Hey, Lykkers! Are you ready to escape the bustling streets of Amsterdam and uncover the beauty of its charming suburbs?

Today, we’re taking you on a journey through some of the most delightful areas just outside the city, filled with picturesque scenery and unique attractions. Let’s dive in and explore the hidden gems waiting for us in the suburbs!

Discovering Zaanse Schans

Our adventure began in Zaanse Schans, a vibrant neighborhood known for its iconic windmills and traditional Dutch architecture. Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, this picturesque suburb transports us back in time with its charming wooden houses and lush greenery. We strolled along the scenic pathways, taking in the sights and sounds of this beautiful area, and couldn’t resist snapping countless photos of the stunning windmills.

Zaanse Schans is open year-round, with free admission to the area. However, if we want to explore the inside of the windmills or visit the cheese factory, tickets range from €4 to €7. We took a guided tour of one of the operational windmills, where we learned about the history of milling and even witnessed the production of authentic Dutch cheese!

The Beauty of Haarlem

Next, we hopped on a train to the lovely city of Haarlem, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. As we wandered through the charming cobblestone streets, we stumbled upon the stunning Grote Markt, the main square surrounded by beautiful architecture and lively cafes. It was the perfect spot to grab a coffee and indulge in some traditional Dutch apple pie while soaking in the atmosphere.

Haarlem is home to the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, which we found absolutely fascinating. With its collection of art, natural history, and scientific instruments, it’s a treasure trove for curious minds. The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, and ticket prices are €12 for adults and €6 for children, making it an affordable outing for everyone.

Practical Tips for Exploring the Suburbs

When venturing out to the suburbs, it’s essential to plan ahead to make the most of our trip. We found that purchasing an OV-chipkaart (public transportation card) is a convenient way to travel around Amsterdam and its suburbs, allowing us to hop on trains and buses without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to check the schedules for trains and buses, especially if we’re planning to visit multiple suburbs in one day. We discovered that trains from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans and Haarlem run frequently, making it easy to fit in several attractions without feeling rushed.

Where to Stay: Hotel Amadeus

For our stay, we found the charming Hotel Amadeus, located conveniently in Haarlem. This boutique hotel offers a cozy atmosphere and easy access to the city’s attractions. Prices start at around €120 per night, depending on the season, which we thought was reasonable for the comfort and location it provides.

With its warm hospitality and stylish rooms, Hotel Amadeus made for a perfect base as we explored the suburbs. The hotel also offers a delicious breakfast buffet to fuel our adventures each morning, ensuring we started our days off right.

Exploring the suburbs of Amsterdam offers a refreshing escape filled with stunning scenery and rich history. From the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans to the vibrant culture of Haarlem, there’s so much to discover just outside the city. So, pack your bags, Lykkers, and get ready to uncover the hidden treasures of Amsterdam’s charming suburbs!