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The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren’t Amsterdam)

We all love 'Dam, but there are plenty of other Dutch cities to explore. From Rotterdam to Utrecht, these are some of the best

When I tell people that I’m from the Netherlands , the first thing they mention is Amsterdam . I get it, Amsterdam is a wonderful city to visit, with plenty to keep you entertained all day and night. However, it’s also becoming far too crowded and disorderly. It seems like a week doesn’t go by without news coming out about overtourism in the Dutch capital , and Amsterdam is now actively trying to deter tourists .

So why not turn our attention elsewhere? From Ameland to Rotterdam, this country has plenty of other incredible cities to explore. In any case, next time you hear that someone is from the Netherlands, you’ll at least have something else to talk about.

Fleurine Tideman is a freelance writer who splits her time between Rotterdam and London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines and check out our latest travel guides written by local experts.

RECOMMENDED: 🛤 The best day trips from Amsterdam 🇪🇺 The most underrated destinations in Europe 🌆 The best European city breaks to try this year

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The best Dutch cities to visit

1. Rotterdam

Let me immediately state my bias: I’m a proud resident of Rotterdam . Aside from its thriving art scene, Rotterdam is a foodie’s dream destination, with buzzy food markets like the Markthal and Fenix Food Factory. As a large part of the city was destroyed in WW2, Rotterdam is also home to unique architecture. Many local architects were given free rein when it came to rebuilding the city, which has made Rotterdam the vibrant and unique city it is today, with an aesthetic that seamlessly blends new and old.

2. Haarlem

If you’re looking to stay close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is your best choice. This quaint city is a 16-minute train ride from the capital, and far cheaper to stay in – many Amsterdam residents end up moving here to commute to the capital, although Haarlem itself has plenty to offer. You can easily spend an afternoon in the Frans Hals Museum learning more about this legendary Dutch painter. Outside of the city, you’ll find endless tulip fields to serve as a backdrop for your holiday photos – just be sure to ask the farmers for permission first!

3. 's-Hertogenbosch

Don’t worry, nobody’s expecting you to be able to pronounce that! Even the Dutch find it too tiresome to say, so we usually shorten it to Den Bosch. The perfect city break for those looking to soak up some history and culture, Den Bosch is known for its great museums, including the North Brabant Museum and Design Museum Den Bosch, as well as its medieval architecture and fortified city walls. People from across the region flock here for the markets on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Be sure to sample a traditional Bossche bol, which is essentially a huge profiterole covered in chocolate – lekker !

4. Maastricht

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the south of the Netherlands. Maastricht, with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets, feels like it was plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale. Bordering Belgium, the city offers a unique blend of Dutch and Belgian culture and architecture. My perfect afternoon? Visit Boekhandel Dominicanen to shop for books in a converted medieval church, then head to Bosch Brewery for a tour and classic beer tasting.

5. Arnhem

Visiting Arnhem will allow you to combine your city break with a touch of nature, as the city is surrounded by countryside and situated beside the Veluwe, one of the Netherlands’ largest national parks. Look out for w ildlife like deer, foxes and Scottish Highland cattle, which were brought here to maintain the heathland. The city itself is known for its vibrant art scene: Arnhem’s Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit, as is the Netherlands Open Air Museum, which showcases traditional Dutch farmhouses and windmills. Get to know the city by wandering its shopping streets or joining a guided street art tour.

6. Utrecht

Instead of visiting Amsterdam, why not head to ‘Little Amsterdam’ instead? With its rows of cute Dutch houses and terraces perched along the canals, Utrecht feels like a shrunk-down version of Amsterdam without the crowds of tourists. The best way to explore Utrecht is through a canal boat tour. During my student years there, I loved taking visitors along the canals and introducing them to traditional Dutch pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnauwen. Visit Olivier for a pint with a twist – this Belgian beer pub sits within an old church (we do love a church conversion in the Netherlands)!

7. Ameland

Technically a municipality, Ameland is my favourite of the Dutch Wadden Islands. This tiny stretch of paradise, home to four villages and two nature reserves, feels like it was plucked from the past. Visiting Ameland always makes me feel like I’m the main character in a movie, pensively strolling along sand dunes, marshes and forests. The best part? It couldn’t feel further away from Amsterdam’s overcrowded streets.

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15 Best Cities In The Netherlands To Visit Besides Amsterdam

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While Amsterdam’s a great place to visit, there is much more to the Netherlands than its capital city. Here is a list of the best cities in the Netherlands to visit besides Amsterdam.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, I definitely have a soft spot for the country. I feel very proud to call myself Dutch, and ever since moving to the UK, I’ve started to appreciate my country even more. The Netherlands has a unique culture, stunning architecture, and some fantastic cities to visit.

So next time you’re visiting, why not add some of these great cities in the Netherlands to your itinerary?

Even though I’ve been to quite a few cities in my home country myself, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to add their favourite Dutch city into the mix.

Best Cities To Visit In The Netherlands

The Netherlands isn’t very big, but it’s packed with fantastic places to visit. And while Amsterdam is one of those “bucket-list” destinations for many, I think you should consider adding some other Dutch cities to your trip. So, let’s take a look at what my fellow travel bloggers and I recommend!

1. Eindhoven

I grew up in a small village near Eindhoven, so this city is close to my heart. It’s the design capital of the Netherlands and hosts the annual Dutch Design Week, where you can find exhibitions scattered across the city centre. Eindhoven is also home to the annual light festival, Glow, where the city is covered in light art.

But even when visiting outside of these events, there are still many awesome things to do in Eindhoven . The Van Abbe museum was the first public museums for contemporary art in Europe and offers a lovely morning of enjoying art. If you’re not that much into art, you can also opt for the DAF museum or the Phillips museum.

Another area in Eindhoven that you should not miss out on is Strijp-S. This neighbourhood was known as the “forbidden city”, as it was the industry park owned by Phillips – nobody except employees was allowed inside. Nowadays, it is the creative heart of Eindhoven. Filled with hip eateries, cool startup companies, and independent shops, it’s a real treat to explore.

2. Maastricht

Being the oldest city in the Netherlands, Maastricht has some of the country’s best picturesque streets and castle ruins. The city is known for its Burgundian lifestyle, and the local cuisine is top-notch. While going on a Maastricht day trip is a great idea, I highly recommend going for at least a weekend.

Maastricht is gorgeous. The cobblestoned streets and lovely buildings are a photography lovers’ dream. But while walking through the streets is a treat in itself, one place you should add to your itinerary is the Dominicanen Book Store. This old church is transformed into a bookstore and cafe – it’s stunning!

If you’re visiting in spring or summer, make sure to stop by the St. Jan Church on Vrijthof. You can climb the tower for one of the best views of the city here for €2,50.

You can find more hints that Maastricht is indeed the oldest city in the Netherlands in the City Park. It includes remains of the ancient city wall and the Helpoort, the oldest gate in the country (dating back to 1229).

3. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a bit like Amsterdam’s little sister. Being the second biggest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam makes for a perfect day trip from the capital. While a large part of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, Rotterdam was rebuilt into a hub for modern architecture.

Spending 24 hours in Rotterdam gives you more than enough time to see some of the main highlights. Start by checking out the observation tower: The Euromast. You can even sleep inside!

Also, make sure to stop by the Cube Houses. They were designed by Piet Blom and can only be found in Rotterdam and Helmond. Because of their unique design, they attract quite a bit of attention!

Since it’s also a large harbour city, it’s also a great idea to add the Old Harbour to your day trip to Rotterdam. Only a few old buildings survived the bombs, one of which is the White House. The Old Harbour is lined with cafes and bars, making it a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the view.

4. Den Bosch

Den Bosch is another lesser-known city in the Netherlands, but worth a visit! It has a little bit of everything: historic streets, a gorgeous cathedral, and a booming creative sector along the iconic Dutch canals.

There are a lot of things to do in Den Bosch . The Saint Jans Cathedral is one of the most beautiful of its kind in the Netherlands. You can enter for free, and it’s even possible to climb the 43-meter high tower for a view of Den Bosch. The city also has canals. They’re not as famous as those in Amsterdam, but they are still fun to explore by boat.

After a short walk from the historic city centre, you can find Work Warehouse. This quirky area is filled with cool murals and graffiti – it’s a fantastic spot for taking photos.

And don’t forget to try a Bossche Bol, the city’s famous pastry. It’s basically a huge creme puff, but better 😉

5. Arnhem

Submitted by Just Go Places Blog

Only about an hour away from Amsterdam by train, visiting Arnhem in the Netherlands is easy to do. You can even take a train directly to Arnhem from Schiphol International Airport. You will arrive at the swish new Arnhem train station, an architectural masterpiece that has won many design awards.

Arnhem was heavily bombed during World War 2 because of its strategic position near the German border with the Netherlands. Much of the medieval centre was destroyed during Operation Market Garden, where British paratroopers tried to take the town from the Nazis. Although ultimately unsuccessful, this invasion gave the Dutch hope that the Allied Forces would arrive eventually. There are two museums and a bridge in the town dedicated to Operation Market Garden.

Downtown Arnhem is a charming collection of streets that offers plenty of shopping. From the top of the Eusebius Church spire, there are views for miles. Underground in the historical area, the Dutch Museum of Wine is contained in a series of medieval cellars previously used to store wine.

There are also plenty of attractions near the city, especially for families. Arnhem is known for its Burger Zoo and its Open Air Museum dedicated to showing how the Dutch lived in the past. The Hoge Veluwe park on the outskirts of town is also the largest forested area in the Netherlands and perfect for cycling and hiking.

Submitted by Sam from Sam Sees World

Just a short distance from Amsterdam sits one of the best and most beautiful cities in the Netherlands: Muiden. It is a quaint yet charming city that offers the perfect Dutch getaway. You can get to Muiden from Amsterdam by bike, public transport, or car. The bike ride takes around 1 hour and brings you through the unique Dutch countryside. While taking a car or public transport take around the same amount of time.

Although there is a lot to do in Muiden, the highlight of the city is Muiderslot Castle . Muiderslot castle is a huge castle in Muiden, and a UNESCO world heritage site, just waiting to be explored. It will show you a more historical side of the Netherlands and is lovely to explore and discover. The entrance price is just over 15 euros, allowing you to explore freely for as long as you please.

Beyond the castle, you can walk around the charming town, go for a boat tour, eat along the canals, shop at local boutiques and more. It is the perfect place to experience local dutch life and enjoy some of the Netherlands’ most unique sides.

Muiden beautiful cities in the netherlands

7. Amersfoort

Submitted by Craving Adventure

When thinking of the best cities in The Netherlands, Amersfoort often gets overlooked. Still, this medium-sized city in the exact middle of the country actually is quite a hidden gem. In 2015 and 2016, it was proclaimed the best city in The Netherlands to live in.

On top of that, it is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country. You’ll instantly see this as you enter the city by the city walls, the big gates providing access into the city centre and the big moat around it. And then there is the 98-meter high medieval church tower rising from the middle of town.

Like many other old cities in the Netherlands, there is a network of canals crossing through Amersfoort. Alongside these canals, you’ll find picturesque little cobblestone streets and alleyways full of boutique shops.

Amersfoort is well known for being a great place to go shopping and for being a place of culture. For example, the city is the birthplace of famous painter Piet Mondriaan, and his birth house has been turned into a museum.

8. Nijmegen

Submitted by Ask The Dutch Guy

The historic city of Nijmegen is one of Holland’s hidden gems. It is most likely the oldest city in the Netherlands, as it used to be part of the Roman Empire for many years. Nijmegen is home to the Renaissance-style Burchtstraat city hall, Sint-Jacobskapel chapel, and the Tower of Belvédère, which were all built in the 15th-17th century.

People usually flock to Lange Hezelstraat, which is the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands. Tourists love the shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores.

This enchanting city boasts its beaches along the Waal river and the De Ooijpolder nature reserve, situated just outside the city to the east. Here, visitors can find idyllic villages, typical Dutch farms, vast meadows of lovely flowers, and hiking trails.

Nijmegen is also famous for its museums and restaurants. Museum Het Valkhof features modern art, old masters and Roman antiquities, while the National Liberation Museum displays World War II memorabilia, showcasing how the Netherlands was liberated.

Meanwhile, two of the best restaurants in the city are De Nieuwe Winkel at Gebroeders van Limburgplein and De Meesterproef with its big, open kitchen, terrace, and beautiful interior.

Getting to Nijmegen is easy. From Amsterdam or Utrecht, one can take the intercity in the direction of this ancient city. And when coming from Rotterdam, travellers can take the train to Utrecht and on to Nijmegen .

Submitted by Zarina from Miss Travel Clogs

Despite being the 7th largest city in the Netherlands, Tilburg is barely known among tourists. Heck, it’s even an underrated destination among Dutch people. And that’s very understandable as there was nothing sexy about this former textile town until recent years. But having lived there myself before moving to London, I’ve seen Tilburg transform from a vibrant student city to an all-round cultural city break destination filled with interesting architecture.

Following a dramatic gentrification process, revitalised Tilburg now offers several cool urban hotspots. My number one go-to neighbourhood is Spoorzone, or ‘Rail Zone’ in English. Located next to Tilburg Central Station, you won’t have to go far to find this must-visit area. After a massive revamp of abandoned railway buildings, Spoorzone now houses fabulous industrial-chic bars and restaurants. Drop by RAW for a beer in an impressive industrial venue, or visit De Wagon for a coffee/meal in a cute vintage 1930s train carriage!

Home to one of the top music venues in the Netherlands, the impressive programme of 013 (named after the city’s district code) includes anything from mainstream bands and (inter)national singer-songwriters to pure rock ‘n’ roll see-you-in-the-mosh-pit gigs.

Want to take things down a notch? Then I recommend catching an arthouse film at the independent cinema Cinecitta. Fancy visiting a museum? Then modern art museum De Pont is an excellent choice. Or go to the Textile Museum to see inspiring exhibitions on fashion and design.

Curious to see what else my fantastic former home town has to offer? Then explore it for yourself! Located at respectively only a 15-min and 21-min train ride away from Den Bosch and Eindhoven, Tilburg makes for an excellent base to explore the hospitable southern province of the Netherlands. Or even for a day trip to Antwerp , Belgium, which is only an hour away by car. Have fun!

Submitted by Guide Your Travel

Leiden is a mid-sized city located in the Netherlands, close to the coast and south of Amsterdam. The city is home to several large universities, so there are always lots of students around. You’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants around the city, and although the nightlife cannot be compared to that of Amsterdam, you’ll always find something to do.

Like many Dutch cities, Leiden is built on the water. There are beautiful canals which you can explore by boat. The historic architecture in Leiden is what makes it a must-visit for tourists. The buildings date back as far as the 17th century, and there are lots of different museums and art galleries.

Leiden is the perfect choice for travellers who tend to avoid larger cities but are looking for many cultural activities. The National Museum of Antiquities and the Volkenkunde Museum should be at the top of your list as well as the Japan museum.

For some impressive historic architecture, head to the Hooglandse Kerk, a beautiful gothic church. The Mare Kerk is another incredible church in Leiden that was restored to its former glory.

11. Utrecht

Submitted by Nichola from Family Hotel Expert .

Utrecht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and is often overlooked for its more famous neighbour Amsterdam. Don’t be fooled, though; there’s plenty to do in Utrecht to take you away from the capital and more than enough to make you want to pick it instead of Amsterdam.

It has a similar look and feel to the capital, with canals running through the centre and beautiful traditional buildings lining the waterfront. But it’s much quieter and calmer, without the huge crowds of tourists.

There’s so much to do here, from exploring the endearing Nijntje Museum, all centred around the Miffy character created here in Utrecht by Dick Bruna (perfect if you’re on a family holiday to Holland ) to the fantastic Speelklok Museum, set in a former church.

Climb to the top of the Dom Tower for spectacular views or explore the engines at the train museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum). Utrecht is a beautiful city for losing yourself in the backstreets and is best explored on foot (or bicycle), not least because cars are banned from the centre. The architecture is beautiful and has a timeless appeal to it.

Come for the day or the weekend, and you’ll wish you had longer to spend in this captivating city.

12. Haarlem

Submitted by Jennifer from FamilyTripGuides

Haarlem is a beautiful Dutch city located just 30km west of Amsterdam and 60km north of The Hague. This makes it a great weekend trip from Amsterdam . It is a great city to experience Dutch life outside of the tourist areas of Amsterdam. It is also famous for its surrounding tulip fields and as a significant trading centre for tulips.

There is lots to explore in and around the city. We start at the Grote Markt, the heart of the historic area, a huge outdoor market on Saturdays and smaller ones on other days of the week. It is a great town square with the Grote Kerk dating back to 1307. This town square has dozens of cafes, restaurants and shops and a great place for people watching.

Just one block away is the Corrie ten Boom House and Museum, where you can take a tour and view the actual hiding place where the ten Boom family sheltered Jews during World War II. It is a fascinating tour right on one of the main streets.

If you visit in Spring, renting a bicycle and exploring the Bollenstreek Flower Route from Haarlem to Leiden is not to be missed! You will see millions of tulips and other spring flowers in tidy rows along canals.

13. Groningen

Submitted by Lavina from Continent Hop .

Occupied by Anglo-Saxons for quite a few centuries, Groningen, the largest city in the North in the Netherlands, is full of history and culture.

Usually full of students as there’s a major university here, the city is lively, and there’s lots to do.

Located about 150 kilometres from Amsterdam, it takes about 2 hours to get here. Once you do, you’re greeted with windmills, stroopwafels, idyllic canals, a generous helping of cheese and the occasional farms you can visit on a budget, without the hustle and bustle of tourists!

Groningen is frequented mainly by locals, and few tourists make it here, making it perfect if you’re looking to experience more of the culture and history of the Netherlands.

The streets have colourful houses, and the river has numerous boats that one can see making their way through, irrespective of weather.

As with most of the Netherlands, the city has many cycling routes that are very pretty. The coastline can be windy at times but can make for a great day out, especially with kids and pets. Menkemaborg castle and the Arboretum Notoarestoen park are great for a visit. In addition to this, the city is good for shopping as well!

14. The Hague

Submitted by Dym Abroad .

One of the best cities in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam is The Hague. The Hague is one of the largest cities in the country and it is known for the seat of government that you can find here and the house of the King of the Netherlands.

Furthermore, this is the place where you find the International Court of Justice, which is one of the world’s most important courts. One of the best things to do in The Hague is visiting Binnenhof. This is a building complex where you can find the government of the Netherlands.

The building has beautiful architecture and is great to see! Another one of the best things to do in The Hague is seeing the Noordeinde Palace. This is the workplace of the king of the Netherlands.

Besides that, you should visit KM21 when you are in The Hague. This is one of the best modern art museums in the Netherlands . You find here a large variety of works, including sculptures, paintings, and more. Furthermore, Scheveningen is great to visit. This is a part of The Hague that you can find next to the North Sea. It is a great place for a day at the beach.

Furthermore, you find here the Scheveningen Pier, which is great to visit as well!

Submitted by Lara from The Best Travel Gifts

If you love the beauty of Amsterdam but hate the crowd, you are going to love Delft!

Delft is a city located only about an hour away from Amsterdam by train, making it a perfect day trip. Though there is plenty to do to keep yourself entertained for a day or two. It’s famous for Dutch Delft Blue pottery and being home to one of the top technical universities The TU Delft.

With Delft being famous for the typical Delft blue pottery, it should come as no surprise that exploring cute boutiques and Delft Blue factories are among the top things to do in Delft. For stunning architecture head over to the Oude Kerk (Old Church) with its leaning tower. Or check out The Market Square with the Delft City Hall, The Waag, and The Nieuwe Kerk (new church). Climb the church tower to get amazing views over the city. If you are looking for the classic Amsterdam canal photos without the tourist, check out Hippoltusbuurtstraat, Voldersgracht, and the Old Canal.

