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The North and the Frisian Islands Travel Guide

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Until the early twentieth century, the north of the Netherlands was a remote area, a distinct region of small provincial towns far removed from the mainstream life of the Randstad. Yet, in 1932, the opening of the Afsluitdijk, a 30-kilometre-long sea wall bridging the mouth of the Zuider Zee, changed the orientation of the country once and for all: the Zuider Zee, once a corridor for great trading ships, became the freshwater IJsselmeer and the cultural gap between the north and west narrowed almost immediately.

Around Groningen

Motor racing in assen, the elfstedentocht, friesland: a land apart, the frisian islands, hindeloopen, moddergat and wierum.

One of the three northern provinces, Friesland, is a deservedly popular tourist stopover, with its cluster of dune-swept islands, a likeable capital in Leeuwarden, and a chain of eleven immaculate, history-steeped “cities” (villages really), each with a distinct charm: Harlingen is noted for its splendid merchant houses; Hindeloopen , with its cobbled streets and pin-neat canals, encapsulates the antique prettiness of the region;while Makkum was a centre of tile manufacture and is still known for ceramics and its role as a sailing centre. As for the islands, each is barely more than an elongated sandbank, parts of which can be reached by indulging in wadlopen , hearty walks along (or ankle-deep in) the mud flats that flank the islands to the south. In the north stretches kilometre after kilometre of hourglass-fine sandy beach and a network of cycleways. Like much of the Netherlands, the scenery of the mainland is predominantly green, bisected by canals and dotted with black-and-white cattle – Friesians, of course – and pitch-black Frisian horses. Breaking the pancake-flat monotony of the landscape, sleek wind turbines make the most of the strong westerlies, a modern counterpart to the last working windmills in the area.

East of Friesland, the province of Groningen has comparatively few attractions, but the university town of Groningen more than makes up for this with a vibrant ambience, contemporary fashions, range of affordable bars and restaurants, a growing international performance-art festival and the best nightlife in the region. It’s also home to the Groninger Museum , a striking and controversial vision of urban architecture and art, and a definite highlight of the region.

South of Groningen lies Drenthe , little more than a barren moor for much of its history. During the nineteenth century, the face of the province was changed by the founding of peat colonies, whose labourers drained the land and dug the peat to expose the subsoil below. As a result, parts of Drenthe are given over to prosperous farmland, with agriculture the dominant industry. Sparsely . and the least visited of the Dutch provinces, Drenthe is now popular with home-grown tourists, who are drawn by its quiet natural beauty, swathes of wood, wide cycling paths and abundant walking trails, although many come here to visit Drenthe’s most original feature – its hunebeds , or megalithic tombs.

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Once known as East Frisia, the province of Groningen does not have the high tourist profile of many of the country’s other regions, but it does boast a large slab of empty coastline where the Lauwersmeer National Park is home to extensive wildlife, the seal sanctuary of Pieterburen, and the pick of the old manor houses that dot the province, Menkemaborg in Uithuizen . To the southeast of Groningen, the old frontier village of Bourtange has been painstakingly restored, offering an insight into eighteenth-century life in a fortified town, while nearby Ter Apel holds a rare survivor from the Reformation in the substantial remains of its monastery.

The Pieterpad

Pieterburen is also the start and end point for the longest unbroken walking route in the Netherlands, the 464-kilometre-long Pieterpad to Maastricht. More information and a map of the walking route can be obtained at Pieterburen VVV or at w pieterpad.nl .

Walks around Uithuizen

The trip to Uithuizen can be combined with wadlopen – a guided walk across the coastal mud flats to the uninhabited sand-spit island of Rottumeroog , the most easterly of the Dutch Wadden islands. Excursion buses head out to the coast from Menkemaborg at weekends two or three times a month(June–Sept); the trip costs from €32.50 per person and lasts four hours: booking is essential – contact Stichting Uithuizer Wad ( w wadlopen.nl ). Without a guide, it’s too dangerous to venture onto the mud flats, but it is easy enough to walk along the enclosing dyke that runs behind the shoreline for the whole length of the province. There’s precious little to see, but when the weather’s clear, the browns, blues and greens of the surrounding land and sea are unusually beautiful. From Uithuizen, it’s a good hour’s stroll north to the nearest point on the dyke, and you’ll need a large-scale map for directions.

Some 10km west of Sneek, Bolsward (pronounced bozwut ) was founded in the seventh century and became a bustling and important textile centre in the Middle Ages, though its subsequent decline was prolonged and deep. It’s less touristy than the surrounding towns, with a busy and attractive central street, Marktstraat, bisected by a canal, and a couple of especially handsome old buildings.

The one significant settlement hereabouts, the town of Dokkum , about 12km northeast of Leeuwarden, made a name for itself when its early pagan inhabitants murdered the English missionary St Boniface and 52 of his companions here in 754. In part still walled and moated, Dokkum has kept its shape as a fortified town, and is best appreciated by the side of the Het Grootdiep canal, which cuts the town into two distinct sections. This was the commercial centre of the old town and is marked by a series of ancient gables, including that of the Admiraliteitshuis which serves as the town’s museum (Tues–Sat 1–5pm; €4; w museumdokkum.nl ). There’s not much else to see beyond a couple of windmills, quiet walks along the old ramparts and all sorts of things named after St Boniface as penance for the locals’ early misdeeds. But there are a couple of nice places to stay, and it makes a good base for some wadlopen , or if you just want to experience small-town Dutch life in one of Friesland’s pleasantest provincial centres.

Until the early nineteenth century, the sparsely populated province of Drenthe , by the German border, was little more than a flat expanse of empty peat bog, marsh and moor. In recent decades, it’s accumulated a scattering of small towns, but it remains the country’s least populated province, whose main pull is its woods and countryside. Its only conspicuous geographical feature is a ridge of low hills that runs northwest for some 50km from Emmen, its largest town, toward Groningen. This ridge, the Hondsrug , was high enough to attract prehistoric settlers whose hunebeds (megalithic tombs) have become Drenthe’s main tourist attraction. Otherwise, Assen , the provincial capital, is a dull place with a good museum, and Emmen , its only real rival, can only be recommended as a convenient base for visiting some of the hunebeds and three neighbouring open-air folk culture museums.

Pretty much the only time Assen is the centre of attention is during the Assen TT ( w tt-assen.com ), the only Grand Prix motorcycle race in the Netherlands, and the British Superbike championships in September. The last TT drew a crowd of around 130,000, making it the largest one-day sports event in the Netherlands. On the three nights leading up to the event, Assen’s centre is packed with people enjoying live music and lots of beer. If you are visiting while it’s on (the last Saturday in June), make sure you book accommodation well in advance.

The Elfstedentocht (“Eleven Towns Race”) is Friesland’s biggest spectacle, a gruelling ice-skating marathon around Friesland that dates back to 1890, when one Pim Muller, a local sports journalist, skated his way around the eleven official towns of the province, simply to see whether it was possible. It was, and twenty years later the first official Elfstedentocht was launched, contested by 22 skaters. Weather – and ice – permitting, it has taken place just fifteen times in the last hundred years, most recently in 1997, attracting skaters from all over the world.

The race is organized by the Eleven Towns Association, of which you must be a member to take part; the high level of interest in the race means that membership is very difficult to obtain. The route, which measures about 200km in total, takes in all the main centres of Friesland, starting in Leeuwarden in the town’s Expo Centre, from where the racers sprint – skates in hand – 1500m to the point where they get onto the ice. The first stop after this is Sneek, after which the race takes in Hindeloopen and the other old Zuider Zee towns, plus Dokkum in the north of the province, before finishing back in Leeuwarden. The event is broadcast live on national TV, the route lined with spectators. Of the 17,000 or so people who take part, usually no more than three hundred are professional skaters. Casualties are inevitably numerous; the worst year was 1963, when 10,000 skaters took part and only seventy finished, the rest beaten by the fierce winds, extreme cold and snowdrifts along the way. Generally, however, something like three-quarters of the competitors make it to the finishing line.

If you’re not around for the race itself, the route makes a popular bike ride and is signposted by the ANWB as one of their national cycling routes; four or five days will allow enough time to sightsee as well as cycle.

Franeker , about 17km west of Leeuwarden, was the cultural hub of the northern Netherlands until Napoleon closed its university in 1810. Today, it’s a quiet country town with a spruce old centre, the highlight of which is an intriguing eighteenth-century planetarium.

A region that prospered during the sixteenth-century heyday of the Zuider Zee trade, Friesland is focused around eleven historic cities and seven lakes, the latter symbolized by the seven red hearts on the region’s flag, which proudly flutters in many a back garden. Friesland once occupied a much larger chunk of the north and, in the eighth century, Charlemagne recognized three parts: West Frisia, equivalent to today’s West Friesland, across the IJsselmeer; Central Frisia, today’s Friesland; and East Frisia, now Groningen province. From earliest times, much of the region was prey to inundation by the sea and the inhabitants built their settlements on artificial mounds ( terpen ) in a frequently forlorn attempt to escape the watery depths. It was a tough existence, but over the centuries the Frisians finessed their skills, extending their settlements by means of a complex network of dykes. You can still see what’s left of some of the mounds around the area, though in large settlements they’re mostly obscured. Always a maverick among Dutch provinces, the area that is now Friesland proper remained independent of the rest of Holland until it was absorbed into the Habsburg Empire by Charles V in 1523.

Since the construction of the Afsluitdijk, Friesland has relied on holidaymakers drawn to its rich history, picturesque lakes and immaculate villages to replace the trading routes and fishing industries of yesteryear. Grand old farmhouses define the region: their thatched roofs slope almost to the ground and are crowned with ûleboerden , white gables in the form of a double swan once used as a deterrent to evil spirits. Boating is one way of getting around and Friesland is also an ideal province to visit by bicycle. The best loop, which takes in all of the Eleven Towns, follows the 220-kilometre-long route of the Elfstedentocht , a marathon ice-skating race held during winters cold enough for the canals to freeze over. Most tourist offices stock maps and guides for cycling, in-line skating, driving or sailing the route all year round.

Finally, the Frisians have several unusual sports and traditions that can still raise eyebrows in the rest of the country. Using a large pole to jump over wet obstacles was once a necessity in the Frisian countryside, but the Frisians turned it into a sport: fierljeppen . Today Frisian and Dutch pole jumpers compete during the annual Frisian championships held in Winsum, on the second Saturday of August.

Skûtjesilen , a fourteen-day sailing race held throughout Friesland in July or August, is another regional oddity. Skûtjes are large cargo vessels, but they went out of use after World War II and are now only used for contests and recreational purposes: the tourist office in Sneek can give information on where to see the races. Last but not least is kaatsen , a Frisian version of tennis, with over 2000 contests held every year. Instead of a racket a kaatser uses a handmade glove to hit the handmade ball; a team of kaatsers comprises three players. There’s a small museum devoted to kaatsen in Franeker .

The four Frisian islands preserve an unexpected sense of wilderness in so populated a country, low-lying sandbanks with mile upon mile of hourglass-fine sandy beaches and well-developed networks of cycleways. A tourist magnet in summertime, busy and developed Terschelling is large enough to swallow the holiday crowds, while car-free Vlieland resembles a grass-covered dunescape and is popular with young families. Both can be reached from Harlingen, while the access point for busy Ameland is the port of Holwerd. The smallest of the four islands is Schiermonnikoog ; this can be reached from Leeuwarden and Dokkum, but the shorter route there is from neighbouring Groningen. One way of reaching the islands is by indulging in wadlopen , a hearty walk at low tide across – and often knee-deep in – the mud flats that lie between the islands and the mainland. See here for ways to do this, but don’t attempt it without a qualified guide. The islands have a wide range of accommodation , particularly Terschelling and Ameland, but prices rise dramatically in summer, when vacant rooms can be thin on the ground, and you should also always reserve ahead if you’re visiting in July or August, or indeed at anytime during the summer.

The Oerol Festival

Every year around the middle of June, Terschelling celebrates the beginning of the warmer season with the Oerol Festival ( w oerol.nl ). Oerol – meaning “everywhere” in the Terschelling dialect – is the name of a rural tradition in which the island’s cattle were released from their winter stables to frolic and graze in the open fields, an event that marked the changing of the seasons. Today, over 50,000 people head out to the island for the Oerol, transforming Terschelling into a big festival area, with the island serving as both inspiration and stage for theatre producers, musicians and graphic artists. Finding accommodation is almost impossible during the ten-day festival, so book ahead.

Wadlopen , or mud-flat walking, is a popular and strenuous Dutch pastime, and the stretch of coast on the northern edge of the provinces of Friesland and Groningen is one of the best places to do it: twice daily, the receding tide uncovers vast expanses of mud flat beneath the Waddenzee. It is, however, a sport to be taken seriously, and far too dangerous to do without an experienced guide: the depth of the mud is variable and the tides inconsistent. In any case, channels of deep water are left even when the tide has receded, and the currents can be perilous. The timing of treks depends on weather and tidal conditions, but most start between 6am and 10am. It’s important to be properly equipped; recommended gear includes shorts or a bathing suit, a sweater, wind jacket, knee-high socks, high-top trainers and a complete change of clothes stashed in a watertight pack. In recent years, wadlopen has become extremely popular, and as excursions are infrequent, between May and August it’s advisable to book a place at least a month in advance. The VVVs in Leeuwarden, Dokkum and Groningen can provide details, or you could contact one of the wadlopen organizations direct.

Prices and trips vary according to location, and how long (and far) you choose to go. You can do a full trip crossing to one of the islands – Ameland or Schiemonnikoog – and coming back by ferry, or just do a circular trip across the mud flats and back again. Pieterburen is a popular place to start: a circular trip from there costs €16.50 per person, and takes three and a half hours; while a full trip to Schiermonnikoog and back by ferry costs €75 a head.

The most exciting city in the northern Netherlands, Groningen comes as something of a surprise in the midst of its namesake province’s quiet, rural surroundings. It’s a hip, rather cosmopolitan place for the most part, with a thriving student life that imbues the city with vim and gusto. Competitively priced restaurants dish up exotic curries and fresh falafel alongside the standard Dutch staples, and the arts scene is particularly vibrant, especially during the academic year. Virtually destroyed during the Allied liberation in 1945, the city focuses on two enormous squares and is now a jumble of styles, from traditional canal-side townhouses to bright Art Deco tilework along the upper facades of the shopping streets – an eclecticism that culminates in the innovative Groninger Museum sitting on its own island near the station. Finally, one of the nice things about Groningen is that the centre is almost car-free , the result of huge investment in traffic-calming measures and a network of cycle paths and bus lanes. Today two-thirds of residents travel regularly by bike, the highest percentage in the country.

Festival Noorderzon

Every year in mid-August, Groningen hosts the increasingly popular Festival Noorderzon ( w noorderzon.nl ), a ten-day blend of theatre, music, film and performance art. About a third of the events are free, many of them staged in the Noorderplantsoen park, a fifteen minute walk north along Nieuwe Kijk in ’t Jatstraat. Come night-time, food stalls and drinking-holes surround the lake in the park, while folk stroll along the lantern-lit paths or chill on the lake’s stone steps to the sound of Afrobeat, Latin, funk, rock, jazz or ambient music. Other entertainment includes circuses, mime, puppetry, videos and installations. Hotels get busy, so if you’re planning to visit around this time you’d do well to book in advance.

The Groninger Museum

The town’s main draw is the excellent Groninger Museum , set on its own island on the southern edge of the centre, directly across from the train station. Aside from a very cool information lounge with computers and touch screens, the museum is mostly given over to temporary exhibitions and what you see really depends on when you’re here. If you’re lucky, a rare work by the seventeenth-century Dutch painter Carel Fabritius – Man in a Helmet (probably the museum’s most prized possession) – will be on display, or Rubens’ energetic Adoration of the Magi and Isaac Israëls’ inviting Hoedenwinkel from a modest sample of Hague School paintings.

Most people, however, visit as much for the building itself as for what’s inside, which consists of six pavilions , each designed in a highly individual style: think Gaudí on holiday in Miami, and you’ll have some idea of the interior decor. Once inside, between the stylish café and museum shop, the striking mosaic stairwell sweeps downwards, depositing you among bulbous lemon-yellow pillars and pink walls, from where moat-level corridors head off to pavilions either side: east to Mendini, Mendini 1 and Coop Himmelb(l)au, west to Starck and De Ploeg.

De Ploeg and the Starck Pavilion

The museum’s collection includes a number of works by the Expressionists of the Groningen De Ploeg school, housed in their own pavilion, a trapezium constructed from red bricks. The De Ploeg movement is characterized by intense colour contrasts, exaggerated shapes and depiction of landscapes – often of the countryside north of Groningen. As founding member Jan Altink put it: “There wasn’t much going on in the way of art in Groningen, so I thought of cultivation and thus also of ploughing. Hence the name De Ploeg.” As well as Altink, look out for the paintings of Jan Wiegers. Upstairs from De Ploeg, the Philippe Starck pavilion is a giant disc clad in aluminium plating and houses the museum’s wonderful collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain , beautifully displayed in circular glass cases, softened by gauzy drapes.

The Mendini Pavilions and Coop Himmelb(l)au

On the other side of the mosaic stairway, the Mendini pavilions are dedicated to temporary exhibitions, while a large concrete stairway links Mendini 1 to the final, and most controversial, pavilion. Designed by Wolfgang Prix and Helmut Swiczinsky, who together call themselves Coop Himmelb(l)au , it’s a Deconstructivist experiment: double-plated steel and reinforced glass jut out at awkward angles, and skinny aerial walkways crisscross the exhibition space. It all feels – probably deliberately – half-built. Look out for the glass-walk holes, where the concrete floor stops and suddenly between your feet the canal gapes, two storeys below. This pavilion is also given over to temporary exhibitions.

Liquor fit for a queen?

Although Groningen does not have a rich culinary tradition, the Hooghoudt brewery ( w hooghoudt.nl ) is known throughout the country and dates back to 1888. It’s best known for its Graanjevener, but they also produce Beerenburg and other liquors like the Wilhelmus Orange Liquor, which is traditionally served on Queen’s Day.

Thirty kilometres west of Leeuwarden and just north of the Afsluitdijk, Harlingen , is a more compelling stop than nearby Franeker. An ancient and salty old port that serves as the ferry terminus for the islands of Terschelling and Vlieland, it’s something of a centre for traditional Dutch sailing barges , a number of which are usually moored in the harbour. It was a naval base from the seventeenth century onwards, and abuts the Vliestroom channel, once the easiest way for shipping to pass from the North Sea through the shallows that surround the Frisian islands and on into the Zuider Zee. Before trade moved west, this was the country’s lifeline, where cereals, fish and other foodstuffs were brought in from the Baltic to feed the expanding Dutch cities, and it was also once a centre for the ceramics industry. Its historic importance is reflected in a fine old centre of sixteenth- to eighteenth-century houses, sandwiched between the pretty Noorderhaven and the more functional Zuiderhaven canals. However, Harlingen is too busy to be a twee tourist town: there’s a fishing fleet, a small container depot and a shipbuilding yard.

The exquisitely pretty village of Hindeloopen juts into the IJsselmeer, and is very much on the tour-bus trail. Outside high summer, however, and in the evening when most visitors have gone home, it’s peaceful and very enticing, a tidy jigsaw of old streets, canals and wooden bridges that are almost too twee to be true.

Its attractive church , a seventeenth-century structure with a wonky medieval tower, has some graves of British airmen who perished in the Zuider Zee, while the small village museum beside the church, the Museum Hindeloopen (April–Oct Mon–Fri 11am–5pm, Sat & Sun 1.30–5pm; €3; w museumhindeloopen.nl), displays examples of Hindeloopen’s unusual furniture, although the largest display is at the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden.

The painted furniture of Hindeloopen

Until the seventeenth century, Hindeloopen prospered as a Zuider Zee port , concentrating on trade with the Baltic and Amsterdam. The combination of rural isolation and trade created a specific culture within this tightly knit community, with a distinctive dialect (Hylper–Frisian with Scandinavian influences) and sumptuous local dress . Adopting materials imported into Amsterdam by the East India Company, the women of Hindeloopen dressed in a florid combination of colours where dress was a means of personal identification: caps, casques and trinkets indicated marital status and age, and the quality of the print indicated social standing. Other Dutch villages adopted similar practices, but nowhere were the details of social position more precisely drawn. However, the development of dress turned out to be a corollary of prosperity, for the decline of Hindeloopen quite simply finished it off. Similarly, the local painted furniture showed an ornate mixture of Scandinavian and Oriental styles superimposed on traditional Dutch carpentry. Each item was covered from head to toe with painted tendrils and flowers on a red, green or white background, but the town’s decline resulted in the collapse of the craft. Tourism has revived local furniture-making, and countless shops now line the main street selling modern versions, though even the smallest items aren’t cheap, and the florid style is something of an acquired taste.

An old market town lying at the heart of an agricultural district, Leeuwarden was formed from the amalgamation of three terpen that originally stood on an expanse of water known as the Middelzee. Later it was the residence of the powerful Frisian Stadholders, who vied with those of Holland for control of the United Provinces. These days it’s Friesland’s capital, a university town with a laidback provincial air, its centre a haphazard blend of modern glass and traditional gabled terraces overlooking canals. It perhaps lacks the concentrated historic charm of many other Dutch towns, but it’s an amiable old place, with a couple of decent museums. Its most appealing feature is its compact and eminently strollable old centre, almost entirely surrounded and dissected by water. Leeuwarden is a real student town too, so it has a bit of life about it, not to mention a decent array of good-value places to eat and drink.

Leeuwarden’s most famous daughter, Mata Hari (1876–1917) was born Gertrud Zelle. Hari became a renowned “exotic” dancer after an early but unsuccessful marriage to a Dutch army officer. Although the Netherlands was neutral during World War I, Hari seems to have accepted a German bribe to spy for the kaiser. The French intelligence service soon got wind of the bribe – partly because she was also supposed to be working for them – and she was subsequently arrested, tried and shot. What she actually did remains a matter of some debate, but in retrospect it seems likely that she acted as a double agent, gathering information for the Allies while giving snippets to the Germans. Whatever the truth, there’s a small statue commemorating her at her partially clad best on Over de Kelders, erected on the hundredth anniversary of her birth in 1976.

Just 10km west of Bolsward, MAKKUM is a very agreeable place, a collection of immaculate houses, church towers, and canals, cobbled streets and wooden boats that’s saved from postcard-prettiness by a working harbour. It’s long been a centre for the manufacture of traditional, high-end Dutch ceramics , and the town is a bit of a magnet for coach parties during the summer, as well as a year-round sailing centre. But it never feels overwhelmed, and the Tichelaar workshops , Turfmarkt 65 (Mon–Fri 9am–5.30pm, Sat 10am–5pm; t 0515 231 341, w tichelaar.nl ), are worth a visit during your wander around the centre. You can have a look at the workshop out the back or just browse through the gallery-like shop, which is full of beautiful objects priced way beyond the reach of most people, before taking the weight off in its small Bakkerswinkel café.

Museumroute Aldfaerserf

Choosing the scenic route south from Makkum to Workum takes you along the Museumroute Aldfaerserf , in which the villages of Allingawier, Exmorra and others serve as open-air museums illustrating Frisian life in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Historical buildings have been restored and refurbished, regaining their historical functions as bakeries, carpenters’ shops, farms and smithies, and the 25km route can be done by car or bicycle. Bikes can be rented at the museum route’s base at Meerweg 4 in Allingawier (April–Oct Tues–Sun 10am–5pm; €5; t 0515 231 631, w aldfaerserf.nl ).

Of all the tiny hamlets in north Friesland, two of the most interesting lie on the Waddenzee. Moddergat , the more easterly of the two, spreads out along the road behind the sea wall 10km northeast of Dokkum, merging with the village of Paesens . At its western edge, a memorial commemorates the 1883 tragedy when seventeen ships sank during a storm, with the loss of 83 lives. Opposite, ’t Fiskerhuske Museum , Fiskerpad 4–8 (end Feb to Oct Mon–Sat 10am–5pm; July & Aug Mon closed but Sun 1–5pm; €4; w museummoddergat.nl ), comprises three restored fishermen’s cottages with displays on the history and culture of the village and details of the disaster: as such small museums go, it’s pretty good.

Huddled behind the sea dyke 5km to the west, Wierum has one main claim to fame, its twelfth-century church with a saddle-roof tower and (as in Moddergat) a golden ship on the weather vane. The dyke offers views across to the islands and holds a monument of twisted anchors to the fishermen who died in the 1883 storm and the dozen or so claimed in the century after.

With its thicket of boat masts poking out above the rooftops, it’s easy to spot Sloten from afar. It’s something of a museum piece, and the village’s 1000 inhabitants are proud to call Sloten one of Friesland’s eleven “cities”, and a medieval one at that. Encircled by water, it’s a popular spot with Dutch and German tourists alike – the delightful central canal, Heerenwal is flanked by plane trees and pavement cafés. On the bastion at Heerenwal’s far end, the De Kaai windmill provides a sort of focus, a working mill open on Saturdays for visits (April–Sept Sat 1–5pm; Oct–March Sat 10am–noon).There’s also a small museum , in the town hall on Heerenwal (April–Oct Tues–Fri 11am–5pm, Sat & Sun 1–5pm; €3; w museumsloten.nl ), but otherwise it’s just a case of wandering the cobbled alleyways and encircling bastions and admiring the gabled facades.

Twenty minutes by train from Leeuwarden, Sneek (pronounced snake ) was an important shipbuilding centre as early as the fifteenth century, a prosperous maritime town protected by an extensive system of walls and moats. Postwar development has robbed the place of some of its charm but there are still some buildings of interest, notably the grandiose Waterpoort at the end of Koemarkt, all that remains of the seventeenth-century town walls. At the beginning of August, crowds flock in for Sneek Week , an annual regatta, when the flat green expanses around town are thick with the white of slowly moving sails – and accommodation is almost impossible. The town is also known for its regional speciality, Beerenburg, a herb-flavoured gin, that you can buy at the Weduwe Joustra shop , at Kleinzand 32, which retains its original nineteenth-century interior, with the old barrels and till.

Named after the Frisian god Stavo, Stavoren is the oldest town in Friesland and was once a prosperous port; it’s now both the end of the train line and the departure point for ferries to Enkhuizen . Strung out along the coast, Stavoren is an eclectic mix of the old and new: the harbour is flanked by modern housing while the shipyards are linked by cobbled backstreets. Popular with yachty types, it’s a great place to admire the carefully restored seventeenth- to nineteenth-century vessels that once plied the Zuider Zee, now moored up and awaiting rental. On a sunny day, watching the old wooden ships go by and listening to the clink of halyards is as an enjoyable pastime as any. At the southern end of town, massive, squat turbines encased in glass can be seen pumping water out of Friesland and into the IJsselmeer.

Cycling around Stavoren

Stavoren is a good base for cycling. Options include following the coastal cycleway 10km north to Hindeloopen , or 5km south to Laaksum , past dark green and marine-blue lagoons with banks of reeds rustling in the wind. For a longer ride, continue through Laaksum and pick up the signposts to Oudemirdum , with its swathes of forest crisscrossed by cycleways and wooden bridges spanning pea-soupy canals. This 40-kilometre loop makes a pleasant day-trip, but bear in mind the winds can be forceful along the coast, and generally blow from the southwest.

Heavily protected by its sea defences, the town of Workum , ten minutes southwest of Sneek by train, is a very pleasant place that was until the early eighteenth century a busy seaport. It has a bustling main street and a pretty central square anchored by a seventeenth-century Waag , at Merk 4. This is now home to both the tourist office and a small museum exhibiting a standard nautical-historical collection (April–Oct Mon & Sun 1.30–5pm, Tues–Sat 10am–5pm; June–Aug also Mon morning; Nov–March Thurs–Sun 1.30–5pm; €2). Immediately behind is Friesland’s largest medieval church, the St Gertrudiskerk (April–Oct Mon–Sat 11am–5pm), with its enormous stand-alone bell tower and small collection of mostly eighteenth-century odds and ends inside.

