How to spend 3 days in Hoofddorp
📍 Itinerary Overview for 3 Days at Hoofddorp
🚩 Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation
Morning:
• Arrive at Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport, check-in, and freshen up.
• Stroll around Hoofddorp Centrum, explore local shops and cafes.
Afternoon:
• Visit the Haarlemmermeer Forest, perfect for a peaceful walk or cycling.
• Stop by Big Spotters Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Evening:
• Dinner at Restaurant Den Burgh, known for Dutch cuisine and modern European dishes.
🚩 Day 2: Cultural Exploration & Nature
Morning:
• Take a short drive to Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal), a world-famous tulip garden in nearby Lisse.
• Wander through the tulip fields, fountains, and sculptures.
Afternoon:
• Explore Historisch Museum Haarlemmermeer, which highlights local history, aviation, and agriculture.
• Relax at Polderhuis, a cozy restaurant for a traditional Dutch lunch.
Evening:
• Return to Hoofddorp for a serene evening by the Toolenburgerplas Lake, a perfect spot for sunset photos.
• Have dinner at Het Gemaal for lakeside views and a relaxed atmosphere.
🚩 Day 3: Day Trip to Amsterdam
Morning:
• Take the train (about 20 minutes) to Amsterdam Centraal.
• Visit Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum to explore Dutch art and culture.
• Explore the Amsterdam Canals on a boat tour.
Afternoon:
• Enjoy lunch at Foodhallen Amsterdam, with a variety of local and international dishes.
• Wander around Jordaan and visit Anne Frank House.
Evening:
• Return to Hoofddorp for dinner at Bij Qunis, offering farm-to-table local dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
🚇 Transportation
• Hyatt Place offers shuttle services to and from Schiphol Airport.
• Use NS Trains for easy access to Amsterdam and nearby towns.
• Renting a bike is ideal for exploring Hoofddorp’s parks and green spaces.
📷 Photo Spots
• Keukenhof Gardens (Tulip fields)
• Big Spotters Hill (Panoramic views)
• Toolenburgerplas Lake (Sunset)
• Amsterdam Canals (Boat tour & scenic walks)
🍜 Local Cuisine
• Poffertjes (Dutch mini pancakes) at Hoofddorp Centrum cafes.
• Stamppot (mashed potatoes and vegetables) at local Dutch restaurants.
• Try kibbeling (fried fish) at a food stall in the town center.
🏠 Accommodation
1. Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport
• A comfortable, modern hotel located near Schiphol Airport and a short distance from Hoofddorp. Great for both relaxation and access to the city.
💡 Tips
• Spring is tulip season, so plan accordingly for Keukenhof’s opening times (mid-March to mid-May).
• Buy NS train tickets in advance for travel to Amsterdam to avoid queues.
• Rent bikes to fully experience Hoofddorp’s green spaces and parks.
• Carry some euros in cash for small local purchases or street food.