You could stay in Amsterdam for days, do walking tours, wander around all the famous neighborhoods the city has to offer, and visit a variety of museums, but you will miss one thing. The true Dutch culture. Despite its Dutch beauty and history, Amsterdam has become a big tourist hub over the past decades, and that is why I recommend visiting one of its beautiful neighboring little towns, to get the real Dutch experience. All within a 30-minute bus/train ride, these towns are easy to get to, and you won’t have to spend a whole day visiting them, although you might see yourself hanging out on one of the beautiful terraces you will find everywhere for hours.
1. Weesp
As soon as you step foot in this charming, medieval town, you will fall in love with it. Situated along the river Vecht and surrounded by its cute canals, this small city can also be referred to as a miniature Amsterdam, but without tourists. As part of the Defense Line of Amsterdam (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Weesp used to be one of the thriving cities protecting Amsterdam from outside invasions, but now it is a relaxed commuting town to the Dutch capital.
When visiting in summer, try to get onto a boat tour on the river Vecht, and for the real adventurers, rent your own little boat! You will find people swimming everywhere, and can either decide to go 30 minutes North towards Muiden or cruise South where you will find the popular local ‘cow beach’, where humans and cows cool down together in the river on the hot days. Otherwise, walk around and get a beer at ‘Wispe’, a local brewery situated in a huge church, have lunch/dinner at one of Weesp’s small restaurants, and do not forget to get some gelato at Nelis, it might be the best you have ever tasted (awarded as best Dutch icecream shop in 2020).
Read more about what to do in Weesp here.
2. Muiden
As a key part of the Defense Line of Amsterdam, Muiden is full of forts, defense structures, and its main pride: Muiden Castle (or Muiderslot in Dutch). This tiny town is also situated along the river Vecht and is a bit smaller than Weesp. However, it is still full of history and definitely worth a visit.
The Muiden castle is a must-visit, this stylish, traditional Dutch castle is now open as a museum and will provide you with all the information you have to know about its history! Most of the older fortresses are also open for visit and it is very recommended if you are into history, in the summer months there even leaves a ferry from Muiden to the fortified island of Pampus, which is fun for both young and old. Next to this, of course, just roam around the center, and you will probably find yourself with a beer and some traditional Dutch ‘bitterballen’ on Ome Ko’s terrace watching the big ‘sluice’ of Muiden and all the beautiful ships passing by.
3. Naarden Vesting
Naarden is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best conserved fortified cities. Many fights have been fought out over it, but the star-shaped double ramparts, surrounded by canals have made it almost impossible to capture this little city.
If you are into history, visit Het Nederlands Vestingmuseum, which will tell you all about Dutch wars and conflicts, and the fortified cities that protected them from it. It is also possible to get onto a little boat tour along the defensive canals, which gives another, beautiful view of the city. Browse around the town and look at the beautiful traditional Dutch architecture, as well as the main church from the 15th century. For a nice dining experience, get underground in Acquavite, a restaurant located in one of the outer ramparts of the city, which brings a unique atmosphere. If you are into wine, do not miss out on Meyers Wines and Bites, which offers a great selection of wines, as well as traditional Dutch ‘borrelhapjes’ (tapas-style bites).
4. Monnickendam
Unlike its twin town Volendam, Monnickendam is mostly skipped by tourists. For me, that is very interesting because it is just as pretty, if not prettier! This true hidden gem used to be one of the main trading hubs in the region, competing with Amsterdam until the 15th century! From the late 16th century on, however, Amsterdam completely took over the trade overseas, and Monnickendam became more of a fishing village, what it’s also known for today.
Walking around in this small town really feels like the perfect getaway from the crowded Amsterdam, it is very quiet, peaceful, yet very beautiful. The 16th-century architecture makes the village very photogenic, and the ever-so-important port now functions as a beautiful marina where you can walk around. If you are in for some exercise and beautiful views, do not hesitate to rent a bike in Amsterdam and bike to Monnickendam, you will cruise through the Dutch fields, and stop in the cute village of Broek in Waterland on the way (the whole ride takes less than an hour).
5. Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
Ouderkerk aan de Amstel (or simply Ouderkerk) is the smallest village on this list, but still amazing to get a glimpse of the Dutch countryside. The town is actually 200 years older than Amsterdam itself and is now mostly a little hub for Dutch boat tourists, who pass by and watch the alluring town from the water.
Also for this village, bike there! It is only 45 minutes along the charming Amstel River right from downtown Amsterdam into Ouderkerk. Get a drink on one of the nice terraces, visit the graceful churches and squares, and don’t miss out on ‘De Zwaan’, the traditional Dutch windmill situated on the side of the river.