The Netherlands is a beautiful country with a unique culture and many attractions. The country is famous for its tulips, windmills, and colorful canals, as well as its cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife scene. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or a city break, the Netherlands has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the Netherlands’ most popular attractions and destinations, as well as tips on how to get around, where to stay, and what to eat:
Overview of the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a small, densely populated country in Western Europe, bordering the North Sea and Belgium to the south. It is located along the coast. This flat and low-lying country is commonly referred to as “Holland,” though that name only applies to two of its provinces in the west. This vibrant nation is brimming with culture and cuisine, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking for an exciting mix of natural wonders and metropolitan delights.
From stunning forests and coastal marine life to golden tulip fields and quaint windmills, you’ll find plenty of natural splendor. But the urban landscapes are worth exploring too, with iconic attractions like Keukenhof garden in Amsterdam, filled with colorful tulips, or Rotterdam’s Maritime Museum offering a glimpse into Dutch maritime history. In addition, cozy villages like Kinderdijk or Edam are dotted across the country, offering unique Dutch architecture and fantastic restaurants showcasing traditional Dutch cuisine.
Ultimately, no visit to the Netherlands would be complete without stopping by the capital city, Amsterdam—the home of world-famous art galleries, including the Rijksmuseum or accompanying Anne Frank on her journey at her house-turned-museum—certainly not one for visitors to miss! There truly is something for everyone when you choose to explore The Netherlands!
Weather and climate
Weather and climate are two distinct aspects of the Earth’s atmosphere. Weather is the short-term atmospheric conditions of a region, measured over 24 hours. On the other hand, the climate is calculated over the long term, generally using 30 years or more as a base period.
Weather describes wind speed and direction, temperature, cloud cover, and humidity at a particular time and place. In contrast, climate accounts for temperature over seasons and years combined with prevailing winds and precipitation patterns such as amounts of snowfall and rain in different areas. It is essential to understand that weather can vary significantly daily while climate remains relatively stable.
Transportation
Traveling around the Netherlands is straightforward. The country has a well-developed public transport system with an extensive network of trains, buses, and trams. In addition, the airports in the Netherlands offer direct flights to many destinations around the world. In addition to public transport, various car rental options are also available. Cycling is a popular choice for those looking for a more relaxed way of getting around.
Flying to the Netherlands
Flying to the Netherlands is an easy and often economical way to travel. The country’s main airport is Schiphol Airport (AMS), located near Amsterdam, and it serves as the hub for three low-cost carriers: Transavia, KLM, and Corendon Dutch Airlines.
This airport allows international travelers to reach the Netherlands from many cities worldwide. In addition, domestic flights are available from smaller airports such as Eindhoven Airport (EIN), which serves cities within the Netherlands.
Along with its convenient location for flying within Europe, Schipol Airport offers two terminals with a variety of amenities like duty-free shopping and restaurants; there are even resting areas where travelers can take a nap before their next flight. In terms of cost-effectiveness, it may be worth considering budget airlines options; these include:
- RyanAir (which flies to many European destinations).
- Wizz Air (which is another Europe-centric airline).
Schipol also offers car rentals and bus services into the city center or other parts of the country.
Getting around the Netherlands
The Netherlands is easy to get around, with an incredibly efficient and comprehensive public transport network that consists of trains, buses, trams, ferries, and metro systems.
- Trains: Most travelers take advantage of the expansive rail network to explore the Netherlands. High-speed Intercity and Intercity Direct trains connect larger cities as well as smaller towns. Holland Travel Tickets allow unlimited travel within one area for a fixed period at good prices.
- Buses: Bus networks cover larger distances in rural areas where trains do not run or connect key locations across the country. The Nederlandse Bussenring is a national bus service that connects major cities in the Netherlands. Other regional bus services provide transport within certain regions or districts.
- Trams: Tramways are found in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, where they are used as part of the local public transport networks, connecting destinations across town like minibusses – they can take you to places that buses cannot!
- Ferries are available daily between Amsterdam Central Station (the ticket office is located outside Prins Hendrikkade) and other towns along the river Amstel such as Utrecht or Rotterdam (VEKA Ferries). If you’re looking to explore more remote cities like Friesland or Groningen, taking a river tour on a local ferry may be worthwhile!
