day trips to amsterdam from london

Day Trip to Amsterdam from London

Gerrit Vandenberg

Gerrit shares his love for the Netherlands from his home near Amsterdam, helping thousands plan unforgettable trips to the lowlands. Discover his inspiring journey "From a critical health scare to celebrating Holland's charms" . If you want to send Gerrit a quick message, you can contact him here .

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Hi, I'm Gerrit

I enjoy sharing useful tips about the beauty of this county.

Can I make a day trip to Amsterdam from London?

Yes, Amsterdam is an easy day trip from London. In this article, I will tell you exactly how. You’re not crazy thinking this is possible because it is! 

I am a Dutch native and  love taking day trips across Europe . Trivial side note: this is how I met my other half. We shared a love for quick city trips. We traveled solo and thought it would be much nicer to go together.

For us, it would be the other way to London, but I know the connection well, and of course, as a  private guide in Amsterdam,  I can give you some great tips on what to do here in Amsterdam.

It’s straightforward to go on an Amsterdam day trip from London. With the arrival of the Eurostar high-speed train and countless flights between the two capitals, reaching Amsterdam in a matter of hours is possible. Flights take just over an hour, while the train takes you across in under 4 hours.

Now don’t discount the train immediately, thinking it’s slower. If you fly, you must travel to and from airports, which adds time to your trip. The Eurostar whisks you across the channel from city center to city center , which makes a huge difference!

Short on time? Or ready to book?

Find departure times and book your train tickets here.

If you’re thinking about flying, you might want to check out WayAWay to find the best prices for regular airlines and low-budget options.

What I love as a frequent flyer is their membership options , which gives you, on top of the lowest prices, extra cashback for many flights and hotels. With my code  HHFLIGHTS  you get an extra 10% off the yearly membership.

This is entirely optional. It’s an excellent tool for finding flights for everyone with or without the Plus membership.

Table of Contents

Direct eurostar trains: tips for a smooth ride.

The idea of tunneling under the English Channel by rail has a hint of magic, at least for me. The main benefit of the train is that it offers a smoother ride than a flight, you avoid getting to and from the airport, and you have less airport hassle.

In London (UK), trains leave from St Pancras station and travel via Brussels, Rotterdam, and Schiphol to arrive at their final destination Amsterdam Centraal in the Netherlands. The journey to Brussels is about 2 hours, to Rotterdam just over 3 hours, and to Amsterdam just under 4 hours.

Now this may sound like longer than flight times, but it’s usually the faster way to get to Amsterdam because it leaves from the center of London to the city center of Amsterdam.

The first train from London to Amsterdam

Are you an early bird? The first departure from London is at 06:16 am. That train arrives in Amsterdam at 11:13, giving you a solid amount of day left to explore. But it’s early. You need about 1 hour for check-in and the formalities.

Too early for you?

You can also leave two hours later at 08:16, but you won’t be in the city until 1:13 pm. The good thing is that Amsterdam Centraal Station is right in the middle of the center of Amsterdam.

The last train back from Amsterdam to London

The last Eurostar back to London is at 18:47, which is a beautiful time, giving you plenty of time in Amsterdam. You’ll also benefit from the one-hour time difference, so you still arrive at a reasonable time in London (you get there just before 10 pm.)

PS : Trains leave from platform 15 in Amsterdam (the last one from the city center side, or the first when you enter from the north entrance). It’s also sign-posted. Make sure to go to the passport control office first.

Fares on Eurostar are similar to airline pricing. Prices go up with the demand, and usually, the earlier you book, the better price you can get. You can check prices and departures here. There is no competition on the train line. It’s Eurostar only from London. Thalys trains run between Paris and Amsterdam.

TIP:  I prefer to travel first class (Premier) to have more space to stretch my legs and watch the European countryside blur by. Regular (2nd) classes can feel more cramped.

PS: they offer two first-class price levels. These are the same in seat comfort, but the more expensive option offers extra amenities on top of a better seat. It’s up to your preference whether that is worth it to you. For me, the seat is most important.

For a detailed rundown on traveling on the Eurostar train, check out my post:  A Comprehensive Guide London To Amsterdam By Train 2023 🇬🇧

Flight Options: Making the Most of Your Day Trip to Amsterdam

There are three advances to flying compared to traveling by train.

• There are so many flights every day: you can depart every hour.
• It’s often cheaper to fly than to take the train.
• Many airports in the London area offer flights to Amsterdam. 

Choosing a Low Budget or Traditional Airline

KLM, British Airways, and EasyJet offer most flights to Amsterdam from London.

If you want to fly to London Heathrow , you must choose a traditional airline. Both KLM and British Airways offer many flights daily from here.

EasyJet flies from airports like Luton, Southend (on and off), but mainly from London Gatwick. It depends on where you are in London which one works best for you.

Another fantastic airport to use if you are in central London is London City Airport . It’s small, in the city center, and offers many direct flights to Amsterdam on smaller aircraft. Both KLM and BA offer flights here.

Which London Airport to Choose?

When I travel to London for a day, I pick the airport where I need to be. I choose London City if I need to be in Central London or the Excel Convention Centre.

Gatwick is great for anything in Southern London or Central London, and Heathrow is great for anything in West London.

There is a tube connecting Heathrow with Central London, but it takes a long time, something to consider when you travel for just a day.

London Stansted doesn’t offer direct flights to Amsterdam, you could fly to Eindhoven, but with 90-120 minutes of travel time between Eindhoven Airport and Central Amsterdam, it’s not ideal for a day trip.

But airports. The queues, the security checks, and the frantic rush to far-away gates are often not a fun experience, but simultaneously, it makes a day trip from London possible and easily doable. It might be a reason to choose the train instead.

From Schiphol Amsterdam Airport it only takes less than half an hour to get to Amsterdam by train, so that part is easy and quick. 

What To Do In Amsterdam On A Day Trip from London?

There is so much to do in Amsterdam , and when you’re coming to the city for just a few hours, it can be overwhelming to choose the right things.

Why settle for just a stroll and a bite to eat when there are so many beautiful things to explore ?

If you arrive by train, you’ll have a good 6 hours in the city , if you fly in you can extend this maybe to 8 hours . Either way, it’s enough for a meaningful visit to the city.

I created four example itineraries that take 4-6 hours to complete. All are either within walking distance from each other or a short ride on the tram network. You’ll find them here: four one-day trips in Amsterdam . Each can be done comfortably on a day trip to Amsterdam from London .

Read more: 4 Day Trips in Amsterdam: Where to Go!

Of course, you can adjust to your preferences, but they offer a great starting point to get the most out of your day.

PS : There is also a section in the article on how to get around , which trams, metro and buses to use, and also not unimportant which tickets to buy!

TIP:  If you find yourself in Amsterdam on a Saturday Morning , a great local experience is to visit the Noordermarkt, where there is an organic market, and have Apple Pie at the Winkel 43 café (this is what locals consider the best Apple Pie) both are in the Jordaan area, close to Central Station.

And you might spot me because I often come here to do my weekly shopping and get some pie!

Essential Tips for Hassle-Free Amsterdam Day Trips from London

Amsterdam is a joy to explore, but as with any city trip, a little preparation goes a long way . Especially if you’re here only for a few minutes. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Allow Enough Time

It’s tempting to cram too much into one day. However, for the best Amsterdam day trips from London try to strike a balance. Less is more . You will enjoy the things you do choose much more. Promised! 

Plan Well In Advance

If you have more time, Amsterdam is great to be experienced organically, but the main attractions sell out and must be booked in advance.

If you’re here for just a few hours, it’s essential to plan so you’re not surprised by the speed of time or disappointed if something is booked.

It brings calm on a trip like this to have a plan in place and your reservations done.  

Travel Light

It’s a day trip; hand luggage with essentials like a small backpack with a refillable water bottle, your passport, and perhaps an umbrella should suffice.

Amsterdam is best explored on foot or via trams. Lugging around a trolley or large bags can be cumbersome.

Everything else can be bought in Amsterdam.

You’ll also avoid baggage allowance restrictions, especially when you fly.

Punctuality Matters

Both for flights and Eurostar, you need to pass immigration and security. Ensure you account for enough time for this.

For a day trip to Amsterdam from London without checked luggage, I advise you to be at the airport or the train station at least 90 minutes in advance. To be sure, at the airport: 2 hours is better.

Even in a short day, Amsterdam leaves a genuinely lasting impression. It’s enjoyable to do something unusual, like taking a day trip and visiting another country!

London and Amsterdam are both great cities but very different indeed.

As your day ends and you return to London, you take the memories and stories with you. Hopefully, you’ve also found a few reasons to return .

Safe travels.

PS:  Do you want to spend longer in Amsterdam? Then staying overnight is not a bad idea. With so much to do, it’s easy to spend two fun days in the city and squeeze in more of its sights and attractions. Here are some hotel suggestions in Amsterdam for you.

Find A Place To Stay In Amsterdam

Find accommodation in Amsterdam for the lowest prices on your favorite platform. What's great about this map is that it shows both Hotels , as VRBO rentals (AirBNB but then cheaper).

Update your (intended) travel dates for accurate prices . TIP: Zoom out on the map (-) in the bottom right corner. This will show more options and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i travel from london to amsterdam for a day trip.

The two primary transit options for a day trip from London to Amsterdam are via the Eurostar high-speed train service or by flying. Both options offer efficient options and allow for a day trip to Amsterdam. Expect 4 hours of travel time each way.

How long does it take from London to Amsterdam?

The Eurostar journey from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes. If you fly instead, scheduled flights are 75-90 minutes. But if you add transportation to and from the airports and security, it equals out.

Is it better to book travel tickets in advance?

Yes, booking your Eurostar or flight tickets in advance can offer you better deals, ensure availability, and helps you plan your day trip more efficiently. The same is valid for activities you want to do. Some do sell out in advance. This article has the links you need to book.

Are there any advantages to traveling by Eurostar over flying?

Traveling by Eurostar offers several advantages, such as travel from city center to city center, no transfers, fewer restrictions on luggage, online connectivity, and a more scenic journey.

Are there any advantages to traveling by airplane over the Eurostar?

Traveling by airplane also offers several advantages. You have more different London departure airports for flights to Amsterdam, giving you options depending on where you are. There are many more flights than train departures every day. And flights tend to be a little cheaper.

What should I prioritize in Amsterdam if I only have a day?

Great questions. I created different itineraries for you . One for those short on time and not interested in museums, one that does include a museum highlight, another to see some smaller Amsterdam museums that are well worth your time, and one that includes an excursion outside the city and see something more of Holland, but still comfortably possible in a day trip.

What’s the best time to visit Amsterdam for a day trip?

While Amsterdam is beautiful year-round, there are a few things to remember. April is the busiest month due to the tulips, followed by August when Italy, Spain, and France take their vacations simultaneously. So if you can plan outside this time window, crowds will be easier to manage. Unless, of course, you want to come during tulips season for the tulips.

Can I bring back any souvenirs from Amsterdam?

There are plenty of souvenirs from Amsterdam, like Dutch cheese, tulip bulbs, or Delft pottery. Although the UK and Europe now have separate legislation after Brexit, many rules are still aligned, making importing foods easier. But other things like bulbs can be more tricky. Ask the seller if you’re unsure. And check the UK government website for the latest information.

Are You Taking A London To Amsterdam Day Trip?

I’d love to hear your thoughts: If so, will you take the train or fly? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation 💬.

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PS: If planning this trip feels overwhelming, know I’m here to help when you need assistance with your Netherlands vacation plans.

I offer a vacation “Tune-Up” call where I help you with ideas to improve your itinerary, or I can create a custom itinerary from scratch to make you’re trip planning much faster and less stressful.

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"Amsterdam is filled with iconic sights, but one of the city's greatest joys is simply wandering along the pretty canals, bridges and leafy streets. You never know what you'll discover, from charming bars to traditional cheese shops - and don't forget to look up at those gorgeous gabled facades."

