A 3 Day Itinerary for the Netherlands

A 3 Day Efficient Itinerary for the Netherlands | Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft and more

About the Netherlands

Transportation

Pay on the Go

I evaluated rail passes because they worked well for me in Germany and a few other Western European countries in the past. However, after considering the costs for this quick 3-day itinerary, I realized paying on the go would turn out to be cheaper.

Your options are:

Transport Apps

Get the NS app or 9292 on your phone and buy your tickets on the go. The NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) app is your go-to for Dutch Railways planning. It will help you with all planning from point A to point B that involves walking, trams, buses, and trains, but you will be able to buy only train tickets on it. Once bought, scan the QR code on the turnstiles at the train stations and you are good to go. It worked for me like a charm everywhere.

9292 also lays out routes for various transportation modes but it lets you buy tickets for all transport options, not just trains. I could not set up 9292 when I was in India (something to do with it not allowing foreign IPs) but it seemed to work in the Netherlands.

To use trams and buses, download the HTM app. I used the HTM Day Ticket to travel within a city. It costs € 8 and allows unlimited travel by buses and trams of HTM. Just show it to the driver when you get on a bus or tram. If travelling to other cities, a Tourist Day Ticket will be the one to get.

Contactless Payment

Some buses and trams also accept contactless payments with your international credit card. Check for contactless symbols on the card reader on the bus or tram. More on OV-Pay.

An OV-chipkaart

In the Netherlands, most people use an OV-chipkaart for getting around. You can buy this rechargeable card at train stations, bus stops, or online. Just add money to it at ticket machines, service counters, or online with your international credit card. When you hop on and off trains or buses, swipe your OV-chipkaart on the reader, and the fare will be taken out automatically.

Passes

Holland Travel Ticket

Costing € 48 on workdays; all day except between 6.30 am – 9.00 am, and on weekends; all day, this one-day travel ticket is a bargain if you want to see multiple places in a single day. The ticket allows travel in all trains, buses, trams, metros, and ferries in the Netherlands for the day of purchase and is valid from purchase time to 4 AM the next morning. However, buy this only if you are planning on doing a lot of trips in a day. I didn’t find it of value.

The Zuid Holland Travel Ticket

For € 15,50, the Tourist Day Ticket offers unlimited travel by bus, tram, metro and waterbus throughout the South Holland Rotterdam and The Hague region for a fixed price for a whole day. This does not cover a train, regrettably. Vending points are here.

I used the HTM Day Ticket to travel within a city. It costs € 8 and allows unlimited travel by buses and trams of HTM. Just show it to the driver when you get on a bus or tram. If travelling to other cities, a Tourist Day Ticket will be the one to get for unlimited travel on buses, trams, metros, and ferries.

Flixbus

With fares as low as € 2.99, cancellation options, and covering most major cities, Flixbus is a good choice to go from city to city in most Western European countries including the Netherlands. However, seats fill up quickly, so advanced booking is recommended, unlike a train. From Schipol Airport though, the Flixbuses seemed to go directly only to The Hague and Rotterdam.

How’s it in February?

In late February, when I went, it was cold but tolerable. Average temperatures ranged from 3 to 12 degrees Celsius (37 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit). There were occasional rain showers. Days were short, with the sun setting by 5 PM. It’s advisable to bring layers, including a warm jacket, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Also, many attractions are open for shorter hours. While it is best not to travel in winter, it is when you will encounter smaller crowds and get cheaper accommodation. Give for the get, eh?

Now what to do in 3 days in the Netherlands in winter and solo? Here goes. Of course, start with Amsterdam.

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A 3 Day Efficient Itinerary for the Netherlands | Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft and more

Day 1: Amsterdam

A walking tour of Amsterdam will take you through some iconic locations in the city or you can cover them yourself. Most places are accessible using bicycles. This was a fantastic walking tour I recommend.

