Solo-travel hotspots close to home

Why not treat yourself to a solo getaway? The Netherlands is full of places that are perfect for a day or weekend alone. Whether you want to escape for a few hours or get away for a whole weekend, there are plenty of destination you can explore at your own pace, without regard to anyone else.

Why solo travel is so much fun

Solo travel gives you freedom. You decide where to go, how long to stay somewhere and what to do. No compromises, no planning around someone else’s preferences. Just you, your interests and your adventure.

And let’s face it: it’s great to spoil yourself for a change! A nice hotel, that little restaurant you’ve been craving for a while, a museum that interests you, no compromises!

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is perfect for solo travel. The city is compact, easy to navigate and full of things to do.

What to do: Stroll along the canals, visit the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum. Explore the small streets of the Jordaan, eat syrup waffles on a terrace, or rent a bike and explore the area. Amsterdam also has many nice cafes and bars where solo travelers can sit easily without feeling uncomfortable.

Tip: Visit the flower market on the Singel, the only floating flower market in the world.

Maastricht

Maastricht is known for its romantic atmosphere, but that doesn’t have to be just for couples. This is the city to pamper yourself for a change.

What to do: Stroll along the Meuse River, explore the medieval alleys, climb to Mount St. Peter and enjoy the view. Maastricht also has a lively culinary scene. Dine at one of the many restaurants or take a seat on the terrace of Onze Lieve Vrouwenplein. Visit the museum at Vrijthof or enjoy the city’s many galleries.

Tip: Discover the city’s hidden corners by just wandering around or let the walking app Walk the City guide you. Maastricht is small enough not to get lost, but big enough to explore a lot.

Utrecht

Utrecht is a fun, hip city with lots of culture and fun. Perfect for a solo getaway.

What to do: Visit the railroad museum, walk around the Dom, enjoy the street art in different neighborhoods. Utrecht also has many hip cafes, bars and restaurants where you can sit and enjoy solo comfortably. Check out the many art galleries and designer stores in the city.

Tip: Visit the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will fascinate architecture lovers.

The Hague

Combine culture with coastal air in The Hague. This city offers the best of both worlds.

What to do: Visit the Mauritshuis or the Escherm Museum. Take the streetcar to Scheveningen and stroll along the beach, enjoy a fish at a beach pavilion, or relax on the sand. The Hague also has beautiful parks for quiet walks, such as the Haagse Bos.

Tip: Visit the Pier in Scheveningen and enjoy the view of the sea and take a beach walk. Perfect for reflection and enjoying yourself.

Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk, with its unique windmills, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a perfect destination for a solo day trip.

What to do: Explore the famous windmills, walk around the polder and enjoy the unique Dutch architecture. The village has a quiet, serene atmosphere,perfect for solo travel.

Tip: Rent a bike and cycle past all 19 mills. This is a great way to explore the village at your own pace.

Delft

Delft is a charming city with lots of history and stories. Perfect for those who love culture.

What to do: Visit the Vermeer Center and the Royal Delft Museum, stroll along the canals, visit the Markt and the Nieuwe Kerk. Delft breathes history and is beautiful to stroll through. Sit on a terrace on the Markt, the Doelenplein or the Beestenmarkt. Enjoy people-watching and savour the moment.

Tip: Order a dark walk from The Little Walk of Horrors and learn about Delft’s dark history during your visit.

Zandvoort

Sometimes what you need is just sea, sand and silence. Zandvoort offers this perfectly.

What to do: Walk along the beach, swim (season permitting), enjoy a beach pavilion with a nice drink. Zandvoort is close to Amsterdam but feels much looser and more relaxed.

Tip: Go to the beach during sunset. This is a wonderful time to just feel good about yourself and reflect.

Solo travel means you have freedom to change plans. Something doesn’t feel right? Go somewhere else. Do you super like a place? Stay longer! The Netherlands offers so many beautiful places to explore alone, enjoy and really feel good about yourself.

Have fun with your solo adventure!

Credits photos: OpstapmetLisa and Canva