For people interested in history The Prinsenhof Museum is a great place to learn about Dutch History. It is the former residence of William of Orange, who is also known as the father of the fatherland and played a key role in Dutch history and the royal family.

Lastly, the science museum of the TU Delft is perfect for people who love to learn about (surprise) science.

Conclusion: The Best Cities In The Netherlands

And that concludes our selection of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands. If you’re planning a trip to this lovely little country, make sure to add some alongside Amsterdam. It’s very much worth your time, and it’ll give you a much better idea of what the Dutch culture really means.

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Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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10 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

No visit to Holland is complete without a visit to the capital city, Amsterdam; however, there are so many more thrilling sites to see in the Netherlands. From the classic windmills and magnificent fields of flowers to historic town centers laden with museums and sights, Holland has much to offer visitors. These places to visit in the Netherlands are not to be missed, and most are easily accessible.

10. Gouda [SEE MAP]

Gouda is a typical Dutch city with lots of old buildings and pretty canals, and is a popular destination for a day trip, thanks to its great rail- and highway connections. The city is famous for its cheese, its stroopwafels (syrup waffles), candles and its clay pipes.

Attractions in Gouda include the beautiful 15th century town hall and the amazing glass windows in St. Janskerk. The compact city center is entirely ringed by canals and is a mere five minutes’ walk from the station.

9. Rotterdam [SEE MAP]

Once a mere 13th century fishing village, Rotterdam is the Netherlands most modern city today. Very bike friendly like Amsterdam, Rotterdam boasts several districts for visitors to explore. The popular Delfshaven district is where the pilgrims launched sail from in 1620, and the summertime festivals and carnivals there attract visitors from nearby European countries every year.

Erasmus Bridge is highly unique and imposing, but highly regarded as a work of art, as it soars over Europe’s largest harbor. By far, the most popular visitor stop is at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, where artworks on display span from the Middle Ages to modern times, including masterpieces by Dali, Van Gogh, Bosch, and Rembrandt.

8. Groningen [SEE MAP]

This culturally diverse university city is small but boasts two colleges, making it the main place to visit in the northern part of the Netherlands, especially concerning the arts, business, and education.

Museum lovers never tire in Groningen, as the Groninger Museum is one of the most innovative and modern in all of Holland, and there is additionally a graphical museum, comics museum, maritime museum, and a university museum. Music and theater abound in Groningen, and many street cafes feature live entertainment.

Because of its high student population, nightlife hotspots are a huge attraction, with The Grote Markt, the Peperstraat, and the Vismarkt being the most popular.

7. Haarlem [SEE MAP]

The center of the tulip bulb-growing district, Haarlem is unofficially dubbed Bloemenstad, which means ‘flower city’ and is naturally the home of the Annual Bloemencorso Parade. This quiet bedroom community lies along the shoreline of the Spaarne River and boasts numerous intact medieval structures around town.

Visitors enjoy shopping and perusing the stunning architecture and museums along the Grote Markt city center. Popular museums in Haarlem include the oldest museum in the country, the Teylers Museum, which specializes in natural history, art, and science exhibits. Art aficionados find themselves drawn to the Franz Hals Museum where many Dutch masters’ works rest.

6. Utrecht [SEE MAP]

The rich Middle Age history of Utrecht is very apparent in the city’s architecture, with its most unique feature being the inner canal wharf system that was created to stave off parts of the Rhine River from invading the city center. Utrecht’s claim to fame may be the fact that it boasts the largest college in the Netherlands, the University of Utrecht.

Another notable visitor attraction in Utrecht includes the awe-striking Gothic Cathedral of Saint Martin, a 200-year structural feat that began in 1254. Architecture and museum enthusiasts should not miss the Dom Tower, the Rietveld Schroder House, and the Museum Speelklok, which boasts a vast collection of striking clocks, music boxes, and self-playing musical instruments.

5. Maastricht [SEE MAP]

Best known for its dynamic city square, the Vrijthof, Maastricht in southern Holland is home to the impressive Saint Servatius Church, the Saint Jan’s Cathedral, and the old fortifications, or Vestigingswerkens, are huge draws for visitors here.

Many annual festivals take place at the Vrijthof, with local favorites arriving in autumn and winter, and this bustling town square also boasts amazing cafes, hip bars, and interesting galleries and shops. Other popular attractions in Maastricht include the St. Pietersberg Caves and the Helpoort, the oldest surviving town gate of its kind in the Netherlands.

4. The Hague [SEE MAP]

Best known for the contemporary art exhibits at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag and the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis, The Hague is arguably one of the most extraordinary places to visit in the Netherlands. Known as the Royal City by the Sea due to its Dutch Royalty citizens, visitors often enjoy spending time along the North Sea in the warmer months at the sea town of Scheveningen.

Several notable monuments and historic districts are easily traversable in The Hague, and travelers can peruse the luxury department stores, cozy shops, and international art galleries with ease. The Binnenhof, the seat of the government of the Netherlands is also located in The Hague even though Amsterdam is the capital. Other attractions in The Hague include the miniature city, Madurodam and a 360 degree panoramic view of the Scheveningen Sea in the 19th century at Panorama Mesdag.

3. Delft [SEE MAP]

From the Renaissance style City Hall building on the Markt Square to the city’s traditional Holland canals, architecture, and vibe, Delft is a progressive town that has worked diligently to restore its antiquated appearance. This unspoiled town is an ideal day trip destination or vacation destination if the busy streets of Amsterdam are undesirable for a long stay.

Popular sites include The Prinsenhof, where the bullet holes still remain from the death of William of Orange. This museum tells the tale of the Eighty Years’ War and also features many intriguing artworks. Those looking for a Johannes Vermeer souvenir or print cannot miss stopping by Vermeer Centrum in Delft.

2. Leiden [SEE MAP]

The picturesque city of Leiden is a great place to visit for its scenic, tree-lined canals that are marked with old windmills, wooden bridges and lush parks. A boat ride down one of these lovely canals makes for an unforgettable experience. Attractions in Leiden include the numerous museums that range from science and natural history to museums dedicated to windmills and Egyptian antiquities.

The Hortus Botanicus offers sprawling botanical gardens and the world’s oldest academical observatory. Visitors can also admire the beautiful architecture of the 16th century Church of St. Peter and check out its association with several historic people, including the American pilgrims.

1. Amsterdam [SEE MAP]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In The Netherlands

One of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Amsterdam is widely known for its party atmosphere, cannabis practice and the red light district. However, this capital city of the Netherlands offers so much more for all travelers such as its beautiful canal ring, historical buildings, world-class museums and famous attractions like the Anne Frank House, Vondelpark and Bloemenmarkt, the floating flower market.

Located in the province of North Holland, Amsterdam is a sprawling city with many districts, but getting around is easy with public buses, trams, metro lines and bicycles. At the heart of Amsterdam is the old city center.

Map of the Netherlands

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12 Best Things to do in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

11 Best Things to do in Utrecht, the Netherlands

10 Most Popular Attractions in The Hague

12 Best Things to do in Maastricht, the Netherlands

Reader interactions.

March 14, 2018 at 2:04 am

Don’t forget Giethoorn and nearby are the 53 megaliths “hunebedden” built by humans 3000 bc.

May 22, 2017 at 8:16 am

Beautiful pictures! Would love to visit those places with family 🙂 🙂

May 10, 2017 at 8:59 pm

To make it even more correct, Amsterdam is the constitutional capital. The Royal Palace in Amsterdam was built as the city hall during the 17th century and got it’s today’s role as the official Royal Palace in The Netherlands beginning of the 19th century, when The Netherlands became a kingdom in stead of a republic. This to serve as the official place in an otherwise really empty capital indeed. The Hague was originally the place where the count of Holland resided. Before the rebellion against the Spaniards the center of power was most of the time Brussels, today Belgium. But Belgium was seperated from the north once more in 1830.

December 18, 2016 at 1:13 pm

@Tom Perrett. You are incorrect. Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. The Hague or Den Haag is the seat of Government and where the Royal family reside.

July 24, 2016 at 11:47 pm

Just so you know the hague is the capital of the netherlands not amsterdam.

July 27, 2016 at 1:02 pm

no @Tom, Amsterdam is the capital.

May 24, 2016 at 6:01 pm

Just FYI, Holland is a Provence, not the name of the country. So, for example, Amsterdam is in the Provence of Holland, Maastricht is in Limburg, NOT Holland. The country is the Netherlands. This fact is frustrating to many Dutch who constantly are referred to as from Holland.

May 25, 2016 at 12:11 am

@Anneke, actually Amsterdam is in the province of North Holland, but I get your point.

November 1, 2015 at 2:15 am

Other – Amersfoort, the best by far for friendliness, helpful and fair prices

March 5, 2015 at 5:43 pm

Cool list and Delft is certainly worthy of its spot at 3, and arguably should be 2. While the list is subjective, Leiden is too high at 2. We lived in Amsterdam for 3 and 1/2 years and feel Den Bosch and Alkmaar have a little more to offer visitors then Leiden. A beachside town like Zandvoort Van Zee would be interesting to mix things up. The summer beach scene in the Netherlands is really underrated.

These types of lists are fun because it opens dialogue for debate.

March 10, 2015 at 3:22 am

I agree about the beach scene Alex, though I would go for a beach in Zeeland or Scheveningen for an urban beach experience.

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

best places to visit in the netherlands 2021

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.

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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19 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands Besides Amsterdam by residents

February 13, 2020 by Karen Turner 46 Comments

As a Dutch resident, I’ve been lucky enough to see many of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands that aren’t as well known to tourists as well as the Dutch countryside.

Although you’ve probably heard why you should visit Amsterdam, the prettiest Dutch cities to visit are often peaceful, less crowded, and more memorable. Keep reading for the 19 most atmospheric and beautiful cities/towns in the Netherlands that will help you discover more of the Netherlands.

I have lived in Amsterdam ( click for insider tips !) and the Hague. One of my favorite hobbies to take a train to a new Dutch city or town or village (dorp) that I haven’t been before.

Although Amsterdam is a lovely city, its centre is full of touristy shops and if you simply take the train, you’ll discover some beautiful small Dutch towns and large cities in the Netherlands that are full of incredible architecture and history.

As much as I love Amsterdam, the Netherlands is so much bigger and people joke that Amsterdam is like Dutch Disneyworld, so if you’re wondering where to go in the Netherlands…any of these cities might be a good idea to experience the real Netherlands. It should be noted that some of the cities are near Amsterdam while others are quite far, so depending on your time, make time to visit somewhere else.

Baarle-Nassau

Schiermonnikoog.

1 Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland
2.0.1 Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.
3 Muiden: The perfect day trip from Amsterdam
5 Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)
7 ‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:
8 Den Haag / The Hague
10 Baarle-Nassau
12 Rotterdam
13 Maastricht
15 Central cities to visit in the Netherlands
17 Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands
20 Giethoorn
21 Schiermonnikoog
22 Groningen
23 Leeuwarden
24 Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?
25 Enjoyed this? Share it!

Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland

You might be wondering: Is Holland the same as the Netherlands? Well, Holland is part of the Netherlands. It refers to one specific part of the Netherlands on the west coast (aka Noord Holland/South Holland).

Noord Holland is where most of the population lives, so people generally tend to call the Netherlands Holland as a result…however, you’re better off not describing the whole of the Netherlands as Holland since there are LOTS of other regions in the Netherlands worth visiting.

Noord Holland is where Amsterdam is located, so you’ll find many cities close to Amsterdam to visit. The fantastic train system in the Netherlands means that the towns near Amsterdam (in Holland) are at most about one hour from Amsterdam, which makes these cities the perfect one day trip from Amsterdam (or longer!) . Click for a complete list of the 20 best day trips from Amsterdam

Haarlem: An easy day trip from Amsterdam

Haarlem is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Amsterdam. People assume because they’ve visited Amsterdam that there’s nothing of worth in Haarlem, however, Haarlem is older than Amsterdam. (Similarly, you can easily find cheap accommodations in Haarlem and take the train to Amsterdam.)

Haarlem’s town center is dominated by the imposing St. Bavokerk (also known as Grote Kerk, Big Church). Built on the spot of a burned down 12th-century church, it became an official cathedral in 1557. It’s beautiful inside and out, with stunning stained glass windows and an organ on which a young Mozart—among other musicians of yore—played many a tune.

Beyond the cathedral, Haarlem has some great museums such as the eccentric Teyler’s Museum and De Hallen, a tiny contemporary art museum. If relaxation is in order, check out the Jopenkerk, a hip craft beer bar and restaurant in a converted church, and be sure to follow up with the city’s best fries (and mayonnaise) at De Friethoes.

In short, Haarlem is a great day trip from Amsterdam for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle (and the tourist traps!) for a day. (Thanks to Alex .)

Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.

Muiden: the perfect day trip from amsterdam.

Photo of Muiderslot castle, a castle near Amsterdam. One of the top places to visit in the Netherlands

This beautiful and historic Dutch town close to Amsterdam (only 40 minutes by bus) is the home of one of my favorite Dutch castles (Muiderslot) . Muiden minimizes cars and you’ll often see large ships passing through the town. Be sure to stop into one of the historic brown bars for a drink or a meal after visiting Muiderslot castle. You’ll feel like you stepped back in time. Click for more information about visiting castles in the Netherlands.

The beautiful Dutch city of Naarden seen from above

This atmospheric star-shaped fortress city in the Netherlands is widely considered one of the best Dutch cities to explore due to its well-preserved walls/moat and beautiful houses.

It is an easy train ride from Amsterdam to Naarden and you’ll find that there’s plenty of things to do outside of Amsterdam if you discover this beautiful Dutch city at your own pace.

Although there’s so many cute towns in the area, experiencing Naarden means that you’ll also get a glimpse into Dutch history as it has one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands (dating back to 1572!). Perfect for a half-day trip from Amsterdam or a day trip combined with visiting Muiden.

Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)

A bit further from Amsterdam, you’ll find the cities of South Holland, Brabant, and Limburg. This area is about 1-3 hours from Amsterdam, but these towns/cities are rich in culture, history, and beauty. (Sometimes less!)

Leiden, one of the cutest cities in the Netherlands to visit. Read why you should visit Leiden as a day trip from Amsterdam.

This charming university town only thirty minutes from Amsterdam is full of charm, stunning canals, beautiful Dutch canal houses, and so few crowds that you’ll be wondering where everyone is. Leiden can be mistaken for Amsterdam if you show the right photo although once you visit the historic Pieterskwartier, you won’t want to return to the crowds in the Red Light District.

Click for a complete guide to Leiden

‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:

Photo of Den Bosch, one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands to visit.

‘s-Hertogensbosch, or Den Bosch for short, is the capital city of North Brabant, famous for its hospitality, good food and people who know how to enjoy life.

Den Bosch is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands with city rights dating back to 1185. One of the most remarkable sights is the Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, built between 1380 and 1530. During a recent renovation on one of the flying buttresses, there was added a statue of an angel holding a cell phone.

Those who love art can visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre to learn about Den Bosch’s most famous painter (Hieronymus Bosch). From the tower of the Centre, you will have a breathtaking view of the city. A different way to see Den Bosch is to take a boat tour on the Binnendieze through the city’s canals, including under many of the buildings.

There are also markets on the main square on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Many restaurants are located at the Markt, De Parade and Vismarkt squares and on the streets: Korenbrugstraat and Korte Putstraat.

The specialty of Den Bosch is the Bossche bol – a gigantic profiterole covered with dark chocolate and filled with whipped cream. Den Bosch is a perfect destination for a one-day trip, however, my advice is to stay a few days extra so that you can thoroughly enjoy the city. During Carnaval, the city changes names and turns into a giant party in the streets.

(Thanks to Daniela from Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Den Haag / The Hague

Photo of Binnenhof, the building used for government meetings in the Netherlands

Den Haag is often overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it is full of fantastic museums as well as historic architecture. Although Amsterdam is the capital, the Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and the home of Dutch Parliament.

For history geeks, it’s also the home of the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court in addition to hosting many of the main governing bodies of the Netherlands. One of the ones not to miss is the beautiful Binnenhof, which was a castle originally built in the 13th century to house counts. It is now used for meetings of the cabinets. (The Hague is about 1 hour from Amsterdam.)

Den Haag is also full of hofjes (historic courtyards that used to be almshouses), fantastic museums, and a lively Chinatown. For math and art geeks, you can visit the Escher Museum, which is housed in a former palace. The building is beautiful, but the art is even more fascinating.

Even more famous is the Mauritshuis, which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring and The Goldfinch . If you’re an art geek with a love for the Dutch Golden age, this beautiful museum in a palatial setting is a must-see during your trip.

If you’re in Den Haag, don’t miss the Netherlands’ most famous boardwalk along the beach: Scheveningen . The pier is a day in itself with tons of activities for couples and families alike!

Click for an insider’s guide to what to do in the Hague with 30+ things to do in the Hague!

Click for a one day guide to the Hague

Windmill in the fortified Dutch city of Heusden

Heusden is a small fortified town on the River Maas. A bird view of the town is pretty amazing, as it looks like a star from the air. Heusden is the perfect destination for slow travel in the Netherlands as you can walk along the old city walls, get lost in the narrow streets, or sit at café Havenzicht to watch the yachts passing by.

The town was built in the early 13th century to replace a castle destroyed by the Duke of Brabant. The stronghold played a significant role in the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) against Spanish dominance. In the 70’s the town has been completely restored based on a map from 1649.

There are many places to eat in Heusden, but you should try the Dutch pancakes at De Pannekoekenbakker. When walking around in Heusden, there are many art galleries, including the shop of famous Dutch footwear designer Jan Jansen.

(Thanks to Daniela from Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Photo of Baarle-Nassau, the Dutch/Flemish city with mixed borders.

Baarle-Nassau is one of those bizarre oddities you need to see to believe. Its misshapen borders are tightly entwined with the Flemish enclave of Baarle-Haartog, thanks to a handful of fickle treaties in medieval days of yore.

The task of figuring out which country a building resides in is so confusing that the town had to create a rule: country of residence is determined by which country the front door opens into. Since taxes in Belgium are lower, that led to a rush to renovate houses to have doors opening to the Belgian side!

The queer little town(s) merits a day trip at the very least. A scenic cycle, drive, or bus ride from nearby Tilburg will bring you to its wacky borders, marked on the ground with small crosses.

You can pick up a pannenkoek (pancake) at De Pannenkoekenbakker on the Dutch side, then hop over to Belgium to sample a Flemish brew or three at De Lantaern. No passport necessary! (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose .)

The beautiful Gouda Stadshuis, the oldest gothic city hall in the Netherlands. Do not miss this beautiful piece of Dutch architecture when visiting Holland! #travel #gouda #holland #netherlands

Gouda is known for its world-famous cheese, but the city has so much more. It is only 55 minutes by train and compact, so you can easily make it one of your day trips from Amsterdam and it is a must-see for the Netherlands if you’re a cheese lover. Thanks to Maartje!

The impressive Town Hall on the central market square is a unique monument not to miss! Courtyards: the oldest yard dates back to even 1449! St Jan church is the tallest church in the Netherlands and has huge stained glass windows. Look up and admire the facades of the Gouda houses with special ‘gevelstenen’, some even date back to 1609.

Stroopwafels are traditional Dutch syrup waffles. Try the waffles at Van Vliet bakery, where thousands are freshly baked daily on Lange Groenendaal street.

The Gouda cheese market occurs from April to the end of August. On Thursday mornings you can witness cheese making, cheese trading and weighing cheese in de Waag.