However, if you want to cover Amsterdam’s highlights on your own, below are the main points of interest which you should tick off on day 1 of the three-day Netherlands Itinerary.

Grand Centraal Station

Amsterdam’s Centraal Station, built in 1889 by Pierre Cuypers (the same architect behind the Rijksmuseum!), isn’t just a train hub—it’s a spectacle to gawk at! Think soaring Gothic arches, intricate stained glass, and a clock tower overlooking bustling canals. More than a transport point, it’s a vibrant slice of Amsterdam, and it serves to transport you not just across the country, but also back in time. Beware of pickpockets.

Canal Tours

A canal tour is an easy and delightful way to see Amsterdam. True, it is touristy and corny, but if you’re visiting for the first time, why not experience the essence of this city, i.e. the iconic canals?

Because these iconic canals weren’t just dreamed up for beauty; they’re a legacy of the 17th-century “Golden Age.” As the city expanded and the land became scarce, resourceful Dutch engineers carved over 165 kilometres (103 miles) of watery highways through marshland. Merchants sailed goods directly to warehouses lining the canals, boosting trade and transforming Amsterdam into a major port.

Therefore, as you gently cruise along in a boat (or even stay in one), remember, that these canals were once the backbone of a powerful maritime nation. Below are some tour options but you can buy tickets right by Centraal Station, at the Tourist Information office or at the various shops around the city centre that offer cruises. Don’t worry. You can’t miss them.

The Canals of Amsterdam are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2010).

 

Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum, designed by the architect Pierre Cuypers, is a majestic palace of red brick and soaring spires that opened its doors to the public in 1885. Inside, you will find iconic masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s “Night Watch”, Vermeer’s “The Milk Maid”, and countless other Dutch Golden Age gems. A stroll through the Rijksmuseum is a time-travel journey into the heart of Dutch creativity and heritage. It is a special visit. Tickets and timings are here. This is an Amsterdam must-do.

Van Gogh Museum

Designed by architect Gerrit Rietveld, the Van Gogh Museum opened in 1973 and houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works: sunflowers blazing gold, swirling starry nights, and self-portraits revealing a tormented soul. Beyond the paintings, interactive exhibits and multimedia experiences bring his life and turbulent creativity to life. Another memorable visit; however, I prefer the Rijksmuseum. If you are short on time, do the latter. Tickets and timings are here.

Anne Frank House

In the heart of Amsterdam’s Prinsengracht Canal stands the Anne Frank House. A visit to her house was the highlight of my Amsterdam visit. It was an emotional journey and I was in tears throughout. I remember every aspect of her memoir which I read when I was very young. And while the house is a place of sorrow and reflection, it also invoked an awe inside me. How resilient is the human spirit?!

Built in the 17th century, the house/museum was the hiding place for the Frank family and four others during World War II. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time; I know I’ve already said that a lot, but the day felt like it. On the first floor of the house are Anne’s diary entries displayed in her handwriting, alongside photos of her family and friends. You can almost hear her pen scratching across the pages, documenting her thoughts and fears. On the higher floors, is Anne’s tiny room, with its wallpaper and pin-up magazine clippings. Even mundane sights, like the small bathroom and Anne’s makeshift bookcase, take on immense significance when you remember what happened eventually. As you exit, a short film narrates her story, leading to more tears and heartache. Sigh. It was an emotional visit.

Details of the Anne Frank House are here.

Visiting the Anne Frank House alongside the Jewish Quarters offers a powerful immersion into the Holocaust’s human cost. Prepare for an emotionally demanding yet profoundly important experience.

Red Light District

Nestled in the heart of the city’s Old Town, the Red Light District spans two canals and dates back to the 14th century, initially serving as sailors’ quarters with brothels. Over time, it evolved into a regulated zone for sex work in the 19th century and continues to be one of the oldest and most famous Red Light Districts worldwide. Prostitutes operate from behind brightly lit windows. The area is also home to sex museums and shops selling adult novelties. The Red Light District comes alive in the evening and stays busy until late at night, especially on Thursdays to Saturdays.

