3 day itinerary for The Netherlands

Itinerary

A three-day trip to the Netherlands can be a delightful experience, and I’m here to help you make the most of it while keeping it budget-friendly. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and a bit of local charm!

## Day 1: Amsterdam – The Heart of the Netherlands

Morning:

• Arrival in Amsterdam: Start your day early! If you’re flying in, take the train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station; it’s quick and affordable.
• Breakfast: Grab a cheap but delicious breakfast at a local bakery. Try a “broodje” (sandwich) or a “stroopwafel” (a sweet syrup waffle) with coffee.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore the Canals: Take a stroll along the iconic canals. The Jordaan district is particularly charming and free to explore. Snap some photos of the picturesque houses!

Lunch:

• Street Food: Head to the Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp for some affordable street food. Try “haring” (raw herring) or a “kroket” (a Dutch croquette) from a local vendor.

Afternoon:

• Free Museums: Visit the Rijksmuseum Gardens (free entry) and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you’re an art lover, consider the Van Gogh Museum, but keep in mind it has an entry fee.

Evening:

• Dinner: Find a cozy eatery in the city center. Look for “eetcafés” that offer traditional Dutch meals at reasonable prices.
• Night Walk: Take a leisurely walk through the Red Light District. It’s safe and offers a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s culture.

## Day 2: Day Trip to Utrecht

Morning:

• Travel to Utrecht: Take a train from Amsterdam to Utrecht (about 30 minutes). Trains are frequent and affordable.
• Breakfast: Grab a coffee and pastry at a local café near the station.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore the Canals: Utrecht has beautiful canals with wharfs. Walk along the Oudegracht and enjoy the unique architecture.

Lunch:

• Local Delicacies: Try a “Utrechtsche” lunch at a café along the canals. Look for budget-friendly options like sandwiches or salads.

Afternoon:

• Dom Tower: Climb the Dom Tower for stunning views of the city (there’s a small fee, but it’s worth it!). If you prefer to save, just enjoy the view from the ground.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to Amsterdam and find a local “pancake house” for a budget-friendly dinner. Dutch pancakes are delicious and filling!
• Evening Stroll: Enjoy a walk through Vondelpark, a lovely spot to unwind after a busy day.

## Day 3: Haarlem and the Coast

Morning:

• Travel to Haarlem: Take a short train ride (about 15 minutes) to Haarlem. It’s a charming city with a rich history.
• Breakfast: Stop by a local bakery for a “gevulde koek” (filled cookie) and coffee.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore the City: Visit the Grote Markt and the stunning St. Bavo’s Church. The entrance is free, and the architecture is breathtaking!

Lunch:

• Local Lunch: Try a local café for a budget-friendly lunch. Look for “broodjes” or a simple salad.

Afternoon:

• Beach Time: Take a bus or train to Zandvoort (about 30 minutes) for some beach time. Enjoy the sandy shores and maybe a dip in the North Sea if the weather permits!

Evening:

• Dinner: Grab a casual dinner at a beachside café. Fish and chips are a great option and usually affordable.
• Return to Amsterdam: Head back to Amsterdam for your last night. If you have time, enjoy a drink at a local bar or café.

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Public Transport: Use trains and trams; they’re efficient and relatively cheap. Consider getting an OV-chipkaart for easy travel.
• Free Attractions: Many parks, markets, and neighborhoods are free to explore. Take advantage of these!
• Eat Local: Look for local eateries and street food to save on meals.

And there you have it! A fun, budget-friendly three-day itinerary in the Netherlands. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌷🚲