Renting in a popular neighbourhood? Better save up. Minister Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan has new plans that would allow landlords to increase rent prices in major cities.
The housing minister has proposed changes to the Affordable Rent Act. Since its inception in 2024, the act has been responsible for reducing the rent for about 300,000 homes by at least €190.
Why does Boekholt-O’Sullivan want to undo the accomplishments of the Rutte cabinet?
Simply put, renting isn’t profitable anymore. (Yes, even at monthly rents as high as €2,200 in Amsterdam). The minister aims to lure private landlords back into a market they have been steadily exiting.
Although the parliament still needs to sign off, Boekholt-O’Sullivan expects the changes to take effect by January 1, 2027.
What exactly would change?
At the moment, the Affordable Housing Act grants points to a rental unit based on its energy rating, area, kitchen facilities, and so on. The quality of the accommodation then determines its rent.
First, if Boekholt-O’Sullivan gets her way, she would scrap the WOZ-cap safeguard. Homes with a high WOZ value (property tax valuation) would then be able to justify higher rents.
According to AD, this change alone could affect around 25,000 rental homes.
Second, the rent deduction applicable to homes without a balcony, garden, or outdoor area would be scrapped. Meaning, landlords no longer need to hold back on rental prices if their home has no outdoor space.
Third, owners of rijksmonumenten (nationally listed heritage buildings) would gain more flexibility to charge higher prices. This change could affect as many as 10,000 renters.
Meanwhile, landlords of newly renovated homes would be allowed to apply a 10% surcharge for longer than they currently can. If you rent a newly-done property, you have our sympathies.
Temporary contracts could make a comeback
The cabinet also wants to loosen the rules on temporary rental contracts, which were heavily restricted in recent years.
As opposed to an indefinite contract, a temporary one has a clear date of termination, usually within 24 months. This allows landlords to change rents, skirt permanent squatting, and kick out their tenants at their will.
The new proposal would make such temporary contracts possible again.
In the 19 largest student cities, private landlords own nearly half of all student accommodation: that’s almost 160,000 homes which could be affected.
To prevent landlords from selling up
However, it’s difficult to have affordable housing if there isn’t any housing at all.
Approximately 1.2 million homes in the Netherlands are owned by private landlords and investors as of 2025. If these parties continue selling their properties, the rental crisis might get worse.
Or at least, that’s the thought process of the new cabinet.
To sweeten the deal further, the government is also planning to cut the overdrachtsbelasting (transfer tax) for investors buying property with the intention of renting it out.
Are you worried about what these changes mean for your rent? Let us know in the comments below.
The Dutch cabinet has activated phase one of the Landelijk Crisisplan Olie (national oil crisis plan) — marking the first time the plan has ever been triggered.
According to RTL Nieuws, the action plan addresses both a temporary and long-term oil shortage in the Netherlands.
What does phase one actually mean?
The National Oil Crisis Plan has four phases.
Now active, phase one is called “alertering” (alert).
According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, a dedicated team will now keep a close eye on fuel-intensive sectors such as transport and agriculture, while international stock levels come under tighter scrutiny.
The strategic oil reserve can be tapped if needed, and public communications will be stepped up: a copy of the plan is already accessible on Rijksoverheid.
For now, phase one will have no direct consequences for citizens. That may only come during later phases.
Phase two is an “early warning” that prioritises fuel for certain users; phase three is “alarm,” at which point a state of emergency can be declared; and phase four is an outright oil crisis.
What does an oil crisis look like?
The plan’s later phases give a sense of what could follow if the Hormuz situation worsens.
According to NOS, possible measures include banning home delivery services (think Bol.com, Amazon, Uber Eats, etc.), driving at 80 km/h on the motorway, and car-free Sundays.
The European Commission also advises companies to establish at least one fixed day for working from home.
The crisis plan also lays out the possibility of banning the Netherlands from exporting fossil fuels to Germany, Belgium, France, and the UK.
Meanwhile, under the Availability of Goods Act of 1952, factories that consume larger amounts of fuel could be on the receiving end of a production ban.
At the moment, there are no shortages and no restrictions. But the government is clearly signalling that it’s not taking any chances.
Why now?
The Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which 20% of the world’s oil exports pass, has reportedly been blocked again.
On Saturday, more than 20 ships passed through, according to news agency Reuters. This was the highest number of ships travelling through the strait since March 1.
That didn’t last.
Over the weekend, the US and Iran each accused the other of violating a ceasefire by attacking ships. An Iranian-flagged cargo ship was allegedly breaching the American blockade on the Strait of Hormuz: an American attack and Iranian retaliation ensued.
Oil prices are surging again by more than 6%, with prices in the Netherlands shooting up to €2.75 on the litre.
Have soaring fuel prices affected your daily life in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments below.
More than half of young Dutch adults don’t want children, and many aren’t sure they ever will.
That’s the finding from a new RTL survey. The poll, conducted among over 19,000 panel members in February 2026, found that 53% of 18 to 35-year-olds either have no desire for children or remain undecided.
These findings are reflected in maternity wards. The Netherlands’ birth rate has dropped from an average of 1.8 children per woman in 2010 to just 1.4 in 2024, according to RTL Nieuws.
And the reasons behind this stance say a lot about life in the Netherlands right now.
Why don’t young people want children?
Respondents point to a mix of factors: no natural pull towards parenthood, worries about climate change, health problems, and the absence of a stable partner.
But what does this mean for society in the future?
Some experts fear consequences will be severe
Economist Jona van Loenen warns that the consequences of this drop could hit us hard. At the current pace, he says, the Dutch population could halve within 75 years.
The worker-to-retiree ratio, once seven to one, could fall as low as two to one, piling pressure on healthcare and the broader economy simultaneously.
