Spring (March–May)
Spring is the obvious one, and for good reason. Late March through early May is when the tulips show up, especially around Lisse, and it actually looks like the photos (which I was slightly skeptical about until I saw it in person).
Summer (June–August)
Summer is busy but fun. Longer days, warmer weather, and everything feels open and active. It does get crowded though, especially in central Amsterdam—so just expect that and plan around it.
Fall (September–October)
Fall is quieter and honestly underrated. Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and still very walkable.
Winter (November–February)
Winter is slower and colder, but if you don’t mind layering up, it’s a different kind of experience (and significantly less crowded).
You’ll probably fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is about 20 minutes from the city center.
Once you’re in Amsterdam, the best thing you can do is just walk.
The canals are what you came for, and they’re everywhere. You don’t need a strict plan here—just start moving and you’ll hit something worth stopping for.
If you want a structured way to see it scroll down to my blogs to see my exact path.
This was one of the main reasons I went—and it lived up to the hype.
Lisse is where most of the fields are, and it’s about 30–40 minutes from Amsterdam. I didn’t expect how big they’d actually be. It’s not just one field—it’s rows and rows in every direction.
This ended up being one of my favorite parts.
Delft felt calm and easy to walk. Gouda was smaller but fun for a half-day. Alkmaar had less crowds but still had plenty going on.
You don’t need to overplan these—just pick one or two and go.
This is where the Netherlands really stands out.
The train system is extremely easy to use and connects pretty much everything.
I used trains for some of my trip and it was pretty effortless.
Everyone bikes here. Everyone.
I thought about renting one in Amsterdam… and then decided I liked being alive.
If you’re comfortable biking in traffic, go for it. If not, walking and trains will cover you just fine.
If you want to explore more rural areas or move at your own pace, renting a car makes sense. I ended up going to a lot more cities just by having one.
Driving itself is easy—it’s more the parking in cities that can get annoying.
Type C and F plugs. You’ll need a European adapter.
I always bring a compact one with extra USB ports because outlets are never where you want them → Anker USB-C Travel Adapter
Central European Time (CET)
Cards are widely accepted, but smaller places sometimes prefer debit cards or cash. I kept a small amount of euros on me just in case.
You will walk more than you think. And stand. And walk some more.
Comfortable shoes are not optional.
This is not a suggestion. They will not slow down for you.
Look both ways for bikes before stepping anywhere—even sidewalks.
If you see fresh stroopwafels being made—just get one.
I thought I’d try one and move on. That did not happen.
Most international flights into the Netherlands go through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is the main hub and where you’ll likely land. It’s one of the busiest airports in Europe, but it’s very straightforward to navigate once you’re there.
If you’re planning to visit multiple cities, Schiphol is still the easiest entry point. You can go straight from the airport to other places like Rotterdam, The Hague, or Delft without needing to stay in Amsterdam first.
There are direct trains from the airport underneath the terminal, and if you’re renting a car (my suggestion), pickup is right outside and easy to navigate once you’re on the road.
If you’re flying from the U.S., expect overnight flights going there and daytime flights coming back.
Every 6 minutes a new round unlocks, and you can eat your way around the world for two hours. 🌍🍽️
Masons in Kaiserslautern: Korean BBQ, Jamaican jerk chicken, raclette potatoes, crispy baked ricotta from Monaco, and the Belgian cookie cheesecake you’ll still be talking about the next day. €39-45 per person. Bring a group and pace yourself, because they charge for leftovers.
Save this for your next trip to Germany
Sedona got me again 🌵
This was my second trip, and somehow I liked it even more. Every visit adds another trail, viewpoint, or restaurant to the list, and the list keeps getting longer. This time I stayed near Airport Mesa, with sunsets right outside my door and none of the crowds.
My Substack has everything I’d tell a first-time visitor: the lodge I’ve now stayed at twice, the experiences I’d do first, and the restaurants I’d plan my days around.
Subscribe for free so you don’t miss the next one. Link in bio ✨
YES is always the answer... ✈️
I’m Wendy, and yes, I travel for a living (still pinching myself). After 15 years teaching middle school math, I traded the whiteboard for a passport and never looked back. Knoxville is home base, but Arizona sunsets are on another level, and if it’s been sitting on your list, this is your sign to finally say yes and book it. City guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots are all on the blog. So glad you’re here 🌵☀️
A café, bakery, market, and wine shop all in one Phoenix stop 🍊
At La Grande Orange, order the crepes first, they’re the thing I’d go back for. The chicken salad sandwich is perfect if someone wants lunch while you’re still on breakfast, and the red velvet mini cupcake and a chai latte round it out. The sea salt chocolate chip cookie is heartier than gooey, so it’s best for dunkers. It’s counter service with easy parking, and the market has quirky gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Leave time to browse, because you’ll stay longer than planned.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ☀️
“Outside Terminal 3” is not a pickup location at PHX.
Before your driver pulls in, text them four things: your terminal, north or south side, door number, and inner or outer curb. Grab your bags first, then call them in. Drivers can wait free in the cell phone lot instead of circling. Getting through security is easy; getting picked up is the hard part.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ✈️
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