Click for a complete guide to Gouda

View of the Erasmus bridge in Rotterdam. Enjoying the views of this famous bridge is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands with a population only second in size to Amsterdam. If you’re looking for another city to visit, Rotterdam is where to go in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam due to its dramatically different cityscape.

Most of Rotterdam was destroyed in World War II, so they’ve had to rebuild everything. For modern architectural buffs, Rotterdam is a great place to explore for its architecture, including the famous Blaak cube houses and the Rotterdam Market Hall. You can go up the Euroscope and take in the panoramic view of Rotterdam.

There are a number of good restaurants in Rotterdam, including Guliano (Italian) and Takumi (Japanese ramen). Rotterdam has the largest Asian population in the whole Netherlands, so Chinatown is where to go for Asian food. Rotterdam is a great city for nightlife.

The Witte de Withstraat street is Rotterdam’s bar street. I personally loved Wunderbar, which is a bar that is below ground but allows you to order through a window on the street level. (Thanks to Tendelle .)

Click for a complete guide to Rotterdam

Beautiful street in Maastricht, a beautiful city in the south of the Netherlands

Maastricht is one of the most charming cities in the Netherlands and it can be easily explored in a weekend. The city is perfect for a slow, romantic weekend spent exploring a beautiful cathedral bookstore, strolling the tangled streets, touring historic caves, and eating/drinking delicious regional cuisine at affordable prices.

It’s a scenic 2.5-hour train ride each way south to Maastricht from Amsterdam and it costs about 25 euros per way. Its proximity makes it easy to hop over to Aachen, Germany for only 5 euros.

Recommended for a weekend trip from Amsterdam or a 1-2 day stopover between the Netherlands and Germany if you’re Eurorailing!

Central cities to visit in the Netherlands

Beautiful skyline of Utrecht, a beautiful city near Amsterdam

Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands and it’s the major Dutch city south of Amsterdam (only 40 minutes!). Utrecht is also a very old city that dates back to 1122 and it is the kind of city that you can get (happily) lost in.

I highly recommend exploring the beautiful and compact city center on foot, there are beautiful old houses, pretty canals and lots of cozy cafes (some with cellars opening up to the canals). Its canals are two stories, unlike Amsterdam’s canals.

One must-visit is the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands (112 meter high). Other interesting places to visit are the Railway Museum and Neude. For kids, there’s the Miffy museum.

If you’re planning a trip around the Netherlands and you’re looking for a good base in the Netherlands, Utrecht is perfect as it is exactly in the center of the Netherlands and it has reasonable accommodations. (Thanks to Lotte )

You’ll hear Dutchies raving that it is one of the best Dutch cities to visit and I’m apt to agree that it is one of the top places to visit in the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam.

Click for my guide to a day trip to Utrecht .

Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands

Photo of Zwolle. More about this pretty Dutch city on Wanderlustingk, a Netherlands travel blog

Just an hour by train from Amsterdam is a charming little city called Zwolle. In the centre, you will find beautiful Medieval buildings that make you feel like a princess! The streets are intimate but also have a broad range of shops and restaurants to explore. One of the most unique sites you will come upon in Zwolle is Waanders The Broeren, a beautiful bookstore situated in a 15th century church.

Designer BK Architecten elegantly designed the store without altering any of the church’s original structure. The best part is that you can enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the church over delicious food and drinks in the brasserie, nestled in the heart of the cathedral. It’s about 1.5 hours to Zwolle from Amsterdam. (Thanks to Melissa )

You can read a complete guide to things to do in Zwolle here.

Ommen by Emily. Best cities in Netherlands to visit.

Ommen is a historical city located on the banks of the Vecht River. Though it’s home to less than 9,000 residents, Ommen has been called a city since 1248, when it was granted stadsrechten (city rights) in order to protect itself from pillaging.

Today, Ommen is the ideal balance between a fun tourist spot and a serene country escape. Due to its small size and “remote” location (for the Netherlands, anyway), it remains a bit of a secret in the larger international community.

Notable spots around Ommen include the Reformed Church, the city’s oldest building (originally constructed in the 12th century), and three old-fashioned windmills – two of which are still in regular operation.

After wandering through the charming city square and narrow side streets, you can relax by the river, linger at a waterside café, or cycle through the picturesque Dutch countryside. The area is probably best known for the Bissingh – a festival that takes place every July, made up of markets, live music, and other events. The Bissingh now spans several weeks. (Thanks to Emily for this contribution).

Photo of Giethoorn, one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands to visit!

You may have seen photos of Giethoorn although few people know it by name (or can pronounce it correctly). It really is one of the prettiest dutch towns that I’ve seen. The small village of Giethoorn is in Overijssel and it is a bus ride away from Zwolle. This little town has no streets; only bridges, canals, and bike lanes.

You can rent a boat for 15 euros (per hour) to enjoy its picturesque canals although you should bring your own drinks/food as food in the town commands tourist prices (although it is possible to stop off for some frites!).

Tip: Go late in the afternoon to avoid large groups and stay overnight to enjoy the quiet small town feel. I consider boating around Giethoorn one of my favorite experiences in any one of the Dutch cities to visit in the Netherlands.

Click for information on visiting Giethoorn from Amsterdam.

Photo of Schiermonnikoog off the coast of the Netherlands. Read about the best places to visit in the Netherlands!

Schiermonnikoog is part of a Dutch group of islands called the Waddeneilanden (Wadden islands). The island is also the Netherlands’ first National Park, and the perfect getaway for nature lovers and bike enthusiasts.

What makes this, and other islands like it, so special, is that it’s virtually car free. Permanent residents of the island, of which there are only about 900, need a special permit to keep a car. Due to the small size and flat landscape, very few choose to do so, making Schiermonnikoog a car-free cycling paradise.

Nature lovers have plenty to look forward to on the island. Schiermonnikoog hosts the widest beach in Europe, has plenty of hiking trails, offers great bird watching opportunities, and is great for spotting sunbathing seal families.

It’s the perfect place to see the surprising variety of Dutch nature up close. If you tire of hedonism and history, head north to Schiermonnikoog to recharge your batteries, and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful parts of the Netherlands. (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose.) [If this appealed to you, you also might love the idea of Texel , which is about 2 hours north of Amsterdam.]

Cute Dutch buildings in Groningen, a Dutch city in the east of the Netherlands

This lively student city in the north of the Netherlands is full of charm and friendly folks. It’s also home of the world’s tallest climbing wall, the Excalibur . (I can proudly say that I’ve climbed it!)

We got happily lost in the beautiful historic centre with many cute shops, art galleries, and brown bars serving up delicious local beers. We enjoyed the incredible architecture of the University of Groningen, which was established in 1614. The campus is absolutely stunning and worth visiting. The Grote Markt has many food stands, including some amazing Venezuelan food (the best I’ve had!)

Click to read my guide to climbing Excalibur & a complete guide to Groningen written by a local.

The capital of Friesland, Leeuwarden, was named the 2018 European Capital of Culture and you can discover its rich history while walking around the city center.

Fryslân (Friesland) as a region has a unique culture and language (Frisian). The unfinished church is one of Leeuwarden’s most famous landmarks although you’ll also find beautiful parks. Leeuwarden is one of Fryslân’s eleven historic cities with beautiful architecture and a rich history. (To read more about Friesland or Leeuwarden, click here!)

Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?

If you have a favorite that is not included yet, please comment below!

Enjoyed this? Share it!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 13, 2017 at 8:37 pm

Wow! This is such a comprehensive post that opened my mind to other places outside of Amsterdam. I’d heard of a few (think Utrecht and Gouda, plus Holland) but had no idea about the others. I LOVE that first picture of Haarlem too. For someone who’s from the UK it’s kinda shameful I haven’t been yet, but this will definitely come in handy if I ever do!

May 13, 2017 at 8:45 pm

Such a nice list about Netherlands! I visited Amsterdam and Utrecht before, and had great time there 🙂 So many other cities to explore!

May 13, 2017 at 8:53 pm

Pinned this interesting read! We were just discussing yesterday about how we could spend a week in Netherlands and I knew of only Rotterdam and Amsterdam!… Thanks for your inputs, now I have too much to fit in a week.. lol..

May 13, 2017 at 9:07 pm

It´s been ages since I was in Amsterdam and the coast – but never was to many of these towns on your list! Looks awesome and since I´m not all that far from NL, a road trip has to happen next year! Giethoorn looks like out of a fairytale, x

May 13, 2017 at 9:16 pm

I fell in love with the Netherlands upon my first visit, but now I absolutely can’t wait to get back!

May 13, 2017 at 9:48 pm

They really are picturesque! I have only been to Amsterdam, so your post gives me inspiration to explore more for sure. Pinned for later.

May 13, 2017 at 9:49 pm

I really like Utrecht and I was lucky to be there on the Queen’s Day some years ago. Thanks for all the suggestions about other places to visit, Baarle-Nassau in particular sounds intriguing. I’ve just clicked through to your Amsterdam post as we’re going in October!

May 13, 2017 at 10:15 pm

I live very close to Naarden and it is a beautiful city. It’s also a great area for cycling through the forest. It’s nice to see an article about other places than Amsterdam. There is so much to see in the Netherlands.

May 14, 2017 at 12:18 am

Omg I cannot believe there is a TOWN called GOUDA and its actually all about CHEESE. These cities are the perfect excuse to come back to the Netherlands for more Stroopwafel 😛

May 14, 2017 at 12:36 am

I didn’t know the Netherlands have so many beautiful cities and towns. I’ve only been to Rotterdam and Maastricht but I should definitely visit some more – especially because I’m a neighbour haha.

May 14, 2017 at 9:05 am

I have only been to Amsterdam, but I’d love to see more of the Netherlands! This post was very inspiring. I’m pinning it for when I plan a return trip 🙂

May 14, 2017 at 6:29 pm

I smiled throughout this post as i have been to many of them. So much more to explore though. Thank you for this comprehensive list!

May 14, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Love this list! I’ve only ever been to Amsterdam (guilty as charged), but I’d love to see the countryside and smaller towns and maybe do a bicycle trip around the country one day!

May 14, 2017 at 11:17 pm

I have to admit that I am one of those people who has only been to Amsterdam and really haven’t had any urge to venture outside of it. This post has definitely inspired me to head back to the Netherlands though! Giethoorn looks amazing!

May 15, 2017 at 10:31 am

Explore Friesland too. There are lots of small villages like Makkum (the fishers village) a village just close by Afsluitdijk or drop by in Aldfaerserf Openluchtmuseum in Allingawier. You can visit Leeuwarden too and some other big cities in Friesland.

May 15, 2017 at 11:13 am

Hi May, Thanks for commenting. I actually just visited Friesland this weekend (for the first time) to visit Leeuwarden as well as Franeker. Super charming and I’ll be adding about 5 more cities to this list very soon, including at least one in Friesland. Driving the Afsluitdijk was really incredible. Thank you for commenting and I will include more regions soon!

May 15, 2017 at 12:16 pm

Here is an interesting one.I was once accepted for a Masters in Maastricht. Life happened, but now it’s now super high on my list! I love seeing places beyond Amsterdam, so this list is really good!

May 15, 2017 at 6:05 pm

This post has definitely inspired me to visit the Netherlands ! I’d love to see the countryside, small towns and do a bicycle trip around the country 🙂 I’ve only visited Amsterdam few years ago… but there are so many places to explore outside of Amsterdam !

May 15, 2017 at 8:05 pm

Karen, lovely article. However, as an American living in Den Haag, and having to answer the question quite often about the Holland/Netherlands question, I thought I might give you a bit of info. Noord Holland and Zuid Holland are the two most populated provinces, and where the largest cities are located, thus the overarching term for the country as Holland. Although you do mention Zuid Holland far into your post, at the top you only mention Noord Holland. You might want to edit to include both provinces. Bedankt!

May 15, 2017 at 11:07 pm

Dear Suzanne, You are very correct. I wasn’t necessarily clear with my wording in the original copy, but I’ve updated to reflect the reality of the Randstad. Thank you for your comment. Thank you for reading. 🙂

July 30, 2017 at 1:51 am

Leiden in South Holland is also worth a visit. It’s a very old university town and it’s my husband’s hometown, incidentally. I have visited it many times and love the waterways that flow through it including the Oude Rijn.

May 15, 2017 at 8:14 pm

LOL I was reading this article and wishing you would mention my city Groningen. x

May 15, 2017 at 11:06 pm

JUST updated with Groningen. I actually intended to include it originally, but ran out of time prior to publication. I really enjoyed it, especially the lovely brown bars and the Excalibur climbing wall! Adding 4 more now to round it out at 20!

May 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Hello Karen, Oh wow! I’m sure you’ve visited the oldest planetarium in the world- Planetarium Eise Eisinga. I’m excited to read your next blog 🙂

May 19, 2017 at 3:14 am

Wow, this is a wonderful post! The first and last time I went to Netherlands, was when I was 16… That’s very long ago. Being from Germany, I definitely missed out on visiting the surrounding countries. You pictures are gorgeous and inspire to visit even smaller cities! It seems there are little gems everywhere!

May 19, 2017 at 8:27 am

Nice blog! Maybe you could add a fee words about the forts that were built to protect the cities from marauding armies, the Hollandse Waterlinie. The forts are converted for many different purposes. Gorinchem, where I live, has four or five of them. The city is surrounded by complete ramparts and fortifications as well, and you can visit Woudrichem/Loevestein castle plus fort Vuren by foot ferry.

May 20, 2017 at 3:01 pm

Love this! We went to Amsterdam last year and checked out Utrecht which I loved. Our next destination in the Netherlands is Rotterdam so excited that it made the list as well. 🙂

May 21, 2017 at 5:56 pm

I went to Amsterdam almost two years ago and absolutely loved it! This is such a great post to explore more of the Netherlands besides the big city. I will be saving this for my travel planning!

May 24, 2017 at 10:30 am

OH MY GOSH! This is amazing. Beautiful photos, amazing experience. I envy you. 🙂

June 18, 2017 at 3:53 pm

Thanks for this post! I want to explore other parts of the Netherlands but didn’t know where to start. These towns sound awesome and I’ve actually heard of some of them. Giethoorn looks so sweet and beautiful!

June 29, 2017 at 2:10 pm

Oh my God nice pictures thanks for shear it.

July 15, 2017 at 1:19 pm

I love how you also listed some lesser known places, like Zwolle and Leeuwarden. Personally, I also really love Breda and Middelburg 🙂 Oh… and Deventer.

July 17, 2017 at 11:40 am

Muiden is a very beautiful place to be.Muiden is a city and former municipality in the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland. It lies at the mouth of the Vecht and is in an area called the Vechtstreek

July 30, 2017 at 2:39 am

Hi Daphne, I was recently there and loved it. I need to update this post with the new places I’ve been recently!

August 21, 2017 at 11:45 am

I live in Amsterdam but in this kinda posts i never read anything About my home town Breda in the south. City famous for its old beautiful centre, Forrest at the south, beer, candies, carnaval, jazz festival And last but not least the Netherlands most famous DJ (Tiësto) is from this place. Good to combine with Rotterdam as there is a highspeed train from Amsterdam via Rotterdam to Breda.

November 3, 2017 at 2:58 pm

I live here for a 4 years already (in Gouda – totally agree on its appearance on your list!). I cannot really say I love Amsterdam, it is waaaaay to crowded for me… But other small cities like Haarlem, Dordrecht, Delft, Leiden….mmmm…. small and cozy :)))) For those who said they never knew Netherlands has so many beautiful places to visit – there are even more!

July 13, 2018 at 5:27 pm

Nice compilation. Disappointed that the nice Zeelandic towns like Middelburg and Vlissingen are missing. Maybe you are yet to explore those

July 13, 2018 at 5:28 pm

Hi Raj, I was in Middelburg about 2-3 weeks ago. I’ll definitely be updating it to include it. 🙂

Watch for a guide this month!

Best, Karen

September 19, 2018 at 1:06 am

Nice list,but Amersfoort deserves to be on it as well,my hometown. Mooie lijst,maar Amersfoort verdient on we ook op te staan,mijn stad One of the oldest medieval towns in the Netherlands 20 km. from Utrecht. From Amersfoort you can go anywhere in The Netherlands,it is Railroad hub.

September 15, 2019 at 10:12 pm

Hi, my favourite towns are Marken (I love lighthouses) and Elburg – you wont forget either in a hurry.

October 23, 2019 at 9:54 pm

I’m just wrapping up a 3.5 week trip the the Netherlands, ending in Amsterdam. I started in Delft, with side trips to The Hague and Leiden; then Rotterdam, Utrecht, Maastricht and finally Amsterdam, heading to Haarlem tomorrow (which is how I found your blog). I’ve loved each place in its own way but, so far, Leiden is my favorite.

October 24, 2019 at 11:37 am

Hi Eileen, Thank you for this lovely comment. It makes me so happy to read this as there are so many charming cities in the Netherlands to see! Curious if Leiden takes the crown for you after seeing Haarlem! I regularly visit Delft and Leiden myself. 🙂

August 16, 2020 at 11:12 pm

Please mention Arnhem, a beautiful city and take the side trip to the POSTBANK!!!

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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

An enchanting view of Amsterdam, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

Delft is one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

A dazzling view of Rotterdam, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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.

4. The Hague: For A Vibrant Nightlife

Take a look at the spectacular view of the Hague, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

A glorious view of Maastricht, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

A majestic view of Edam in the Netherlands

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

A stunning view of Eindhoven, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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.

8. Leiden: For A Scenic Experience

A breathtaking view of Leiden in the Netherlands

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

A glorious view of Utrecht, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

10. Giethoorn: For Super Scenic Waterways

A majestic view of Giethoorn one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

A mesmerising view of Leeuwarden, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

12. Haarlem: A Medieval City

A spectacular view of Haarlem, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

The stunning view of Groningen, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

14. Middelburg: An Old Town In Netherlands

A stunning view of Middelburg, one of the best places to visit 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

A sparkling view of Volendam in the Netherlands

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

A majestic view of Kinderdijk, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

A dazzling view of Thorn, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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

18. Alkmaar: Know More About Dutch Architecture

A spectacular view of Alkmaar in the Netherlands

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

A stunning view of Breda, one of the best places to visit in Netherlands

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.

20. Gouda: Famous For Its World-Class Cheese

A mesmerising view of Gouda in the Netherlands

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

A spectacular view of Arnhem, one of the must-visit places Netherlands

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.

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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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.

Tulips and windmill at Keukenhof, Lisse, The Netherlands

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.

1. Jordaan and Amsterdam's Canals

2. keukenhof, lisse, 3. rijksmuseum, amsterdam, 4. historic binnenhof, the hague, 5. anne frank house, amsterdam, 6. oude haven, rotterdam, 7. van gogh museum, amsterdam, 8. the windmills of kinderdijk, 9. de hoge veluwe national park, otterlo, 10. cathedral square, utrecht, 11. the ijsselmeer (zuiderzee), enkhuizen, 12. delta works: zeeland's spectacular dikes, 13. historic valkenburg, 14. royal delft, delft, 15. de haar castle, 16. the netherlands open air museum, best time to visit the netherlands.

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

St. Martin's Cathedral, or Dom Church in Utrecht

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.

Royal Delft porcelain vases for sale in Delft, The Netherlands

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!).

More on Netherlands

25 Most Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

Which are the most beautiful places in the Netherlands? This post contains a selection of the most beautiful cities , little towns and villages , castles , gardens and nature parks in the Netherlands. It provides inspiration for everyone who wants to visit the country but doesn’t know what are the must-sees and where to start. Discover the Netherlands with these 25 amazing places!

I have divided those charming places in 5 categories. I thought it would be fair if I include 5 entries per category, thus I can show you the diversity the Netherlands can offer to all visitors.