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Wander around Amsterdam's labyrinth of canals

We’ll take you for a scenic stroll around Amsterdam’s impressive canals, lined with a jumble of medieval gabled homes, colourful houseboats and leafy squares. With almost 100-kilometres (60 miles) of canals, 1,700 flower-decked bridges, and 7,000 centuries-old buildings, prepare to be amazed by this iconic Amsterdam experience.

See the sturdy Dutch bicycles rattle day and night

Amsterdam is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, thanks to its flat streets and amazing cycling culture. We’ll show you how to get around town like the locals, pedalling along the pretty canals and around some of the city’s scenic wonders like the beautiful Vondelpark and the trendy Jordaan neighbourhood.

Enjoy a dinner in a historic Dutch House

We’ll show you around Amsterdam’s beautiful medieval buildings - but we’ll also take you inside one of these historic houses for a delicious meal of Dutch delicacies and drinks. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into the Dutch Golden Age as you’re surrounded by the city’s rich history and superb cuisine.

Admire the Royal Palace of Amsterdam

With its magnificent 17th-century architecture and regal history, the Royal Palace is one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam. Although it’s the official reception palace of the Dutch monarch, it’s often open to visitors, and you can waltz across the marble floors, admire the grand hallways, and gaze up at the dazzling chandeliers.

Nibble your way through Amsterdam's traditional foods

Amsterdam’s dining scene is one of Europe’s best, and we’ll take you on a tasting tour with a Local Specialist, to learn all about the flavours of Dutch cuisine. Savour the artisanal specialities at a cheese shop, sample the best fish in town, bite into a sweet stroopwafel, and wash it all down with a local beer or Jenever.

Our top 5 things to do in Amsterdam

Our Amsterdam holidays show you all the iconic Amsterdam attractions like the pretty canals and famous architecture, along with the hidden gems of this captivating city.

Amsterdam Museum

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of Amsterdam, you’ve got to visit the Amsterdam Museum. Housed in the old city orphanage, the museum tells the story of this 1,000-year-old city from the Middle Ages to modern times, including a medieval aerial map and masterpieces like Brietner’s The Dam.

Rembrandt House Museum

Hailed as one of the world’s greatest artists, there’s no better place to learn about Rembrandt van Rijn than the Rembrandt House Museum. As the former home where Rembrandt lived and painted for many years, the building has been restored to its 17th-century styling and the museum displays a number of Rembrandt’s masterpieces.

Stedelijk Museum

Located a short stroll from the iconic Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, you have to make a stop at the Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam’s top museum of contemporary and modern art. You’ll see incredible works from the likes of Vincent van Gogh, Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol, along with photos, sculptures and interactive displays.

Best museums in Amsterdam

You can’t visit this incredible city without making a stop at one of the famous Amsterdam museums, and we’ll show you where to marvel at the masters of art and discover the city’s fascinating history.

You’ll find these deep-fried delights all over Amsterdam, and you’re sure to fall in love with the famous kroket. It’s made with all kinds of fillings like meat, cheese, rice, pasta, mushrooms or vegetables melded with mashed potatoes and a thick béchamel sauce, which is then breaded and deep-fried to crispy perfection.

If you want to try a real Dutch breakfast, it’s got to be hagelslag. It's similar to sprinkles (but definitely not the same!), scattered over a piece of buttered bread and enjoyed by children and adults alike. Chocolate is the most common flavour and it’s sure to become your new favourite morning ritual in Amsterdam.

There are few things more Dutch than the smell of poffertjes wafting through the air and you can’t resist tucking into a cone of these small, fluffy pancakes topped with dripping butter and powdered sugar. Whether you eat them as a snack or dessert, it’s the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on your Amsterdam holiday.

Best food in Amsterdam

One of the best parts of Amsterdam is the delicious cuisine, and our Amsterdam tours will show you all the very best places to satisfy your Dutch food cravings.

What to pack for Amsterdam

Comfortable walking shoes

Whether you’re strolling around the canals or cycling through the streets, you’ll need to bring a comfortable pair of shoes for your Amsterdam trip.

Waterproof coat

Amsterdam gets around 133 rainy days a year, so it’s best to come prepared with a warm and waterproof raincoat. A small umbrella will also come in handy!

A day pack is perfect for holding your raincoat and umbrella, plus all those special souvenirs you pick up on your Amsterdam adventures.

Digital maps

With so many amazing things to do in Amsterdam, it’s a great idea to download the city map to your phone, so you can access it even when your phone is offline.

Camera & extra SD cards

Amsterdam might just be one of the most gorgeous cities you’ll ever visit, so be sure to bring a camera and extra SD cards to capture all that beauty.

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3 days in Amsterdam

Make the most of a short break in one of Europe's coolest capitals with our 3-day itinerary

Explore Amsterdam in just three days

Culturally rich and occasionally risqué, Europe’s most freewheeling city is famous for its art, canals and laidback culture. And of course its bicycles. A weekend trip to Amsterdam couldn't be easier from London, with direct trains from St Pancras International whisking you to Amsterdam Centraal in under four hours. And, with our 3-day Amsterdam itinerary, you’ll get to experience all the head-spinning variety this pocket-sized capital has to offer.

Amsterdam 3-day itinerary

How many days in Amsterdam make for the perfect trip? With our whistlestop itinerary, 3 days is just the ticket.

Amsterdam itinerary: Day 1

Fill up on pancakes, check out the art scene, hit the shops and settle in for the evening with a view or a viewing.

Ferdinand Bolstraat 11, 1072 LA

There’s no better way to start the day than a stack of fat, fluffy pancakes – and Moak delivers every time. Quality ingredients come as standard (think organic buttermilk and flour), along with a hip-hop soundtrack and easy-going vibe. Classic breakfast options come stuffed with blueberries or piled with banana, dates and honey, while the Mancake’s a hangover-banishing combo of bacon, onion, maple syrup and cheddar.

Rijksmuseum

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX

Next stop: some serious art immersion. Rembrandt’s Night Watch may be the big draw at the Rijksmuseum, but there’s much more to see at the Golden Age art trove. You could easily spend a whole day here, but you may want to limit yourself to the well-known Dutch masters on the second floor.

Van Gogh Museum

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ

If bearded men in breeches and still-life paintings of cheese don't float your boat, head to the Van Gogh Museum. It offers an in-depth look at the life and art of the tormented painter, while the building itself is an architectural masterpiece. Tickets are only available online, so make sure you book in advance.

Hit the shops

Amsterdam has more than its share of cute boutiques, so leave enough time to do some shopping. For a taste of the city’s postcard-perfect charms, explore the Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes), a grid of picturesque streets on the west of the canal belt that has something for everyone. Head to Reestraat for restaurants, Hartenstraat for Scandi-style fashions and Runstraat for cheese.

Amsterdam-Noord

Amsterdam itinerary: day 2.

See a new side to the famous red light district, explore the smaller canals, taste the city's freshest seafood and take a moment to reflect at the powerful Anne Frank House.

Red light district

While De Wallen, Amsterdam's infamous red light district, has cleaned up under a recent gentrification drive, you should still expect to see plenty of seediness.

But look beyond the tack and you’ll discover one of the prettiest parts of the city. De Oude Kerk is the focal point of the area and is Amsterdam’s oldest standing building, now hosting a range of experimental art and music. The area's artistic credentials continue at Zeedijk 60 , a clothing store championing local labels and X Bank , a 700m2 space dedicated to Dutch design.

Next up, wind your way along the canals to Jordaan. In this neighbourhood you’ll find traditional brown bars alongside trendy coffee roasters, as well as an organic market, tiny art galleries and well-fed house cats roaming the charming residential streets. The smaller canals such as the Egelantiersgracht and Bloemgracht are arguably even more picturesque than their bigger, concentric cousins (Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht), so keep your camera handy.

Anne Frank House

Westermarkt 20, 1016 DK

One of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions, the Anne Frank House should be high on the list of any first-time visitor. Besides the secret annexe where Anne and her family went into hiding during the Nazi occupation, there's an exhibition dedicated to the persecution of the Jews during the second world war. Be sure to book tickets online, as you can no longer buy them at the door.

Seafood Bar

Van Baerlestraat 5, 1071 AL

Tables are in high demand at this airy, white-tiled seafood joint, whose sustainably sourced seafood is among the best in town. Book ahead if you can or be prepared to wait. It’s less painful than it sounds, thanks to an online queuing system. Kick off with half-a-dozen fine de claire oysters, then take your pick of the mains, which run from garlicky grilled prawns to piled-high seafood platters.

Amsterdam itinerary: Day 3

Get a modern art fix, stock up on cut-price souvenirs, hit quirky De Pijp and go for sky-high cocktails with Michelin-starred snacks.

Stedelijk Museum

Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ

On your last day in Amsterdam, revisit Museumplein for a final culture fix. The Stedelijk Museum is one of Europe’s best modern art galleries, with an amazing permanent collection hidden in its bathtub-shaped extension. Look out for pieces by Marlene Dumas, Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol, among other international artists. If you buy a ticket online you can skip the queue, and entry is free for under 18s.

Albert Cuyp market

Albert Cuypstraat, 1073 BD

With around 260 stalls, the bustling Albert Cuyp market is the city’s largest of its kind. From Monday to Saturday, you can buy anything from clothes and electronic items to flowers, fish and fruit. Expect plenty of shouting and patter from cheeky market vendors as you stock up on souvenirs like stroopwafels (caramel waffles) and cheese, at more sensible prices than tourist shops.

Peckish? Stick around in the bohemian De Pijp neighbourhood, where you’ll find lots of trendy eateries and cafés, within and around the market. Try Little Collins for a laidback but beautifully presented brunch, or The Butcher if you fancy a hearty burger with an astonishing array of toppings. Once you've refuelled, soak up some peace and quiet with a stroll through Sarphatipark. Named after public health hero Samuel Sarphati, it’s a perfectly formed green space and a soothing pocket of serenity.

Twenty Third Bar

Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH

In a city that’s low on skyscrapers, this sleek, high-rise hotel bar is an unexpected find. Cocktails are boldly conceptual, but invariably taste delicious – like the playful Cloudy Sky, topped with a delicate puff of candy floss. The restaurant here holds two Michelin stars, so the bar snacks are sublime. Think incredible oysters and delicately delicious open macaroons with goose liver and mango.

Best insider tips for Amsterdam

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Yes. The main sights in Amsterdam are all within walking distance of each other and almost everywhere you go, you'll be following or crossing one of the city's pretty canals. Just be sure to watch out for cyclists and trams, and pack an umbrella and a waterproof, so you're ready for anything the weather can throw at you.

What is the best month to go to Amsterdam?

Amsterdam can be visited at any time of year – you'll always find something fun to do or interesting to see. Of course a boat trip along the canal will always be better on a warm, sunny day, but there are lots of museums and galleries to dive into if you visit when it's wet or chilly. And cold weather's always a good excuse for a long, lingering lunch or cake stop. School holidays – particularly in July and August – tend to be more expensive and everywhere is busier. The shoulder season of June or September is worth considering, if you're travelling without kids.

How many days do you need in Amsterdam?

There are enough museums, shops, restaurants and bars to keep you amused for months, but with our 3-day itinerary, you can fit all of the must-sees into a long weekend.

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Day Trip To Amsterdam From London: Exploring Dutch Culture And Canals

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Join us on a day trip to Amsterdam from London, where you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the rich Dutch culture and marvel at the iconic canals that wind through this vibrant city. From picturesque tulip-filled streets to world-class art museums, Amsterdam offers a blend of historical charm and modern flair that is sure to captivate your senses. So hop on board, and get ready to discover the beauty and spirit of Amsterdam in just one day!