Top image: Bourtange Fortress aerial view during sunset in the Province of Groningen. Fortress in shape of star near border of Netherlands and Germany © saleksv/Shutterstock

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Northern Netherlands

• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 7 Get around

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Northern_Netherlands\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Obscure among foreigners, the Northern Netherlands can be a pleasant surprise. This sparsely inhabited region is home to some stunning historic fortifications, lovely cities, great museums and excellent watersports opportunities. Its nature varies from vast heathlands to beautiful lake areas.

As soon as winter shows its face, the odd chance of the "eleven-city-tour", a major ice-skating event passing 11 pretty towns in Friesland and last held in 1997, becomes the talk of the day in all of the country. Although nature rarely allows for the tour to be held, it seems to have become part of the Dutch identity. There's a small chance you'll find yourself caught in the middle of that massive event (estimations state that, would the tour be held, it would become the biggest single event in the history of the country), but the region is a lovely destination even in high summer.

Most of the Northern Netherlands consists of a flat polder landscape, with the exception of Drenthe, which lies on a plateau and consists of heathlands.

• 53 6.55 1 Assen — Famously home to the Dutch TT Circuit, and therefore a prime destination for any MotoGP enthusiasts
• 53.0067 7.1917 2 Bourtange — Stunningly restored historic fortified town and an excellent day trip in the region
• 53.333333 6.916667 3 Delfzijl — Friendly harbour town and once every five years the scene for the bustling Delfsail boating event
• 52.7811 6.8994 4 Emmen — Home to one of the most well-known zoos in the country
• 53.218889 6.5675 5 Groningen — By far the biggest city of Northern Netherlands. Lively student city full of historic heritage and home to a top-notch museum
• 53.1736 5.4272 6 Harlingen - A charming harbour town with a light house among its many historic monuments
• 52.9658 6.0503 7 Heerenveen — The sports capital of the Northern Netherlands and home to the famous indoor ice-skating arena Thialf
• 53.2 5.783333 8 Leeuwarden — Scheduled to be European Capital of Culture in 2018, this provincial capital is full of modern and historic culture
• 53.0325 5.66 9 Sneek — At the heart of the Frisian Lake region and a centre for sailing and other water sports

Other destinations

• 53.366667 5.333333 1 West Frisian Islands — chain of islands along the Netherlands' Northern coast
• 52.8517 6.6094 2 Westerbork — Second World War transit camp, now a museum and several monuments
• Frisian Lakes — 24 interconnected lakes in Friesland, ideal for sailing
• 53.15 6.3833 3 Westerkwartier — rural area at the heart of the Northern Netherlands

Outside settlements, Friesland and Groningen mostly consist of meadows and arable land. Also, they are great areas for water-based activities such as sailing. Drenthe is a little different in that it also boasts large forests and more hilly terrain. Finally, the West Frisian Islands have a character all of their own.

Life is generally lived at a somewhat slower pace than in the west. Drenthe in particular is popular with people looking to move to a more quiet area after their retirement. Conversely, many young people leave the region looking for work.

Dutch is spoken in all three provinces, but in Friesland Frisian is an official language and widely spoken. Frisian is a unique language that is somewhere in between Dutch, English and the Scandinavian languages. Frisians won't expect foreigners do have any knowledge of the language, but knowing some basic sentences might give you a conversation topic. In Frisian towns, Stadsfries is spoken, a Dutch dialect that has been influenced by Frisian.

In Groningen and Drenthe, local dialects are used that are sometimes grouped together as "Dutch Low Saxon". The locals would use the name of their province or hometown as the name of their dialect, or they call them "Plat". In the south-east of Friesland, a Dutch Low Saxon variety known as "Stellingwerfs" is spoken. However, Dutch and English are universally understood in the whole region.

There are several highways heading north, and forming a backbone for the road system in the region. The A7 motorway takes you over the Afsluitdijk , and entering the Northern Netherlands from the North Holland Peninsula . Then there's the A6 , running north from Amsterdam via Flevoland , and the A28 from Utrecht and the Eastern Netherlands . From Germany, there is the A7 from East Frisia leading into Groningen, and the A37 from the Western Plains leading into Drenthe. For the rest, a good network of provincial roads make the region well accessible by car, motorbike and even bike, as apart from the highways, you'll find plenty of bike lanes.

All domestic train connections to the Northern Netherlands run via Zwolle . For the major destinations you will not have to change, however, as intercity trains run straight through from Leeuwarden and Groningen to destinations like Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport, Utrecht, The Hague and Rotterdam. Typically, two intercity trains run north every hour. In addition, there is a regional railway from Germany (the town of Leer ) leading into the Northern Netherlands. However, due to a damaged railway bridge, the railway border crossing is not operational (there are replacement bus services).

There are several bus routes that may be used to enter the Northern Netherlands. Bus route 350 is a bus connection over the Afsluitdijk , and if you want to get from Alkmaar to Bolsward or Leeuwarden , this is your fastest option (2 hr, €17). This bus can get pretty crowded during rush hour. For most other points of departure, trains are typically more convenient and faster to get to the major places. Long-distance bus routes are served by companies including Flixbus . Such long distance buses connect the city of Groningen (a transport hub for the Northern Netherlands) to Amsterdam, Enschede and Eindhoven , as well as international destinations including Oldenburg , Bremen , Hamburg . Berlin , and Brussels .

As for options via the air , Groningen Airport Eelde in Tynaarlo , just south of Groningen, has international flights to holiday destinations, as well as year-round scheduled flights to/from Copenhagen , London , and Gdansk . Other options include the airport in Bremen , Germany, for low fare carriers, or of course Amsterdam Schiphol Airport for a myriad of international connections (the train from Schiphol to the Northern Netherlands takes about 2 hours, e.g. a direct 2 hr 10 min train to Groningen).

Flat and wide, the Northern Netherlands are highly suited for biking and hiking , and many visitors explore at least a bit of the area that way. There are many ready-made routes, some indicated along the way and others to be bought at the tourist information centres you'll find in every mid-sized or larger town. As the Dutch love biking in general, there's also an abundance of route information online. However, with countless bike lanes and other biking facilities around, you'll have no trouble at all making your own way between the destinations of your choice, so hop on and get going! In most larger places you'll be able to find a rental bike; check the individual articles for listings.

The extensive public transport system serves virtually every corner of the region and leaves very few places truly unreachable by public transport. Trains are operated by NS (Dutch national railways: key connections to other parts of the country) and by Arriva (regional trains in Groningen and Friesland provinces). Although this region is remote in the eyes of the Dutch living in the Western Netherlands , it has over 60 train stations. Most are small, but they are a great help in terms of accessibility. Note however that there will be no staff of offices at most of these village stations.

Buses are operated by Arriva in the north and west of Friesland, and by Qbuzz in the remainder of the region, and include local, regional and fast interregional Qliner services. Large destinations like Groningen, Leeuwarden and Assen are typically served by a wide variety of bus services, and make good starting points to get to smaller towns. The website 9292.nl [ dead link ] provides a route planner for all public transport.

Roads are good and extensive, although the network of major highways is not as tight as it is in the west. If you're on your way to smaller destinations you may have to take the somewhat smaller N -roads, which are fine but have a speed limit of 80 or 100 km/h rather than 120/130. On the bright side however, roads are typically far less crowded than they are in other parts of the country.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or an arts fan; there's plenty of sights well worth visiting. Having survived the test of time, the massive stones of prehistoric dolmen are a silent reminder of the early inhabitants of the region. Some 54 of these Hunebedden (as the Dutch call them) remain and make for an interesting stop when exploring the region. If you want to know more, head for the one near Borger , as it is the largest one and has an archaeological museum next to it. Although there's no dolmen at the spot, the Drenths Museum in Assen also has information and a fine collection of prehistoric artefacts, including well-preserved bog bodies.

There's a lot of heritage from later times. The magnificent Fort of Bourtange is not only well restored, but also houses a history museum. There are several other fine examples of strongholds, including the Fraeylemaborg near Slochteren which is also a museum. The city of Groningen has a beautiful historic centre, with the tall Martini tower as a major landmark. If you have any interest in arts, don't miss the renowned Groningen Museum with ever changing but typically excellent collections of modern and classic arts. Of the many charming smaller historic towns, Appingedam with its hanging kitchens stands out, as does Franeker , with its monumental city hall and tiny but great 18th century orrery.

Wonderful nature can be found on the extensive heathlands in Drenthe, the tranquil Frisan Lakes area and on the northern coast line. Hop on a boat to spend the night on Texel or another one of the small islands in the Waddensea, all popular holiday destinations for the Dutch. Visit the earless seal rescue centre at Pieterburen or watch animals at the Emmen zoo.

Landscapes in the Northern Netherlands are wide and flat, making for perfect outdoor activities.

• Hiking and biking is popular, as the countryside offers anything from heathlands to forests and agricultural fields to lake areas. The rural areas are dotted with villages and the meadows with cows hold some typically Dutch vistas. Whether you're a trained biker or just rented a bicycle to explore some of the natural surroundings, the lack of hills and mountains offers great routes for everyone.
• Mudflat hiking deserves a mention of its own. At low tide, as the shallow Wadden Sea pulls back, it's temporarily possible to walk from the northern coast to one of the Frisian islands. These activities are best undertaken under the guidance of a professional guide. It's an activity unsuited for anyone with mobility problems, and it's a good hike, but it requires no special training. Good starting points include Pieterburen and Holwerd .
• Boating and sailing are enormously popular. The Frisian Lakes are an excellent starting point, but an extensive network of water ways and of course the Wadden Sea to the north make it possible to explore large parts of the Northern Netherlands by boat. Good places to start tours of the Frisian lakes include Sneek , Grou and Lemmer , although virtually every village on the lake sides has boat rental options.
• Ice skating is a major passion throughout the region. Slightly colder than the rest of the country and rich in natural waters as well as artificial ice skating tracks, the first opportunities for outdoor iceskating in the country often appear in the Northern Netherlands. Even if you're not planning on any ice skating for yourself, join one of the competitions when you can, as they're usually a fun way to encounter Dutch culture.

The coastal areas and the West Frisian Islands obviously have a long tradition of sea food dishes. The Wadden Sea shrimps and oysters are especially worth a try.

Going just a bit further land inward, however, traditional staples are typically heavy, nutritious goods like beans, grains and potatoes. As in many places, sweet dishes from these areas seem to have survived the test of time best and remain common both in family homes and on restaurant menus. Dúmkes , cookies with nuts, are popular on mainland Friesland and on the island of Ameland. Poffert , with varieties in Friesland known as boffert is a simple cake, holding the middle between brioche and cake and served in slices. Oudewievenkoek (or old lady's cake ) is a spiced cake with a taste of anise seeds widely available in the region.

There's a growing interest in locally produced goods and the region is rediscovering old traditions as well as establishing new ones. The island of Texel is famous for its mutton , which you might find on menus all over the country. Sheep cheeses are local specialities traditionally produced there and in other parts of the Northern Netherlands, including the heathland areas of Drenthe. Dried and spiced sausages are another popular regional product.

Beer is popular anywhere in the Netherlands, but in terms of production, bitters and gins play a much larger part in the Northern Netherlands. One of the largest distilleries in the country, Hooghoudt , was founded and still has its main offices in Groningen. Its products are favoured throughout the Northern Netherlands. It produces a wide range of liquors and gins, and adopted several traditional alcoholic drink recipes from the Northern Netherlands. Remarkably, it also produces a range of non-alcoholic lemonades.

Although originally from Amsterdam , the popularity of berenburg (made of Dutch gin and herbs) was initially larger in the Northern Netherlands. Regional varieties include Sonnema Berenburg and Weduwe Joustra . A Dokkumer coffee is the regional interpretation of an Irish Coffee, and consists of coffee with berenburg and whipped cream. The Frisian islands have their own kinds of bitters, called a Juttertje (on Texel) or Schylger Jutters-Bitter (on Terschelling). Less popular but surely traditional is Fladderak , a liquor flavoured with lemon and cinnamon.

The Netherlands are small and any other part of the country is just a few hours away at most. Cross the 32 km Afsluitdijk , the major causeway connecting the Northern Netherlands to the Western Netherlands , with all its famous Dutch attractions. Much less known, the Eastern Netherlands border the region to the south and have some unexpectedly good sights, including pleasant historic cities and rural castles. Alternatively, head east and cross the border into Germany , where you'll find yourself in Lower Saxony . Alternatively, you could drive straight through there and in less than 4 hours from the city of Groningen , you'd be at the Denmark border.

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The Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands That Aren’t Amsterdam

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Cheese, tulips, and canal houses. Most of the almost 20 million yearly visitors to the Netherlands only hit up the postcard sights in and around Amsterdam before they whizz off to the next European capital.

But such a whirlwind tour of this small-but-mighty country doesn’t do it justice: Between its pancake-flat farmlands and snaking river systems, the interior of the Netherlands is filled with towns and villages offering culture in spades. There are medieval castles and churches aplenty; pastoral landscapes with windmills and tulip fields plucked straight out of an Old Master’s painting. Many of the country’s biggest cities have a history as rich as Amsterdam’s, and equally picturesque canal belts—pretty bridges, cobblestoned lanes, and all—without the busloads of tourists shuffling around. Cities such as Eindhoven and Rotterdam sit at the cutting edge of Dutch Design, while beyond the urban hubs, there are grassy polder lowlands, wildlife-rich national parks, and miles of dune-hemmed beaches to explore on foot, kayak, or bicycle.

And it won’t take you much—time-wise and budget-wise—to reach any of it. Thanks to the country's relatively small size and expansive public transport network, getting from A to B is easy and affordable. Below are 23 destinations, one in almost every corner of the country, to add to your next Netherlands itinerary.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Katherine LaGrave and Caitlin Morton.

Wrapped in the Dutch countryside within easy day-trip distance from Amsterdam, Zaandam once stood at the heart of the Dutch milling industry. Remnants of these glory days can be found at Zaanse Schans, a short drive north from downtown, where a stroll through its jumble of windmills and clapboard houses feels like stepping into a real-life version of an Old Masters painting. Downtown, the ubiquitous Zaan-style architecture has gotten a mind-bendingly modern makeover at the landmark Inntel Hotel (an Escher-esque mash-up of traditional Zaanse houses), and the Zaandam City Hall, which reinterprets the shapes of Zaanse houses into minimalist masterpieces.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zaandam in 15 minutes.

For Dutch standards, the two-hour train ride to this northern city is a nearly impossible schlep, but the picturesque journey through rolling farmlands is well worth it. Criss-crossed with canals and dotted with monumental churches, Renaissance-era gardens, and warehouses dating back to the 16th century, Groningen is packed with history. But as one of the country’s main university towns, the city has a surprisingly forward-thinking nightlife scene too. Most of the action happens around de Grote Markt (Big Market) square, which hosts a lively fish and food market by day, and turns into a party hub after dark.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam with a transfer in Utrecht or Almere bring you to Groningen in about two hours.

Thought this place was pancake-flat? Most of it is, yes—but Maastricht and the surrounding Zuid Limburg countryside prove that there’s more to this land than polders and endlessly flat farmland. Start off in Maastricht, the country’s southernmost major city, where you can walk through centuries worth of history in its cathedrals and limestone mines. After, venture into the undulating hills, forests, and meadows of Zuid Limburg via picturesque towns such as Valkenburg and Gulpen, from which miles of walking and cycling trails roll into every direction. The area’s close proximity to Belgium and Germany make it possible to visit all three countries within a single day.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Maastricht in two and a half hours.

This tiny village in the country’s northeast is often referred to as the “ Venice of the Netherlands,”and it’s easy to see why. With its thatched-roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges, Giethoorn seems to have come straight out of a fairytale. It’s best explored via its network of bike lanes and canals—either by boat, or by ice skating during the frozen winter months. For a lay of the land, make the Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus your first stop. Set in a former farm, this museum walks guests through Giethoorn’s fascinating history via historic artifacts, hand-written letters, and hands-on workshops on old-timey cottage crafts.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zwolle in about an hour, from where buses link to central Giethoorn.

This picturesque fishing village is Holland’s best-known for a reason: It’s filled with colorful wooden houses, bobbing fishing boats, and seafood stall after seafood stall dishing up fish and chips, smoked eel, and pickled herring piled high with onions (to be eaten like the Dutch: in a single gulp). Once you’ve had your share of Volendam, hop on a ferry across the Markermeer lake to Marken, another old-timey Dutch village on a small island some 30 minutes away.

How to get there : Bus 316 leaves from Amsterdam Central station and brings you to Volendam in around 30 minutes.

Imagine a scene of the bucolic Dutch countryside, and the village of Kinderdijk is probably what comes to mind. In other words: lots of windmills. The village’s 19 monumental mills were built in the early 18th century to prevent flooding and keep soil dry, and the mill network has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Some of the mills, including Blokweer and Nederwaard, are open to the public and function as fascinating museums that share a peek into the lives of the families that once inhabited them.

How to get there : Buses leave from Rotterdam and bring you to Kinderdijk in about 30 minutes.

Alkmaar has many intriguing museums and lots of medieval architecture worth checking out, but most visitors flock here for one reason: cheese. The town is known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place on Friday mornings from April to early September. There’s plenty to see in other months too, though: There’s a cheese museum located in the 16th-century Waagtoren tower, half a dozen hofjes (almshouses) with gorgeous courtyard gardens, and a handful of ornately decorated churches dating back to the 17th century.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Alkmaar in just over 30 minutes.

Haarlem’s cobbled streets and pretty canals make this northern Dutch city feel like Amsterdam without the tourist crowds. Even its museums are of a similar caliber, with the renowned Frans Hals Museum exhibiting pieces by Dutch Masters such as Frans Hals and Pieter Bruegel, and its ‘Hal’ wing showcasing contemporary works by international artists. There are historic churches, market squares and quaint hofjes to explore, while the miles of dunes rolling along the coast make for a perfect break away from the city.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Haarlem in 15 minutes.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

This park is one of the largest in the Netherlands, and within its 13,343 acres, counts rare wildlife, some of the most iconic buildings in the country, and the Kröller-Müller Museum , which showcases a collection of nineteenth and twentieth century art in addition to the largest private collection of Van Goghs. Zoom around on a (free) white bike—the park has about 1,700 on loan at central locations.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Apeldoorn in an hour, from where buses link to various points around the park.

Wadden Sea Islands

The five islands in the Wadden Sea, part of an archipelago of about 50 islands that stretches all the way to Denmark , are some of the country’s best places to unplug. Each one has a unique character, but all deliver seaside tranquility in spades—windswept dunes, cheeky seals, frozen-in-time villages and all. Seek out Texel, the largest of the bunch, for its wildlife-rich nature reserves; opt for largely car-free Schiermonnikoog, if it’s beachside hiking you’re after; or plan a trip to Vlieland during its annual Into The Great Wide Open festival around September, which transforms the island into a giant laid-back music and arts exhibition.

How to get there : Ferries from different cities on the mainland (including Harlingen) with a seasonally-changing schedule bring you to each island in about one to one and a half hours.

If you make it this far up north to island hop around the Wadden Sea, it’s worth lingering in Leeuwarden, the capital city and main transport hub of the Friesland province. Stitched together by canals, its delightfully walkable city center is home to gorgeous historic architecture, including the Princessehof (the birthplace of illustrator M.C. Escher, and now a fascinating museum of ceramics) and the 16th-century Oldenhove tower, which tilts even further than the Tower of Pisa. Other buildings, such as the former Blokhuispoort jail, have become creative hubs. And just when you feel you've finally got a hang of the tongue-twisting Dutch language, you're in for a surprise: Frisian, not Dutch, is the dominant language here.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Leeuwarden in just over two hours.

You can’t visit the Netherlands and not seek out some of its famous technicolor tulips. There are many places around the country to view the beautiful flowers , but the Keukenhof Gardens (open from March to May) and sprawling fields around the town of Lisse are a sure thing. The floral frenzy is at its peak around mid-April, when the annual Bloemencorse Bollenstreek parade of flower-adorned floats will travel from Noordwijk to Haarlem, with a stop at the Keukenhof along the way.

How to get there : The Keukenhof Express bus from various locations around Amsterdam and Schiphol airport brings you to the Keukenhof in about 30 minutes.

Many people flock to Delft for its eponymous blue pottery, but don’t overlook the town’s Renaissance architecture and Vermeer Centre museum (the Dutch painter, famous for such works as Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Milkmaid , was born and died here). The compact size of its historic center make it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls: Stop for coffee along its canals, browse Delftware in its numerous boutiques, and sample cheeses at the cafe-lined Markt square in front of the Nieuwe Kerk, where a lively local market pops up every Thursday.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Delft in an hour.

If you like technology and design, head to Eindhoven, a southern city home to some of the country’s most envelope-pushing museums and design academies. Seek out the Van Abbemuseum for its modern and contemporary art; stop at industrial park-turned culture hub Strijp-S; and hit up the Inkijkmuseum , a micro-museum located in a former washhouse. The city is at its best during the yearly Dutch Design Week (the largest design fair in northern Europe), which takes over Eindhoven’s creative spaces every October .

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Eindhoven in just under one and half hours.

Utrecht’s historic canal houses have two stories, and its centuries-old wharf cellars now serve as spots to enjoy food and drinks at water level—something unique to this city. You can also enjoy the towering churches and cozy cafes of Utrecht by bicycle, as it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. It’s also the perfect place for history buffs, with sites like the Dom Tower and Centraal Museum offering glimpses into the country’s past.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Utrecht in 25 minutes.

Beemster Polder

About thirteen miles north of Amsterdam, the Beemster region is a prime example of a Dutch polder—a flat piece of green farmland formed by draining a body of water. Aside from its cultural significance (it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999), the Beemster Polder is a gorgeous landscape, complete with little canals, windmills, and lush green fields. Make sure to stop by Middenbeemster, which, like most towns in the country, is impossibly charming.

How to get there : Buses from various locations around Amsterdam bring you to the Beemster in about 30 minutes.

Holland’s second-largest city lost most of its heritage buildings during World War II bombings, but now leads the way in envelope-pushing architecture. Its skyline is a highlight reel of works by architecture greats such as Rem Koolhaas, who designed the gravity-defying De Rotterdam tower that soars above the Meuse river. Other standouts include the quirky cube houses ( for rent on Airbnb !) by Dutch architect Piet Blom; the horseshoe-shaped Markthal building by local architecture firm MVRDV; and the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, a bowl-shaped metallic edifice that’s home to the Boijmans Van Beuningen’s 151,000-piece art collection.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Rotterdam in 45 minutes.

Located near the Belgian border in the province of Limburg, Thorn is another one of those postcard-pretty Dutch hamlets with cobblestone roads and ancient churches. What makes Thorn unique, though, is its whitewashed architecture; at the Thorn Museum in the center of town, you’ll learn why this all-white look was an ingenious form of Medieval tax evasion. The other can’t-miss attraction is the 10th-century abbey church, which throughout history grew into a tiny kingdom ruled by noblewomen.

How to get there : From Amsterdam, trains to Weert take about two and a half hours, from where buses connect you to Thorn.

Amsterdam may be the capital, but the Dutch parliament meets in this stunning city on the North Sea. Within its Gothic-style Inner Court lie some of the country’s best museums, including an homage to M.C. Escher and the Mauritshuis (which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring ). Most locals, though, flock to The Hague for its beaches: long stretches of sand lined with lively boulevards, seafood restaurants, and breezy beach clubs.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to The Hague in 50 minutes.

Handily located in the heart of the country, Amersfoort is one of those typically Dutch cities with heaps of medieval buildings and canals snaking through its center—but none of the crowds spilling out of tour buses on its doorstep. To get the lay of the land, climb up the centrally-located Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren tower, which at 321 feet is the second-highest church in the country. From here, you can plot your route past the city’s historic highlights, including the 15th-century turreted Koppelpoort gate, the St. Joris church on the Hof square, or the muurhuizen (“wall houses”) that drip with wisteria each spring.

It’s not all old, though: De Nieuwe Stad, a former toothpaste factory complex on the center’s perimeter, has been revamped as a ‘city-within-a-city’ packed with galleries, co-working spaces, and restaurants. It’s one of the reasons why Amersfoort bagged the European City of The Year title in 2023.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam take about 30 minutes to Amersfoort's central station.

With its windswept dunes, frothy seas, and miles of caramel-colored beaches, this coastal province in the Netherlands’ sparsely populated southwestern tip couldn’t look more different from the rest of the country. Local Dutch folks flock here year-round to uitwaaien (liberally translated as “clearing one's head”). During the balmy summer months, you’ll find them crowding the beach clubs of popular resort towns such as Cadzand or Vlissingen, while in the autumn you can join them for long, windy hikes along the lonely coasts of Burgh-Haamstede and Oranjezon.

How to get there : The intercity train between Amsterdam and Vlissingen (about 2.5 hours) makes stops in Middleburg (Zeeland’s capital) and various Zeeland towns along the way.

As a Dutch answer to The Hamptons, the Gooi region, a hilly sprawl of lakes and forests dotted with country estates and historic mansions, is a hideaway for the country’s well-heeled who’s-who. You can find them sipping rosé on terraces spilling out onto the cobblestoned streets of villages such as Laren and Blaricum, or taking their sailboats for a spin at the nearby Loosdrechtse lakes. But even if you’re not in their tax bracket, the Gooi has plenty to offer: Miles of cycling trails wind past historic castles and fortresses; routes for kayaks and stand-up paddle boards weave through gorgeous wetlands; and the freely accessible sculpture garden around the Singer Laren museum is home to eye-popping pieces by contemporary Dutch artists.

How to get there : Hilversum, about 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, is the main getaway to the region. From here, buses and bicycle rentals connect to every corner.

De Biesbosch

The Netherlands might not be known as a wildlife destination, but De Biesbosch National Park , just southeast of Rotterdam, begs to differ. This sprawling patchwork of lakes, creeks, and riverine islands is one of Europe’s largest tidal wetlands and harbors a dazzling amount of wildlife. Rent a bike or kayak, or bring your walking boots, and map out a wildlife-spotting route over the well-marked trails that cross through forests and marshy flatland. To increase your chances of spotting the park’s most elusive residents such as owls, beavers, and wild boar, opt for a guided ‘safari’ at night, which can be arranged via the Visitors Center .

How to get there : Dordrecht is the main gateway to De Biesbosch, and is accessible by train from Amsterdam in about 1.5 hours. From there, you can take the Waterbus ferry or a BeverBuzz bus that operates seasonally in the summer months.

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Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

30 Most Beautiful Places In The Netherlands To Visit Told By A Dutch Local

Are you planning on visiting the most beautiful places in The Netherlands? Then you’re in for a treat. Here you will not only discover the most beautiful cities and villages in The Netherlands, but they are almost all offbeat places that you must visit in The Netherlands.

In The Netherlands there are so many beautiful places that you can and have to visit. The best part is that tourists, in general, are like sheep. They follow the crowds and masses. Which is a great thing for you, because you will almost completely have these hidden cities in The Netherlands to yourself. You will discover the best and most beautiful offbeat places in The Netherlands. Sometimes this means the most beautiful villages and the next time, the best small towns in The Netherlands. But one thing is for sure, you will be pleasantly surprised with these unique places to visit in The Netherlands and Holland. So enjoy this article on this The Netherlands travel blog and discover the most beautiful and offbeat places in The Netherlands.

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Visit the most beautiful places off the beaten path in The Netherlands

1. middelburg.

Middelburg is the capital city of the province of Zeeland in The Netherlands and is one of the places you must visit if you want to see the beauty of The Netherlands. This city dates back to 9th century and houses around 40.000 citizens.

When you’re visiting Middelburg there’s one thing you might not expect when you wander around. While this is one of the top cities to visit in The Netherlands, there wasn’t much left of it during the Second War. They started rebuilding the city during the war, but it ended up being destroyed again. In November 1944 Middelburg was freed and the the rebuilding started again. The incredible workers and architects kept the city as authentic as they could and rebuilt the city, stone by stone, back to the old  medieval Middelburg.

When you walk around Middelburg you will understand why I find it one of the best places to visit in The Netherlands and you cannot imagine that almost the entire city was rebuilt. You will wander through the ‘century-old’ abbey complex of Middelburg, discover the cutest cafes and explore one of the best museums of The Netherlands. Middelburg is definitely worth a visit. If you’re in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, then Middelburg is one of the best day trips from that city. But honestly, it’s worth at least a full day on its own.