- Metro Systems: Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague have their metropolitan subway networks, which run regularly throughout the day – often 24/7 – making it easy to get around using public transport when combined with trams and buses!
Accommodations
Accommodations in the Netherlands vary widely, from 5-star luxury hotels to camping sites for the adventurous soul. No matter your budget, you can find the perfect place to stay during your travels to the Netherlands.
In this section of the guide, we will discuss the different types of accommodations available in the country, from hotels to hostels to Airbnb:
Hotels
The Netherlands has many hotel accommodation options, ranging from small, budget-friendly hotels to luxurious five-star resorts. The cities are the most popular destinations for travelers, with Amsterdam and Rotterdam offering abundant lodging choices.
No matter your budget, you are sure to find a hotel that fits your needs in one of the major cities in the Netherlands. Many hotel rooms have modern comforts such as air conditioning and electric kettles for making tea and coffee. In addition to popular chain hotels such as Best Western or Ibis, you can also stay in boutique hotels and B&Bs for a more personal experience.
In Amsterdam and Rotterdam, there are plenty of luxurious 5-star establishments for those looking for something more indulgent and lavish. Hotels such as Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam or Sofitel Legend the Grand Amsterdam offer grand lobbies with piano music, restaurants offering fine-dining menus, bar lounges where champagne is served nightly, and extensive spa facilities where you can indulge in treatments or take a dip in the pool while overlooking picturesque views of the city skyline.
Suppose you’re not looking to splurge but want something comfortable enough for long business trips. In that case, there are mid-priced options like Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre or Renaissance Rotterdam Hotel, which offer many modern amenities like shops onsite, restaurants serving international cuisine, and fitness centers. On the other hand, if you’re looking to save some money while exploring the country, then budget accommodation is available too; Youth Hostels provide dorms with low nightly rates, while independent hostels often offer basic rooms similar to those found in traditional hotels but at a lower cost.
Hostels
Hostels are an excellent option for budget-minded travelers in the Netherlands. Hostels typically offer shared dormitory-style accommodation, with separate bedrooms for males, females, and couples. Some also offer private rooms, so be sure to ask when booking. In addition, many hostels contain in-room amenities such as televisions, cooking facilities, and washing machines. Although most hostels are self-catering facilities, some will provide meals for an additional fee. In addition, they usually have a breakfast or dinner buffet available at certain times of the day.
Hostels in the Netherlands tend to be modern and well-equipped; they may include communal living areas with Wi-Fi and entertainment options, a bar or café, a shared kitchen, and laundry service – all designed to give you the freedom to relax while allowing you to meet other travelers from all over the world.
Most cities have one or more hostel listings that can be found online through:
- Hostelworld
- Booking.com
- Airbnb
Make it easy to find suitable accommodation without worrying about surprises when you arrive at your destination!
Camping
When looking for lodging in the Netherlands, camping can be an excellent option if you’re looking to keep your costs down. The Netherlands has several high-quality camping facilities offering a range of services. So whether you’re looking for basic camping or luxury glamping, the Netherlands offers plenty of choices.
Camping sites vary from large holiday parks run by international companies to small municipal parks and private gardens where locals rent out their gardens as campsites. Generally, more significant sites offer more amenities, such as swimming pools, children’s playgrounds, and even discos! In addition, campsites will provide electrical hook-ups and space to pitch your campervan or tent.
The peak season for camping runs from May until September, with campers paying the most expensive rates. For those wanting to stay during the shoulder months (April and October), there are far fewer campsites offering reduced rates during these months. Although it’s good to book ahead of time, especially in crowded areas, plenty of last-minute deals are available if you prefer a spot of automatic roaming!
Attractions
The Netherlands is a beautiful country that offers travelers various attractions. From the picturesque countryside to towering windmills, ancient forts, and world-class museums, the Netherlands has something for everyone.
In this section, we will discuss the many attractions that this stunning country has to offer. So, let’s dive in and explore why the Netherlands is one of Europe’s must-see destinations:
Museums
Exploring the museums of the Netherlands is one of the most popular activities among tourists, as the country boasts a wide variety of exciting sites ranging from classic art to modern culture.