Table of Contents

Departure from London

Good morning! Today, you embark on an exciting day trip from London to Amsterdam, ready to immerse yourself in the rich Dutch culture and explore the charming canals of this vibrant city. After a hearty breakfast, make your way to the train station, where you will catch a train to Amsterdam. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey as you leave the hustle and bustle of London behind.

Arrival in Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam! As you arrive at the central train station, you can immediately sense the unique atmosphere that defines this city. Take a moment to absorb the energy and embrace the friendly ambiance. Now, it’s time to begin your adventure and dive into Dutch culture headfirst.

Exploring Dutch Culture

Visit the anne frank house.

A visit to Amsterdam would not be complete without paying homage to one of the world’s most influential figures – Anne Frank. Make your way to the Anne Frank House, a significant historical landmark where Anne and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. As you walk through the secret annex, guided by Anne’s powerful words in her diary, you gain insight into the harsh realities faced by countless individuals during that dark period of history.

Discover the Van Gogh Museum

Venture into the world of art and immerse yourself in the breathtaking masterpieces of Vincent Van Gogh. The Van Gogh Museum houses an extensive collection of the renowned artist’s works, offering a unique opportunity to admire his vivid brushstrokes and gain a deeper understanding of his troubled yet brilliant mind. Allow yourself to be captivated by his iconic paintings, including “Sunflowers” and “Starry Night.”

Explore the Rijksmuseum

Continue your cultural journey at the Rijksmuseum, a treasure trove of Dutch art and history. Marvel at the vast collection that spans centuries, featuring works from world-renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. From the famous “Night Watch” to the delicate “Girl With a Pearl Earring,” the museum’s exhibits provide a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich artistic heritage.

Sample Dutch cuisine at a local restaurant

Feeling hungry? It’s time to delve into the flavors of Dutch cuisine at a local restaurant. Indulge your taste buds with traditional dishes such as Stroopwafels, Bitterballen, and Haring. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Dutch beer or a glass of genever, a traditional Dutch spirit. Savor the unique blend of flavors and allow yourself to fully appreciate the culinary delights that Amsterdam has to offer.

Boat Tour on the Canals

Experience amsterdam’s iconic canals.

Now that you’ve satisfied your appetite, it’s time to embark on a picturesque boat tour along Amsterdam’s iconic canals. Hop aboard a traditional canal boat and let the gentle waves carry you along the waterways that weave through the heart of the city. Admire the stunning architecture of the canal houses, with their charming facades and picturesque gables. Marvel at the narrow bridges that connect the different neighborhoods, creating a harmonious and enchanting atmosphere.

Learn about the city’s history and architecture

As you cruise along the canals, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating stories about Amsterdam’s history and architectural wonders. Discover the origins of the canal system, which was constructed during the Dutch Golden Age, and learn how it has shaped the city’s unique character. Listen attentively as the guide shares anecdotes about famous landmarks, such as the Westerkerk and the iconic Anne Frank House.

Afternoon Activities

Shop at the nine streets.

After a leisurely canal tour, wander through Amsterdam’s Nine Streets, a picturesque area known for its charming boutiques and eclectic shops. Lose yourself amidst the cobblestone streets lined with quaint storefronts, offering an array of fashion, jewelry, and unique home decor items. Whether you’re searching for stylish clothing, vintage treasures, or handmade souvenirs, the Nine Streets promise a delightful shopping experience.

Visit the Flower Market

Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of color and fragrance at the famous Amsterdam Flower Market. Stroll along the vibrant stalls, where a plethora of tulips, daffodils, and other blooms create a mesmerizing spectacle. Take your time to browse through the diverse selection of flowers and perhaps even bring home a bouquet as a cherished memento of your time in Amsterdam.

Stroll through Vondelpark

Escape the bustling city streets for a serene oasis in the heart of Amsterdam – Vondelpark. With its lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and winding paths, this sprawling park offers the perfect respite for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Join the locals as they relax on the grass, cycle along the winding trails, or simply soak up the sun in this idyllic urban sanctuary.

Try Dutch beers at a local pub

As the day begins to wind down, Amsterdam’s vibrant nightlife beckons. Head to a local pub and indulge in the vast array of Dutch beers on offer. From the crisp and refreshing pilsners to the rich and flavorful Trappist ales, there is something for every beer enthusiast. Engage in lively conversations with locals and fellow travelers, as you toast to a memorable day in one of Europe’s most beloved destinations.

Enjoy a traditional Dutch dinner

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without savoring the flavors of traditional Dutch cuisine. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local restaurant and sample delicacies such as Rijsttafel, a meal consisting of various Indonesian dishes, or Hutspot, a comforting dish of mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions. Pair your meal with a glass of Dutch gin or Dutch-style gin-based cocktails, and let the warmth of Dutch hospitality envelop you.

Return to London

Departure from amsterdam.

After an unforgettable day exploring the vibrant Dutch culture and canals of Amsterdam, it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting city. Head back to the central train station and board your return train to London. Reflect on the memories you’ve made, the people you’ve met, and the beauty you’ve witnessed.

Arrival in London

As you step off the train in London, take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the two remarkable cities you’ve experienced in a single day. Amsterdam’s charm and cultural wealth have left an indelible mark on your heart, and now you carry a piece of Dutch beauty and hospitality with you as you navigate the bustling streets of London once again.

Remember, a day trip to Amsterdam is just a taste of what this incredible city has to offer. Consider planning a longer visit in the future, so you can dive even deeper into the stunning canals, rich history, and vibrant culture that await you in the picturesque capital of the Netherlands.

Amsterdam Day Trip from London

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Are you planning a trip to London and considering a day trip to Amsterdam? Look no further! In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable day trip to the beautiful city of Amsterdam from London.

Getting to Amsterdam

There are several options available for traveling from London to Amsterdam:

One of the quickest ways to reach Amsterdam from London is by taking a flight. Multiple airlines operate direct flights between the two cities, which usually take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is advisable to book your flight in advance to get the best deals.

If you prefer a scenic journey, traveling by train is a great option. Eurostar offers a direct train service from London St Pancras International to Amsterdam Centraal Station. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and allows you to enjoy the beautiful countryside along the way.

If you are on a budget, taking a coach is a more affordable option. Various coach companies offer services between London and Amsterdam. The journey duration can vary, but it typically takes around 9-10 hours. However, keep in mind that this option is the longest and may not be as comfortable as other modes of transport.

Exploring Amsterdam

Once you arrive in Amsterdam, it’s time to explore the city and make the most of your day trip. Here are some must-visit attractions and activities:

1. Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, and taking a boat tour is a fantastic way to experience them. You can hop on a canal cruise and admire the stunning architecture while learning about the city’s history from a knowledgeable guide.

2. Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is a moving and poignant experience. Explore the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II and learn about their harrowing story. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

3. Van Gogh Museum

If you appreciate art, the Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit. Discover the impressive collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, including his famous Sunflowers and The Starry Night. The museum offers an immersive experience, providing insight into the artist’s life and influences.

4. Dam Square

Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam and a vibrant hub of activity. Take a stroll, visit the Royal Palace, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s also surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for a quick bite or some souvenir shopping.

5. Cycling in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famously bicycle-friendly, and renting a bike is a popular way to explore the city. Join the locals and pedal your way around, discovering hidden gems and experiencing Amsterdam’s unique charm.

Important Tips

Here are some tips to make your day trip to Amsterdam from London even more enjoyable:

• Plan your itinerary in advance and prioritize the attractions you want to visit.
• Check the opening hours of museums and tourist sites to avoid disappointment.
• Carry Euros with you, as some places may not accept credit cards.
• Make sure to have your passport or ID with you for travel purposes.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking or cycling.
• Try local Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels or bitterballen during your visit.

With these tips in mind, you are ready to embark on an amazing day trip from London to Amsterdam!

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How to Get From London to Amsterdam (4 Easy Ways)

By: Author Jess Esa

Posted on Last updated: 17th January 2024

There are several ways to travel from London to the Dutch capital and theoretically, you can be enjoying your Amsterdam holiday in less than two hours. One of the most convenient routes has opened up thanks to the London to Amsterdam Eurostar line which has opened a direct route taking three and a half hours.

Find out the best ways to travel between the two cities plus a few tips on where to stay in Amsterdam, where to go next, and some frequently asked questions.

How to Get From London to Amsterdam on the Eurostar

Getting from London to Amsterdam on the train couldn’t be easier. We very recently took the Eurostar from London to Amsterdam and were so impressed by the ease of the journey, and especially impressed with the hygiene and social distancing precautions they took.

We’d always taken the bus in the past since we generally travel on a budget and have the benefit of time but this time we felt it would be safer to travel by train, due to it meaning fewer hours in close quarters with other people.

It takes three hours and forty minutes on the direct train from London to Amsterdam but sometimes you have to change in Brussells (we noticed more of this when we booked the return train from Amsterdam to London). This will usually add an extra 30-60 mins to the trip.

We arrived at the station at St Pancras International in London and went through to departures; everything is well signposted so there shouldn’t be an issue. There’s also plenty of food and drink options to stock up before you get on the train. In normal times there’s also a dining car on the train. Don’t forget to have your passport handy as you’ll need to show it a couple of times. It will be glanced over by border control but that’s it. You’ll need also need to scan your ticket a couple of times so have it ready on your phone or printed out.

Once you’re in the waiting hall, you just watch the board like at an airport and wait for your gate. We were boarded in groups and off we went. There was plenty of room for our two big suitcases. At the time of writing, masks are mandatory on board.

The journey was quick and smooth; you’re only in the tunnel for around twenty minutes and I barely noticed we were in there (I say this for the people with claustrophobia like myself who might be worried). 

We decided to get off at Rotterdam because The Hague, which is nearby, was our destination. We didn’t realise this was an option and had booked tickets to Amsterdam. So bear in mind that both Amsterdam and Rotterdam are destination choices.

You can book tickets on the Eurostar website or through Omio. You can then put the booking code on your Eurostar app so it’s no different to booking through their app but you have more options to buy connecting trains all in one go.

Use this Omio referral code (jessie8m4s1c) at checkout for a €10 discount. You can also use Omio if you decide to use the bus or even fly.

Note : If you’re planning on travelling by train a lot then I would consider the Global Pass from Eurail . It will cover your Eurostar travel as well as your trains in The Netherlands and onwards.

Tip : The Eurail train pass offers a special deal for The Netherlands trains and combines Belgium and Luxembourg for the same price as a one country pass called the Benelux Pass . So if you’re travelling by train within the country this could be a great deal.

Read More : 15 Best Things to do in Amsterdam for the Cultural Traveller

How to Get From London to Amsterdam by Bus

This is a longer trip so when we personally did it last year we decided to break it up by staying in Brussels for a week. Many of the trips will have you change buses in Brussells or Paris so incorporating this change as part of your trip can be a welcome break.

There are direct buses from London to Amsterdam and this trip will take you ten hours so allow a day for travel or simply get one of the overnight buses to arrive at your destination in the morning and not waste any time. 

Many of the buses leave around eleven and arrive around wight in the morning which is very civilised compared to some of our own overnight bus experiences that have had us arrive at five in the morning in the middle of nowhere with no coffee for a few hours.

We use Omio to compare buses and times. The bus station in Amsterdam is right by the main train station so very central and there are convenience stores and coffee shops nearby to recover at.

The prices for the buses are much cheaper (unless you get a great bargain on the Eurostar) and will usually be around €50 upwards. When you get on the bus, the bus itself will be loaded o to the train to go through the channel tunnel.

It takes around forty minutes and being in a metal box within a metal box isn’t the most pleasant feeling in terms of claustrophobia and it can get very warm during the summer months.

You are allowed to get off to go use the toilet, however. Once you’re out, you’ll be driving on the road again; you will have to have your passport checked as you cross into every country and this can add time; sometimes they’ll want to check your luggage, too.

