Day trip to Ameland

Island feeling in one day!
Fancy a little getaway without immediately having to take a holiday? Come spend a day on Ameland!

Once you step on the boat, you leave the mainland behind and relaxation begins naturally. In less than an hour's sail, you find yourself on an island full of dunes, charming villages, lovely terraces, and abundant nature. A day on Ameland feels like a mini-vacation – you return with a clear mind and a smile.

🛳️ How to plan your day out

A day trip to Ameland is quite feasible, especially if you live or stay in the northern part of the country. From Holwerd, you sail to the island in about 50 minutes. Want to enjoy it even longer? Then choose the early boat – that way you make the most of your day.

You can also choose the express service, a quick crossing of about 20 minutes. Ideal if you have less time or mainly want to do a lot on the island itself. Keep in mind that you cannot take a bicycle on the express service, but fortunately you can easily rent one upon arrival in Nes. Nes is also within walking distance of the pier (about 15 minutes).

View the ferry schedule

⛴️ Booking boat tickets: easily arranged

To be sure of your spot and the most suitable departure time, we recommend booking your boat tickets to Ameland online in advance. This applies to both the regular ferry service and the express service. As soon as you know you want to go to Ameland, it is wise to book immediately – this way you have the most choice and are guaranteed a place on board.

🕒 Tip: you can change or cancel your tickets online up to 1 hour before departure.

Good to know:

➡️ Several parking areas are available within walking distance of the ferry port of Holwerd.
➡️ The regular ferry has a bus connection to Ameland, the express service does not – please take this into account in your planning.
➡️ Upon arrival on Ameland, taxis are available, both at the regular ferry and the express service. Convenient if you want to travel comfortably to your destination.

The schedule varies by season, so be sure to check the departure times carefully for both outbound and return trips.
Download here the complete 2025 schedules for the regular ferry and express service, valid until January 5, 2026.

👉 Note: this annual schedule does not include extra departures on busy days. For the most current information, we recommend always consulting the online schedule.

Whichever ferry you choose, the island feeling begins as soon as you board. Leave the mainland behind and get into island mode!

☕ Tip: book the Day Trip Ameland Package

Do you want to enjoy your day without hassle? Then book the Day Trip Ameland Package from VVV Ameland. Everything you need arranged all at once:

🟢 One day bike rental
🟢 Coffee or tea with cake at a cozy restaurant
🟢 Admission to one of the Ameland museums or the lighthouse
🟢 Ameland XXL bike route

Price: from: € 26,- per person

View our Day Trip Ameland Package here >>

On the road on the island

Upon arrival, you can hop on the bike right away. Rent one at the ferry dam or in Nes and choose a route that suits you:

Cycle through the dunes to Hollum and visit the lighthouse.
Make a stop in Ballum for a tour through the picturesque village.
Ride via Buren to the Oerd and the Hôn for a beautiful view.

Prefer walking?
From Nes, you can walk straight to the beach or follow a route through forest and dune. For those who want to take it easier, there is also a bus line that crisscrosses the island.

What are you going to do?

A day on Ameland is what you make of it. Leisurely strolling or being active – everything is possible. Here are a few nice ideas:

Visit the Nature Center, Museum Sorgdrager or climb the lighthouse.
Settle down on a terrace for coffee or lunch with a view.
Walk a stretch along the beach, with the wind in your hair.
Bring your binoculars!

📍 Some handy tips

Arrive on time at Holwerd, especially during holidays and weekends.
Bring a backpack with sunscreen, water, and something to eat.
Check the weather – even in rain, Ameland is surprisingly fun.

See you on Ameland – for one day or… maybe even a bit longer!

🍽️ Food & Drinks

Taking a break? On Ameland you will find plenty of cozy cafés, beach pavilions, and restaurants – from a cup of coffee with homemade cake to an extensive lunch or dinner with a sea view. In every village, you will find atmospheric spots to settle down for a while.

Tip: be sure to try local specialties such as Amelander mustard or catfish.

View the possibilities

🚲 Hit the road!

Ameland is a paradise for walkers and cyclists. There are tens of kilometers of paved and unpaved paths that take you through dunes, forests, polders, and along the coast.

Whether you are taking a short circular walk or planning a long bike ride – with a good route in hand, you can discover the island at your own pace.

View our routes

🛏️ Would you prefer to stay a little longer?

One day is sometimes not enough. Would you like to discover even more or simply enjoy the tranquility for an extra night? Then there are plenty of options to stay overnight. From cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels, holiday homes, and campsites – there is something for every type of visitor.

Stay the night

ℹ️ Want to know more or book something fun?

Would you like more tips, to buy a walking or cycling map, or to book an excursion? Then just stop by with us in Nes. Our staff will be happy to help you with inspiration, routes, and tickets for, for example, seal tours, museums, or guided nature walks.

You will also find nice souvenirs to take home – a tangible reminder of your day on the island!

Address and opening hours