Others aren’t so worried
Not everyone sees it as a disaster, though. Economist Jan-Pieter Peijs calls population decline “a blessing”, given that the world is already heading towards 11 billion people.
A smaller Dutch population, he argues, would ease pressure on housing, infrastructure, and climate targets.
Van Loenen doesn’t dismiss those points, but stresses that the pace is the real problem. A gradual decline is manageable; the current speed, he warns, is the problem. “Society can’t keep up with this pace”, he tells RTL Nieuws.
So what’s the solution?
Both economists land in the same place: immigration.
More migrants could ease labour shortages and offset rising pension costs, though Van Loenen acknowledges that opens up an entirely separate debate in the current political climate.
Do you want children in the Netherlands, or has the housing market put you off? Let us know in the comments below.
Looking for something quirky and unforgettable to do in Amsterdam this week? Head straight to De Poezenboot — The Catboat! 🐈⬛⛵
This one-of-a-kind floating sanctuary is exactly what it sounds like: a boat full of cats chilling right on the canals of Amsterdam.
It’s purr-fect for animal lovers, curious travellers, and anyone who wants to meet a furry friend or two while enjoying the city’s charm. 🐾💕
A bit of history 🐾
Believe it or not, The Catboat has been floating since 1968! 🚢 💛 Founded by cat lover, Ms Van Weelde, this floating refuge has been a safe space for hundreds of felines over the years.
And although cats and water aren’t exactly besties, many have happily traded their fear of water for warm beds, belly rubs, and a second chance at life.
What can you do there?
Pet the cats, of course! Many of these feline residents are rescues — once strays or abandoned, now lounging like royalty on a boat.
Visitors are welcome to hang out, cuddle a cat or two, and soak in the peaceful vibes. 🐾
However, The Catboat is first and foremost an animal sanctuary. This means that some of the cats are up for adoption if you’re ready to give one a forever home.
But if adopting feels like too much right now and you still want to help, you can also support them financially — every little bit goes towards food, care, and vet bills. 💛
Behind the scenes, the dedicated staff work hard to catch strays and offer neutering services to pet owners who can’t afford it, making a real difference for cats all over Amsterdam. 😺
Nope! Entry is completely free, but donations are greatly appreciated. Every euro goes towards food, medical care, and cosy blankets for the kitties. 🧶🐾
The Catboat is open to visitors three days a week, and spots are limited — only 6 people at a time are allowed onboard to keep things calm for the cats. 🧘♀️
🗓 When can I visit? Visiting hours are from 13:00 to 15:00 on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. You may have to wait if there are too many people onboard.
📍 Where can I find it? You’ll spot this cosy cat haven at Singel 38 G, 1015 AB Amsterdam, nestled among the beautiful canals in the heart of the city. Just follow the meows. 😺
So if you’re wandering the streets of Amsterdam and hear a soft meow echoing across the canal, follow the sound. The Catboat is waiting. 😻
Will you visit De Poezenboot? Don’t forget your camera — and maybe a lint roller. 📸🧥🐾
Imagine you’re at a bar sipping biertjesat an intimate gathering with friends, minding your own business. Still, the ear-splitting elephant in the room has gone unaddressed: Dutch music.
That’s right, people shakily sing in Dutch along to the notes of a tone-deaf melody, while thunderous music accompanies them. On purpose. Sometimes in front of crowds of people.
Without further ado, join us as we smile, weep, cover our ears, or wince our way through the key features of the, let’s say, niche phenomenon that is Dutch music.
Why must the volume be cranked up til our ears bleed?
Ever been to a concert, music event, or bar — or even a department store in some cases — where they blast Spotify’s deafening “Top 50 Songs in the Netherlands” playlist?
Nee?Goed. Even if you don’t keel over in pain at the insane volume levels right away (which many of us do), you may find that you wake up the next day with a high-pitched ringing sound deep inside your tympanic membrane.
Except it’s not a mosquito in your room this time.
Instead, it’s our old friend tinnitus — a sign of permanent hearing damage.
That’s right, Dutch music volumes can be heard from several cities away, which leaves us sleep-deprived, in physical pain, and maddened. 🤪
I slept for about 6 hours 'cause I woke up to a nearby school playing Dutch trance music with the volume at max.
In 2016, the Amsterdam Medical Centre found that one in four Dutch people between the ages of 12 and 25 was suffering from hearing loss on some level.
The culprit? You guessed it. Prolonged periods spent listening to the ear-assault that is Dutch club music, as well as headphones and “portable music players”.
This may explain why many Dutch people shamelessly wear earplugs at festivals or concerts, without sacrificing any “street cred” in the process.
To be fair, it’s not considered as uncool as in other countries where volume levels are comparatively mild and mellow.
Casually uncensored, super explicit lyrics
Dutch music artists and DJs really don’t hold back when it comes to the volume knob, or… the lyrics.
Maybe it’s because of that infamous Dutch directness, but Dutch song lyrics aren’t prone to subtlety, euphemisms or beating around the bush.
In fact, they tend to just go straight for the jugular. 🤬
Again, this is a headphone warning, but also a disclaimer to not play this song out loud, especially while a dear Dutch oma (grandma) is in earshot — although, hey, maybe she’ll love it.
Perhaps it’s good that not all of us can understand it. What we do know is that this type of distinctly Dutch vulgarity makes every other English-speaking rapper seem like an uptight vicar by comparison. 😵💫
The obstruction of judgment that is (trash) techno music
Take EDM or techno — a musical genre characterised by its synthesisers and drum machines — combine it with the Dutch flair for eardrum-bursting volumes, and voila: you have my personal nightmare. 🙂
Exhibit A: consider this YouTube snippet down below…
(This is your headphone warning ahead of time.)
I mean, who could the core demographic of this…monstrosity, this music that gives you the wrong kind of goosebumps, possibly be?
