? Thank you so much for your help — and your blog. I am really enjoying it, as you can see by the question and my previous one about the International Criminal Court.

August 19, 2019 at 1:50 pm

Hi Dianna, you can check Google Maps for the tram/bus schedule. I’d guess 20-30 minutes although you could always rent a bike if you want to try it out: https://localholland.com/the-hague/services-in-the-hague/rent-bike-hague/

Alternatively, a taxi is always possible. Glad to hear that!

December 29, 2019 at 7:42 pm

Karen, I was delighted to find this information to help me get from Amsterdam to the Hague, My reason for this visit is to trace family history, My father was born in the Hague and lived there until he was 13 when he moved with his family to NYC where my grandfather was going to be a professor at Columbia Univ. I have the addresses where he lived so I plan to visit those. I had been to the Hague as a child with my parents so am just interested this time in wandering around a seeing some highlights. I will be staying at the Marriott for the night. Then need to get to Schipol airport for an evening flight

December 30, 2019 at 12:43 am

Hi Brenda, I hope that you have a fantastic trip retracing your father’s steps! It’s a lovely city and I hope that you find what you’re hoping for. There is a city archive (https://www.denhaag.nl/en/municipality-of-the-hague/municipal-organisation/the-hague-city-archives.htm) that might be good to contact in advance if you are looking for anything specific. Enjoy! -Karen

[…] Binnenhof is one of the best places to see on a day trip to The Hague (known as Den Haag), which is the administrative capital of the Netherlands. Within the […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• The Netherlands
• New York State
• Other European destinations
• Work With Me
• Disclosure and Privacy Policy
• Jeju SEO Tool: Free SEO Writing Tool

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

TreasureHunter USA Inc. 251 Little Falls Drive Wilmington, Delaware 19808 +1 (915) 4632387 EIN 88-2174128

www.wanderlustingk.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also participate in other affiliate programs

www.wanderlustingk.com all rights reserved © 2023 | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy |

A Brummie Home and Abroad

Part-time Traveller, Full-Time Brummie

Delft and The Hague: Easy Day Trips from Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a wonderful city, and you can easily spend one or two days exploring everything it has to offer. But Mr Fletche and I decided to take advantage of Rotterdam’s proximity to a number of other destinations in Southern Holland, and take ourselves on a little tour. Here are two easy day trips from Rotterdam (that aren’t Amsterdam!)

The Hague (aka Den Haag)

I didn’t know much about The Hague before I started researching this trip. I knew it was where important things went down. But I didn’t know that a) its a beautiful city with a great mix of traditional and modern architecture, and b) its by the seaside. So it’s definitely a city with lots more to explore than we did in just half a day.

Getting to the Hague from Rotterdam

We took the metro all the way from Beurs in Rotterdam to Den Haag Centraal. We cheekily decided to try and use our transit ticket on the tram, only for Mr Fletche and I to be almost separated as I’m still outside and the tram spits out Mr Fletche’s ticket in disgust. So it’s back into the station to purchase a Tourist Day Ticket. Despite the website saying “Now Available at Ticket Machines” we don’t find a machine that will dispense this particular ticket. We’re getting a little frustrated with the public transport system. Not Malta disappointed , but disappointed none the less.

Eventually we ask at the Information kiosk, and we’re pointed in the direction of the Tourist Day Ticket kiosk which we’ve already walked past twice. Finally we’re clutching our tickets and we can use metro, bus and tram to our hearts content.

It’s back outside to the tram stop, where it’s only a minute wait until the next tram towards Scheveningen arrives. This time we successfully manage to board and validate our tickets. It’s a pleasant 20 minute ride. We’re not entirely sure where we’re getting off (what with there being no stop specifically called “The Seaside”) but we get off when everyone else does at a stop which looks vaguely seaside-ish. Mr Fletche uses his handy online map to find out where the sea is. Or we could have just turned around and looked behind us.

Scheveningen: Seaside at The Hague

Scheveningen is almost like a typical English seaside resort. Except without the drunken stag and hen parties. Although it is only 11am so I can’t attest for the nighttime clientele. There’s a wide golden beach with a few hardy souls dotted around (it may be a European beach but it’s not exactly Costa del Sol warm), a bustling promenade with market stalls and cafe bars lining the pavements, and a wonderful pier which wouldn’t look out of place in the U.K. There is even an entertainment complex at the end of it which looks like it could host The Krankies. Or the Dutch version (the Von Krankies?).

The pier has two decks, and the lower deck is full of cute shops, artwork and instagrammable bars and cafes. I insist on moving all the menus off the table so I can have a better backdrop for my midday Aperol Spritz.

Hofvijver: The Hague’s “Court Pond”

From Scheveningen, we take the tram back into the city proper. We intend to head straight back to the station but instead we jump off early. Partly to explore the picturesque waterside area around Hofvijver, and partly because I need the loo. McDonalds provide us with both coffee and toilet facilities. There is an amazing mix of architecture, with towering glass skyscrapers looming over beautiful historic buildings, housing museums, galleries and government offices.

Having already made plans to visit Delft we didn’t spend as much time in The Hague as we would have liked. There are beautiful shopping arcades, iconic artwork, a thriving independent food and drink scene, and of course, it is home to the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court. The Hague is definitely worth a second visit, and like Rotterdam, would make an excellent base for day trips further afield.

Located between Rotterdam and The Hague, Delft is another easy day trip. It’s less than 15 minutes by train from Centraal Station to Delft Centrum, and just a short walk to the pretty centre. With it’s tranquil canals and leafy streets, it’s like Amsterdam in miniature. Home of the iconic Delftware blue pottery, and the birthplace of Vermeer, it’s easy to be charmed by this quintessentially Dutch town

I always find that the trick to navigating a town such as this is to look for tall church spires. Law of averages says that one of these will lead you to the main square. In a compact town like Delft, we kept getting glimpses of the leaning tower of the 13th century Old Church. Of course, where there is an Old Church, there is also likely to be a New Church. Our path to this leads us to Markt and it’s fancy renaissance-style City Hall. But not before we pay a visit to House of Frites for a ketchup-slathered late lunch.

