Amsterdam is a city that rewards full days of exploration — not just with its iconic canals, museums, and lively neighborhoods, but also with nearby countryside and historic towns that reveal the true heart of the Netherlands. Whether you’re into windmills and cheese, want a private royal castle visit, or prefer cruising scenic rivers, there’s a full-day tour that fits your style. For example, the From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, & Marken Full-Day Trip offers a classic look at windmills, cheese, and wooden shoes, perfect for getting a taste of authentic Dutch culture. Meanwhile, those seeking a more personalized experience might prefer the Private Guided Full-Day Customizable Tour of Holland that adapts to your interests and includes visits to historic villages and family heritage sites.
Amsterdam’s flat terrain and excellent transport options make it ideal for full-day outings. You can explore charming villages, historic castles, or even venture into Belgium—like the Bruges and Ghent day trip. For those who want to see the city itself from a different perspective, cycling or walking combined with boat rides, like on the Full-Day Walking, Biking & Cruising, are excellent ways to cover a lot of ground. Whatever your interest, this guide will help you pick the best full-day tour in Amsterdam.
1. From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, & Marken Full-Day Trip
This popular full-day tour is perfect if you want a traditional Dutch experience. It starts early, taking you out of the city to visit Zaanse Schans, where windmills turn and artisans craft wooden shoes and traditional clogs. Next, you’ll explore the picturesque town of Edam, famous for its cheese, where you can see cheese-making demonstrations and sample some fresh varieties. Continuing to Volendam, you’ll watch cheese and clog demonstrations, and then head to Marken, a quiet island village with wooden houses that look straight out of a storybook. The tour often ends with a scenic canal cruise back in Amsterdam, providing a relaxing finish. With a 4.8-star rating from over 3,400 reviews, travelers love the blend of sights, authentic experiences, and friendly guides. This tour is very affordable at just $35 per person for about 6.5-7.5 hours, making it an excellent value.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a classic Dutch countryside outing with plenty of photo ops and cultural demonstrations, this trip hits all the highlights. It’s ideal for first-timers and families wanting a taste of windmills, cheese, and traditional crafts.
2. Private Guided Full-Day Customizable Tour of Holland from Amsterdam
For travelers who prefer a tailor-made experience, this private tour is a standout. Your guide will design an itinerary based on your interests, whether that’s exploring windmill villages, visiting ancestral hometowns, or sampling Dutch cuisine. You’ll travel in a comfortable private vehicle, giving you flexibility that group tours can’t match. The tour’s 5.0-star rating from 48 reviews speaks to its personalized nature and attentive guides. It’s perfect if you want to focus on specific sights or avoid crowded spots. The trip lasts around 8 hours, and the cost reflects the exclusivity at $565. Notably, this tour supports sustainable tourism, traveling off the beaten path with low emissions and engagement with local communities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want control over their day and a guide who can customize the experience to your passions. It’s an excellent choice if you’re interested in Dutch heritage and nature but dislike cookie-cutter tours.
3. Amsterdam: 1/3-Hour or Full-Day Bike Rental with Lock
Want to see Amsterdam like a local? This bike rental experience makes it easy. For just $13 per person, you can take a 1-hour bike ride or rent all day, with a lock included. Cycling in Amsterdam is a must-do, especially since the city is built for bikes, not cars. It’s a fantastic way to cruise along canals, cross bridges, and explore neighborhoods at your own pace. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can venture out to nearby countryside landscapes, windmills, farms, and lakes, all accessible by bike. This flexible rental is a favorite, with 177 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, for its affordability and ease of use.
Bottom Line: Ideal for self-sufficient travelers who want to explore independently without a guided schedule. It’s perfect for a quick spin or a full-day ride through Amsterdam’s scenic outskirts.
