Rotterdam is a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and history, but it also serves as the perfect base for exploring some of the Netherlands’ most picturesque destinations. During my recent visit, I decided to rent a car and venture out on day trips to experience the diverse landscapes and charming towns nearby. With a car at my disposal, I was free to explore at my own pace and make spontaneous stops along the way.
1. Kinderdijk: Windmills and Waterways
My first day trip was to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just about 30 minutes from Rotterdam. Renowned for its iconic windmills, Kinderdijk is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the quintessential Dutch landscape. The journey was smooth, and I enjoyed the scenic drive through green fields and quaint villages.
Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the sight of the 19 windmills, standing tall against the backdrop of lush fields. I parked my car in the designated area and set off on foot to explore the site. A walking or cycling path runs along the canals, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the windmills up close.
I started my day by visiting the Kinderdijk visitor center, where I learned about the history of these remarkable structures and their role in Dutch water management. I opted for a guided tour of one of the windmills, which provided fascinating insights into how the millers lived and worked. As I climbed the narrow, winding stairs to the top, I could feel the history enveloping me.
After my tour, I strolled along the canal, taking photos and admiring the surrounding scenery. I even had the chance to chat with a friendly local who offered to take my picture against the backdrop of the windmills. Before heading back, I stopped by a charming café nearby for a traditional Dutch treat: a stroopwafel. The warm, syrup-filled waffle was the perfect way to end my visit.
Location: Kinderdijk is approximately 15 km east of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Delft: A Blend of History and Charm
My next stop was Delft, a picturesque city known for its blue pottery and rich history. The drive took about 20 minutes, and as I entered Delft, I was captivated by its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. I found parking conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to explore on foot.
Delft’s main attraction is the Nieuwe Kerk, or New Church, which dominates the city’s skyline. I decided to climb the church tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The climb was challenging but worth every step. Once at the top, I was rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Delft’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside.
After descending, I wandered through the cobblestone streets, admiring the charming architecture. I stumbled upon a quaint little shop selling Delftware—the iconic blue-and-white pottery that the city is famous for. I couldn’t resist picking up a small vase as a souvenir.
For lunch, I found a lovely café along the canal, where I ordered a hearty Dutch pancake topped with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. Sitting by the water, I enjoyed the view while savoring each bite. Post-lunch, I visited the Vermeer Centrum to learn more about the famous painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in Delft. The exhibition featured detailed insights into his life and work.
As I wrapped up my day in Delft, I felt a sense of tranquility. The blend of history, art, and charming scenery made it a delightful destination.
Location: Delft is approximately 10 km northwest of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Plan to spend a few hours exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying a leisurely lunch.
3. The Hague: Politics and Culture
Just a short drive from Delft lies The Hague, the political heart of the Netherlands. It took me about 20 minutes to reach the city, and I was excited to explore its cultural landmarks. After finding parking, I headed to the Mauritshuis, home to an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring.
Walking through the museum, I was in awe of the masterpieces surrounding me. Each painting told a story, and I found myself captivated by the details. The Mauritshuis is relatively small, so it didn’t take long to navigate, but I lingered at each artwork to soak in the beauty.
After my cultural fix, I headed to the Binnenhof, the Dutch parliament complex. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a great spot for photos. I took a leisurely stroll around the grounds, imagining the political discussions that have taken place there over the centuries.
Feeling peckish, I searched for a cozy lunch spot and found a delightful café nearby, where I enjoyed a broodje (a Dutch sandwich) with smoked salmon and cream cheese. The café had a lovely outdoor seating area, so I took advantage of the nice weather.
Before leaving The Hague, I decided to visit the Scheveningen Beach, just a short drive away. The beach was bustling with activity—people sunbathing, others playing beach volleyball, and the iconic pier in the background. I took a leisurely walk along the shore, the sound of waves crashing against the sand was incredibly relaxing.
Location: The Hague is approximately 20 km northwest of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Dedicate a full day to explore both cultural and coastal attractions.
