When we speak about the Netherlands, Amsterdam is usually the first city that comes to people’s minds. However, there’s much more to the Dutch country than its capital. And the best thing is that, on top of being steeped in history, the Netherlands is a small country on the European continent, which makes it very convenient and easy to explore. And what could be better than exploring some of the most historic Dutch small towns, all located within a short distance from the City of Canals? You’ll find out below that nothing beats such a “polder-perfect” journey.
1. Broek in Waterland (7.46 Miles From Amsterdam)
If you want to learn about traditional Dutch life, then this quaint village is the place to be in the Netherlands. Located only about seven and a half miles north of Amsterdam, Broek in Waterland boasts around 2,700 residents. In terms of time, it’s just a 15-minute short drive away from the Dutch capital. The highlights of this peaceful escape are its beautifully preserved wooden houses as well as its charming, tranquil canals.
Wealthy Amsterdam merchants and seafarers started flocking to Broek in Waterland during the 17th and 18th centuries. However, the village itself dates back to the 12th century.
When visiting Broek in Waterland, you’ll have the chance to marvel at the historic centerpiece of the town, Saint Nicholas Church. While this landmark was built before the year 1400, it was destroyed during the Eighty Years’ War. However, the Protestant church was later rebuilt in 1628.
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Broek in Waterland is also famous for its idyllic setting as well as its cleanliness. It is surrounded by meadows and waterways, so you’ll enjoy visiting it if you want to experience the Dutch countryside.
2. Monnickendam (9.32 Miles From Amsterdam)
This small historic Dutch town is also located on the Northern side of the country, just around ten miles northeast of Amsterdam. Monnickendam dates back to the 14th century when it was founded by monks, and its name actually translates to “Monk’s dam.” During its early years, the town became a significant port for fishing and shipbuilding. Today, visitors enjoy coming to Monnickendam for its picturesque beauty and well-preserved architecture.
The 17th-century Weigh House (De Waag) should be at the top of your list when in Monnickendam. The same applies to the Speeltoren, which is a bell tower housing the Netherlands’ oldest playable carillon. Don’t forget to head to the 14th-century Protestant church in town, Grote Kerk, which was later restored after it was damaged in the Eighty Years’ War.
Monnickendam also hosts the annual Monnickendammer Visgaden, which is an event that celebrates the historic fishing industry of the town. During this festival, you can experience traditional fish smoking and other local crafts.
3. Naarden (18.64 Miles From Amsterdam)
Located on the northern side of the Netherlands, this historic town is famous for its star-shaped fortifications. These are considered among the best-preserved in Europe. Naarden’s defenses are surrounded by formidable walls and a moat, which is a unique site to behold and witness with your own eyes 16th-century military architecture.
If you want to learn in more detail about the role of Naarden in Dutch military strategy, then you’ve got to head to the Netherlands Fortress Museum or Nederlands Vestingmuseum, where you will get plenty of knowledge about the town’s rich history. After all, it’s not only in Amsterdam where you can find noteworthy museums.
Another amazing thing to do in Naarden is to try the boat tours around the fortifications. Many of the buildings of the town date back to the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, so you’ll be enjoying sights dating back to hundreds of years ago. Make sure to visit the Grote of Sint-Vituskerk. This historic church is worth the visit only for its iconic painted wooden ceiling. You can also take in a panoramic view of Naarden and its star-shaped layout from atop the church’s tower.
4. Edam (12.43 Miles From Amsterdam)
When you stroll through the historic center of this picturesque Dutch town, you’ll see peaceful canals, monuments, and charming squares that tell stories of the past of Edam. The latter was a key hub for trade in the past, thanks to its ideal location by the water. That’s because ships were able to dock at its ports, which allowed the town to grow as a trading center. The canal-side homes and their grand facades are an iconic example of the wealth that once flowed through the northern Dutch historic town.
The name Edam is synonymous with its world-famous cheese, the round Edam cheese, to be more precise. The traditional cheese market of the town still draws visitors to this day during the months of July and August. It goes without saying that one of the top places that you should add to your bucket list in Edam is the Edam Cheese Museum, where you can learn more about the town’s dairy legacy. It’s easy for you to get to Edam as it’s reachable with an easy 30-minute bus drive from the Dutch capital.
5. Muiden (12.43 Miles From Amsterdam)
Muiderslot, a centuries-old castle, is the main highlight of this historic fortified town located east of Amsterdam. The castle was built in 1285 by Count Floris V and is considered one of the Netherlands’ best-preserved medieval castles. Muiderslot also had a major role in protecting the Dutch capital, particularly during the Dutch Waterline defenses. Today, you can tour the castle (which you should do) and have the chance to marvel at its beautifully restored interiors and gardens.
Another amazing thing to do in Muiden is to take a boat trip to Pampus Island. The latter is a historic quarantine station for ships traveling to Amsterdam. Pampus Island once served as a place where vessels were held before they could enter the city’s main port.