You can scroll through the list or you can choose a category from the drop-down menu that’s of interest to you. There is also a handy map, with all places indicated on it, which will help you to better plan your stay in the country.

De Biesbosch

Loonse en drunense duinen, alde feanen, de haar castle, hoensbroek castle, slot loevestein, ammersoyen castle, the gardens of appeltern, the castle gardens of arcen, the castle garden of oud-valkenburg, botanical garden in kerkrade, final words, 5 most beautiful cities in the netherlands.

canal with rounded bridges and houses with bell gables - Amsterdam

Amsterdam with its spiderweb of canals and the stepped-gable houses alongside the water is perhaps the most visited place in the Netherlands and undeniably one of the most beautiful cities not only in the Netherlands but in the world. When you visit the Netherlands for the first time, the Dutch capital should be on your bucket list. Take a boat trip along the canals (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visit a museum or two if you have more time. If you are a fan of Van Gogh, you won’t be disappointed, as the Van Gogh Museum has the biggest collection of the artist’s works. The Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank Museum are also a must.

Tip: When planning your visit to Amsterdam, check out these 4 walking routes in the Dutch capital . The post contains also a map for an easy self-guided tour.

Read more: Best things to do and see in Amsterdam if you are visiting only for a day

a typical city square with building with stepped gables, Den Bosch in the Netherlands

Den Bosch, or ‘s-Hertogenbosch, is the major city of North Brabant – the Dutch province that’s famous for the good food and the joie-de-vivre life style. Admire the majestic St. John’s Cathedral ( Sint-Janskathedraal ) and take a boat tour in the old city sewerage ( De Binnendieze ). Don’t miss to take a beer on De Parade (a square near the cathedral) and if you are fan of the Medieval painter Hieronymus Bosch, who was born there in this city, visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre , where you can find all his works (in reproduction) at one place.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Den Bosch

city roofs and a tall church tower, Utrecht in the Netherlands

Utrecht is absolutely charming with its canals and the cafes at the water level . When in Utrecht, visit the beautiful Dom (the cathedral of Utrecht). You can climb to the top of the cathedral for some amazing views or get underneath it for some Roman ruins. If you want to get off-the-beaten path, visit the quirky Museum Speelklok , where you can admire their unique collection of self-playing instruments.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Utrecht

city riverfront with a tower, and old bridge and some green trees at the foreground, Maastricht in the Netherlands

Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and is often called the Pearl of the South. The locals just love a day trip to Maastricht combined with some first class shopping. When in Maastricht, visit the beautiful Vrijthof Square with the St. Servatius Basilica ( Sint-Servaasbasiliek ) and the St. John’s Church ( Sint-Janskerk ). A fan of classic music? Then a concert of Andre Rieu on the Vrijthof Square in the summer is a must. This is a once-in-a-life-time experience and I can vouch for it from first hand.

Read more: How to spend the perfect day in Maastricht . If you are visiting in the winter you should not miss the famous Christmas Market of Maastricht .

cubus houses at background and some boat masts at the foreground, Rotterdam in the Netherlands

Rotterdam is like no other city in the Netherlands – it’s modern, it’s hipster and it’s full of life. It’s one of the few places in the Netherlands where the skyline is dominated by high-rises . When in Rotterdam, take a boat tour in the harbour. Europort used to be the biggest one in the world, but it lost its first place some years ago, now being only the biggest in Europe. If you love great views, climb to the top of the Euromast and if you need a bit of an adrenaline rush, you can go down with a zip-wire. Oh, and fan of quirky architecture? Take a look at the famous Cube Houses or the Markthal.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Rotterdam

5 Most beautiful villages and small towns in the Netherlands

two rows of white houses with a church tower at the background and a water pump with a street light in the foreground, Thorn in the Netherlands

They call it the little white town and for a reason. All the houses are white in this little place, something quite unusual for the Netherlands. Thorn has unique historical heritage. It started as a cloister and turned into a prosperous Abbey-State , a dwarf state in the 15th-18th centuries, ruled by women. The town is a popular tourist destination among the Dutch. The best Dutch pancakes restaurant has there a branch, so I can’t help it but recommend paying a visit to the Pannekoekenbakker for the most delicious Dutch pancakes.

Read more: What to see and in Thorn and why are the houses after all white in Thorn

two windmills on the bank of a river harbour with some boats and yachts, Heusden in the Netherlands

When you travel to the Netherlands, you should visit at least one of its walled towns, which are part of the so-called Southern Defense Line ( De Zuiderwaterlinie ). Heusden is one of them – a little town in the shape of a star, surrounded by water. It looks as if time has stopped in Heusden, but instead of being just and open-air museum, the little place is actually a regular small town with a great dose of charm and lots of cuteness. When in Heusden, take a walk alongside the bulwarks , thus you can make a complete circle around the town. For some great Dutch pancakes, stop at the Pannekoekenbakker .

Read more: Best things to do in Heusden, recommended by a local

colorful flowers in the foreground and some houses at the background with a road and a channel in-between, Valkenburg in the Netherlands

Valkenburg is a lovely small town in South Limburg. It’s famous for the chalk quarries ( mergelgrotten ) and the Castle Ruins ( Kasteelruinen ) perched on a hill above the town. Numerous cafes and restaurants line up the streets of this small place. It’s a very popular holiday destination among the Dutch and it’s always thriving with life. Well, after all, it’s one of the two places in the Netherlands where there are caves. Moreover the landscape around Valkenburg is quite pretty with the rolling hills and the cattle grazing on the meadows, and the occasional castle here and there.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Valkenburg, recommended by a local

a draw bridge in the front with beautiful buildings with shutters behind against a blue sky with white clouds, De Rijp in the Netherlands

Once an important harbour, this cute little place turned into an inland town after the sea was drained in the 17th century to make place for more land. The regained land from the sea is known as polder , and the area around De Rijp – De Beemster Polder , is included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the last years most of the houses have been beautifully restored and the little town is full of charm. You can find there some of the oldest wooden houses in the Province of North Holland.

a house with a thatched roof on the side of a canal with a wooden bridge, Giethoorn in Netherlands

They call it the Venice of the North or the Dutch Venice and indeed Giethoorn completely deserves its nickname. Imagine an idyllic small village with no streets but canals instead. Beautiful houses, mostly farms, with thatched roofs, lots of green and flowers and the willows hanging above the crooked bridges. Unfortunately the last years Giethoorn has been discovered by the tourists and is suffering from overtourism. Nonetheless, the place is simply gorgeous and too cute not to see it.

5 Most beautiful national parks in the Netherlands

birds resting on sand with some shallow water and highlands cows lying on the beach, Texel National Park Netherlands

If you are in a search of a quiet place with gorgeous sunsets, green waters and vast sand beaches – you’ll find it all on this small West Frisian island . Not to forget the little quaint villages, the pastoral landscapes and the great local food. Oh, and a part of the island is a protected area as one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. When travelling to Texel, just leave your car on the mainland, as you won’t need it on the island. However taking your bike with you is a great idea.

Read more: Best things to do on Texel island

river with the banks grown with high green grass and green trees against blue sky with fluffy white clouds, De Biesbosch Netherlands

De Biesbosch is probably the most unique national park in the Netherlands. The land that was reclaimed from the marshlands in the past centuries is now given back to nature. De Biesbosch is one of the biggest freshwater tidal wetlands in Europe – a network of interconnected rivers and creeks, a kind of an inland delta. The best way to discover this beautiful area is by boat.

Read more: De Biescbosch National Park – complete travel guide

sand dunes with withered brownish heather and green pine trees at the horizon with blue sky and white clouds above, The Dunes of loon and Drunen in the Netherlands

This Dutch National Park looks totally out of place – moving sand dunes in de middle of the country. The Dunes of Loon and Drunen are actually the biggest sand-drifting area in Northern Europe. For a country with hardly any hilltops, leave alone mountains, the Dunes are great for hiking and even sleighing in the winter (if it happens to snow). In the late summer when the heath is in bloom, the dunes turn into a magical purple haze.

Read more: Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park – complete travel guide

a marsh surrounded by green trees and blue sky above, De Meinweg National park in the Netherlands

De Meinweg is another one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. This park is characterized by terraced landscape with steep transitions between the plateaus. You can walk there through forests , marshlands and lakes . There’s also this lovely trail that goes along a boardwalk through a flooded forest. As the National Park is located at the border with Germany, you might just pop up there without noticing it.

canals and patches of land covered with dried up yellowish grass and a few birch trees in the middle, Alde Feanen national park in the Netherlands

De Alde Feanen National Park is the youngest National Park in the Netherlands. It was added in 2012 as the 20th National Park. It’s a bogland area located in Dutch Province of Friesland near the capital city Leeuwarden. The bog is home to more than 450 plant species and over 100 bird species . The most popular inhabitants of the Alde Feanen are the white storks . You can spot them everywhere. It’s a peaceful area where you can go for walking, biking or boating. It’s so quiet there that you will feel absolutely disconnected from the rest of the world.

Read more: De Alde Feanen National Park – complete travel guide

5 Most beautiful castles and palaces in the Netherlands

a huge castle with rounded turrets surrounded by water, De Haar Castle in the Netherlands

De Haar Castle ( Kasteel De Haar ) near Utrecht is perhaps the most famous and most visited Dutch castle. If it’s the most beautiful one, that’s pretty subjective, but it’s for sure quite imposing. The castle was restored in 1892 by the famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers in a Gothic Revival style. The original castle dates back to the end of the 14th century. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens. You can visit both the castle and the park.

a medieval castle with some flags in front of it and a small model of the castle itself, Hoensbroek Castle in the Netherlands

The Hoensbroek Castle ( Kasteel Hoensbroek ) is a lovely castle in the southern province of Limburg. The first fortress on this place dates back to 1360. Through the years the castle has been expanded many times. It belonged to the van Hoensbroek family, the one that built it for nearly 6 centuries. In 1927 the castle was sold to a foundation which still manages it as of present. Today, the castle can be visited and it gives an idea of how life was in 17th and 18th centuries. The furnishings are back from the period. You can do a self-guided tour of the castle and in each room there are interactive stories told in various ways.

a medieva castle with turrets and a rounded tower on a green hill, surrounded by a moat, Slot Loevestein in the Netherlands

Slot Loevestein was built in the 14th century by the knight Dirc Loef but soon after it was taken by the Count of Holland . In the 17th century the castle was turned into a state prison. One of the greatest legal scholars, the father of the modern international law – Hugo Grotius ( Hugo de Groot in Dutch), was imprisoned there but he succeeded to escape. How did he manage to escape? I won’t tell you. Visit the castle to find out.

a medieval castle with rounded towers at the corners surrounded by water, Ammerzoyen castle in the Netherlands

Ammersoyen Castle ( Kasteel Ammerzoyen ) is a beautiful castle surrounded by water in the province of Gelderland. The construction of the defensive castle near the Meuse River started in the 12th century and it was finished in the 13th century. The Ammersoyen Castle was completely restored to its medieval glory in the 1970s and is open for visitors.

a fountain in the form of the globe with a French style garden at the backside and a part of a building with stairs and a golden door, Het Loo Palace in the Netherlands

There aren’t many palaces in the Netherlands, but from the few that are still there, Het Loo Palace ( Paleis Het Loo ) is undoubtedly the most beautiful one. And not only the palace is worth the visit. The meticulously manicured and kept Baroque gardens contrast with the natural and a bit wild beauty of the English park . Let’s say Het Loo Palace is the Dutch Versailles , but not because it looks like the palace near Paris, it’s because of its significance and role through the centuries as the palace of the House of Orange-Nassau (the Dutch Royal House).

Read more: The 15 most beautiful castles in the Netherlands

5 Most beautiful parks and gardens in the Netherlands

pink tulips and pink hyacinths in the foreground and lake and trees at the background, Keukenhof Netherlands

Tulips! Lots of tulips! Everywhere! You can’t find a place more Dutchy than that. Unfortunately, being a spring garden, Keukenhof is open only in the period March-May. It’s a perfectly manicured garden, where each year they plant more than 7 million spring flower bulbs . Hyacinths, tulips, crocuses, and daffodils in most amazing shapes and colors create intricate patterns and stun the visitors.

Read more: Everything you need to know about visiting Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands

beautiful purple flowers and lots of green, the gardens of Appeltern in the Netherlands

The Gardens of Appeltern ( De Appeltern Tuinen ) started as a company project and evolved into the biggest and most beautiful garden park in the Netherlands. The park was created in 1980s as a series of show-model gardens and today it features more than 200 different inspiration gardens on 23 ha.

a French type of a castle garden with borders and shaped boxwood trees, Arcen Netherlands

If you are visiting the Netherlands and the Keukenhof gardens are closed your best bet will be the Castle Gardens of Arcen ( Kasteeltuinen Arcen ). A meticulously manicured park with gardens and a lovely castle – the Castle Gardens of Arcen won’t disappoint you. The best time to visit the park is June-July when all flowers are in bloom. Beside the gardens, you can also visit the castle.

The Castle Garden of Oud-Valkenburg ( Kasteeltuin Oud-Valkenburg ) is a lovely small scale garden in South Limburg. Once it used to be the kitchen garden of the Schaloen Castle . Today, it features a herbal garden and a heritage garden , which shows local traditional flora. There’s also a watermill at the garden. You can combine a visit to the garden with a walk to the castle. The Schaloen Castle is not open for visitors, but there is a nice cafe outside where you can enjoy the beautiful view with the castle and its gardens.

arches made of trees which resemble the interior of a cathedral, the Botanical Garden in Kerkrade, Netherlands

The Botanical Garden in Kerkrade ( Botanische Tuin Kerkrade ) has a very interesting history. It opened in 1937 as a recreational garden for the mine workers of the State Mines ( Staatsmijnen ). Mining was booming in South Limburg and lots of facilities were created for the equally booming population in the region. The centerpiece of the Botanical Garden is the Open-air Cathedral – the trees are arched and arranged in such a way that they remind of the framework of a cathedral. There are 195 varieties of plants and trees found today in the Botanical Garden.

Read more: What to do and see in Kerkrade

Although flat as a pancake, the Netherlands can offer some amazing places, from the capital city of Amsterdam with its UNESCO-listed canals and stepped-gable houses, to the quaint little village of Giethoorn with no streets. For an explosion of colors yous should visit the famous Keukenhof tulip gardens and if you want to escape the world, you can do so in one of the National Parks. Chasing castles? No problem. You will find an abundance of them!

Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group , where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.

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21 beautiful towns in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam

There's more than just Amsterdam out there.

There are so many beautiful towns in the Netherlands, but it’s easy to get wrapped up in that city life. Here are 21 stunning options for you to check out while escaping from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.

If you’re new here and are after something that isn’t just Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, then you’re in luck.

READ MORE | 19 best day trips from Amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide

Whether you’re a tourist or a resident of the lowlands, we’re always on the lookout for beautiful towns to visit in the Netherlands.

1. Giethoorn

3. amersfoort, 4. zierikzee, 7. bunschoten-spakenburg, 9. gorinchem, 10. valkenburg, 11. willemstad, 13. ‘s-hertogenbosch (den bosch), 14. maastricht, 15. naarden, 17. utrecht, 18. roermond, 19. the hague, 21. alkmaar.

With its picturesque atmosphere, a large concentration of canals, and countless boats, Giethoorn is known as “the Venice of the Netherlands.”

photo-of-dutch-house-with-bridge-over-canal-in-giethoorn

The place is postcard-perfect: everything is incredibly clean, people’s lawns are perfectly trimmed, and all the houses are matching.

It’s good to know that in the summer months, the place is busy! Like, really busy.

Giethoorn is especially popular with group tour agencies, so if you’re looking to hire your own private boat, do it well in advance.

Located on the Berkel and IJssel rivers, Zutphen is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and has one of the best-preserved medieval town centres in northwestern Europe.

Nicknamed the Torenstad because of its large, historic buildings and variety of towers that form the city’s skyline, this “Hanzestad” has a rich history going back to the days of the Romans 1,700 years ago.

Some of the things you definitely shouldn’t miss on your visit include the wine house, the museum, and Zutphen’s unique library.

Amersfoort is one of our personal favourites. The whole place is incredibly picturesque and drenched in history.

The iconic Koppelpoort, which was built in 1425, dominates most pictures and looks especially good at night. However, there is a lot more to Amersfoort than just this.

Apart from the Koppelpoort, the city centre is beautiful as well — it’s the perfect place to go for a walk and explore.

There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and museums located within Amersfoort, making it an ideal place for a day trip .

Zierikzee in Zeeland is a small port town with a dynamic history.

There are 568 national monuments in and around the city centre, which places Zierikzee in the top ten Dutch cities with the greatest number of monuments.

It is the most historically preserved town in the province of Zeeland.

photo-of-zuidhavenpoort-in-zierikzee-city-in-the-netherlands

The first thing we recommend doing when you come here for a day trip is to simply wander around.

Zierikzee has beautiful squares and alleyways that you can easily get lost down.

After that, head to the former town hall for some history or do some shopping in the local boutiques.

While technically not a town, the serene island of Texel has had a rich and turbulent history, which includes a brush with the American Revolution and the location of WWII’s last battlefield .

Red-lighthouse-with-village-in-the-dunes-from-Texel-islands-of-the-netherlands-dutch-islands-wadden-islands

Today, it’s a paradise for hikers , cyclists, horseback riders, artists, and sheep (it even has its own breed, called the Texelaar).

Texel has something for everyone, from historians and nature lovers to sheep and birdwatchers.

Delft is a beautiful town located between Rotterdam and The Hague . It’s your typical Dutch town, with beautiful architecture and lots of little cafés and shops.

It’s the perfect city to visit if you want to spend the afternoon somewhere truly Dutch and sit on the terrace with a coffee or a beer.

things-to-do-in-delft-beautiful-towns-in-the-netherlands

There are also plenty of free things to do in Delft , including strolling through the weekend markets or walking around the parks.

I also recommend checking out Nieuwe Kerk or heading to the botanical garden.

And, in case you didn’t know, Delft is THE place to buy Delft blue porcelain — so do keep your eyes out for some trinkets to take home with you!

Are you eager to venture off the beaten track and explore less touristy destinations? Consider visiting Bunschoten-Spakenburg!

Two neighbouring towns with a buzzing history and culture that you may have never even heard of.

photo-of-harbour-filled-with-boats-in-dutch-city-bunschoten-spakenburg

Spakenburg is the most famous fishing village along the southern area of the former Zuider Zee, which is now broken up into two big lakes, the IJsselmeer and Markermeer.

Bunschoten is a farming village right next door. As time went on, the two villages prospered and grew closer to each other, and they eventually merged in 1965 to become Bunschoten-Spakenburg.

Located close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is always recommended for people who aren’t keen on the hustle and bustle of the big city but still want to enjoy pretty canals and a quintessential Dutch city .

beautiful-towns-in-the-netherlands-haarlem

It’s the perfect place to walk around if you’re after great architecture, windmills, shops, and all things Dutch.

READ MORE | Why I love Haarlem: a local’s guide to the Spaarnestad

Make sure to explore the markets in the giant market square, visit the cathedral (it’s beautiful!), climb a windmill, or check out the array of shops and restaurants.

Gorinchem is the Netherlands’ largest and most beautiful fortified city . It’s located along the Waal River, an extension of the Rhine, in the province of South Holland.

This historic town, together with the village of Woudrichem, Castle Loevestein, and Fort Vuren, form the Vestingdriehoek (The Fortress Triangle).

This was a critical part of the Old and the New Dutch Water Lines that defended Holland for centuries from invaders.

photo-of-de-hoop-corn-mill-and-dalempoort-in-dutch-city-gorinchem

Wander around the harbour and enjoy the flower displays by the water or take the five-kilometre self-guided fortress walk (Vestingwandeling).

