Day Trips that Pair with the Van Gogh Museum – Keukenhof, Zundert, and More

The Van Gogh Museum is your deep dive into Vincent’s art. To extend that feeling into the real landscape, pair it with a day trip that echoes his themes: fields, light, and rural life.

Option 1: Keukenhof and bulb fields (spring only)

Best for: colour lovers visiting between March and May.

Why it pairs well:

• After seeing painted blossoms and orchards, you step into real fields of flowers.
• The contrast between disciplined rows of tulips and Van Gogh’s wild brushstrokes is fascinating.

Suggested plan:

• Day 1 – Van Gogh Museum + Museumplein.
• Day 2 – Morning bus/train to Keukenhof + stroll in nearby fields.

🌷 Tip:
Bring one or two printed reproductions of Van Gogh’s blossom paintings and compare them to real branches.

Option 2: Zundert – Birthplace of Vincent van Gogh

Best for: hardcore Van Gogh fans.

In and around Zundert you can find:

• The area where he was born and spent parts of his youth.
• Landscapes that echo early Dutch works.

Expect a quieter, more contemplative experience than big attractions.

Option 3: Dutch countryside and small towns

Consider towns like:

• Haarlem – historic centre, dunes and beaches nearby.
• Utrecht – canals with lower‑level wharves, churches, and calm streets.
• Amersfoort or Gouda – smaller scale, traditional charm.

Connect the dots:

• Look for fields, canals, and skies that could be background scenes to a Van Gogh landscape.
• Take quick photos and later compare them to works you saw in Amsterdam.

Option 4: Amsterdam walking routes

If you don’t want to leave the city, build a Van Gogh‑themed walk:

• Start at Museumplein.
• Wander along canals noticing reflections and gables.
• End in a quiet café with your museum notes or postcards.

No matter which extension you choose, you’re doing the same thing Vincent did: walking, looking, and turning ordinary places into attentive moments.