Click here for the top things to do in Middelburg

2. Zaltbommel

Zaltbommel is a small, medieval city in the province of Gelderland. Bommel is the original name of this fortified town in The Netherlands and is still called that way by the locals. Zaltbommel dates back to around 850 and grew into an important trading city by the 13th century. By the 15th century Zaltbommel turned into a Hansa town.

When you’re taking a stroll through Zaltbommel you will get blown away by its atmosphere. It’s lively, but quiet. Beautiful and different. Small, but incredible. Zaltbommel has around 12.000 inhabitants, but somehow it feels much smaller. Not when it comes to things to do and see in Zaltbommel though. Because there’s plenty of great activities in Zaltbommel which makes this town in The Netherlands one of the places to go to.

There are plenty of things to do in Zaltbommel, The Netherlands. From walking through the old city centre, to visiting one of the most beautiful castles in The Netherlands, the city castle of Zaltbommel. This city castle in Gelderland houses a great museum nowadays.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Zaltbommel

3. Harlingen

Harlingen is one of the 11 cities of the province of Friesland. The entire province of Friesland was found on the Best of Europe list from Lonely Planet in 2018. But if you’re thinking that tourists are overflowing this province in The Netherlands, then you couldn’t be more wrong. That’s why visiting Friesland is always a great idea and one of the cities of Friesland you have to visit is Harlingen.

Harlingen is a seaside town and is called Harns in Frisian. Harlingen is located on the edge of the Unesco World Heritage Site the Wadden Sea. That’s one of the reasons why I think that Harlingen is one of The Netherlands best places to visit. But not only do you have incredible nature just around the corner, there are even tours that you can do to spot seals in their natural habitat. Or what to think about one of the other things that you must do in Harlingen?For instance, visit the Harlinger Aardewerk- en Tegelfabriek. Here you can find the traditional Harlinger pottery. Or walk around the century-old city of Harlingen, The Netherlands, and discover its canals. If you’re still not convinced that Harlingen is one of the top cities to visit in The Netherlands, then I don’t know what will convince you.

A fun fact about Harlingen, Friesland, is the fact that Harlingen is an older city than Amsterdam. Harlingen got its city rights back in 1234, while Amsterdam only got them around 1300. Many believe that Harlingen is the most beautiful town of Friesland, The Netherlands, and I cannot disagree with them.

Discover all the destinations you have to visit in Friesland here

Another one of the beautiful cities to see in The Netherlands is the fortified town of Sloten, that dates back to the 13th century. This small town is one of the 11 cities of Friesland and also the smallest city of Friesland. With around 760 inhabitants, Sloten is one of the smallest cities of The Netherlands. And around this city in The Netherlands you’ll only find the countryside.

But don’t let the fact that it’s a small city fool you. The city of Sloten is a true dream and as you walk between the old buildings it takes you back to centuries ago. One of the many great things that there is to do in Sloten is visiting the mill. On Saturdays it’s opened and run by volunteers. The best part is that you can get freshly grained flour and other products in the shop of the mill of Sloten.

Sloten is one of the places to visit in The Netherlands, because it’s a beautiful city that completely charms you as soon as you walk into it. The canal, the buildings, the people. It’s a wonderful combination.

Find the best itinerary to spending one day in Sloten, Friesland, here

5. Amersfoort

A beautiful city to visit in the province of Utrecht, is the city of Amersfoort. While quite some people nowadays visit the city of Utrecht, not many have heard of Amersfoort while it’s located near Utrecht. Amersfoort is named after a fort in the Amer river, which is nowadays called the Eem. The city dates back to around the 11th century.

There are a lot of great things to do in Amersfoort. One of the must sees of Amersfoort is the Mondriaanhuis, because Amersfoort is the city of Piet Mondriaan. He was born at the Kortegracht and was one of the founders of the art movement De Stijl. Another must do in Amersfoort is a walking tour, the city has more than 400 monuments and two protected cityscapes. All of this combined makes Amersfoort one of the best cities in The Netherlands to visit.

Find the perfect one day itinerary with the best things to do in Amersfoort here

You’re thinking of visiting The Netherlands, but don’t know where to go? The city of Hoorn is a gorgeous city in the area of West- Friesland, province of Noord-Holland and around 30 minutes from Amsterdam. Not only is this city extremely beautiful, it’s also very quiet and peaceful. Yet, bustling at the same time. Hoorn is a city that has the feeling and atmosphere of a village, which I very much enjoy. The first similar name of Hoorn was used in the 8th century, but the town burned down and it took a while before it was rebuilt. The new city of Hoorn dates back to around the 12th century.

Hoorn is a city that, although it’s small, has plenty of things to do and see. Hoorn is located on the edge of one of the biggest lakes of The Netherlands, the Markermeer. That means that if you’re a fan of activities on the water, that you will love Hoorn. If don’t enjoy water, there are still many things that you can do in Hoorn. Think of walking through the old city, discover the little alleys and explore the West Fries Museum.

Click here for the perfect itinerary and the things to do in one day in Hoorn 

7. Dordrecht

Dordrecht is a beautiful city that can be found in the province of Zuid-Holland. It’s a city that is mostly known in The Netherlands for having the biggest Christmas market of The Netherlands, but there are plenty of things to do in Dordrecht as well.

While this city is located in the province of Zuid-Holland with cities such as Delft, Rotterdam, Gouda and The Hague, the visitors of those cities often don’t visit this beautiful city of Dordrecht. And it’s time for a change. Dordrecht is located on a big island and from the moment you walk into Dordrecht you will be pleasantly surprised. From the beautiful buildings, to cute cafes on every corner. And from getting a real understanding of the lives of the citizens as there are barely any tourists, to eating at incredibly special restaurants.

Dordrecht is one of the places to visit in The Netherlands. Dordrecht has plenty of things to do and places to visit, but as long as you wander around the city you’ll be in for a real treat. When you’re talking to the locals, it’s very much possible that they refer to the city of Dordrecht as Dordt.

Things to do in one day in Dordrecht itinerary

Breda is a city that is located in one of the provinces that’s not often visited by tourists, Noord- Brabant. Noord- Brabant is a beautiful underrated province and you’ll soon understand why. The city of Breda is also named the Pearl of the South in it’s anthem of Breda, with a very good reason.

Breda dates back to around 1125 and was nothing more than a small village at that time. But, that significantly changed and over time Breda even is known for being a Nassau city as it has very strong connections to the Dutch Royal Family. When you wander through Breda you will discover courtyards, beautiful streets and even a castle.

One of the things you have to do in Breda is to visit the Begijnhof. This courtyard is located in the centre of Breda and divided into two courtyards and a garden with herbs. As the Begijnhof is located close to one of the best parks of Breda another thing to do is visiting the Park Valkenberg. All of that, and more, makes Breda one of the best places to see in The Netherlands.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Breda

9. Roermond

Another one of the top places to visit in The Netherlands is the city of Roermond. Roermond is located in the province of Limburg that’s also well-known for the city of Maastricht. Limburg is one of the only provinces in The Netherlands that has a hilly surrounding and even has the highest hill of The Netherlands at around 322 meters. Which is actually high if you think that some parts of our country are 6 meters below sea-level.

With that said, the hills are not the region why you should visit Limburg and the city of Roermond. While the city dates back to 1100 Roermond is mostly known for the Designer Outlet Roermond. But trust me when I say that the beautiful city of Roermond, The Netherlands, has so much more things to visit than that. Discover the beautiful alleys, the great markets of Roermond and many other must sees. There are plenty of things to do in Roermond, think of visiting the Maasplassen (lakes), eating Burgundian food and exploring the stunning monuments.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Roermond

10. Groningen

This city is the capital of the province of Groningen, The Netherlands, and is one of the cities to visit. It’s also a very popular city for students. However, it’s also a very beautiful city in the Northern part of The Netherlands. The canals, the liveliness, the beautiful buildings and the great cafes make Groningen the perfect city to visit.

Whether you’re interested in museums, nature or a relaxing atmosphere, you can find it in Groningen. The province of Groningen has it’s own dialect and they call Groningen either Grunn, Grunnen or Stad. When you’re in Groningen and looking for what to do, then I can recommend you to try the regional food of Groningen such as an eierbal. But also one of the things you must do in Groningen is visit some of the great, local markets and if you dare, rent a bike. The city is quite big and although you can walk through Groningen, there are so many things to do and see that’s easier to rent a bike if you only have one day in Groningen.

Get the best itinerary for spending one magical day in Groningen here

Some of the most beautiful places in The Netherlands are the Hansa towns. These century-old towns and cities were part of the Hanseatic League, which was a commercial and defensive confederation of market towns and merchant guilds in Northwestern and Central Europe. Zwolle used to be one of them.

The city of Zwolle is located in the province of Overijssel and is not popular with tourists just yet. The people from Zwolle are called Zwollenaren and as of now more than 120.000 people may be called that way. Zwolle is a surprising city. From incredible buildings, to regional food. From one of the most special museums to the calming atmosphere. Somehow Zwolle has it all.

One of the things you have to do in Zwolle is visiting the Museum de Fundatie. This museum is a museum for fine arts and has a very interesting building that you have to admire. Zwolle is definitely one of the places to go to in The Netherlands and one of the most beautiful places to visit.

Find a free walking tour for Zwolle here!

12. Bergen op Zoom

The city of Bergen op Zoom is very charming and also houses the oldest still existing company of The Netherlands. Hotel De Draak (pictured below) is established in 1397 and is the oldest hotel of The Netherlands. The building of this houses has survived several city fires and is still shining as of today. So when you visit Bergen op Zoom, one of the things you have to do is stay in Hotel De Draak. It’s one of the best and most interesting places to stay in The Netherlands.

Bergen op Zoom has a long history, which can be felt when you walk through the city. One beautiful street after the next, the Bourgondian feeling of the province of Noord- Brabant and the atmosphere. You won’t find much tourists in Bergen op Zoom as of yet, but tourist offices are starting to promote this area a bit more now. However, you will still have the most of one of the most beautiful cities in The Netherlands to yourself.

One of the things you have to do in Bergen op Zoom, The Netherlands, is to bring a visit to the Markiezenhof. This is a city palace that dates back to the 15th century and is very well preserved. As of now you will find many exhibitions about nobilities and their way of living in this museum in Bergen op Zoom. I personally find it one of The Netherlands most special landmarks.

Click here for an article on the best things to do in one day in Bergen op Zoom

Kampen is another Hansa town in The Netherlands you have to visit. The old city of Kampen is located in the province of Overijssel and has around 35.000 inhabitants. The town of Kampen is located on a peninsula on the lower section of the river the Ijssel.

One of the reasons why Kampen is one of the great cities in The Netherlands you have to visit is because of its cityscape. A big part of the city of Kampen is a protected cityscape, with a very good reason because it’s truly stunning. One of the things to do in Kampen is to visit the city gardens. But another thing to do in Kampen are the beautiful monuments. Kampen has a lot of city gates that are very well preserved as well as stunning buildings and plenty of more things to see. All of that, and more, makes Kampen one of the best places to visit in The Netherlands.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Kampen

One of the most beautiful places in Friesland, The Netherlands, is the city of Ijlst. Ijlst is one of the 11 cities of Friesland and feels like a true fairy tale. From the one canal that flows through the town, to the beautiful countryside in this part of The Netherlands just outside of it. The gardens that you see in the photo below are very rare in The Netherlands nowadays.

The city is quaint, small and surprising. Ijlst got its borough right back in 1268. And the best part of Ijlst? Not much people visit Ijlst, The Netherlands. Somehow most Dutch people forget this city exists, let alone foreign tourists.  That and all things you can do in Ijlst, make it one of the most underrated small cities of The Netherlands and Friesland to visit.

This is definitely one of the best places of The Netherlands to visit. Even though the city isn’t very big, you can easily make a full or half a day trip to the city of Ijlst from any town in Friesland.

Click here for the best things to do in Ijlst

15. Vlissingen

Another beautiful place to visit in the province of Zeeland, The Netherlands, is the city of Vlissingen. Vlissingen is located on what was previously an island called Walcheren and if you’re looking for where to go in The Netherlands, then you will love Vlissingen. The town itself has around 33.000 inhabitants. The best part of Vlissingen is its location. Vlissingen is located on the sea side, so you not only can explore a beautiful city but also visit one of the best beaches of The Netherlands.

One of the things you have to do in Vlissingen, The Netherlands, is visiting festivals. Somehow Vlissingen is a perfect place for festivals and you better make the most of it. The 5th May (liberation day in The Netherlands) festival in Vlissingen is one of the biggest of The Netherlands with around 40.000 visitors. As well as the filmfestival in Cine City in Vlissingen in September.

But when you’re visiting Vlissingen on other dates, there’s still plenty of things to do and see in Vlissingen. Vlissingen has a protected cityscape and around 300 monuments. Vlissingen is located on the 30th spot when it comes to the amount of monuments within cities in The Netherlands. That makes this one of the best places and cities to visit in The Netherlands. Don’t forget to visit the wind chime on the Southern pier.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Vlissingen

16. Heusden

The town of Heusden is a restored fortified town in the province of Noord- Brabant, The Netherlands. The city of Heusden has around 1500 inhabitants. A big part of the town was destroyed just before Heusden was freed in November 1944. Heusden was restored for 40 years, starting in 1968 and ending in 2008. They completely restored the city of Heusden into the original town. Its city scape is protected.

The best part of Heusden, The Netherlands, is that it’s such a relaxing town that just wandering around is already amazing. It’s also located on the countryside of The Netherlands. The street plan dates back to the Medieval times. One of the things you have to do in Heusden, The Netherlands, is visiting a pancake restaurant in Heusden.  De Pannekoekenbakker in Heusden has some of the best pancakes of The Netherlands.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Heusden

17. Nijmegen

If you were wondering what the oldest city of The Netherlands is, then you’ve come to the right place. Nijmegen celebrated their 2000-year existence back in 2005 and is one of the best places to visit around The Netherlands. The city of Nijmegen was part of the Roman Empire for many years and is a great place to visit for anyone who likes offbeat places in The Netherlands.

Nijmegen is a beautiful city that is located in the province of Gelderland and remains not often visited by foreign tourists, unless they’re in Nijmegen during the walk of the world which is the biggest walking event of The Netherlands and exists out of 4 days of walking.

Nijmegen is a city that has plenty of things to do. From beautiful beaches on the side of the Waal river that flows through the city, to nature reserves just outside of Nijmegen. And from the cutest cafes, to visiting one of the oldest bars or pubs of The Netherlands. And if you’re into museums, then Nijmegen will also be one of the best places for you to go in The Netherlands.

Find the best things to do in one day in Nijmegen here

18. Hasselt

The town of Hasselt is yet another Hansa town in The Netherlands you have to visit. Hasselt is located in the province of Overijssel and has the river Zwarte Water flowing through its town. The first humans were living in Hasselt (that didn’t exist yet) and its surroundings around 1000 before Christ, which is mind blowing. Hasselt was an important trade city because it had the perfect location for important waterways and roads.

A great thing about Hasselt is that the city is very green and has a lot of nature. One of the things you have to do in Hasselt, The Netherlands, and its surroundings is visiting the rare nature reserves in the areas. This city in The Netherlands is a true beauty, and there are many villages in this area of The Netherlands as well.

One of the things I would recommend you to do and see in Hasselt, The Netherlands, are the lime kilns. These are located just out of the centre of Hasselt and were the only working lime kilns in Western Europe back in 1990. At the lime kilns there’s a museum as well in this part of Hasselt, The Netherlands. It’s only opened for a short while (1st of June – 9th of September), but worth a visit. This is one of the most special landmarks of The Netherlands you have to visit.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Hasselt

Elburg is located in the province of Gelderland and borders the Veluwe and Dronter lake. This is one of the most beautiful places in The Netherlands and is also a Hansa town. It’s mostly known for having an almost completely straight street plan, which was very unusual during the Medieval Ages. The town has around 12.000 inhabitants.

One of the things you have to do in Elburg is watch at the sidewalks. While that might sound as a weird thing to do in Elburg, I can assure you it has a reason. At the sidewalks in front of some old buildings you will see white pebbles with figures of black pebbles. They were made from boulders that were found on a hill a bit further away. In the 18th century it was very normal to create these kind of sidewalks. Then it emerged into a sort of masons folk art where decorations and special figures were created. Another one of the things to do and see in Elburg, The Netherlands, is the Museum of Elburg. It’s definitely worth a visit. Elburg is, in my opinion, one of The Netherlands most beautiful places.

Click here for the best things to do in Elburg in one day

20. Enkhuizen

The city of Enkhuizen is known as the ‘Haringstad’ or herring city. In the past Enkhuizen was the centre for fishing on herring. As of now, the city is mostly known for it’s perfect location at the biggest lake of The Netherlands, Ijsselmeer. Enkhuizen is one of the many beautiful cities in The Netherlands and one of the best things to do in Enkhuizen is to visit the best open air museum of The Netherlands, Zuiderzeemuseum.

The Zuiderzeemuseum is an outdoor and indoor museum in The Netherlands. Here you will learn everything about the maritime and cultural history of the previous Zuiderzee area. The museum was first founded back in 1948.

Another great thing to do and see in Enkhuizen, Noord-Holland, is to walk through the city centre of Enkhuizen. The canals are gorgeous, as well as the buildings and the ramparts of the 17th century are in a perfect state. And another great thing about Enkhuizen and it’s surroundings is that as soon as you leave the city, you will find The Netherlands countryside at its best.

Things to do in one day in Enkhuizen

21. Aldeboarn

Aldeboarn (Frisian), or Oldeboorn in Dutch, is one of the most beautiful villages of The Netherlands. While it’s small, as it’s a village, it’s also very cute. As soon as you enter the village it’s like a relaxing atmosphere floods all over you. This beautiful village is located in the province of Friesland, The Netherlands, and has almost 1500 inhabitants.

Because it’s so small and the village is beautifully restored, Aldeboarn is one of the best places to see in The Netherlands. And definitely one of The Netherlands best villages to visit.

Sit by the water side and enjoy the boats that pass by and the beautiful buildings. You will see a few cyclists pass by as you feel the rays of sun on your face. As I’ve said before, the village of Aldeboarn is small, but there are still plenty of things to do and see in the village and its surroundings.

Click here for all the things to do in Aldeboarn and its surroundings

22. Harderwijk

Harderwijk is one of the places you have to to go in The Netherlands. The stunning city of Harderwijk is located in the province of Gelderland and is another Hansa town in The Netherlands. This town is known for having a protected city scape since 1969 and has around a hundred monuments.

One of the best things to do in Harderwijk, The Netherlands, is visiting the Grote/ Onze Lieve Vrouw Kerk. This church is a basilica that partly dates back to the end of the 14th century. You can visit this church in Harderwijk from the 27th of April until Monument day (around the 9th of September) from Monday – Thursday from 13:30- 16:30. During the months of July and August you can visit this church in Harderwijk from Monday – Saturday from 13:30 until 16:30. It’s definitely one of The Netherlands most special sites. There are even very special murals found in this church. Another great thing to do in Harderwijk is to discover the century-old medieval centre.

Things to do in one day in Harderwijk

23. Appingedam

Appingedam is, aside from Groningen, the only city in the province of Groningen that dates back to the Medieval Ages. This picturesque city in The Netherlands is mostly known for its ‘hanging kitchens’ or as we call it in Dutch, Hangende Keukens. People who wanted to increase the space in their house were only allowed to do that in one way, to built the kitchens on the outside of their houses. This way it seems like the kitchens are falling of the buildings. Luckily this is not the case.

One of the best things to do in Appingedam, The Netherlands, is to visit the Museum Stad Appingedam. In this museum you will discover how and why Appingedam was a very wealthy city, as well as discover a big collection of silver in the museum. The city had its own silversmiths. Something else that you will love about Appingedam is seeing the small alleys, the beautiful facades and the central square with a beautiful church. Appingedam is a small town, but definitely one of the interesting places in The Netherlands that you should visit.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Appingedam

24. Deventer

Deventer, also called Dèmpter in the local dialect, is another beautiful Hansa town in The Netherlands. Deventer is located in the province of Overijssel and is one of the oldest cities in The Netherlands. Deventer has been an official city since at least 952. One of the things you have to do in Deventer is walk through the city. Deventer has the oldest stone house, the oldest park and the oldest scientific library of The Netherlands.

Besides that, in Deventer you can find plenty of other things to do. Deventer is one of the best places to visit in The Netherlands in winter as it has one of the best Christmas markets of The Netherlands. So if you’re looking for things to do in The Netherlands in December, then visiting Deventer is a great idea.

Deventer has a lot of great shops, brown cafes and great restaurants as well. It’s very easy to spend one full day in Deventer, but even a weekend in Deventer will be a good idea as the surroundings are very beautiful as well.

Find the best things to do in one day in Deventer here

25. Bolsward

One of the most beautiful places to visit in The Netherlands is the city of Bolsward. Bolsward is a city that is located in the province of Friesland and was built on three mounds, which are still visible today. One of the churches of Bolsward, the Sint Martini church is actually located on one of the mounds.

Bolsward is a small city that has many things to do. Not only can you find beautiful canals and historic buildings, but there’s also a great brewery in Bolsward where you can get tastings. One of my favourite things about Bolsward is that it’s a cosy, very clean and peaceful Frisian city in The Netherlands, where people still say hi to strange people. The magical combination of friendliness in a cute city make Bolsward, The Netherlands, one of the most beautiful places to visit in my country.

Find out what to do in one day in Bolward here

26. Brielle

The fortified city of Brielle, also named Den Briel, is a city that is located in the province of Zuid- Holland, The Netherlands. Brielle is located on the island of Voorne and has around 12.000 inhabitants. A part of Brielle is a protected city scape and this medieval city in The Netherlands has almost 400 monuments. Together with the city of Harlingen, Brielle has the most monuments per inhabitants of The Netherlands. Not much tourists visit Brielle which makes it one of the hidden cities of The Netherlands.

Not much has changed in the city of Brielle since 1713, which means that the defenses are some of the best and most important fortifications of The Netherlands. One of the things you have to do in Brielle is to have a look at the facades of the buildings. You can find many plaques on the buildings that make entire stories. Can you discover what they mean?

Brielle is also famous for historical museum Den Briel, or Historisch Museum Den Briel. I can definitely recommend you to visit this museum to discover the history behind the city and more. Explore one of the secret places of The Netherlands with Brielle, you won’t be disappointed.

Find what to do in Brielle in one day here

Leiden is probably most known city on this list, however it’s still not that popular as its counterparts of Delft, Rotterdam and Utrecht. Leiden is one of the best cities in the province of Zuid- Holland, The Netherlands, and has the second biggest historical city centre of The Netherlands which is also a protected city scape. Many famous painters were born and raised in Leiden. Think of Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Steen, Gerrit Dou and Frans van Mieris de Oudere. The city of Leiden is also named ‘sleutelstad’, or key city. This refers to the city coat of arms. Leiden also houses the oldest university of The Netherlands.

Leiden has plenty of things to do, such as admiring the oldest theater of The Netherlands with the Leidse Schouwburg that dates back to 1705. But one of the things many people don’t do in Leiden is visiting the courtyards. The city of Leiden has plenty of courtyards, cute alleys and plenty of more things to explore. It’s also one of the best places to visit near Amsterdam, The Netherlands. One of the best walking tours and routes of Leiden is the ‘De Leidse Loper’.

Click here for articles on where to eat the best food in Leiden

28. Naarden

The town of Naarden is located in the province of Noord- Holland and most known within The Netherlands for its beautiful star fortress. This fortified city in The Netherlands is located near Amsterdam and is one of the best preserved and renovated offbeat places in The Netherlands. You can find beautiful monuments here, great museums and the first nature reserve of The Netherlands is located just outside of this beautiful.

Another thing you must do in Naarden, The Netherlands, is to visit The Netherlands fortress museum. In this museum you will discover the turbulent past of the fortified city of Naarden. From exciting stories to horror stories. All are part of the history of the Naarden fortress. You will find out and explore how the garrison lived and worked in Naarden, while at the same time defending the wealthy region of ‘Holland’ from the threatening East.

Naarden is one of the best small towns in The Netherlands. With cute streets, great cafes and a wonderful atmosphere.

Click here for an itinerary to spending one day in Naarden

29. Schiedam

The history of the city of Schiedam dates back to the 13th century. Schiedam is located in the province of Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands. Visiting Schiedam is a great idea, especially as a day trip from The Hague or Rotterdam. It’s mostly known for its gin production, the highest authentic wind mills of the world and the historical centre with its harbours. The historical harbours are called canals in other Dutch cities, but somehow in Schiedam they stick to the harbours.

One of the things you have to do in Schiedam is to visit the National Jenevermuseum. This gin museum is not only very interesting to discover the history of gin and gin production in The Netherlands, but also has a ‘proeflokaal’: a place for tasting gin. The museum has a historical distillery where gin is made via the original old Dutch method and tradition with a recipe from the 17th century. After the gin is created, it has to rest. After three years it’ll be bottled and named ‘Old Schiedam’.

Other must do’s and sees in Schiedam are the city centre and the galleries and ateliers in Schiedam. The creative sector is alive and well in Schiedam and you can find many artists here.

Stay tuned for an article on the things to do in one day in Schiedam

A beautiful city to visit in Friesland is the town of Workum. Workum, or Warkum in Frisian, is one of the best destinations to travel to within Friesland and The Netherlands. It’s a city that belongs to one of the 11-cities of Friesland. Workum is a city that has borough rights since 1399 and a part of the town is a protected city scape.

Workum offers plenty of things to do. From regional Dutch pottery to kitesurfing. And from a beautiful walk on a centuries old path to discovering great restaurants. Workum is one of the nice places you have to visit in The Netherlands.

Click here for the things to do in Workum in one day

HELP OTHERS DISCOVER THESE BEAUTIFUL PLACES! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS!

Have you ever been to one of these most beautiful places in The Netherlands already? If yes, which one and what did you think of the place? If not, would you like to visit these medieval offbeat towns in The Netherlands? These cities are definitely worth a visit, otherwise I wouldn’t include them. But there are a few more places that I recommend you to go to, however they’re a bit more known.

The first city is Alkmaar and can be found in Noord-Holland. The next city is Maastricht and is found in the Southern province of Limburg. The last city is the city of Delft , that is very known for the Delfts pottery and can be found in the province of Zuid- Holland. For when you want to visit Amsterdam, but in a local way, I can recommend you to read this 2 days itinerary by a local for Amsterdam.  You can even discover the best typical Dutch food and cuisine to eat in The Netherlands and Amsterdam here.

Do you think you know a lot about Amsterdam? Then test yourself with this article on the most interesting facts of Amsterdam.  Are you looking for the best budget accommodation in Amsterdam, then here you will find the cheapest hostels and campings of Amsterdam.

And are you wondering what you should pack when you’re visiting Amsterdam and The Netherlands? Then you will find this packing list for The Netherlands and Amsterdam very useful. You might also be interested in discovering the best carry-on and minimalist backpacks for travel that you can find if you click here.  Or are you searching for the best women’s shoes to bring on your European adventure? Then you’re in luck. I’ve created a perfect guide to the best women’s walking boots, sandals and sneakers for your Europe travels.

Do you not want to get lost in The Netherlands or are you looking for the best travel apps to use in The Netherlands and Amsterdam, then find them here.  These apps can be very useful for your travels in The Netherlands as the app 9292 for instance, makes it easy to visit these places by public transport. But also when you’re planning on doing this perfect spring road trip itinerary in The Netherlands. You will see local tulip fields, a beautiful Wadden Island and plenty of more offbeat places in The Netherlands. Or maybe you can visit the beautiful island of Schiermonnikoog as well?