Read More : Historical & Literary Day Trips from London

Flying from London to Amsterdam

Taking a plane from London to Amsterdam can be a very easy option if you want something typically cheaper than the Eurostar, and more convenient than the bus. The prices for flights vary, ranging from around €50 – €120 depending on when you book, and will take one hour and twenty minutes to get to Amsterdam.

I generally avoid short flights because I dislike flying at the best of times. So, save all that anxiety for longer trips but, as I’ve changed in Amsterdam many times, I can say it’s a very quick trip between London and Amsterdam and Amsterdam Airport is very clean and nice.

Flights to Amsterdam leave from all of London’s airports, including London City Airport so you have plenty of choices. It’s easy to get to most of London’s airports on the train or Underground but I’d also recommend the National Express coach if you’re going up to London Stanstead. We usually book our flights on Skyscanner, wherever we go.

How to Drive from London to Amsterdam

Another great option — particularly if you’re wanting to keep as socially distanced as much as possible, or want the freedom of having your own vehicle on the other side — is to drive to Amsterdam. The easiest way is by using the Channel Tunnel.

Taking your car through the Channel Tunnel:

The easiest option to get your car from London to Amsterdam is to use Eurotunnel Le Shuttle . You can load up your car with what you need and, similar to the bus above, you’ll be loaded on to the shuttle. The cars cost anywhere from £31 up each way and you just sit in your car until you emerge in France. Your journey will take around seven hours total, not including breaks.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for somewhere comfortable and convenient to stay after your journey to Amsterdam, here are a few of our recommended accommodation options.

Ambassade Hotel : Our favourite luxury and historic hotel in the heart of Amsterdam , boasting exciting literary connections with its own library bar full of books that have been signed by the authors who’ve stayed there. The hotel spans ten original canal houses that were built in the seventeenth century.

Hotel Dwars : A charming city centre hotel that provides all the comfort and vibes of home. Everything is designed to be relaxing from the warm decor and vintage furniture to the facilities like a coffee machine in the bedroom and rain shower in the bathroom.

Hostel Van Gogh : Conveniently located near the Van Gogh Museum and other major attractions and with beautifully decorated and bright dorms and rooms. This is a great option for travellers staying in Amsterdam on a budget.

Where to Travel in The Netherlands after Amsterdam

The Netherlands has a lot to offer outside of Amsterdam and, if you’re looking for a few places to consider as easy day trips or as a next destination, then we highly recommend the below places from personal experience. Depending on when you’re arriving, make sure to check what flowers are in bloom as there are plenty of flowery destinations to choose from near Amsterdam, most famously Keukenhof for its tulip fields.

The old capital of The Netherlands; The Hague has a lot to offer, not least a long expanse of beaches to relax on. The city centre has everything you could possibly want, including streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and wine bars. The museum options are endless with highlights being The Humanity House and The MC Escher Museum.

A visit to the Peace Palace is a must, with it being home to the U.N.’s International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, showcasing The Hague’s political heart and soul. Here are some great places to stay in The Hague .

Famous for the blue and white Delft Pottery. A visit to the Delf Factory is an absolute must (although try and control yourself in the gift shop). With canals to wander (Delf is actually a canal-ringed city) and a town square that’s postcard-worthy, you won’t forget your trip to Delft in a hurry.

A gorgeous university town that is known for its historical architecture, including the oldest building in The Netherlands, built in 1575.

There are some fascinating museums in Leiden, including the world’s first Ethnology Museum, a PIlgrim’s Museum which demonstrates the life of the pilgrims before they left for America, and The National Museum of Antiquities full of Greek, Roman, and Ancient Egyptian pieces.

The cheese is probably what will spring to mind when you hear of this town, and it’s a fantastic reason to visit since the famous cheese market is still held in the medieval town square. The square is striking with the central Gothic town hall building with its red and white shutters. Also on the square is the 17th-century Goudse Waag, once a cheese-weighing station and now home to the Gouda Cheese Museum.

Travelling from London to Amsterdam – Frequently Asked Questions

What currency do they use in the netherlands.

They use the euro (€). Make sure to check the current exchange rate before you go. 

We use the UK Tide Bank when we’re abroad, due to the fact that they don’t charge non-Sterling transaction fees similar to banks like Revolut. It works fine in the cashpoints and for contactless payments and updates you on your phone for everything spent. It also just keeps our holiday money separate from our main account which is ideal if you get your wallet stolen and we’ve used it right around Europe and the US with no trouble.

If you’re new to Tide you can get a £50 bonus if you sign up with this code (ESAXBLKCC).

Why is The Netherlands sometimes called Holland?

This is akin to referring to the United Kingdom as England. Holland is only one district of The Netherlands. It is correct to say that you’re traveling to Holland if you are visiting Amsterdam, due to the fact that Holland (which means woodland) refers to the northern region of the country.

The other regions of The Netherlands generally dislike being referred to as Holland (because they’re not Holland), but since the Holland region was a central part of the country’s economic history, and therefore more widely known on the global stage, many people refer to the country as Holland. The bottom line, however, is that it’s wrong. The country is called The Netherlands and Holland is one of several districts.

Is The Netherlands in the EU?

Yes, it is. It was a founding member and was one of the first countries to adopt the euro back in 1991.

What language do they speak in The Netherlands?

They speak Dutch. However, perfect English is widely spoken across the whole country so you won’t have any problems from a travel perspective. Signs are also bilingual and sometimes only in English. It really is remarkable how good the English is in The Netherlands.

What should I pack for the Netherlands?

The weather is actually incredibly similar to the UK. It rains a lot in The Netherlands so pack a raincoat or umbrella and, apart from that, just pack for the season. Certain painkillers aren’t sold over the counter (for example, ibuprofen with codeine) so maybe stock up on certain things if you think you might need it.

What’s the time difference between the UK and The Netherlands?

The Netherlands is one hour ahead of the UK. BST +1

What side of the road do they drive on in The Netherlands?

Like most of Europe, the Dutch drive on the right-hand side of the road. The driving is generally relaxed compared to many other countries. The cities in The Netherlands are very much geared towards cyclists; with cycle motorways and established rules for cyclists, it’s definitely worth renting a bike if you don’t fancy driving.

Holidays in Amsterdam

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• There are loads of types of holidays in Amsterdam and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travellers: Top holiday £281; Family holiday £266; Romantic holiday £297; Luxury holiday £326; Budget holiday £191.

Why should you book a holiday package to Amsterdam?

A holiday package is the best way to enjoy your holiday in Amsterdam. It guarantees good accommodation and it saves money which you can then splash out on car hire or various family activities.

When should you book a holiday package to Amsterdam?

Amsterdam generally has favorable weather all year round, with no extremes. You can visit during the autumn, an ideal period for sightseeing, and in January if you prefer shopping. However, the best time to be in Amsterdam is from mid-June to late September.

Where should you stay in Amsterdam during your holidays?

For any holiday type in amsterdam:.

One of the city's finest hotels, the De L'Europe Amsterdam is located next to a Dutch Masters golf course and has a wide view of the Amstel River. It has an airport transfer service with Amsterdam Airport Schipol just a 10 mile drive away on the A10 route.

If you want value for money, then the 3-star Hotel Luxer is a viable option. The rooms are spacious, accommodating up to 4 people, and children under 7 years can stay with their parents free of charge. The hotel can easily be reached via the A10 from Amsterdam Airport.

For family holidays in Amsterdam:

One of the finest family hotels in Amsterdam is the ClinkNOORD. It has bunk beds which increase the capacity of the spacious single rooms. The shortest route to the hotel from Amsterdam Airport is via the A4, at 15.6 miles.

Another family-friendly hotel is the Flying Pig Uptown. With double-deck beds in a dorm setting plus reasonable accommodation rates, it's ideal for large families or groups of 4 to 14 guests. It's a 15 minute drive from Amsterdam Airport on route S106.

For romantic holidays in Amsterdam:

Swissôtel Amsterdam is a perfect fit for a romantic holiday. It has a restaurant that serves fine food plus an exquisite wine selection. The hotel is a 15.9 mile drive from the airport on route s114.

The Hotel V Fizeaustraat has a romantic ambiance that is simply perfect for holidaying couples. In the evenings, a chic restaurant with a retro vibe serves fine food as you sit by a terrace with sunset views. The concierge can organize an airport pickup that takes just 18 minutes on route A9.

For luxury holidays in Amsterdam:

The Hotel Seven one Seven is a luxurious waterfront establishment offering spacious and superbly furnished rooms. There are exercise and fitness facilities to help keep guests in trim and the bar offers a wide range of choice. Airport pickups are quick, with the hotel being only 8.5 miles away on route S106.

Another hotel with a reputation for luxury is the Hilton Amsterdam. There is a remarkable view of the canal from the exquisite suites, especially those with balconies. Upgraded rooms have lounges where you can sit back and sip whisky or the complimentary champagne. An airport pickup is available and only a 10 min (7.2 mile) drive on route A4.

For budget holidays in Amsterdam:

If you are looking to explore the urban night scene in the city, then the easyHotel Amsterdam is a viable option. It's located near a tram stop with a route that takes in most of the important nightclubs and is only 8.4 miles from the airport.

The Hotel Plantage is located in a 17th-century building in close proximity to the Rijksmuseum and the Natura Artis Magistra zoo. The airport is only 12.3 miles away on the A10 route.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Amsterdam holiday information, other popular package holiday destinations.

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40 Best Stops Between London and Amsterdam

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How long is the drive from London to Amsterdam?

The direct drive from London to Amsterdam is 334 mi (538 km) , and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 36 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from London to Amsterdam, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Brussels , Bruges , Antwerp , Rotterdam , Ghent , Lille , Ieper (Ypres) , Canterbury , Utrecht , and Hastings , as well as top places to visit like Ramsgate Tunnels and P&O Ferries, or the ever-popular Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway.

Top cities between London and Amsterdam

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along London to Amsterdam drive

Romney hythe & dymchurch railway.

Ramsgate Tunnels

P&o ferries, la coupole centre d'histoire, plopsaland de panne, in flanders fields museum.

The Kusttram

Vieux-lille, grand place.

Belfry of Bruges

Gravensteen.

Ghent City Hall

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Pairi Daiza

Manneken pis, royal gallery of saint hubert, cathedral of our lady.

MAS - Museum aan de Stroom

Hampton by hilton antwerp central station, holiday inn express rotterdam - central station, an ihg hotel, erasmusbrug.

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Market Hall

Historic leuven town hall, stromma utrecht | canal tours utrecht - pedal boats, top searches in amsterdam, other popular road trips from london, explore nearby places.

• Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
• Badhoevedorp
• Broek in Waterland
• Koog aan de Zaan
• Zuiderwoude
• Spaarnwoude
• Monnickendam
• Wijdewormer

All related maps of Amsterdam

• Map of Amsterdam
• Map of Diemen
• Map of Landsmeer
• Map of Sloten
• Map of Oostzaan
• Map of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
• Map of Amstelveen
• Map of Badhoevedorp
• Map of Watergang
• Map of Zaandam
• Map of Den Ilp
• Map of Broek in Waterland
• Map of Zwanenburg
• Map of Zaanstad
• Map of Schiphol
• Map of Koog aan de Zaan
• Map of Zuiderwoude
• Map of Abcoude
• Map of Weesp
• Map of Muiden
• Map of Zaandijk
• Map of Westzaan
• Map of Uitdam
• Map of Spaarnwoude
• Map of Monnickendam
• Map of Nigtevecht
• Map of Wijdewormer
• Map of Vijfhuizen
• Map of Assendelft
• Map of Spaarndam
• Map of Wormerveer

Amsterdam throughout the year

• Amsterdam in January
• Amsterdam in February
• Amsterdam in March
• Amsterdam in April
• Amsterdam in May
• Amsterdam in June
• Amsterdam in July
• Amsterdam in August
• Amsterdam in September
• Amsterdam in October
• Amsterdam in November
• Amsterdam in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Amsterdam?