As it turns out, all the 50,000 attendees present — most of whom presumably did book tickets by choice.
At least there’s a silent disco after-party on Friday and Saturday to recuperate 🤷♀️.
These types of tasteless beats might be largely wordless, but we can sure as hell tell they’re Dutch since the Netherlands relishes festivals with “harder styles”.
Dutch indie music — it’s a thing, and it’s emotionally abusive
Want to avoid falling down the stairs, collapsing at the office, and curling up, sobbing, into a self-pitying foetal position?
Well, then, heed this advice: steer clear of Dutch indie music.
Those direct Dutch lyrics, croaky guttural sounds, and harsh consonants somehow make for an even more brutal, grungey take on the genre you thought was hard-hitting enough in English.
These tunes will strike a nerve in you that you didn’t know you had, get you right in your feels, and drive you into an existential soul-search, as you stare up at the ceiling while lying on your bedroom floor.
Never has anyone been so candid about the trials and tribulations of “de Schevenings leven” (Scheveningen life):
Who says the breakdown can’t be taken to the dancefloor?
Despite tackling subject matter like drug addiction, poverty, break-ups, and the football team Ajax, Dutch indie artists somehow manage to turn out gems that are upbeat to the point of being danceable.
As you find yourself jumping up and down to the indie classics while strobe lighting washes over you, you’ll just have to embrace that crying-in-the-club aesthetic fully.
It’s an emotional rollercoaster, and we just have to ask the Dutch — why? 😭
Expect to have it on replay in your head for at least another 48 hours. You’ll be left with fewer friends and family afterwards (because they just don’t get it, okay?)
Questionable Dutch remakes of English classics
In all fairness, why shouldn’t Dutchies have the right to belt out their favourite tunes in their native language? After all, it’s a privilege all English speakers are spoiled by.
It’s not their fault that they can’t claim Justin Bieber, Adele, or any other world-famous pop star as a Dutch national.
Instead, the British Empire out-colonising the Dutch in the 17th century is to blame for the fact that Ed Sheeran’s soppy English crooning makes for more of a universal hit song than, say, the Dutch tour de force, Drank en Drugs.
Okay yes, it is catchy. Image: Freepik
If either genuine or morbid curiosity compels you to listen to Dutch remakes of all the catchiest songs from the last decade (remember when Avicii was a thing), do check out this playlist.
Granted, Dutchies are probably more prone to dancing or crying to them than internationals, but some of them are… kinda good?
Some are even, dare we say, better than the original at points (we’re sorry, Harry Styles, if by some miraculous stroke of luck, you’re reading this, we love you).
Like any country’s musical body of work, Dutch songs are multifaceted.
Some will have you in the throes of existential doom, some make for excellent angry workout music, while some Dutch music is best kept within the confines of a shower stall. 👀
Did these song samples leave you pleasantly surprised or give you the wrong kind of musical goosebumps? Let us know in the comments below!
In a statement released yesterday, KLM explained that flights would be cut or changed this month due to rising kerosene prices.
While they noted that there is no kerosene shortage as yet, rising costs mean some flights “cannot currently be operated profitably”.
The airline expects to cut up to 80 return flights (or 160 individual flights) this May. Some routes being cut are flown multiple times a day, such as those to London or Düsseldorf.
The cancellations are scheduled to begin during the last week of April, which coincides with the Dutch school holiday period.
What’s changing?
While the statement did not specify which routes are being cut (other than mentioning London and Düsseldorf), it stated that all affected routes are within Europe.
KLM also explained that any affected passengers would be “rebooked onto the next available flight.”
Despite the upcoming rush of holiday travel, the airline is assuring customers that their vacation destinations will be reachable.
The conflict in the Middle East has caused untold difficulty for the transport sector, and KLM isn’t the only airline affected by rising fuel prices.
As Politico reports, Lufthansa is having to accelerate a planned cut of 27 planes due to fuel costs.
While there is no shortage of fuel as of yet, International Energy Agency Chief Fatih Birol told the AP that Europe only has “six weeks of jet fuel left.”
With that in mind, it seems like this KLM cut may just be the beginning.
Has your flight been affected by the cuts? Let us know in the comments!
The Netherlands is on course to have the steepest aviation tax in the entire European Union by 2027, with airline KLM warning that the consequences go well beyond pricier tickets.
From next year, travellers from the Netherlands will pay an average of over €40 in aviation tax per ticket — though the exact cost depends on your ticket.
If that sounds painful enough for your wallet, just wait until you hear the EU average sits at roughly €5. As KLM reports, this makes the Dutch rate more than eight times higher than the European average.
Here’s what you’ll actually pay
For medium-haul destinations like Turkey, Egypt, or Morocco, passengers will pay €48 in aviation tax per person in 2027. Yup, that’s a steep 60% jump on current rates.
However, it gets worse.
For long-haul routes to the United States, Suriname, or Asia, the tax rises by as much as 140%.
To put that into perspective, a family of four flying to New York would pay nearly €290 in aviation tax alone. That’s €72 per ticket, before a single euro goes to the airline or the airport.
This increase is a carryover from the previous cabinet’s plans, and it puts the current coalition in a peculiar position: its own coalition agreement specifically calls for a single, uniform European aviation tax, yet this hike runs in the exact opposite direction.
With significantly higher flight taxes in the Netherlands, Dutch travellers opt to fly from Germany or Belgium. Image: Depositphotos
Dutch flyers are being pushed across the border
Research by Markeffect, commissioned by the airline, found that 74% of Dutch flyers say they would consider departing from foreign airports more frequently if the aviation tax continues to rise.
And it doesn’t take a data report to see that this trend is already well underway.
KLM warns that if passengers consistently reroute through foreign hubs, airlines will eventually cut destinations from Dutch airports altogether.
