Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of the most popular cities among tourists. This vibrant city is full of things to do and places to visit, like its stunning canals, the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and much more. Whether a culture enthusiast or a history buff, Amsterdam offers a unique experience for everyone.
Keep reading to find out more about the attractions that this city has to offer:
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Located near the city’s center, this museum houses a collection of works by the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh and other post-impressionist modern art. The museum is housed in a building designed by Gerrit Rietveld and was opened to the public in 1973. Its collection consists of more than 200 paintings and almost 500 drawings created between 1881 and 1890.
The permanent collection features some of van Gogh’s most celebrated works, including his self-portraits, landscapes, still lifes, and various studies painted in Neunen (1884–85), Antwerp (1885), Paris (1886–88) and Arles (1888–89). Displayed alongside van Gogh’s work are other artists he influenced, such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Paul Gauguin, Emil Nolde, and Pablo Picasso.
In addition to its permanent collections explored by guided tours or through special audio tours narrated by famous actors, the Van Gogh Museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics related to post-impressionism. The museum also has an online shop where visitors can pick up souvenirs such as books and stationery featuring images from van Gogh’s work. There is also a stylish restaurant that offers contemporary European cuisine with an emphasis on local produce.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a must-see attraction in Amsterdam that commemorates the story of Anne Frank, a young girl who hid with her family during the German occupation. This fascinating museum is housed in the former home and secret annex of Anne Frank located at Prinsengracht 263-267. Visitors can step back to the era of Anne’s life through historical objects, photographs, personal belongings, and an audiovisual presentation.
The Anne Frank House also features several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore events leading up to World War II, as well as follow the journey of Anne from her childhood to her ultimate death at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. In addition to providing clues about what happened during World War II, the museum presents relevant contemporary social issues like racism, respect for human rights, and freedom of speech.
Due to its immense popularity, visitors are advised to book tickets for the Anne Frank House in advance. Special guided tours are also available for those who would like a more comprehensive experience. This unique attraction proves why Amsterdam attracts tourists from all over the world looking to explore its stories and impart lasting messages on human dignity and courage.
Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum is a Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. Located in the Museum District of Amsterdam, the museum was founded in 1800 and houses many masterpieces making it one of the Netherlands’ most iconic museums. The collection includes over 8,000 objects from the Middle Ages up to the 20th century, with works from Dutch masters such as Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer taking center stage alongside ancient artifacts and archaeological discoveries.
The structure is a masterpiece designed by Pierre Cuypers and completed in 1885. Visitors can explore its various exhibit halls, which showcase Dutch medieval sculptures and paintings by renowned Dutch masters such as Jan Steen, Frans Hals, Jacob van Ruisdael, and Ferdinand Bol. There are also galleries dedicated to 16th-17th century art from Holland’s Golden Age; collections of Chinese porcelain; and Aboriginal Art from Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia.
Other highlights include:
- An interactive Children’s Wing;
- An Obelisks Gallery;
- Museum Shop;
- Café terrace with spectacular views over the museum garden;
- Multi-lingual audio tours of selected highlights;
- Self-guided tours with witty explanatory texts in 10 different languages;
- Plus, temporary exhibitions are held throughout the year.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a vibrant city and the second-largest city in the Netherlands. With its architectural and cultural sights, this bustling city will fascinate you. Whether you want to explore historic and traditional buildings or go shopping in modern shopping malls, Rotterdam has something for everyone. The city also offers stunning views of the River Maas and many other attractions.
Let’s explore what Rotterdam has to offer:
Euromast
Euromast is an observation tower in the Netherlands city of Rotterdam that stands over 612 feet tall. It is an iconic symbol of the city and offers visitors a breathtaking view from its viewing platform, located at the top. Visitors can lift to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Rotterdam’s harbor, industrial skyline, and surrounding areas.
Euromast provides different levels of observation from which to view the city, starting with an outside ledge at 85 meters high and moving up to the observation deck at 100 meters. Adventure-seekers can even reach the 360-meter elevated platform via abseiling or climbing. For those who prefer something more leisurely, Euromast offers various dining experiences and annual events like fireworks displays on special occasions.
Onsite amenities include a restaurant, bar, gift shop, and prestigious “Sky Dining” option for guests who want a truly unique experience in Rotterdam.
In recent years, Euromast has initiated several projects to become more sustainable, such as solar panels for heating their water supply and partnering with local organizations that focus on sustainability initiatives.
No matter what time of day or night you visit Euromast, it promises breathtaking views over one of Europe’s most vibrant cities!
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge is an icon of the city of Rotterdam, a unique combination of style and functionality. The bridge was designed by Ben van Berkel, who wanted to create a graceful yet pure design. This modern structure has become one of Rotterdam’s most popular attractions and is often referred to as “the Swan.”
The 828-meter-long Erasmus Bridge stretches across the Nieuwe Maas River and takes its name from the famous scholar Erasmus Roterodamus. It is noted for its distinctive sail shape and asymmetrical pylon with a cable-stayed support system. Since its completion in 1996, it has become an iconic symbol of modern engineering that thousands flock to marvel at every year.
The bridge offers spectacular views over the city, especially at night when you can look out over the illuminated skyline. In addition, the Erasmus Bridge frequently hosts arts performances, cultural events, and cycling activities, adding to its appeal as one of Rotterdam’s must-see attractions.
Markthal
Markthal is one of the unique attractions in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This bustling food market covers an impressive 8,500 square meters in the Centrum district. Complete with gabled façades and majestic glass arches, the impressively designed building was inspired by Dutch 15th-century Flemish architecture.
Inside, you can buy farm fresh food products of all kinds, which are brought in daily by local producers. There are also plenty of eateries to choose from, offering a wide range of international cuisines. From Mexican to sushi and burgers to halal dishes, Markthal has something for everyone’s palate! In addition, shoppers can find gourmet delicacies like truffles and caviar, as well as organic fruits and vegetables. The ground floor even has a supermarket for all your daily groceries needs.
