12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
Day 1: Arrival and Amsterdam Introduction
Amsterdam, Netherlands
9:00am Breakfast at Pancakes Amsterdam
Start your trip with traditional Dutch pancakes at Pancakes Amsterdam, known for their
authentic recipes and cozy atmosphere.
EUR10, 1h
10:30am Amsterdam Canal Tour
Take a scenic 1-hour boat tour through Amsterdam’s iconic canals to get an overview of the
city's unique architecture and major highlights.
EUR20, 1h
12:00pm Visit Anne Frank House
Explore the historic Anne Frank House museum to learn about Anne Frank’s life and read
poignant excerpts from her diary. Book tickets in advance.
EUR16, 2h
2:30pm Lunch at Foodhallen
Enjoy a diverse range of street food in a lively indoor market atmosphere, offering Dutch and
international options.
EUR15, 1h
4:00pm Rijksmuseum Visit
Discover Dutch art and history including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the
Rijksmuseum. The museum is open until 5pm.
EUR20, 2h
7:00pm Dinner at The Seafood Bar
Dine at The Seafood Bar to enjoy fresh and sustainable seafood dishes in an elegant setting.
EUR40, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 2: Museums and Markets
Amsterdam, Netherlands
8:30am Breakfast at Bakers & Roasters
Indulge in a hearty breakfast combining New Zealand and Brazilian flavors in a hip café
setting.
EUR15, 1h
10:00am Van Gogh Museum
Visit the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings
including 'Sunflowers' and 'The Bedroom'. Open from 9am to 6pm.
EUR20, 2h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
12:30pm Lunch at De Belhamel
Enjoy lunch at De Belhamel, a charming canal-side bistro known for its fusion of French and
Belgian cuisine.
EUR30, 1h
2:00pm Stroll through Jordaan District
Take a leisurely walk through the Jordaan district to explore quaint streets, local boutiques,
art galleries, and cozy cafés.
Free, 2h
4:30pm Visit Albert Cuyp Market
Experience the lively local vibe at Albert Cuyp Market, the largest street market in
Amsterdam, offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
Free entry, 1.5h
7:30pm Dinner at Restaurant Greetje
Savor traditional Dutch cuisine in a warm atmosphere at Restaurant Greetje, known for
authentic recipes with locally sourced ingredients.
EUR35, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 3: Haarlem Day Trip
Haarlem, Netherlands
8:00am Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café
Have a light breakfast before taking the train to Haarlem, about 15-20 minutes from
Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR7, 1h
9:30am Visit Frans Hals Museum
Explore the stunning collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings at Frans Hals Museum, open
11am-5pm (closed Mondays).
EUR15, 2h
11:45am Walk through Grote Markt
Visit the historic Grote Markt square, lined with cafes and remarkable architecture including
St. Bavokerk church.
Free, 1h
12:45pm Lunch at Jopenkerk
Enjoy lunch at Jopenkerk, a brewery and restaurant in a beautifully restored church offering
craft beers and Dutch dishes.
EUR25, 1h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
2:00pm Teylers Museum
Visit the Netherlands’ oldest museum featuring art, natural history, and science exhibits;
open 10am-5pm.
EUR13, 1.5h
4:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Take the train back to Amsterdam for your evening at leisure.
EUR7, 30m
7:00pm Dinner at Moeders
Experience hearty Dutch home cooking at Moeders, a cozy restaurant celebrating traditional
recipes.
EUR30, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Haarlem, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 4: Windmills and Fishing Villages
Zaanse Schans and Volendam, Netherlands
7:30am Breakfast at hotel or local café
Early breakfast before taking a short trip to Zaanse Schans.
EUR7, 1h
9:00am Zaanse Schans Open-Air Museum
Explore the picturesque historic windmill village showcasing traditional crafts, wooden
houses, and working windmills. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR15, 2.5h
11:30am Travel to Volendam
Take a short drive or bus to the charming fishing village of Volendam.
EUR10, 30m
12:00pm Lunch at Restaurant de Lunch
Try fresh seafood and local specialties with a view of the harbor in Volendam.
EUR25, 1h
1:30pm Explore Volendam Harbor and Dike
Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy photo opportunities of traditional costumes and boats, and
visit quaint shops.
Free, 2h
3:30pm Visit Volendam Museum
Learn about the history and culture of Volendam with exhibits on fishing, costumes, and local
life. Open until 5pm.
EUR7, 1h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
5:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Travel back to Amsterdam and enjoy your evening at leisure.
EUR10, 30m
7:30pm Dinner at The Dutchess
Treat yourself to refined Dutch cuisine located in the W Amsterdam hotel, beautifully styled
and delicious.
EUR50, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Zaanse Schans and Volendam, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 5: Historic Utrecht
Utrecht, Netherlands
8:00am Breakfast at Broodnodig
Enjoy fresh artisan bread and coffee at a popular local bakery in Amsterdam before heading
to Utrecht.