We wind our way through the centre, peering into shop windows, strolling along cobbled pathways, avoiding cyclists as we go. Eventually we come across a busy square, tables and chairs under a canopy of trees, sunlight casting dappled shadows over the afternoon revellers. It’s definitely beer o’clock. The thickness of the beer menu is immediately familiar to us, this must be a Belgian beer establishment. Indeed it is. This is the Belgian Beer Cafe Belvedere on Beestenmarkt. The perfect place to reflect on the day’s adventures over a beer or two.

Delft is a compact city, and it’s easy to explore in an afternoon. However with so many cosy cafes, inviting looking restaurants and quirky independent shops it would be very easy to lose track of time. It’s a town made for meandering with no particular place to go.

Getting around in the Netherlands

Trains in the Netherlands are cheap, frequent and a very convenient way to travel. We found getting to and from Schiphol, Amsterdam and Rotterdam extremely easy, and trains are well-connected to smaller towns too. We bought most of our tickets using self-service machines; there were also manned ticket booths at most major stations. You can also use the Trainline app to book tickets in advance or on-the-day.

Other easy day trips from Rotterdam include Gouda, Leiden, Utrecht & Gouda, as well as the windmills of Kinderdijk.

Want to read more about our trip to Rotterdam? Or about our 2012 Amsterdam city break?

24 hours in Rotterdam: A Brummie Home and Abroad City Guide

AirBnB Review: Staying on a Barge in Rotterdam

A Long Weekend in Amsterdam

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running

Share this:

• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Threads (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Similar Posts

A Croatian Roadtrip: Makarska to Zadar

Subtitled “Never trust your Sat Nav. Or always trust your Sat Nav. But never change your mind during a trip…it will take its revenge”

USA Sept 2010 – Walking, big hills, more walking…. Discovering San Francisco

It’s Saturday morning, it’s 8:30am, it’s time to discover San Francisco! Of all the places visited on this road trip, it was deciding on an “itinerary” for our two full days in San Francisco which gave me the biggest headache. The city has so many iconic “must-sees” that it became something of a nightmare putting…

A New Years Getaway at Wildernest

We decided to take a weekend away in early January to blow away the festive cobwebs…

50 (ish) Things To Do in Birmingham City Centre

From saucy crazy golf to ancient artefacts, and from bulls in fancy dress to theatres in pubs… there are so many things to do in Birmingham City Centre that you never need to utter the words “I’m bored” again. Here are 50 (ish) suggestions for you.

6 Reasons to visit Playa Del Carmen in Mexico

Ma and Pa Lee are considering a holiday in Mexico. Here are my 6 reasons to visit…

Swimming in waterfalls at Krka National Park

Do you love waterfalls? Do you love waterfalls that you can SWIM in? Then you’ll love Krka..

One Comment

These are great ideas for day trips – wish I’d done these when I was in Rotterdam

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Netherlands Day Trip: Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague From Amsterdam

[This article contains affiliate links to trusted parnters.]

My husband and I visited the Netherlands for the first time last September. We were on the second part of our honeymoon and arrived by the Thalys high-speed train from Paris . We wanted to take a day trip during our four days in the Netherlands, so we chose a Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam , which can be found on Viator.

Our Review of the Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam on Viator

We were staying near the Amsterdam Centraal Station in the northern district of Amsterdam , so we needed to take the free ferry shuttle to Buiksloterweg. There are two ferries that transport pedestrians, bicyclists, and mopeds every 5 minutes. Once you reach the southern district of Amsterdam, it’s a short walk to the meeting location; THIS IS HOLLAND, an iconic circular building you can’t miss.

We skipped breakfast but hoped to find nourishment at the meeting location. We wanted to grab a bite and coffee at the cafe in the THIS IS HOLLAND building. However, our tour departed at 9 AM, and the cafe did not open until 10 AM. Our tour guide informed us that there was a supermarket around the corner, which ended up being a better option– we could grab a few snacks for the day trip ahead.

One-Hour Road Trip From Amsterdam to Rotterdam with a 75-Minute Boat Tour

At 9 AM, we boarded a luxury Mercedes minivan with one other couple. Our first stop was Rotterdam which took around one hour to reach. Our tour guide was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, pointing out important landmarks and providing us with interesting information about the Netherlands. Once we arrived in Rotterdam, our tour guide took us to a great spot for a few photos.

Havenrondvaart Spido Rotterdam Boat Tour

The 75-minute Spido boat tour along the Nieuwe Maas was excellent! Our tour guide did not attend, but the boat tour was narrated. There was plenty of seating to take in all of the incredible sights. From beautiful modern architecture and old windmills to views of the largest port in Europe, the Spido boat tour was quite enjoyable.

Port of Rotterdam

The Port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest ports in the world, located in the Dutch city of Rotterdam. It is a hub for cargo transportation, handling over 470 million tons of cargo annually. The port has a deep-water access and is well-equipped with modern facilities, making it a key player in global trade. The port has a diverse range of industries including container terminals, oil refineries, and chemical plants. It also has a thriving fishing industry and a cruise terminal.

Rotterdam Windmills

Rotterdam, like Amsterdam, also has a rich history of windmills. However, unlike Amsterdam, most of the old windmills in Rotterdam have been destroyed or demolished due to the city’s rapid expansion and modernization.

There are only a few remaining windmills in Rotterdam today, including the Kinderdijk windmills, which are located in the nearby town of Kinderdijk. This group of 19 windmills is considered one of the best-preserved mill colonies in the world and is a popular tourist destination. The Kinderdijk windmills are also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing their importance as an example of traditional Dutch water management and technological innovation.

Erasmusbrug Cable Bridge

The Erasmus Bridge, also known as the Erasmusbrug, is a cable-stayed bridge located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. It spans the Nieuwe Maas river and connects the northern and southern parts of the city. The bridge was designed by the Dutch architect Ben van Berkel and completed in 1996. It is one of the landmarks of Rotterdam and a recognizable symbol of the city’s modernization and growth.