Get inspired for your trip to Amsterdam with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 2-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 4-Day Amsterdam Itinerary
• 5-Day Amsterdam Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from london to amsterdam.

Yes! You can drive from London to Amsterdam.

How far is Amsterdam from London by car?

The drive from London to Amsterdam is 334 miles (538 km).

How long does it take to drive from London to Amsterdam?

Driving from London to Amsterdam should take you 5 hrs 36 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from London to Amsterdam?

Gas from London to Amsterdam would cost around $29 to $68 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from London to Amsterdam?

You could check out Ramsgate Tunnels and P&O Ferries, or the always popular Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway!

What are the best cities to visit between London and Amsterdam?

People love visiting Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, among others.

What's the weather like in London?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in London in January
• Weather in London in February
• Weather in London in March
• Weather in London in April
• Weather in London in May
• Weather in London in June
• Weather in London in July
• Weather in London in August
• Weather in London in September
• Weather in London in October
• Weather in London in November
• Weather in London in December

What are some other road trips from London?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for London.

• London to Paris drive
• London to Amsterdam drive
• London to Dublin drive
• London to Barcelona drive
• London to Edinburgh drive
• London to Rome drive
• London to Brussels drive
• London to Berlin drive
• London to York drive
• London to Birmingham drive
• London to Bath drive
• London to Bruges drive
• London to Prague drive
• London to Madrid drive
• London to Liverpool drive
• London to Blackpool drive
• London to Milan drive
• London to Portsmouth drive
• London to Florence drive
• London to Cardiff drive
• London to Vienna drive
• London to Budapest drive
• London to Venice drive
• London to Lisbon drive
• London to Manchester drive
• London to Copenhagen drive
• London to Munich drive
• London to Bournemouth drive
• London to Glasgow drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
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35 Easy Day Trips from London + 24 to Avoid

If you’re visiting Europe, it makes sense to make the most of your time in England with a day trip from London.

I get a lot of emails asking which day trips from London are feasible, and which ones aren’t. Here I’ve compiled the most common destinations that travelers ask about and analyze whether they’re fit for a day trip or need more time.

Let’s go over the best day trips from London that won’t leave you totally depleted, and explore the day trips from London that just aren’t realistic.

Disclosure: I only recommend products & services I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read my full privacy policy here .

Day Trips from London that are Absolutely Feasible ✅

Please note that these travel times are approximate and can vary based on specific starting points in London, traffic, specific train schedules, and other factors. Always check current travel times before planning a trip using Google Maps or my favorite app: Citymapper .

This is not an exhaustive list – that would take up the whole of the internet 😉

1. Oxford ✅

• Drive: 1.5 hours
• Train: 1 hour 

Famous for its prestigious university, Oxford offers beautiful architecture, museums, and the Bodleian Library.

Oxford is one of the best day trips from London by train. It’s like stepping into the Harry Potter films, and it’s such a short train ride to be transported a world away.

2. Cambridge ✅

• Train: 50 minutes

Another charming, ancient university town with punting on the River Cam and the stunning King’s College Chapel.

Cambridge is truly magical and makes for one of the easiest day trips from London by train.

3. Brighton ✅

• Drive: 2 hours
• Train: 1 hour  

A vibrant seaside town with a pier, the Royal Pavilion, and quirky shopping lanes.

If you want a day trip from London by train that takes you to the beach, Brighton is the way to go!

• Drive: 4 hours
• Train: 2.5 hours 

A historic city with a rich Viking and Roman heritage. While it’s possible to visit in a day, you may may feel rushed as there’s lots to see here!

5. Windsor ✅

• Drive: 1 hour
• Train: 50 minutes  

Visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. I always encourage London travelers to fit this in if they have time, as it’s much more magical than Buckingham Palace.

6. Canterbury ✅

Home to the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral and a charming medieval town center. This day trip from London by train will take you worlds away in just 1 hour.

• Drive: 2.5 hours
• Train: 1.5 hours  

Known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture, Bath is a picturesque town in the Cotswolds. This is one of the best day trips from London by train because once you arrive in Bath, it’s all walkable straight from the train station.

8. Stonehenge ✅

• Train (to Salisbury, then bus): 1.5 hours 

The iconic prehistoric monument is a super popular day trip from London. Many tour companies offer excellent Stonehenge tours in conjunction with other nearby attractions like Windsor and Bath for a really affordable price.

Personally, I don’t think Stonehenge on its own is worth the trip, but if you book with a company that also takes you to other iconic locations on the way, it’s totally worth it.

9. Stratford-upon-Avon ✅

• Train: 2 hours 

The birthplace of William Shakespeare! So much charming history, and a great day trip for students and history lovers.

10. Cotswolds ✅

• Train (to various towns): 1.5-2.5 hours 

Picturesque villages and rolling hills. Bath is the most visited place in the Cotswolds, but there’s so much more to explore here, especially if you drive or rent a car there .

11. Bristol ✅

A vibrant city with a rich maritime history. Bristol is a great day trip from London if you want a larger city (not a small village) with more things to do.

12. Winchester ✅

The ancient capital of England with a stunning cathedral. This place is charming as heck.

13. Blenheim Palace ✅

• Train (to Oxford, then bus): 1.5 hours 

A monumental country house and UNESCO World Heritage site. Blenheim Palace is truly magical, and well worth the trip from London.

14. Bletchley Park ✅

• Train: 40 minutes 

The historic site where British codebreakers decrypted German codes during WWII. History and science nerds – this one is your best bet. So much world history happened here!

15. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour ✅

• Train: 20 minutes to Watford Junction, then a shuttle bus, though most tour companies include transport from Central London.  

Dive into the magical world with The Making of Harry Potter tour, a must for fans of the series.

This is the most popular day trip from London, and tickets often sell out months ahead. Read all my tips to scoring tickets here.

16. Hampton Court Palace ✅

• Train: 35 minutes  

A historic palace once home to Henry VIII, showcasing Tudor and Baroque architecture. Fans of SIX the Musical and history nerds, you have to go!

• Train: 1.5 hours 

A medieval town with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a rich smuggling history. A super charming, quaint little village!

18. Leeds Castle ✅

• Train: 1 hour to Maidstone, then a local bus 

A picturesque castle set on two islands in a tranquil lake.

19. Hever Castle ✅

• Train: 40 minutes to Hever, then a short walk 

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, set within beautiful gardens.

20. Salisbury ✅

A historic city close to Stonehenge, home to the impressive Salisbury Cathedral.

Known for its magnificent cathedral and the historic home of Oliver Cromwell.

22. St Albans ✅

• Train: 20 minutes 

A historic market town boasting Roman ruins and a stunning cathedral.

23. Rochester ✅

A town steeped in history with its Norman castle, cathedral, and Charles Dickens connections.

24. Hatfield House ✅

• Train: 20 minutes

 This is a lesser-known day trip from London to a really incredible spot. Hatfield House is a Jacobean house with sprawling gardens, once the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I.

25. Sissinghurst Castle Garden ✅

• Train: 1 hour to Staplehurst, then a local bus 

A historic estate renowned for its beautifully designed gardens by Vita Sackville-West.

26. Cardiff, Wales ✅

• Drive: 3 hours

Wales is the closest country to England , so if your goal is to just get to another country cheaply and quickly, go to Cardiff!

The capital of Wales, Cardiff boasts a blend of historic and modern attractions. The Cardiff Castle, located in the city center, showcases 2,000 years of history, while the Cardiff Bay offers a modern waterfront with dining and entertainment options.

27. Dover ✅

• Train: 1.5 hours

Famous for its iconic White Cliffs, Dover also offers the impressive Dover Castle. The port town is a gateway to the continent, with ferries frequently departing for France.

On a clear day, you can actually see France from the cliffs!

28. Birmingham ✅

As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham offers a mix of cool experiences. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, and the historic Jewellery Quarter are among its top attractions.

29. Lille, France ✅

Hop on the Eurostar and be in another country in 1 hour and 22 minutes ! Lille, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a vibrant city with a rich blend of French and Flemish influences. It’s not nearly as big as Paris, so it’s perfect for a day trip from London.

30. Southend-on-Sea ✅

• Train: 1 hour

A popular seaside resort, Southend offers the longest pleasure pier in the world. With its beaches, arcades, and Adventure Island amusement park, it’s a fun destination for families.

31. Broadstairs ✅

A charming coastal town, Broadstairs boasts sandy beaches and a rich history. It’s known for its association with Charles Dickens, who visited frequently.

32. Portsmouth ✅

A historic port city, Portsmouth is home to the Historic Dockyard, where you can see the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. The Spinnaker Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

33. Bournemouth ✅

• Train: 2 hours

A vibrant coastal town, Bournemouth is known for its seven miles of sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and a bustling town center. The Bournemouth Pier and Oceanarium are popular attractions.

34. Brussels, (Belgium) ✅

• Eurostar: 2 hours 

As Belgium’s capital, Brussels is accessible via Eurostar for a day trip , but you won’t get to explore this huge city for very long. 

35. Bury St. Edmunds ✅

• Drive: 2 Hours
• Train: 2 Hours

Commonly just called “Bury,” this is a charming historic market and cathedral town in Suffolk.

Day Trips from London that Are Just Too Far ❌

While all these destinations are fascinating and offer unique experiences, the travel times and logistics involved make them challenging for day trips from London. If you do decide to visit, consider staying overnight to truly appreciate what each location has to offer.

Keep in mind that although flights to some of these places might be a short time in the air, getting to and from the airport in London will take at least 1 hour, not to mention time going through security and passport control & immigration.

1. Edinburgh ❌

• Drive: 7-8 hours
• Train: 4.5-5 hours 

Scotland’s capital is too far for a comfortable day trip. It deserves an entire trip of its own!

2. Paris & Disneyland Paris ❌

• Eurostar to Paris: 2.5 hours
• Eurostar to Marne-la-Vallée (Disneyland): 3 hours  

Can you do Paris as a day trip from London? Technically yes. But even with the short(ish) Eurostar journey, it’s a stretch to do in one day and truly enjoy. Paris deserves so much time as it’s such an incredible and massive city. 

Disneyland Paris is equally difficult to do in one day, especially with kids – everyone would be absolutely exhausted.

3. Lake District ❌

• Drive: 5-6 hours
• Train: 2.5-3 hours to Windermere  

While beautiful, it’s a long journey from London!

4. Dublin ❌

• Flight: 1.5 hours
• Ferry: 3.5-8 hours (depending on route and ferry type) 

Requires a flight or a long ferry ride.

5. Cornwall (Penzance, St Ives, etc) ❌

• Drive: 4.5-8 hours (depending on destination within Cornwall)
• Train: 3-5 hours 

The stunning coastline is too far for just one day. The trouble with Cornwall is you really need a car once you’re there, but driving from London takes forever with traffic and the narrow twisting lanes of the West coast.

6. Isle of Skye ❌

• Drive: 12-13 hours
• Train (to Mallaig, then ferry): 10-11 hours 

Located in Scotland, it’s too remote for a day trip.

7. Liverpool ❌

• Drive: 4-5 hours
• Train: 2-2.5 hours 

Home to The Beatles and rich maritime history, Liverpool is doable for a day trip but would be very rushed.

8. Loch Ness ❌

• Drive: 9-10 hours
• Train to Inverness: 8 hours, then drive or bus: 30 minutes 

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness is famous for its legendary monster and beautiful scenery, but it’s too far for a day trip from London.

9. Amsterdam, Netherlands ❌

• Flight: 1 hour
• Eurostar: 4 hours 

The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is famous for its canals, historic houses, museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and vibrant nightlife.

While technically reachable in a day, Amsterdam really deserves a longer stay of at least 2 days minimum. Here’s all the ways to get there from London.