That means fewer direct routes for everyone travelling to or from the Netherlands: expats, businesses, international students, and the broader Dutch economy.
Something’s got to give
Naturally, this hits expats and internationals twice as hard.
Visiting family in Asia, the Americas, or North Africa is already expensive — paying an extra €72 per person in tax on top of a long-haul fare is a significant additional burden.
MPs have previously raised concerns about this exact scenario, and KLM is now formally calling on the government to align Dutch aviation tax rates with those of neighbouring countries.
However, whether the cabinet acts on that is another question entirely.
Will you be looking at flights from Brussels or Düsseldorf to dodge the higher tax, or are you sticking with Schiphol? Let us know in the comments.
There are many benefits to becoming a freelancer in the Netherlands: you determine your own hours, decide how you want your business to be run, and maybe you’re a #girlboss — but with this title comes several important points to consider.
For example, what will you do if you get sick? Do you know how to submit your BTW (VAT)? How much should you charge?
From one freelancer to another, here are seven very important things you should know before becoming a freelancer in the Netherlands.
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1. You may need to hire an accountant
Sometimes, all you need is a professional to sit you down and tell you what to do. This is why many freelancers hire accountants to help them with their taxes.
As a ZZP’er (freelancer) in the Netherlands, you’re expected to pay your BTW (VAT) every fiscal quarter. On top of that, you’ll be filing your annual income tax.
Especially as an international, you may need some extra assistance when filing your taxes. Image: Dreamstime
This is already tricky for someone who understands Dutch, let alone someone who doesn’t speak the language.
I’d recommend hiring an accountant, at least for your first year as a ZZP’er. They’ll make sure you know how to do everything by the book. Once you feel confident enough to try it yourself, you can always spread your wings.
Good to know: If you don’t want to shell out for an accountant, apps like Finom offer automated invoices, expense management, and a range of accounting tools.
Similarly, banks like Revolut, bunq, and Qonto offer in-depth accounting tools — perfect if you’re also looking for a business bank account to help manage your invoices.
2. You need to become an admin wiz
It’s also up to you to keep on top of your administration. This means creating spreadsheets of your hours worked, tracking your stock, your expenses, and the tax you owe — and yes, it can be overwhelming.
Thankfully, many online tools can help freelancers with this.
3. It’s up to you to set up (and pay into) a pension plan
One thing about being your own boss is that there’s no employer to take care of the bureaucracy — so it’s up to you to set up your own pension.
The AOW or Algemene Ouderdomswet (National Old Age Pension Act) is a basic pension provided by the Dutch government to anyone who lives and works in the Netherlands.
This means that, even if you’re an international, you will receive an AOW pension for the years you worked in the Netherlands.
As a ZZP’er, it will be up to you to pay into your own pension plan. Image: Freepik
However, the AOW will only provide you with a very meagre allowance, which will likely not be enough to support you through retirement.
Instead, in the Netherlands, it’s very common for people to supplement their state pension throughout their working lives. This is often done in two ways:
By personally contributing to a private pension account
By having an employer who pays into an employee pension fund
As a self-employed person in the Netherlands, you will not be able to rely on an employee pension, which means it’s up to you to contribute to your own private pension fund to supplement your government pension.
Good to know: The Netherlands is home to a few expat-friendly pension programmes, like Brand New Day.
4. You need to take out insurance in case you fall ill
Life happens, which means that sometimes, you find yourself unable to work due to illness or disability.
Unlike when you are employed, as a freelancer in the Netherlands, it’s up to you to set up an insurance package that will help supplement your income should you ever find yourself unable to work.
You can take out private illness or occupational disability insurance
You can take out something called ‘individual occupational disability insurance with collective conditions’
You can participate in a ‘schenkkring’, a donation fund set up by a group of entrepreneurs. Each month, you donate to the fund, and should you ever become unable to work, you will receive some money from the fund for the first two years. The number of people in the group is usually limited.
You can take part in ‘crowdsurance.’ Similar to a ‘schenkkring’, a group of entrepreneurs will contribute to a fund for participants.
5. Your minimum wage is different to the normal minimum wage
As a freelancer, you’re also responsible for determining what you need to charge to cover your costs and pay yourself a livable wage.
Your minimum wage is much higher than that of regular employees. Image: Freepik
This means you must charge more than the national minimum wage per hour. Why? Because you will also need to cover the cost of your insurance, sick leave, and pension.
As a result, it is suggested that the minimum hourly rate you should ask for as a freelancer in the Netherlands is €33, with the average hourly rate sitting between €40 and €50.
6. You are financially liable for your own business
When you’re employed by someone, the worst thing that can happen if the business fails is that you will lose your job. While this is quite unpleasant, as a ZZP’er, it could be much worse.
If your business fails to turn a profit and falls into debt, then that means you’re falling into debt. Your business is tied to your personal finances, and if it suffers, so do you.
As a ZZP’er, you’re financially liable when it comes to your business. Image: Freepik
7. You need to be aware of false self-employment
Many businesses in the Netherlands will hire people as freelancers when, in reality, they should hire them as employees. This is known as false self-employment.
You are likely under false self-employment if:
You cannot determine your own hours
You cannot decide how you will carry out the work
You cannot subcontract your work to someone else
People often find themselves working as a false freelancer when they are offered a job with the condition that they register themselves as a ZZP’er with the KvK.
However, by becoming a ZZP’er under these conditions, you essentially become an employee without employee benefits. Your employer doesn’t have to pay into a pension fund for you, they don’t need to insure you, and it’s up to you to sort your taxes.
Note: As of 2026, the Dutch government has announced that it will crack down on businesses that use false freelancers. The hope is that this will encourage businesses to properly hire employees when they should.