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is probably the best-known museum in Europe, housing many famous works by Dutch painters like Rembrandt van Rijn and Frans Hals. Other must-see items include an exquisite collection of Dutch silverware and ceramics, which make up one of the most impressive displays you’ll find anywhere. In addition to these masterpieces, you’ll find an array of other fine arts and crafts, such as textiles, musical instruments, and tapestries from various parts of the world.
The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is another beloved tourist attraction. Visitors can explore a permanent exhibition relating to Anne’s life during WWII and topics such as World War II persecution and racism. The museum also holds several annual events each summer related to Anne Frank’s life and work, including discussions about current issues related to war, human rights, and democracy.
The Hague is known for its imposing government buildings. Still, it also houses some fascinating museums such as Panorama Mesdag – where you can take in a 360-degree painting depicting Scheveningen beach just as it was in 1881! Another amazing attraction is the Valkhof Museum – one of the oldest museums in The Netherlands – which houses an extensive collection featuring prehistoric artifacts, metalwork, coins, and jewelry dating back centuries.
Of course, these are just a few highlights – countless other incredible attractions across Holland will allow you to immerse yourself in its captivating history and culture. Whether you visit palaces or windmills or explore old bookstores or art galleries – there is a truly never-ending list of things to see and do!
Parks
Parks in the Netherlands offer a great way to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery without breaking the bank. The parks of the Netherlands are renowned for their lush landscapes, overflowing with vibrant flowers and foliage. You can take in stunning views at the local nature reserves or enjoy a tranquil stroll through grassy meadows.
Many of the parks feature impressive Dutch landmarks dating back centuries. For example, Amsterdam’s Dam Square is home to various statues and grand gabled buildings, while Rotterdam’s Euromast tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Elsewhere, dozens of smaller parks, such as Tweede Tol Park near Eindhoven and Ramspol Park in Utrecht, provide a tranquil refuge from bustling city life.
The Netherlands is also home to some of Europe’s finest botanical gardens, such as Hortus Haga near The Hague and De Rottekoeke in Rotterdam. These unique green spaces are teeming with exotic plants from around the world, making them perfect for those looking to learn more about horticulture or enjoy an easy afternoon stroll amidst nature’s beauty.
No matter what kind of outdoor activities you’re interested in – hiking, cycling, camping – there’s sure to be an ideal park for you in the Netherlands!
Historical Sites
The Netherlands has a long and colorful history that goes back hundreds of years. From the picturesque windmills that line the countryside to medieval cities and ancient castles, visitors have many historical attractions to explore. Here are some of the most popular sites:
- Kasteel de Haar: This 19th-century castle is considered one of Europe’s largest castles. Located near Utrecht, it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers tours for visitors who want to explore its fascinating history.
- Huis Ten Bosch Palace: One of the most exquisite palaces in The Netherlands, Huis Ten Bosch offers breathtaking views across The Hague. Its corridors are lined with works by famous Dutch masters, and its grounds feature stunning old buildings and sculptures.
- Maastricht Underground Tunnels: Located in Southeast Netherlands, these limestone tunnels were dug in 1651 as part of a resourceful mobility system in Maastricht. Now open to the public, visitors can take guided tours through its narrow passages while learning about its remarkable past.
- Amsterdam Canals: A significant part of Amsterdam’s charm is its picturesque canals crisscrossed by bridges and dotted with colorful houseboats. The best way to appreciate this unique cityscape is through canal boat or bike tours, which offer a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s cultural landmarks and unique neighborhoods.
- Marken Island: This island off the coast of North Holland is known for its traditional wooden houses, built as protection from floods centuries ago but have now become an iconic symbol of Dutch culture. Visitors can take picturesque hikes around Marken Island or set sail to explore even more charming villages along this part of The Netherlands’s coastline.
Food and Drink
The Netherlands is renowned for its distinct culinary style and offers a variety of delightful dishes and beverages to explore. Traditional Dutch cuisine is hearty and rich, often featuring fish, potatoes, and vegetables.