10. Provence, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 10-12 hours
• Flight to Marseille or Nice: 2 hours, then drive/train varies 

Known for its lavender fields and picturesque towns, Provence in the south of France is too far for a comfortable day trip.

11. Nice, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 12-14 hours
• Flight: 2 hours 

Located on the southeastern coast of France, Nice and its surrounding towns are famous for their Mediterranean beaches, but the journey would be too long for just a day trip.

12. Bordeaux, France ❌

• Drive (including Eurotunnel or ferry): 8-10 hours
• Train (Eurostar to Paris, then TGV): 6 hours

 Famous for its wine, Bordeaux in the southwest of France would be a stretch for a day trip.

13. Snowdonia National Park, Wales ❌

• Train: 3-4 hours to Betws-y-Coed

In Wales, it’s a lengthy journey from London. This is an incredible area that deserves more than a day to explore fully! 

14. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland ❌

• Drive (including ferry): 10-12 hours
• Flight to Belfast: 1.5 hours, then drive: 1 hour 

Located in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a unique geological formation and UNESCO World Heritage site, but it’s too far away for a practical day trip from London.

15. Bruges, Belgium (Brugge) ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 3.5-4 hours total 

A medieval gem with picturesque canals, Bruges is technically reachable for a day trip from London, but you won’t hardly any time to spend in one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.

When booking travel to Bruges, don’t confuse your destination with Bruges, France. Try typing in “Brugge” instead of “Bruges, ” and you’ll be sure to find your correct Belgian destination.

16. Ghent, Belgium ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 3-3.5 hours 

Slightly closer than Bruges, Ghent’s blend of historic sites and vibrant culture can be sampled in a day.

17. Antwerp, Belgium ❌

• Eurostar to Brussels, then train: 2.5-3 hours 

Known for its diamonds and port, Antwerp isn’t feasible for a day trip from London.

18. Scottish Highlands ❌

• Drive: 8-12 hours (depending on destination)
• Train: 8-9 hours to Inverness 

While parts of the Highlands might be reachable by a very long train journey or flight, the vast landscapes truly deserve more than a day.

I know this makes some of you Outlander fans sad, but you really can’t do a day trip from London to the Highlands.

19. Pembrokeshire Coast ❌

• Train: 4.5-5 hours to Tenby 

Located in the southwest of Wales, this stunning coastal national park is too far for a day trip from London.

20. Isle of Man ❌

• Ferry: 2.5-4 hours 

Situated in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man has its own rich history and culture. Getting there would involve a flight or ferry, making it impractical for just a day.

21. Belfast, Northern Ireland ❌

• Drive (including ferry): 8-10 hours 

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is steeped in history and culture. From the Titanic Belfast museum, which commemorates the city’s shipbuilding heritage, to the political murals of the Falls and Shankill roads, Belfast offers a deep dive into the region’s past and present.

22. Guernsey ❌

• Ferry: 3 hours (from Portsmouth. Portsmouth is a 2.5 hour train from London).

Located in the English Channel, Guernsey boasts beautiful beaches, historic forts, and a unique blend of British and French influences. The island’s compact size is perfect for exploring, but its distance from London makes it a challenging day trip.

23. Jersey ❌

• Ferry: 4.5 hours (from Portsmouth. Portsmouth is a 2.5 hour train from London)

The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey offers a mix of sandy beaches, cliffside walking trails, and historic castles. Its rich history spans from prehistoric times to its occupation during World War II.

Even though the Channel Islands look quite close on the map, it’s not feasible for a day trip from London.

24. Rotterdam, Netherlands ❌

• Flight: 1 hour to Amsterdam, then train: 40 minutes
• Eurostar to Amsterdam, then train: 4.5 hours in total 

A major port city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, maritime heritage, and cultural attractions like the Kunsthal and the Cube Houses. It’s a bit of a stretch for a day trip from London, especially if you want to explore the city in depth.

Taking a Day Trip from London: Final Tips

The most important tip I can give you is this: if you’re only in London for a short time, don’t do a day trip. London has so much to see and do that you’ll never get bored.

If you’re in London for more than 5 days, I would absolutely recommend a day trip. Just make it something that won’t exhaust you too much – two hours on a train, max.

If you live in London like me, you probably have a list as long as your arm of day trips to take. All you can do it tick them off, one by one!

More on Trips from London

Debating ‘Should I Rent a Car in London?’ Insider Tips

Visiting Greenwich with Kids: 5 Things That Adults Will Love, too! 

The Perfect Day out in Cambridge: 7 Things you Have to See 

Is Solo Travel Boring? 5 Reasons You Should Travel Alone ASAP

Trip from London to Amsterdam: 4 Ways to Get there for Every Budget

How to Get from London to Cornwall: 3 Easy Ways for Every Budget

Kynance Cove in Cornwall: 10 Must-Read Tips before Visiting 

Kennack Sands Beach: Is it the Best Beach for Kids in Cornwall? 

10 Things to Know about Visiting Stunning Poldhu Cove

Day Trips from London by Train FAQ

What is the best day trip out of london.

The best day trip for you depends on your goals and preferences.

Do you want to see a pretty village? Try St Albans, Canterbury, Bath, or Rye. Do you want to go to the seaside? Try Brighton, Dover, or Margate. Are you into history? Definitely check out Blenheim Palace, Bletchley Park, Stratford upon Avon, or Windsor Castle. Are you a student or an academic? Check out Oxford or Cambridge.

The list goes on, and all you can do is pick a place that sounds cool, get your train ticket, and go!

Can you do a day trip from London?

If you have enough time to spend in London and want to explore more of England, you can definitely do a day trip from London!

The best way is to pick a destination (start with this list!) and hop on the train. There’s so much to see in England, you don’t have to go far.

What is 1 hour away from London?

Harry Potter Studios, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, Windsor, Canterbury, Winchester, Hampton Court Palace, Hever Castle, St Albans, Rochester, and Hatfield House are all within a 1 hour train ride from London.

What countries are a day trip from London?

Wales is the closest country to London for a day trip. Try Cardiff, which is a charming Welsh city less than 2 hours from London by train.

Other countries like France are possible for a day trip, but you won’t get much time to spend there. Lille is a short 1.5 hour journey from London on the Eurostar, and it’s a much easier and smaller place to explore than Paris.

Belgium is also fast to get to, with only a 2 hour train ride to Brussels. Brussels is a bit easier to explore than Paris, but it’s also a large city.

What towns are 2 hours away from London?

York, Stonehenge, Stratford upon Avon, Cardiff, Dover, Birmingham, Worcester, Bournemouth, Bristol, Brussels, and many more towns are just a 2 hour (or less) train ride from London.

What is the closest beach to London?

Brighton is the closest proper sandy beach to London, and it takes less than 1 hour to get there by train. Margate is also a popular beach destination that takes only 2 hours on the train.

What is the shortest Eurostar journey from London?

The shortest journey on the Eurostar from London is to Lille, France at just 1 hour and 22 minutes.

What is the closest countryside to London?

There is incredible countryside bordering London, but the prettiest and closest natural woodlands are probably Epping Forest , which is just 1 hour from London on the Overground.

Which country is easy to travel from London?

France, Belgium, and Wales are the easiest countries to travel to from London by a short train ride.

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Amsterdam to London Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Amsterdam and then finish in London. Trips from Amsterdam to London are most popular in June, with the most tours doing this route then.

31 Amsterdam to London tour packages with 1,058 reviews

European Encounter (Summer, Start Amsterdam, 16 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

European Whirl (Start Amsterdam, Classic, 18 Days)

• In-depth Cultural

European Highlights (Summer, End London, 8 Days)

Wonderful experience! Great hotels and included and optional experiences. Our tour director, Sarah was entertaining, interesting and took great care of us. The trip was well laid out. Would do it again.

European Tapestry with London

• Christmas & New Year

Traditional Europe (End London, 19 Days)

It exceeded our expectations. Steve encouraged us to take the extra excursions & they were well worth the added cost. Our driver Tonino was amazing - especially in Rome & Paris traffic.

Europe's Highlights with London

I loved the tour we went on. Gennaro our driver was amazing and Zsolt our guide was incredible! They made an excellent team. We got to see so many fun, interesting things. The only thing I would say is maybe mention hygiene on the bus. There were some people on the bus that either didn't wear deodorant or shower or both and it reaked! It was way too hot not to take a shower everyday and wear deodorant. I would also say that maybe people should have most of their excursions paid for ahead of time. I booked mine ahead. I felt sorry for Zsolt having so much paperwork and having to constantly change things for the optional excursions. I felt bad for him because some of the people were always complaining about something. Also they had an entitled mentality that they had to be in the front and would push past you the whole trip, as well as not show up on time. Overall this trip was amazing and things went really well. I would say it was a trip of a lifetime and I got to see so many highlights of things that i had only seen pictures of. So amazing!

• Train & Rail
• Sightseeing

ULTIMATE BUCKET LIST

This itinerary a great if you want to see many cities in about a month. Tourradar provided all the train reservations, most seat reservations, and all the the hotel lodging. They also included information on how to get to each hotel from the arrival train station, information on city sites, city maps, and customer service was usually prompt to respond to any questions. If you are familiar with European train travel, this would probably be a great & easy way to visit many cities. However, we are American, and not familiar, so, at times, we did have some difficulty with finding the right trains, and the right platforms, and not speaking the language of the many countries we visited did make it challenging, but overall, we managed. Most hotels were close enough to the train station we could walk, some required bus or metro, which made it more challenging, figuring out how to pay (tickets needed or pay on board?), where exactly to the find bus stop (and which side of the road to catch the bus), etc. Tourradar did provide details on this, but honestly, sometimes it was hard to follow, and determine where exactly to exit the train stations, or find the correct street, bus stop. Again, the language barrier made it hard to get assistance from locals. However, even with the few difficulties we had, I would still recommend this tour and Tourradar. They did an excellent job of booking all the transportation, seats and lodging. All hotels were nice, clean, & well maintained. Extra information provided, suggested sites, maps, etc. was also very helpful. I have planned many complicated trips before so I know it takes a lot of work, so having the trip all handled by Tourradar was fantastic. This is the second time we have used this company (the first was a self drive tour of Scotland), and we were totally satisfied with that trip also. Therefore, I would not hesitate to use or recommend Tourradar to others for their travel experiences.

European Sampler with London

Tour guide was fantastic!! Great group. I would recommend to friends.

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European Horizon (Start Amsterdam, End London, 11 Days)

Rianna was incredible and made the whole tour the best. Couldn’t recommend her more. The trip as a whole was great and Rianna kept up good vibes the whole way through. The best!

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European Discovery (Start Amsterdam, 27 To 35, 12 Days) (11 destinations)

European Magic (Summer, Start Amsterdam, 9 Days)

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It exceeded our expectations. Steve encouraged us to take the extra excursions & they were well worth the added cost. Our driver Tonino was amazing - especially in Rome & Paris traffic.

It was a good tour. We liked it.

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for:  getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London:  The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for:  old-school seaside charm How to get there from London:  The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal.  Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  Book into  The Old Rectory , a bijou  b&b  in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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24 best day trips from amsterdam.

I visited Amsterdam this summer and fell in love with this city. But we took a few days trip from Amsterdam, and those ended up being some of my favorite memories from our trip. The public transportation in the Netherlands is great and it was so easy to take a day trip. I’m sharing my favorites here!

Visiting Amsterdam makes for an exciting standalone city break. With world-class museums and galleries filled with art history, historic churches, and poignant World War II sites, you’ll find many things to do in this beautiful canal city to fill your trip itinerary. Oh, and let’s not forget about those stunning canals lined which are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

But there are many great reasons why you should veer off the beaten path on your Netherlands trip and try out one of these best day trips from Amsterdam.

For starters, the Netherlands is so small that it’s possible to visit anywhere in the country on a day trip. Germany and Belgium are also next-door neighbors and close enough to the Dutch capital for a short side trip.