4. Full day tour to Texel – Friesian Islands – from Amsterdam
At number 4 on our list, the Full day tour to Texel offers an immersive wildlife experience in a UNESCO-listed area. This 9-hour trip takes you by boat and bus to the Wadden Sea islands, where you can spot seals, seabirds, and wild flora. The highlight is exploring Texel, with plenty of time to walk through villages, beaches, and nature reserves. The tour includes live commentary and wildlife viewing, making it ideal for nature lovers and families. For seafood fans, there’s the chance to enjoy fresh seafood (own expense). The reviews are glowing, noting the guide’s knowledge and the island’s beauty. The experience costs about $289 per person, including boat and bus transfers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a nature-focused day, wildlife watching, and a peaceful escape from city life with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxation.
5. Full-Day Private Historic Royal Tour around Palaces and Castles
If fairy tales and royal history fascinate you, this private castle and palace tour is a highlight. It’s designed for those who want to see multiple historic sites in one day without the hassle of public transport. Visit Paleis Het Loo, a stunning 17th-century palace with beautifully restored gardens, or explore Muiderslot Castle, famous for its medieval architecture and TV filming locations. The tour includes up to six castles and palaces, with the flexibility to customize your visit. Rated 5.0 stars from 16 reviews, travelers praise the comfortable transport and private guide’s insights. It runs about 6-8 hours and costs around $368 per person.
Bottom Line: This is ideal if you’re into castles, royal history, and want a stress-free, personalized experience. Best for history buffs and families wanting a luxurious day.
6. From Amsterdam: Antwerp & Ghent Full Day Tour
A bit further afield, the Antwerp & Ghent tour is tough to beat for history and architecture lovers. It’s a 14-hour day traveling by coach to explore Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady and Ghent’s Castle of the Counts. The trip includes guided tours and free time to wander charming streets and take photos. The reviews highlight the enthusiastic guide and the efficient itinerary, perfect for those wanting a full taste of Belgian culture without an overnight stay. At $226 per person, it’s a good value considering the long day and rich sights.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Belgium’s top cities, especially if you’re interested in architecture and historic landmarks.
7. Amsterdam full day: Walking, Biking & Cruising with Lunch
This multi-activity tour combines walking, biking, and a canal cruise for a lively day in Amsterdam. Starting at Beursplein 1, you’ll explore key neighborhoods like the Jordaan and Museumplein, then enjoy a Dutch pancake lunch. The cycling component takes you through scenic streets and parks, and the boat cruise offers a relaxing view of the city’s canals. With 17 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it’s praised for its variety and local insights. The all-in price is $101, making it a budget-friendly way to see a lot in one day.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a dynamic, multi-sensory experience with a mix of walking, biking, and cruising, especially if you enjoy active sightseeing.
8. A Full Day In Amsterdam With A Local: Private & Personalized
For a completely personalized experience, this private tour offers a host who will craft your perfect day. You might explore the neighborhoods that interest you most, visit the Anne Frank House, or enjoy local cuisine. The flexible 8-hour itinerary is designed around your preferences—so if you want to focus on hidden cafes or iconic sights, your host will accommodate. With 8 reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating, travelers appreciate the insider tips and tailored approach. Cost is $340 per person.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to go beyond the standard sights and get a true local perspective, with a guide who adapts to your interests.
9. Private full-day customizable tour of the Netherlands from Amsterdam
This private day trip allows you to create your perfect Holland itinerary. Whether you want to visit Delft’s pottery workshops, Utrecht’s medieval streets, or the Hague’s government buildings, your guide handles all logistics. The 9-hour trip is flexible and includes door-to-door service, making it a stress-free way to see more of the country. Rated 5.0 stars from 8 reviews, travelers love the personalized service and expert guidance. The price is roughly $438 per person, reflecting the exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with specific interests or limited time who want a fully tailored experience with no worries about transport.
