7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Katwijk

Digital nomads living in Katwijk, have the unique advantage of being nestled along the beautiful Dutch coastline while also being within easy reach of some of Europe's most charming and intriguing destinations. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend escape to recharge your batteries or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there's something nearby to satisfy every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of popular and unusual experiences not too far from Katwijk.

Amsterdam

As one of the most iconic cities in the world, Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for anyone living in or visiting the Netherlands. With its historic canals, world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone. Wander through the charming Jordaan district, explore the bustling Albert Cuyp Market, or take a leisurely bike ride through Vondelpark.

How to Get There: Amsterdam is easily accessible from Katwijk by car or public transport. The journey by train takes approximately 40 minutes from Leiden Central Station, which is a short bus ride away from Katwijk.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Anne Frank House. It's a deeply moving experience that offers a poignant look at history. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Where to Stay: The Hoxton, Amsterdam, offers a cozy yet stylish stay right in the heart of the city, with views of the canals. For a more unique experience, consider staying on a houseboat.

Where to Eat: Foodhallen is an indoor food market with a wide variety of food stands offering everything from Vietnamese street food to gourmet burgers. It's a great place to sample different cuisines and mingle with locals.

Keukenhof Gardens

For a colorful and fragrant weekend, visit the Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world's largest flower gardens. Located in Lisse, just a short drive from Katwijk, Keukenhof is open from March to May and showcases millions of blooming flowers, including the Netherlands' famous tulips. The garden's themed pavilions and art installations add to the allure of this floral paradise.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Keukenhof is by car, which takes about 20 minutes from Katwijk. Alternatively, during the blooming season, there are direct buses from Leiden Central Station.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds and have the best chance of taking unobstructed photos of the stunning floral displays.

Where to Stay: For a quaint experience, book a room at Bed & Breakfast De Vier Seizoenen, which offers a charming stay close to the gardens.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at Restaurant De Engel in Lisse, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Dutch cuisine.

Giethoorn

Often referred to as the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn is a picturesque village where the main mode of transportation is by boat. With its thatched-roof cottages and serene canals, it's a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Rent a whisper boat (an electric-powered boat) and navigate the waterways, or explore the village on foot along its quaint wooden bridges.

How to Get There: Giethoorn is about a 2-hour drive from Katwijk. Public transport options are available but may involve multiple transfers, so driving is recommended.

Travel Tip: Visit the Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus to learn about the village's history and see how locals lived in the past.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at De Dames Van De Jonge Hotel Restaurant, which offers a picturesque setting and boat rental services.

Where to Eat: Grand Café Fanfare is known for its ambiance inspired by the 1958 Dutch film "Fanfare" and serves delicious local dishes.

Leiden

Just a stone's throw from Katwijk, Leiden is a historic city brimming with culture and academia. Home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, Leiden boasts several museums, including the Naturalis Biodiversity Center and the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum. The city's botanical gardens are also a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll.

How to Get There: Leiden is very close to Katwijk, with a direct bus line connecting the two, and the journey takes less than 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Climb the De Valk windmill museum for a panoramic view of the city and a glimpse into the life of a miller.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel d'Oude Morsch offers a unique stay in a former army barracks, conveniently located near the city center.

Where to Eat: Waag is a historic cheese weighing house turned into a restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting.

Zaanse Schans

Step back in time with a visit to Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that showcases the industrial past of the Zaan region. Here, you can see traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and workshops. Watch clog-making demonstrations, visit the cheese factory, and learn about the production of Dutch cocoa and chocolate.

How to Get There: Zaanse Schans is about a 40-minute drive from Katwijk. Public transport options include a train from Leiden to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, followed by a 15-minute walk.

Travel Tip: Purchase a Zaanse Schans Card for discounts on museum entries and a free map of the area.

Where to Stay: Heerlijck Slaapen offers charming accommodations right on the Zaanse Schans, with views of the windmills.

Where to Eat: Restaurant De Hoop Op d'Swarte Walvis serves traditional Dutch cuisine and offers a terrace with views of the river Zaan.

Texel Island

For an unusual getaway, take a trip to Texel Island, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Sea Islands. It's a paradise for nature lovers, with its beaches, dunes, and forests. Birdwatching is particularly popular here, and you can also visit Ecomare, a center for marine life and a seal sanctuary.

How to Get There: Reach Texel by taking a train from Leiden to Den Helder and then a short ferry ride to the island.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the island's diverse landscapes and picturesque villages at your own pace.

Where to Stay: Hotel de Lindeboom in Den Burg offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities in a historic building dating back to 1891.

Where to Eat: Strandpaviljoen Paal 17 is a beachside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sea views.

Fortress Island Pampus

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Fortress Island Pampus, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Defence Line of Amsterdam. This artificial island was built in the late 19th century to defend the city. Today, you can explore the fortress, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding water.

How to Get There: From Katwijk, drive to Muiden, where you can catch a ferry to Pampus Island. The journey by car and ferry takes about an hour and a half.

Travel Tip: Check the Pampus Island website for special events, such as historical reenactments or themed tours, which can enhance your visit.

Where to Stay: Nearby Muiden has several charming B&Bs, such as Het Rechthuis aan den Amstel, which offers a cozy stay in a historic setting.

Where to Eat: Café Ome Ko in Muiden is a local favorite, known for its waterfront terrace and traditional Dutch snacks.