You’ll instantly realize how great public transport is when you visit Amsterdam too. Amsterdam Central Station connects this historic city with other train stations in college cities, medieval towns with a cobblestone market square, and tulip-laded villages in the countryside.

Gaining a deeper appreciation of the local culture, however, has to be the top reason of all. Here are some of the best places to visit in the Netherlands on day trips via public transport, car, and group tour!

Here's a Short Cut

How To Take Day Trips to the Netherlands Open Air Museum

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One of the top day trips from Amsterdam if you are traveling with kids and want to learn more about the Netherlands’ past, including medieval history, is to visit the Open Air Museum. It’s located in Arnhem, deep in the lush, green Dutch countryside.

Guides dressed in period clothing will lead you around this beautiful, authentic space where you can explore traditional houses and working windmills inside and out. There are buildings and vehicles from several eras and it will help you paint a picture of what life was like for Dutch people living at those times.

Distance from Amsterdam: 104 km/65 miles

You can travel to Netherlands Open Air Museum by car or by public transport. This round-trip journey takes approximately one hour by car and two hours by train.

By car, drive southeast from Amsterdam along the A1, turning onto the A30 and finally the A12 main roads. Intercity trains depart from Amsterdam Central Station to Arnhem Centraal every 30 minutes. From that train station, hop on the N.3 bus to Arnhem Peter van Anrooylaan bus stop which is right by the outdoor museum.

2. The Hague

Visiting Amsterdam and disappointed that the Dutch Royal Family doesn’t live in Amsterdam and that the Dutch Parliament isn’t based there either? It’s settled: the best day trip from Amsterdam for you has to be The Hague. It’s one of the best day trips from amsterdam by train.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t love The Hague. It just seemed like another big city, but without the charm of Amsterdam. What I did love was visiting the Mauritshuis museum!

Even though The Hague isn’t the Dutch capital, the Dutch Royal Family lives in Huis ten Bosch Palace right here in this city on the North Sea. Binnenhof is a complex of important government buildings in the historic city center of The Hague which includes Noordeinde Palace, the King’s workplace, and the Dutch Parliament buildings.

If that wasn’t impressive enough, the United Nations’ International Court of Justice is based in The Hague. The Peace Palace and the International Criminal Court buildings are where the work of the International Court is carried out. Phew!

While being home to the Dutch Royal Family, Dutch Parliament, International Court, and Peace Palace is prestigious, there are many other reasons why you should visit The Hague.

Its historic center is incredibly beautiful surrounded by a blend of centuries-old buildings and modern skyscrapers. One of the most important museums of Dutch art history, the Mauritshuis, is also in The Hague. It houses the famous Girl With the Pearl Earring painting by Dutch Golden Age artist Vermeer.

Distance from Amsterdam: 65 km/40 miles

You can travel to The Hague by car, train, or one of the many organized day tours from Amsterdam to The Hague. This journey takes about an hour by car and 50 minutes on the train.

If you’re driving, take the main A10 ring road out of Amsterdam and head southwest along the A4 until you reach the city. Direct Sprinter trains depart from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station every 30 minutes to The Hague, and there are plenty of other non-direct services.

You’ve no doubt heard of the famous cheese, so why not visit the charming town where it was invented? Gouda is a small city in South Holland and one of the most fun day trips from Amsterdam for foodies and lovers of sweet and mild hard Dutch cheeses.

Centered around Gouda’s Market Square, you’ll find the beautiful Old Town Hall and the Gouda Cheese Market held every Thursday morning from April to September. If the Gouda Cheese Market isn’t open, you can hit up one of the many famous cheese shops elsewhere in the city center.

Round off your trip with a visit to Museum Gouda to learn more about Dutch history in the area. Check out the Gouda Cheese Experience if you really can’t get enough of this delicious, famous cheese.

Distance from Amsterdam: 71 km/44 miles

You can visit Gouda on a day trip via car or public transport. Driving takes approximately one hour while the train and bus take around 75 minutes.

Drive along the A10 ring road out of Amsterdam and head southeast along the A2 towards Utrecht before turning southwest onto the A12 towards Gouda. Direct Sprinter trains depart Amsterdam Central Station every 90 minutes to Woerden, Gouda’s nearest station, but there are several more non-direct options. From Woerden, catch the non-stop shuttle bus to Gouda.

4. Keukenhof Gardens

Visiting Amsterdam during the spring? You can’t visit Holland without heading to Keukenhof Gardens. It’s one of the most magical places to visit near Amsterdam during this season. Every year, these gardens bloom with acres and acres of rainbow-colored tulips and tourists flock to the Dutch countryside to see them.

Tulip fields aren’t just exceptionally pretty to look at, they are part of the local culture and big business in the Netherlands. Keukenhof Gardens is an expansive park with woodland, ponds, and fountains with plenty of room (and lots to see!) for everyone who wants to visit during the high season.

Distance from Amsterdam: 40 km/25 miles

You can drive, take public transport, or join organized Amsterdam day tours to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Driving takes around 40 minutes a combination of public trains/buses takes just over one hour.

By car, take the A4 road heading southwest until you turn right onto N207 towards Keukenhof. It doesn’t matter whether you catch a train from Central Station or Sloterdijk Station, every service towards Lisse (Keukenhof’s closest town, a 15-minute walk away) departs every hour and changes at Schiphol Airport station.

During the tulip festival season, you can buy tickets for the Keukenhof Express N.852 tourist buses which will transport you directly from Amsterdam to Keukenhof. Or, there are plenty of small group tours organized by travel companies.

If you’re looking for day trips from Amsterdam to other countries, definitely consider visiting Bruges. If you think all major Dutch cities are in the Netherlands, think again! Bruges is a Dutch-speaking town in Belgium that happens to have a medieval Old Town that looks like a painting ripped from a fairytale book.

One of the main landmarks in Bruges’ Market Square is its slightly tilted 13th-century Belfry where you can climb up to witness beautiful views. Buy delicious Belgian chocolate and fresh waffles from cafes and sail along the quaint, charming canals.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to take your passport with you when crossing borders!

Distance from Amsterdam: 258 km/160 miles

The journey to take a Bruges day trip from Amsterdam is around three hours by both car and train. It’s best to travel by train to avoid parking stresses and unnecessary extra paperwork that might come with taking a rental bar across a border. You can also book small-group Amsterdam day tours for a convenient day trip from Amsterdam to Bruges.

Hop on a Eurostar or InterCity train from Amsterdam Central Station to Brussels Central Station which departs at least every 60 minutes. Then, take an IC train to Bruges.

6. Zaanse Schans

Want to see a historic Dutch windmill or perhaps learn how traditional wooden clogs are made? Only visiting Amsterdam won’t fulfill those wishes, but taking just a short trip to the small town of Zaanse Schans will!

One of the most scenic Netherlands trips you could venture on, Zaanse Schans was purposefully built with traditional houses and windmills. It resembles how this village in the Dutch countryside would have looked in the 18th and 19th centuries.

There are lots of exhibits where you can learn more about the village’s history and old trades like pewter casting as well as how traditional wooden clogs are carved. I loved visiting this cute little town and it provided a ton of adorable photo ops!

Distance from Amsterdam: 20 km/12 miles

You can either drive or take a bus to Zaanse Schans. Driving takes 18 minutes and the bus takes around 40 minutes. There are plenty of half and full-day tours from Amsterdam too.

By car, drive through the Amsterdam Noord neighborhood and head northwest towards Zaanse Schans. And by bus, head to Amsterdam Central Station and catch the N.391 bus directly to the Zaandam Zaanse Schans bus stop.

7. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is one of the major Dutch cities and one of the best cities near Amsterdam to visit on a side trip. While it’s also a large waterside city in South Holland, Rotterdam couldn’t be more different than Amsterdam. It has a modern, cosmopolitan city center with a blend of traditional houses along the canal and contemporary skyscrapers in the port.

Architecture is one of the main reasons why many visit Rotterdam. This city is known for the Cube Houses, post-World War II residential buildings designed to look like trees. Today, the Cube Houses are a museum with photos, plans, and more detailing everything to do with the architect Piet Blom’s Cube Houses project.

Distance from Amsterdam: 78 km/48 miles

Driving takes even longer than public transport to get to Rotterdam and you won’t need a car to get around the city, so it’s far better to take public transport. Or, you can book one of the day tours from Amsterdam if you’d like to tag another town or city onto your one-day trip.

Intercity or Eurostar services leave Central Station to Rotterdam every half an hour and only take around 40 minutes. The city is a short walk from the station; super easy!

This was probably my favorite day trip from Amsterdam. I just fell in love with this little city and its history!

Delft is one of The Hague’s neighboring cities and one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands to learn more about Dutch art history and local culture.

It’s the birthplace of Delftware, an iconic ceramic style consisting of white, glazed pottery with handpainted blue designs. The original 17th century factory is still in operation where they have a museum and lead guided tours.

The Market Square in Delft’s Old Town boasts beautiful churches, a Renaissance-era Town Hall, and a museum dedicated to painter Johannes Vermeer who was born here. Visiting Delft for a day will give you an overview of Dutch history that you can’t get in Amsterdam.

If you choose to visit Delft, I highly recommend going on a Saturday so that you can shop at the Antiekmarkt. We found lots of great gems like affordable KLM houses, antique and real Royal Delft pottery, and some old clogs!

Distance from Amsterdam: 66 km/41 miles

Day tours from Amsterdam (often teamed with a visit to The Hague) and trains are both great ways to visit Delft. You can drive, but it takes the exact same time as public transport so there are few benefits.

Intercity trains depart from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station to Delft train station every 30 minutes and these journeys about an hour. The station is a short walk to Delft market square in the center of the city.

One of the easiest and best day trips from Amsterdam by train, this beautiful canal city is one of Amsterdam’s neighboring cities. If you only have half a day to spare and are looking for just a short trip, Haarlem is an ideal choice.

Visit the Corrie ten Boom House near the Town Hall and market square where Jewish locals hid during World War II. Take a boat ride along the canals around the city center, and visit the Frans Hals Museum dedicated to another Dutch Master if you have the time.

Distance from Amsterdam: 33 km/20.5 miles

Taking public transport to Haarlem takes less than 15 minutes while driving takes half an hour, so the former is the best option for an easy day trip. We took the train from Amsterdam Centraal and it was very straight forward.

Direct Sprinter trains depart Amsterdam Sloterdijk station every eight (yes, eight!) minutes to Haarlem. From the station, the central market square is a very short walk south.

10. Groningen

Tucked away in the north, Groningen is not one of the major Dutch cities. It’s one of the most ideal day trips from Amsterdam if you want to travel more off the beaten path.

Groningen is the Dutch equivalent of a college town with a little shipbuilding and medieval history thrown in too. Visit the market square where you’ll find the Martinitoren, one of the most iconic buildings on the city’s skyline, and wander around the university’s historic campus.

Distance from Amsterdam: 186 km/115.5 miles

You can either drive or take public transport to Groningen from Amsterdam. Unfortunately, there are no direct trains, but it’s still a super straightforward route. The journey takes around two hours by car or two and a half hours by train.

By car, follow the main A6 and A7 roads northeast to Groningen. Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Amersfoort Central Station, where you can catch a connection to Groningen Railway Station. These services (Intercity and Sprinter) depart approximately twice an hour.

11. Brussels

Looking to maximize your time in Europe? One of the best day trips out of Amsterdam is to Brussels. If you leave early and stay late, you can tick off all the main sights of the Belgian capital city without rushing.

Grand Place is Brussels’ market square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city center consisting of opulent, 14th-century buildings. Don’t leave without tasting delicious Belgian chocolate and saying hello to the peeing statue of Mannekin Pis and the street art murals of the beloved comic book character Tintin.