Sex work is legal in the Netherlands, but strictly regulated, including age restrictions and health checks. Respect the rules: Photography and public nudity are strictly prohibited. Be respectful of individuals working in the area. Check out the Museum of Prostitution, housed in a former brothel, for an informative and thought-provoking experience.

Lastly, cycle from Rembrandt Square, pedal through Vondelpark and explore Jordaan’s winding streets for a perfect Amsterdam trifecta. Rembrandt Square is Amsterdam’s vibrant heart, where all the good pubs and bars are! Vondelpark is the city’s Green Lung. This 105-hectare urban oasis, named after playwright Joost van den Vondel, offers bike paths, cafes, an open-air theatre, and even a film museum. Jordaan is Amsterdam’s unique charming historic neighbourhood which is where Anne Frank Museum is also located.

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A 3 Day Efficient Itinerary for the Netherlands | Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft and more

The Hague as a Base

For the next part of my trip, I made The Hague my base. Not only was it cheaper than Amsterdam but also strategically located, making it easy to reach various destinations in the southern part of the country. In addition, as the political and cultural centre of the Netherlands, the city is rich in history, museums, and landmarks. The Hague is also located along the North Sea coast, providing an opportunity to enjoy the beaches when you need a break from exploring inland attractions. And what attracted me most, was that it offered a more relaxed and peaceful environment than Amsterdam. I wanted to escape the chaos and tourist throngs and stay somewhere local.

With The Hague as a base, I explored the cities that follow below. The Hague features on day 3 of my itinerary, as I wanted to cover the other cities first, and also because I paired The Hague with Gouda, and the combination offered a more efficient itinerary.

Day 2: Delft, Rotterdam, and Kinderdijk

This journey can be made easily by booking trains using the NS app. In addition, you can buy the HTM Day Ticket if you want to take a tram or bus within a city or purchase spot tickets on the HTM app on the go.

 

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—Some tours offer combined ways to see these cities and are not too expensive—

 

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Delft

A 25-minute train ride connects The Hague to Delft. Delft Station is located between The Hague Central and Rotterdam Central. The train from Amsterdam Centraal to Delft Station takes about an hour.

About

Delft, home to about 103,000 people, lies along the Schie River. It is famously the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer (the painter of “The Girl with a Pearl Earring”, which is housed at the Mauritshuis in The Hague) and the iconic blue-and-white Delftware pottery, well-known and used worldwide. Delft may be a charming medieval gem, but it’s also home to one of the top universities in the country—proof that brains and beauty can coexist! 🙂 It’s an ideal destination for a half-day trip in the Netherlands.

Vermeer also created a gorgeous cityscape titled “View of Delft,” also housed at the Mauritshuis. Remarkably, Delft still pretty much looks like the painting, which was created in 1661: the same interplay of light and shade, the cloudy sky, and the subtle reflections of exquisite buildings in the water. As in the painting, the city is made of three distinct horizontal strips: water, city, and sky, which is evident in every photo frame. It’s picture-perfect!

What to see

A DIY walking tour is as follows: Start from Delft Station, pass Museum Prinsenhof (a 16th-century convent, now a museum, open 11 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday; closed on Mondays), see Molen de Roos (a windmill museum), visit Oude Kerk (“Old Church,” a Gothic masterpiece housing notable historical artefacts, open 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Saturday, and 11 AM to 4 PM from November to January), go to Vermeer Centrum (a museum displaying Vermeer’s work, though not “The Girl with the Pearl Earring”, which is in the Mauritshuis, Vermeer is open 10 AM to 5 PM daily, with free guided tours on Sundays at 10:30 AM), visit Markt-Central Square, Nieuwe Kerk (“New Church,” where members of the Dutch royal family are entombed), and Oostpoort (the symbol of Delft), finally ending at the Royal Delft Factory to see Delftware pottery. From there, walk back to the station.