4 thoughts on “ 30 Most Beautiful Places In The Netherlands To Visit Told By A Dutch Local ”

Thanks for this article, it’s very useful. I live in The Netherlands and there are so many places I want to visit

I’m very glad to hear that Irene! There are so many beautiful places to see in The Netherlands, so I’m happy I’m able to inspire you to visit some of them 🙂

Have a good day, Manon

These places are so cute. I used to visit the Netherlands a lot when I was younger (like really young) with my grandparents and we went to some lovely places but since becoming an adult I only seem to go back to Amsterdam. I know, I know! But the list is showing that I need to do a road trip around the Netherlands. I’ve been saying for far too long that I’d love to return to Efteling Park as I remember loving it as a kid. I think I should finally do it and check out some of these places as well. Breda and Bergen op Zoom look close by… I feel a plan forming haha

Hahaha, I’m glad that you’re at least aware of the fact that you only tend to visit Amsterdam. But I’m very happy to hear that you’re interested in seeing more of the country again than just Amsterdam. Honestly, the Noord- Brabant province (where the Efteling is located, as well as Breda & Bergen op Zoom) is lovely! And I definitely think that you will love visiting it again! The Efteling is still my favourite theme park I’ve ever visited. Upcoming June is going to be the month where I’m completely going to focus on that certain province and will publish all villages, cities and nature reserves I’ve visited there, so stay tuned for that! Although… It probably will make your trip a tad longer than you might have in mind haha

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15 Beautiful Places in the Netherlands You Need to See

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Located in Northwestern Europe, with much of its territory below sea level, it’s no wonder everyone talks about the Netherlands as a land of wonderful canals. But that’s just one of this country’s many appeals. Scattered throughout, you will also find picturesque windmills, colorful flower fields, idyllic villages, and vibrant cities rich in art, culture, and history.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

How to get there: Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, the primary gateway, offers numerous direct flights from global cities. For a quieter arrival, consider flying into Rotterdam The Hague Airport or Eindhoven Airport, both of which serve international destinations.

When to visit: The best time to visit the Netherlands is from mid-June to the end of September. During these months, the weather is at its finest – warm but not too hot, perfect for leisurely canal cruises and bicycle tours through the countryside. This period also bursts with vibrant life, hosting numerous festivals and outdoor events that showcase Dutch culture and hospitality.

Getting around: Public transportation here is a breeze; trains, buses, and trams are timely and well-connected, making it simple to hop from one city to the next. For unlimited travel, consider grabbing a Holland Travel Ticket – it’s your all-access pass to public transportation throughout the country for a day. Yet, to truly immerse yourself, cycling is the way to go. With an extensive network of bike paths and flat terrain, renting a bicycle allows you to explore efficiently and enjoyably. And don’t forget to explore on foot – walking through cities like Amsterdam reveals hidden gems and stunning architecture at every corner.

Travel resources: Booking.com is my go-to for hotels, offering everything from cozy B&Bs to canal-side stunners. If you prefer vacation rentals, Plum Guide features top-quality homes, ensuring a memorable stay. Skyscanner helps me snag the best flight deals, while Auto Europe offers reliable car rentals at competitive prices. Finally, Viator is my secret weapon for finding unforgettable tours and experiences, from cheesemaking workshops to canal cruises.

Some tips to enhance your trip: Always carry cash, as some shops and eateries don’t accept credit cards. Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. If you plan to visit museums, consider getting a Museumkaart for free entry to over 400 museums nationwide – it’s a huge money-saver. Purchase an OV-chipkaart for convenient access to all public transportation. Don’t miss trying local delicacies like stroopwafels and bitterballen. Download a map app that works offline. Learn a few Dutch phrases; it’s appreciated by locals and can enhance your interactions.

Here are 15 of the most beautiful places to see in the Netherlands, from charming cheese markets to beautiful parks to ever-seductive Amsterdam:

A picturesque cluster of canals over the Amstel River in the province of North Holland, Amsterdam is the largest and most alluring city in the Netherlands. Vibrant, cosmopolitan, and steeped in culture, it greets visitors with fabulous museums, exciting nightlife, and a decidedly unique café scene.

For a complete experience in the Dutch capital, don’t miss the illustrious Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, or Anne Frank House.

Also, make sure you fill out your itinerary with long strolls around Grachtengordel – the central area where the city’s main canals, bridges, and quaint 17th-century canal houses reside; and a foray into the controversial Red Light District – once famous for cannabis coffee shops and neon-lit brothel windows, now brimming with art studios and cool hipster hangouts.

The Hoge Veluwe National Park

Covering an area of 5,400 hectares in the province of Gelderland, Hoge Veluwe National Park is one of the largest and most varied nature reserves in the Netherlands. Home to interesting wildlife and geographical formations ranging from rolling sand dunes to dense woodlands, the park is a wonderful example of what can happen when sport, art, and culture meet unspoiled nature.

Major attractions in the Hoge Veluwe National Park include the Kröller-Müller Museum, which is home to the world’s largest private Van Gogh collection; The Museonder (Underground Museum) – one of the finest sculpture gardens in Europe; and the stunning Jachthuis Sint Hubertus Hunting Lodge.

Tip: To explore all these, take advantage of the 1,700 white bikes that are free for everyone to use throughout the park.

Keukenhof Gardens

One of the Netherlands’ most beautiful attractions, the Keukenhof Gardens, often referred to as The Garden of Europe , is the second-largest flower garden in the world after Dubai Miracle Garden and a place anyone should visit while in the Netherlands. Located in the Bulb region, between Amsterdam and The Hague, Keukenhof, with its more than seven million bulbs planted each autumn, is a magnificent spectacle of colors and scents.

In addition to admiring the gorgeous floral landscape, visitors can also enjoy various flower shows, markets, and parades held here throughout the year; take a memorable flight, bike tour, or boat trip around the bulb fields; or have lunch in one of the onsite restaurants.

The best time of the year to visit the Keukenhof Gardens is during spring when the fields are in full bloom and can be admired in their entire splendor.

Amsterdam’s greatest rival, Rotterdam, is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and one of the world’s largest and busiest ports. Located in Western Netherlands, in the province of South Holland, the city stands out for its gorgeous waterside setting, cutting-edge architecture, and high commercial importance.

Nevertheless, its lively nightlife, jam-packed cultural calendar, and young university vibe make Rotterdam one of the most dynamic and livable cities in Europe.

There are many sayings reflecting the perpetual rivalry between the Netherlands’ finest cities, but this is probably the most popular: Amsterdam has it, but Rotterdam doesn’t need it .

Delft is a charming typical Dutch city located in the province of South Holland, between Rotterdam and The Hague.

World-famous for its blue and white pottery (Delftware) and for being the hometown of Vermeer – the painter who gave birth to the Girl With a Pearl Earring , Delft is bursting with things to see and do, from lovely bars and cafés to quaint churches, interesting museums, and beautiful historical buildings lining pretty canals and wonderful parks.

Delft’s real charm, however, lies in the relaxed atmosphere, which, together with its gloriously preserved medieval old center and idyllic canals, makes for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

The capital of the Limburg province, Maastricht lies in the southeastern part of the Netherlands, very close to both Belgium and Germany.

Once a Roman settlement, this attractive multicultural city has mastered the art of combining the old with the new. Expect rich culture and history, leafy parks, interesting museums, and a storybook medieval old town of quaint plazas and romantic cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and cafés.

The Old Windmills of Kinderdijk

There are many things that make the Netherlands the unique place that it is, but nothing complements the traditional Dutch landscape better than its picturesque windmills. The country is full of them, but the UNESCO-protected 19 windmills of Kinderdijk are, no doubt, one of the most famous sights in the Netherlands.

Designed in 1740 to drain the Alblasserwaard polders and prevent flooding, the windmills have been perfectly preserved ever since. Nowadays, tourists from all over the world come to admire this idiosyncratic scenery and learn about the brilliant Dutch water management. Moreover, from April to the end of October, one of these ancient generators is open to the public to explore and admire.

Kinderdijk is in the province of South Holland, about 15 km east of Rotterdam. During the tourist season, it can be easily reached by car, train, bus, and even by boat.

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Located about 20 km west of Amsterdam, on the banks of the River Spaarne, Haarlem is the capital of North Holland and the city with the highest concentration of museums in the Netherlands.

Gravitating around a delightful market square (Grote Markt), where many of the city’s landmarks are located, Haarlem is a great place to visit, whether you’re interested in culture, history, shopping, or just want to soak up the enchanting laid-back Dutch feel while lingering over a beer in one of its many sidewalk cafés.

Dubbed The judicial capital of the world , The Hague is one of the largest and most important cities in the Netherlands, after Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Airy and sophisticated, this cosmopolitan metropolis in the west of the country seduces visitors with outstanding architecture, lovely squares, and fine art museums, but also with its golden beaches, posh neighborhoods, shiny skyscrapers, and excellent shopping.

Highlights include Madurodam – the miniature city located in Scheveningen; the Prison Gate Museum (Gevangenpoort); the beautiful beach resort of Scheveningen; the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis; and Binnenhof – The Hague’s famous and imposing complex of governmental buildings.

Alkmaar Cheese Market

Held each year in the Waagplein Square in Alkmaar, this cheese market is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands. Due to its long history that dates back to 1593, it’s no wonder the market has become a prominent tradition in the area and a noticeable part of the Dutch culture.

Usually, the Alkmaar cheese market season kicks off on the first Friday of April and lasts until the first Friday of September. The fares, spectacles, and demonstrations are taking place each Friday from 10 AM until 12.30 PM.

Combining charming medieval décors with wonderful displays of world-class Dutch cheese and vendors wearing traditional costumes, a trip here is like an authentic journey through Dutch culture and traditions.

Alkmaar can be found in the province of North Holland, 40 km north-west of Amsterdam.

The Efteling

Established in 1952 in the little town of Kaatsheuvel, Southern Netherlands, Efteling is among the oldest theme parks in the world and the largest attraction of its kind in the country.

About twice as large as California’s famous Disneyland, the park is divided into four different realms – each with its own theme, and has lots of attractions to entertain the entire family, from wide-open green spaces, concerts, and theatrical performances to bars, restaurants, and even a four-star hotel.

The New Dutch Water Line

The Dutch have always been famous for their fierce fight against the country’s greatest enemy – water. A great testament to that is the New Dutch Water Line, a colossal 135-kilometer-long fortification of over 45 strongholds surrounding the cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht.

The breathtaking landscapes here – peppered with adorable villages, beautiful lakes and rivers, museums, and castles – are a joy to explore, whether by foot, boat, or bicycle.

Home to millions of migratory birds, all types of fish species, and seal colonies, Waddenzee is the most peculiar and important nature reserve in the Netherlands, as well as one of the world’s largest wetlands ecosystems.

Located in the province of Groningen, on the Dutch coast, this one-of-a-kind natural habitat spans an area of almost 2,500 square km. Twice a day, it keeps its moist land appearance and becomes one with the sea.

A storybook come to life, Giethoorn lures visitors with its dreamlike tranquility, idyllic waterways, and pretty thatched-roof farmhouses shrouded in greenery. Located in the northeastern Dutch province of Overijssel, about 75 miles from Amsterdam, the village is a cluster of small peat islands with over 55 miles of canals, hundreds of wooden foot arch bridges, and no car streets.

Although its fairytale-like appearance is reason enough to visit, Giethoorn also hosts a handful of interesting museums, as well as charming canalside restaurants, quirky shops, and picturesque cycling routes. For nature lovers, the nearby De Weerribben-Wieden National Park is a treasure trove of wetlands, reed beds, and wildlife.

Aptly nicknamed the Dutch Venice , this charming hamlet can only be explored by boat, bike, or on foot.

Part living fortress, part open-air museum, the tiny fortified village of Bourtange in the Westerwolde region is one of the most unique places in the Netherlands. Built in 1593, during the Dutch Revolt against Spain, the star-shaped fort near the border with Germany is an outstanding example of 16th-century military architecture, with cobbled medieval lanes, quaint brick houses, and restored military barracks, all enclosed within thick defensive walls and marshy moats.

A well-preserved synagogue, a couple of museums dedicated to the area’s history, and a smattering of seasonal events (including a Christmas Market) count among its attractions, but the real pleasure of a trip here lies in a simple walk around its delightful streets lined with small craft shops, or maybe a stroll along its walls at sunset, topped off with a drink in the tree-shaded central plaza.

What’s your favorite place in the Netherlands?

Cool photos of Mastrich, Hague and other. Nice description also of places to see in netherlands.

Kinderdijk is my favorite and Rotterdam too ! 😀

Naarden Vesting and Muidenslot are lovely too!

Giethoorn should be in this list too :p Check it out on google

Thanks for the tip! We’ve just updated the list to include Giethoorn as well.

Just came back after an easter trip to Holland. Kinderdijk and Keukenhof are my favourites 🙂

Zaanse schans is idyllic. I also love Keukhenof and Lieden.

I live in the Netherlands and Vlieland is the most beautiful place in the country. Thats a very small Island and you can take a ferry from Harlingen. Thats also a very beautiful place. Its not very expensive to go with the ferry and it takes 1.5 hour. If you search Vlieland on Google you cant see all nature. Its sure worth it. Rent bikes on Vlieland to discover the island. Its sure worth it. Its by far the most beautiful place of the Netherlands.

Bourtange not get a mention?

We’ve just updated the post with your suggestion, thanks!

Leiden! (i’m also missing Giethoorn on this list)

Definitely Leiden is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the Netherlands.

You forget the beautiful city of Groningen!

It’s top of my list 😉

What about Valkenberg? I really liked it. Anyway, I think all Netherlands is beautiful.

I am from Johannesburg South Africa. Absolutely love the Netherlands. If they would take me I would live there any day!

The bosses on the hoge veluwe are hard to beat. I emigrated to Canada 65 years ago, but I still miss the Dutch scenery very much.

I live also in the Netherlands and there are so many options not mentioned yet. The province of Friesland has many lakes and some rental homes comes with a private boat. The waters are very clean for swimming. The south of Limburg specially the area around Vaals (close to Maastricht) is a heaven to make long walks. The hills and little villages are beautiful there. Noord Brabant has very nice cities like s’Hertogenbosch, Breda and Bergen op Zoom. The most beautiful beaches you find on the waddenislands for sure but also in the province of Zeeland in the south. The areas around Arnhem and Nijmegen are beautiful for walking or cycling.

Our family history brings us to the Netherlands. We want to visit and see as much as possible. Looking for a great list to go by to see and experience as much as possible. Any suggestions? Not wanting to spend a fortune but we really want to experience all the beauty and wonder the country has to offer.

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The best places to visit in the Netherlands

May 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Contrast days exploring the Netherland's many cultural institutions with outdoorsy pursuits on Texel © Sara Winter / Shutterstock

The Netherlands is a treasure chest of exquisite art-filled cities and towns, canals, windmills and tulip fields, along with shiny-new sustainable urban environments, and glorious natural landscapes, coastlines and islands. While it’s one of Europe’s smaller nations (you can cross the entire country in a handful of hours), choosing where to spend your time takes planning.

These are the best places to begin your explorations.

1. Amsterdam

Best city for culture.

Ribboned by UNESCO-listed 17th-century canals that are lined by tilting gabled buildings that form its central core, the Dutch capital is a cultural jewel.

Amsterdam brims with museums headlined by the national showpiece the Rijksmuseum, neighboring Van Gogh Museum and modern-art Stedelijk Museum, with eye-openers like the Wereldmuseum museum of world cultures, and scores of smaller, specialist gems as niche as piano-player pianolas or sustainable fashion.

Music spanning classical to EDM spills from historic churches, hallowed concert halls (the Concertgebouw has near-perfect acoustics) and legendary venues like Melkweg, as well as open-air spaces such as the stage in the sprawling green Vondelpark.

Planning tip: It’s easy to avoid overtourism and escape the crowds by heading to less-visited neighborhoods. Amsterdam Noord is a fantastic starting point, home to a state-of-the-art film museum, the world’s biggest street-art museum, vast art "breeding ground" in former shipping warehouse NDSM-Loods, and eco-focused cafes and bars, many built from recycled materials. 

Find the ideal neighborhood to base yourself in Amsterdam.

2. Rotterdam

Best city for contemporary architecture.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city and Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam has triumphed over the adversity of its WWII devastation, transforming into a veritable gallery of contemporary architecture and public art. Standout structures include the Overblaak "forest" of tilted cube-shaped houses (one houses the Kijk-Kubus museum), the soaring, horseshoe-shaped Markthal with original food stalls and restaurants, and the gleaming mirror-ball-like Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – a world-first open-access art storage facility. Repurposed spaces abound, such as the Schieblock, a mid-century office building converted into creative studios, topped by a harvestable roof terrace.

Planning tip: An exhilarating way to see the shapeshifting cityscape is aboard a water taxi zipping across the harbor. Daredevils can even abseil 100m (328 ft) from Rotterdam’s iconic 1960-opened Euromast observation tower.

Save this guide to the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Best spot for outdoors activities

Basking less than 2 miles off the Dutch coast, the bucolic Wadden Sea island of Texel (pronounced "Tes-sel") is capped by a crimson lighthouse and fringed by sweeping white-sand beaches. With its lush pastures grazed by fluffy sheep (prized for their wool) and dairy cows (producing milk used in local cheeses, chocolate and ice cream, mixed with freshly picked berries), along with rambling forests and nature reserves, Texel is an outdoors paradise. Cycling trails crisscross the island, with activities ranging from horse riding and skydiving. Watersports include sailing and kite-surfing.

Some 10,000 seals swim in the surrounding waters; you can spot them on boat trips or at Ecomare’s seal sanctuary.

Planning tip: Ferries carry foot passengers, cars and bikes from mainland Den Helder to Texel in just 20 minutes. In summer, there’s also a service linking Texel with the Frisian island of Vlieland . 

Best for time-honored streetscapes and artistic traditions

Lovely little Delft , with its web of narrow canals lined by quaint, colorful buildings, seems preserved in another era. Centered on its medieval Markt, one of Europe’s largest market squares (markets still set up here on Thursdays), it’s crowned by the lopsided 14th-century spire of its Oude Kerk (Old Church), and 17th-century-completed Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – climbing its tower’s 376 spiraling steps provides beautiful views of the town.

A less demanding but equally picturesque impression is across the canal at Hooikade, where 17th-century Deft-born artist Vermeer, painted his famous View of Delft that’s still recognizable today. Vermeer’s life and techniques are covered at the Vermeer Centrum Delft.

The 17th century also saw artisans create an enduring legacy with the production of blue-and-white-painted pottery, known to the world as Delftware. Operating since 1653, Royal Delft has behind-the-scenes tours.

5. Den Haag (The Hague)

Best for regal museums and performing arts.

Stately Den Haag (The Hague) , the Netherlands’ third-largest city, isn’t the capital – that’s Amsterdam – but it is the seat of government and royalty. The glimmering Hofvijver pond relects the Gothic-style Binnenhof (Inner Court), the permanent home of the Dutch parliament (temporarily relocated until renovations that began in 2022 wrap up around 2028). The country’s monarch King Willem-Alexander works from adjacent Noordeinde Palace and lives at nearby palace Huis ten Bosch.

You won’t need a royal invitation to visit the dazzling royal picture gallery the Mauritshuis, hanging such masterpieces as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch . Former royal residence the Lange Voorhout Palace showcases the mind-bending works of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Bringing together organizations including the Royal Conservatoire and modern-dance Nederlands Dans Theater across four halls, 2021-opened performing arts complex Amare is the city’s cultural meeting point.

Planning tip: When the weather warms up, join locals unwinding at laid-back beach bars along the long, sandy strand at Scheveningen.

6. Maastricht

Best for roman relics and revelry  .

In this otherwise-flat country’s hilly southeast, Maastricht upends most visitors’ impressions of the Netherlands. Bordered by Germany and Belgium, its location on the ancient trading route between Cologne and Boulogne-sur-Mer saw the Romans establish a fort to guard the crossing on the Maas (Meuse) river. You can see the site of the original bridge from its replacement, the arched, stone footbridge Sint Servaasbrug, begun in 1280 and the Netherland’s oldest bridge.

Maastricht’s unbuttoned joie de vivre harks back to the 15th century when it was part of the vast Burgundy powerbase, resulting in rich food and flowing wine, beer and merriment. Great places to whet your appetite are the city squares Markt, Vrijthof (overlooked by Romanesque basilica Sint Servaasbasiliek) and Onze Lieve Vrowplein (by Romanesque church, Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek).

Planning tip: Carousing peaks during Carnaval, in the lead-up to Shrove Tuesday (February or March), when many businesses otherwise close and costumed parades and parties take over.

Want to attend a festival like Carnaval or King's Day? Here are the best times to g o.

Best spot for history lessons

Whether your historical interest is academia, art or trans-Atlantic history, Leiden is a must-visit. Threaded by canals, it’s home to the Netherlands’ oldest and most illustrious university, gifted to Leiden by Willem the Silent in 1575; its botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, opened in 1590, shelters rare species from all over the world.

Befitting an academic city, Leiden is stuffed with fascinating museums; the flagship Museum De Lakenhal, in a former cloth warehouse, displays works by artists including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden in 1606. The Pilgrims, religious refugees who had fled England for Amsterdam in 1608, moved to Leiden the following year, raising money to lease the Speedwell to commence their journey to the New World in 1620. The tiny Leiden American Pilgrim Museum charts their story.

Planning tip: Leiden is a jumping-off point for springtime trips through the rainbow-striped tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens , 10 miles north at Lisse, when some seven million bulbs bloom.

Best place for unique perspectives

Utrecht ’s university was founded in 1636, and this vibrant student city buzzes with independent shops, bars and bakery-cafes.

The city has some singular vantage points. From the top of its Utrecht's medieval landmark, the 112m (367ft) belfry Domtoren, reached by 465 steps, you can see as far as Amsterdam on a clear day. The Domkerk cathedral’s nave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1674 and never rebuilt. Below ground DOMunder guided tours take you to an underground archaeological site covering two millennia of history. Paleis Lofen tours explore the subterranean remains of this residence built by the Holy Roman Emperors around 1020 AD, incorporating Roman remains.

Also unique to Utrecht are its canals. Sluicing through the historic center, the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht have double-decker towpaths, at both river level, where merchants offloaded goods into kelders (cellars), many of which house cafes and accommodation, and street level above. You can see another side to them from the water by boat, kayak or canoe.

Best for beaches, dunes and wildlife

The grand city of Haarlem – with its Grote Markt (Great Market) square, centuries-old churches (try to catch a Müller organ recital at the Grote Kerk) and impressive ensemble of museums (notably Frans Hals and Teylers) – is a splendid place to visit in itself.

When you’ve had your fill, the city is an ideal base for accessing powdery-soft, white-sand beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendal aan Zee, via the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park , which teems with wildlife: along with birds and bats, you might spot bison, red foxes and fallow deer, as well as 2016-introduced horned Highland cattle. Kopje van Bloemendaal is the Netherlands’ highest dune, with views of the sea and Amsterdam (the capital is just 20 minutes from Haarlem). 

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• 22 Best Places To Visit In Netherlands: The Perfect Mixture Of Art And Culture

The crown jewel of Europe, the Netherlands is one of the many fascinating holiday destinations across the world that steals away the hearts of all travelers. It’s a treasure trove of rich history, heritage, culture, and art. But where to head to in the Netherlands? Here is a short, crisp glance at some of the best places to visit in Netherlands that will make you pack your bags right away. From endless flower fields and high windmills to beautiful water canals and scenic architecture, Netherlands had got all for you in one place.

Top 22 Best Places To Visit In Netherlands

This list of the best places to visit in Netherlands is all you need for your trip to this beautiful European country that caters to every kind of explorer – the hopeless romantic, the photography fanatic, the history buff, and the nature lover!

• Amsterdam : A Beautiful City
• Delft : Celebrate The Artwork
• Rotterdam : Perfect Blend Of History & Culture
• The Hague : For A Vibrant Nightlife
• Maastricht : With A Medieval-Era Architecture
• Edam : A Tourist’s Personal Favorite
• Eindhoven : Explore The Museums
• Leiden : For A Scenic Experience
• Utrecht : Explore The Incredible Architecture
• Giethoorn : For Super Scenic Waterways
• Leeuwarden : Your Offbeat Destination
• Haarlem : A Medieval City
• Groningen : Experience The Splendid Canals
• Middelburg : An Old Town In Netherlands
• Volendam : Of The Most Charming Places
• Kinderdijk : Discover The Rural Village
• Thorn : A Picture-Perfect Destination
• Alkmaar : Know More About Dutch Architecture
• Breda : A Place With A History
• Gouda : Famous For Its World-Class Cheese
• Arnhem : An Old Settlement
• Texel : Dive Into The Culture

1. Amsterdam: A Beautiful City

Image Source

Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is renowned as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is an awesome package of stunning scenery and significant history, mixed with a great nightlife and a cosmopolitan culture. This is among the most unique places to visit in Netherlands. Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in Netherlands with family. 

Location: North Holland Places To Visit In Amsterdam : The Anne Frank House, Bloemenmarkt, Vondelpark, Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum and more Things To Do In Amsterdam: Catch the ferry to Amsterdam North, Take the canal cruise, Discover the world famous shopping streets.

Must Read: Nightlife In Amsterdam

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2. Delft: Celebrate The Artwork

Featuring many intriguing artworks, Delft is a progressive town working hard on restoring its antiqued appearance. With its extremely charming water canals, numerous museums and fabulous artworks, the downtown of Delft is among the beautiful places in Netherlands other than Amsterdam. Delft is famous for being the birthplace of famous Dutch artist, Johannes Vermeer and also for its blue and white Delftware crockery. The place is counted among the best cities to visit in the Netherlands. 

Location: West Netherlands Places To Visit In Delft: The Old Canal (Oude Delft), The Lambert Van Meerten Museum, The Vermeer Delft Museum, Delft City Hall, The Prince’s Court and Prinsenhof Museum and more. Things To Do In Delft: Climb the bell tower in the New Church for incredible views of miles away, Learn the insights of the Delft Pottery at Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles.

3. Rotterdam: Perfect Blend Of History & Culture

Image Credit: Yorick Groen for wikipedia Given its history and beauty, it is the perfect escape for vacationers of all kinds: families, friends, and couples. Located in the South of the Netherlands, Rotterdam is globally renowned for being the most beautiful city in Netherlands. Its blend of history, culture, rich architecture, and major city attractions allure visitors worldwide.

Location: South Netherlands Places To Visit In Rotterdam: Rotterdam Central Station, The Euromast Tower, De Markthal, Rotterdam Zoo, Climbing Park Fun Forest and more are some prominent places to visit in Rotterdam Netherlands. Things To Do In Rotterdam: Take part in workshops and tastings at Fenix Food Factory, and also witness the ports of the town with the Rotterdam Boat Tour.

Suggested Read: Beaches In Netherlands 

4. The Hague: For A Vibrant Nightlife

The Hague is home to the Dutch government, despite the fact that Amsterdam is the capital of Netherlands. Visitors here love its modern vibe but more than that, they are entranced by its old world charm that can only be felt when you actually visit the city. The city also boasts of its vibrant nightlife with its grounded art and culture.

Location: South Holland Places To Visit In The Hague: Madurodam, Mauritshuis, Binnenhof, Duinrell and Gemeentemuseum Den Haag are some of the most famous places to visit in Hague Netherlands. Things To Do In The Hague: See the sky as a curved surface at the Celestial Vault, Witness some natural wonders at the First Natural Lanzart.

5. Maastricht: With A Medieval-Era Architecture

Image Credit: Turkish414 for Pixabay

If at all there is one thing that you can’t miss on a Netherlands sightseeing vacation, it is a visit to this historic city of Maastricht. Considered to be one of the best places to visit in Netherlands , it is a must for everyone to witness the stunning package of medieval architecture and modern atmosphere that the town offers.

Location: South Netherlands Places To Visit In Maastricht: Bonnefanten Museum, Mount Saint Peter and the St. Pietersberg Caves, The Old Town Walls and Hell Gate, Natural History Museum Things To Do In Maastricht: Walking in Maastricht: Wilhelminabrug and St. Servaasbrug, Visit the Red Church at Sint Janskerk

Suggested Read: Best Places For Bachelor Party 

6. Edam: A Tourist’s Personal Favorite

Image Source What makes it a hot favourite among tourists is the Wednesday cheese market it hosts. Edam owes its fame to the fact that it’s the producer of world famous Edam Cheese which is exported to the world. Also, Edam is an important town historically and that is why it is yet another town in the list of places to visit in Netherlands other than Amsterdam.

Location: North Holland Places To Visit In Edam: Volendam Museum, Paard Van Marken, Edams Museum, Edam Cheese Market and more. Things To Do In Edam: Cheese tasting at the Edams Cheese Market and explore this small historic town with the windmills at the countryside.