The walk takes you over the earthwork ramparts past barracks, artillery sheds, an old tollhouse, the Dalempoort gatehouse, the caponier, two flour mills, and many other fascinating buildings with a military purpose.

Valkenburg, in the southern province of Limburg, is a place rich in history. It’s home to Valkenburg Castle , which offers beautiful ruins that you can go and explore.

Walking around the centre, in general, is also beautiful. It’s definitely one of those forgotten places to visit, and we highly recommend you go!

photo-of-Valkenburg-a-pretty-town-in-the-netherlands

Apart from wandering around and looking at all of the beautiful architecture (check out the train station!), there is a variety of different museums, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Christmas is an especially nice time to visit as they have a Christmas market in Valkenburg caves! It’s a very unique experience.

Exploring Willemstad is quick and easy. You can take a leisurely walk through the streets lined with attractive houses.

Some of the entrances to the front doors are over little wooden bridges crossing a narrow channel of water.

There is a wide choice of restaurants with outdoor terraces under a row of trees in the middle of a divided main street.

photo-of-Willemstad-harbour-on-a-sunny-day-with-boats-moored-and-windmill-in-distance-city-in-netherlands

A walk along the town’s rampart takes about 45 minutes.

Along the way, you’ll encounter several historic remnants, such as a military gunpowder house built by Napoleon when the French occupied the town in the early 19th century.

He liked the fortified town so much that he stockpiled gunpowder there. No fear, it’s empty now, but the building remains.

Not only is Leiden great in every way: in its small quaint streets and abundance of canals, but it’s also the home of DutchReview!

I’m definitely not to be biased here, but Leiden is a beautiful place to visit.

READ MORE | 17 unforgettable things to do in Leiden in 2023

It has the most canals in the Netherlands after Amsterdam, and it’s home to 15 great museums .

We recommend you visit the Leiden markets and the different museums — such as The Museum for Antiquities and the Museum of Ethnology , take a boat trip, shop, or sit on one of the terraces with a biertje .

We absolutely love ‘s-Hertogenbosch, a.k.a. Den Bosch! You’ll find this beautiful place in Noord Brabant.

The city is a mix of old and typically medieval buildings, canals, a beautiful cathedral and also very modern and trendy architecture.

It’s also home to the bulb houses , which have sat there since the 1980s.

photo-of-futuristic-looking-architecture-in-Den-Bosch-the-Netherlands-from-the-1980s

On your next visit, take a boat trip along the canals and enjoy the absence of hoards of tourists that you usually see in Amsterdam.

You can also visit St. John’s Cathedral and take a walk or cycle to take in all of the amazing architecture.

Maastricht is often forgotten, seeing as it’s so far away from the capital.

However, with lots of medieval architecture and plenty to do, this is one city that should definitely be on your list!

city-park-in-maastricht-green-grass-medieval-wall

It’s especially popular with students and is so close to Belgium and Germany that it’s the perfect place to go if you want to hop over the border.

READ MORE | A day trip to Maastricht: what to see, do and eat

Marvel at the gorgeous architecture as you take a walk around the city, visit the flea markets, go to the market square, visit some museums, and drink on the terraces!

Naarden is a small town close to Amsterdam. It’s pretty well known due to those popular pictures showing the shape of the town.

From above, you can see the place is shaped like a star, as the whole town is surrounded by moats.

It looks this way because, historically, it was part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam , making this fortified town even more beautiful and interesting than it was already.

photo-of-the-city-Naarden-in-the-Netherlands-from-above

Apart from taking a drone shot, or maybe not, as the residents may find that a bit annoying at this point, you can check out Vestingmuseum.

It is dedicated to the town’s defence history; visit one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands, just walk around and take in the sites, or go for food and drink in one of the many cafés and restaurants.

The beautiful little town of Hoorn is located in Noord-Holland, near Lake IJsselmeer. Not only is it picturesque, but it’s also close to a lake, sand dunes and the countryside.

photo-of-buildings-in-Hoorn-reflected-over-a-large-body-of-water

This makes Hoorn a popular place to go for water sports — staycation, here we come! Hoorn is great to walk or cycle around, and there are museums, a shopping area, restaurants, and cafés — what more could we want?

Utrecht is a beautiful and typically Dutch city that is often forgotten (Amsterdam and Rotterdam seem to rule the roost).

Once the religious capital of the Netherlands, this quaint, medieval city radiates around the Dom Tower — the tallest church tower in the Netherlands.

photo-of-an-aerial-view-of-utrecht-and-the-dom

With beautiful old houses, bridges, and canals that ring the city, Utrecht is often regarded as a little Amsterdam — just without as many tourists.

There’s no shortage of interesting things to do and see in this historic city.

Roermond is a town in Limburg, located very close to both Germany and Belgium.

It’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting from outside of the Netherlands or if you’re looking to try somewhere new afterwards.

The town is located on the lower Roer on the east bank of the Meuse River — so it’s a beautiful destination to visit for the day.

photo-of-the-castle-of-Roermond-the-Netherlands

If you love to shop, you’re in luck as Roermond has a designer outlet and a variety of popular high-street shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Not only is wandering around the town beautiful, but the place is also a stone’s throw away from the lake districts, offering lots of walks and loads to do.

If water sports are your thing, then this is the place to be!

The Hague is an immensely popular place to be for internationals — to live, work and visit .

Once you’ve gone there, you can see why it’s dubbed a hub for innovation, business, and multiculturalism.

It’s both modern and historical, so it’s a great mix. It’s also home to the government and the International Court of Justice.

READ MORE | 7 things you didn’t know about the Hague

You can walk around the Binnenhof grounds (the Dutch parliament), explore the Peace Palace, visit Scheveningen Pier , check out many different museums, and shop on the large high street.

The small town of Veere has a rich history. Located in the province of Zeeland, it is unique for its strong kinship to Scotland.

No other European town played a more important economic role for Scotland than Veere once did between the 16th and 17th centuries.

photo-of-gothic-church-with-greenery-in-dutch-city-veere

Veere is definitely worth a visit. The centre square may be small, but the atmosphere is soaked with history along with the small streets — a reminder of the town’s glory days.

READ MORE | Organ concerts and vaulted ceilings: 15 churches to visit in the Netherlands

The town’s charming shops offer clothing, culinary delicacies, decorations, and of course, souvenirs.

You may have heard of Alkmaar because of the Alkmaar cheese market .

But Alkmaar isn’t just great because of all of the cheese (even though that definitely is a big bonus) — its historical city centre is filled to the brim with things to do.

photo-of-men-carrying-large-blocks-of-cheese-around-the-market-in-the-netherlands

Walking or biking around the historical centre should definitely be on your to-do list too. There are loads of shops, restaurants, and cafés to keep you occupied on your visit.

READ MORE | 17 Dutch towns with the funniest names

There are also a few museums in Alkmaar (did someone say cheese museum and beer museum?!) that are worth a visit.

Have you visited any of these gorgeous towns? Which Dutch town is your favourite? Tell us in the comments below!

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Aparthotel adagio — have a long stay in luxury (at an affordable price), the 18 most magnificent lakes in the netherlands (near amsterdam and beyond), 19 best day trips from amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide, what do you think, 51 comments.

Leiden is my favourite of all the places I have visited … but there are others that are also well worth considering …. Deventer, Middelburg and Alkmaar come to mind.

Enschede, where my parents met and married and home to my Dutch family and friends

het dorp nederland??

‘S-Hertogenbosch!

I miss Naarden in this list. ☹️

Definitely Leiden,Town from my Birth,Town from my Youth,,,eenmaal een Leienaar,altijd een Leienaar,,!!

Oudewater is also very beautiful! A dark history about witches, canals, beautiful country Side.

Zwolle en Deventer

Hoorn is one of my favorite, small to medium, towns in N. Holland. I am a bit prejudiced because my best friend lives there.

Hey there, for me there are a few more beautiful towns in the Netherlands that you should visit. Or not, so they don’t get crowded… My list includes: Leeuwarden, not only the capital of Friesland but also a bit like a miniature Amsterdam without all the tourists. Groningen Sneek and Bolsward, old Hanse towns with tons of beatiful restored building, churches, town halls, canals Harlingen with it’s port Franeker with the world’s oldest and still funcitioning planetarium Den Helder with the Marine museum Lelystad, not very old but the capital of Flevoland, the “artificial” province, hosting both the aviation museum at the airport and the history museum in Batavia stad plus the wharf and the sailing vessel Batavia Harderwijk, also an old Hanse town with a beautiful and city centre, just walk around and discover small streets and shops

and many more…

And no, I am not Dutch, just a crazy German guy that spends all his free time 600km away from home in the Netherlands. My family adopted that habbit already.

Naarden is my favorite. Vesting museum, City hall, and the “Grote Krrk”, or large church are must-see, as are thevrsmparts, giving the City its shape of a star!

Vergeet Monnickendam niet!

Lelystad? Den Helder? Would be one of the last on my list.

The Netherlands has many beautiful cities and towns and Leiden and Delft are my favorites. But I like to mention Elburg, a town in Gelderland that between 1392 and 1396 was rebuilt after a flood in the form it is seen today, with a moat and a city wall, together with a gridiron street plan. Back in the 70s as student of TU Delft my fiends and I studied the urban plans of that city. The profiles if the streets coincided with the function each street has. A walking tour is the best way to experience the beauty of the town. In 1367 the city was recorded as a member of the Hanseatic League.

I love Maastricht. I used to stay at the old Commerce Hotel and walk to the bars and restaurants in the ally ways.

Den Haag! Beloved town of my birth. Yes, it’s still officially a town!

Dordrecht should definitely be on this list!

I am missing Dordrecht, a beautifull city, with a beautifull Church.

What about Rotterdam (very modern), Breda or Dordrecht?

My father was born in Dordrecht in 1907

Den Bosch, Breda and Heusden in North Brabant are all beautiful historic towns. Also old Hansatown Zwolle in Overijssel is lovely. Edam is a picture perfect little town in North Holland. Alkmaar is also very pretty. From the article I agree that Delft, Haarlem, Giethoorn and Maastricht are all worth a visit.

Ik ben een ras echte Haarlemmer from 1940 en ge-emigreerd in 1963 naar Canada ; spreek nog goed ” hoog Haarlemmer dijks ” .

Very well described. I would also recommend Enkhuizen, in the north. A small fishing town with lots of farming. Having the 14th century cathedral cum lighthouse, Drommedaris. You can see the open air Zwiderzee museum. It’ll be fun! I worked there long back.

I’m from Ens, N.O.P. and also became acquainted with Emmeloord where I have family in both places. However, I was taken to Giethoorn and fell in love with that town. The boat ride was enjoyable.

I can’t believe Utrecht is not mentioned by anyone. Beautiful city.

Yes my laatste stop in Utrecht…toen op vliegtuig naar 🇨🇦 1967)mooie stad Utrecht heb nog family daar .🇳🇱 Love mijn Kleine landje.

Love Netherlands…favourites are Leiden, and Alkmaar.

We were blown away by Giethoorn. Such a beautiful village. We took a boat tour so could see the beautiful house from the water too. Highly recommend.

Hindeloopen, Alkmaar, Hoorn all immediately spring to mind, but there are so many beautiful places in the Netherlands.

I was born in Rouveen ( Gemeente Staphorst) and lived there until I was 12 at which time we moved to Canada, I remember buses full of tourists coming through as it is a very picturesque town, In those days almost everyone wore costumes except for three of us girls whose parents were not farmers. The farmer girls would stand by the roadside holding up their large aprons in which the tourists would throw candies…..we missed out though.I understand much has changed since we left in 1951.

afijn, na alle reacties te hebben gelezen kan ik ook de volgende plaatsen aanraden of aanbevelen: Etten-Leur waar Vincent van Gogh heeft gewoond, Breda Vlissingen, Middelburg, Rotterdam, Hoek van Holland, Den Haag. Ik ben inmiddels heel NL met de trein rond gereisd.

How come no one has mentioned SLUIS by the sea absolutely beautiful,very pretty ,fab restaurants and lovely shops, everyone is in tortoise mode, and only 10 mins away Knokke in Belgium ,also by the sea and lovely, we go there 6 times a year at least from England,should have moved there years ago, and has been our regret!

sluis has a very nice museum

Brielle, Middelburg, Leeuwarden, Nieuwkoop

Yep, Brielle 😊

And what about Gouda??

Fantastische foto’s van Nederlands plaatsen ik mis foto’s van onze plaats waar van we zijn vert naar Engeland en dat is Maassluis met zijn prachtige binnenstad en het mooie winkelcentrum Koningshoek

I would love to explore Valkenburg – though I am confused with its location – is it near Maastricht? Or Near Wassenaar ? Leiden in Zuid Holland? I see both on the map — both have a kasteel nearby… Could someone / the author pls clarify. Thank you

They mean the one near Maastricht in the south of the Netherlands.

Texel isn’t a city, so why is it on this list?

You forgot Nijmegen, the oldest city of The Netherlands

I miss towns from the North!

You’ve missed Dordrecht. The oldest city in Holland and sometimes referred to as the Venecia of Netherlands due to all it’s canals. You’ll find some movies and documentaries are shot in the city due to it’s timeless streets and buildings. You should come and visit!

Giethorn is a beautiful place

I have had the pleasure of visiting all the places on the list and many more. Weesp is my favourtie because I was born there, it’s an old fort city.

Waarom is Dordrecht niet op deze lijst? Het is een van de oudste steden in Nederland.

The old fortified city of Hulst is worth a look. My family except me came from the nearby village of Sint Jansteen so I may be sentimental about it. Visiting Gemeente Hulst , my pleasure every morning was riding all the way around Hulst on top of the old earthworks still surrounding the city. The old church has Bishops buried beneath the floor as far back as 900 so it’s at least that old. And not to forget the old City Molen which once beIonged to a family friend. I do recall tour busses from other countries stopping there so Hulst is not unknown but it’s not touristy in the least.

Bergen beautiful town not present in list

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Best things to do in the Netherlands

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written by Keith Drew

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There’s nowhere quite like the Netherlands , a country always threatened by the turbulent waters of the North Sea, whose people beat back the ocean to reclaim wide, grassy-green polders from the blue-black depths. This country is one of the most urbanized and densely populated nations on earth, but its crowded flatlands still pack in a wide range of the best things to do in the Netherlands.

1. Amsterdam Noord and the Eastern Docklands

2. anne frank huis, amsterdam, 3. van gogh museum, amsterdam, 4. rijksmuseum, 5. den haag (the hague), 6. giethoorn, 7. hoge veluwe national park, 8. delta project, 9. cycling - one of the best things to do in the netherlands for exploring the country, 10. frisian islands, 11. keukenhof gardens.

12. 's-Hertogenbosch

14. Frans Hals Museum, Haarlem

15. southwest friesland, 16. the biesbosch, 17. wadlopen, 19. maastricht, 20. ijsselmeer.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to the Netherlands , your essential guide for visiting the Netherlands .

Travel ideas for Netherlands, created by local experts

8 days / from 2834 USD

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

This trip will bring you the best of two countries: the Netherlands and Belgium. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities. This trip has it all.

9 days / from 3052 USD

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

There’re plenty of things to do in the Netherlands apart from visiting Amsterdam, but it would be a strange trip that missed out on the capital altogether. It’s not all clogs ‘n’ canals, though – head off the tourist track to the eastern docklands or Amsterdam Noord, newly developed and home to some cutting-edge, Modernist architecture.

Amsterdam Noord, easily reachable using a short ferry ride from behind Centraal Station boasts the city’s probably most eye-catching building and best cinema at the EYE Film Institute. Also here is the sprawling former NDSM Shipyard, which has been turned into creative arts and events hub, with a skate park and good bars and restaurants, and A'DAM Toren with the highest observation deck in Amsterdam.

Travelling on a budget? Our guide to free things to do in Amsterdam has a couple of tips on how to spend your time in Amsterdam without compromising your wallet.

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Eye film museum, Adam Tower, Amsterdam © Photix/Shutterstock

A poignant and personal evocation of the Nazi persecution of the Jews. Among the moving exhibits is the bookcase behind which the Frank family and friends hid for two years. A visit begins in the main body of the building with several well-chosen displays setting the historical scene. You then proceed through the premises of what was once the Frank business, before reaching a series of exhibits providing brief biographies.

Filmed interviews with some of the leading characters, including Anne’s friends Hanneli Goslar and Otto Frank, fill out more of the background. There are also displays of the persecution of the Jews – from arrest and deportation through to the concentration camps. Further sections are devoted to Anne as a writer/diarist and the importance of Anne’s diary to other prisoners, most notably Nelson Mandela.

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Anne Frank House, Amsterdam © Anamaria Mejia/Shutterstock

Vincent van Gogh is arguably the most popular, most reproduced and most talked-about of all modern artists, so it’s not surprising that visiting the Van Gogh Museum , comprising a fabulous collection of the artist’s work, is one of the best things to do in the Netherlands.

The museum occupies two modern buildings that back onto the northern edge of Museumplein, with the key paintings housed in an angular building. This part of the museum provides an introduction to the man and his art based on paintings that were mostly inherited from Vincent’s art-dealer brother Theo.

To the rear of Rietveld’s building, connected with it by a glass entrance hall, is the ultramodern annexe, which provides temporary exhibition space. As you might expect, the museum can get very crowded, and the queues can be long. It's best to come early to avoid the crush or book online.

A sign pointing to the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the Netherlands © bmszealand/Shutterstock

A sign pointing to the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, Netherlands © bmszealand/Shutterstock

The Rijksmuseum is without question the country’s foremost art museum, with an extravagant collection of Dutch paintings, as well as a vast hoard of applied art and sculpture. In the last few years, the museum has been thoroughly refurbished and is now equipped with a capacious and singularly impressive entrance area.

The very height of this has interfered with the building’s original floor plan and as a consequence getting from one section to another can be a tad confusing. In the permanent collection, there is some rotation of the paintings, but you can count on seeing all the leading Rembrandts plus a healthy sample of canvases by Steen, Hals, Vermeer and their leading contemporaries.

Where to stay in Amsterdam:

For boutique stays: Hotel Estheréa
For central location: Hotel 717

Find more accommodation options to stay in Amsterdam with our guide to the best area to stay in Amsterdam .

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam © Shutterstock

Where to stay in Den Haag:

For couples: The Collector
For luxury: Hotel Des Indes The Hague

Find more accommodation options to stay in Den Haag

binnenhof-palace-dutch-parliament-buildings-netherlands-shutterstock_1101184187

Binnenhof Palace, Dutch Parliament buildings, Netherlands © Vis-Art/Shutterstock

Giethoorn’s origins are rather odd. No one gave much thought to this marshy, infertile chunk of land until the thirteenth century when the local landowner gifted it to an obscure religious sect. Later, the settlers dug canals to transport the peat and the diggings flooded, thus creating the watery network that has become the number one tourist attraction hereabouts.

Giethoorn is extraordinarily picturesque, its slender brown-green waterways are overseen by lovely thatched cottages, shaded by mature trees and crisscrossed by pretty humpbacked footbridges. The only fly in the idyllic ointment is Giethoorn’s popularity: avoid the centre of the village in the summer, when the place heaves with tour groups.

Where to stay in Giethoorn:

For B&B: Hotel B&B d'Olde Smidse
For quiet and cosy stays: De Aardigeyt

Find more accommodation options to stay in Giethoorn

giethoorn-village-netherlands-shutterstock_625075865

Giethoorn village, Netherlands© NiglayNik/Shutterstock

The extremely popular Nationaal Park De Hoge Veluwe is an expanse of sandy heath, lake, dune and woodland that is crisscrossed by cycle trails and inhabited by wild game, especially deer, which can be observed from a string of hides.