Typical snacks include stroopwafels (syrup waffles), kroketten (potato croquettes), and bitterballen (crispy deep-fried meatballs). Alcoholic beverages include jenever (Dutch gin), beer, genever (Dutch malt wine), and wine.
Read on to learn more about the food and drinks that await you in the Netherlands.
Traditional Dutch Cuisine
The Netherlands has a rich and diverse food culture with fresh produce, hearty main courses, and delicious desserts. Many of the Dutch dishes have been inspired by the country’s maritime history and feature fish and seafood prominently.
Traditional Dutch cuisine is primarily based on staples such as potatoes, bread, dairy products, pickled herring, and pancakes. In addition, salty licorice, brittle pastries called stroopwafels, and cheesecake-like vlaamse vla are some typical Dutch treats.
Cuisine in different regions of the country varies slightly. Typical dishes from the north include hutspot (mashed potatoes with carrots) and kapucijners (stewed white beans). The influential city of Amsterdam offers a wide range of foods, from international ethnic cuisines to traditional fares such as erwtensoep (split pea soup) and pannenkoeken (large thin pancakes).
Beer is a Dutch national staple – even more popular than water! Over 2 billion liters are produced for domestic consumption each year. Heineken is probably one of the nation’s most famous exports. Still, smaller artisanal producers make an array of interesting regional brews besides lagers, such as pale ales, wheat beers, and stouts that can be enjoyed locally in traditional brown cafes.
Local Restaurants
The Netherlands is renowned for its local restaurants, offering a wide variety of traditional Dutch dishes and regional specialties. So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full-service dinner, there’s something to please everyone in the Netherlands. Here are some of the types of restaurants you’ll find throughout the country:
- Snack bars: If you’re after something quick and convenient, look for snack bars serving local favorites like kroket (fried ragout patties) or frikandel (minced cold-cut sausage). They’re usually open until late, so they can be an ideal option if you suddenly find yourself hungry!
- Eetcafes: Eetcafes are casual places that serve hearty Dutch meals with a few international dishes thrown in. Guests may be treated to some live music or local entertainment too! The atmosphere here is relaxed and often serves as an informal social gathering spot.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: For a more upscale dining experience, head to one of the Netherlands’ many fine dining restaurants! These establishments offer gourmet cuisine and a luxurious atmosphere paired with impeccable service. Perfect for special occasions or just to treat yourself!
- Seafood Restaurants: If you love seafood, then make sure to visit one of the country’s many seafood restaurants serving up traditional catches like herring, plaice, and eel, as well as other international fare like lobster and oysters.
- Beer Gardens: A great spot to pair your food with drinks catered towards beer lovers like Heineken or smokey Grolsch lager on draft! Many also offer outside seating, which can be especially enjoyable on sunny days.
Bars and Nightlife
Bars and nightlife in the Netherlands offer something for everyone, from small, cozy pubs to vibrant, exciting clubs. Dutch beers are generally mild compared to other European countries, and their popularity has grown recently in the craft beer scene. Traditional genever is an alcohol made from a mash of fermented grains and malted barley that is also widely enjoyed. You may also find restaurants offering delicious Dutch fares such as bitterballen (deep-fried balls filled with a rich broth-based sauce) or stamppot (a dish combining vegetables, traditionally cabbage and potatoes).
In addition to traditional bars and clubs, music festivals are popular throughout the Netherlands. Amsterdam plays host to some of the biggest music events in the world, such as ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event), where many international DJs play throughout multiple venues all over the city. Rotterdam also offers a unique nightlife experience – check out Luxor theatre for up-and-coming local acts or venture into one of its many British-style pubs offering cheap beer and lively conversation. Other cities in the Netherlands, such as Utrecht, The Hague, and Den Bosch, each have unique bar scenes that cater to different audiences, so you can always find something new to explore!
No matter what type of bar or entertainment venue you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the Netherlands – from trendy cocktail bars to high-energy nightclubs – so don’t forget your dancing shoes!