The Erasmus Bridge is a unique and innovative design, with a striking asymmetrical pylon that is 138 meters tall and a distinctive white color. The bridge has a total length of 807 meters and a main span of 139 meters, allowing for ships to pass beneath it. It is also a busy thoroughfare for cyclists, pedestrians and cars, serving as a major connection for residents and visitors alike. The Erasmus Bridge is considered one of the most beautiful bridges in the Netherlands and is a popular tourist attraction in Rotterdam.

Twenty-Minute Drive From Rotterdam to Delft with Roughly 2 Hours to Explore

Our drive from Rotterdam to Delft was only twenty minutes. Delft, Netherlands, is famous for its blue and white pottery. Our first stop was the De Candelaer delftware factory, where we were given a guided tour by the owner, Steffan.

Delftware Factory Tour

Steffan, a 4th generation potter, told us there are only two factories left in Delft that handcraft their pottery from start to finish. We bought jewelry, a decorative plate, and a few other treasures that Steffan shipped to the U.S. for us.

De Candelaer Potter and Painter

Delftware is famous for its intricate and detailed designs, which often depict landscapes, portraits, and historical scenes. The most common motifs in Delftware include landscapes, biblical scenes, allegorical figures, and portraits of Dutch citizens. Delftware became popular throughout Europe and was exported worldwide, becoming a symbol of Dutch culture and craftsmanship. Today, Delftware remains a popular collectible item and is widely appreciated for its historical significance and artistic value.

Café Willem van Oranje in Delft, Netherlands

Our tour guide highly recommended Café Willem van Oranje for lunch. The weather was decent, so we sat outside to watch the families enjoying the nearby carnival. My husband ordered a lamb burger and a Delftsche beer, while I ordered the Kroketten and a pickled onion salad. We enjoyed every bite.

Kroketten are a type of snack food that originated in the Netherlands. They are deep-fried, cylindrical rolls made of a mixture of mashed potatoes, beef or veal ragout, breadcrumbs, and spices. The mixture is shaped into small rolls, breaded, and then deep-fried until golden brown. Kroketten are typically served hot as a snack or appetizer, often accompanied by mustard or mayonnaise.

Exploring Delft, Netherlands

After lunch we walked around admiring the picturesque canalside, cobbled streets, and beautiful architecture. From the iconic old and new churches to green canals and slanted houses, every corner of this city offered something unique. With its calm atmosphere and mesmerizing scenery, Delft was a delight to explore.

Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and Oude Kerk (Old Church) are two historic churches located in the city of Delft, Netherlands. The Nieuwe Kerk, which is also known as St. Ursula Church, was built in the 15th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Netherlands. The church is renowned for its beautiful stained-glass windows and its magnificent wooden roof, which features intricate carvings and is considered one of the largest and most impressive in the world.

The Oude Kerk, on the other hand, is the oldest church in Delft, dating back to the 13th century. It is known for its simple and elegant architecture, as well as its beautiful stained-glass windows and historic tombstones. The church is also famous as the final resting place of several prominent Dutch figures, including the painter Johannes Vermeer and the scientist Antoni van Leeuwenhoek.

Green Canals

The green canals in Delft are a unique and iconic feature of the city’s landscape. The canals are characterized by their distinctive green color, which is due to the presence of algae and other aquatic plants that grow in the slow-moving waters. The green canals are an important part of Delft’s history and heritage, serving as a reminder of the city’s past as a center of trade and commerce.

The green canals in Delft are surrounded by historic buildings, many of which date back to the 17th century. These buildings, along with the green waters of the canals, create a picturesque and charming atmosphere that is unique to the city. Today, the green canals are a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire the city’s beautiful scenery and rich history. The green canals are also popular for boating, with many locals and tourists enjoying leisurely boat rides through the city’s waterways.

Blauwe Hart

The Blauwe Hart is a neighborhood in Delft, Netherlands, known for its distinctive blue heart-shaped park. The Blauwe Hart is located in the southern part of Delft and is surrounded by residential areas, shops, and cafes. The park is a popular gathering place for local residents and visitors, who come to enjoy its peaceful surroundings and well-manicured gardens.

20-Minute Trip From Delft to The Hague with a 1-Hour Driving Tour

This part of the trip was mainly a driving tour because everything was spread out. However, our tour guide allowed us to make requests for stops. We drove through neighborhoods and saw several of the 110 embassies at The Hauge. The other couple we were traveling with requested a visit to the Peace Palace — home to the International Court of Justice. By this time, it had begun to rain, and we were all exhausted, so we started our 45-minute drive back to Amsterdam.

Final Thoughts on Our Rotterdam, Delft, and Hague Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam

The final verdict? We thoroughly enjoyed this small-group tour through South Holland. If you are visiting Amsterdam and looking for a good day trip, check out this Rotterdam, Delft, and Hauge Tour from Amsterdam !

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Rotterdam, Delft and the Hague Day Trip from Amsterdam

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, Prins Hendrikkade 59-72, 1012 AD Amsterdam, Netherlands Hotel Barbizon Palace near Amsterdam Central Station
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Peace Palace
• Vermeer Centrum Delft

