Travel
6 of the perfect day journeys from Amsterdam
Because of the Netherlands‘ compact dimension and excellent transport hyperlinks, guests to Amsterdam are spoiled for day journey selections that complement a metropolis break within the Dutch capital.
Den Haag’s standout museums, Zandvoort’s sandy seashores and Zaanse Schans’ working windmills are simply a few of the simple day journeys which might be inside an hour’s journey of Amsterdam.
1. Be enchanted by the Golden Age glory of Delft
Journey time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Fanning out round Delft’s monumental market square, the town’s enchanting, canal-woven core has scarcely modified since Johannes Vermeer (of Woman with a Pearl Earring fame) lived and painted right here throughout the Golden Age. Though the town would not have any of his unique works, reproductions are displayed on the Vermeer Centrum Delft.
You may also see the painter’s ultimate resting place contained in the Thirteenth-century Oude Kerk church, nicknamed “Scheve Jan” (“Leaning John”) attributable to its sloping tower. In distinction, the town’s “new church,” the Nieuwe Kerk, was constructed between 1381 and 1655 – climbing its tower’s 376 steps rewards with spectacular views.
Delft can also be recognized for its blue-and-white-painted porcelain. You possibly can tour Delftware factories, such because the famend Royal Delft, which runs workshops the place you get to color your personal tiles and different earthenware.
How one can get to Delft from Amsterdam: Delft is southwest of Amsterdam and takes round an hour to succeed in by automotive. Direct trains run from Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 45 minutes) and Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: one hour) to Delft.
2. Expertise metropolis and seashore on a day journey to Haarlem and Zandvoort
Journey time: 20 to 35 minutes
Solely 20km (12 miles) from Amsterdam, medieval Haarlem stays a very unbiased metropolis. Its tangle of cobbled streets heart on its vigorous Grote Markt, ignored by the Grote Kerk van St Bavo. This Gothic church, topped by a 50m-high (164ft) steeple, homes one of many world’s best organs – the ivories of which had been as soon as tickled by a 10-year-old Mozart. Free recitals normally happen on Tuesday evenings and Thursday afternoons.
Stretching between Haarlem and coastal sand dunes is Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, dwelling to pink foxes, fallow deer and quite a few hen species. Simply past is the busy seaside resort of Zandvoort (aka “Amsterdam Seaside”), a well-liked spot to absorb the solar on summer time days. Public transport runs from Haarlem, however probably the most gratifying option to discover each the park and the shoreline is by commonplace or electrical bike.
How one can get to Haarlem from Amsterdam: Haarlem is west of Amsterdam, and the journey time by automotive is 35 minutes. Alternatively, guests can take the Sprinter prepare from Amsterdam Centraal to Haarlem, which takes round 20 minutes.
3. Get a tradition repair in Leiden, birthplace of Rembrandt
Journey time: half-hour to 1 hour
Laced by canals lined with gabled Seventeenth-century buildings and crisscrossed by bridges, the vigorous metropolis of Leiden is a superb place to get your tradition repair. Town is dwelling to the Netherlands’ oldest college, relationship from 1575, and is notable for being the birthplace of Rembrandt. The Museum De Lakenhal, which reopened in 2019 after a shocking renovation and growth, shows lots of the painter’s well-known works, corresponding to The Spectacles Pedlar, alongside quite a few different Dutch masters.
Elsewhere, the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden harbors historic Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Etruscan artifacts, whereas the Museum Volkenkunde is devoted to ethnology, with cultural treasures from across the globe that inform tales about humanity’s shared existence.
As soon as you have had your tradition repair on the museums and galleries, head to the gorgeous Hortus Botanicus Leiden, one of many oldest botanical gardens in Europe, the place you’ll be able to spy (and odor) colourful blooms from internationally.
How one can get to Leiden from Amsterdam: Leiden is southwest of Amsterdam and takes round an hour to succeed in by automotive. Trains run from Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: half-hour) and Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 23 minutes) to Leiden Centraal station.
4. Zaanse Schans is a superb day journey for households with younger youngsters
Journey time: 15 to 25 minutes
A day at Zaanse Schans offers good, healthful enjoyable for all ages, however younger travelers particularly will get pleasure from seeing the creaking sails of its six genuine windmills in motion – making this a prime day journey alternative for households. This partaking attraction additionally boasts a recreated Seventeenth-century village made up of conventional buildings introduced right here from across the Netherlands, together with a clog manufacturing unit, cheesemaker and a pewter-smith. The close by Zaans Museum delves into the historical past of the Netherlands’ earliest mills. After your go to, you’ll be able to take a shortcut again to the station through a five-minute riverboat journey.
How one can get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans is situated to the north of Amsterdam, roughly 25 minutes away by automotive. Alternatively, catch the Sprinter prepare from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans (journey time: 12 minutes) and stroll 1.5km (one mile) to Zaanse Schans. In the course of the summer time months, you too can journey between Amsterdam and Zaanse Schans by ferry.
5. Discover the royal connections of Den Haag (The Hague)
Journey time: 45 minutes
Whereas Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital, Den Haag (The Hague), formally generally known as ‘s-Gravenhage (the Depend’s Hedge), is the Dutch seat of presidency and the royal household. Set on the shimmering Hofvijver lake, the Binnenhof advanced is the world’s oldest parliament constructing nonetheless in use at present. Its Thirteenth-century Ridderzaal is dwelling to the throne from the place the Dutch monarch addresses the higher and decrease homes annually.
For extra royalty-tinged thrills, head to the Mauritshuis, the place works by the Dutch masters type the idea of the 800-strong Royal Image Assortment. You may also drop into former royal palace Lange Voorhout, which now homes the Escher in Het Paleis showcasing the unbelievable creations, corresponding to unending staircases, of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Alternatively, spend a sunny afternoon merely holding court docket at one of many metropolis’s quite a few canal-side cafes, the place employees will inevitably deal with you want – you guessed it – royalty.
How one can get to Den Haag from Amsterdam: Den Haag is situated southwest of Amsterdam and takes round an hour to succeed in by automotive. Trains journey to Den Haag Centraal from Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: 45 minutes) and Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: 38 minutes). Den Haag can also be nicely related to Delft and Rotterdam.
6. Tour the modern structure of Rotterdam
Journey time: 1 hour
In stark distinction to the Netherlands’ historic cities, Rotterdam was flattened throughout WWII, and its inspirational restoration reworked it right into a veritable gallery of recent and modern structure. Standouts embody the Overblaak Development, with its pencil-shaped tower and “forest” of elevated, crazily-angled dice homes (one among which is a museum revealing what life inside is like); the bowl-shaped Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, with a mirrored exterior and a inexperienced rooftop restaurant; and the horseshoe-shaped Markthal, an unlimited, lined meals market with sit-down eateries beneath a curvilinear ceiling lined in outsized fruit-and-vegetable murals, which makes an eye-popping cease for lunch.
A good way to get a really feel for the town is to take a water taxi: there are 50 docks across the metropolis. For devoted structure excursions, De Rotterdam Tours or Urban Guides are glorious.
How one can get to Rotterdam from Amsterdam: Rotterdam is south of Amsterdam and takes simply over an hour to succeed in by automotive. Quick Intercity Direct trains join Amsterdam Zuid (journey time: one hour) and Amsterdam Sloterdijk (journey time: one hour and 10 minutes) with Rotterdam’s Centraal Station. Rotterdam can also be immediately related to Delft and Den Haag.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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