8 day itinerary for Netherlands

Itinerary

An 8-day trip to the Netherlands sounds fantastic, especially with your siblings. The country is rich in culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and relaxed itinerary that balances sightseeing, leisure, and some local experiences, perfect for a group in their 60s.

## Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam

• Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the Jordaan district. This charming neighborhood is filled with narrow streets, quaint shops, and lovely canals. Stop for lunch at a cozy café.
• Evening: Enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant. Try some local dishes like stamppot or haring.

## Day 2: Amsterdam Highlights

• Morning: Visit the Rijksmuseum to see masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. The museum is spacious, so take your time!
• Afternoon: Head to the Van Gogh Museum to admire the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works. Afterward, relax in Vondelpark with a coffee or ice cream.
• Evening: Take a scenic canal cruise to see the city from the water. It’s a lovely way to unwind and enjoy the views.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village known for its windmills and traditional Dutch houses. Explore the area and visit a cheese factory.
• Afternoon: Continue to Volendam, a charming fishing village. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the harbor and stroll along the waterfront. Don’t forget to try some fresh seafood!
• Evening: Return to Amsterdam and have a relaxed dinner at a local bistro.

## Day 4: Utrecht

• Morning: Travel to Utrecht (about 30 minutes by train). Visit the Dom Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Oude Gracht (Old Canal) and enjoy lunch at one of the canal-side cafes. Visit the Centraal Museum for a taste of local art and history.
• Evening: Head back to Amsterdam and enjoy a quiet evening, perhaps with a stroll through the Nine Streets for some shopping.

## Day 5: Haarlem and Keukenhof (if in season)

• Morning: Take a train to Haarlem. Visit the Frans Hals Museum and explore the charming streets.
• Afternoon: If you’re visiting in spring (mid-March to mid-May), take a trip to Keukenhof Gardens to see the stunning tulip displays. If not, enjoy lunch in Haarlem and visit the Teylers Museum.
• Evening: Return to Amsterdam for dinner. Consider a restaurant with a view of the canals.

## Day 6: The Hague and Delft

• Morning: Travel to The Hague. Visit the Mauritshuis to see Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and other masterpieces.
• Afternoon: Head to Delft, famous for its blue pottery. Explore the town and have lunch at a local café. Visit the Royal Delft factory for a tour.
• Evening: Return to The Hague for dinner, perhaps trying some local seafood dishes.

## Day 7: Rotterdam

• Morning: Take a train to Rotterdam. Explore the modern architecture, including the Cube Houses and the Markthal.
• Afternoon: Visit the Kunsthal or the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum. Enjoy lunch at the Markthal, where you can sample various local foods.
• Evening: Head back to Amsterdam. For your last night, consider a special dinner at a nice restaurant to celebrate your trip!

## Day 8: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a last stroll through the city. Visit a local market or shop for souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours of museums and attractions in advance.
• Consider purchasing an I Amsterdam Card for free entry to many attractions and unlimited public transport.
• Take it easy and enjoy the local pace of life. The Netherlands is all about enjoying the moment!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful time exploring the Netherlands with your siblings! Let me know if you need any more details or adjustments! 🌷🚲