Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in The Hague, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
1. Keukenhof Gardens
Experience the world's largest flower garden with over 7 million bulbs blooming in tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
- Seasonal Attraction: Open from mid-March to mid-May
- Photography Opportunities: Beautiful backdrops for stunning photos
- Wide Variety of Flowers: Over 800 varieties to see
2. Delft
Visit the historic city of Delft, famous for its iconic blue and white pottery, canals, and the royal Nieuwe Kerk.
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- Art and Culture: Van der Werff Museum, Prinsenhof Delft, and Vermeer Centrum
- Traditional Dutch Architecture: Discover the unique blue-painted houses
3. Scheveningen
Enjoy the seaside town of Scheveningen with its sandy beaches, pier, and vibrant nightlife.
- Beach Activities: Sunbathing, surfing, and windsurfing
- Famous Pier: Iconic landmark with restaurants and attractions
- Nightlife: Clubs, bars, and casinos by the sea
4. Madurodam
Explore a miniature city with replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Educational Experience: Learn about Dutch history and architecture
- Interactive Exhibits: Water shows, interactive games, and quizzes
- Unique Perspective: See the Netherlands in a tiny scale
5. Zaanse Schans
Step back in time at Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Dutch windmills and workshops.
- Historical Attraction: Preserved 19th-century buildings
- Windmill Demonstrations: See the windmills in action
- Dutch Cheese Tasting: Try various Dutch cheeses at a local cheese farm
6. Gouda
Visit the picturesque town of Gouda, famous for its delicious cheese and stunning St. John's Church.
- Cheese Tasting: Try authentic Gouda cheese at a local cheese shop
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- Market Day: Explore the bustling market on Thursdays
7. Leiden
Discover the historic university town of Leiden, home to the National Museum of Antiquities and the Birthhouse of Rembrandt.
- Art and Culture: Leiden Museum of Natural History, Boerhaave Museum, and Pieterskerk
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- University Town Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively student vibe in the city center
8. Rotterdam
Experience modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and maritime history in Rotterdam.
- Modern Architecture: Iconic structures like the Erasmus Bridge and Cube Houses
- Maritime History: Visit the Maritime Museum or explore the SS Rotterdam
- Nightlife: Bars, clubs, and restaurants in the Witte de Withstraat and Bar Jess
9. Utrecht
Explore the medieval city of Utrecht with its famous Dom Tower, canals, and bustling university atmosphere.
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved Gothic buildings
- University Town Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively student vibe in the city center
- Canals and Boat Tours: Take a relaxing boat tour along the canals
10. Haarlem
Discover the charming town of Haarlem with its historic city center, Grote Markt, and the Frans Hals Museum.
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- Art and Culture: Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum, and Grote Kirk
- Cafes and Restaurants: Enjoy a variety of dining options in the city center
11. Hilversum
Visit Hilversum, known as the 'Dutch Media City,' featuring the National Broadcasting Museum and beautiful parkland.
- Media History: National Broadcasting Museum exhibits
- Parkland: Relax in the beautiful parklands of Soestdijk Palace and Landgoed Hilversumse Bosch
- Modern Architecture: Discover unique modern buildings like De Rotonde
12. Baarn
Explore the picturesque town of Baarn with its beautiful gardens, historic houses, and castle.
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved mansions and castles
- Gardens: Visit the stunning gardens of Keukenhof, Clingendael, and Kasteel de Haar
- Castle Tours: Take a tour of Kasteel de Haar or Vreeland
13. Amsterdam
Experience the vibrant city of Amsterdam with its famous canals, world-class museums, and bustling nightlife.
- Canals and Boat Tours: Take a relaxing boat tour along the canals
- Art and Culture: Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House
- Nightlife: Bars, clubs, and restaurants in the Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein areas
14. Amersfoort
Discover the historic city of Amersfoort with its medieval center, Openluchtmuseum, and unique Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren tower.
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- Openluchtmuseum: Step back in time at the open-air museum of historic Dutch buildings
- Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren Tower: Climb the tower for a stunning view of the city
15. Alkmaar
Visit Alkmaar and its historic city center, famous for its traditional cheese market.
- Cheese Market: Experience the traditional cheese market on Fridays
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved medieval buildings
- Canals and Boat Tours: Take a relaxing boat tour along the canals