Becoming a ZZP’er can be a very exciting step in your life in the Netherlands — just make sure you’re informed before you enter the ring. 💪
Are you working as a freelancer in the Netherlands? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
Dutch house prices fell in the first quarter of 2026, supply is up, and buyers are getting more time to make decisions.
However, before you crack open the bubbly and start dreaming of the home you’ll buy, we need to take a closer look at the fine print.
Here’s what the latest figures from real estate agent association NVM actually mean for anyone trying to buy in the Netherlands right now.
What’s changed for home buyers in the Netherlands?
According to NVM’s figures, the average sale price of an existing home was €485,000 last quarter, down 2.7% compared to the last quarter of 2025.
Given that the average seasonal dip around this period is 1.2%, we’re experiencing what the NVM describes as “a price drop that is steeper than usual.”
And, with supply climbing to just under 30,000 properties in Q1 (over 20% higher than a year ago), there are also more homes on the market.
A few factors are driving the sudden slump in demand, including mortgage rates edging up slightly at the end of 2025, a drop in consumer confidence, and global economic uncertainty, which is making people more cautious.
While house prices are down, you’ll have no such luck with mortgage rates. Image: Dreamstime
However, even with less pressure to overbid wildly, there’s a catch: two-thirds of homes are still selling above asking price, with an average premium of 3.7%.
In the words of NVM chair, Lana Goutsmits-Gerssen, this “gives buyers more breathing room, but it does not mean that the housing market is suddenly relaxed. Affordability remains under pressure, and there is still a shortage in many regions.”
The kind of home you’re buying matters
It goes without saying that not all properties are treated equally — energy-efficient, fully-furnished homes are still selling like hot pannenkoeken.
Meanwhile, homes with a poor energy label, a high price tag, or a less desirable location are sitting on the market longer.
If you’re looking at new-build properties, the picture is more complicated. Supply has jumped to around 18,200 homes (the highest since 2016), but sales fell, with roughly 5,600 new builds sold in the first quarter of 2026.
Buyers are especially hesitant about new builds. Image: Dreamstime
What’s making people hit the brakes? According to the NVM, buyers are hesitant because of long lead times between purchase and completion, high bridging costs, and krimpflatie (shrinkflation).
The latter, in particular, refers to a scenario where house prices look stable, but the square meterage keeps quietly shrinking.
What this means for you
The bottom line is that, while the Dutch housing market is less frantic than it was, it’s still not a buyer’s market.
Supply remains short of demand in most regions, and borrowing power is still the main constraint for most people.
However, there are also a few upsides — key among them the average selling time of 32 days, versus the near-instant turnaround of peak years.
Are you currently trying to buy a house in the Netherlands? Tell us how it’s going in the comments below.
Thinking about taking a day trip from Amsterdam? Wat leuk! (How nice!) While there is heaps to seein the Dutch capital, you can discover even more outside the city.
Picking what to do and see in a short time can be confusing and complicated — but we have some top travel recommendations, no matter what you want to explore!
Here are 19 of the best day trips you can take from Amsterdam, sorted by distance. 😉
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
If you won’t be in the city for long, a 30-minute day trip from Amsterdam is perfect for getting out of the city for a day. Here are our best picks for nearby towns and cities.
1. Zaanse Schans: a picture-perfect town of windmills
A trip to the Netherlands would be incomplete without seeing windmills — and there’s no better way to see them than in the historical town of Zaanse Schans.
This quaint village gives visitors a clear impression of Dutch life in the 17th and 18th centuries.
From cheese and dairy factories to traditional windmills and historical museums, you’ll live, breathe, and experience the old Zaan style of living. Classic!
🚗 Travel time by car: 21 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Zaanse Schans, 17 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Zaanse windmills, Honig Breethuis, Museumwinkel
2. Haarlem: the river city
An ideal day trip from Amsterdam, Haarlem is located between the Spaarne River and coastal dunes — did someone say beach? 🏖
Wouldn’t you love to take a walk along the Spaarne river? Image: Depositphotos
This city has everything: bustling markets and shopping streets, plenty of family-friendly cultural activities like museums, comedy clubs, concerts, and restaurants offering a world of cuisines.🍴
If you’re looking for a change of scenery but still want to have lots of activities to do, Haarlem is the place for you.
🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Haarlem, 19 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: St. Bavo’s Kerk (church), Grote Markt, Bloemendaal aan Zee
3. Broek in Waterland: a village fit for sea captains
Broek in Waterland made a name for itself back in the 16th century — a popular vacation destination for sea captains! 🧑🏻✈
If you’re looking for a getaway from the big city, Broek in Waterland is the definition of an idyllic Dutch town.
With a population of barely 3,000, this village has quiet streets and picturesque surroundings. 🌿
There’s a reason sea captains had an affinity for this town. Image: Depositphotos
Its standout feature is its traditional wooden houses, with more than 80 of them considered National Heritage Sites.
There are also lots of biking and walking routes nearby. If you’re looking to get some fresh air and exercise while on a day trip from Amsterdam, check out the biking tours around the town!
🚗 Travel time by car: 14 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Broek in Waterland, 18 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Traditional village townhouses
4. Marken: a former island in the Zuiderzee
Marken was separated from the Dutch mainland in the 13th century by a storm, becoming an island in the Markermeer lake. ⛈️
Residents of the town built wooden houses on artificial hills to prevent further flooding damage. To this day, these picturesque homes remain a popular cultural attraction.
Only nine kilometres in area, you can easily walk across the whole island.
On your walk, you can visit the cosy town harbour or enjoy the scenic route of fields, forests, and the lakeshore. 🚣🏼
This town has historical connections to Volendam, so you could make it a longer day trip from Amsterdam and visit two towns with one ferry. 😉
🚗 Travel time by car: 27 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Marken, 45 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Paard van Marken Lighthouse, The Marken Museum
5. Volendam: a traditional Dutch fishing town
Volendam is the best-known fishing village in the Netherlands. You can visit the old harbour full of traditional Dutch ships, many of which are still in use! 🎣
This day trip from Amsterdam would be incomplete without trying some of their lekker (tasty) fish delicacies. You can finally conquer your fear of raw herring and smoked eel, or stick to the classic kibbeling (deep-fried codfish).