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace Prins Hendrikkade 59-72, 1012 AD Amsterdam, Netherlands Hotel Barbizon Palace near Amsterdam Central Station See address & details
• 1 Erasmus Sculpture Stop: 3 hours See details
• 2 Markthal Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 3 Vermeer Centrum Delft Stop: 2 hours See details
• 4 Peace Palace Stop: 60 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• fourscorep 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome experience with an awesome tour guide! This was an amazing experience. We went from Amsterdam to Giethoorn with a small group (6 of us total) in a van. Our tour guide was awesome! He knew the country, and he treated us like family. This was the best day of our week in the Netherlands! Read more Written April 28, 2024
• Pravindra 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic day out in Netherlands One of the best tours, very well organised. Got a bit confused about the meeting point (I m a bad navigator and got nervous) so called the tour organisers a day before at 7pm, he answered promptly and explained where to go and assured me that it would be ok to call him again early morning if I got lost, which I didn’t. Our tour guide Ibrahim and bus driver Hans were fantastic. Ibrahim provided a lot of information, he was kind, very funny and gave us information with a lot of humour in it and made us laugh. We got more than enough time at all stops. Highly recommend this tour. If you get Ibrahim as your tour guide then it’s you lucky day. Thanks guys Read more Written April 26, 2024
• RaftNut 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun and informative Out tour guide went above and beyond. He stopped the bus to get us apples and pears on the way to Geithoorn then on the away back stopped at tulip field Read more Written April 25, 2024
• 813rajas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles from 1 star to 5 star journey A few phrases to encapsulate their dedication: they ensured you had a splendid time. When I missed my bus by a mere five minutes past eight in the morning, I promptly made a call and was met with a swift and courteous response. They connected me with Ibrahim, who was nothing short of fabulous and kind. He ensured that I was reunited with the group without delay. The group leader, Fernando, was exceptional; you'll recognize him by his use of the word "family," a term that swiftly forges a connection with him. This company ranks as my second favourite travel guide, closely following one I experienced in Portugal. Read more Written April 23, 2024
• ChiangMai4Retire 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Day Tour with One Hour Boat Canal Cruise The Tourguide Ibrahim was so kind and knowledgeable. He spent time telling us about things about Amsterdam and Giethoorn where we were going to enjoy our Day Trip. He is also a safe and good driver, despite the raining, slippery condition of the roads; we felt safe driving in his van. Many thanks Ibrahim 😅 Read more Written April 21, 2024
• shannonnR2788RV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun! (Even in the rain and wind) This tour was great! Two beautiful places in one day; worth it! Ibrahim’s energy was AMAZING, and he and his colleague Yair really made the tour extra special. It was fun to be apart of their family for the day! Read more Written April 19, 2024
• 221nishac 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Ibrahim was an amazing tour guide. He made funny jokes along the way and made the day go by fast. Amazing tour and would highly recommend Read more Written April 16, 2024
• HappinessJourneys 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A Tick on the Bucket List So you have heard of this Place. A quaint village with no roads , just waterways. It definitely is ... As a tourist you should come here and it won't disappoint you. Beautiful Experience which takes you away from Modern life we know of. Just wondered, with so many tourists throughout, could the water be made a little bit more clearer ? See pic Read more Written April 13, 2024
• Devershi S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do. Book with Ibrahim, if there's an option. Awesome tour and a day well spent. Have taken many tours in Europe and this was one of the best and definitely the best tour guide. Thanks Ibrahim for being so entertaining and helping. Read more Written April 7, 2024
• Queenie Y 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommended !! Highly recommended, nice and super family tour guide with rich knowledges on the story and history of Netherlands, well planned itinerary with enough time to explore the places Read more Written March 25, 2024
• A4481EBannat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience 😍 It was one of the most beautiful things we did in the Netherlands ! Imbrahim is so kind, friendly and caring with everyone and explains everything you need to know for the Netherlands 🇳🇱 everything was well organised and I suggest you not to leave from 🇳🇱 without this experience ❤️ Read more Written March 24, 2024
• falishao2023 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Charming private tour We had an absolute great time. This was well worth the money. We thought we would be on a large passenger bus but we were in a Mercedes minivan. We got very personalized service. They were bought bottles in the car waiting for us and our guide, Fernando, was so funny and charming. he had a wealth of knowledge about the city and country and went out of his way to make sure we had a great experience. We would definitely do this again, especially with Fernando. Read more Written March 20, 2024
• F1550XAtonyg 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Is a must!!! 90 min away from Amsterdam, this fantastic, fairy tales town, inmmerse you in a world of gardens and beauty. Fernando was our guide, who took avance of the long driving to teach us about local history. This trip is a must. Amsterdam City and the country side are oppossed things. Read more Written March 19, 2024
• _J110QO 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect trip. Everything was amazing. Best trip ever. All the crew was great but Ibrahim is the best guy we met in Amsterdam. We loved him Read more Written March 18, 2024
• Global21642937239 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful travel to Giethoorn! Wonderful day excursion with a wonderful guide, Fernando. The entire visit was beautifully planned, informative and deliciously put together. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to travel outside of the city. Read more Written March 18, 2024

More to explore in Amsterdam

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Buy it with

Rotterdam, Delft and the Hague Day Trip from Amsterdam provided by Dutchtrips

Daytrips » Day trip to Rotterdam and The Hague

Day trip to Rotterdam and The Hague

Discover the best of the South of Holland on this excursion in which we will visit Rotterdam, which you will fall in love with, for its modernity and breaking architecture; and The Hague, for

Quick details:

• Destination: Rotterdam, The Hague
• Duration: 8 Hrs
• Kind of Tour: Daytrip
• Meeting Point: Powerzone Bowling
• Time: Thursday and Sunday at 09:00

The modern and the historical of Holland in only one day.

Meat or fish? Beach or mountain? Rotterdam or The Hague? If you are one of those who does not like to give up anything, we are going to get alone, for sure. In this daytrip we will meet two cities as cosmopolitan as different from each other. On the one hand, Rotterdam, known as the mecca of contemporary architecture; and, on the other hand, The Hague, the most stately city in the country. This tour is the best way to understand the different lifestyles that inhabit the Netherlands, while you learn a bit of culture and history, and, of course, you have a good time with us 😉.

• Specialized (and very nice) guide
• Bus transportation for the entire tour

Must cancel or change 48 hours before of the departure

Once started, our first stop is The Hague, or to make it clearer, the Dutch Versailles. This city is the third largest in the Netherlands, after Amsterdam and Rotterdam. It is noted in its large avenues, majestic buildings, palaces, embassies and large expanses of green area. This city lacks nothing.

Binnenhof and Peace Palace

The Netherlands is ruled from a medieval fortress: the Dutch parliament building is definitely a must-see. We will walk around the historic center and we will leave the city admiring the place where the International Court of Justice, the imposing Palace of Peace, is housed.

Next stop, Rotterdam! Get ready to step down, we have reached the world epicenter of modern architecture. This city, which was bombed during the Second World War, has managed to rise from the ashes and proclaim itself as one of the most imaginative cities in Europe.