The Rough Guides to Netherlands and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

At the heart of the Nationaal Park de Hoge Veluwe, the Kröller-Müller Museum displays the private art collection of the Kröller-Müllers. It’s one of the country’s finest art museums, comprising a wide cross-section of modern European art from Impressionism to Cubism and beyond.

Hoge Veluwe National Park, Netherlands © Shutterstock

On February 1, 1953, a combination of an exceptionally high spring tide and a powerful northwesterly storm drove the North Sea over the dykes to flood much of Zeeland. The results were catastrophic and the government’s response was immediate and massive.

After patching up the breached dykes, work was begun on the Delta Project, one of the largest engineering schemes the world has ever seen and one of phenomenal complexity and expense. It took thirty years for the Delta Project to be completed.

The smaller, secondary dams – the Veersegat, Haringvliet and Brouwershaven – were built first to protect from high tides as quickly as possible. In 1968, work began on the largest dam, intended to close the Oosterschelde estuary that forms the outlet of the Maas, Waal and Rijn rivers.

flood-barrier-netherlands-shutterstock_386911159

One of the best things to do in the Netherlands, whether you’re a keen cyclist or an idle pedaller, is to travel by bike (fiets). Cycle touring can be a shortcut into Dutch culture and you can reach parts of the country – its beaches, forests and moorland – that might otherwise be (relatively) inaccessible.

The mostly flat landscape makes travelling by bike an almost effortless pursuit, although you can find yourself battling against a headwind or swallowed up in a shoal of cyclists commuting to work.

cyclist-bike-netherlands-shutterstock_183585611

Cycling is one of the best things to do in the Netherlands for exploring cities, towns and countryside © Sander van der Werf/Shutterstock

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 the 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.

beach-dunes-lighthouse-texel-island-netherlands-shutterstock_612215561

If you’re after bulbs, then make a beeline for the bulb growers’ showcase, the Keukenhof Gardens. These gardens are located on the edge of the little town of Lisse, beside the N208 about 15km north of Leiden. The largest flower garden in the world, dating back to 1949, the Keukenhof was designed by a group of prominent bulb growers to convert people to the joys of growing flowers from bulbs in their gardens.

The “kitchen garden” site is the former estate of a fifteenth-century countess, who used to grow herbs and vegetables for her dining table. Several million flowers are on show for their full flowering period, complemented by thousands of square metres of glasshouse holding indoor displays. You could easily spend a whole day here, swooning with the sheer abundance of it all.

keukenhof-park-netherlands-shutterstock_277574795

12. 's-Hertogenbosch

Capital of Noord-Brabant, ’s-Hertogenbosch is a lively town, particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, when its Markt fills with traders from all over the province. Better known as Den Bosch (pronounced “bos”), it merits a day or two’s exploration. Beneath the graceful townhouses of the old city flows the Binnendieze, its gloomy depths spanned by small wooden bridges.

Staggered crossroads, winding streets and the twelfth-century town walls are vestiges of interminable warfare between the Protestants to the north and the Catholics to the south. The town’s history is written into its street and house names – “Corn Bridge”, “The Gun Barrel”, “Painters’ Street” and more. Its most famous son is the fifteenth-century artist Hieronymus Bosch.

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint John Evangelist or the Saint-John Cathedral of the city of ''s-Hertogenbosch' in the province of 'Noord-Brabant', the Netherlands © R. de Bruijn_Photography/Shutterstock

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint John Evangelist or the Saint-John Cathedral of the city of ''s-Hertogenbosch', Netherlands © R. de Bruijn_Photography/Shutterstock

Stuck out in the Waddenzee, Texel (pronounced “tessel”) is the westernmost of the string of islands that band the northern coast of the Netherlands. Overall it’s a flat landscape of green pastureland dotted with chunks of woodland, speckled with small villages and protected by long sea defences. The west coast boasts magnificent stretches of sand that reach from one end of the island to the other.

Behind the beach, a belt of sand dunes widens as it approaches both ends of the island. In the north, it spreads out into two nature reserves – De Muy and De Slufter. The latter incorporates Texel’s finest scenery in a tidal inlet where a deep cove of salt marsh, lagoon and dune has been left beyond the sea defences, exposed to the ocean.

Where to stay at Texel:

For tranquillity and hiking: Boutique Hotel Texel
For rural stays: Nieuw Leven Texel

Find more accommodation options to stay at Texel

Texel Island, Netherlands © Sara Winter/Shutterstock

Haarlem’s biggest draw, the main location of the Frans Hals Museum – Hof, is a five-minute stroll south of the Grote Markt, housed in the almshouse complex where the aged Hals lived out his last destitute years. The collection comprises a handful of prime works by Hals along with an eclectic sample of Dutch paintings from the fifteenth century onwards.

All of them are immaculately presented and explained on the free audioguide or app, which can also be used during the fifteen-minute film presentation.

This tailor-made trip to the best of the Netherlands and Belgium will bring you to the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities. This trip has it all.

Where to stay in Haarlem:

For luxury: Brasss Hotel Suites
For price and quality: Boutique Hotel 't Vosje

Find more accommodation options to stay in Haarlem

frans-hals-museum-haarlem-netherlands-shutterstock_1051004618

Touring the small towns and villages of this region is one of the best things to do in the Netherlands. It shows a whole different side to the country than the more urbanized southwest - it's peaceful and charming in equal measure.

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 province’s flag.

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. Over the centuries the Frisians finessed their skills, extending their settlements using a complex network of dykes. You can still see what’s left of some of the mounds around the area.

Sawing mill de Rat in IJlst in the Dutch province Friesland © jstuij/Shutterstock

The Biesbosch (Reed Forest) is one of the Netherlands’ larger national parks and one of the few remaining freshwater tidal areas in Europe. Located on the border of the provinces of Noord-Brabant and Zuid-Holland, it covers around fifteen square kilometres of river, creek, marsh and reed to the south and east of Dordrecht and divides into two main sections.

The undeveloped heart of the park is the Brabantse Biesbosch, the chunk of land to the south. Almost all the tourist facilities have been carefully confined to the north on a strip just east of Dordrecht, along the park’s perimeter. A wetland habitat, the park offers a perfect breeding ground for many species of birds. Best explored by boat, visiting the park makes one of the best things to do in the Netherlands.

biesbosch-netherlands-shutterstock_690188338

Wadlopen, or mud-flat walking, is one of the most popular things to do in the Netherlands, 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. 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 6 am and 10 am. 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.

A young woman walks across the mudflats of the Waddensea at low tide, Holland Netherlands © corlaffra/Shutterstock

Delft, in between Den Haag and Rotterdam, has the most beguiling of centres, a medley of ancient red-tiled houses set beside tree-lined canals intercepted by the cutest of humpback bridges. It’s no surprise, then, that visiting the town is one of the best things to do in the Netherlands, but most tourists come here for the day. In the evenings, even in the summer, the town can be surprisingly – and mercifully – quiet.

Delft boasts a clutch of handsome old buildings, most notably two fine churches – the Nieuwe Kerk and the Oude Kerk. Here you will also find a fascinating museum, the Prinsenhof , which holds an enjoyable collection of Golden Age paintings. You'll find here the imaginative Vermeercentrum , which celebrates the life and times of Delft’s best-known son, Johannes Vermeer.

Where to stay in Delft:

Best for unique atmosphere: Hotel Johannes Vermeer Delft
Best for charming vibes: Hotel de Koophandel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Delft

delft-city-netherlands-shutterstock_710184700

Maastricht is one of the most vibrant cities in the Netherlands . With its cobbled streets and fashionable boutiques in the old town, contemporary architecture in the Céramique district, a fantastic art fair and excellent cuisine, the city buzzes with excitement and its multilingual, multinational population.

An important stop off on the trading route between Cologne and the North Sea, the town boasted a Temple of Jupiter, whose remains are now on view in a hotel basement. Charlemagne beefed up the city too, though his legacy is ecclesiastical, his two churches representing some of the finest extant Romanesque architecture in the whole of the country.

Where to stay in Maastricht:

For central location: Fitz Roy Urban Hotel
For historical charm: Kruisherenhotel Maastricht

Find more accommodation options to stay in Maastricht

maastricht-netherlands-shutterstock_362951264

This beautiful inland lake, formerly the Zuider Zee, lies at the heart of the Netherlands and represents the country at its watery best, with charming old ports like Hoorn and Enkhuizen and former islands like Urk to explore.

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.

Center of the small atmospheric fishing village Makkum on the Ijsselmeer in the province of Friesland, Netherlands © Jan van der Wolf/Shutterstock

Centre of the small atmospheric fishing village Makkum on the Ijsselmeer in the province of Friesland, Netherlands © Jan van der Wolf/Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to the Netherlands ? Check out The Rough Guide to the Netherlands .

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A former Rough Guides Managing Editor, Keith Drew has written or updated over a dozen Rough Guides, including Costa Rica, Japan and Morocco. As well as writing for The Telegraph, The Guardian and BRITAIN Magazine, among others, he also runs family-travel website Lijoma.com. Follow him @keithdrewtravel on Twitter and @BigTrips4LittleTravellers on Instagram.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is often incorrectly referred to as Holland, and is one of the most vibrant and interesting countries in Europe. Known for its eclectic capital city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands is far more than just canals and museums, and if you venture further afield you will find picture postcard pretty towns as well as dynamic cities like Rotterdam and The Hague.

Due to its relatively small size it is easy to visit the Netherlands fairly quickly and to see a lot of the country in a short space of time. Getting out into the countryside is often one of the highlights of a trip for many, especially if you visit famous areas like the traditional villages that are filled with iconic windmills and tulips. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by bicycle and fortunately much of the Netherlands is flat which means you can easily navigate the landscape and enjoy the great Dutch outdoors.

Here are the best things to do in the Netherlands :

1. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Similar to many other cities that sit over water such as Venice, Amsterdam has a vibrant canal system.

The pretty waterways are one of the best loved attractions in Amsterdam and you can explore the idyllic routes by taking a boat tour or a water taxi that lets you hop around a range of locations.

If you don’t want to take to the water then you can still enjoy the canal sights with a leisurely stroll along the banks.

Book a cruise : Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

2. Visit Zaanse Schans

Those who wish they could travel back in time and visit the Netherlands of the 17th and 18th centuries have come to the right place.

Zaanse Schans is located around 15 kilometers to the north of Amsterdam and is styled as an open-air museum where you can take a stroll around a traditional Dutch village and find out how ancient craftsmen would have worked.

Just some of the sights include a shipyard, a grocery store, a pewter factory, and a range of dainty green wooden houses.

You will also find some graceful windmills although out of the 600 that would have dotted the area in the days of old, only 5 now remain and can be visited by the public.

These include an iconic saw mill as well as an oil mill and you will find fun live demonstrations like a clog making session.

Recommended tour : Zaanse Schans Windmills Half-Day Tour

3. Stroll around the Garden of Europe

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is a riot of color with blooms of every hue as far as the eye can see.

Tulips are the signature flowers of this country and the Garden of Europe just outside of Lisse is the largest public garden anywhere in the world.

Covering 70 acres of land, you will find gorgeous flower exhibitions as well as restaurants and a wide variety of flora including daffodils hyacinths, and crocuses.

Book online : Keukenhof Gardens Tour

4. Admire Grote Kerk

Grote Kerk is found in The Hague and is a large church that is built from red brick in Gothic style.

The original building here would have been built in the 13th century although it was razed to the ground in 1539 and rebuilt in the present structure.

The church has an illustrious history as the spot where many members of the Dutch royal family where baptized including King Willem-Alexander who had his christening here.

Things to look out for at the church include the dominating bell tower which is the highest in Holland and contains 51 bells as well as the ornate wooden pulpit and the huge pipe organ.

5. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch National Museum located in Amsterdam and is filled with an amazing collection of art and antiques which date from 1809. The building houses over 7 million items and has more than 5,000 paintings that sprawl over 250 rooms.

There is a library here with 35,000 books and you can see some of the most impressive paintings in the world created by the ‘Old Masters’. Much of the museum focuses on traditional Dutch artifacts like ancient handicrafts and sculptures from the medieval period but you will also find exciting modern art.

Make sure you leave ample time to see everything as you can easily spend a full day here exploring every nook and cranny.

Get tickets : Rijksmuseum Entrance Ticket

6. Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Netherlands is often thought of as a small country primarily made up of small towns and cities but actually it has some wonderful national parks.

The largest and most famous of these is the Hoge Veluwe National Park which sits in between Apeldoorn and Arnhem.

It sprawls over an areas of 13,800 acres and is perfect if you are looking for an easy day trip.

The park is covered in woodland and features other quirky exhibits such as a sculpture park, and just some of the residents you will find in the park include red and roe deer.

Other spots include graceful dunes that are covered with heath and if you like bird watching then this is the place to spot a whole range of species.

7. Visit the Anne Frank Museum

The Anne Frank Museum is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam and makes for an extremely moving visit.

The building is the former home of Anne Frank who hid from the Nazis here during the Second World War.

Anne Frank died two months before the war ended but her diary that she wrote in the home was found and went on to become one of the most important books in the world.

The home has been restored although the hiding place in which the family lived is much as it would have been when Anne Frank lived here.

This is absolutely not to be missed if you are in Amsterdam and offers a poignant and personal view on this well known story.

Related tour : Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour

8. Enjoy the village of Marken

The little village of Marken is known for being one of the prettiest spots in the Netherlands, particularly thanks to its strategic location on the Ijsselmeer Lake.

Crowds of visitors flock to the town every year to take in its picture-postcard worthy attractions such as traditional painted wooden houses as well as fishing boats.

In the summer months there are festivals held here where the residents dress in period garb and you can see traditional crafts like clog making taking place.

Included in : Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken Tour

9. Have fun at Efteling

Efteling is the biggest amusement park in the Netherlands and is located at Kaatsheuvel.

The park is divided up into different zones that are known as realms and each one focuses on a different ancient myth or legend.

Efteling has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest themes parks in the world having first opened its doors in 1952 and has been entertaining visitors ever since with its fast rides and lush gardens.

Just some of the highlights here include rides like the Joris en de Draak or the George and the Dragon as well as The Flying Dutchman and the Python.

There are also other areas such as the Raveleijn which is a magical world with a nightly performance that tells the story of 5 siblings who battle and defeat an evil monster.

Book online : Efteling Theme Park Resort Admission Ticket

10. Take a trip to Madurodam

If you want to see the whole of the Netherlands but don’t have time then travel to Madurodam in The Hague.

Here you will find a mini version of the Netherlands on a 1:25 scale and you can see all the county’s top destinations including cute windmills, main landmarks, and decorative features like bridges.

This model city even includes its own harbor as well as a railway system and an airport.

Book online : Madurodam Miniature Park Entrance Ticket

11. Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk

Enjoying a scenic location on the River Noord and nestled between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the village of Kinderdijk which means ‘Children’s Dike’ in Dutch.

The main reason to come here is to take in the beautiful windmills that date from the 18th century and this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are 19 windmills here that date from 1722-1761 and this is the largest group of these structures anywhere in the Netherlands.

You can visit from April to October and there are designated times throughout the year when the sails of the windmills spin and you can see them in all their glory.

12. Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is an ode to one of the greatest artists ever to have lived.

In addition to that, the Van Gogh Museum is regularly voted one of the best art museums in the world, so art-lovers should make sure not to miss it off the itinerary.

An impressive 1.5 million visitors make their way here each year and the museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh pieces in the world.

To that end you will find 200 beautiful paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters that give you a unique insight into the life of the artist.

Fast Entry : Van Gogh Museum Ticket

13. Have a beer at the Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience in Amsterdam is the place to come if you want to learn all about how this famous beer evolved.

The experience takes place in an old Heineken brewery and you can learn about the Heineken family as well as see the actual brewing process that is used to make the beer.

This starts from the kind of water used all the way through to the bottling process and you can also see classic examples of the iconic Heineken logo and see how it has changed over the years.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can of course also sample this famous brew and end the trip with a tasting session.

14. Explore Mauritshuis

Mauritshuis, located in The Hague, is one of the premium art galleries in the Netherlands and is known for its vast collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings.

The building itself is a work of art and dates from the 17th century and is nestled between Hofvijver Lake and the parliament buildings.

Filled with over 800 works of art, this is one of the smaller museums in terms of size but it has some of the most iconic works in the world such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring which was created by Johannes Vermeer.

15. Visit Historic Valkenburg

If you like history then make sure not to miss Valkenburg which lies in the beautiful Geul Valley.

The town is the proud owner of the only hilltop castle in the Netherlands which dates from the 12th century.

The castle sits atop Dwingelrots or Castle Rock and you can also take in the neighboring 14th century basilica called St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica.

As well as its ancient ruins the town is also famous for its spas and caves as well as its Christmas Market which opens from November to December in the beautifully named Velvet Caves.

16. Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo in Amsterdam first opened its gates in 1838 making it the oldest zoo in the Netherlands.

It sprawls across more than 35 acres and has 900 different species of animals many of which are housed in ornate and spacious compounds that were designed in the 19th century.

There is also an aquarium section that was built in 1882 that features diverse species like sharks, eel, and colorful tropical fish.

Make sure to look out for the tray bikes that circle the zoo selling traditional Dutch pancakes called bitterballen.

Get tickets : ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo: Entry Ticket

17. Sample some cheese in Edam

Edam cheese is famous the world over for its red hued rind and signature round shape.

Many people won’t realize however that Edam is actually not just the name of the cheese but also the place it comes from which is the pretty town of Edam.

The town is located on the water and dates back to the 12th century and has an array of cheese related sites to enjoy.

Don’t be surprised if Edam cheese looks a little different here, as it is actually sold with a yellow rind rather than a red one.

Some of the signature attractions for cheese lovers here include a large cheese market and a famous cheese-weighing hall.

18. Explore Zeeland’s Dikes

The area of Zeeland sits on the Schlede, Maas, and Rhine rivers and is covered in little islands and coves.

Most of the area sits below sea level, and for this reason needs to use dikes to guard against flooding.

The main dike project here is called Delta Works which is a series of cutting-edge dam systems which control all the water entering the area from the neighboring North Sea.

In case you are having troubling understanding the scale of the dikes here, Delta Works has been described as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

19. Visit Ridderzaal

The Hall of Knights, also known as Ridderzaal in Dutch, is located in The Hague and is part of a court complex that dates from the medieval period.

Dating from the 13th century the hall backs on to a huge courtyard covered in cobbles and this is considered to be one of the centers of Dutch politics in the modern day as this is also the spot where the Opening of Parliament ceremony is conducted every year.

Now you can also visit the Hall of Knights and take a guided tour of one of the most important buildings in Dutch history.

20. Journey to Volendam

Situated in the north of the Netherlands is Volendam which makes a great day trip if you are also visiting neighboring Amsterdam.

A small fishing village, Volendam is full of traditional Dutch delights such as wooden houses, clogs, and scenic landscapes.

Volendam is so pretty that is was painted by greats like Renoir and Picasso and it has a dainty harbor that backs on to fisherman’s houses and more canals.

21. Enjoy the Houseboat Museum

The Houseboat Museum is one of the quirkiest museums in all of Amsterdam and sits on the water on one of its pretty canals.

The boat is called Hendrika Maria and is furnished to give you a glimpse of how people have lived on these houseboats over the years.

There are also displays of how life on houseboats has changed and pictures of the canals as they would have been in the days of old.

22. Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam

Oude Haven is the Old Harbor in Rotterdam which happens to be the oldest port in the Netherlands having first started operations in 1350. Here you will find a huge number of attractions such as charming eateries and cafes as well as a selection of ancient sailing ships that give a nod to maritime history of this city.