Fresh ocean air and delicious food. What else could you ask for? Image: Depositphotos
Volendam is also one of the few towns where you can experience traditional Dutch clothing.
If you have a little more time on your hands, you can check out these day trips away from Amsterdam!
They’re just a tad further from the Dutch capital, but you’ll see some beautiful monuments and sites if you make the trip.
6. Hoorn: the pearl of the IJsselmeer
Hoorn is located by the IJsselmeer, an artificial sea-turned-lake in Noord-Holland. This harbour town has a lively centre with plenty of shops, terraces, and restaurants to enjoy.
If you’re looking for an authentic Dutch maritime village, Hoorn is the place to go.
Hey, Hoorn isn’t so bad for an “artificial” island. Image: Depositphotos
You can also check out historical monuments like the historic ship, 16th-century warehouses, the 16th-century defence tower, and the Oosterkerk (Eastern Church) for fishers and sailors!
If you want to get active, you can try some water sports (though we can’t guarantee comfortable water temperatures 🥶) or take a walk on the beach and through the dunes around the area. 🚶🏻
🚗 Travel time by car: 35 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Hoorn, 33 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Westfries Museum, The Red Square, De Hoornse Straatjes
7. Leiden: the city of arts and sciences
With the canals and architecture to rival Amsterdam, Leiden might be one of the most underrated places for a day trip from Amsterdam.
We should know — it’s home to our headquarters and one of our favourite Dutch cities! 😉
Leiden is also home to cute, unique shops where you can buy handmade ceramics, old-fashioned mechanical wristwatches, and vintage records.
A university city since 1575, Leiden has been a prominent centre of art and science worldwide.
The inner city is full of museums and historical buildings, such as the Leiden Citadel and the old city gates. It was also home to more Dutch artists than you might expect — Rembrandt, Steen, and more! 👨🏼🎨
Plenty of trains pass through Leiden, making it a convenient day trip from Amsterdam. 😌
🚗 Travel time by car: 42 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Leiden Centraal, 43 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Hortus Botanicus Leiden, Hooglandse Kerk, Museum de Lakenhal
8. Utrecht: the very centre of the Dutch mainland
Utrecht is the Netherlands’ bright, beating heart, connecting the east to the west at the centre of the Netherlands.
Built around the Dom Tower, you can see this spectacular monument from all around the city — so you’ll never get lost.
The historic city is surrounded by an old moat called De Singel, built for defence in the 12th century.
One of the most special parts of Utrecht is its unique terraces: landings right next to the canals, which are lined with bars and restaurants.
Try combining two very Dutch things: canals and terraces! Image: Depositphotos
With lots of places to shop and eat, cultural spots like museums and concert halls, access to nature, and beautiful inner-city sites, you won’t run out of things to do in Utrecht.
This city is a super convenient day trip from Amsterdam because of the direct intercity train (the fast train that runs between cities) that runs every 4 hours. The journey is less than 30 minutes! 🚅
🚗 Travel time by car: 44 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Utrecht Centraal, 26 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Dom Tower, Rietveld Schröder House, Hoog Catharijne
9. Rotterdam: a city with an unmatched skyline
A city of skyscrapers, bright buildings, and modern facades, Rotterdam is the metropolis of the Netherlands. 🏙
Rotterdam was heavily bombed during World War II, which is why you see far less iconic Dutch architecture from the 17th century, like in Amsterdam or Leiden.
The city has a thriving nightlife scene, sophisticated shopping streets and markets, hip cultural attractions, and a wealth of good food.
Rotterdam might be best known for its expansive port and the iconic skyline that graces the river Maas. ⛴
It’s also a convenient day trip from Amsterdam, with direct intercity trains running every 15 minutes from the central station!
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 1 minute 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Rotterdam Centraal, 41 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Markthal, The Euromast, The Cube Houses, Blijdorp Zoo
10. The Hague: city of justice
The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands, making it a perfect pairing for a day trip from Amsterdam, the cultural capital.
This Dutch city, filled with historical monuments and museums, is the only major city with a beach and has an international scene second to none in the Netherlands.
The Hague is home to the Dutch parliament. Image: Depositphotos
You can enjoy a beautiful city centre with places to eat and shop to your heart’s desire, or perhaps go hiking in one of many scenic locations in the Hague, like the Haagse Bos.
If you’re looking to dip your feet in the (albeit freezing) sea, look no further than Scheveningen Pier.
It’s the perfect place to sit by the beach, grab a drink, and enjoy the sea, whether it’s doing water sports or just lounging. 🙂
🚗 Travel time by car: 58 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Haag Centraal, 53 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Peace Palace, Buitenhof, Madurodam, Scheveningen Pier, and Boardwalk
11. Delft: home to Vermeer and Delft Blaauw
Delft has an international reputation as the hometown of Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer and as the originator of Delft Blaauw (Delft Blue) pottery.
It is the definition of a full-sized city with a small-town feeling — gezellig! 🔵
Don’t miss Delft’s stunning main square. Image: Depositphotos
The city boasts beautiful architecture and historical sights like the Eastern Gate from the old city walls to the New Church of Delft.
If you’re curious about experiencing another student city, Delft’s busy nightlife will keep you up on your feet all night long. 💃🏻
🚗 Travel time by car: 59 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Delft, 1 hour and 5 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Delft City Hall, Old Church of Delft
12. Gouda: the birthplace of iconic Dutch cheese
Which came first, the cheese or the city? For Gouda, the city is the namesake for this world-famous cheese. 🧀
It’s a surprisingly old city with plenty of monuments and buildings dating back to the 13th century, like the city hall (formerly surrounded by a moat) and St. John’s Church.