7. Eindhoven: Explore The Museums

Image Source It is the numerous and varied types of museums in Eindhoven which makes it one of the most famous places among the top 10 places to visit in Netherlands. Eindhoven boasts of its fair share to creativity, technology, and design. It is undoubtedly a must visit on a trip to Netherlands. It is among the famous places to visit in Netherlands.

Location: South Netherlands Places To Visit In Eindhoven: Van Abbemuseum, Philips Museum, DAF Museum, PSV Museum and more. Things To Do In Eindhoven: Visit Speelpark De Splinter for a wonderful day out at this famous picnic spot, You can also do a two-hour design themed tour of the city and guided cycle tours are also available to know the insights of the Eindhoven.

Suggested Read: Cruises In Netherlands 

8. Leiden: For A Scenic Experience

Image Credit: Csupordezso for Pixabay

Housing various tree lined canals marked with old windmills and numerous museums ranging from science and natural history to Egyptian history, Leiden is among the must see famous places in Netherlands. The scenic canals, abundant wooden bridges and lush covered parks make the city ideal for visiting.

Location: South Holland Places to Visit In Leiden: Museum Boerhaave, National Museum of Antiquities, Hortus Botanicus Leiden, The Molen De Valk Windmill Museum and more. Things To Do In Leiden: Walk on Leiden stones and Visit the world’s second oldest observatory at the Leiden Observatory.

9. Utrecht: Explore The Incredible Architecture

Image Credit: Edwin for Pixabay

Primarily famous for housing the largest college in Holland, the University of Utrecht, it also owes its fame to incredible historic city architecture. An iconic site that has been associated with the medieval period since a very long now and has a plethora of scenic water canals, this one is a must visit attraction for all.

Location: Central Netherlands Places To Visit In Utrecht: The Oude Hortus, Trajectum Lumen, DOMunder, Dom Tower and more Things To Do In Utrecht: Bike tours, Boat excursions

Suggested Read: Castles In Netherlands 

10. Giethoorn: For Super Scenic Waterways

Giethoorn is quite interesting. You ought to love the place anyhow. It allows you spend your vacation among super scenic surroundings of waterways and canals on the village side. The best way to reach Giethoorn is either by a boat or by off roading on a bicycle. It is also called the ‘Village With No Roads’. Set amidst absolute tranquility of nature, Giethoorn is among the best places to see in Netherlands.

Location: Overijssel, Netherlands Places To Visit In Giethoorn: Museum De Oude Aarde, Museum Gloria Maris, The Histomobile and more Things To Do In Giethoorn: Chill and admire the glorious canals and their beauty and spend some quality time with your family.

11. Leeuwarden: Your Offbeat Destination

One of the offbeat places in Netherlands, Leeuwarden is another stunning tourist place in the league of top places to visit in Netherlands. Leeuwarden’s close proximity to Amsterdam makes it an ideal one day getaway from the capital. The place got a good number of places to eat and drink as well as some galleries and museums which showcase precious artworks.

Location: Friesland, Netherlands Places To Visit In Leeuwarden: Aqua Zoo Friesland, Fries Museum, Natuurmuseum and Keramiekmuseum Princessehof Things To Do In Leeuwarden: Discover the 11 fountains and enjoy the nightlife in Leeuwarden

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Destinations

12. Haarlem: A Medieval City

Located merely 15 minutes away from Amsterdam and Schiphol airport, Haarlem is a medieval yet charming city which boasts of numerous intact medieval structures around the town. The city got some excellent dining options, shopping opportunities, and some great beaches in the close vicinity too. What else does one need when deciding upon the best places to visit in Netherlands!

Location: Northwest Netherlands Places To Visit In Haarlem: Grote Kerk, Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum, Ten Boom Museum and more. Things To Do In Haarlem: Climb a landmark windmill, Hit the shops, Discover Haarlem’s hidden courtyards, Cycle to the beach, Go beer tasting in a former church.

13. Groningen: Experience The Splendid Canals

Another Netherlands top attraction is Groningen because it is a hub of history, culture, and art backed by splendid beauty of canals and waterways. If you consider yourself as a history buff or a nature lover then a vacation in Groningen is perfect for you. The city also boasts of two famous colleges and a vibrant nightlife as well. Furthermore, it is the cheapest city in Netherlands. 

Location: North Netherlands Places To Visit In Groningen: Groninger Museum, Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum, Nederlands Stripmuseum and more Things To Do In Groningen: Shopping in Groningen, Discover some of the best restaurants in Groningen

Suggested Read: Churches In Netherlands 

14. Middelburg: An Old Town In Netherlands

Image Credit: Djedj for Pixabay

Originally established to withstand Viking attacks, Middelburg is the oldest town which makes it the best tourist places in Netherlands. Middelburg is also one of the best places to visit in Netherlands. You would not want to miss out on this culturally and architecturally rich city on your trip to Netherlands.

Location: South Western Netherlands Places To Visit In Middelburg: Delta Works, Mini Mundi, Zeeuws Museum, Vleeshal Middelburg Things To Do In Middelburg: Bicycle tour, Shopping in Town Hall, Dine in the attractive restaurants in the town.

15. Volendam: Of The Most Charming Places 

Located just 12 kilometers North of Amsterdam, Volendam is a delightful fishing village. This is among the most charming places to visit in the Netherlands other than Amsterdam. Famous for its local delicacies, fish, and cheese, it’s a must-visit for foodies. Leaving Volendam without sampling its tantalizing cuisine would not do justice to your trip.

Location: Northeast of Amsterdam Places To Visit In Volendam: Volendam Museum, Paard Van Marken, Edams Museum, Edam cheese market Things To Do In Volendam: Go fishing and try fishes at various restaurants in Volendam

Suggested Read: Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe

16. Kinderdijk: Discover The Rural Village

Kinderdijk is an ideal example of a rural village in the Netherlands known for its iconic 18th-century windmills. Enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful countryside scenes that is quintessentially Dutch. The 19 windmills erected in the village, that were used to avoid flooding and keep the soil dry, have been declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, you ought to check them out. For someone who likes the countryside, will fall in love with the criss-cross bike trails, waterways, and footpaths.

Location: Molenwaard, Netherlands Places To Visit: Museummolen Nederwaard, Museummolen Blokweer,Donckse Forest Things To Do: Check out the windmills, go hiking or biking, explore the village

17. Thorn: A Picture-Perfect Destination

Image Credit: ID 12019 for Pixabay

Every instragrammer and photographer ought to check this placeout in the Netherlands because that is how charming and pretty this place in the Netherlands. The place lies near the Belgium border. it is hard to fall in love with the cobbled streets, white-washed brick buildings, and charming scenery. Don’t miss the tenth century abbey church in the town center.

Location: Limburg Places To Visit: Gemeentemuseum Land van Thorn, Abdijkerk Thorn, Begijnhof Things To Do: Guided tours, visit to the museum

Suggested Read: Amsterdam In March

18. Alkmaar: Know More About Dutch Architecture

Alkmaar is a very fascinating destination for visitors who want to know more about Dutch architecture and history as it goes back to 900 AD. Once upon a time, Alkmaar was a very important agricultural hub. The place had a floating auction house and farmers came from far off places to sell their produce here.

Location: Netherlands Places to visit: The Broeker Veiling Museum, Piet Windmill, Weighing house, Cheese Museum, and the national beer museum are a must to have on the itinerary. Things to do: Visit the museum, go strolling through the place, visit the marketplace.

19. Breda: A Place With A History

Breda is an interesting medieval city which is also a must-see attraction for people who want to explore the architecture and history of the place. This was once fortified and has always occupied a very important strategic position. It also has a well preserved historic center till date. There are a lot of storehouses and Gastespoort in Port quarter which is one of the famous Breda’s three medieval gates.

Location: North Brabant Province Places to visit: The Breda Castle, the Grote Kerk which dates back to 1920; the Begijnhof, Spaniard’s hole. Things to do: Visit the Breda Museum which is located in a Meat Hall dating back to the 17th century, go hiking, go cycling in Mastbos which is a beautiful woodland near the Bouvigne castle.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Netherlands

20. Gouda: Famous For Its World-Class Cheese

Gouda is a popular tourist destination for its world-famous cheese which has been produced in the region for centuries. Cheese lovers and foodies alike shouldn’t miss out on the chance to visit the place on a Thursday (in the months of April to August). This is the time when the city comes to life due to its age-old cheese markets for its tourists to enjoy.

Location: Netherlands Places to visit: Historic Center, Cheese Museum Things to do: Visit the cheese market and take part in cheese weighing, auctioning, making and more, Go for wine and beer tastings, go for canal cruises, take a guided walking tour.

21. Arnhem: An Old Settlement

It is a small old town situated on the place of a Roman settlement. This town is an ideal place for discovering the Gelderland province since they have a lot to showcase. When here make sure to explore the old city center which you can easily tour on foot to see a lot of 15th-century style of architecture along with parts of the beautiful old town walls. When preparing the list of things to see in Netherlands, don’t forget to add this amazing destination. 

Location: Netherlands Places to visit: Netherlands Open Air Museum, Airborne Museum Hartenstein, Kroller Muller Museum, Wine Museum. Things to do: Go cycling at the National Park de Hoge Veluwe, go strolling through the old city.

Suggested Read: Beaches In Amsterdam 

22. Texel: Dive Into The Culture

It is the biggest Frisian Island located just off the mainland of northern Holland. It offers travelers a wide range of activities to take part in. This is a great place to take your family for a little vacation since there are a lot of interesting places for dining and shopping here. There are also many museums and other landmarks here which will fascinate the kids and adults alike.

Location: Northern Holland Places to visit: The Whaler’s Cottage, the Shipwreck, and Beachcombing Museum, the Aviation and Wartime Museum, the Local History Museum. Things to do: Get a bicycle and go exploring the 30 km long coastline, visit the beaches during summer months, go kite sailing, enjoy surfing, go swimming, go windsurfing and go catamaran sailing.

Further Read: Most Popular Europe Trips 

The Netherlands is an amazing city to visit for a vacation. It’s fascinating history, couple with its cozy weather and the innumerable activities which visitors can engage in gives anyone lots of options to explore. All these best places to visit in Netherlands await you for the most unforgettable vacation of your lives! Pick your favorite destination and plan your trip to Europe with TravelTriangle NOW!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Netherlands

What is Netherlands known for?

Netherlands is known for being a small country but having a rich culture and heritage and for the many amazing places to visit in Netherlands. that’s a wonderful destination and is also known for its great cuisine.

What countries make up the Netherlands?

The constituent of all countries which are Aruba, Curacao, Sint Marteen and the Netherlands.

Is Denmark better than Netherlands?

Both Netherlands and Denmark are special in their own ways. Denmark is home to some majestic castles, captivating landscapes and innovative architecture whereas Netherlands is known for its rich history, culture and art.

What can I shop for in Netherlands?

There are many things that you can shop for in the Netherlands. Some of those things are Blond Amsterdam Breakfast set, handmade wallets, Dutch Licorice, customised clogs and bathrobes.

What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?

The country enjoys a temperate climate with milder summers as compared to the moderate winters. If you enjoy the company of tulips blooming, then, the time period between March and Mid May would be the best time to visit the Netherlands, along with other places to visit in Europe.

What are the top places to visit in the Netherlands in January?

Winters may not be the wisest time to visit The Netherlands weather-wise, but it surely has a huge number of museums and indoor tourist attractions that might save you from the cold outside. We’d recommend places like Groningen, Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, and Utrecht to visit in The Netherlands in January.

What are the places to visit in the Netherlands in May?

The Netherlands comes to life when the sun is shining. The best places to visit in the Netherlands in May include The Hague, Amsterdam, and Scheveningen. The Netherlands in May is something you should not miss. The most important highlight of the summer in the Netherlands is the Canal Festival.

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

With your passport stamped out you go, into the world of windmills, tulips and canals. A conglomeration of vibrant cities stand beautifully alongside the postcard-worthy countryside. They both weave into the vibrant tapestry that showcases centuries of rich history.

The Netherlands is a densely populated country in part reclaimed from the sea with about half of its land lying below sea level. Many tourist only come to Holland to visit Amsterdam.

But there are plenty of things to do in the Netherlands outside its capital. Crisscrossed with canals, the flat landscape is perfect for cycling with historic town centers, classic windmills and other tourist attractions sprinkled across the country.

In the west and north the long coastline is marked by mile upon mile of protective dunes and sandy beaches. During springtime the flower gardens become beautiful places to visit providing a bold spectacle of vivid colors.

27. ‘s-Hertogenbosch Old Town

Winding cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and picturesque canals create a unique atmosphere of nostalgia and charm in ‘s-Hertogenbosch Old Town.

A historically rich city, ‘s-Hertogenbosch was founded in 1185 and is the capital of the Dutch province of North Brabant. It has served as an important center of trade and culture in the Netherlands for over eight centuries.

The heart of s-Hertogenbosch is the Market Square. With its Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, plenty of places to grab a bite to eat and take in the sights, the square is an ideal spot to spend your afternoon.

The city also boasts a number of historic institutions, such as the Slager and the Brothers Van Aerssen museums. The latter is dedicated to the life and work of the two Dutch brothers who were prominent in the development of s-Hertogenbosch.


26. Wadlopen

Venturing into the captivating world of Wadlopen unveils an experience where nature and adventure intertwine. Wadlopen, which translates to “mudflat walking”, is one of the most unusual things to do in the Netherlands and involves wading through dark tidal waters to explore the Wadden Sea.

During the tour, you’ll get to experience the area’s stunning mudflats, sandbanks and salt marshes. Travelers should also keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife and marine species that inhabit the area. These include migratory sandpipers and oystercatchers on the lookout for crustaceans. These birds are also joined by seals lazing about in the low tides.

Wadlopen is more than just a thrilling trek through mud, however. It’s a chance to connect with the environment. Guides share insights into the fragile ecosystem, highlighting the importance of conservation and showcase the delicate balance between land and sea.


25. Anne Frank Huis, Amsterdam

A sobering reminder of the events of World War II, the Anne Frank Huis Museum in Amsterdam is a powerful memorial to Anne Frank’s life and legacy. As a young Jewish girl, her diary captured the atrocities of the war and remains a poignant reminder decades on.

The museum is divided into two sections. The first is the Anne Frank House, which is the actual house where Anne and her family hid during the war. It has since been restored to its original condition and contains artifacts from their time in hiding. The second section is the Anne Frank Exhibition, where you’ll find photos, documents, and additional artifacts related to Anne’s life and her time in the Secret Annex.

One of the most visited tourist attractions in the Netherlands, spending time in the Anne Frank Huis is a humbling experience. It serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the strength of the human spirit.

24. Delta Project

Those looking for an educational journey detailing the forces of nature should put visiting The Delta Project at the top of their list. The Netherlands faces a continued battle with the sea and the project aims to make the country more resilient to the effects of climate change. This includes such changes as rising sea levels, increased water temperature, and coastal erosion.

This visionary project was initiated after the devastating North Sea Flood of 1953. The flood claimed thousands of lives and prompted the nation to create defenses against future natural crises. The Delta Works are a series of constructions built between 1950 and 1997 in the provinces of Zeeland and South Holland to protect large areas of land from the sea.

During your journey, you learn about the ecology of the region and the importance of the Delta Project to protect future generations, with the help of dams, locks and storm surge barriers.

23. Frans Hals Museum, Haarlem

Nestled in the charming city of Haarlem, the Frans Hals Museum beckons those looking to experience some of the finest Dutch art. Upon your first steps within the museum, you’ll be greeted by an impressive building. Originally built as a church in the 17th century, the gallery offers a unique and inspiring setting to explore the works of art.

As you make your way through the galleries, you’ll admire numerous pieces by Frans Hals, including his famous group portraits and genre scenes. The museum also includes works by other Dutch masters such as Jacob van Ruisdael, Jan Steen, and Pieter Saenredam.

With a wide range of activities and events to help visitors learn more about the art and culture of Haarlem, there’s something for everyone!

22. Scheveningen Boardwalk

Set along the picturesque Dutch coastline, Scheveningen Boardwalk presents an escape for locals and tourists alike. The boardwalk is a two-mile-long pedestrian promenade that is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

As you wander along, you’ll get a taste of the local culture, try some delicious Dutch cuisine, and bask in the stunning views of the North Sea. For more action, you can join a game of beach volleyball or go windsurfing. For more adrenaline, why not bungee jump off the Pier?

As the day fades into the evening, Scheveningen Boardwalk transforms into a lively hub. At its heart is the Kurhaus beset with Belle Époque architecture. Within you’ll find an opulent cultural venue with bars and live concerts.


21. Openluchtmuseum, Arnhem

Step into an immersive journey through Dutch history at Openluchmuseum. This open-air museum invites travelers to traverse centuries of Dutch life in a picturesque setting.

Founded in 1912, the museum is home to over 80 historical buildings that show how people lived and worked in the Netherlands through various eras. Travelers can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts, farming techniques, and household chores. All combine to offer a deeper understanding of past Dutch life.

In addition to its visual beauty and educational events, Openluchtmuseum, Arnhem also features a range of restaurants and cafes. From traditional Dutch dishes to international cuisine, you can enjoy a delicious meal while reveling in their surroundings.


20. Alkmaar Cheese Market

Located in the charming city of Alkmaar in North Holland, the Alkmaar Cheese Market has been an iconic destination for an authentic Dutch experience for centuries. Held every Friday since 1365, Alkmaar Cheese Market is the oldest cheese market in the Netherlands.


The market is an exceptional opportunity to learn about the traditional cheese-making process. Not to mention witness a traditional cheese carrying ceremony. This is where cheese carriers donning traditional Dutch attire parade large rounds of cheese through the market on wooden boards. The colossal wheels of cheese are then weighed, bartered, and sold in a lively spectacle.

Afterwards, indulge in some enticing Dutch cheeses from creamy Gouda to tangy Edam.


19. Apenheul

In Apeldoorn you’ll find one of the most unique zoos in the world. Contrary to other zoos, some species are free to roam amongst the visitors. Don’t worry; just the smaller primates.

This different perspective allows travelers to enjoy a more personal experience with the animals that call it home. The zoo has several habitats for each animal, such as the gorillas’ rainforest, the orangutans’ tropical garden, and the chimpanzees’ savannah. It’s almost like stepping into the wilderness itself.

Beyond the open range experience, Apenheul lives ethos of conservation and education. Engaging talks and interactive sessions allow visitors to understand the importance of preserving these awe-inspiring creatures and their ecosystems.


18. Try a Stroopwafel in Gouda

If you’ve heard of Gouda, you’ve probably heard of the famous Dutch Stroopwafel! In the late 1700s, one local baker combined leftover crumbs with sweet syrup, creating an international sensation. With this history and Gouda’s scenic canals and beautiful architecture, there’s no better place to try this mouthwatering treat.

Stroopwafels are famous for being light and fluffy on the inside while crisp on the outside. The filling is gooey, caramel-like with a hint of cinnamon flavour, making this treat the perfect balance of sweet and savory. They are best served fresh and warm, especially when placed atop a cup of hot coffee or tea.

For those looking to get the full stroopwafel experience, join a stroopwafel-making workshop. Where you will learn the art of creating these delicious treats. Enjoy the hands-on experience and take home your own freshly made delights.


17. Efteling

Have you ever envisioned stepping into the pages of a real-life storybook? Visiting Efteling in Noord Brabant will bring that fairy tale to life for you.

The park is divided into four different sections, each with its own whimsical motifs. The Fairytale Forest is home to a variety of attractions based on classic fairytales, from Hansel and Gretel to Cinderella.

Wonder over to the Ruigrijk section for a fun ride on the Ferris wheel and carousel, or the Flying Dutchman for thrill seekers. This ride features a “flying” portion where the cars are lifted up and move in a thrilling figure-eight pattern. Other sections of the park offers memorable rides and thrilling roller coasters.

If you are able to plan your trip around the holidays or season, you can experience the Efteling Winterfest, the Summer Festival, and the Halloween Haunted House.

16. Markthal, Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a city known for its modern architecture and its vibrant nightlife scene, but one of its most iconic landmarks is the Markthal. This incredible building is a one-of-a-kind structure that combines a traditional market hall with a contemporary apartment complex.

Designed by Dutch architects MVRDV, the building features a curved horseshoe-shape design with an impressive archway of windows that creates a spectacular light show. Covering over 38,000 square meters and home to over 80 shops and food stalls, Markthal offers a variety of fresh produce, snacks, and plenty of bars and restaurants.

For the art savvy visitors, the complex is also home to several art installations, including the famous “Rainbow Passage” which is adorned with colourful tiles and LED lighting.


15. Zaanse Schans

On your travels, have you ever visited a place that makes you feel as though time is standing still? Well, you can add Zaanse Schans to the list. This is an idyllic village serving as a treasure trove of Dutch history. It offers a glimpse into the country’s iconic windmills, charming wooden houses and traditional craftsmanship.

Standing tall since the 17th century, the Dutch windmills are a symbol of the Netherlands’ industrial heritage. Zaanse Schans is home to the world’s largest concentration of functioning windmills, with eight of the famous windmills still in operation today.

Stepping inside one will give those a glimpse into the ingenuity behind the nation’s flour, oil and spice production. Next, you’ll be captivated by the collection of traditional wooden houses, barns, and workshops meticulously restored to their original architect.

After you are done reveling in the sights, take part in various activities, such as traditional Dutch cheese-making workshops, boat rides on the river, and visit the local clog-making facility.


14. De Haar Castle

Wonder on out to the serene Dutch countryside near Utrecht and you will find yourself standing in front of an architectural gem. Dating back to the 1800s, De Haar Castle is a magnificent example of Dutch Gothic Revival.

A sprawling site, visitors will be blown away by the sheer size of De Haar Castle. Some of the first things you’ll notice are the impressive façade of towers, turrets, spires, and its drawbridge. But the beauty spans beyond just the exterior. Make your way inside and you will be greeted by a grand staircase, a library, chapel and a stunning banquet hall.

Opt for a guided tour which offers detailed looks into the lives of the castle’s inhabitants, telling stories of aristocracy and once lavish celebrations.


13. Go Cycling

With its flat terrain, extensive network of cycling paths and friendly locals, it is no wonder why locals have such a strong connection to moving about on two wheels.

The Netherlands has one of the most impressive networks of cycling paths on the globe. With over 30,000 km of cycling paths, it is easy to find your way around the country without having to worry about traffic.

As the Cycling Capital of the World, there’s no better place to get among the action than Amsterdam. Cycling is at the center of the city’s culture and transport. But around the country, you’ll find that bikes are easily accessible. Whether that be at rental shops, hotels, or even train stations. Once you have gotten your set of wheels, you will find paths through quaint villages and along serene canals.

Fuel up on your journey by stopping at cafes or “fietscafés” for traditional treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes.

12. Giethoorn

Due to its unique network of canals and bridges, Giethoorn is affectionately known as the “Venice of the Netherlands”. The town is the perfect place to get away from the bustle of city life.

Glide through narrow canals flanked by charming houses and lush greenery by taking a leisurely canal cruise or opt for a traditional wooden boat, called “punters”. A fun fact is that there are no roads in Giethoorn and most of the transportation is done on water.

For those wanting to learn more about the village’s history, visit the Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus. Here you will find out more about its roots in peat harvesting and the evolution of its unique way of life.

11. Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden

Tucked in the heart of Leiden, the Naturalis Biodiversity Center stands as a beacon for nature enthusiasts, science lovers and curious minds alike. Equipped with an extensive collection of exhibits, Naturalis boasts an array of fossils, minerals, plants, animals and interactive displays that unveil the breadth of biodiversity.

Stop by the dinosaur hall to witness Trix, the museum’s famous T-Rex skeleton. You can also engage with ongoing research and scientific exploration in the live laboratories. Here you will see scientists in action and get to participate in interactive workshops, gaining insights into current biodiversity studies.

If you are visiting with family, Naturalis offers a variety of activities for kids, including scavenger hunts, quizzes, and interactive activities. This makes Naturalis a fun visit for those of all ages.

10. Caves of Maastricht

The streets of Maastricht may by filled with eye-catching medieval architecture, but it’s the town’s subterranean history that will capture your attention. The Caves of Maastricht date back to the Roman era, when local quarries helped build the cities.

These quarries were eventually connected via intricate tunnels that helped Maastricht during historic sieges and also WWII. it was then caves were transformed into underground fortifications, affixed with military gear.

While you can explore on your own, the caves feature over 80km of pathways. So it’s best to join a tour and explore the caves with an expert. As you go, you’ll learn about the cave’s centuries-old history while wandering an extensive labyrinth of tunnels. It’s safe to say, this isn’t the experience for those with claustrophobia.

For those seeking adventure, partake in specialized activities within the caves, including cave biking, rappelling, or even treasure hunts.

9. Delft Markt

Located in the heart of the city of Delft, is the Delft Markt. This is a bustling hub that envelops you in a world of sights, smells, and sounds.

Originally established in 1532 by Count Willem of Holland, Delft Markt was created to provide a source of food for the town’s people. Over the years, the market grew in size and importance, becoming one of the most popular markets in the country.

Featuring a diverse range of products, visitors can explore stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, seafood, flowers, and an assortment of artisanal goods. However, the market is more than just food and produce. You find a complement of handcrafted goods and traditional crafts alongside live music.

8. Hoge Veluwe National Park

As one of the largest protected lands in the Netherlands, Hoge Veluwe National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or just looking to relax in some of Europe’s most beautiful natural scenery, this park should land on your list.

Hoge Veluwe is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Animals such as red deer, wild boar, and mouflon roam freely across the park, offering nature enthusiasts the chance to encounter various species in their natural habitat. For those interested in birding, look to the skies for a chance at seeing a nightjar or woodlark!

For a unique experience, make sure to check out the Sand Dunes of De Hoge Veluwe. You will see a stunning natural phenomenon, with the white gypsum sand contrasting against the green trees and the deep blue sky.

The Kröller-Müller Museum with it large collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh is located within the park. Bicycles are available for free to visitors of the Hoge Veluwe, with much of the area being inaccessible by car.


7. Mauritshuis, The Hague

Step through the doors of Mauritshuis in the Hague and embark on a captivating journey through time as you stand before an extraordinary collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. Home to some of the most renowned artworks in the world, you do not have to be an art aficionado to enjoy all this museum offers.

Among the museum’s prized possessions is Johannes Vermeer’s iconic painting, “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” Often referred to as the Dutch Mona Lisa, this work of art has drawn millions of admirers to The Mauritshuis since its arrival in 1902.

But there’s much more to see, including pieces by the Dutch masters Jan Steen, Frans Hals, and Carel Fabritius. Each canvas tells a story, whether through scenes of everyday life, intimate portraits or breathtaking landscapes.


6. West Frisian Islands

Along the northern coast of the Netherlands lie the enchanting West Frisian Islands. This is an archipelago boasting unparalleled natural beauty and a relaxing escape.

Texel, the largest of the West Frisian Islands, serves as the perfect introduction to this coastal paradise. Visitors can choose to explore the Ecomare Nature Center, witness diverse bird life at the Slufter Nature Reserve or simply unwind on the island’s pristine beaches.

Interestingly, all the islands boast their own lighthouse. Each offers panoramic views and insights into maritime history. Some of our favorites are Vuurduin on Vlieland, the Brandaris on Terschelling and the Ameland Lighthouse.

Since you are in the Netherlands, it would be remiss not to rent a bike. Cycle and explore the islands via their well-marked bike paths through picturesque landscapes, dunes, forests and quaint villages.

5. Dom Tower, Utrecht

Standing tall in the heart of Utrecht is the Dom Tower. Built in 1321, this impressive structure has long been an important symbol of the city.

The Dom Tower is a remarkable Gothic structure, made of sandstone blocks and decorated with ornate carvings and sculptures. It is one of the oldest and most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in the Netherlands.

Visitors to the Dom Tower often climb the 465 steps to the top of the tower to enjoy the beautiful views of Utrecht and the surrounding Cathedral Square. The top of the tower is home to the Carillon, a series of bells which are rung every Sunday at noon.

For a deeper understanding of its history, architecture, and significance within Utrecht’s cultural landscape, join a guided tour.

4. Kinderdijk

In the Alblasserwaard region of the Netherlands, you’ll find the iconic town of Kinderdijk. This village has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, thanks to its 19 windmills that are still standing today.