EUR10, 1h
9:30am Train to Utrecht
The train ride takes about 30 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR10, 30m
10:00am Dom Tower Climb
Climb the 465 steps of the Dom Tower, Utrecht’s iconic landmark, for panoramic city views.
Open 10am-5pm.
EUR10, 1h
11:30am Canal-side Walk
Explore historic canals lined by unique wharves and cellars housing shops and cafés.
Free, 1h
12:30pm Lunch at De Rechtbank
Dine in a former courthouse offering a stylish ambiance and modern Dutch cuisine.
EUR30, 1h
2:00pm Centraal Museum Visit
Discover Utrecht art, history, and modern exhibits at the Centraal Museum, open until 5pm.
EUR15, 2h
4:30pm Return to Amsterdam
Head back to Amsterdam for evening relaxation.
EUR10, 30m
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
7:00pm Dinner at Stach
Casual dining spot offering fresh and healthy options perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
EUR25, 1h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Utrecht, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 6: Modern Rotterdam
Rotterdam, Netherlands
7:30am Breakfast near hotel
Fuel up early with breakfast near your accommodation before traveling to Rotterdam.
EUR10, 1h
8:45am Train to Rotterdam
A 40-minute high-speed train ride from Amsterdam Central Station to Rotterdam Central
Station.
EUR15, 40m
9:30am Markthal Visit
Visit the iconic Markthal, a vibrant indoor market hall with food stalls, shops, and impressive
architecture.
Free, 1h
10:30am Cube Houses Tour
Explore the quirky Cube Houses, innovative modern architecture, including a walk-through of
the Show Cube for interior views.
EUR3, 1h
12:00pm Lunch at Fenix Food Factory
Enjoy locally sourced artisanal foods in a lively industrial-style setting located in Katendrecht.
EUR20, 1h
1:30pm Visit Kunsthal Rotterdam
Explore diverse and contemporary art exhibitions at Kunsthal, open 10am-6pm.
EUR15, 2h
4:00pm Walk along Erasmus Bridge
Enjoy scenic views of Rotterdam’s skyline while walking across the modern Erasmus Bridge.
Free, 1h
6:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Take the train back to Amsterdam for your evening meal and rest.
EUR15, 40m
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
7:30pm Dinner at Restaurant Daalder
Experience innovative Dutch cuisine in a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exceptional
tasting menus.
EUR75, 2h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 7: The Hague Highlights
The Hague, Netherlands
7:30am Breakfast at hotel
Breakfast onsite before heading to The Hague by train.
EUR10, 1h
8:45am Train to The Hague
Journey takes approximately 50 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station.
EUR20, 50m
10:00am Mauritshuis Museum
See masterpieces such as Vermeer’s 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' and works by Rembrandt.
Open 10am-6pm.
EUR15, 1.5h
11:45am Walk to Binnenhof
Tour the historic parliamentary complex and its courtyard, the political heart of the
Netherlands.
Free, 1h
12:45pm Lunch at Bistro Bella Roma
Enjoy Italian-Dutch fusion dishes in a cozy setting near the city center.
EUR25, 1h
2:00pm Visit Escher in Het Paleis
Explore the museum dedicated to M.C. Escher’s mind-bending graphic art. Open 11am-5pm.
EUR12, 1h
3:30pm Relax on Scheveningen Beach
Take a tram or short ride to Scheveningen, the North Sea beach, for a relaxing walk or coffee
by the sea.
Free, 2h
6:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Travel back to Amsterdam for your evening plans.
EUR20, 50m
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
7:30pm Dinner at Cannibale Royale
Enjoy quality meats and Dutch comfort food in a lively atmosphere.
EUR35, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in The Hague, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 8: Leiden Day Exploration
Leiden, Netherlands
8:00am Breakfast at Omelegg
Start with savory and creative omelets at this popular Amsterdam breakfast spot before
traveling.
EUR15, 1h
9:30am Train to Leiden
Enjoy the approximately 35-minute train ride to Leiden.
EUR10, 35m
10:15am Visit Hortus Botanicus Leiden
Explore one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world featuring rare plants and
greenhouses. Open 10am-5pm.
EUR10, 1.5h
12:00pm Lunch at Stadscafé de Burcht
Dine near the historic Burcht van Leiden castle ruins offering local and seasonal dishes.
EUR20, 1h
1:30pm Burcht van Leiden Fortress
Explore this small medieval fortress for panoramic views of Leiden and the surrounding
canals.
Free, 1h
2:30pm Museum De Lakenhal
Visit this art and history museum showcasing Dutch Old Masters and contemporary art. Open
until 5pm.
EUR15, 1.5h
4:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Train back to Amsterdam to relax in the evening.
EUR10, 35m
7:00pm Dinner at Loetje
Savor one of the best steaks in Amsterdam at Loetje, a favorite among locals.