Cubic Houses, the Old Haven and Church of Sint-Laurens

In Rotterdam, not everything is new: on our walk through the city center, we will discover how the past and the present come together in a unique city. And we will take a break to visit the most beautiful market in the country and grab a bite. When leaving the city, already with a full stomach, a panoramic tour awaits us to see, from the bus, the little things that have been left in the dark.

Testimonials

• +31 615 467 640
• [email protected]
• Beemsterweg 1 1311 XC Almere- Paises Bajos
• 09:00h - 17:00h

INFORMATION

• Join our team
• Legal warning
• Privacy Policy

© Camaleon Tours. Todos los derechos reservados 2022

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Bundle & Save
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Rotterdam & The Hague in 3 Days: A Blend of Modernity and Heritage

April 22, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 3-day journey through the architectural wonders and cultural treasures of Rotterdam and The Hague. Begin your exploration in Rotterdam's Old Harbour, where historic charm meets maritime spirit, spending 2 hours soaking in the ambiance. Next, marvel at the iconic Cube Houses for a quick 30-minute tour, before indulging in the culinary delights and modern architecture of Markthal for 2 hours. Conclude your first day with a stroll through the characteristic neighborhood of Delfshaven, spending an hour amidst its storied streets. Day 2 invites you to ascend the Euromast Rotterdam for panoramic city views, dedicating an hour to the skies. Then, transition to the serene Scheveningen strand in The Hague, where a full day by the sea offers a refreshing contrast to urban life. Your final day is rich with cultural immersion, starting with the miniature wonders of Madurodam theme park for an hour. Spend the next 2 hours surrounded by art at Kunstmuseum Den Haag, followed by a visit to the iconic Peace Palace, home to a prestigious library, for another hour. Conclude your trip with a 2-hour tour of the Mauritshuis Museum, where masterpieces of Dutch painting await. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of modernity, heritage, and leisure, tailored for an unforgettable experience with Trip.com.

• Day 1: Discovering Rotterdam's Architectural Marvels and Historic Charms

Old Harbour

Begin your Rotterdam adventure at the Old Harbour, a picturesque and historic marina that sets the tone for a day steeped in culture and history. Spend a couple of hours wandering along the waterfront, where modern leisure meets maritime heritage. The Old Harbour, with its classic ships and surrounding historic buildings, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a glimpse into Rotterdam's rich past.

Attraction Info

• Oudehaven, 3011 WB Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Cube Houses

Next, marvel at the architectural wonder of the Cube Houses, located just a short stroll from the Old Harbour. These iconic, tilted cubic structures challenge traditional housing designs and offer a unique perspective on urban living. Although your visit may be brief, the striking appearance and ingenuity of the Cube Houses will leave a lasting impression on your architectural appetite.

• Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 11:00am-5:00pm

Continue your journey to the Markthal, a stunning example of modern architecture that houses an eclectic indoor market. Here, you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights and shop for fresh produce, all under an impressive ceiling adorned with vibrant artwork. The Markthal isn't just a feast for the taste buds; it's a visual spectacle that perfectly encapsulates Rotterdam's innovative spirit.

• Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Open on Mon-Thu, Sat,10:00am-8:00pm;Open on Fri,10:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-6:00pm

Conclude your day with a leisurely exploration of Delfshaven, a characteristic neighborhood that stands in contrast to the modernity of Rotterdam. Delfshaven's historical buildings, charming canals, and quaint streets offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to reflect on the city's evolution. As you wander through this area, you'll feel transported back in time, providing a perfect end to a day filled with both contemporary wonders and timeless beauty.

• Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1-4 hour

Where to Stay Tonight

171. urban design hotel.

• Day 2: Towering Views and Sandy Shores

Euromast Rotterdam

Kickstart your second day with a sky-high adventure at Euromast Rotterdam, an iconic observation tower that offers unparalleled views of the city. As the first stop of the day, it's the perfect place to get your bearings and witness Rotterdam from a bird's eye perspective. Spend an hour marveling at the panoramic vistas, and if you're feeling adventurous, opt for an abseiling experience down the tower. The Euromast is not just about the views; it's a symbol of Rotterdam's resilience and innovation.

• Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 10:00am-10:00pm

Scheveningen strand

After touching the sky, it's time to feel the sand between your toes at Scheveningen Strand, The Hague's famous beach. A full day here promises relaxation and entertainment with its vast stretch of sandy shores. Dive into the refreshing North Sea, stroll along the lively pier, and indulge in fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants. Scheveningen Strand isn't just a beach; it's a seaside escape that offers a slice of Dutch coastal life, perfect for unwinding after the morning's urban adventure.

• 2586 ZZ The Hague, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

EasyHotel the Hague Scheveningen Beach

Ibis styles den haag scheveningen.

• Day 3: Enchanting Art and Miniature Wonders in The Hague

Kicking off the final day of our Rotterdam Hague adventure, we begin at Madurodam, a delightful theme park that brings the wonders of the Netherlands to life in miniature form. Spend an hour marveling at the intricate models and interactive exhibits that showcase Dutch landmarks, historical events, and cultural achievements. This enchanting park is not only a feast for the eyes but also an educational journey through the country's heritage, all located at George Maduroplein 1.

• George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Open from 3/21-3/29,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 3/30-4/1,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 4/2-4/26,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 4/27-5/3,9:00am-6:00pm

Kunstmuseum Den Haag

Next, immerse yourself in the world of art at the Kunstmuseum Den Haag, a premier art gallery that promises to captivate for two full hours. With its striking art-deco architecture, the museum houses a vast collection of modern art, fashion, and music. Located at Stadhouderslaan 41, the Kunstmuseum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, featuring works by Mondrian, Picasso, and many other renowned artists.

• Stadhouderslaan 41, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon

Peace Palace

Following the artistic indulgence, we'll visit the iconic Peace Palace, a beacon of international law and order. During our one-hour stay, we'll explore the grounds of this architectural masterpiece, which houses the International Court of Justice and a rich library. The Peace Palace, at Carnegieplein 2, stands as a symbol of peace and justice, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of international diplomacy.

• Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ The Hague, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open on Thu-Sun,12:00pm-4:00pm;Closed on Mon-Wed

Mauritshuis Museum

Our journey through The Hague's cultural landscape concludes with a two-hour visit to the Mauritshuis Museum. Nestled at Plein 29, this art gallery is home to a world-class collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring.' The Mauritshuis offers an intimate museum experience, allowing art lovers to come face-to-face with some of the most celebrated masterpieces in history.

• Plein 29, 2511 CS, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Open on Mon,1:00pm-6:00pm;Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm

Holiday Inn Express the Hague - Parliament

Staybridge suites the hague - parliament.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

<h3>Trending Searches</h3>

Popular Content

• Concord 1 Day Itinerary
• Koh Phra Thong 1 Day Itinerary
• Tonglu 2 Days Itinerary
• Shaoxing 1 Day Itinerary
• Tallinn Helsinki 4 Days Itinerary
• Qionghai Lingshui 5 Days Itinerary
• Nanjiang 1 Day Itinerary
• Sapporo Noboribetsu 3 Days Itinerary
• Chenzhou 2 Days Itinerary
• Madrid Vega de Toledo 2 Days Itinerary
• Narita 1 Day Itinerary
• Toronto 3 Days Itinerary
• Medina 1 Day Itinerary
• Luoyang 2 Days Itinerary
• Lubeck 1 Day Itinerary
• Zhuhai 2 Days Itinerary
• Daegu 1 Day Itinerary
• Chongqing Chishui 5 Days Itinerary
• Providencia 1 Day Itinerary
• Huidong Dongguan 3 Days Itinerary
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier

• The Netherlands
• 10 Great Day Trips To...

10 Great Day Trips to Take From The Hague

Planning day trips from The Hague is exceptionally easy thanks to the city’s centrality and proximity to important transport hubs like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht. The Hague is also surrounded by several smaller cities that all have their own distinctive charms.

Lisse lies in the heart of South-Holland’s tulip belt and is surrounded by hundreds of colourful flower fields. The city main attractions include a fascinating tulip museum , castle ‘t Huys Dever and, of course, Keukenhof Gardens .

Leiden’s university is the oldest in the Netherlands and date back to 1575. Since then the city has developed around academia and currently features many stunning buildings associated with the university including Leiden Observatory . Hortus Botanicus botanical gardens and several scholarly museums .

Rotterdam is actually connected to The Hague by a high speed metro line which means that travelling between either city takes around 30 minutes. As the second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam has plenty to offer travellers, including astounding ultra-modern architecture , world-leading museums and many awesome nighttime hangouts .

The windmills at Kinderdijk

Due to its historical and cultural significance, the windmill network inside Kinderdijk is protected as an UNSECO World Heritage Site. Most of these incredible machines are over 250 years old and were originally built to drain water from the area’s marshlands.

Although Kijkduin is actually part of the Hague its distance from the city’s centre can easily justify an entire day trip. This seaside borough lies roughly 10 kilometre due west of the Binnenhof and is famous for its beautiful coastline, windswept dunes and modernist architecture.

Utrecht might be the most historically charming city in the Netherlands and still features many church buildings from the Middle Ages. The Dom Tower , for example, was built in the 14th century and has stood above Utrecht’s historic town centre ever since.

Delft is a medieval city that lies between The Hague and Rotterdam. This photogenic burg was once an economic powerhouse and famously produced massive quotas of beautiful Delftware pottery during the Dutch Golden Ages. Many buildings from this period are still present within Delft and the city is renowned for its classic architecture.

Haarlem’s medieval town centre is utterly breathtaking and features several magnificent ecclesiastical and municipal buildings that predate the Dutch Golden Age. There’s also a craft brewery inside a former church.

Gouda’s modest size and wide range of historical attractions makes it perfect for day trips from the Hague. Many of these wonderful buildings date back to Gouda’s economic heyday when it was the only city in the Netherlands that was permitted to hold a cheese market (which still takes place every Thursday between April and September).

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in nijmegen, the netherlands, for every traveller.

The 5 Best Cheap Hotels in Rotterdam

Behind the Scenes at the Rijksmuseum’s ‘All the Rembrandts’

The Best Hotels in Arnhem, the Netherlands

Artistic Hotels to Stay in Around the World That Double as Galleries 

Manure Couture: The Dutch Startup Making Clothes Out of Cow Poo

From Factory Town to Design District: the Evolution of Eindhoven

Guides & Tips

Slow travel from london to amsterdam and rotterdam.

The Best Hotels in Delft for Every Traveller

48 Hours in Eindhoven: How to Explore the Dutch City of Design

The Best Hotels in Zaandam, the Netherlands, for Every Traveller

The Most Cycle-Friendly Cities in the World

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1361866
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Visit Rotterdam On A Day Trip

Welcome to rotterdam.

Rotterdam is known for its unique architecture, bustling harbor, and rich history. The city’s skyline is dominated by modern and innovative buildings, showcasing its reputation as a hub for architectural experimentation. The Rotterdam Harbor is one of the largest and busiest ports in the world, playing a crucial role in the city’s economy and international trade. As for its history, Rotterdam has faced significant challenges, including the devastation caused by World War II bombings. However, it has since rebuilt itself into a thriving and cosmopolitan city, embracing its past while looking towards the future.

Top 3 things to do in Rotterdam

Getting to rotterdam, free walking tour rotterdam, videos about rotterdam, recommendations from our guides, top 3 must-see attractions in rotterdam.

1. Markthal

One of the must-visit places in Rotterdam is the Markthal, a stunning food market and residential building. This architectural marvel features a horseshoe-shaped structure with a vibrant and colorful interior. Inside, you’ll find a wide variety of food stalls, offering everything from fresh produce to international delicacies. Take a stroll through the market, indulge in some delicious treats, and admire the beautiful artwork on the ceiling, known as the Horn of Plenty. It is also the meeting point for our Free Walking Tour Rotterdam .

2. The Erasmus Bridge

No visit to Rotterdam is complete without crossing the iconic Erasmusbrug (Erasmus Bridge), locally referred to as ‘The Swan’. This impressive cable-stayed bridge connects the northern and southern parts of the city, offering breathtaking views of the Rotterdam skyline and the Maas River. Whether you choose to walk or cycle across the bridge, you’ll be treated to a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and waterfront.

3. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Art enthusiasts will be delighted by a visit to the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen . This renowned museum houses an extensive collection of artworks spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. From masterpieces by Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Van Gogh to contemporary installations, the museum offers a diverse and captivating art experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore the museum’s stunning sculpture garden, featuring works by renowned artists such as Rodin and Henry Moore.

How To Get To Rotterdam

By Car: Travelling by car, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Simply follow the A13 highway towards Rotterdam, and you’ll reach the city center in no time. However, do keep in mind that parking in Rotterdam can be quite expensive, so it’s advisable to use public transport if possible.

By Public Transport: If you’d rather use public transport, there are several options available. The most convenient way is to take a direct train from The Hague Central Station to Rotterdam Central Station. The journey takes around 20 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Once you arrive at Rotterdam Central Station, you can easily explore the city on foot or use the extensive tram and metro network to reach your desired destinations.

Join our next tour and discover Rotterdam with a local. Let us show you the hidden gems of the city, its contrast between old and new and which places not to miss. Learn about the historic divide between the city’s South and North and understand the down-to-earth mentality of this blue collar city.

Daily tours at 10:30 (10:30pm), weekends extra tour at 13:30 (1:30pm) reserve ahead to secure your spot

Videos About Rotterdam

Free Virtual Tours Rotterdam

Rotterdam Guides Recommendations

In conclusion, Rotterdam offers a captivating blend of modern architecture, a bustling harbor, and a fascinating history. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant Markthal, crossing the iconic Erasmusbrug, or immersing yourself in art at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city. So pack your bags, hop on a train or jump in your car, and get ready to experience the wonders of Rotterdam. Read guide recommendations to the best places to visit and wine & dine like a local.

When you join a tour, you are charged a  €1,89 booking fee per attendee . These costs cover the following:

€1,50 booking fee:

• A guarantee of your reservation, both for you and for us.
• Our work on the backend, organizing & managing our tours and guides.
• Marketing & website maintenance, so you can find us when looking for the best tour in Amsterdam.
• Being there for you when you contact us!

€0,39 transaction fee for electronic payments

The booking fee can be paid when you  make an online booking , or at the start of the tour with a credit/debit card. For more information about the fee and our cancellation policy, visit our  Booking Fee & Cancellation Policy page .

The booking fee does not go to the guide 

The costs for reservation go to administration and do not benefit the guide. Our guides rely solely on your donation at the end the tour. The amount you tip is up to you, based on your personal experience of our tour and your budget.

10 Day Trips from The Hague Worth Taking

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 16th October 2023

Categories Netherlands

Last Updated on 16th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

The Hague (known in Dutch as ‘Den Haag’) is not just politics, embassies, and ambassadors, although it obviously has that as well! Instead, the city is a thriving metropolis home to countless cultural destinations and even its own seaside resort. Cheaper to stay in than Amsterdam, The Hague also makes for a great base for exploring the rest of the Netherlands. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best day trips from The Hague !

Kasteel Duivenvoorde

Molendriegang & voorburg, scheveningen, lisse & the keukenhof gardens, enjoyed reading about the best day trips from the hague pin it now, read it again later:, best day trips from the hague.

The beautiful university city of Leiden is easily one of the most underrated cities in Holland… But it definitely shouldn’t be! Home to the oldest university in the country, the oldest botanical gardens, and even where the Heineken Star logo came from, Leiden can be found just a fifteen-minute train ride away from The Hague.

Or, if you’re feeling brave enough, turn your visit into a day adventure and cycle the 15 km or so each way! A cycle ride day trip to Leiden can easily be combined with a day trip to Kasteel Duivenvoorde.

Other highlights of Leiden include Rembrandt’s birthplace, a church with strong ties to the Mayflower, and the chance to spy some of The Miniaturist filming locations.

Delftware pottery and several of the most impressive church towers in Southern Holland can be found in Delft, a city on the train line between The Hague and Rotterdam. Once there, be sure to visit the De Delftse Pauw (The Delft Peacock) , one of the last authentic Delft blue factories.

You can enjoy a free guided tour of the porcelain manufacturer, as well as get the opportunity to purchase some authentic Delftware for yourself (though bear in mind that it can be a little on the pricey side!).

Elsewhere in the city, the Nieuwe Kerk offers one of the best views of the main city square, while the oldest bar in the city dates back some three hundred and fifty years. For more Delft inspiration, check out our suggestions for the best things to do in Delft .

Modern, quirky, and vibrant, there’s no other European city quite like that of Rotterdam. During the Blitzkrieg of WWII, the city was near flattened, leaving behind a blank canvas on which some of the most innovative and unusual structures in Europe have since been built.

One of the best things to do in Rotterdam is simply to wander around the city (or cycle, Rotterdam is pretty vast and is most definitely best seen by bike) and admire the architecture.

From the Markthal (which is the largest archway in Europe and home to the ‘Horn of Plenty’, the largest artwork in the Netherlands) to the Cube Houses by Piet Blom, there’s no shortage of fantastical architecture to spy. If you only have a short time to visit the city, check out our suggestions for how to spend one day in Rotterdam .

Synonymous with the cheese of the same name which originates in this Dutch city, Gouda is a beautiful city home to a traditional cheese weighing station, city hall, and countless canals.

Should you opt to visit this beautiful Dutch settlement between April and August on a Thursday, then you’ll also be able to enjoy the city’s world-famous cheese market. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best things to do in Gouda .

The capital of the Netherlands is as beautiful as everything you’ve read. With that being said, there’s no denying that in the past decade, Amsterdam has become something of a victim of its own popularity and almost every major attraction should be booked in advance .

As another way of avoiding visiting during peak times, I recommend visiting the city in the shoulder seasons and mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) if possible so as to make the most of the city without the crowds. Visiting Amsterdam as a day trip from The Hague as opposed to staying in Amsterdam can be a great way to save accommodation if you’re travelling on a budget.

