Visit the Dutch countryside and enjoy Dutch icons such as flowers, windmills, cheeses, clogs, cows, traditional costumes, castles, beaches and lakes. The countryside is just 30 minutes from the canals of Amsterdam .

In the Zaanse Schans, you will experience the Dutch Countryside at its best. With many windmills and museums near Amsterdam.

East of the Bollenstreek lies the largest lake district in the Netherlands. The authentic Kaag Island is a real must. The island can only be reached by ferry and has its own atmosphere.

Come spring, the Dutch countryside transforms into a painter’s palette of vibrant colours. The region of North Holland, especially the area around Keukenhof, comes alive with a rainbow of blooming tulips, hyacinths and daffodils.

The windmill, as an enduring Dutch icon, continues to fascinate and inspire. Its presence in the Dutch landscape, whether in towns, villages, or countryside, adds a unique charm and historical depth to the region.

Lisse is one of the most famous flower towns in the Netherlands and especially known for its many colourful tulip fields in spring and Flower Park Keukenhof. During the Dutch Tulip Festival there are lots of activities and events in and around Lisse around the flowering tulips.

To the north of Amsterdam lie the beautiful regions: Zaanstreek and Waterland. Here, you will experience Holland as it used to be. With windmills, fishing villages, cheese farms and more, this region is a must visit if you want to see the countryside of Amsterdam.

With the Dutch Countryside Card you can fully enjoy the countryside around Amsterdam. With this tourist card you will travel 2 or 3 days for free with all public transport in the region around Amsterdam.

Explore the countryside near Amsterdam with our free countryside map and discover the best places to visit. Explore the tulips, windmills, beaches, cheeses and much more. Explanation of the map. On the map we have collected the best activities in the Dutch Countryside. See below the meaning of the different icons.

In this article, we will delve into the significance of castles in Dutch culture, their connection to the bustling city of Amsterdam, and highlight a few captivating castle locations near Amsterdam that are well worth a visit.