Originally built in the 18th century, these windmills were used to help reclaim land from the sea and protect the Dutch coastline. Start your day at the Kinderdijk Visitor Center, where you can gain more knowledge of the village’s history and the evolution of the windmills.

During the summer months, we recommend taking a boat tour along the canals to get up close to the windmills. Alternatively, cycling paths around Kinderdijk provide a leisurely way to explore on two wheels.


3. Rijksmuseum

Hailed as the national museum of the Netherlands , the Rijksmuseum holds a prestigious position as one of the world’s most celebrated art museums. With a collection that spans over 800 years of Dutch history, this celebrated institution is home to some of the most seminal pieces of art in the world. Examples range from Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” to works by Vermeer and modern masters like Pablo Picasso.

The Rijksmuseum offers a variety of educational events and activities for visitors of all ages. You can take part in guided tours, lectures, workshops and interactive displays, all designed to help you foster a deeper appreciation of the pieces of art before you.

2. Keukenhof Gardens

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into a living canvas? Look no further than the Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands. Located in Lisse, a small town in the province of South Holland, the gardens are a wonderland of vibrant colors and fragrant scents.


Home to the world’s largest flower garden, it’s no wonder Keukenhof is known as the Garden of Europe. Home to over seven million flower bulbs, Keukenhof is a true paradise for flower lovers. Every year, from mid-March to mid-May, the gardens open for visitors to enjoy, with the colourful blooms spreading as far as the eye can see.

The gardens feature a variety of themed displays, including Japanese, Dutch, and Romantic era gardens. You can take a stroll through the winding paths or opt for a moment of tranquillity with a cup of coffee at one of the charming cafes.

1. Amsterdam Canals

Often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Amsterdam’s intricate and awe-inspiring network of canals is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These waterways, dating back to the 17th century, were constructed during the Dutch Golden Age and continue to play a critical role in the city’s history.

Exploring Amsterdam’s canals is best done by a canal cruise. As the boat flows along the calm waters, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the city. Depending on the route, you might catch sight of landmarks like the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace, and the Skinny Bridge, offering a beautiful waterside view.

See also: Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Walking or cycling alongside the canals provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s vibrant culture. Take a more leisurely pace as you enjoy quaint cafes and hidden courtyards at each turn.

Some of the best time to experience the Amsterdam canals are during the annual Grachtenfestival (Canal Festival) and Amsterdam Light Festival. The canals come alive creating an unforgettable cultural experience!

Map of Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

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Reader interactions.

April 21, 2016 at 3:27 am

I live in the Netherlands and I think lots of cities look too similar. I would visit Amsterdam, Maastricht as my choices. But my favorite place is Vlieland (on of the 5 islands) Texel is pretty boring. Terschelling is also nice. Ameland is okay and Schiermonnikoog is pretty boring as well. So drive to Harlingen and take a boat to Vlieland. Half of the Island is Sand 😀

November 17, 2015 at 2:30 am

I really need to make it to Holland. I made so many friends from there while travelling last year.

May 9, 2014 at 1:26 am

We left London and are now a few days in Amsterdam with 2 kids (age 5 en 8) and went to de Zaanse Schans last wednesday. It’s a open-air museum in a town next to Amsterdam. Free of charge. It’s not too big, but ok for a few hours with the kids. Old houses and about 6 or 7 windmills and all kind of old Dutch gadgets inside.

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30 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands

Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands? Then this list with the most beautiful places to visit is exactly what you are looking for. Find below a map with all the tourist spots of the Netherlands and pick the ones you like for your next trip. The Netherlands has a wide variety of tourist attractions and this extensive list has some off the beaten path destinations that you won't find in any other Netherlands travel guide.

It’s not a surprise that the worldwide Corona crisis has put a stop to all our travels. Some awesome trips abroad got cancelled and had to be rescheduled. In the meantime the Traveltomtom team had time to check out the beautiful tourists attractions in the Netherlands. With some borders being closed, and a negative travel advice for most of the outside world, Traveltomtom started looking into sightseeing in The Netherlands. We found out that Holland, our small little country has so much to offer. For some reason we rather travel as far away as possible. But the Corona crisis made us reconsider to visit some Netherlands tourist attractions.

Holland has 12 provinces and the Traveltomtom Team has traveled to all of them. We visited all the tourist hotspots around our country, some during the recent global Covid pandemic. On top of all that we visited some unique hidden gems which we want you to discover too. Are you ready?

When traveling to the Netherlands stay connected and buy a local sim card for the Netherlands . Flying to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam? Don't buy your sim card for the Netherlands there. Why? Here is your guide for buying a sim card at Amsterdam Airport and decide yourself!

Join us on a journey along the best things to in the Netherlands. With this list of the most amazing tourist attractions I am sure you make the most out of your Netherlands trip.

Map of the beautiful places to visit in Netherlands

1. Amsterdam

Our capital city! I love Amsterdam, in fact, I think it’s one of the best capital cities in the world. And I assure you, Amsterdam is so much more than the red-light district and legal drugs.

Amsterdam became quiet during the Corona crisis, for months museum, restaurants and bars had to be closed. Residents of Amsterdam loved the peace and quiet in the city. Normally for the best things to do in Amsterdam like the Anne Frank House, it’s almost impossible to get tickets. There are always massive queues lining up alongside the museum. When things started to open up again, but tourists were still not allowed into the Netherlands, we thought this would be the perfect time to visit our capital, and visit all the places we normally don’t get the chance for.

My top recommendation for Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. A very important part of our history, which they turned into an interesting and impressive museum. Find out where she and her family hid, and where she wrote her famous diary.

Explore Amsterdam by foot as much as possible, walk through narrow alleys, discover Amsterdam at its best! Another recommendation I would like to make is a boat tour on the canals of Amsterdam. They usually last for about an hour, and you get to see some pretty nice and new sights of Amsterdam. During the tour commentary will be provided in multiple languages.

Some other must do’s for Amsterdam: rent a bike and explore the Vondelpark, walk through the most expensive shopping street of the Netherlands, the PC Hooftstraat, visit the Rijksmuseum and the famous Nachtwacht painting, take the free ferry-boat behind the Central Station and visit the A’dam Tower (amazing Amsterdam views guaranteed!).

Where to stay around Amsterdam? The Traveltomtom team lately tried out the brand new Van Der Valk Amsterdam Zuidas Hotel , with the most magnificent views over the Amsterdam business district for sure. Want to stay in a more central hotel in Amsterdam then have a look at the Volkshotel in Amsterdam Oost . Their uniquely designed rooms, Canvas rooftop bar bar/restaurant and a hot tub with views over Amsterdam make it a unique hotel in Amsterdm.

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2. Kissing Couple XXL

Located on the North side of Amsterdam, right at the point where you take the ferry to Zaandam, they installed something pretty cool. The Kissing Couple XXL in Delfts blue colors. I stumbled upon it though social media, and immediately thought, I have to add this to my Netherlands sightseeing tour.

It’s very easy to visit by car, as there is a carpark right next to the Kissing Couple. But there is another fun way of getting to the Kissing Couple XXL. You can easily visit it by bike. From Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station just follow the blue dot route to the Hempont Ferry. The Kissing Couple can’t be missed. Need more information on the bike route? Check it out here .

For a unique place to stay in The Netherlands check out the Clock Tower Suite in Weesp . It is near Amsterdam and you get a chance to sleep in the tower of an old church! Click on the link for a complete review of what is called one of the best hotel rooms in The Netherlands.

3. Zaanse Schans

The Zaanse Schans, one of Netherlands top things to do, I had wanted to visit this place for such a long time. But it’s normally crowded with tourists there, a very popular spot. I guess that has always kept me from visiting. After visiting Kinderdijk earlier this trip, where we were pretty much the only one around, I had high hopes for the Zaanse Schans. Often the parking lot tells a lot about how busy the place you’re visiting is. The parking lot at the Zaanse Schans was empty, which made me very enthusiastic.

The Zaanse Schans is an amazing place to visit, full of windmills, handcraft shops and museums. The Zaanse Schans is actually a residential area, keep in mind, people actually live here! The Dutch 18th and 19th centuries are brought alive here. It feels like walking through an open-air museum.

This place is a unique part of the Netherlands. Where else will you find wooden houses, mills, barns and workshops? Every part tells its own story.

Walk around, buy some cheese, clogs as a souvenir or chocolate, visit a windmill and learn about what they still do there. The Zaanse Schans is a fun day out, and super easy to visit from Amsterdam. It’s located right next to Zaandam, a lovely place with a very relaxed city center with some more classic Dutch architecture to discover. De Zaanse Schans definitely is a must visit place in the Netherlands.

A great place to stay near de Zaanse Schans is the Boutique Hotel STAATS in Haarlem . The Traveltomtom team checked it out, read the full review in the link.

4. Volendam

We had been to Volendam before, more than once even. It’s always a great day out and I love the atmosphere is this quaint town, even on busy and crowded days. However, we got curious to what Volendam would be like these days during the Corona pandemic.

I was shocked, as I had never seen Volendam as empty as it was this June. The famous Dijk was completely empty. A few tourists, but mostly locals were around, so nice. But that was of course due to the pandemic.

From Amsterdam you can easily take a daytrip to Volendam. Consider taking the bus, as this popular Netherlands tourist attraction is located just over 30 minutes from the city center of Amsterdam.

Volendam is a classic Dutch charming harbour village. The Dijk is the most famous part of the town full of shops and restaurants, along the water. All located in traditional wooden buildings. Looking for that cheesy photo in Dutch costume? Volendam is your place to be!

Tourists often only visit Amsterdam, or maybe Volendam if they stay longer, but often don’t explore more of the Zaan Region, just above Amsterdam. We knew there was much more to explore in this region than just Volendam and Amsterdam. The Zaanse Schans for example, but also don’t skip the city of Hoorn. A great little Dutch town, with a huge history to it.

Hoorn, the city of the Golden Age. Hoorn is located directly by the water and was very prosperous during the Golden Age. Hoorn turned out to be the perfect location for the trading routes of the Dutch East India Company. This rich history of Hoorn nowadays lives on in monumental buildings, grand architecture and museums full of historical treasures.

Hoorn is one of the overlooked places to visit in Holland, but totally worth visiting.

Best place to stay around Amsterdam

Hotels in Amsterdam can be expensive, especially in the city center. If you’re keen on exploring both the city of Amsterdam, but also the Zaanse Schans, Hoorn and Volendamand many other highlights to visit around Amsterdam, we might just have the perfect place for you.

Our Netherlands tip for this region is Van der Valk Amsterdam-Oostzaan Hotel . This hotel is located just outside of Amsterdam, along the highway, so it’s very easy to get there. It’s located within half an hour max of the tourists attractions such as Amsterdam, Volendam, Hoorn, Zaanse Schans and Muiderslot. Your perfect gateway to this beautiful part of Holland.

Additional benefit is the free parking offered by Van der Valk Oostzaan. Staying that close to Amsterdam, yet being able to park your car for free, that’s a real bonus!

Another benefit this hotel offers its guests is the shuttle service. No hassle, make sure to book a spot for this service, and they bring you to the city of Amsterdam! They drop you at a free ferry, from where you cross the water to the center of Amsterdam. During the holidays this service is offered on a daily basis, with multiple departure times available.

Looking to explore this region by bike? Good idea, the Van Der Valk Oostzaan hotel offers bike rental and some very interesting and fun bike routes. Just ask at reception for more information.

Booking.com

Van der Valk Amsterdam Oostzaan opened its door to the public just a few years ago, a rather new hotel this is. Something new hotels of the Van der Valk Group have in common is the wellness and fitness areas, often located on the top floors of the hotel. The Amsterdam – Oostzaan hotel is no exception. Make sure to check out the pool, gym and sauna. If you want to do so, please keep in mind that a reservation is required nowadays.

6. Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle is one of the oldest and best-preserved castles of the Netherlands, it was built in 1285. Back then they had just one goal in mind when building this castle, defence!

This famous Dutch castle is located just outside Amsterdam, and therefore really easy to visit. It’s considered one of the must see places in the Netherlands. Reason enough to put it on our itinerary.

Visiting this castle is not free of charge, tickets for Muiderslot Castle are 15,50. This 700-year-old castle is surrounded by water and some beautiful historic gardens. Behind the castle you’ll find the plum orchard of the castles famous resident and writer P.C. Hooft. When the plums were ripe and sweet, he gladly invited his guests to the Muiderslot. He closed his letters with the, now famous phrase ‘Until plum-time!’.

Muiderslot Castle obviously also had to close its doors due to Corona, but they have opened up again, ready to welcome visitors. In fact, they have come up with something really cool and one of my best Netherlands travel tips.

During summer you can camp right next to the castle, how cool is that? You arrive in the afternoon, and have the castle all to yourself. You’ll get a tour through an empty castle, gather around a campfire, and have breakfast delivered to your tent.

If camping is not your thing then I can highly recommend you to check out the Van Der Valk Utrecht Hotel . The Traveltomtom team stayed here, check out the review in the link. Also close by the Muiderslot Castle is the city of Wageningen where you can find the unique Hotel de Wereld where in 1945 the capitulation of Germany troops was signed by Colonel - General Blaskowitz. Here you can relive history, a unique place to stay in The Netherlands!

7. Heeswijk Castle

Heeswijk Castle is located in the South of the Netherlands, just over half an hour from the city of Eindhoven. It is considered the most beautiful castle of the Brabant province and one you won’t often find in a Netherlands travel guide.

The castle is very easily accessible, just follow the signs to the free parking facilities, and walk up to the castle. You can walk all around the castle for free. If you want to visit the castle and see it if from the inside. Tickets for the Heeswijk Castle cost €11 .

The castle is surrounded by woods with plenty of walking tracks around the castle.

Heeswijk Castle has played an important role during World War II. During the massive operation Market Garden, paratroopers were dropped to secure the route of advancing British ground forces. There are multiple information signs around the castle telling you about the history. You can even follow the Liberation Route and learn all about it.

Looking for places to stay around the Heeswijk Castle then try the Hotel Modez in Arnhem . The Traveltomtom team stayed there and came up with 6 reasons why to book this hotel. Read the review in the link. 

8. Fort de Roovere

Fort de Roovere is located in the far west corner of the province of Brabant, close to the border with Zeeland. It is an earthen fort, constructed as part of the Dutch Water Line, the Hollandse Waterlinie, a series of water-based defenses.

In recent years extensive renovations have been done to the fort, as it had fallen into major disrepair.  What got me really curious to visit this place is the Moses Bridge. This bridge appears to divide the water, so we know where it gets its name from. It seems like this bridge crosses through the water, something unique.

Looking for some aerial views? Just recently the Pompejus watchtower was added to the area and opened to the public. Fort de Roovere for sure is an off the beaten path tourist destination in the Netherlands away from the crowds.

9. Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is probably as Dutch as it gets, this tourist attraction is why people visit the Netherlands, and Kinderdijk is how people think of and see the Netherlands. No wonder this UNESCO World Heritage site is a popular place to visit, that attracts thousands of tourists every year.

The Kinderdijk windmill complex is unique in the world, you won’t find this anywhere else in the world. We Dutch have always struggled with water, these windmills and pumping stations have been keeping the soil dry here for centuries now.

You can actually walk around here for free, no entrance. If you want to visit the museum mills or sail along the windmills, you would need to buy an entrance ticket, which you have to do prior to your arrival to Kinderdijk. This is one of these Dutch tourist hotspots that is crowded in any given normal situation, but due to the corona crisis there were only a handful of people, perfect!

Best place to stay around Kinderdijk

Our recommendation for a place to stay when visiting Kinderdijk is Van der Valk Hotel Dordrecht . It is located at cycling distance from the Biesbosch National Park, and just a short 10-minute drive to the city center of Dordrecht. You can rent bikes from the hotel to discover the highlights in Dordrecht, even cycle to Kinderdijk which is a 19 kilometer bike ride. All easy and flat terrain and the best way to visit Holland anyway. Stay active!

Van der Valk Hotel Dordrecht is conveniently located right next to the A16 highway, which makes this hotel very easily accessible.

Next to that, and because the Netherlands is just a small country, it is also located within reasonable distance of attractions like Kinderdijk, the Deltaworks and the beaches of Scheveningen, all within an hour drive of the hotel.

This hotel has an amazing wellness center right at the top. This wellness center offers a pool, fitness area and sauna. Also located on the top floor of the hotel is the skybar. It’s one of Dordrecht best bars to have a drink. Perfect to enjoy a drink on a summer evening, while enjoying the views from up here.

10. Dordrecht

Dordrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, and with the Biesbosch as its backyard, Dordrecht is a great place to stay and explore.

The city of Dordrecht is full of monuments. The town hall for example was built in the 14th century. One of the biggest highlights of the city is the Grote Kerk. The famous church of Dordrecht is often listed as one of the top places to visit in Netherlands.

From monuments to modern shops, Dordrecht offers it all, yet not too busy like its bustling neighbour Rotterdam for example, which makes it a great day trip when visiting the Netherlands.

11. National Park the Biesbosch

National Park the Biesbosch is one of the many national parks in the Netherlands. It’s spread over two provinces, Zuid Holland and Brabant, however, most of the Biesbosch is located in Brabant. The Biesbosch is the largest fresh water tidal zone in Europe, which means you can find many streams and willow swamps here. Going deep into the Biesbosch the area looks just like a jungle.

Most of these areas are only accessible by boat. The Biesbosch is a paradise for nature lovers, you’re surrounded by nature and wildlife. The possibilities to explore the Biesbosch are endless, by boat, walking or cycling. Go out, explore and experience this National Park a great thing to do in The Netherlands.

There are 2-hour boat tours into the jungle of the Netherlands that cost €15. Boat tours are not every day. Click here for more info about the Biesbosch .

12. Deltaworks Neeltje Jans

The Delta Works are one of the most renowned works in the world, and the largest storm surge barrier in the world. In the Zeeland province they call it the Eighth Wonder of the World, which emphasizes the importance of the Delta Works to the Netherlands.

The Netherlands, and the province of Zeeland in particular, is largely located at or below sea level. The Delta Works were built to prevent a repeat of the 1953 flooding disaster. You can visit and explore these huge storm barriers. Walk across or get toured around. Tickets for Neeltje Jans cost €25 .

But there is much more to see and do here. Have some fun in the waterpark, visit Zeeland’s largest aquarium, visit seals and sea lions or go on a boat trip on the Oosterschelde.

13. Parkstad Limburg

Parkstad Limburg is the fastest growing tourist destination in the Netherlands. It has the largest indoor ski park in Europe, the longest staircase in the Netherlands, the largest home-improvement boulevard in Europe, the most modern and innovative zoo in Europe and the largest world-themed gardens park in the Netherlands. If this is not enough reason to visit this region, then what is? This region is located in the very South of the Netherlands, close to the Heuvelland region, Maastricht, and the borders of Germany and Belgium.

In Parkstad Limburg you will also find Heerlen, the street art capital of the Netherlands . The murals in Heerlen appeal to the imagination internationally.

There are so many cool things to do in Parkstad Limburg and it’s not just the region that is award winning here, how about the award-winning Gaia Zoo? Opened in 2005, ever since its opening this Zoo has won one award after the other. Among many other awards, it’s been awarded Best Zoo of the Netherlands, and for years in a row now it’s also been awarded Best Day Out in the Netherlands.

Want to know more about this region and the street art capital of the Netherlands? Check out our blog about the best things to do in Heerlen . Best place to stay in Parkstad Limburg

The Parkstad region isn’t that large, but still has a lot to offer. So when visiting this region, be sure to visit for more than one day. We did the work for you and found you the best place to stay in Parkstad Limburg.

Van der Valk Hotel Heerlen offers the perfect location in the heart of Parkstad, and close to all the highlights this region has to offer. It’s located along the N281 motorway, so very easily accessible. From this hotel you can explore the Street Art Capital of the Netherlands by foot or by bike. Attractions like Snowworld and the Gaia Zoo are only a very short drive away.

Hotel Heerlen is part of the estate of Terworm. Estate Terworm is a nature reserve offering various possibilities for relaxation. Very suitable for jogging, walking, cycling, with routes from 4 to 7 kilometers. So after a long and active day out, this is the perfect place to enjoy and relax.

Another great place to stay in Zuid - Limburg is the Heuvelland, the only place where Holland is NOT flat! Check out the most beautiful scenery and viewpoints of Holland when staying at the Hotel Klein Zwitserland  in the picturesque little town of Slenaken.

14. Pyramid of Austerlitz

In the weeks before our Netherlands roadtrip I did some research. I knew a lot of places to visit in Netherlands, but I was also looking for some unknown, never heard of spots I wanted to add to our Netherlands itinerary.

One of these places to visit I had never heard of before, is the Pyramid of Austerlitz. I thought pyramids only existed in Egypt, but I know now that we actually have a very cool one in the Netherlands too.

While the Pyramid itself was still closed during our visit, due to the Corona crisis, we could actually get quite close. If you want to climb the pyramid you have to buy a ticket, but like I said, you can get really close, and walk all around it without buying a ticket as well.

The Pyramid of Austerlitz is tucked away in the forests of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Absolutely a great location, hidden away, a short walk through the forest before the pyramid appears.

The Pyramid of Austerlitz was built in 1804 by Napoleon’s soldiers, they chose one of the highest points of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. The Pyramid is a national monument, and a must do when visiting Netherlands. Not classic Dutch, but it will surprise you! This pyramid is located only a short, 25-minute drive from Utrecht.

Not directly nearby but within 45 minute drive you will find another great place to visit in Holland: Den Bosch. In this city you can sleep in an old crane and the coolest thing: it is still working! This old crane is converted into a hotel room and from your bed, you can turn your hotel room 360 degrees if you want. NO JOKE! Check out the complete blog about the Bossche Kraan Hotel , one of the most unique places to stay in the Netherlands.

15. Wadden Islands - Texel

Travelling the Netherlands isn’t complete without visiting one of our Wadden Islands. The Netherlands have five inhabited Wadden Islands: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. With Texel being the largest and most populated of our Dutch Islands, we decided to add Texel to our itinerary along the best places to visit.

It’s very easy to get from the Dutch mainland to Texel. Drive all the way up to Den Helder, which is actually quite an interesting place itself to pay a visit to.

Den Helder is home to the Netherlands main navy base. This all dates back to 1811, when Napoleon Bonaparte visited Den Helder, and was impressed with the towns strategic location. So impressed that he ordered the construction of a fort and naval dockyards. In 1947 Den Helder officially became the Royal Netherlands Navy’s main centre of operations. An interesting museum to visit when in Den Helder is the Dutch Navy Museum.

So, from Den Helder the Royal TESO ferryboat service operates between the city and the nearby Wadden Island Texel. You can see Texel from the mainland when waiting for the ferry.

Insiders Netherlands tip: Travel to Texel on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, if you do so, you’ll receive a 30% discount on the ferry.

When docking in at Texel, they can’t be missed, the Texel sheep. The Texel is a breed of sheep, originally from, yes the Island of Texel. Everything made of wool can be bought in shops across Texel.

The dune landscape on Texel is unique and a great habitat for wildlife. About one third of the island is a protected nature reserve. The best way to explore Texel is by bike, but you have to withstand the sometimes strong winds. You can rent bikes all over the island!

Often seen as the symbol of Texel is the red lighthouse at the northern end of the island. You can also climb the lighthouse.

Views from up there include the North Sea, the Wadden Sea and the next Wadden Island Vlieland. When it’s dark, the light of this lighthouse can be seen from as far as Leeuwarden.

De Koog is the so-called seaside town of Texel. Just a few dunes separate the village from the ocean and the beach. De Koog is a nice place to spend a few hours, it has a great shopping center, some lovely restaurants and some nice beach clubs.

Den Burg is considered the capital of Texel, nearly half of the population of Texel live in Den Burg. This lovely little town has a lot to offer. Great shopping opportunities, plenty of terraces to have a drink, it’s just a great little town to walk through. There is more than enough things to do when visiting Texel, perfect for a day trip, but enjoying a sunset and a sunrise here is even more magical.

16. The Afsluitdijk

After visiting Texel it was time to do something that had been on our so called Netherlands Bucketlist for a very long time. It may sound stupid, because this is often seen as ‘just’ a highway connecting two provinces, but the Afsluitdijk is so much more than that!

The Afsluitdijk is a major dam in the Netherlands and famous place to see, completed in 1932. This means the Afsluitdijk has been protecting the Netherlands from the force of water for nearly 90 years now. The total length of the dike is 32.5 km. The dike is more than just a water barrier. It’s a motorway connecting two Dutch provinces as well. Everyday thousands of people use the A7 motorway to travel between Noord-Holland and Friesland. The Afsluitdijk was the initial demonstration site for a 130km/h speed limit in the Netherlands.

The Afsluitdijk is currently under construction, to make it even more future proof, for many more years to come. Once construction works are done, the Dijk will be stronger, higher and more robust looking. There is so much to see, not just the Afsluitdijk itself. Here is the Afsluitdijk Wikipedia page for even more info.

Enjoy the Wadden Sea, visit the Afsluitdijk Wadden Centre or the monument right in the middle of the Afsluitdijk. Part of the construction works and upgrades to the dike are a new cycle and walking path, imaginable with endless views on the Wadden Sea.

One of the first major cities you’ll come across after crossing the Afsluitdijk into Friesland is the city of Sneek. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to spend as much time in the city as I wanted, one has to make choices while travelling, which means we only had time for a brief stop in Sneek. However, Sneek has an amazing relaxed and laidback atmosphere.

Sneek is one of the Friese Elf Steden (eleven cities). The Elfstedentocht, or eleven cities tour, is a long-distance ice-skating event in the province of Friesland. It’s almost 200 kilometers long and passes all eleven historical towns of the province. The Dutch haven’t had an Elfstedentocht for years, the last one was in 1997. Even King Willem Alexander participated and finished!

Sneek is well known for its canals and of course for the Waterpoort, the symbol of the city. Visiting Sneek in the summer? Try to visit the Sneekweek, Europe’s biggest sailing event.

If you want the best photos of the Waterpoort from the best point of view, don’t go towards the end of the day. The sun sets behind the Waterpoort, which is not ideal for getting the best photos!

18. Groningen

Groningen, both a province and a city in the Netherlands. Both well worth it and great things to do in Netherlands. In this blog we talk about the city of Groningen. It is the largest city in the north of the Netherlands. Even though Groningen isn’t actually the biggest city, it has an important role as the main center of the northern part of the Netherlands. Besides that, Groningen is a real university city, which really contributes to a diverse cultural scene for the city.

Our reason for visiting Groningen was to explore the city everyone always says you just have to visit when traveling to Netherlands, and to see the famous Martinitoren.

Located at the main market square in Groningen, this symbol of the city can’t be missed. The Martinitoren is Groningen’s famous church. It’s one of the main tourist attractions of the city. You can actually climb the tower and enjoy some great views over the city and surrounding areas.

The center of Groningen, surrounding the Martinitoren and the main market square is absolutely worth a visit. There are plenty of shopping opportunities in the nearby streets. Done shopping? Try one of the many restaurants and bars, a great time guaranteed in this bustling city.

19. Vesting Bourtange Fortress

From the city of Groningen, move east towards the German border for a real hidden gem of the Netherlands. This was also one of these things I had never heard of before and never found in a Netherlands travel guide. But when I came across it on the internet, just had to add it to our Netherlands itinerary.

Bourtange fortress is a unique historical defence work. Meet Fortress Bourtange, the fortress that was never taken. Have a look at the Fort Bourtange website , it looks amazing from above.

From the seventies until the nineties last century massive reconstructions took place at the Fortress Bourtange. Digging the canals again, forming the ramparts and reconstructing the many buildings, all in the style of the past. They did this massively with the help of old maps and drawings. Welcome in the year 1742, that’s certainly what it feels like when walking through Bourtange, stepping back in time.

20. Hunebedden

The Hunebeds, prehistoric tombstones, are the oldest monuments in the Netherlands. They were actually transported to Drenthe during the Ice Age, can you imagine?

There are actually 52 Hunebeds to visit in a 30-kilometer radius. So, doing them all might be a bit too much. Thankfully Visit Drenthe has come up with the ‘Big Five’, just for you to discover the best of the prehistoric history in Drenthe in one fell swoop.