Located around 10 km from The Hague city centre, Kasteel Duivenvoorde is easy to visit by public transport (the nearest village of Voorschoten is a couple of kilometres away) or via bicycle (there’s ample bike parking in the castle grounds).

First founded as a fortified structure as early as the 13th-century, much of what you see today was actually built in the 17th. Though tours of the house are solely in Dutch, the grounds can be visited for just €1.50 and the adjacent café serves wonderful coffee.

For those who are looking to experience Dutch windmills up close, Molendriegang is a set of three quintessentially Dutch landmarks, in the very heart of the flat landscape. This isn’t a day trip from The Hague in the traditional sense as Molendriegang is literally a fifteen minute cycle ride away from the city.

Easy to reach via bicycle, a visit to the windmills (which can sadly not be visited and can instead only be admired from the exterior) can easily be combined with a trip to the nearby beautiful and historic villages of Leidschendam and Voorburg.

Though technically a district of The Hague, Scheveningen has its own seaside vibe and is far enough away from the city centre to merit a spot on this list about the best day trips from The Hague. Flocked to by tourists since the 19th-century as a go-to beach destination, the beach can be reached in just fifteen minutes by bus or bicycle from the city centre.

Highlights of Scheveningen include its long sandy beach, as well as an impossibly high Ferris Wheel, offering views onto the crashing waves below. While in Scheveningen, be sure to also check out one of the many beach-front cafés serving all manner of beverages and food. I personally recommend the fries at the Fat Mermaid!

The oldest city in the Netherlands can be found on a direct train line from The Hague, around a forty-minute train ride from the city centre. Often dubbed the ‘Venice of Holland’ thanks to its many waterways, this island has only been connected to the rest of the Netherlands via roads for the shortest period. And once there, you’ll soon see why!

Other than plenty of place names which are difficult to pronounce (try saying Scheveningen five times in a row!) and clogs, there is perhaps nothing more emblematic of the Netherlands than its tulips.

After all, during the Dutch Golden Age, tulips fetched impossibly high prices. In some cases, a single tulip bulb could be valued at the same price as a small canalside house in Amsterdam!

As such, if you’re visiting the Netherlands during tulip season, then one of the best day trips from The Hague is to the Southern Holland tulip belt and right into the tulip city of Lisse.

Once in Lisse, the city is home to attractions such as a tulip museum and the Keukenhof Gardens, which is where you’ll find some seven million flowers! I’ve now been to Keukenhof twice and it’s easily one of my favourite places to visit in Europe. For more inspiration, check out our guide on how to visit Keukenhof, the largest flower gardens in Holland

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Netherlands 101: Holland

I t’s amazing that so much is packed into tiny Holland . It’s one of the 12 provinces that make up the mighty country of The Netherlands. Holland, it turns out, has just about every Dutch treat that you could ask for and more. From the amazing art to the bright green countryside, Holland delivers. While Amsterdam is the crowning jewel of this area and a highlight for many travelers, there is far more than this incredible town on offer. Here we go!

Modern Rotterdam is the business hub for much of the area. This huge port city not only serves The Netherlands but also supports many other EU partners in global trade. While it looks like there isn’t much to enjoy, you can spend a laid back day seeing this town and its highlights. Check out the modern art at the Boijmans Museum then tuck into some international food on Witte de Withstraat . This street represents the country’s diverse history and is lined with plenty of cafes and boutiques. Round out your visit with a simple harbor ferry ride . You can find them right by the Erasmus Bridge in the middle of town.

The Hague and Delft

Just six miles away from Rotterdam is the lovely city of Delft . Full of real life Vermeer scenes and plenty of blue and white dishware. Delft’s historic city center square is a great jumping off point to explore the stories of the artist at the Vermeer Center , William of Orange at the Prinsenhof , and the iconic earthenware at the Royal Dutch Delfware Factory . It is easy to spend two days here if you add in the Delfhaven Port that’s a little closer to Rotterdam.

Meanwhile, the important business of the region takes shape just to the East. The Hague offers one gem worth seeing as you pass through making your way around. Vermeer’s enigmatic Girl With A Pearl Earring can be found in Mauritshuis Museum . There are other heavy hitters like Rembrandt and Rubens hanging about. You’ll find it’s worth the detour. It’s less than 10 minutes from the train station and this museum is covered by the Museumkart pass .

The Zuiderzee

Probably the most fascinating story of the Netherlands is that it’s actually bigger than it used to be. In fact, though the use of windmills and dike engineering, the country is far bigger than it used to be. For the best look at the Zuiderzee, which is the vast, shallow inlet dutch technology controls, head toward the north Hoorn and Enkhuizen for two enlightening museums on both the Zuiderzee itself and the Dutch East India Company .

Kinderdijk and Windmills

If there is one last thing that makes The Netherlands so unique , it has to be the windmills. For the best chance to see windmills in action, check out one of the following choices:

• The Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem toward the west. This open air museum gives you a day’s worth of historical fun. It’s the Williamsburg of The Netherlands.
• The Kinderdijk Windmill Park to the south. This grouping of 13 windmills is an easy ferry ride from Rotterdam. Two of the windmills are tourable and you can get a good peak at the inner workings in this pretty little setting. Renting bikes when you hop off the ferry is a great choice. Expect to spend about half of a day to thoroughly enjoy.
• The Zuiderzee Museum in the historic triangle to the north. With one tourable windmill and so much to see this might be just the little dose of wind power you need.
• The Lieden Windmill Museum to the south. To get into the nitty gritty of how a windmill works, use this massive mill to climb in and get a close up look at all the pieces and parts.

Boat rides through that famous town, Geithoorn

One last note, there is a lot of Insta chatter about the town of Geithoorn . This very picturesque town with streets of water may be toward the top of your list. Thousands of people also put it at the top of their list . Expect it to be about 1.5 hours from Amsterdam and Hoorn. The benefit of connecting this scenic drive with Hoorn is that you can enjoy the A7 highway which takes you right over the Zuiderzee dikes. Check out this video to decide if getting to this particular site is worth it for you.

The post The Netherlands 101: Holland appeared first on Babcia and Yia Yia Travel The World .