10. Amsterdam: Full-Day Countryside Tour
This small-group or private tour takes you into Dutch villages and scenic farmland. It’s perfect for those who want to see cheese farms, wooden clog workshops, and water management sites. The 5.5-hour tour includes lunch in a village and visits to windmills, and the $659 group price is a great deal for a comprehensive rural exploration. Tourists mention Robin, the guide, as a knowledgeable local, who shows you around water dikes, churches, and traditional farms.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in rural life, traditional crafts, and authentic Dutch landscapes, with a manageable time commitment.
11. Marken, Volendam and Edam: Private Full-Day Tour
This private tour covers three classic Dutch villages—Marken, Volendam, and Edam—with boat crossings and fish auction viewing. It’s perfect for those who want a personalized, relaxed day in the countryside. The inclusion of a lake boat ride adds a special touch, and you can shop for souvenirs in Volendam. With 18 reviews and a 4.7 rating, travelers appreciate the flexibility and scenic stops. Price is $329 per person for an 8-hour experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for couples or families wanting an intimate, scenic tour of iconic villages with a boat adventure included.
12. Private Full-Day to Bruges Sightseeing Tour from Amsterdam
This 10-hour private tour takes you across the border to explore Bruges’ medieval streets, belfry, and main square. It’s perfect if you want to maximize sightseeing and skip the train hassle. The trip includes guided visits and free time to enjoy Belgian chocolates or a boat ride. Rated 5.0 stars from 5 reviews, travelers praise the driver’s professionalism and the smooth itinerary. Cost is $694.56 per person, suitable for those wanting an upscale day in Belgium.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a tailored, private experience in Bruges and Ghent with minimal fuss.
13. Full-Day Executive Chauffeur Service in Amsterdam
If maximum comfort is your priority, this luxury chauffeur service offers private, climate-controlled cars with professional drivers. Perfect for airport transfers, special occasions, or day trips. The up to 14-hour service costs $463 per group (up to 7 people) and promises discretion, top-notch vehicles, and local knowledge. Reviewers appreciate the stress-free experience and friendly drivers. It’s a great choice if you want a seamless, high-end experience with total flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who value privacy, comfort, and personalized service, whether for sightseeing or transportation.
14. Vecht River: Full-day Cruise with Lunch
This 6-hour river cruise along the Vecht River combines scenic views with excellent food. It’s a private or small-group experience with a 3-course lunch on the terrace of a riverside restaurant. The boat stops at historic villages and castles, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed day surrounded by Dutch water and nature. Guests mention Martien’s storytelling and the peaceful atmosphere as highlights. The cost is $222 per person, making it a worthwhile splurge for a tranquil escape.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a calm, scenic day on the water with good company and delicious local cuisine.
15. Amsterdam and Countryside Private Full-Day Tour by luxury car
Finally, for those seeking the ultimate in flexibility and luxury, this private, fully customizable day trip combines city highlights with hidden gems. Starting with a luxury car tour of Dam Square, the Canal Belt, and the Jordaan, your guide can also arrange visits to Keukenhof Gardens (spring only). The 8-9 hour experience costs $795 per group (up to 3 people), with reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and personalized attention. It’s perfect if you want to see the city and countryside in style, with a guide who tailors every detail.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a private, high-end experience with complete control over their itinerary, ideal for special occasions or luxury travelers.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Amsterdam
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. If you’re after a classic Dutch experience with windmills and cheese, the Zaanse Schans, Edam, & Marken trip is hard to beat. For a completely personalized day, the private Holland tour or Royal castles gives you full control. Budget travelers will appreciate the bike rental or walking and biking combo, while those seeking luxury might opt for the chauffeur service.
Consider logistics—if you want to visit Belgium’s Bruges, the full-day Bruges tour is an excellent choice. For nature lovers, the Texel Island or Vecht River cruise offer peaceful escapes. Booking early is advisable, especially for private or popular tours, to ensure availability.
Amsterdam offers an array of full-day options that cater to every interest and pace. Whether you prefer the charm of windmills and cheese or a tailored private experience, these tours help you see more of the Netherlands in a single day — making every moment outside the city as memorable as Amsterdam itself.