For those with a passion for architecture, there is no better day trip from Amsterdam than a trip to Rotterdam. After the city was flattened during World War II, they have worked to rebuild it into a modern mastery of architecture with a wide variety of building structures. Rotterdam houses Europe’s largest port. It is known for its large number of summer festivals and events, including cultural festivals and impressive sporting events such as the Rotterdam Open Judo Championship and the Dutch Open Badminton Championships.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands by Dietmut Teijgeman-Hansen

2. The Hague

Head out to The Hague for history, museums, and judicial courts. Although The Hague is not the capital of the Netherlands, it has the seat for the Dutch government and parliament and is Queen Beatrix’s residence. There are a variety of palaces, museums, and narrow streets to explore. The Hague does not have Amsterdam’s excitement but instead offers expansive coastline and green space as well as quaint shopping.

3. Haarlem

For a smaller, more quaint version of Amsterdam, make your way to Haarlem for the day.. It is known for having one of the most impressive cathedrals in the Netherlands. Haarlem offers culture, historical architecture, and the internationally famous Dutch bulb fields, giving it the nickname the City of Flowers. While you are there, take a small detour to Zandvoort, which has the best beaches and coastal dunes that the Netherlands has to offer.

4. Utrecht

This university town with a charming medieval city center is another great place to visit.  Utrecht is famous for its numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants and one of a kind double-tiered canals. Explore museums, boutique shops, modern architecture, and museums. There are eleven museums in Utrecht that offer a wide range of collections. If you are visiting on a Sunday, take part in their Cultural Sundays with different events and festivals every month. The city is small enough that you can take in everything on foot.

Utrecht, The Netherlands by CeBepuH

5. Bruges, Belgium

Head out of the Netherlands for a day to the neighboring Bruges, Belgium for history, lace factories, churches, Begijnhof, and exquisite shopping. Take a tour and sample the beer at the De Halve Maan brewery, which is known for its traditional Brugse Zot. Dating back to 1546, it is made from hops, malt, and yeast. Their guided tour takes you through the history of the brewery and their production process. Bruges a wide variety of museums that include collections classic fine arts, Flemish primitives, archaeological excavations, furniture, silverware, folklore, contemporary art, and more. There is something here for everyone. Finally, while you’re in Bruges, you can’t forget to pick up some famous Belgian chocolate.

When visiting The Netherlands, why not check out the range of short term apartment rentals available in the main cities. There are a number of Worldwide Accom apartments in Amsterdam for rent to suit any budget.

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Haarlem has been the historical center of the tulip bulb-growing district for centuries and therefore bears the nickname ‘Bloemenstad’ – The city of flowers. You can see beautiful flower arrangements on street corners, colourful parks and squares at any entrance to the city.

What to see in Harleem?

• Almshouses (hofjes) built around courtyards
• The Grote Markt (central market square), including:
• the City Hall
• the Vleeshal or meat market
• the Hoofdwacht
• the Grote or Sint-Bavokerk
• Stadsbibliotheek Haarlem, the Haarlem Public Library, an historic landmark
• Sint-Bavo Cathedral
• Castle ruin Huis ter Kleef
• The Teylers Museum (the oldest museum of the Netherlands)
• Frans Hals Museum of Art
• Het Dolhuys Museum of Psychiatry
• Windmill De Adriaan
• The Amsterdamse Poort city gate
• The art nouveau railway station of Haarlem
• Theater De Toneelschuur
• The Ten Boom Museum
• Villa Welgelegen
• Haarlemmerhout park
• The Bosch and Vaart neighbourhood

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