Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands

Rotterdam, Netherlands, Rotterdam, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities

Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands

1. Delft

Charming city with a historic center and iconic Vermeer museum, just a short train ride from Rotterdam.
  • Historic Architecture: Wander through the picturesque streets lined with old houses.
  • Art and Culture: Visit the museum dedicated to Vermeer, one of Delft's most famous residents.
  • Tranquility: Enjoy a peaceful weekend escape from the bustle of Rotterdam.

2. The Hague

Home to the Dutch government and international courts, The Hague offers cultural experiences and beautiful beaches.
  • Political History: Visit the Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics since the 13th century.
  • Art and Culture: Explore the Mauritshuis museum with works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
  • Beaches: Relax on Scheveningen beach, one of Europe's largest.

3. Zaanse Schans

Windmills, cheese farms, and clog-making workshops make this open-air museum a step back in time.
  • Historic Windmills: Explore the working windmills that once powered the region.
  • Traditional Crafts: Watch clogs being made or see cheese being produced.
  • Nature and Walks: Take a stroll along the beautiful river and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Leiden

A historic university town with a rich history, beautiful canals, and the Museum Boerhaave.
  • University Town: Stroll through the leafy campus of Leiden University.
  • Art and History: Visit the Museum Boerhaave, one of Europe's oldest museums of science and history.
  • Canal Walks: Take a leisurely boat trip along the beautiful canals.

5. Utrecht

A vibrant city with a medieval center, canal-lined streets, and modern architecture.
  • Medieval Architecture: Explore the Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral.
  • Modern City Life: Experience the lively cafes, bars, and shops in Utrecht.
  • Canal-side Attractions: Walk along the canals to see unique wharf houses and boat-shaped residences.

6. Harlem (Noord-Holland)

A picturesque village with historic windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and beautiful gardens.
  • Historic Windmills: Visit the iconic windmill complex at De Gooyer.
  • Traditional Dutch Villages: Explore the charming streets lined with traditional houses.
  • Gardens and Nature: Relax in the beautiful gardens at Kenaupark or Het Bloesemhof.

7. Muiderslot

A medieval castle on the river Vecht with a rich history and beautiful gardens.
  • Medieval Castle: Explore the castle's towers, halls, and dungeons.
  • Art and History: Learn about the castle's history and its connection to Dutch legends.
  • Gardens and Nature: Stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.

8. Keukenhof

The world's largest flower garden, blooming with seven million bulbs in spring.
  • Flower Paradise: Marvel at the colorful displays of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.
  • Nature and Walks: Take a leisurely stroll among the beautiful gardens.
  • Spring Getaway: Plan your visit for late March to mid-May for the best blooms.

9. Amsterdam

Europe's cultural capital with world-famous museums, charming canals, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Art and History: Visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum.
  • Canal-side Attractions: Take a boat trip along the canals to see historic houses and beautiful bridges.
  • Nightlife: Experience Amsterdam's vibrant nightlife in the Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein areas.

10. Haarlem

A charming city with a historic center, beautiful canals, and the Frans Hals Museum.
  • University Town: Stroll through the leafy campus of Teylers University.
  • Art and History: Visit the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to the famous Dutch painter.
  • Canal Walks: Take a leisurely boat trip along the beautiful canals.

11. Zandvoort aan Zee

A popular seaside resort with a long sandy beach and vibrant nightlife.
  • Beaches: Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches.
  • Nightlife: Experience the lively bars and clubs in Zandvoort.
  • Water Sports: Try surfing, sailing, or windsurfing in the sea.

12. Madurodam

A miniature park showcasing famous Dutch landmarks and cities in miniature.
  • Miniature Landmarks: See iconic Dutch buildings, bridges, and windmills in miniature.
  • Educational Fun: Learn about the history and architecture of the Netherlands.
  • Family-friendly Attraction: A great day out for families with children.

13. Kinderdijk

A UNESCO World Heritage site with a series of well-preserved windmills.
  • Historic Windmills: Explore the working windmills that once pumped water from the polders.
  • Nature and Walks: Take a leisurely walk along the dike paths and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Educational Experience: Learn about the history of polder management in the Netherlands.

14. Zwijndrecht

A peaceful town with a beautiful riverfront and a historical fortress.
  • Historic Fortress: Explore the historic Fort de Roovere.
  • Riverfront Walks: Take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the views.
  • Peaceful Getaway: Enjoy a quiet weekend escape from the city.

15. Ede

A charming town with a historic center, beautiful gardens, and the Kröller-Müller Museum.
  • University Town: Stroll through the leafy campus of Radboud University.
  • Art and History: Visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to works by Van Gogh and Mondrian.
  • Gardens and Nature: Relax in the beautiful gardens at Het Loo Palace or the Sculpture Garden Kröller-Müller Museum.