You can also avail fantastic walking tours of Delft which I couldn’t take because of shortage of time, but it is easy and pleasant to walk around, even in a slight drizzle.

The highlights of Delft for me were –

Oude Kerk

Oude Kerk, or the Old Church, is the oldest in Delft, dating back to the 13th century. The Gothic Protestant church displays impressive architecture, characterized by pointed arches and detailed stone carvings. But the church’s most notable feature is its 75-meter-high brick tower that leans about two meters from the vertical. This tilt is a result of the church being built on wooden pilings in marshy ground, causing some subsidence over the centuries. It makes for a stunning photo from the other end of the canal! The interior of Oude Kerk is adorned with impressive stained glass windows, a notable pipe organ, and various artworks, sculptures, and religious decorations. About 400 people are buried in Oude Kerk.

Markt-Central Square and Nieuwe Kerk

Markt is the central square in Delft and is surrounded by picturesque buildings and Nieuwe Kerk, or the new church. It is a hub of activity, home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Despite its name, Nieuwe Kerk is not exactly new, as it dates back to the 14th century. The church is known for its imposing Gothic architecture and its role as the final resting place of members of the Dutch royal family, including William of Orange, a key figure in Dutch history. Together, Markt and Nieuwe Kerk contribute to the charm of Delft’s city centre. The square often hosts events and markets, and visitors can climb the tower of Nieuwe Kerk for panoramic views of the city.

Royal Delft Museum

For visiting hours and admission fees, go here.

The Royal Delft Blue Museum is about a 15-minute walk from the Delft Central train station, a 20-minute walk from Markt-Central Square and is located at 40 Molenstraat. The museum showcases the history of Delftware earthenware, including the famous Delft Blue pottery. Explore the museum’s exhibits to learn about the craftsmanship and artistry behind these iconic blue and white earthenware, as well as the rich history of the Royal Delft factory. They offer a charming café named Brasserie-1653 where you can relax afterward.

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Rotterdam

Delft to Rotterdam is a 15-20 min train ride. From Amsterdam to Rotterdam by train takes an hour.

About

Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and is a major European port situated in the south of the Netherlands. Its strategic location near the North Sea has made it a vital hub for international trade and logistics. It has a population of approximately 650,000. Key attractions in Rotterdam include the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen), an iconic example of avant-garde architecture, and the Erasmus Bridge, an elegant cable-stayed bridge spanning the Maas River. The city also boasts Kunsthal, a renowned art museum showcasing diverse exhibitions.

Rotterdam was seriously cool. It had this wild, eclectic vibe—buildings all over the place, yet somehow they worked together. It reminded me of my house, filled with random mementoes from all over the world. Nothing really matches, but somehow it all makes sense, like a collection of my life’s experiences coming together in the weirdest way possible.

I think Rotterdam exhibits why diversity is cool and much needed.

What to see

Rotterdam Centraal

Rotterdam Centraal is the main railway station in Rotterdam. It is a bustling central station with a unique architecture. Its roof is especially impressive. Architect Jan Benthem designed the roof, a transparent structure covering the platforms, its undulating shape and glass signifying openness. In front of the Rotterdam Station, the bronze statue “Moments Contained” by British sculptor Thomas Price depicts an everyday black woman in tracksuit bottoms and trainers. It symbolizes Rotterdam’s diversity, as over half of the city’s multicultural population has migrant origins.

Erasmus Bridge

The Erasmus Bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas River and is often considered a symbol of Rotterdam. The bridge is a cable-stayed structure, with a single 139-meter-high pylon supporting its cables. In addition to vehicular traffic, the bridge accommodates pedestrians and cyclists, providing a scenic pathway to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the river. It looks particularly stunning at night.

