Eco-Friendly Day Trips from Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a gateway to the Netherlands' beauty and culture. While many visitors opt to rent a car, public transportation provides a greener way to travel. The comprehensive Dutch railway system makes getting around easy and sustainable.

The Netherlands is renowned worldwide as a pioneer of eco-friendly transportation. With its extensive train network and cycling infrastructure, the country makes navigating sustainably easy and enjoyable.

If you are visiting Amsterdam and want to escape the urban hustle and bustle for a day and immerse yourself in nature while still maintaining an eco-conscious mindset, the city's surroundings offer a wealth of eco-friendly day trip options that allow you to do just that. Opting for bike and train travel while visiting Amsterdam and beyond allows you to explore the Netherlands' beauty in a way that also preserves it for future generations.

The Dutch rail system provides an affordable, efficient, and low-carbon way to travel between cities and towns. And cycling paths across the country give visitors access to the Netherlands' iconic rural landscapes. By choosing biking and public transport over cars, you can do your part to reduce emissions and plastic pollution. Join the Dutch in leading the way toward eco-friendly travel.

Read on for the top sustainable day trips from Amsterdam by bike and train.

Haarlem’s historic architecture and cozy canals earn it the nickname “Little Amsterdam.” This medieval city offers big charm without overwhelming crowds. Its pedestrian-friendly streets encourage wandering by foot or bike. And at just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, it’s the ultimate easy day trip!

After exploring Haarlem, head to the breathtaking sand dunes of Kennemerland National Park. Here you can stroll boardwalks overlooking golden beaches, hike through pine forests, and see egrets and herons in a protected wetland. Rent a bike or walk from the train station to reduce your impact.

Every Friday morning, Alkmaar hosts a traditional cheese market in its main square. Vendors in colorful costumes weigh wheels of cheese on old scales. Explore the city’s Dutch Renaissance buildings before catching the efficient train back to Amsterdam.

This quintessential Dutch town is renowned for its handmade blue and white porcelain. At Royal Delft, watch artists craft pottery using centuries-old techniques. Then admire Delft’s picturesque waterways, bridges, and rows of brick townhouses. Just an hour by train, it’s easy to add Delft to your itinerary.

Each spring, vibrant tulips burst into bloom, blanketing the Dutch countryside in dazzling color. The cycling routes between fields outside Amsterdam offer front-row views of this spectacular seasonal display. Time your Amsterdam trip in April to see the flowers at their peak.

Escape to the breathtaking landscapes of Hoge Veluwe National Park, located just a couple of hours away from Amsterdam. Rent a bike or explore on foot through the park's diverse ecosystems, including forests, heathlands, and sand dunes. The park also boasts the iconic Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and sculptures, making it a perfect blend of culture and nature. Embrace sustainability by following marked trails, reducing waste, and respecting the flora and fauna.

No trip to the Netherlands is complete without visiting windmills. Zaanse Schans, a living museum near Amsterdam, offers a glimpse into the country's rich history of windmill engineering. Opt for a guided tour that highlights the sustainable energy practices that powered these historic structures. You can also learn about traditional crafts and sample local organic products at the open-air museum.

For a more laid-back eco-friendly day trip, head to Zandvoort Beach. Take the train to minimize your carbon footprint and spend the day relaxing by the North Sea. Engage in beach clean-up initiatives and support local businesses that prioritize sustainability in their operations. Enjoy a swim, take a stroll through the dunes, and relish in the calming sound of the waves.

The Netherlands’ extensive rail network makes navigating the country sustainably a breeze. So skip the car, have your public transit passes ready, and let the train transport you to discover the very best of Holland!