It’s also worth seeing the Great Sea Lock or Groote Zeesluis when you’re in Muiden. This sea lock connects Muiden to the IJmeer river, so this is where you can watch boats passing on the waterways. Also, don’t forget about the Muizenfort, a UNESCO-listed Defense Line of Amsterdam. This is a system of fortifications that was built to protect the Dutch capital.
6. Marken (13.67 Miles From Amsterdam)
This one was a former island in the Zuiderzee, so it was separated from the mainland until a causeway was built in 1957. This was when it got connected to the rest of the Dutch nation. The interesting thing about Marken is its car-free center, filled with traditional wooden houses and clogs displayed outside. The town really resembles something from a storybook.
Due to the fact that this historic Dutch town was isolated for centuries and because of its unique geography, its distinct culture has been preserved to this day. This includes the traditional clothing as well as the architecture of Marken.
One of the essential things you need to do in town is to head to the Marker Museum to learn about the history and lifestyle of the village. The Paard van Marken lighthouse is another landmark worth witnessing. It’s a symbol of Marken’s maritime history. You can easily access this town by bus from Amsterdam. You just need 30 minutes to reach.
7. Weesp (9.32 Miles From Amsterdam)
This town is over 700 years old, and it’s the perfect escape if you’re looking to explore Dutch history and charm. It’s just a short 15-minute ride from Amsterdam and boasts scenic canals, windmills, and neoclassical architecture.
Museum Weesp is housed in the 18th-century town hall and offers you a glimpse into early Iron Age settlements in town as well as Weesp’s contributions to Dutch porcelain and jenever production.
The Wispe Brewery is also a unique attraction that’s worth visiting. This one is set in a historic church and allows you to taste locally brewed beers and dive into the brewing tradition of Weesp.
On top of the scenic canals and bridges that run through the town, make sure to also explore the Ossenmarkt Fortress, a notable historical landmark there.
The Dutch town is located southeast of Amsterdam and became known for its trade and defense. It’s actually one of the Netherlands’ fortress towns. Weesp also played a major role as part of the Dutch Waterline, a defense system that could flood surrounding areas to protect the nation’s major cities.
8. Abcoude (8.08 Miles From Amsterdam)
This charming Dutch village is home to around 8,000 residents, and it’s located in the Green Heart of the Netherlands. Abcoude is based just southeast of Amsterdam, in the province of Utrecht. With a history dating back more than 900 years, the town was first mentioned in records from 1085. It was first a modest village with a major focus on fishing and architecture. What makes Abcoude so unique is its location at the confluence of the Angstel, Gein, and Holendrecht rivers, where it’s surrounded by meadows, farmlands, and peaceful waterways.
A must-see historical site in the village is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Defense Line of Amsterdam, Fort Abcoude, which is open to visitors only from May to September. It’s the perfect place to learn about the Netherlands’ historical defense system. Add to your must-visit list also the 17th-century church tower as well as the old town hall.
9. Ouderkerk aan de Amstel (6.84 Miles From Amsterdam)
Ouderkerk aan de Amstel offers a tranquil slice of Dutch countryside living. It’s located just around seven miles south of Amsterdam. You can reach the village from Amsterdam in just 40 minutes by cycling, where you can enjoy riding past waterfront homes and open fields, or you can opt for a quick 20-minute drive.
The charming Dutch village is located along the Amstel River, so it’s the perfect escape if you want riverside terraces, peaceful views, and scenic windmills. Ouderkerk aan de Amstel is also full of historic churches, and it’s famous for housing the Netherlands’ oldest Jewish cemetery (Beth Haim). If you’re looking for some outdoor relaxation where you can enjoy a swim, then Ouderkerkerplas lake is located just near the town.
Ouderkerk aan de Amstel was first mentioned in 1308. It developed around a church, and its historical significance stems from its close proximity to Amsterdam.
10. Volendam (12.43 Miles From Amsterdam)
Over the years, 14th-century Volendam has transformed into a popular tourist destination, especially in summer, with its colorful wooden fishermen’s houses that serve nowadays as restaurants, souvenir shops, and photography studios where visitors can dress in national Dutch costumes.
The fishing village is located about 13 miles north of Amsterdam and is nestled along the shores of the Markermeer. Back in the 14th century, the town served as the harbor for the nearby town of Edam. Later, it developed into a bustling fishing community.
Make sure to visit the Volendams Museum to learn about the village’s cultural heritage, such as its art and traditional costumes. Also, hit the local eateries for some delish smoked eel and seafood, which Volendam is famous for.
During festivals and special events in this town, you’ll have the chance to witness residents dressed in traditional Dutch attire.
It’s easy to reach Volendam by bus or bike from Amsterdam, and the village is usually included in guided tours along with Zaanse Schans and other must-see charming Dutch villages.