Distance from Amsterdam: 208 km/129 miles

It couldn’t be simpler to venture on a day trip to Brussels from Amsterdam either by train or small group tour. Driving to Brussels takes around two hours and 40 minutes while train journeys are approximately two hours.

Take a direct train via Thalys or Eurostar from Central Station to Brussels Zuid/Midi station. Direct trains depart every two hours but there are other ones you can catch with connections in Rotterdam and Schiphol Airport.

12. Dusseldorf

One of the easiest train trips from Amsterdam Central Station is to, believe it or not, Germany! Dusseldorf is one of the closest major German cities to Amsterdam and an ideal place to visit for a day.

Dusseldorf’s city center is split by the Rhine River with the Old Town on the east and the contemporary, modern side to the west. Visit Königsallee for boutique shopping opportunities and the Schifffahrtsmuseum Tower for a local history museum and epic panoramic views.

Distance from Amsterdam: 230 km/143 miles

You can drive to Dusseldorf from Amsterdam in two hours and 30 minutes or take a direct train and be there in just over two hours. Taking public transport is the easiest option for country-hopping day trips!

ICE International train services depart from Amsterdam Central to Dusseldorf Central Station every two hours. From the station, it’s a short 10-minute ride on the U-Bahn to get into the center of Dusseldorf.

13. Giethoorn

Giethoorn might be one of the only villages in the Dutch countryside that hasn’t been purpose-built to look historic. It just does! This is one of the top day trips from Amsterdam if you want to visit a picturesque place with thatched houses that people really live in.

Book a boat tour of the waterways to gain a fascinating glimpse into how this strictly car-free small town operates day-to-day. On a boat ride with a local guide from the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, you’ll not only see how pretty this peaceful place is but learn about the village’s history too.

Distance from Amsterdam: 125 km/78 miles

Traveling to Giethoorn from Amsterdam by public transport is possible, but takes around an hour longer than traveling by car. Either drive or book one of the many small group day tours from Amsterdam.

By car, take the A6 northwest out of Amsterdam before turning onto the N333 road to Giethoorn. This journey takes around 90 minutes.

14. Utrecht

If Rotterdam is too modern and The Hague is too busy, head to the beautiful city of Utrecht. It’s known for the stacks of medieval history tucked away in every building of its Old Town like the Gothic St Martin’s Cathedral and the Dom Tower.

Another iconic building just outside of Utrecht’s city center, the Rietveld-Schröder House, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with its architecture, Utrecht boasts a charming canal you can kayak along with alfresco dining on the banks.

Distance from Amsterdam: 43 km/27 miles

Day trips to Utrecht from Amsterdam are also much easier, cheaper, and faster by train than by car.

Direct ICE or Intercity train trips from Amsterdam Central Station depart for Utrecht every one to two hours. The train journey only takes half an hour, so it’s one of the quickest day trips.

15. Edam (and Volendam & Marken)

Gouda isn’t the only Dutch town that invented a famous cheese. The charming fishing village of Edam also has its fair share of cheese shops and hosts a traditional cheese market every Wednesday during summer.

One of the most popular, and best, Amsterdam day trips is to visit another fishing village called Volendam and a small town on an offshore island called Marken too. This trifecta of idyllic Dutch towns will allow you to taste local Dutch cheeses, walk along colorful harbors, take a boat tour, taste fresh seafood, and make the most out of your one-day trip.

Distance from Amsterdam: 21 km/13 miles

Organized Amsterdam excursions and renting a car are the best ways to take a day trip to Edam if you want to also visit Volendam and Marken. Public transport is possible but not worth the hassle.

By car, Edam is only 25 minutes north of Amsterdam along the N247 road and Volendam is a seven-minute journey east. To get to Marken, you can either drive 22 minutes south along the coast and take the bridge or catch a 24-minute ferry boat ride from Volendam.

Leiden is the hidden gem of South Holland and it’s a shame more people don’t visit on an Amsterdam day trip. This picturesque town is like a miniature Amsterdam except you’ll be able to see all the main sights in just one day!

It’s an ancient Dutch town, boasting the Netherlands’ very first university. Leiden Botanical Garden was also where the first tulip was planted in Western Europe. Dutch Golden Age painter Rembrandt was born in Leiden, so the Museum de Lakenhal houses many of his works.

Distance from Amsterdam: 45 km/28 miles

Taking a day trip to Leiden is much quicker and easier by train as journeys are only around 30 minutes compared to 45 minutes by car. All the main sights in Leiden are a short walk from each other.

Head to Amsterdam Sloterdijk station and catch a direct Intercity or Sprinter service to Leiden Centraal. These services leave at least every 30 minutes and there are more you can catch if you don’t mind changing trains at Schiphol Airport.

Hoorn is an old fishing village on the North Sea and an off-the-beaten-path alternative to the more touristy Volendam. It’s one of the best Amsterdam day trips to discover more about the Netherlands’ maritime heritage.

It was once a key port in the Dutch East India Company with sailors strolling past the 16th-century Hoofdtoren tower on their way into town. The 17th-century center of this charming fishing village is full of churches, museums, and other ornate buildings.

Distance from Amsterdam: 44 km/27.5 miles

You can do a day trip to Hoorn either by car or train, both are easy though driving is significantly faster. By car, this journey takes around 35 minutes and by bus, it’s about an hour.

Drive north out of Amsterdam following the A8 directly north to Hoorn. Alternatively, catch the direct N.314 bus from Central Station to Hoorn bus station.

Direct Sprinter train services are also available from Amsterdam Central, but these train trips stop at every single little station along the route so the journey takes 90 minutes. Both the train and bus leave every hour.

18. Alkmaar

Yes, there’s another Dutch town filled with cheese shops and a traditional cheese market in its city center! While Alkmaar doesn’t have a famous cheese named after it, this picturesque town arguably hosts the more popular, better food market on Friday mornings.

Continuing the cheese theme, you can visit the Dutch Cheese Museum whilst in Alkmaar to learn all about all varieties of famous cheese in the Netherlands and the village’s history.

Distance from Amsterdam: 42 km/26 miles

Whether you take a train or drive to Alkmaar on a day trip, both journeys are easy and will take you the same amount of time which is approximately 40 minutes.

Drive north across the Amsterdam Noord neighborhood and then northwest along the A8 and the smaller N246 and N244 roads to Alkmaar. If you’re traveling by train, head to Amsterdam Sloterdijk station and take a direct Intercity service to Alkmaar station. From there, it’s a very short walk to the town’s market square.

19. Antwerp

Due to its proximity to the border, Antwerp is the most convenient day trip from Amsterdam if you want to visit Belgium. This beautiful city is famous for its Instagrammable Old Town where you can find delicious Belgian chocolate, renaissance architecture, and a historic diamond district.

Distance from Amsterdam: 159 km/99 miles

Day trips to Antwerp from Amsterdam are one of the easiest cross-border trips! Trains are faster than driving and far less stressful than renting a car.

Hop on a direct IC, Intercity, or Thalys service from Amsterdam Central to Antwerpen-Centraal station. They depart roughly every hour and the journey takes around one hour and 45 minutes.

20. Maastricht

Visiting Maastricht is one of the least popular Amsterdam day trips as it’s one of the furthest major cities away from the capital. But if you wanted to visit a city far off the beaten path, it’s a fantastic choice.

Maastricht is a university town on the Belgian border with a vibrant past. One of the first battles that took place on the Western Front in World War II was the Battle of Maastricht and the Maastricht Treaty, signed here, was the foundation of the European Union. Along with its medieval historic center, Maastricht has an incredibly diverse history that makes it well worth visiting.

Distance from Amsterdam: 210 km/130 miles

Despite Maastricht being in the Netherlands, it’s quite far away from Amsterdam. It often takes just as long to travel there as it does to cities in Belgium or Germany! But it’s definitely still doable by train or by car. Both options for this journey take around two hours and 20 minutes.

Drive southeast along the main A2 road from Amsterdam before turning onto the A73 road to Maastricht. Direct Intercity trains leave Amsterdam Central to Maastricht every 30 minutes.

Essen is another option if you’re looking for more day trips from Amsterdam to Germany.

Although it is known for its coal mining history, Essen is a lush, green city with lots of parks and heritage trails. However, if you were interested in learning more about Essen’s energy history, its former 19th-century coal mine is now a UNESCO site and a museum.

Distance from Amsterdam: 203 km/126 miles

You can either drive or take trains to Essen from Amsterdam. Both options have a similar journey length with driving taking around two and a half hours and the trains taking closer to two hours and 10 minutes.

Drive southeast out of Amsterdam along the A1, A30, and A12 main roads until you reach the German border where you’ll drive on Autobahn 3 for most of the way until you reach Essen.

ICE International trains to Duisburg Central Station depart Amsterdam Central every two hours. From Duisburg, hop on a quick regional train to Essen Central Station.

22. Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best Amsterdam day trips if you want to learn more about how the Netherlands has stopped land from flooding time and again. It turns out, the beautiful canals and windmills in Kinderdijjk actually have an important job!

Distance from Amsterdam: 95 km/59 miles

While it’s possible to venture on day trips to Kinderdijk on public transport via Rotterdam, you’re looking at a journey of at least two trains and two buses. This is a great side trip if you don’t mind driving in the Netherlands because it’s only a 75-minute ride.

Drive southeast from Amsterdam along the A2 where you will eventually loop around on the A27 and A15.

23. Amersfoort

There are many medieval cities in the Netherlands but if you’re looking for day trips from Amsterdam with the same vibe in a small town, Amersfoort is a fantastic choice. It’s only a stone’s throw from Utrecht so it’s a convenient place to visit from the capital.

Amersfoort’s landmark is called Koppelpoort, a wonderfully-preserved 14th and 15th-century city gate that stretches across land and water. Its clock tower, the Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren, looms over the narrow cobblestone lanes. Plus, Amersfoort is off the usual tourist trail.

Distance from Amsterdam: 53 km/33 miles

Driving to Amersfoort for a day trip might be ten minutes quicker than taking the train, but it’s a negligible amount of time when the train journey from Amsterdam is only one hour. Save on parking and rental car costs and take the train.

Direct Sprinter trains depart from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station to Amersfoort Centraal station every half an hour. There are also many more services from Amsterdam Central with connections if you don’t mind changing trains at Schiphol Airport or Utrecht.

24. Castle Muiderslot

Saving the most low-key place to take a trip out of Amsterdam until last, Muiderslot is a beautiful pink-hued, fairytale-esque castle. This 13th-century castle sits in the middle of a moat and has turrets and a drawbridge. Yes, it looks exactly like the castles in folktales and legends!

You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the museum and formal gardens as well as the fully renovated interiors.

Distance from Amsterdam: 16 km/10 miles

Driving to Muiderslot only takes 30 minutes, but renting a car is a lot of effort for a half-day adventure. Instead, use a combination of Amsterdam’s affordable train and bus services.

There are many options but the best is to take one of the Sprinter trains from Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station to Weesp Station (they depart every hour) and then the N.110 bus service to Muiden, which is where you’ll find the castle.

Day Trips From Amsterdam FAQs

Unfortunately, a day trip between Amsterdam and London isn’t possible. The Eurostar train takes four hours to travel between Amsterdam Central Station to St. Pancras International in London which is an eight-hour round trip.

Alternatively, flights between the Dutch capital and the English capital only take around one hour and 15 minutes. However, you would need to find convenient flight times and you would also have to ask yourself if a day trip to such a huge city like London would be worth it.

Some other countries you can visit while in Amsterdam include Belgium and Germany which are both just a short trip via public transport. Luxembourg and France are too far away for a day trip, regardless of whether you are traveling by road or public transport.

No matter which of these amazing day trips from Amsterdam you choose, you’ll absolutely enjoy exploring more places in the Netherlands when you visit Amsterdam. It’s a country full of tulip fields, historic towns, cheese markets, windmills, and much more. What’s not to love?!

Wanderlust Crew

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