Kubuswoningen

The Cube Houses are the enduring symbols of Rotterdam. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, the houses are tilted and stacked cube-shaped residential structures, elevated on pylons. Each cube represents a tree, and collectively, the group of cubes forms a “forest.” The idea behind the design is to provide a sense of community within an urban environment. They make for great photo ops! One Cube House is designated as a “Museum House” or “Kijkwoning.” This unit serves as a showcase to demonstrate how unconventional interior spaces can be utilized for practical living. The Stayokay Hostel is among the cube houses, and you can stay here to experience what living in one of them is like.

Markthal

Minutes away from the Cube Houses, is the main market square of Rotterdam. It features a unique horseshoe-shaped design, made of a combination of glass and natural stone. Inside the arch, the ceiling is adorned with the largest artwork in the world, known as the “Horn of Plenty” or “Hoorn des Overvloeds.” Markthal houses an array of market stalls, offering a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and international cuisine. Above the market stalls, there are residential apartments! Markthal is noisy, happening, and is the beating pulse of Rotterdam. Plan to be here for lunch or an early dinner. Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sunday, Noon – 6:00 p.m.

Van Nelle Fabriek

Built between 1925 and 1931, the Van Nelle Fabriek is a masterpiece of modernist industrial architecture. In 2014, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and architectural significance. It is acknowledged as an exemplary representation of early 20th-century industrial architecture. The complex integrates natural light, ventilation, and open spaces, reflecting the principles of the Modern Movement.

Kinderdijk

Near Rotterdam, you’ll find Unesco World Heritage Kinderdijk with 19 windmills from the 18th century. The Waterbus is the fastest way to reach Kinderdijk in less than 30 minutes. View the different routes from Rotterdam here.

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A 3 Day Efficient Itinerary for the Netherlands | Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft and more

Day 3: Gouda and The Hague

Gouda is 45 minutes away by train from The Hague.

Gouda

About

Gouda, a charming city in the South Holland province of the Netherlands, is known globally for its iconic cheese. You must have heard about it?! However, the city itself is quite cute. Gouda has a population of about 73,000 and is situated along the banks of the Gouwe River. Its buildings showcase a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the city is easily navigable. Expectedly, the city’s economy revolves around the cheese industry. The weekly cheese market, held from April to August, is a notable attraction where visitors can witness the centuries-old tradition of cheese weighing and trading.

What to see

Gouda’s landmarks include the Stadhuis (City Hall), a Gothic masterpiece with stained glass windows, the Sint Janskerk, a stunning church known for its large collection of 16th-century stained glass, and De Goudse Waag, where cheese has been weighed and traded for centuries, all located at Markt Square in Gouda’s city centre. The city’s compact size and well-preserved historical sites contribute to its unique charm.

A Gouda tour takes you through Stadhuis Gouda (City Hall), Waag (Weighing House), Turfmarkt, and Museum Gouda. Thursdays in summer buzz with excitement as the Gouda cheese market takes centre stage, drawing crowds to the city. The timings for the Gouda cheese market are Thursday mornings 10 AM till 12:30 PM from April to August.

A good experience is to tour the Kamphuisen Syrup Waffle Factory (Open 10 AM to 6 PM daily, closed on Sundays) and do the Gouda Cheese Experience (10 AM to 5 PM, open all days). With a Gouda Experience combination ticket (€ 25.00 p.p.) you can experience both the Syrup Waffle Factory and the Gouda Cheese Experience. Gouda is also a historic producer of beer and you can stop at Stadsbrouwerij de Goudsche Leeuw to learn more about it.

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The Hague

About

The Hague is the Netherland’s third-largest city. With a population of around 550,000, it serves as the seat of the Dutch government and is an international hub for diplomacy. Prominent landmarks in The Hague include the Binnenhof, a historic government complex, and the Peace Palace, an iconic symbol of international peace and justice. Visitors can explore the Mauritshuis, an art museum displaying Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. Local cuisine in The Hague features specialities like haring (raw herring fish), stroopwafels (thin waffle cookies with caramel syrup), and patat met (thick-cut fries with various toppings). Geographically, it lies along the North Sea coast, featuring a maritime climate.