Fun fact: Gouda is actually NOT the cheese capital of the Netherlands. Image: Pixabay
The city is quaint, but the centre bustles with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Check out the weekly Markt (market) on Thursdays and Saturdays and the first Fairtrade Street in the Netherlands, where all street food is sustainably produced and sold!
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Gouda, 53 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Gouda cheese market, Old City Hall, The Waag (weigh house) Museum
13. Schiedam: home to the world’s tallest windmill
Yep, you heard that right! While there are windmills all around the Netherlands, Schiedam has the tallest traditional windmills of all, standing at 26.6 metres. 🍃
That’s one tall (and old) windmill. Image: Depositphotos
Schiedam is also known for being the Netherlands’s gin capital, with the city producing the most jenever (also known as Dutch gin) in the country.
There are also several museums where you can see the production process. 🍸
Apart from windmills and gin, you can visit Gothic cathedrals, 14th-century churches, and history museums, creating an excellent combination of culture and recreation in one day trip from Amsterdam!
🚗 Travel time by car: 55 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Schiedam Centrum, 1 hour and 8 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: National Jenever Museum, Jenever ‘t Spul, Liduina Basilica, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam
Day trips over an hour from Amsterdam
If you’re looking to get out of the region and visit a far-off place (for Dutch standards), here are some longer day trips from Amsterdam!
14. Dordrecht: a historic trading port
Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland (we mean the old province of Holland and not the so-called “country”!).
There are plenty of cultural spots, including seven churches and several historical monuments-turned-museums.
As the oldest city in Holland, Dordrecht gets its own flag! Image: Dreamstime
While most of the Netherlands is surrounded by canals and dikes, water and boats make a unique part of Dordrecht’s cityscape.
As an old trading port, there are plenty of historic boats scattered around the old harbours connected by canals. On your day trip from Amsterdam, check out the canal network and catch a boat tour! 🚤
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 5 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Dordrecht Centraal,1 hour and 34 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Dordrechtsmuseum, Munt van Holland (Mint of Holland), Grote Kerk
If you go on a day trip from Amsterdam in July, Tilburg hosts a 10-day fair that draws more than a million visitors each year. 🎡
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 28 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Tilburg Centraal, 1 hour and 52 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Textielmuseum, Stadsmuseum Tilburg, Tilburg Kermis
16. Groningen: the hidden gem of the north
Despite being far away from most big cities, Groningen attracts many travel buffs, making it the perfect day trip from Amsterdam if you really want to get out of your surroundings.
Groningen has a compact city centre with restaurants and shops, beautiful sites like the Martini Tower and Grote Markt, and contemporary art museums. 🗼
As a student city, Groningen has exciting nightlife — plenty of clubs and bars included. 😉
Along with an energetic centre, quiet countryside surrounds Groningen city, which you can enjoy.
You can hike on one of the beautiful trails through the dunes and along the coast or take a cycle route around artificial hills, forests, and old forts.
🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Groningen Station, 2 hours ⭐ Don’t miss: Groninger Museum, Martinitoren, Groningen City Centre
17. Den Helder: city of the sun
Surrounded by water on three sides, Den Helder is a maritime city at heart.
At the northernmost point of the Dutch coast, the city has many naval sights, including the largest naval base in the Netherlands.
Den Helder boasts a rich history with the largest Dutch naval base, a historic harbour, and fascinating marine attractions, including the North Sea Aquarium and three museum ships (museums housed in historic ships from the Dutch Navy!).
If you’re seeking nature and scenery, the city has a wide variety of landscapes — you can take a refreshing hike around the dunes and polders surrounding the Wadden Sea.
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 10 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Helder, Steiger TESO, 1 hour and 40 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Fort Kijkduin, The Marine Museum, Lange Jaap Lighthouse
18. Giethoorn: Venice of the Netherlands
A picture-perfect landscape, Giethoorn is an almost entirely car-free village, replaced with boats and, of course, bicycles.
Giethoorn is a Dutch town through and through — with winding canals, countless boats, and quaint, matching houses, it doesn’t get more gezellig than this. 🧘🏻
🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 26 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Blauwe Hand Bus Station, 2 hours ⭐ Don’t miss: Boat tour through Giethoorn, Gondola festival, Giethoorn walking route
19. Bourtange: the medieval fortress village
While the name suggests a beautiful rural town in France, Bourtange is actually in the Netherlands! Although it might be the longest day trip from Amsterdam yet.
This small village in the north is a perfectly restored medieval fortress town, built in the shape of a star. ⭐️
With a population of 430 people, there isn’t much room for proper shopping, but you can check out smaller quirky shops with Delfs Blaauw pottery, candles, other gifts, and trinkets.
We recommend exploring the medieval architecture, which you’ll find all over the city. From fortified walls and traditional houses to windmills, visiting Bourtange is like visiting a village-sized museum!
🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 35 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Bourtange Bus Station, 3 hours and 16 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: City fortifications, Church of Bourtange
20. Texel: a Dutch island escape
For a breath of fresh air on your day trip from Amsterdam, hop on a ferry to Texel: the largest of the Wadden Islands in the north of the Netherlands.
Just a short trip from the mainland, this island is a perfect escape from city life, offering stunning nature, charming villages, and plenty of activities for every type of traveler.
Believe it or not, this is the Netherlands! Image: Depositphotos
One of the best ways to explore Texel is by bike — with over 140 kilometres of cycling paths, you can easily ride through Duinen van Texel National Park, a breathtaking coastal reserve with dunes, forests, and heathlands.
Beach lovers can relax on De Koog, one of Texel’s most famous beach towns, or take a mudflat walking tour during low tide to experience the seabed up close. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or craving a beach day, Texel is for you.
🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 14 minutes 🚃 Travel time by public transport: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Helder – Texel, 3 hours and 9 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: National Park Duinen van Texel, Eierland Lighthouse, beaches
For a mix of history, seaside beauty, and authentic Dutch culture, Zierikzee is a hidden gem worth discovering on a day trip from Amsterdam.
Located in Zeeland, this medieval town boasts over 500 monuments, including the impressive Sint-Lievensmonstertoren, which you can climb for panoramic views of the coastline.
A stroll through the picturesque harbour brings you past centuries-old fishing boats, and a visit to the Maritime Museum will teach you all about the town’s seafaring past.
Foodies, you’re in luck: The region is famous for its seafood, so don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh Zeeland oysters, mussels, or lobster at a waterfront restaurant.
🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 20 minutes 🚃 Travel time by public transport: Amsterdam Centraal – Zierikzee, Sas, 2 hours and 51 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Oosterschelde National Park, harbours
There are a couple of ways to get around for day trips in the Netherlands, depending on what you’re comfortable with: taking public transport, hiring a car, or cycling.
Using Dutch public transport for day trips
Public transport in the Netherlands is reliable and easy to use. Most cities have trains, trams, and buses, and some, like Rotterdam and Amsterdam, even have metros and ferries.
If you’re travelling between cities, you can buy many types of (cheap) train tickets. The day ticket is the most common and accessible ticket to travel on any train during off-peak hours.
If you’re travelling within a city, you can buy tickets for trams, buses, and metros at ticket kiosks that are usually located around the stop.
Alternatively, you can use your bank card to access the full range of Dutch transport. Use it like a travel pass by scanning it at any transport terminal.
A lot of the bigger cities in the Netherlands have their own tram networks. Image: Freepik
If you are staying in Amsterdam for longer and would like to take us up on a number of our day trip suggestions, an OV-chipkaart (public transport card) might be the thing for you.
You can usually buy an anonymous OV-chipkaart in any major train station. Just go to the NS service desk and ask to buy one! The staff would be happy to direct you further on how to load balance on your very own OV.
Hiring a car to visit Dutch towns and cities
There are five major car rental companies where you can hire a car: Avis Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt.
If you’re flying into Schiphol Airport, you can rent a car from one of these companies directly at the airport. You can either pre-book a car or just go with the flow and see what’s available upon arrival!
If you’re arriving in Amsterdam by another means, these car rental companies have rental locations across the city.
Biking on a day trip from Amsterdam
Biking around your desired day-trip city is a great way to get a feel for Dutch cycling culture!
If you have a personal OV chipkaart (only available to residents of the Netherlands), you can go full circle and rent an OV-fiets.
Cycling is hands down the best way to get around Amsterdam. Image: Depositphotos
The NS has set up bicycle rental locations at most train stations, bus and metro stops, which you can rent for a few hours at a time.
However, if you only have an anonymous OV-chipkaart or none at all, try renting a bicycle from one of the many options in Amsterdam. Different types of bicycles are available for hourly/daily rates.
You don’t need to bike like a seasoned Dutchie, but be extra careful while driving on the bike paths in Amsterdam’s city centre (and mentally prepare for locals yelling at you for being in their way).
What’s your favourite spot for a day trip from Amsterdam? Leave some suggestions in the comments!
Day trips from Amsterdam: frequently asked questions
What are the best day trips from Amsterdam?
Depending on how much time you have during your trip to Amsterdam, there are different trips you can take
Some beautiful locations are within 30 minutes by car or train, such as Haarlem or Volendam, while others can take two to three hours to reach, like Bourtange and Tilburg.
You can choose to visit smaller towns and villages or a big city like Rotterdam — depending on whether you want to visit another urban space or get a break in the quieter, more rural areas, there are plenty of locations to pick from.
Where can I see windmills near Amsterdam?
The closest windmill town to Amsterdam is Zaanse Schans, less than 30 minutes by either car or public transport. If you’re looking for other windmill locations, you can check out Kinderdijk and Schiedam, close to Rotterdam.
Where can I see tulips near Amsterdam?
Tulip season runs throughout spring, so the best time to see the Dutch tulips is from March to May. The most popular tulip attraction in the Netherlands is De Keukenhof in Lisse, a large flower garden that features tulips.
Lisse is about 1 hour and 22 minutes away from Amsterdam Centraal Station by public transport and 44 minutes by car. You can only enter the park with a ticket, so make sure to book them in advance if you’re interested in visiting.
There are other tulip fields by independent farmers in Lisse while walking or cycling around — usually, you can visit these parks for free, but there’s no guarantee the farmers will let tourists near their tulips.
Can you do a day trip from Amsterdam to Bruges?
Yes! You can take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Bruges.
Travel time and prices vary depending on the type of journey, which train you take, and whether you have transfers. The average travel time from Amsterdam to Bruges is between one to two hours.
Where is it easy to travel to from Amsterdam?
We recommend a location within 30 minutes from Amsterdam by car or train for extra easy travel. You can check out Haarlem if you want a change of scenery but want to stick to a city.
Smaller traditional towns like Marken and Volendam will give you a great impression of the scenic Dutch countryside.
If you want to see other big cities, Amsterdam has direct trains that run every 15 minutes to Rotterdam and Utrecht — you can get to the city in less than 30 minutes on these trains!
What’s close to Amsterdam by train?
Generally, the bigger the city/town, the easier it is to reach by train and public transport. So if you’re looking for a laidback day trip with public transport, going to a city like Den Haag, Leiden, and Gouda is the most convenient.
Intercity trains connect most of the Randstad cities, so these trains run consistently — every 15 minutes in both directions from 5 AM to 12 AM.