One of the other iconic structures located on the harbor is Het Witte Huis or the White House which has the claim to fame of having been the first skyscraper in Europe.

23. Travel to the town of Delft

The cute town of Delft is nestled in between The Hague and Rotterdam and makes a great day trip.

Some of the main sights here include the Town Hall as well as the famous Nieuwe Kerk or New Church which has a tall tower that you can climb and look out over Rotterdam and The Hague.

The church also houses a well known royal burial ground where the remains of Prince William of Orange are interred.

Other attractions include the Technology Museum and the Markt which is the main traditional market that opens every Thursday.

24. Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum

Venustempel Sex Museum in Amsterdam has the claim to fame of having been the first sex museum in the world.

The museum is located in a building that dates from the 17th century and has a wide display of sex related memorabilia.

Just some of this includes an array of erotic art work as well as photographs, sculptures, and other oddities like chastity belts.

The aim of the museum is to tell the story of how sexuality has evolved over the years and is a quirky stop off on a trip to Amsterdam.

25. Explore Kasteel De Haar

Close to the city of Utrecht sits Kasteel De Haar which is actually the largest fortification in the Netherlands.

The big draw here is the stunning castle which sprawls across a 250 acre park and originally would have dated from the 14th century.

The renovated version that now stands was built in 1892 and you will find a wide collection of paintings, textiles, antiques, and furniture.

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands:

Explore the Canals of Amsterdam
Visit Zaanse Schans
Stroll around the Garden of Europe
Admire Grote Kerk
Visit the Rijksmuseum
Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park
Visit the Anne Frank Museum
Enjoy the village of Marken
Have fun at Efteling
Take a trip to Madurodam
Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk
Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum
Have a beer at the Heineken Experience
Explore Mauritshuis
Visit Historic Valkenburg
Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo
Sample some cheese in Edam
Explore Zeeland’s Dikes
Visit Ridderzaal
Journey to Volendam
Enjoy the Houseboat Museum
Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam
Travel to the town of Delft
Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum
Explore Kasteel De Haar

What you need to know before you go to the Netherlands

May 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Everywhere in the Netherlands is easily accessible, like Rotterdam with its mix of architecture © Victor Maschek / Shutterstock

With its beautiful cities and countryside of polders, dykes, windmills and canals connected by superb, sustainable infrastructure, the Netherlands is one of the easiest places to travel. As a visitor, you won’t find too many potential pitfalls, but there are still a few things to be aware of (starting with getting its name right!). Having written about this charming and fascinating country for almost two decades (and experienced it over a lifetime), these are my key tips for a smooth trip.

1. It’s the Netherlands (not Holland)

You’ll come across plenty of references to “Holland” as a synonym for the entire country (it’s only recently started transitioning out of use by the Dutch tourism authority ) but in fact Holland refers to just two of the country’s 12 provinces: Noord-Holland (North Holland; Haarlem is the provincial capital, while Amsterdam is the largest city and national capital) and Zuid-Holland (South Holland; Den Haag is the provincial capital and seat of government and royalty, with Rotterdam the largest city). The rest of the country is not Holland, and the nation as a whole is the Netherlands.

You might also hear references to the Randstad, the conurbation that takes in the Netherlands’ biggest cities in Noord-Holland, Zuid-Holland and Utrecht, which forms the country’s economic engine and is home to almost half of its population.

The Pllek cafe at NDSM wharf in Amsterdam's hipster area in Amsterdam Noord, Netherlands.

2. Remember there’s more to Amsterdam than the city center – and more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam

Amsterdam is where most people arrive, and for many it’s their only destination. With visitor numbers skyrocketing, the Dutch capital is balancing overtourism through measures such as raising tourist taxes; restricting short-stay apartment rental and house swaps; capping the number of annual overnight visitors; halving river cruises; and closing its ocean-liner cruise ship port completely. It is also deterring raucous, hard-partying “nuisance tourists” (by banning organized pub crawls and curbing central bar and club opening hours) while still welcoming respectful visitors.

You don’t have to go far from the center to discover fantastic, often under-the-radar neighborhoods, such as Amsterdam’s West, Oost (East) and Noord (North), where you’ll get a deeper insight into local life. Positive-impact tours run by Tours That Matter are also a great way to get off the tourist track.

Added to that, the Netherlands’ compact size and excellent transport puts the country’s grand cities, classic landscapes and exhilarating things to do (and invariably cheaper prices) right on Amsterdam’s doorstep.

3. Decide how long to spend in the Netherlands

Crossing the country takes just a few hours but there’s a lot to see. A week will give you time to experience Amsterdam and surrounding destinations (such as Haarlem , Utrecht , Leiden , Delft , Den Haag and Rotterdam ). The longer you have, the more you can explore all corners of the country, from the Frisian coast and islands to superbly preserved Hanseatic cities such as Deventer and Zwolle, and the hilly southeast around vibrant Maastricht .

When you’re putting together your itinerary, you can get a good sense of travel times on journey planner 9292.nl , which calculates the most efficient public transport routes throughout the country. Traveling by bike, using the country’s extensive system of short- and long-distance cycleways, is also entirely viable and an enjoyable way to get around. Cycling is part of the Dutch DNA (locals ride literally everywhere: work, dinner, the opera, you name it), so you’ll be in good company.

Discover the best ways to get around the Netherlands

Visitors in modern main hall in the new atrium of the Rijksmuseum. Entrance to museum, massive ceiling decorations and people in dutch national museum.

4. Book museum time-slots in advance to avoid missing out

As the home turf of artistic masters from Rembrandt and Vermeer to Van Gogh, Mondrian and MC Escher, the Netherlands brims with incredible art, and hundreds of museums also showcase the country’s rich history, traditions and diversity. Increasingly, museum entry requires you to reserve a time slot online. These can quickly fill up in advance, so book them a few weeks ahead (even earlier for the Anne Frank Huis ), so you have a framework for the rest of your schedule.

5. Lock in accommodation and popular restaurant bookings ahead of time, too

Especially if you’re traveling in the high summer season or during festivals, events and holidays, you should make sure you have your accommodation booked ahead. High-end and/or popular restaurants should also be reserved well in advance.

Netherlands, Hillegom, Tulip field in morning mist. Woman cycling

6. Pack practically and plan for fickle weather

There’s a reason windmills are a fixture across the flat landscape: it can get distinctly breezy here (the uniquely Dutch verb uitwaaien means “to clear one's head by taking a walk outdoors in the windy fresh air”), and the maritime climate also means plenty of rain, so pack waterproofs, no matter the season. You’ll also be glad of comfortable, sturdy footwear for walking on all terrains, a slimline daypack and layers you can quickly put on if things turn chilly. Warm clothes, gloves and a woolen hat are essential in winter.

The Dutch cycling culture means fashion is not only stylish (Dutch design is big here) but practical (such as flat soles and clothing that won’t get caught in bicycle spokes).

Consider traveling to the Netherlands outside the summer peak: here’s the best time to go

7. Anticipate what to expect at your accommodation

Accommodation in the Netherlands can spring a few surprises on the uninitiated. In older buildings especially, there might not be air conditioning and elevators might be tiny or non-existent (and Dutch staircases can be precipitously steep, often more akin to ships’ ladders). Attitudes tend to be quite liberal and straightforward, and bathrooms can be more open-plan than you might expect and/or have limited screening (yes, often even the toilets). If modesty is important to you, this is something you’ll want to look into when booking; once you check in, alternative rooms might not be available.

To let natural light in, hotels and residential homes and apartments often have large windows without blinds or drapes, but in a small, densely populated country, people respect each other’s privacy.

Gin tasting at De Admiraal in Amsterdam where a barman pours gin into tasting glasses.

8. Get to grips with Dutch communication

The Dutch are clear, concise communicators, favoring directness over small talk. To visitors, this might come across as bracingly frank but it’s simply intended to be pragmatic, open and honest. Punctuality is expected in formal and social situations.

Excellent, fluent English is widely spoken, but a few words of Dutch can help grease the wheels of communication, such as goedemorgen/goedendag/goedenavond (good morning/day/evening), tot ziens (goodbye), alstublieft/alsjeblieft (formal/informal for please), and dank u wel/dank je wel (formal/informal for thank you). Toast a frothy beer or jenever (aka genever; Dutch gin) with proost (cheers) while making eye contact with everyone you’re toasting. Dutch drinking culture is social, revolving around food and friends, starting with borrel (“drinks”) before uitgaan (going out).

9. Embrace sustainability

In a country lying mostly below sea level, environmental concerns have long been top of mind, and the Dutch are blazing the way on sustainability. The Netherlands is aiming for a circular economy by 2050 , reusing, repairing and recycling renewable materials to eliminate waste, and rapid progress is being achieved across day-to-day life. Everything you can do as a visitor (using eco-friendly transport, minimizing energy consumption, packaging and food waste, dining on local and organic produce and shopping sustainably) will help.

10. Understand tipping etiquette

In the Netherlands, remuneration in hospitality professions includes service, so staff here aren’t working for tips. That being said, many people do tip moderately (up to around 10%) for excellent service, especially in restaurants and bars where drinks are brought to the table.

11. Carry both cards and cash

Contactless cards and app-based ”smart wallet” digital payments are becoming increasingly common (such as the public transport system), and many businesses such as cafes, restaurants and shops (even some supermarkets) in larger cities especially are entirely cashless. On the flipside, many traditional establishments don’t take cards and only accept cash. It’s handy to have a mix of cash and cards to cover your bases.

A woman rides a cargo bike with children in Amsterdam

12. Beware of bike lanes

Bike-lane traffic can move much faster, and in much higher volumes, than you might expect. Along with speedy cyclists, beware of motorized electric bikes and larger cargo bikes. As a pedestrian, be vigilant when crossing the road. Wandering into a bike lane without looking in both directions can cause serious accidents. Drivers should be extra mindful.

If you’re joining the locals and cycling yourself, watch out for other cyclists and oblivious pedestrians as well as vehicles, and ring your bicycle bell as a warning as often as necessary. Cross tram tracks at a sharp angle to avoid your wheels getting stuck. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with the rules of participating in Dutch traffic .

Save this guide to the best cycling routes in the Netherlands

13. Take care on and around canals

The Netherlands’ picturesque waterways in its cities, towns and countryside are rarely if ever fenced or protected by barriers. Keep an eye out, especially if you’re traveling with young children. If you’re renting a boat to explore (one of the best things you can do in the Netherlands), ensure life jackets are provided for all passengers, including for kids.

14. Drink the tap water freely

Tap water is high quality and safe to drink throughout the Netherlands (any exceptions will be clearly indicated).

15. Don’t be alarmed by the signal testing of sirens (but do take them seriously in an emergency)

If you’re here at noon on the first Monday of the month (public holidays excepted), you’ll hear the Netherlands’ public warning sirens sound for an uninterrupted one minute and 26 seconds, when they’re simultaneously tested across the country. If you hear them at any other time, you should assume it’s an emergency (such as a fire or flood) and follow local instructions.

16. Stay safe and know how to find help if you need it

The Netherlands is an extremely safe country, but you should take the usual precautions in big cities, and watch out for pickpockets in areas where tourists congregate (such as main railway stations). Protect against bicycle theft by parking in secure bike-parking stations where possible, and always use two locks (one should be attached to a fixed structure like a bike rack).

For a minor illness or injury, an apotheek (pharmacy) can provide advice and sell over-the-counter medication, and advise where to get more specialized help.

It’s important to be aware that cannabis is illegal in the Netherlands, and while small quantities (up to 5g) are generally tolerated by authorities, it’s policed differently by municipalities across the country, and some areas enforce cannabis-smoking bans in public places. (Government policies are also apt to change.) Never buy any drugs on the streets – fatalities can and do occur.

In a serious emergency, contact the police, fire and ambulance services by dialing 112. If things do go wrong during your trip, it will help to have easily accessed back-up copies of your travel insurance policy.

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10 Most Beautiful Cities of the Netherlands

Monday, May 27, 2024, Boya, Linde

A city trip is a fantastic way to explore a country and discover its hidden gems. The Netherlands boasts many beautiful cities, but which one should you visit? Here’s a guide to the top 10 most picturesque cities and historical places in Holland to help you plan your next weekend getaway.

1 - Middelburg

Middelburg, located in the beautiful province of Zeeland, is a city full of unique and historic houses. Despite the extensive damage from World War II, some remarkable buildings have been preserved, such as the impressive abbey complex, which includes three churches, and the 86.5-meter-high Lange Jan Abbey Tower. Middelburg welcomes you with open arms, whether you're there for a fascinating history lesson or simply to enjoy the city's unique charm.

Book a hotel room in Middelburg.

2 - Maastricht

Situated in the south of the Netherlands, Maastricht is a city rich in history and character, thanks to its Roman heritage. A highlight is the St. Pietersberg Caves, a labyrinth with over 20,000 passages. The city's warm hospitality is reflected in its numerous cafes and cozy terraces, perfect for enjoying a coffee or tea while soaking in the local ambiance.

Take a look at our atmospheric hotel near Maastricht.

Famous for its Delft Blue pottery, Delft is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. Its canals, historic buildings, and bustling squares are a treat to explore. Don't miss the chance to visit the Technical University of Delft, with its roots dating back to 1842, and the TU Delft Science Centre for a unique experience.

Book an overnight stay near Delft.

4 - Rotterdam

Known for its modern architecture, Rotterdam stands out with bold structures like the Cube Houses, the Market Hall, and Rotterdam Central Station. Home to the largest port in Europe, covering over 12,600 hectares, Rotterdam is a city like no other.

Take a look at our luxury boutique hotel in Rotterdam.

5 - Haarlem

Haarlem is steeped in cultural heritage and historical significance. Stroll through its beautiful courtyards, such as the Hofje van Guurtje de Waal and the Hofje van Noblet. The narrow streets, canals, and old churches add to the city's charm.

6 - Utrecht

While Utrecht is known as a student city, it also offers stunning highlights like its many canals and the Dom Tower with its associated church. The historic city center is a delight to walk through, with plenty of museums and historic buildings to explore, including the Rietveld Schröder House.

Book a hotel room near Utrecht

7 - Groningen

Groningen features beautiful courtyards and the impressive Hoofdstation with its artistically decorated tiles and remarkable acoustics. The city's highest building, the Martinitoren, and the scenic Noorderplantsoen park with its ponds and fountains are must-see attractions.

Take a look at or hotel near Groningen.

8 - ’s-Hertogenbosch

Also known as Den Bosch, this city is renowned for its stunning St. John's Cathedral and museum. The lively markets and cafes on the Bossche Markt are perfect for experiencing the local atmosphere.

Book your stay in Den Bosch.

9 - Den Haag

The third-largest city in the Netherlands, The Hague, is known for its political significance and medieval architecture at the Binnenhof. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the Haagse Bos or Westbroekpark with its rose garden. The nearby Scheveningen beach is ideal for a summer visit or a brisk autumn walk.

Take a look at our luxurious hotel near Den Haag.

10 - Arnhem

Arnhem is known for its beautiful green surroundings, like Park Sonsbeek, where you can walk among ponds, forests, and meadows. The city's cultural attractions include theaters, museums, and art galleries, along with charming streets, old churches, and historic buildings.

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The Netherlands is full of gems, and a city trip here is well worth it. Which city will you visit next?

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Alternative to Amsterdam: Beautiful cities in the Netherlands

Posted: June 9, 2023 | Last updated: June 9, 2023

There are some beautiful pearls in the Netherlands that not everyone has on their radar.

<p>The city of Utrecht is located in the center of the country and impresses with a medieval old town. Similar to Amsterdam, the town is crossed by several canals. A 14th century bell tower is a landmark of the city and offers a great view.</p>

The city of Utrecht is located in the center of the country and impresses with a medieval old town. Similar to Amsterdam, the town is crossed by several canals. A 14th century bell tower is a landmark of the city and offers a great view.

<p>Groningen is often called Amsterdam's little sister. The city is located in the north of the country, near the Wadden Sea. Thanks to the many students, a hip restaurant and art scene has developed. The Lauwersmeer National Park is also just a stone's throw away.</p>

Groningen is often called Amsterdam's little sister. The city is located in the north of the country, near the Wadden Sea. Thanks to the many students, a hip restaurant and art scene has developed. The Lauwersmeer National Park is also just a stone's throw away.

<p>Haarlem also has a historic center, and the beach is only a few steps away. Canals and windmills exude a special charm. Haarlem is only 20 kilometers away from Amsterdam, yet not many tourists get lost there.</p>

Haarlem also has a historic center, and the beach is only a few steps away. Canals and windmills exude a special charm. Haarlem is only 20 kilometers away from Amsterdam, yet not many tourists get lost there.

<p>The church Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is one of the most important sights of the city of Breda. An extensive shopping tour, a delicious dinner in a trendy restaurant or a break in a small street café? Everything is possible. There is also a castle to visit.</p>

The church Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk is one of the most important sights of the city of Breda. An extensive shopping tour, a delicious dinner in a trendy restaurant or a break in a small street café? Everything is possible. There is also a castle to visit.

<p>Within the old city walls of Amersfoort, the typical water canals run through the center of the town. A city gate from the 14th century can still be visited today. A weekly market is held regularly on the largest square, offering flowers, cheese and more.</p>

Within the old city walls of Amersfoort, the typical water canals run through the center of the town. A city gate from the 14th century can still be visited today. A weekly market is held regularly on the largest square, offering flowers, cheese and more.

<p>In the extreme south of the Netherlands lies Maastricht. The university town is populated mostly by young people, which is why there are many small cafes, restaurants and cute boutiques. Stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere.</p>

In the extreme south of the Netherlands lies Maastricht. The university town is populated mostly by young people, which is why there are many small cafes, restaurants and cute boutiques. Stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere.

<p>Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and a true cultural stronghold. The Erasmus Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge, or the 85-meter-high Euromast observation tower are a must-see. For nature lovers, the city zoo is an ideal destination, also for families.</p>

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and a true cultural stronghold. The Erasmus Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge, or the 85-meter-high Euromast observation tower are a must-see. For nature lovers, the city zoo is an ideal destination, also for families.

<p>The birthplace of the famous painter Rembrandt is also worth a visit. Leiden, like almost every Dutch city, has canals and bridges. On the castle Burcht van Leiden there is a great view over the city - the entrance is free.</p>

The birthplace of the famous painter Rembrandt is also worth a visit. Leiden, like almost every Dutch city, has canals and bridges. On the castle Burcht van Leiden there is a great view over the city - the entrance is free.

<p>Zwolle is a Hanseatic city that scores with a medieval center. Only one city gate of the former fortification remains. In July, there is a lot going on every year, because then the Blauwvingerdagen takes place. 450 stalls attract visitors to the market with regional products.</p>

Zwolle is a Hanseatic city that scores with a medieval center. Only one city gate of the former fortification remains. In July, there is a lot going on every year, because then the Blauwvingerdagen takes place. 450 stalls attract visitors to the market with regional products.

<p>Nijmege is hidden between the rivers Rhine, Maas and Waal. The Romans discovered this region for themselves a good 2,000 years ago. This makes Nijmege the oldest city in the Netherlands. When the many fruit trees blossom in spring, it is especially beautiful there.</p>

Nijmege is hidden between the rivers Rhine, Maas and Waal. The Romans discovered this region for themselves a good 2,000 years ago. This makes Nijmege the oldest city in the Netherlands. When the many fruit trees blossom in spring, it is especially beautiful there.

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7 Places Americans Can Go Without A Visa This Summer

Enjoy a summer vacation in these places without the need for a visa with a US passport, which is one of the strongest in the world.

Americans have the luxury of visa-free travel to many countries, including popular European destinations.
US citizens can explore iconic cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam this summer without any visa hassle.
From the futuristic city of Tokyo, Japan, to beach vibes in Tulum, Mexico, Americans can enjoy diverse summer getaways without a visa.