Shopping
The Netherlands has everything when it comes to shopping. From high-end fashion boutiques to small souvenir shops, you’ll find it all here. The Netherlands has something for you whether you are looking for souvenirs, clothing, accessories, or food.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to go shopping in the Netherlands:
Markets
Exploring local markets is one shopping experience that will likely stand out to visitors from outside the Netherlands. These are open-air markets, selling both food and craft items, and usually occur in themes such as flower markets or flea markets.
The most iconic of them is the Amsterdam Flower Market on the Singel Canal (also known as Bloemenmarkt). Here you can find an abundance of bright flowers, bulbs, and plants for sale throughout the year, with over 100 stalls lining the veneer.
Other popular markets in The Netherlands include:
- Cheese markets (some operating since 1276!).
- Flea markets in cities like Rotterdam.
- Weekend antique markets in Haarlem.
- Delft’s pottery market.
If you find yourself near Leiden on a Monday morning, then be sure to head down to Noordeinde, where you’ll find hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts, and handmade items. Other great places for shopping include Haarlem’s Grote Markt and Den Bosch’s weekly market (Hooimarkt).
Each Dutch city will have its unique selection of traditional boutique shops worth exploring during your visit. Be sure to ask locals for recommendations – they often have insider knowledge that we internet-driven tourists can only dream about uncovering!
Shopping Malls
When shopping in the Netherlands, there are numerous options available. It may surprise those from other countries that Holland has a mixture of traditional small stores and large shopping malls. Whether you are looking for large chain stores, independent specialty shops, or local boutiques, the country offers plenty of choices to suit all shoppers.
Shopping Malls: The Netherlands’ most prominent shopping centers are in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. These two cities have several indoor malls and expansive outdoor areas dotted with shops and restaurants. In addition to these two cities, several smaller towns, such as Utrecht or Arnhem, also have shopping centers offering international brands and local stores. Groot Onderpark Mall in Utrecht is an example of a massive mall outside the main city center that provides leisure facilities for all ages.
Retail Outlets: Retail outlets line the streets of many Dutch cities and should not be overlooked when looking for unique items like handmade crafts or antiques from nearby markets. Big-box retailers such as Ikea, MediaMarkt, and Dutch department store HEMA are spread throughout the Netherlands for those seeking more mainstream products at a little lower than regular retail prices – great news for bargain hunters!
Safety
Safety should be a top priority when traveling to the Netherlands. The country is known to be one of the safest in the world, and crime rates are low. However, following basic safety rules and being aware of your surroundings are important.
This section will look at how to stay safe while exploring the Netherlands:
Crime
When visiting the Netherlands, most visitors face a few problems. Violent crime is rare, and theft levels are low compared to other major tourist destinations. However, as with anywhere, it’s essential to take the usual safety precautions and common sense when out and about in the country.
Generally, it’s best to avoid displays of wealth or carrying a large amount of cash. In addition, beware that pickpockets are known to operate in busy areas, such as on public transportation or at tourist sites, so it is vital to keep your belongings safe. Finally, be alert when visiting popular attractions, crowded markets, or places where hustlers may be looking for a “target.”
It’s also recommended that you carry only a copy of your passport rather than the actual one in case of theft. If any problems arise, then contact local police immediately; they will be able to provide more detailed advice on particular concerns someone might have while visiting The Netherlands.
Natural Disasters
The Netherlands is considered a safe country for travelers. However, it is prone to certain natural disasters, such as flooding and earthquakes. Though these occurrences are rare, and there has been no significant event in recent years, it is still essential to be aware of their possibility.
Flooding can occur primarily in the winter due to heavy rains or following episodes of strong winds, which whip up ocean waves that can overwhelm riverbanks and coastal dunes. To prepare for potential floods, be aware of changing weather conditions when traveling near watercourses or low-lying areas. Additionally, make sure your hotel or accommodation has an emergency plan in case of a disaster strikes while you’re staying there.
Earthquakes primarily occur along the Willem Alexander fault zone and have been recorded as high as 4-5 magnitude, according to seismologists and geologists at the University of Utrecht Monitoring Institute. Though no significant event has occurred since 2009, be aware that this geological phenomenon could strike any time during your visit to the Netherlands. Take the necessary precautions before heading out on your travels.