What to see

Peace Palace

The Peace Palace in The Hague is an international legal institution that houses the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), the Hague Academy of International Law, and the Peace Palace Library. Constructed in 1913, it serves as a venue for the peaceful settlement of international disputes and the advancement of international law. The building’s architectural style is neoclassical and it was a gift from American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The Peace Palace is an iconic symbol of the city’s role in promoting peace and justice at the global level.

Peace Palace can be toured only through a guided tour. They were not running when I visited. However, the Visitor Centre allows a free orientation tour which was informative and enlightening. Headphones are given free of cost.  The Visitors Centre is open from Wednesday to Sunday, from 12:00 to 16:00. You do not need a reservation.

The Hague City Centre

The Hague City Centre is the central area of The Hague, Netherlands. It serves as the heart of the city, featuring a mix of historical and modern elements. The city centre is known for its diverse range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Key landmarks in The Hague City Centre include the Binnenhof, which is the political centre of the Netherlands and houses the Dutch Parliament, and the Mauritshuis, an art museum known for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” Visitors to The Hague City Centre can explore the charming streets, visit museums, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this urban hub. The area reflects the city’s rich history and its contemporary role as a political and cultural centre.

The Mauritshuis

The Mauritshuis is a beautiful tiny art museum in The Hague, famed for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, particularly from the 17th century (“The Golden Period”). The building is stunning, with rich red walls and resplendent lighting; intimate yet lustrous. It made me feel all warm inside. Except that the chandeliers’ reflections ruined the photos I took.

Notable works housed in the Mauritshuis include Johannes Vermeer’s famous paintings “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and “View of Delft.” Other masterpieces (featured in the picture below) are “The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp” by Rembrandt van Rijn, “The Goldfinch” by Carel Fabritius, “The Bull” by Paulus Potter, and Apelles Painting Campaspe (1630), by Willem van Haecht. The museum houses 200 paintings in all, including several notable Rembrandts.

The Mauritshuis provides visitors with a compact yet rich art experience. It was worth the € 19.50 I paid. I much prefer the intimacy of smaller museums to large overwhelming ones. There is a free cloakroom service for big bags. Water and food are not allowed inside. We don’t want these masterpieces attacked by climate fanatics now, do we?

Madurodam

I had been dreaming about visiting Madurodam which essentially houses famous Dutch landmarks in miniature replicas (1:25 scale model). Madurodam (isn’t the name cute too?) was named after George Maduro, a Dutch law student from Curaçao who fought the Nazi occupation forces. The park aims to show a realistic view of the Netherlands in a scaled-down environment. Everything, including gardens and trees, is modelled to scale. There is also a  3D selfie photo booth where visitors can have 3D models of themselves created by software from pictures taken in the photo booth. It is a fascinating visit, especially for children. Tickets € 22.50 online and € 24.50 at the counter. You could pair the visit with the Peace Palace as they are not far from one another (a 25-minute walk).

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Optional: Utrecht

You can also swing by Utrecht if you have the time and energy. Utrecht is located in the central part of the Netherlands. With a population of around 360,000, it stands as the fourth-largest city in the country. Situated along the banks of the Rhine River, Utrecht is characterized by its picturesque canals and medieval architecture. The city’s economy is diverse, encompassing sectors such as finance, education, and healthcare. Key landmarks in Utrecht include the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, and the historic Dom Square, surrounded by charming cafes and shops. The city is also home to the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing modernist architecture.

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—There are a few good tours that show these cities—

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—Plenty of tours offer easy ways to see The Netherlands—

Where to next? Berlin is an easy 6-hour train ride from Amsterdam. Or head to Prague or Krakow.