Whether US citizens' dream vacation is in a new country or continent, summer is the time to use their vacation days. Indeed, there are benefits to being American. They can go to many countries without worrying because the US passport’s strength is among the most robust in the world.

From beach destinations where Americans don't need a visa to popular European cities, Americans are granted visa-free travel to many countries , including most of Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Out of them all, these destinations Americans can go to without a visa this summer are indeed very tempting!

You Can Live Abroad In These Three Tropical Destinations Visa-Free For Six Months

7 paris, france, cost of travel per week: $1,742.

US travelers are often drawn to France's alluring City of Light, known for renowned landmarks like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, as well as its distinct charm. Perhaps best of all, Americans are granted a 90-day stay without a visa in France, perfect for exploring the country and its iconic capital.

Paris' ageless beauty is attributed to its hip retail areas, charming cafés, and Haussmann buildings . It is always an excellent idea to visit Paris since US citizens are likely to find something new with every trip, which is the city's greatest advantage.

The finest ways to see France's vibrant capital are to meander aimlessly around its quaint cobblestone alleys, embark on a walking tour to discover its secrets, visit exciting art exhibits like the Atelier des Lumières , or indulge at the newest eateries and pastry shops. US citizens can explore the enchanting streets and check off all the top landmarks in Paris during the summer without the need for a visa.

6 London, England

Cost of travel per week: $1,665.

The United Kingdom is generous to American citizens when it comes to entry and staying; US passport holders can stay up to six months without a visa! That's more than enough time to discover the country, especially the vibrant British capital.

London is a wonderful destination for Americans seeking summer adventures without the need for a visa. US citizens can spend days exploring unique neighborhoods, housing a variety of historical sites and contemporary attractions. For first-time visitors, guided tours passing through popular locations like the British Museum, Buckingham Palace , Borough Market , the Tower of London, and the Tate Modern art gallery are ideal.

Following the tour, indulging in a traditional afternoon tea or visiting a neighborhood pub for a Sunday roast is recommended. Once the main attractions are covered, leisurely strolls through the elegant avenues of Mayfair or Chelsea, or enjoying the scenic beauty of one of London's 3,000 parks , offer delightful experiences.

5 Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cost of travel per week: $1,309.

The Netherlands provides 90 days of visa-free travel for Americans, giving tourists tons of time to enjoy the country. A favorite is the nation's capital; Amsterdam is home to renowned museums, tulips, and streets bordered by canals, coffee shops, and upscale retailers. Americans can spend their summer days here shopping in The Nine Streets neighborhood , unwinding at Vondelpark, and admiring the works of Vincent van Gogh.

Be sure to indulge in some Dutch fries or herring to really experience Amsterdam's street food culture and tuck into sweet treats like stroopwafels. Alternatively, US travelers may rent a bicycle and explore Amsterdam like the Dutch do . For Americans, the Netherlands can be visited for short stays (usually up to 90 days) without needing a visa.

7 Best Caribbean Islands To Visit In Summer 2024

4 barcelona, spain, cost of travel per week: $1,167.

Spain grants Americans 90 days of visa-free travel on entry, giving them plenty of time to discover its popular cities and hidden gems, especially Barcelona. This Spanish city is a visual feast; tourists can explore Park Güell, where Antoni Gaudí's fanciful creations are on display, take pictures of the elaborate Basilica de la Sagrada Família, and stroll past medieval buildings in the Barri Gòtic .

On a beautiful summer's day, Barceloneta Beach and Parc de la Ciutadella are great spots to pass the time before exploring the pubs and restaurants along Las Ramblas , which come alive at all hours of the night. Plus, travelers can trek to Tibidabo or the Bunkers del Carmel for a bird's-eye view of Barcelona. Similar to other Schengen area countries, Spain does not require a visa from US citizens for visits.

3 Tokyo, Japan

Cost of travel per week: $1,098.

Yes, Americans can visit Japan without a visa; the country gives US passport holders 90 days of visa-free days, which is enough time to enjoy much of what the country has to offer, especially Tokyo, one of the most amazing summer destinations outside the United States.

Towering buildings, neon lights, and stunning temples characterize this contemporary Japanese city, which seamlessly blends the sparkle and splendor of the modern world with the genuine cultures and traditions of Japan.

Visitors can savor traditional celebrations and fireworks, indulge in shaved ice, grab drinks with friends at a rooftop beer garden or a traditional izakaya, explore shaded parks, or unwind in the city's top-notch museums, indoor activities, and department stores.

7 Countries Americans Can't Travel To

2 tulum, mexico, cost of travel per week: $836.

Mexico generously gives Americans 180 days visa-free, and US travelers seeking an affordable, Bohemian beach vacation can opt for Tulum this summer, which is an excellent choice. Located nearly 80 miles southwest of Cancún, this easily accessible Mexican hotspot has several sandy, palm-lined beaches, including the well-known Playa Paraíso.

Beyond its coastline, Tulum offers numerous attractions, ranging from intriguing Mayan ruins to azure swimming holes known as cenotes. Tulum's true charm lies in its scenery, which features posh boutique hotels, hip outdoor eateries, and yoga pavilions shaded by the jungle. Additionally, US travelers can explore stylish stores and indulge in matcha by riding their bikes around Beach Road .

1 Bali, Indonesia

Cost of travel per week: $516.

Indonesia gives Americans 30 days of visa-free stay upon entry, which is more than enough time to discover the beautiful beaches and serene temples of this verdant Indonesian paradise. The best time to visit Indonesia, one of the more far-flung places Americans can visit without a visa, is between April and October to avoid the region's notoriously rainy wet season.

If travelers want to venture away from beaches, they can visit the settlement of Kintamani , which is home to a sizable lake and a tall, active volcano. Tourists can also take a swing on one of Bali's numerous swings to soar above rice terraces and rainforests if they seek an adrenaline rush. Meanwhile, culinary enthusiasts may partake in a Balinese cooking lesson to prepare some nasi goreng.

The top 10 best cities in the world for retirees

For many retirees, booking in some travel time is top of the list of what's next.

But which places are the best to visit?

A new study by insurance site Paying Too Much has looked at cities from all over the globe to find the top picks for retirees over 60.

The study looked at hotel ratings and their cost, quality of healthcare, walking routes and things to do to keep busy on vacation.

Three Aussie cities nagged spots in the top 10 – but which came out on top?

Read on to find out.

New Zealand

10. Singapore

Starting off the top 10 list is Singapore.

The city is home to 301 hotels with more than a three star rating – including the famous Marina Bay Sands hotel pictured here.

As well as having many walking routes for retirees to see Singapore, the city has lots of buzzing attractions and activities.

As pictured, the Gardens by the Bay nature park is one of the most well-known and popular attractions for travellers which boasts scenic views.

9. Munich, Germany

Next on the list is the first Europe entry – Bavaria's capital Munich.

Munich ranked with a high quality of healthcare, though the average costs of hotels is on the steeper side of the list.

There's lots of things to do and see in Munich, including many markets on offer.

The Viktualienmarkt is one of the top attractions listed for foodies to test Germany's fresh produce.

For retirees looking to soak up the history of the city, the old town hosts the Marienplatz square and other top attractions.

8. Oslo, Norway

Coming in at number eight is the scenic capital of Norway, Oslo.

Along with being easy to travel around, Oslo is a culturally rich city with lots of museums to visit.

The Viking Ship Museum and the Holmenkollen Ski Museum are just to name a couple.

Oslo also offers many walking routes for visitors and locals to check out, including some sightseeing around the Old Town.

7. Helsinki, Finland

Next on the list is Helsinki, which ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world according to the Happy City Index 2023.

Helsinki ranked high for its quality of healthcare according to the new study.

The city is also a culturally vibrant destination with lots of art museums, cathedrals and attractions to visit.

6. Brisbane, Australia

The first Aussie city to crack the list is none other than Brisbane.

Amongst its skyscrapers the city is filled with patches of greenery including the stunning City Botanic Gardens right in the heart of Brisbane.

Along with lots of walking routes, the city boasts lots of activities from visiting a Koala sanctuary to river cruises to even an hour away day trip to the stunning Tangalooma Island Resort.

5. Auckland, New Zealand

Not far from Australia, the next top vacation pick for retirees goes to Auckland.

Auckland has hundreds of walking routes and hiking trails to explore.

Pictures is the view of the city skyline from Mount Eden, which is the highest volcanic peak in Auckland that visitors can walk up.

4. Berlin, Germany

A second German city to make the list is the country capital Berlin.

A top choice for retirees to visit, Berlin was found to have hundreds of hotels ranked at least three stars for a stay in the city.

The city is also buzzing with lots of attractions for retirees to enjoy.

The pictured Brandenburg Gate is one of the top spots to visit as well as the Berlin Cathedral and the Reichstag Building.

3. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Making the top three is another European city – Amsterdam.

Amsterdam was found to have the most tours available out of the destinations on the list, including its popular canal cruise which takes you on a scenic journey around the city centre.

Along with lots of walking routes around the city, Amsterdam is home to some stellar markets.

The Bloemenmarkt is a popular flower market floating on the canal while Albert Cuypmarkt is known as the largest food market in The Netherlands.

In second place is Australia's very own Sydney.

From the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge to the Opera House or a Ferry trip to Manly, there's lots to see and experience in Sydney.

The city was also found to have lots of three star and above hotel options and has a high healthcare quality rating.

One of the biggest selling points for a retirement trip in Sydney is of course the beaches.

From Bondi Beach to the stunning Northern Beaches, the Sydney sand and water makes it a picturesque destination for retirees to vacation.

1. Melbourne, Australia

Taking the crown – and beating Sydney and Brisbane – is Australia's Melbourne.

Melbourne is known for its well-connected tram system and cafe scene, making it a buzzing city to visit.

There's lots of things for retirees to do in Melbourne, whether it be a trip to Queen Victoria Market or the National Gallery of Victoria.

IMAGES

15 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands
12 Best Cities & Towns to Visit In The Netherlands
10 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands
5 Best cities to visit in the Netherlands
Top 20 Spectacular Spots In The Netherlands
The Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

VIDEO

10 Best Things to DO in NETHERLANDS
TOP 10 Things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands 2023!
Best Cities to Live in the Netherlands
Top 10 Reasons You NEED to Visit Belgium RIGHT NOW!
Top 5 Most Beautiful Places in The Netherlands
NETHERLANDS 4K ULTRA HD (60fps)

COMMENTS

15 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands (+Map)
With its lovely old buildings, twisting canals and cobbled streets, Haarlem is certainly charming, and there are many great artworks on display in its galleries and museums. At the center of the flower-growing region, when in bloom, Haarlem is a great base from which to visit the colorful fields. 8. Leiden.
The best places to visit in the Netherlands
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 ...
15 Top-Rated Cities in the Netherlands
14. Nijmegen. 15. Gouda. 1. Amsterdam. Tulips and canal homes in Amsterdam. The largest city in the Netherlands, Amsterdam offers plenty of great attractions to visit. This vibrant Dutch city in fact attracts over 18 million tourists per year, making it one of the top places to visit in Europe for an urban getaway.
The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren't Amsterdam)
Photograph: Shutterstock. 2. Haarlem. If you're looking to stay close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is your best choice. This quaint city is a 16-minute train ride from the capital, and far cheaper to ...
Top 5 cities to visit in the Netherlands
5. Amsterdam. The draw of Amsterdamis clear to see: the city is an Instagrammer's dream, with gorgeous 17th-century architecture and quaint cobbled streets. If you haven't been before, make sure you see the most obvious sights - the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank's House, and Van Gogh Museumall worth your time and money.
14 Best Cities in the Netherlands to Visit
11. Amersfoort. Amersfoort is a medieval city in the Netherlands. It's one of the best towns to visit if you want to learn about how people lived in the Middle Ages. In addition, the city is a great resource for everyone who wants to learn about the rich Dutch culture and history.
10 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands
It is one of the places to experience the lively, traditional lifestyles of the Dutch in the Netherlands Open Air Museum. 9. Nijmegen. If you want to learn a bit of German, Nijmegen is one of the cities to visit in the Netherlands to do that. It is not far from the border of Germany and it is very close to Arnhem.
15 Best Cities In The Netherlands To Visit Besides Amsterdam
You can find more hints that Maastricht is indeed the oldest city in the Netherlands in the City Park. It includes remains of the ancient city wall and the Helpoort, the oldest gate in the country (dating back to 1229). 3. Rotterdam. Rotterdam is a bit like Amsterdam's little sister.
10 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands (+Map)
10. Gouda [SEE MAP] Gouda is a typical Dutch city with lots of old buildings and pretty canals, and is a popular destination for a day trip, thanks to its great rail- and highway connections. The city is famous for its cheese, its stroopwafels (syrup waffles), candles and its clay pipes.
Best places to visit in The Netherlands
7. Utrecht. Located only 1 hour from Amsterdam, Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands and one of the Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands . Utrecht is known worldwide for the De Haar Castle ranked among the most beautiful castles in the Netherlands.
30 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands
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.
15 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands
2. Giethoorn. Known as the Venice of the North, Giethoorn is one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. This small Dutch town is famous for its breathtaking thatched houses, lush nature, and small canals. The town itself doesn't have many roads, so the best way to get around is either on foot or by boat.
15 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands Besides ...
3 Muiden: The perfect day trip from Amsterdam. 4 Naarden. 5 Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg) 6 Leiden. 7 's-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch: 8 Den Haag / The Hague. 9 Heusden.
Where to Go in the Netherlands by Rick Steves
Rick's Best 12-Day Netherlands Trip. For an in-depth Netherlands experience, overnight in several places and use public transit. Start in small-town Haarlem (an ideal jet-lag pillow) and save big-city Amsterdam for your trip finale. Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam, head to Haarlem (sleep in Haarlem) Day 2: Sightsee in Haarlem (sleep in Haarlem)
Best Cities To Visit In The Netherlands
Maastricht. Although it is located on the southern tip of the country near the borders of Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is still one of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands and is still very Dutch. Medieval Maastricht, which is about 2.5 hours from Amsterdam, is also one of Holland's most vibrant, cultural and historical cities, as ...
17 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands
Vincent Van Gogh House Museum, Zundert. Map of Places to Visit in the Netherlands. 1. Amsterdam. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, Netherlands. The capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is one of Europe's best cities for arts, culture, history, dining, and pure scenic delight.
22 Best Places To Visit In Netherlands On Your Next Trip
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.
16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands
2. Keukenhof, Lisse Keukenhof . 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.
25 Most Beautiful Places in the Netherlands
Slot Loevestein. Ammersoyen Castle. Het Loo. 5 Most beautiful parks and gardens in the Netherlands. Keukenhof. The Gardens of Appeltern. The Castle Gardens of Arcen. The Castle Garden of Oud-Valkenburg. Botanical Garden in Kerkrade.
21 beautiful towns in the Netherlands that aren't Amsterdam
17. Utrecht. Utrecht is a beautiful and typically Dutch city that is often forgotten (Amsterdam and Rotterdam seem to rule the roost). Ad by Refinery89. Once the religious capital of the Netherlands, this quaint, medieval city radiates around the Dom Tower — the tallest church tower in the Netherlands.
7 Cities & Towns you Must Visit in the Netherlands
Utrecht. Described to me as Amsterdam's cooler little sister, Utrecht is a city like no other in the Netherlands and perhaps even in Europe (though it kind of reminded me of the effortless coolness of Antwerp and Ghent in Belgium). Utrecht doesn't have many sights or attractions, but has plenty of cool cafes, eateries and boutiques to discover.
20 Best Things To Do In The Netherlands
Top 5 cities to visit in the Netherlands. The world's most fascinating streets. 7 Dutch cities to explore beyond Amsterdam. Responsible travel - a green stay in Amsterdam. Airbnb: ten unusual places to stay. 20 of the world's most amazing engineering feats. Amsterdam markets. 5. Den Haag (The Hague)
25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands
9. Have fun at Efteling. Source: Natalia Deriabina / Shutterstock.com. Efteling. Efteling is the biggest amusement park in the Netherlands and is located at Kaatsheuvel. The park is divided up into different zones that are known as realms and each one focuses on a different ancient myth or legend.
What you need to know before you go to the Netherlands
Save this guide to the best cycling routes in the Netherlands. 13. Take care on and around canals. The Netherlands' picturesque waterways in its cities, towns and countryside are rarely if ever fenced or protected by barriers. Keep an eye out, especially if you're traveling with young children.
10 Most Beautiful Cities of the Netherlands
The Netherlands boasts many beautiful cities, but which one should you visit? Here's a guide to the top 10 most picturesque cities and historical places in Holland to help you plan your next weekend getaway. 1 - Middelburg. Middelburg, located in the beautiful province of Zeeland, is a city full of unique and historic houses. Despite the ...
Alternative to Amsterdam: Beautiful cities in the Netherlands
Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and a true cultural stronghold. The Erasmus Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge, or the 85-meter-high Euromast observation tower are a must-see.
7 Places Americans Can Go Without A Visa This Summer
Americans have the luxury of visa-free travel to many countries, including popular European destinations. US citizens can explore iconic cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam this summer without any visa hassle. From the futuristic city of Tokyo, Japan, to beach vibes in Tulum, Mexico, Americans can enjoy diverse summer getaways without a visa.
The top 10 best cities in the world for retirees
A new study by insurance site Paying Too Much has looked at cities from all over the globe to find the top picks for retirees over 60. The study looked at hotel ratings and their cost, quality of healthcare, walking routes and things to do to keep busy on vacation. Three Aussie cities nagged spots in the top 10 - but which came out on top?

The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren’t Amsterdam)

The best Dutch cities to visit

1. Rotterdam

2. Haarlem

3. 's-Hertogenbosch

4. Maastricht

5. Arnhem

6. Utrecht

7. Ameland

15 Best Cities In The Netherlands To Visit Besides Amsterdam

Best Cities To Visit In The Netherlands

1. Eindhoven

2. Maastricht

3. Rotterdam

4. Den Bosch

5. Arnhem

7. Amersfoort

8. Nijmegen

11. Utrecht

12. Haarlem

13. Groningen

14. The Hague

Conclusion: The Best Cities In The Netherlands

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Plan Your Trip

10 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

10. Gouda [SEE MAP]

9. Rotterdam [SEE MAP]

8. Groningen [SEE MAP]

7. Haarlem [SEE MAP]

6. Utrecht [SEE MAP]

5. Maastricht [SEE MAP]

4. The Hague [SEE MAP]

3. Delft [SEE MAP]

2. Leiden [SEE MAP]

1. Amsterdam [SEE MAP]

Map of the Netherlands

The Netherlands Travel Video

27 Top Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

12 Most Beautiful Regions in the Netherlands

10 Most Charming Small Towns in Holland

15 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands

10 Best Places to Visit in Limburg, Netherlands

Your Quintessential Guide To Seeing The Tulip Fields in Holland

12 Best Things to do in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

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30 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands

1. Amsterdam

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2. Kissing Couple XXL

3. Zaanse Schans

4. Volendam

Best place to stay around Amsterdam

6. Muiderslot Castle

7. Heeswijk Castle

8. Fort de Roovere

9. Kinderdijk

10. Dordrecht

11. National Park the Biesbosch

12. Deltaworks Neeltje Jans

13. Parkstad Limburg

14. Pyramid of Austerlitz

15. Wadden Islands - Texel

16. The Afsluitdijk

18. Groningen

19. Vesting Bourtange Fortress

20. Hunebedden

21. Camp Westerbork

22. Radio Sterrenwacht

23. TT Assen Circuit Tour

24. Giethoorn

25. Rotterdam - One of World's Biggest Ports

Where to stay in Rotterdam