Great idea! And that’s why we decided to do the Big Five and discover the best of the Hunebeds. Part of the Big Five is the largest Hunebed (D27) of them all. When visiting the largest Hunebed, you’ll pass the Hunebed Visitor Centre, which is definitely worth a visit! It gives you an idea of how the people who built these Hunebeds used to live.

Visiting the Hunebeds is often listed as one of the top things to do in the Netherlands.

21. Camp Westerbork

Probably the most impressive place we visited on our Netherlands tour was visiting Camp Westerbork. Hidden away in the woods, it makes sense why they chose this location for such a horrible place. Camp Westerbork was known as the foyer of Hell during the Second World War. It was a transit camp to concentration camps like Auschwitz and Sobibor.

When it was built in 1939 it was first used as a refugee camp then turned into a transit camp. A total of 93 trains left from Westerbork, eventually killing 102.000 people.

ssThe camp itself is accessible free of charge. You can’t get to the camp by car. You’ll have to park your car at the museum’s carpark. From there it’s roughly a 2.9km walk to get to the camp. Normally there is a shuttlebus running between the camp and the museum, however due to Corona, that service is currently not running. The museum entrance fee is €10 . But it is well worth a visit, where you will learn a lot about Westerbork’s history.

22. Radio Sterrenwacht

We parked our car at the Camp Westerbork museum and made our way towards the camp. It’s a nice walk, through the woods. All of a sudden, we bumped into 14 huge satellite dishes. Apparently, we ran into the Westerbork Synthese Radio Telescope.

This telescope, built in 1970, is one of the most sensitive telescopes in the world. It consists of 14 satellite dishes, each 25 meters in diameter.

The walk from the Westerbork Museum to Camp Westerbork will guide you along this telescope. In fact, this walkway is called the Milkyway-walk. It’s a very interesting, fun and beautiful walking route on which the fascinating world of the universe and the largest radio telescopes in Europe play a central role and are explained. Both young and old learn about the operation of these enormous satellite dishes.

23. TT Assen Circuit Tour

One of the biggest events of the Netherlands is the MotoGP at the TT Assen. The TT Assen is a circuit mainly used for the MotoGP, but also for numerous other events and activities. You can visit the track on one of the many events taking place each year, or you can book a tour, and get a look behind the scenes.

Into Moto GP? Then this could be very interesting for you. They have the so called ‘Tour de TT’ in Assen. The Tour de TT is 65 kilometers long and takes you to the two old street circuits. Have a taste of what the circuits used to be back in the days as street circuits and enjoy and explore the surrounding areas.

24. Giethoorn

Giethoorn is known for its bridges, waterways and punts, no wonder it is called the ‘Venice of the North’ and one the most famous tourist attractions in the Netherlands.

This idyllic village is located in the Weerribben-Wieden National Park. There are countless thatched farmhouses, built on small islands, connected by more than 170 wooden bridges. The best way to explore Giethoorn is by foot or by boat. There is plenty of time to do both in one day!

Walking along these pretty houses gives you the opportunity to have a look at the many shops and restaurants. You can go on organized cruises on the waters of Giethoorn, where you will be told a lot about the history and the present of Giethoorn.

I would advise to rent a boat yourself and explore the place at your own pace. Boat rents start from 1 hour to a full day. I rented one for an hour, where you cruise through the main canals of Giethoorn and over the Bovenwijde lake.

Giethoorn was one of the top highlights of this Netherlands trip, something I had never seen or done before, unique to the Netherlands. Tourists were still staying away when we visited, keep in mind that this place gets packed any other time!

Where to stay around Giethoorn

Assen and the Drenthe province really surprised me. A lot of nature, forests and national parks, something I really like, the outdoors. As there is so much to do in this region, looking for a centrally and perfectly located hotel was important and a challenge. So I was extremely happy when I found the Van der Valk Hotel in Assen , right in the middle of it all!

It’s the ideal place to stay when discovering the Hunebeds, the TT Assen, Camp Westerbork and Giethoorn, all within short driving distance of the hotel. Drenthe is pre-eminently a walking and biking province. There are so many walking and cycling routes and opportunities.

Hotel Assen warmly welcomes you to have the best time in Drenthe. Hotel Assen has bikes for rent, your start to a thousands of kilometers signposted cycle route network. The hotel has their very own kitchen garden. Herbs, vegetables and fruits fresh from the garden to their restaurant. People working in this kitchen garden are people that are distanced from the labor market and by doing this they gain more relevant work experience.

This hotel is currently working on a new wellness center. Soin the near future you can enjoy a relaxed time at the new wellness after an active day outdoors.

25. Rotterdam - One of World's Biggest Ports

Rotterdam, the 2nd biggest city of the Netherlands and one of the largest ports in the world. It has so many cool places to visit and exciting things to do, I don’t even know where to start really.

From the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the icon of the city, to the cube houses, the market hall and the bustling center, these are some of the best Rotterdam activities.

Even if you only have a short amount of time in the city, make sure the Euromast is part of your visit. The Euromast offers you the best 360 degrees views of the city. Overlooking the Erasmus Bridge, the ss Rotterdam and the famous port of Rotterdam.

When visiting the Euromast, you can combine your visit with a fun 18-hole midget golf course, right next to the Euromast. It’s a very popular thing to do in Rotterdam, and I have to admit, playing some (midget) golf in the center of a city like Rotterdam, that is pretty special.

Another Amazing place to see is the ss Rotterdam. This former ocean liner and cruise ship can be visited nowadays, where you can tour this ship and get to know all about its history and present. Keep reading because I have a great recommendation that has something to do with the ss Rotterdam.

Check out my article on the best things to do in Rotterdam for even more recommendations when traveling to Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is one of the largest ports of the world, how cool would it be to explore this port? Well, you actually can! Spido Rotterdam offers a wide range of port tours and cruises where you get to explore and learn about the importance of the port.

Where to stay in Rotterdam

As second city of the Netherlands Rotterdam obviously offers plenty of accommodation opportunities. However, I have found a unique place to stay, it’s a gem

My top recommendation for places to stay is the ss Rotterdam . You can actually sleep in former cabins of this steamship, and experience how ocean life was like back in the days. Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild, it almost really feels like you’re actually cruising the ocean!

The ss Rotterdam is located in the center of the city, and very easily accessible. You can leave your car at the carpark right next to the ship. You can also arrive by water taxi, as they have special platforms for arrival and departure with these unique taxis.

Looking for the most unique and special place to stay while visiting Rotterdam, stop looking, because it doesn’t get any more special than the ss Rotterdam. Quickly check out their rates and start booking , because a trip to Rotterdam is waiting for you!

26. The Pooping Man & The Batavia

Sometimes you pass some amazing things just by chance. That happened to us when we were travelling the Netherlands and by sheer coincidence passed the amazing sculpture the Exposure, also known as the Crouching Man. Freely translated they also call him the pooping man in the Netherlands, I can see why. This statue is located on a breakwater at the Houtrib locks in Lelystad, overlooking the Markermeer, a shallow lake.

On September 17, 2010 it was unveiled by the artist, and since then it has been a curious sight, but also very popular place to visit in the Netherlands for tourists to take their Instagram shots.

We were actually visiting the Bataviastad Fashion Outlet in Lelystad, when all of a sudden I saw this famous sculpture in the far distance. We jumped back in to our car and drove out to see it closer.

Bataviastad Fashion Outlet is the first ever Outlet Center in the Netherlands, located at the Markermeer in Lelystad. De outlet was named after the Batavia ship from 1628, of which you can find a replica nearby at the Bataviawerf.

The shopping center is an imitation of a fortified town, complete with a heavy city wall, three city gates, pedestrianized cobblestone streets and a series of individual wooden shop buildings with a quasi-authentic architectural appearance. It is partly inspired by the small town of Marken, partly by the West Indian colonies.

As mentioned earlier, right next to this shopping center you’ll find the impressive Batavia, a replica of the Batavia. You can actually visit and explore this ship and discover what life at sea was like in the 17th century. It’s an impressive sight for sure.

27. Tulip Fields in the Bulb Region

The Dutch Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) with its gorgeous flower fields is by far one of the most famous and popular places to visit in the Netherlands. It is located in the Western parts of the Netherlands. The region became famous for its bulb cultivation. Nowadays the flower fields in this part of the Netherlands attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. It’s a fun and diverse region to visit, offering cities, lovely villages, beaches and of course perfect opportunities to take incredible pictures. Therefore the tulip fields are regarded as one of the most Instagrammable places in the Netherlands.

The most famous tourist attraction of the Bollenstreek has to be the Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe. They host a world renowned 8 week tulip display. It’s one of the largest flower gardens in the world.

Another big thing in the Bollenstreek is Bloemencorso, an annual flower parade and flower spectacle. It follows a 42km itinerary from Noordwijk to Haarlem. Along the route you can enjoy some of the most amazing creations and beautifully designed floats, full with narcissi, hyacinths, tulips and other flowers!

When visiting the Bollenstreek simply explore by foot, car, bike, scooter, whatever you choose, go out and explore the many tulip and flower fields this region has to offer. It’s what the Bollenstreek became famous for, and what still attracts many tourists to this part of the Netherlands. Some flower fields actually look like rainbows, very impressive and magical!

Check out our extensive blog post about the Bollenstreek for 9 tips when visiting the Tulip Fields in the Netherlands .

28. Achterhoek

The Dutch Achterhoek is a large area in the east of the country, close to the German border. For some reason it’s an area that isn’t visited that often, and that’s a real shame! Before we visited the Achterhoek I had little expectations, just because I simply didn’t know the area that well and didn’t know what to expect.

Now that I have visited the Achterhoek for 5 days I actually really like the area. I would sum it up as: castles, vast nature, big farms, small quaint and picturesque villages and narrow country roads. Perfect ingredients to add it to this list of best places to visit in The Netherlands.

One of the best places to visit in the Achterhoek is the smallest city in the Netherlands, Bronkhorst. It’s literally a church, a main street, a few houses, some shops and restaurants, that’s it. It takes you less than 5 minutes to see all of Bronkhorst, but it’s on top of our list of things to do in the Achterhoek. It feels like stepping back in time. No cars are allowed in the little village, so make sure to park your car just outside.

Castles really define the Achterhoek. You can easily visit the Achterhoek for a few days and visit multiple castles each day. We selected a few of them to visit as we love visiting these unique places but also tourist attractions. Our top castle recommendations for the Achterhoek are: the Ruurlo Castle and Huis Bergh Castle. Another recommendation is the Eight Castle Route . This one starts from the Vorden Castle, and is a lovely cycling route along eight castles in the area. A great way to explore and experience the area.

The Achterhoek is also well known for its tea gardens. Locals welcome you to their tea garden to enjoy their homemade delicacies. It’s also the place to be to buy regional products. You can also do some lovely shopping in towns like Zutphen or Doetinchem.

Want to know more about the Achterhoek? Check out the website of the local Tourism Board to find more things to see and do and hotspots to visit and places to stay in the Achterhoek. The people at Achterhoek Tourism are happy to help you out with a full itinerary.

29. National Park de Hoge Veluwe

The Veluwe region is a large forest-ridge area in the province of Gelderland. It stretches 60km from North to South and reaches heights of up to 110 meters, which in Holland is high. The Veluwe features many different landscapes including woodland, heath and some small lakes. You can also find Europe’s largest sand drifts in the Veluwe and therefore, definitely worth mentioning in this list of awesome places to visit in The Netherlands.

Within the Veluwe region there are a few National Parks: de Hoge Veluwe National Park and the Veluwezoom National Park. These National Parks are perfect places to truly enjoy the beauty and the nature sites of the Netherlands. You can visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park by car, but the best way to explore them is to go by foot or by bike, as you see much more, and cover areas that are away from the main roads. It’s also the perfect place to spot wildlife, but as always with wildlife, you have to be lucky. If you’re lucky though, you might spot deer, wild boar, mouflon, foxes and highland cattle.

The largest city to visit within the Veluwe region is Apeldoorn. Apeldoorn is probably most famous because of some famous and popular tourist attractions, like Royal Palace 'The Loo', Apenheul Zoo and theme park Koningin Julianatoren. It’s also a good base if you want to visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The Veluwe region has a couple other things to do beside visiting the National Park. Here are some of our favorite places to see in the Veluwe.

The Netherlands is a very flat country, but even for a flat country there is a highest waterfall to visit. The Loenense waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Netherlands, and when visiting the Veluwe, absolutely worth a stop. It’s located in the forest, so you can even explore the area a bit more if you like.

Something we didn’t know, but found quite cool once we visited is the exact center of the Netherlands. It is located in Lunteren, in the middle of the forest, so it could be a little search. But once you reach it there is a stone marking the exact center of the country, which I think is quite cool!

Radio Kootwijk is a national monument, and was used as a communication facility between the Netherlands and the colony of Dutch East Indies. Nowadays it is used as a venue for several cultural events and productions, including the American film Mindhunters in 2004. It’s also a popular place to get married in The Netherlands, and for us a must visit for the Veluwe!

Where to stay in the Veluwe?

Van der Valk Apeldoorn is located right next to the A50 highway, and therefor super easily accessible. It’s a lovely and quiet hotel, surrounded by nature, it really feels like being in the middle of the Veluwe already. They have a vegetable garden, chickens and an apiary, they’re really busy with nature and natural products. It’s a great and affordable option when visiting the Veluwe, and easily to combine with a day of shopping in Apeldoorn.

The Traveltomtom recently also stayed in Wageningen at Hotel de Wereld , and fell in love with this place and the story to it. A true icon in the Netherlands where in 1945 the negotiations took place for the liberation of the Netherlands during the second world war. Read more about it in the link.

Last but certainly not least we highly recommend Hotel de Sterrenberg if you’re into the nature and planning on visiting the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Hotel de Sterrenberg is an adult only hotel, and is located only 500 meters from the gates to the Veluwe National Park.

30. Deventer | East Holland

Thinking about doing a city trip in the Netherlands, not many people would come up with Deventer in the East side of the country. But when visiting Veluwe National Park and the Achterhoek region, the city of Deventer is pretty much the perfect city to visit.

It is a small but charming city and visiting Deventer for 1 night is enough. It is worth it though and since it has such a nice and great vibe it might want to make you stay longer. Let’s start with the best place to visit in Deventer to see its skyline. Cross the water by bridge or by ferry and you will have a lovely view of Deventer’s skyline.

Town square the Brink is the bustling center of Deventer. We visited on a weekday, and were surprised how crowded the restaurants and terraces were, very lively and great atmosphere.

The best way to explore Deventer and get to know the city is by doing a city walk. The local tourism office organizes these walks every day and will show you the best of Deventer during a 1.5 hour walk. Pre-registration is required to participate in this tour and the costs are €6 per person.

Deventer is also known for its Deventer Koek (a bit like gingerbread) and something you must try when visiting Deventer. Make sure to take a look at the authentic shop at the town square. This Charles Dickens-esque little shop full of delicacies from grandmother's time will make your mouth water. Of course you will find all original products here. Fresh Deventer Koek is also baked here.

Our top recommendation to stay in Deventer is most definitely Hotel Huis Vermeer . This unique boutique hotel is located in the center of the city which makes it your perfect base to enjoy and explore Deventer. To find out more about this hotel, check our full blog post: Hotel Huis Vermeer Review. 

Netherlands travel blog

Traveling the Netherlands, our own backyard, has been a blast. Especially because it was quiet everywhere due to the Corona pandemic. We visited tourist hotspots, top attractions and must-see places that normally would see hundreds of people a day, and we were actually the only one walking around now. Shooting photos for this Netherlands blog has never been this easy.

This blog was written by travel writer and Traveltomtom team member Ashley . She explored the Netherlands on behalf of Traveltomtom, seeking for the best tourist attractions and some unique off the beaten path destinations and hidden gems. Have a look at her Instagram .

I hope all these Netherlands travel tips were helpful for your next adventure. Safe travels!

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023

The Netherlands is known everywhere as a land of windmills, canals, and tulips, and today's visitors certainly will find these among its many tourist attractions.

But along with the country's many breathtaking gardens and picturesque villages, those sightseeing here will also find the vibrant cities, like Amsterdam, filled with museums showcasing a rich heritage of artists (think Rembrandt and Van Gogh). Other places to visit include numerous medieval castles and cityscapes, along with a 13,800-acre national park, and a tide control system that's been named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World .

Given the relatively small size of The Netherlands, all these attractions and fun things to do are within a relatively compact area, and the landscape is quite flat (the highest elevation is barely a thousand feet above sea level).

Consequently, it's extremely easy to do at least a little of your sightseeing the Dutch way: by bicycle. Many of the top travel destinations and major cities in the Netherlands actively encourage the use of pedal-power and provide free bikes to explore the sights. However you choose to see the Netherlands, you're guaranteed a great time in one of the friendliest and most liberal cultures in Europe.

Be sure to plan your travel itinerary with our list of the top tourist attractions in The Netherlands.

Jordaan and Amsterdam's Canals

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Highlight : Explore Amsterdam's canals and historic neighborhoods by boat and on foot

Canals are as important a part of Amsterdam's cityscape as they are to the city of Venice, and some of the most enduring memories for any visitor are the time spent exploring the city's wonderful waterways.

While many of Amsterdam's best tourist attractions can easily be accessed by boat tour or water taxi — including most of the major museums and art galleries — nothing beats strolling along the smaller, quieter streets that line the waterways.

Particularly charming is the Jordaan, a neighborhood built in the early 1600s to house workers and immigrants drawn here for the city's religious tolerance. Along with its small canal-side houses, look for the neighborhood's many "hofjes," the quaint inner courtyards hidden behind the buildings.

Another photo-worthy neighborhood is the Grachtengordel , with its many small bridges and quaint 17th-century homes. You'll be rewarded as you explore these 400-year-old streets with examples of beautiful architecture, small boutique shops, cafés, and gardens. Be sure to look out for the many houseboats moored along the canals.

Just a 10-minute stroll away is Dam Square, a must-visit when in Amsterdam. In addition to its numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops this vast public square is home to some of the city's most-visited tourist attractions. These include the spectacular Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace); the attractive New Church (Nieuwe Kerk); and the country's most important war memorial, the National Memorial Statue .

Highlight : Europe's largest collection of tulips with miles of walking trails and hot houses

Think of the Netherlands, and you'll inevitably think of tulips, the country's most popular flower. And one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands showcases these and other spring bulbs in spectacular abundance. Given its handy location relative to Amsterdam — it's a 45-minute drive away, or just under an hour by public transit — it makes for a fun and easy day trip from the country's largest city.

Keukenhof, otherwise known as the "Garden of Europe," is located on the outskirts of the town of Lisse in what's widely considered the "bulb belt" of the Netherlands. The largest public garden in the world, it boasts more than 70 acres of what was once the former kitchen (or "keuken") garden of a large country estate, Keukenhof displays more than 700 varieties of tulips, which are at their height in April and May.

But thanks to its massive commercial hot houses, the display continues almost year-round. In these, you'll see endless rows of flowering tulips, along with thousands of hyacinths, crocuses, and daffodils.

Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands

Highlight : A vast collection of famous artworks by artists including Rembrandt and Van Gogh

The spectacular Rijksmuseum , aka the National Museum, in Amsterdam's Museumplein (Museum Square) has been collecting rare art and antiquities since 1809. Not surprisingly, its extensive collection today amounts to nearly seven million works of art, including 5,000 paintings in more than 250 rooms, as well as a vast library with some 35,000 books.

Apart from its unique collection of old masters, this spectacular museum offers an exhaustive account of the development of art and culture in The Netherlands and is especially rich in traditional Dutch handicrafts, medieval sculpture, and modern art. Be prepared to spend the best part of a day — or longer — exploring this museum's endless treasures.

If you've time to squeeze a little more Rembrandt into your Amsterdam travel itinerary, here's a must-visit for you: the Rembrandt House Museum , located in the city's historic Jewish Quarter. Many of his best-known works were painted during the 20 years the great artist spent here, with some still recognizable scenes from the neighborhood.

The house remains much as it would have been during Rembrandt's life (guided tours are available). You can enhance your experience by booking a stay close by at Luxury Suites Amsterdam , located just steps away from the museum and one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam for those who enjoy luxury accommodations.

Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Historic capital of the Netherlands with well-preserved architecture and parliament

Known the world over as the location of the International Court of Justice, The Hague (Den Haag) is also the political center of The Netherlands. It's here the country's government does their work, and where you'll find the home of the Dutch Royal Family in Noordeinde Palace.

The Hague also makes for an excellent travel destination for visitors wanting to get a taste of the country's rich history. Whether you're staying here for a few days or visiting as a day trip from Amsterdam , start your exploration in the city's historic Binnenhof district. Literally translated as the "Inner Court," the Binnenhof dates back as far as 1250 CE. It's the oldest part of the city and a delight to explore on foot.

Set around a central courtyard, the attractive older buildings here once housed the country's ruling classes and have been remarkably well-preserved. The crown jewel here is the Knights' Hall (Ridderzaal). Built in the 13th century, this imposing castle-like building with its twin towers is still in use for government events, including the opening of parliament every September. Highlights include the Gothic hall with its stained-glass windows and wood-beamed ceiling.

Address: 2513 AA Den Haag, Netherlands

Highlight : Hiding place of Anne Frank where she wrote her famous diary during WWII

The Anne Frank House is a must-see when in Amsterdam. On Prinsengracht , in the home where Anne's family hid for much of WWII (they were Jewish refugees from Frankfurt), is where this remarkable girl wrote her famous diary. Although she died just two months before the war ended, her legacy lives on through her words, which have since been translated into 51 languages.

The back of the fully-restored house where the Frank family had their hiding place has been kept in its original state as much as possible and is a poignant monument to a tragic slice of world history and a brave young woman who continues to inspire people around the globe.

A word of caution: tickets for this must-see attraction do sell out, so be sure to reserve yours online well ahead of time. And if you're visiting in warmer weather — spring and summer are widely considered some of the best times to visit Amsterdam — be sure to allow time to explore the surrounding area with its charming old canals on foot.

Address: Prinsengracht 263-267, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Europe's largest port with a historic harbor area, vessels, and museums

Located an easy one-hour train ride from Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam is well worth visiting for its well-preserved Old Harbour, or Oude Haven. The city has a long and rich maritime history thanks largely to its location on the Nieuwe Maas, an arm of the Rhine River, and its proximity to the English Channel.

Part of Rotterdam's superb Maritime District, Oude Haven is ideal for those who enjoy seeing the sights on foot. The harbor is chock-full of old houseboats and sailing ships, many of them on display at the Maritime Museum Rotterdam .

In addition to the 20 or so historic vessels on display in the water, a variety of indoor displays can also be enjoyed, including a replica of a vessel dating back over 2,000 years.

Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : One of the world's top art museums focusing on the work of Vincent Van Gogh

As befits one of the world's greatest artists, the spectacular Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is ranked an impressive #2 in a leading list of the top art museums globally, attracting almost 1.5 million visitors each year.

Home to the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings — many donated by the artist's family — this impressive gallery and museum was specially built to showcase the more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters in its vast collection.

Works by his contemporaries are also on display. A highlight is participating in the museum's new "Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience," which offers a fascinating, high-tech, interactive look at the artist's life and times, as well as his best-known work.

If the city's excellent museums are your priority, you may in fact want to consider visiting them off-season during the quieter, cooler times of year. Given that both these popular attractions are things to do indoors and easy to get to via the city's excellent public transit, it's easy to keep warm, and the city's climate is relatively mild, even in winter.

Address: Museumplein 6, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlight : The largest collection of preserved historic windmills in the Netherlands

On the River Noord between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the famous village of Kinderdijk ("Children's Dike"), which takes its name from an incident during the St. Elizabeth's Day flood of 1421 after a child's cradle had been stranded on the dike.

The big draw these days are the fantastically preserved 18th-century windmills. Now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the 19 Kinderdijk windmills, built between 1722 and 1761, are the largest surviving concentration of windmills in the Netherlands.

Originally used to drain the fenlands, these majestic buildings with their impressive 92-foot sails are open to the public from April to October, including special Mill Days when the sails are set in motion. These picturesque windmills make for a fun excursion for those based in Rotterdam during their Netherlands stay.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Rotterdam & Easy Day Trips

Highlights : Vast national park with hiking, biking, wildlife, horseback riding, and camping

You may be surprised to learn that the Netherlands, a relatively small country, boasts one of the world's most diverse national park programs. The largest is De Hoge Veluwe National Park (Nationaal Park De Hoge Veluwe), between Arnhem and Apeldoorn, rightly considered one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands for outdoor enthusiasts .

Covering nearly 13,800 acres, this national park is the largest continuous nature reserve in the country, as well as being one of the most popular day trip destinations for locals and visitors alike. Featuring dense woodlands in the north, as well as a fascinating sculpture park, the area was once a country estate and hunting reserve, and to this day is home to many red and roe deer.

The best-preserved part of the park encompasses an area of dramatic dunes interspersed with heath and woodland and interrupted in the south and east by moraines up to 100 meters high. It's also a popular area for bird-watching, as well as hiking and biking (use of bikes is free to visitors).

The highlight of this beautiful park for many — and the reason many people choose to come here — is the outstanding Kröller-Müller Museum (Rijksmuseum Kröller-Müller), housing the world's second-largest collection of works by Van Gogh. In addition, the collections include Impressionist and Expressionist paintings by Cézanne, Manet, Monet, and Renoir. Outdoors, one of Europe's largest sculpture gardens shows works by Rodin, Hepworth, Dubuffet, and others.

Address: Houtkampweg 6, Otterlo, Netherlands

• Read More: Exploring De Hoge Veluwe National Park: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights : Pedestrian-friendly old city center, cathedral tower with views, and museums

A popular tourist destination for its many fine historic buildings, the Dutch city of Utrecht should definitely be included on your Netherlands travel itinerary.

Start your exploration of this pedestrian-friendly city in Cathedral Square. The Domplein, as it's known locally, is the site of St. Martin's Cathedral, or Dom Church (Domkerk). Although founded in 1254, much of what you see dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.

You'll also want to visit the Domtoren , a surviving stand-alone church tower built in the 1300s that rises high above the surrounding buildings. Be sure to make the climb up to the viewing platforms for its superb views over Utrecht. Although there are 465 steps to climb, the guided tour that comes with the climb is an excellent introduction to the city's rich history.

Address: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht, Netherlands

Highlights : Beautiful lake region with historic waterways, quaint villages, and cultural attractions

Among the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands are the small hamlets along the Ijsselmeer (Lake Ijssel), the freshwater lake that resulted from the closing of the sea entrance to the Zuider Zee. These towns flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age, when they had access to the Atlantic and prospered as fishing and trade centers, but lost importance as the harbors silted up.

Today, they're among the most photographed tourist attractions in the country. Time seems to have stood still for the fishing village of Marken and the seaports of Volendam and Enkhuizen , where many of the colorful houses have become museums and shops.

Enkhuizen has preserved many of its buildings and seafaring industries in the open-air Zuiderzee Museum , where the cultural heritage and maritime history of the old Zuiderzee region is preserved. Here, you can see craftsmen at work learning old maritime skills. In Volendam's harbor, you can see a collection of colorful old wooden boats.

Address: Wierdijk 12 - 22, Enkhuizen, Netherlands

Highlights : Modern dike system with dams, canals, and visitor center

Incorporating the deltas of the Rhine, the Maas, and the Schelde Rivers, Zeeland includes the numerous islands and peninsulas of the southwestern section of the Netherlands. Much of this area of recently formed land is below sea level and therefore reliant upon impressive dikes, as well as modern flood prevention techniques.

As you travel the area, you'll see evidence of the mega-engineering project known as the Delta Works . These massive structures — basically hi-tech dams — can control how much water enters the area's key estuaries from the North Sea.

Consisting of dams, sluices, locks, dikes, and storm-surge barriers, this awe-inspiring US$7 billion project has been declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Highlights : Medieval village with preserved buildings, castle ruins, and large spa complex

For those looking for a little ancient history, the Netherlands is not without its own medieval (and earlier) attractions. Romantic little Valkenburg, in the picturesque Geul Valley, boasts the country's only hilltop castle,. Long a popular holiday resort, the town's other big draws are its many caves and the spa facilities at Thermae 2000 , one of the largest such establishments in the Netherlands.