EUR40, 1.5h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Leiden, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 9: Giethoorn Canal Village
Giethoorn, Netherlands
7:00am Breakfast near hotel
Have a quick breakfast before an early departure to Giethoorn by train and bus (approx. 3
hours).
EUR10, 1h
8:00am Depart for Giethoorn
Start the scenic journey to Giethoorn, known as the 'Venice of the North'.
EUR40, 3h
11:30am Rent a Whisper Boat
Hire an electric whisper boat to explore the beautiful canals and bridges of Giethoorn at your
own pace.
EUR20, 2h
1:30pm Lunch at De Grachthof
Enjoy lunch in a lovely canal-side restaurant serving Dutch and European dishes.
EUR25, 1h
2:45pm Visit Giethoorn Museum
Learn about the local history and culture of this unique village. Open till 5pm.
EUR7, 1h
4:00pm Travel back to Amsterdam
Return by bus and train to Amsterdam for your final days.
EUR40, 3h
7:30pm Dinner at Brasserie Keyzer
Relax with a casual dinner offering traditional Dutch and international cuisine near central
Amsterdam.
EUR30, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Giethoorn, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 10: Southern Netherlands: Maastricht
Maastricht, Netherlands
7:00am Breakfast at hotel
Early breakfast to prepare for a day trip to the southern city of Maastricht by train (approx.
2.5 hours).
EUR10, 1h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
8:00am Train to Maastricht
Depart for Maastricht, known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture.
EUR40, 2.5h
10:30am Visit Vrijthof Square
Explore the large public square surrounded by bars, cafes, and the impressive St. Servatius
Church.
Free, 1h
11:30am Walk through the Old Town
Wander Maastricht’s cobblestone streets to soak in history, shops, and cozy cafés.
Free, 1.5h
1:00pm Lunch at Toine Hermsen Cuisinier
Taste fine dining with French and Dutch influences in an elegant setting near the city center.
EUR50, 1h
2:30pm Visit Bonnefanten Museum
Discover contemporary and old masters’ art at this single-building museum overlooking the
river Maas, open until 5pm.
EUR15, 1.5h
4:30pm Return to Amsterdam
Head back to Amsterdam by train for your evening rest.
EUR40, 2.5h
7:30pm Dinner at Pasta e Basta
Enjoy dinner with live music in a fun Italian restaurant back in Amsterdam.
EUR40, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Maastricht, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 11: Valkenburg and Caves
Valkenburg, Netherlands
7:00am Breakfast at hotel
Prepare for another day in southern Limburg with breakfast and early departure.
EUR10, 1h
8:00am Train to Valkenburg
Travel approximately 2.5 hours by train from Amsterdam to Valkenburg.
EUR40, 2.5h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
10:30am Visit Valkenburg Castle Ruins
Explore the largest castle ruins in the Netherlands, offering scenic views over the area. Open
10am-6pm.
EUR6, 1h
11:45am Explore Valkenburg Caves
Join a guided tour through the historic Valkenburg caves famed for marl mining and unique
carvings. Open 10am-5pm.
EUR10, 1h
1:00pm Lunch at Bistro Croquant
Enjoy local specialties including croquettes and other Dutch comfort foods in a cozy bistro.
EUR20, 1h
2:30pm Walk in Valkenburg Town
Stroll the charming streets of Valkenburg with quaint shops, cafés, and historic sites.
Free, 1.5h
4:00pm Return to Amsterdam
Travel back to Amsterdam for your final overnight stay.
EUR40, 2.5h
7:30pm Dinner at Café Winkel 43
Celebrate your last dinner with the best traditional Dutch apple pie and casual dining.
EUR25, 1.5h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Valkenburg, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Day 12: Farewell Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands
8:00am Breakfast at Stach
Enjoy a delicious last Dutch breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee at Stach.
EUR15, 1h
9:30am Visit the Hermitage Amsterdam
Tour the Hermitage Amsterdam with rotating exhibits from the Hermitage Museum in St.
Petersburg, open 10am-5pm.
EUR15, 1.5h
11:30am Shopping and Leisure Time
Spend your final afternoon strolling the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) for souvenir
shopping and cafés.
Free, 2h
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12-Day Cultural and Scenic Journey Through the Netherlands / Plantrip
1:30pm Lunch at Café de Klepel
Enjoy a classic Dutch lunch at a popular local bistro known for its cheese and signature
dishes.
EUR20, 1h
3:00pm Relax at Vondelpark
Take a peaceful walk or rest in Amsterdam’s most famous park before your departure.
Free, 1h
4:30pm Return to hotel and prepare for departure
Head back to your accommodation to collect luggage and arrange transport to the airport or
next destination.
Variable, 1h
Night Find The Perfect Hotel in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Back to your room for a good rest
Created June 4, 2025 - Page 11 of 11