It's easy to reach the beach from Amsterdam, whether by train, bus or ferry. Visit popular hotspots Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee for a Dutch-style beach party. Or venture out and find the tranquil dunes of the quieter stretches of the North Sea coast for a relaxing afternoon away from the city.

Alkmaar is a scenic historic town in the province of Noord-Holland. The city centre is enchanting, with canals and gable-topped houses. Established in 939, the town of Alkmaar is best known for its cheese products. A world-famous cheese market takes place each Friday from 10:00-12:30; from the beginning of April until the beginning of September. It features the traditional weighing of cheeses and colourful hagglers. The train ride from Amsterdam to Alkmaar takes 35 minutes.

The Zaanse Schans is a delightful village on the banks of the river Zaan with characteristic green wooden houses, charming stylized gardens, small bridges, tradesmen's workshops, historic windmills and engaging little shops. Learn more of the old Dutch crafts in the different windmills and museums or enjoy a pleasant cruise on the Zaan. Just 10 miles northwest of Amsterdam the Zaanse Schans is easily accessible by car, train or bus. Take the stop train direction Alkmaar to Koog-Zaandijk. From the station simply follow the signs to the Zaanse Schans. It is 5-minute walk from the station to the ferry. There is also an excellent bus service operating from Amsterdam Central Station direct to the Zaanse Schans. Bus 91 leaves Amsterdam Central Station twice hourly and stops at the St. Michael College next to the Museum and Zaanse Schans.

 

The prosperity from the Golden Age can still be seen in the historical town centre with its old streets and gates, and the many splendid monuments. The monumental harbour houses many lovely restaurants and bars. Hoorn has a direct and frequent train connection with Amsterdam Central Station (the train ride takes some 40 minutes). From Hoorn Station, it is only a few minutes stroll to the historic town centre.

 

Visit the city of Haarlem and take a stroll through historic streets. Admire the picturesque facades, the monuments and the museums. Haarlem is 15 minutes from Amsterdam by train.

An unprecedented wealth of spectacular floral displays planted in endless varieties, alternated with beautiful works of art. Keukenhof is unique, world famous and has been one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands for many years now. The most beautiful spring garden in the world will be open from 18th of March until 16st of May. Keukenhof is situated in Lisse, between Amsterdam and The Hague in the Bulb region. The easiest way to visit Keukenhof is Connexxion's all-in Combi-ticket. This is a return bus ticket to Keukenhof and an entrance ticket to Keukenhof.