In addition to the ruins of the 12th-century castle on Dwingelrots (Castle Rock), there's also the interesting 14th-century St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica . Another highlight is the town's famous Christmas Market (mid-November to December 23rd) held in the Velvet Caves, the maze of old passageways leading to and from the castle.

Highlight : Home of the famous Royal Delft pottery with factory tours and shopping

Located between the cities of The Hague and Rotterdam (and therefore easy to get to), Delft is known the world over for its famous blue and white porcelain products. Delftware, as it's usually known, has adorned shelves and dining rooms the world over since the 1600s, and remains as popular today as it was back then.

Known in English as Royal Delft , the original manufacturer, Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles N.V., has been around since 1653 and offers a variety of fun experiences for visitors.

In addition to informative tours of the factory, including a chance to see talented artisans hand painting pottery, you can visit the factory's vast collection of Delftware, and even finish up with a posh afternoon tea experience in the on-site tea room.

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands

Highlights : Fairytale castle with huge grounds, hiking trails, and guided tours

Near the lovely old city of Utrecht, the fourth largest in the Netherlands, De Haar Castle (Kasteel De Haar) is the largest fortification in the country.

This spectacular castle, built by the famous Dutch architect PJH Cuypers, required so much land (it sits on a spectacular 250-acre park) that the entire village of Haarzuilens had to be relocated to accommodate it. While the original castle site was established in the 14th century, this newer structure dates from 1892 and is well worth taking the time to explore.

Inside, you'll be rewarded with impressive collections of antiques, furniture, paintings, and tapestries, but it's the gardens that really draw the crowds — along with the castle's fairy-tale looks.

Highlights : Living history museum with costumed interpreters, cultural events, and interactive workshops

The city of Arnhem is well worth including on your Netherlands travel itinerary. Famous for its location on a branch of the Rhine River and the battles that ensued here during WWII, it's here you'll find the Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum).

This family-friendly attraction has provided visitors with a fascinating look at traditional Dutch lifestyles for well over 100 years, with costumed guides offering unique insights into cultural, farming, and manufacturing aspects of life up to the mechanization of the 1900s.

Authentic period homes, workshops, and businesses offer hands-on opportunities to learn about and appreciate once-common practices, from fishing to baking and even clog making. Other highlights include a still-operating vintage tram, cultural events and concerts, and fun kids' programs.

Address: Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands

As one of the most visited countries in Europe, the Netherlands can get pretty busy during the peak summer months, especially in July when the schools break up.

The spring shoulder months of April and May are a great time to visit Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands, with many of the country's best parks and gardens bursting into life with an abundance of greenery and flowers (tulips are everywhere in the Netherlands!).

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The 11 best authentic Dutch villages that you have to visit

It's worth looking beyond the Randstad 😍

Looking for an authentic Dutch village to visit for a day trip outside of Amsterdam? There are plenty of beautiful little spots worth exploring!

Dutch cities are beautiful, we all know that. But what about the villages? They deserve some love too. Besides, cities can be busy and overcrowded.

So, instead of pushing your way through the bustling streets of Amsterdam yet again, why not take a trip to some of the quiet, tranquil, and quaint places in the Netherlands? 🚌

READ MORE | 7 underrated places to live outside of the Randstad

As someone who has been exploring the Netherlands for years, here’s my guide to 11 authentic Dutch villages you simply have to visit.

1. Beesel: the Dutch village of the dragon

2. de rijp: home of the herring, 3. naarden: dutch fort or village, 4. kinderdijk: we’re big fans, 5. loosdrecht: let loose and take a vay-cay, 6. vinkeveen: for the water nymphs, 7. lisse: terrific tulips, 8. broek in waterland: insta-worthy and hyper-dutch, 9. bronkhorst: a city kind of, 10. thorn: from swamp to pomp, 11. bourtange: the star of the show (literally).

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement .

Beesel is a village in Limburg, a province in the south of the Netherlands. It was founded in 1275, so it’s been around for quite a while.

Beesel started as a ship bench and remained so for over 500 years, belonging to Spanish Opper-Gelre until 1713.

The village has plenty of lovely Neolithic architecture as well. Like all good villages, it has a wonderful, cosy atmosphere.

It also has a metre-high dragon adorning its roundabout, which refers to the village’s yearly tradition of staging a spectacle based on the legend of George and the Dragon. 🐉

📍 Location: Beesel, Limburg

De Rijp is in the Alkmaar municipality in North Holland. If you’re excited about the Netherlands’ favourite food ( herring ), then this is the place to visit!

Historically, De Rijp was surrounded by lakes , so herring fishing was an abundant source of revenue for the area. 🐟

As the potential birthplace of Holland, De Rijp also has some of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands.

READ MORE | What’s the difference between Holland and the Netherlands?

It also has some rather hilarious stained glass windows in its church , which contain imagery, not of God, but the next best thing: herring!

📍 Location: De Rijp, Alkmaar

Naarden is a village that really needs to be appreciated by air . We mean, just look at that awesome town layout! 😍

The unusual outline of this village is the result of it being a star fort. Its distinctive shape was also important in more modern times.

During World War II , allied bombers would cheer when they passed overhead, knowing they were on their way back to safe territory.

READ MORE | 21 beautiful towns in the Netherlands that are not Amsterdam

Apart from that, Naarden is also home to the fascinating Dutch Fortress Museum .

📍 Location: Naarden, Gooi, North Holland

This village is a UNESCO World Heritage site , so you know it’s going to be good. Kinderdijk is home to the largest collection of old windmills in the Netherlands — 19 in total!

If you’ve been craving some of those mandatory Dutch windmill pictures for your Instagram, this village is simply something you cannot miss.

READ MORE | Best windmill site in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans?

You can buy tickets for a tour of two windmills that have been turned into museums if you fancy getting deep into the history of this beautiful place, or you can just admire these awesome structures from afar.

📍 Location: Kinderdijk, South Holland

This Dutch village is perfect for visiting in the summer months, as it’s most famous for the lakes that surround it — the Loosdrechtse Plassen.

Loosdrecht is actually really two separate villages, Old Loosdrecht and New Loosdrecht.

Old Loosdrecht is mainly made up of beautiful lakeside villas — the area is a favourite haunt of the wealthy.

New Loosdrecht, on the other hand, is quite densely populated and a bit less exclusive.

As a tourist, both sides of the village are worth exploring. You can enjoy the lakes by boat or from the shore while you’re there. 🚣🏼‍♀️

📍 Location: Loosdrecht, Wijdemeren, North Holland

If you’re visiting Utrecht , you might as well pop by Vinkeveen , which is another fabulous village that’s as beautiful from above as it is from its pretty streets.

Vinkeveen is famous for its lakes, which you can see in the picture above.

They’re used for swimming , diving, and yachting on approximately three days of the year when the Dutch weather is good. 😂

📍 Location: Vinkeveen, Utrecht

You can pretend all you want, we all know you moved to the Netherlands for the tulips .

Lisse is near Keukenhof , the *cough* somewhat expensive *cough* park where you can see more tulips than you’ll ever need. 🌷

When visiting Lisse, not only can you see the beauty of seemingly endless fields of flowers, but also a very authentic Dutch village!

And you can feel all smug about avoiding a tourist trap , as well.

📍 Location: Lisse, South Holland

In our opinion, Broek in Waterland is probably the most spectacular of Dutch villages.

Plus, it’s super close to Amsterdam and has just about the most Dutch name for a village we’ve ever heard!

Its proximity to the capital does mean it gets a bit overrun with tourists , who all understandably want to experience rural Dutchness without travelling too far outside the capital. 🌳

Broek in Waterland has actually been a tourist hot spot for generations, acting as a vacation town in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Thanks to its monument status, the village is very well preserved.

If you’re looking for something that’ll please your wanderlust and Instagram feed, some of the houses are pastel-coloured or white, making the whole village very aesthetically pleasing. 📸

📍 Location: Broek in Waterland, Waterland, North Holland

Now, Bronkhorst is quite a trek from Amsterdam, but luckily, the public transport system in the Netherlands is really good. And besides, this town (or city) is well worth it.

Although Bronkhorst has only 157 inhabitants, it was granted city rights in 1482.

That means it technically has a (somewhat limited) form of self-governance. 🙌🏼

It is an absolutely gorgeous village to walk around: quiet streets, authentic Dutch architecture , and plenty of greenery .

There are also some really nice bike routes in the surroundings of the village. 🚲

📍 Location: Bronkhorst, Bronkhorst, Gelderland

Thorn is in Limburg and has a really cool combination of great architecture and fascinating history.

It’s known as the white village for obvious reasons: all of its typical Dutch brick houses have been whitewashed, which gives it a lovely, clean, summery vibe.

Thorn began as a swamp near the Roman road between Maastricht and Nijmegen . In the 10th century, it was drained, and a monastery was established.

In the 13th century, this monastery became a convent. The nuns made wine which is still made and served in the village , though the convent itself closed in the 18th century. 🍷

📍 Location: Thorn, Limburg

Bourtange is a unique village located in the province of Groningen, all the way up north. It was built between 1580 and 1593, during the Eighty Years’ War .

What is now a popular tourist attraction, used to be a part of the glorious fortification on the border between the northern Dutch provinces and Germany.

Over time, people started leaving Bourtange, until the village was completely emptied around 1960.  

READ MORE | A day trip to Bourtange: the tiny village steeped in Dutch history

After some restorations, the fortress now exists as a quaint little village and outdoor museum. Visitors can see the historic Market Square, a candle maker, and various charming shops and restaurants.

📍 Location: Bourtange, Westerwolde

Will you be visiting one of these gorgeous Dutch villages soon? Or have you already been to any? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!  

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Apple picking in the netherlands: celebrate the dutch autumn, the americans have learned of dutch ‘droppings’ and now they’re confused, the netherlands explained in under 12 minutes (video inside), what do you think.

Don’t forget to visit the oldest town in the Netherlands: Nijmegen. Walk the town with gildenijmegen.nl for only €4 per person.

The author comments on the 3 days of summer that the Netherlands has….we have been here for the last two summers, both of which have been glorious! Last summer started as early as April and seemed to end mid September. If you’re comparing summer’s to ‘hot’ countries (of which I have lived), then the temperatures may not be what you class as summer, but the temperatures for the last two years have been between 25-35 degrees, which I think is more enjoyable than 30-40 degree heat. Yes, it does rain a fair bit here too, but having lived in a far wetter country it’s not too bad.

In my opinion the prettiest villages in The Netherlands are Heusden in Brabant (1,5h from Amsterdam) and Edam in North Holland (40min from Amsterdam). And of course Giethoorn in Drenthe but that is overrun by tourists.

Heusden is a wonderful village. Please read my article on Heusden on DutchReview https://dutchreview.com/cities/daytrips/visit-vestingstad-heusden-an-almost-forgotten-fortified-gem/

I’m a flight attendant based out of LAX, we had the Amsterdam route for about 2 years and for my base it was my favorite trip. I loved Amsterdam and I did visit a few of the outlying towns. These I have not and they all sound beautiful and I can’t wait to go back once our travel allows. The pandemic has restricted out travel for now. Great article

Giethoorn, aka Venice in the Netherlands

De Rijp s known more for whaling than herring. Here is a link to the article I wrote on the village of De Rijp: https://dutchreview.com/culture/history/the-dutch-village-of-de-rijp-the-birthplace-of-holland/

What about Grave . It’s a very old little city that still has some of the walls from the castle. It was also very important at the end of WW2. Watch the bridge to far.

The islands on the top of The Netherlands are sooooo beautiful! I especially recommend Texel, where I grew up! There is so much beauty there!

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Dutch Coast

From the Wadden Islands in the north to the beaches of Zeeland in the south, the Netherlands has no less than 250 kilometres of gorgeous sandy beaches with gorgeous dunes. So whether you’re looking for a relaxed, trendy, nude, sporty or family beach, you’ll find it here!

Looking for the best beaches in the Netherlands?

At over 450 kilometres long, the Dutch coastline is dotted with fantastic beaches. From serenely quiet to vibrantly buzzing. So whether you visit the beach for a leisurely walk through the dunes, want to relax at one of the attractive beach bars or dive into the water for a day of activity, the Dutch coast has something for everyone.

Scheveningen is one of the most popular seaside resorts. With its long beach, iconic pier, charming promenade and beautiful lighthouse, it's a great place to visit all year-round.

Noordwijk also offers impressive beach views, with no less than 13 kilometres of sporting opportunities. Or how about Egmond aan Zee ? It’s a popular family destination and a must for anyone who enjoys a slightly quieter day at the beach.

Zandvoort is one of the Netherlands' better-known seaside resorts. And not for nothing. It has vast sandy beaches, is dog-friendly and just 24 km from Amsterdam . Looking for a quiet beach? Consider the Wadden Islands . Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these pristine islands offer wide sandy beaches, unique dune landscapes and plenty of quiet family beaches.

Enjoy a coastal holiday in the Netherlands

The most beautiful seaside resorts in the Netherlands for a seaside holiday

The attractive seaside resorts of the Netherlands are popular with tourists and locals alike - whether it’s for a beach holiday or a day trip. Dutch seaside resorts are not just for the summer. They’re great places to go to get a breath of fresh air on the beach, enjoy a drink in a beach bar or café, or stroll along the promenade or dunes.

Bring your pet on a Dutch holiday

The Netherlands is the ideal destination for a fun holiday with your faithful, four-legged friend.

What are the best things to see and do on the Dutch coast?

If you like sportive activities , there is plenty to do along the coast of the Netherlands. There are wonderful hiking and cycling routes through stunning dune regions. On the beach, you can play with the wind with a kite or power kite. Want things to be even more exciting? Race on the wind along the beach in a blowkart or kite buggy. There is also plenty to see and do in the sea. Popular activities include stand up paddle boarding, surfing, and kite surfing.

Seaside holidays

A seaside holiday is definitely one of the best ways to discover the Netherlands. Enjoying long walks on the beach with the wind in your hair and your feet in the sand, followed by a cup of coffee or a glass of rosé at one of the lively beach pavilions. What could be better? Pack your bucket and spade, sunglasses and beach towels and head to the Dutch coast !

Tip: The Dutch coast is also a great place to visit in autumn and winter. And with a bit of luck, you’ll have the beach all to yourself.

#DutchCoast

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More on the coast

Zeeland, perfect combination of beautiful beaches, historic villages and delicious local cuisine

Zeeland boasts beautiful beaches and great seaside towns like Domburg and Renesse. Book a holiday home by the sea, go cycling or hiking on the Wadden, and discover the best restaurants.

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Water sports enthusiasts will love the Netherlands and our many lakes, waterways and beaches.

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A perfect seaside holiday

Lazy beach days and hikes through dunes, vast beaches and great surf: the Dutch coast has it all.

Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

15 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

The Netherlands may be small but it’s big on amazing destinations.  If you can picture tulip fields, historic windmills, cellar bars, beautiful countryside, wildlife, and world-famous art collections then you’re just scratching the surface of this incredible country.

And there is so much more than just Amsterdam to discover. Roughly the size of the state of Maryland in the United States, The Netherlands lies mostly at or below sea level. Now completely urbanized and densely populated it’s a unique and distinct country. With wide blue skies, unchanged villages, beautiful church spires, and lovely canals, The Netherlands is, indeed, a remarkable country.

Lets explore the best things to do in the Netherlands :

1. Rotterdam

Once little more than a fishing village dating from the 13th century, Rotterdam is now a thoroughly modern city. Largely destroyed during WWII, architecture has become a thriving form of expression since reconstruction began. Check out the Erasmus Bridge, the Cube Houses, and Kunsthal Museum for some interesting examples. And for something truly unique, visit Market Hall with its 11,00o square meter ceiling-mural that covers the farmer’s stalls.

In the summer enjoy the International Film Festival and the North Sea Jazz Festival. And if you’re in the mood for history, Delfshaven district, which lies near the harbour, is the place that the pilgrims launched from in 1620. The Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen includes Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Dali, and more, in its permanent collection.

2. The Hague

Perhaps the most astounding place to visit in The Netherlands, The Hague is a place of huge sophistication and world-class art.  Nicknamed the Royal City by the Sea thanks to the royals who live there, The Hague is best known for the exhibits at the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis and the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag.

Summer visitors fall in love with Scheveningen’s beaches. Parliament, or Binnenhof, is located in The Hague, though Amsterdam is the capital. Be sure to visit the 360 view at Panorama Mesdag, and the miniature city of Madurodam.

Just 20km from The Hague is the perfect place for a canal ride on the Old Rhine.  Leiden , Rembrandt’s birthplace, has been a university town since the 16th century and a mecca for culture lovers.  The many museums in town are all within walking distance of each other and make for a fabulous few days of exploring.

Though the university is the country’s oldest and most prestigious, the modern batch of students helps to invigorate a lively night life. You’ll enjoy exploring Gravensteen, the Old Latin School, and the huge steepled church of Pieterskerk.

Right in the heart of the tulip region is charming Haarlem , a testament to the Dutch Golden Age.  Because it’s largely unchanged, it’s easy to imagine the city as it was in the 17th century as you stroll down cobbled streets.  Known as Bloemenstad, or flower city, Haarlem sits alongside the Spaarne River and still has many of its medieval buildings.

Tourists come for the museums, shopping, and architecture; much of which can be found in Grote Markt Centre. Teylers Museum has exhibits in art, science and natural history and is the oldest museum in Holland. Art lovers will want to visit Franz Hals Museums to see the Dutch masters and everyone will love the Annual Bloemencorso Parade.

5. Kinderdijk

If the Netherlands had an icon, it would be the windmills.  And if windmills had a not-to-be-missed spot, it would be Kinderdijk. Because the country is at or below sea-level, windmills have been a crucial part of water management put in place to prevent flooding.

Just a short excursion outside of Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, which means “children’s dike,” is where you’ll find 19 fully functioning and phenomenal windmills.  Built in the 18th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are truly something to see.  During the winter you can lace up some skates and enjoy the fun on the frozen canals.

6. Amsterdam

It’s unlikely that you need information about Amsterdam’s reputation as a party town, but this large city is deeper than the infamous red light district and liberal cannabis laws. There are 60 miles of canals to explore and over 1500 monumental buildings and bridges.

Fantastic museums and endless small eccentricities make Amsterdam a delightful city to discover.  You’ll want to include the Rijksmuseum Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Prinsengracht district for shopping, pub crawling, and coffee drinking. The Canal Ring has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s wonderful to walk or bike around.

Considered to be the religious heart of Holland, Utrecht is an ancient town.  Established by the Romans in 48AD, the history of the Middle Age is on full display.  The inner canal wharf system, originally designed to keep the Rhine from flooding the city, is a brilliant piece of architecture left over from this period.

The most famous landmarks are the 8th century Gothic Dom Tower and the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Martin (13th century). There’s also the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rietveld Schroder House, the Dick Bruna House, and the Miffy Museum. When you want some time out-of-doors, stroll along the Oudegracht Canal and stop in to one of the converted cellar cafes for a coffee long the way.

8. Maastricht

This is a city with a diverse cultural history, which makes it seem a bit of an outsider in this Dutch country.  You’ll see Roman and Spanish ruins as well as French architecture throughout town.  There are even hills here! Sitting on both sides of the Meuse River, Maastricht is beautiful and full of historic churches and squares.

Popular attractions include het Vrijthof square, the Caves of St Pieter and the Casement, Saint Servatius Church, and Vestigingswerkens.  If you feel like splurging, check out any of the five Michelin-starred restaurants or some of the incredible cafes or bars in the town square.

9. De Hoge Veluwe National Park

Take a spin on one of 1700 free bicycles that the park staff keep on hand and spend a day exploring  all of the 41km of paths in De Hoge Veluwe National Park.  This national treasure is made up of 5,400 hectares of woods, heath, sand dunes, and peat bogs.

This is a great spot for bird watching with Res List species like the Wryneck, the Moor Frog, and the Wheatear that call it home.  There’s also unique plant species, red deer, and wild boar.  Deep in the heart of De Hoge Veluwve is the Kröller-Müller Museum, with a surprising number of Van Goghs.  Nearby are Elburg and Arnhem with medieval buildings and the historical site of the Battle for Arnhem.

10. Nijmegen

Close to the German border, Nijmegen recently celebrated its 2000th anniversary. As one of the oldest towns in the Netherlands it is home to two history museums that highlight Roman artefacts and traditional life. The large student population from the country’s only Catholic university brings energy to the place.

Take a walk along the Waalbrug (the bridge that crosses the Waal River) in order to catch an awe-inspiring sunset, complete with boats below. In the centre of Nijmegen is the historical quarter and not far from that you’ll find the National Fietsmuseum Velorama that showcases over 250 bikes.  A real peek into the Dutch obsession with two-wheelers.

Just like Amsterdam, Delft is built on a series of canals that were originally designed to defend the city. An entire weekend can easily be spent strolling through the historic quarter and exploring the markets.  Johannes Vermeer, who painted The Girl with the Pearl Earring, among many others, called Delft home.  You’ll find it to be a progressive town that has worked hard to restore its historical feel.

Popular sites include Renaissance styled City Hall, the Prinsenhof Museum (where William of Orange was assassinated), the Vermeer Centrum, and several lovely churches including Nieuwe Kerk and Oud. If you need to pick up gifts to take home, consider the blue, hand-painted earthenware that been fired here since the 17th century.

12. The Wadden Islands

Off the north coast are five islands collectively known as the Wadden Islands. They’re part of a larger chain of 50 that are dotted along the Wadden Sea between Denmark and the Netherlands. Each is unique and a great place for outdoor adventurers.

Bird watchers will want to head straight to Terschelling, beach lovers will want to make Texel their first stop, and for those that want a remote trek through the woods, Vlieland is perfect. A boat will take you to any of the five, but for those that love a challenge you can also try wadlopen (mud-walking) across the seabed during low tide. Only for the truly brave – as some have called it “horizontal alpinism!”

Because it’s easily accessible by rail and car, Gouda is an extremely popular day trip from Amsterdam.  Famous for its cheese (yes, THAT Gouda) and stroopwafels (syrup waffles) this is a traditional Dutch town that’s full of charm.

Visit St Janskerk with its colourful and incredible stained glass windows, a town hall that dates to the 15th century, and the Waag, an old cheese weighing house built in the 17th century and which is now home to the Kaaswaag, Holland’s cheese museum.

14. Groningen

With two colleges, this culturally diverse town is a major destination for those interested in arts, education, and business. The Groningen Museum is one of the most popular in all of the Netherlands but you’ll also find a comics museum, graphic museum, university museum, and a maritime museum.

Live entertainment at the cafes, as well as fantastic theatre, round out the cultural aspects of this small but vibrant city. For those interested in Groningen’s nightlife, check out the Vismarkt, The Grote Markt, and the Peperstraat.

15. Friesland

This is your typical Dutch province, but with a few twists.  Not only do they have their own language here, but the locals are a hardy, self-reliant group – even by Dutch standards. The north end of Friesland morphs into the Waddenzee and the land goes from solid to muddy so the people had to actually build and fortify the land here.

It’s incredible to explore and UNESCO designated.  Visitors love Leeuwarden and Hindeloopen two charming villages that cater to tourists and have lots of tradition to soak up.  Right across the water you’ll find the Wadden Islands.

15 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands:

• De Hoge Veluwe National Park
• The Wadden Islands

Where to go in the Netherlands? The most beautiful cities to visit on a holiday

Every city in the Netherlands has a unique experience to offer. From the picturesque canals of Utrecht to the modern buildings of Rotterdam, the delicate pottery of Delft and the cosmopolitan elegance of Maastricht, Dutch cities are sure to delight visitors.

The Netherlands, often associated with windmills, tulips and the canals of Amsterdam , is also renowned for its uniquely charming cities. From vibrant metropolises to picturesque villages, this country offers a diversity of urban landscapes. Here’s an overview of the Netherlands’ most beautiful cities, a must for your next trip.

Want to discover the Netherlands? Here are some articles to help you plan your trip :

• Amsterdam: 5 museums to visit in the Dutch capital
• This quaint village in the Netherlands is a flower paradise in the spring
• A (long) weekend in Amsterdam: our top tips for a successful getaway in the Dutch capital

The most beautiful cities in the Netherlands to discover as soon as you can

Amsterdam, the venice of the north.

A must-see, iconic city, Amsterdam is often the first stop on a trip to the Netherlands. Known for its picturesque canals, narrow gabled houses and world-famous museums, the city is a magnet around every corner. The Van Gogh Museum , the Rijks Museum and the Anne Frank House are cultural centrepieces, while the Jordaan district and the Vondelpark offer places to relax and explore on a local scale. Amsterdam is also a dynamic city where modernity thrives in harmony with the city’s historical heritage, as well as a flourishing artistic and culinary scene.

Utrecht, the medieval heart of the Netherlands

Located in the centre of the country, Utrecht is often described as a quieter, less touristy version of Amsterdam. There is a remarkable building in the historic center, the Dom Tower , which is the tallest building in the Netherlands, offering a breathtaking view of the city. Utrecht’s canals are one-of-a-kind, lined with terraces where you can relax at water level. Utrecht is also a lively university town, with a vibrant nightlife and more cosy cafés and restaurants than you can count. History buffs will love a visit to the Catharijneconvent Museum and the Centraal Museum .

Delft, the city of blue and white pottery

Delft, a city made world-famous by its blue earthenware, is a town utterly bursting with charm. This picturesque town offers a journey back in time, with its canals lined with historic houses, majestic churches and small craft shops. The New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) , where William of Orange is buried, and the Old Church (Oude Kerk) , with its sloping tombs, are places you need to see. Delft was also the birthplace of Vermeer, and the Vermeer Centrum is a fascinating place to discover the life and work of this master painter.

Maastricht, a cultural melting pot in the heart of Europe

Located in the south of the country, on the border with Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is a cosmopolitan city with a rich history. Known for its role in the signing of the Treaty of Maastricht, which led to the creation of the European Union, the city stands out for its architecture influenced by French, Belgian and Dutch cultures. The Basilica of Saint Servatius , one of the oldest in the Netherlands, and the Vrijthof , a lively square surrounded by cafés and restaurants, are key points of interest. Maastricht is also famous for its wine cellars and refined culinary scene, with many Michelin-starred restaurants.

Haarlem, little Amsterdam

Just a few kilometres west of Amsterdam, Haarlem was given the moniker of “little Amsterdam.” Once an important cultural and economic centre, this charming town boasts a well-preserved historic centre with many medieval buildings. The Grote Markt , the main square, is dominated by the majestic Grote Kerk , the church where the legendary organist Haendel played. The Frans Hals Museum is another important destination, housing an impressive collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age. Haarlem is also renowned for its many inner courtyards known as hofjes , offering a haven of peace in the heart of the city.

Leiden, a historic university town

Leiden, in the west of the country, is one of the oldest university towns in the Netherlands. This historic city is famous for being the birthplace of Rembrandt and for its university, the oldest in the country, which has attracted brilliant minds from all over the world. Leiden is criss-crossed by picturesque canals and packed with fascinating museums, including the National Museum of Antiquities and the Museum of Natural History . The Burcht van Leiden , an ancient hilltop fortress, offers panoramic views over the city. With its paved streets and charming gabled houses, Leiden is a city steeped in history and culture.

Groningen, a youthful, vibrant atmosphere

Groningen, in the north of the Netherlands, is a dynamic, young city, known for its university and student population. It’s a city where history meets modernity, with historic buildings right against bold contemporary structures, such as the Groninger Museum . The Martini K erk , a 13 th -century church, and the Martini Tower , which offers a breathtaking view of the city, are also worth a visit. Groningen is also a great city to go cycling, with trails running through lush green parks and natural areas.

Rotterdam, bold and daring

Rotterdam stands out from other Dutch cities with its ultra-modern architecture and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Completely rebuilt after the devastation brought by the Second World War, Rotterdam is now an avant-garde city with skyscrapers, iconic bridges such as the Erasmusbrug , and modern districts such as the Kop van Zuid . The Markthal , a spectacular covered market, is a perfect example of Rotterdam’s twin loves of architecture and gastronomy. Lovers of contemporary art will also appreciate the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal ’s collections.

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