4. Gouda: Cheese and Candles
On my fourth day trip, I drove to Gouda, a town famous for its cheese, located about 30 minutes from Rotterdam. Upon arrival, I was greeted by picturesque streets lined with historic buildings and canals. I found parking easily and headed straight to the Gouda Cheese Market, which is held every Thursday morning.
Although I had missed the market (it’s seasonal and only operates during summer), I was still excited to explore the local cheese shops. I visited Kaashandel D. de Groot, a charming cheese shop where I sampled various types of Gouda. The shop owner was friendly and knowledgeable, explaining the differences in flavor between young and aged Gouda. I ended up purchasing a wedge of aged Gouda to take home.
After indulging in cheese, I wandered to the Gouda Stadhuis (Town Hall), an architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 15th century. The intricate details of the façade are impressive, and the square in front of it is lively with cafés and shops.
Feeling hungry, I searched for a spot to grab lunch and found a cozy bistro called De Zalm. I ordered a classic Gouda cheese sandwich, which was deliciously gooey and satisfying. The atmosphere was warm, and I enjoyed chatting with the locals who frequented the place.
After lunch, I visited the Gouda Waag, a former weighing house, which now serves as a museum dedicated to the history of cheese production. I learned a lot about the cheese trade and the importance of Gouda in Dutch culture.
Location: Gouda is approximately 25 km northeast of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Visit on a Thursday to experience the cheese market and plan to spend a few hours exploring the town.
5. Keukenhof: A Flower Paradise (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting during spring, a trip to Keukenhof is a must! This stunning garden, located about 40 minutes from Rotterdam, is home to millions of blooming tulips and is a celebration of Dutch horticulture. I visited in April, just in time to witness the flowers in full bloom.
As I arrived, I was greeted by a sea of colors—vibrant reds, yellows, and purples enveloped the landscape. The gardens are massive, covering over 79 acres, and there are numerous walking paths to explore. I took my time strolling through the flower displays, each more breathtaking than the last.
One of my favorite spots was the windmill overlooking the tulip fields. I climbed to the top for an aerial view, which was simply stunning. I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment.
In addition to the flowers, Keukenhof features various pavilions showcasing art, floral arrangements, and gardening techniques. I attended a floral workshop where I learned how to create my own bouquet—a fun and hands-on experience!
After a few hours exploring, I stopped at one of the garden’s cafés for a quick bite. I tried the local delicacy, Dutch poffertjes—small, fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter. It was the perfect treat after a long day of walking.
Location: Keukenhof is located in Lisse, about 40 km northwest of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Plan your visit between mid-March and mid-May to experience the tulip season.
6. Rotterdam to Amsterdam: A Day in the Capital
My final day trip was a bit more ambitious: a visit to Amsterdam, approximately an hour and a half drive from Rotterdam. I woke up early, excited to explore the capital city known for its iconic canals, museums, and vibrant culture.
Upon arriving, I parked near the Rijksmuseum, where I began my day of exploration. The museum is vast, housing an extensive collection of Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. I spent hours marveling at the art, losing myself in the stories behind each piece.
After the museum, I headed to the nearby Vondelpark for a leisurely stroll.
The park was bustling with locals enjoying the sunny day, and I found a quiet bench to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Feeling energized, I made my way to Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam. The energy here was palpable, with street performers, tourists, and locals mingling. I stopped at a food stall to try a traditional Haring, raw herring fish served with onions and pickles. It was surprisingly delicious and a quintessential Amsterdam experience.
I ended my day with a scenic canal cruise, which provided a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and history. As the sun set, the canals illuminated, casting a magical glow over the city. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable trip.
Location: Amsterdam is approximately 75 km northeast of Rotterdam.
Recommendation: Start early to make the most of your day, as there are plenty of attractions to explore.
Renting a car in Rotterdam opened up a world of possibilities for day trips to some of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in the Netherlands. From the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk to the colorful tulip fields of Keukenhof and the vibrant streets of Amsterdam, each destination offered a unique experience that added to my travel adventure.