The building itself is worth admiring – it is designed in curves with a striking mural of colorful fruit on its ceiling proclaiming “I Amsterdam” amidst other vibrant symbols that pay homage to national icons such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt. In addition, art installations are displayed throughout, showing Rotterdam’s dynamic personality – remember to take time out from shopping to enjoy it!
The Hague
The Hague is a vibrant city in the Netherlands and one of many popular tourist attractions. It is the administrative center of the Netherlands and home to the Dutch government and many international organizations. It also houses the International Court of Justice.
A visit to The Hague is a great way to explore the culture and history of the Netherlands and enjoy the city’s many attractions, such as its museums, galleries, restaurants, and parks.
Binnenhof
The Binnenhof is a unique historical monument in the Hague, the capital of the Netherlands. Located in the old center of The Hague near other major landmarks, this medieval castle was built in 1230 and has served as the main hall of Dutch politics since 1446. It is one of few parliamentary buildings that still has its original purpose.
The Binnenhof complex consists of significant buildings such as the Knights Hall, Grote Kamer, and other buildings around a courtyard known as Hofvijver (Court Pond). The entire complex underwent extensive renovations in 2010-11 and today offers visitors a fascinating insight into Dutch history going back many centuries.
When visiting The Binnenhof, you can explore its historical halls and visit contemporary exhibitions such as Kabinetkanselarij (Cabinet Chancellery). You may also be able to witness current political events like live debates or press conferences being held within its walls. Finally, take some time to enjoy idyllic views and stroll around the peaceful Hofvijver, which is home to swans and ducks that symbolize harmony in the city of peace and justice.
Panorama Mesdag
Panorama Mesdag is a massive, cylindrical painting of the coastline near The Hague, Netherlands. Completed in 1881 by artist Hendrik Willem Mesdag and his wife Sientje Mesdag-van Houten, it is still considered one of the world’s most remarkable panoramic paintings – its size and detail are simply unparalleled. The cylindrical canvas measures 14 meters in diameter and 4 meters high and gives viewers an amazing 360-degree view of the seaside village in all its detail.
When viewed from the high observation platform within this cylindrical painting, one feels as if they have been magically transported to the Hague’s beachfront. People can look for more than an hour at this magnificent circular wonder and remain mesmerized by its beauty.
Visitors to Panorama Mesdag can also view an impressive collection of Romantic art that includes works from Worringer, Rihouet-Coroze, and Corboux, as well as Dutch masters Rembrandt van Rijn and Jan Steen, among others. The audio guide accompanying this museum offers additional insight into the paintings to gain a deeper understanding of Dutch culture during the 19th century when these works were created.
Visitors can find Panorama Mesdag on the Zeestraat near The Hague’s Museum Square, which stands out among some of Europe’s most prominent museums. It will be sure to impress art lovers from around the world with its magnificent display of 19th-century Dutch art set in a stunning outdoor environment.
Madurodam
Madurodam is a miniature city located in The Hague, Netherlands. It consists of scale models of famous Dutch landmarks, historical cities, and large developments. It was opened in 1952 to honor George Maduro, a Jewish law student from Curaçao who fought against the Nazi occupation during World War II.
The park covers an area of about 1.2 hectares (2.9 acres) and contains around 1050 model buildings and structures, including windmills, canals, an airport, and a harbor. Visitors can experience Dutch life in miniature at Madurodam with restaurants, shops, markets, and other activities to explore. Popular attractions include the replica of Amsterdam Centraal Station, Rotterdam’s Erasmus Bridge, The Hague’s Binnenhof (parliament building), Haarlem City Hall, and more.
The park also has interactive exhibits such as a sandpit where visitors can construct their houses with toy blocks or enjoy a ride on a simulated canal boat, taking them around the park. At the same time, they learn interesting facts about Dutch culture via an audio presentation accompanying the ride. Madurodam also hosts special seasonal events throughout the year, such as flower parades in April-May when over 800 tulips come into full bloom adding splashes of vibrant colors to this fantastic miniature world which is sure to enthrall both young and old alike!
Utrecht
Utrecht is a city in the central-eastern part of the Netherlands and one of the country’s biggest cities. Utrecht is known for its winding canals, majestic churches, lively markets, and lush parks. It is also known for its rich culture and history, made evident through its centuries-old museums and galleries.
Let’s explore some of the attractions that Utrecht has to offer:
Dom Tower
The Dom Tower of Utrecht is the city’s iconic symbol and stands at a remarkable height of over 112 meters (367 feet). It is one of the oldest towers in the Netherlands and is one of only a few towers remaining from a medieval cathedral.
You can take an elevator up to the tower’s observation balcony, where you can get amazing views of Utrecht and its many attractions. The terrace also provides visitors with easy access to other significant monuments in the city, such as St. Martin’s Cathedral and Town Hall square, both located nearby.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb up the 500 spiraling steps instead of taking the elevator. This option offers visitors a unique chance to experience medieval engineering within a modern cityscape. There are also guide cards en route, including multimedia stations loaded with historical information about this marvelous monument, adding another layer to your experience at The Dom Tower.
Museum Speelklok
Museum Speelklok is located in Utrecht, Netherlands, and is a museum dedicated to music boxes. The museum was opened in 1972 and housed a permanent exhibition of mechanical musical instruments with automatic performances ranging from grand pianos to self-playing orchestras. Visitors can experience these historical instruments in action and browse through the range of intuitive musical devices on display.
The museum also features special exhibitions throughout the year, allowing visitors to explore the history of music boxes and their modern-day technology. There is also a unique collection of sound recordings from classical player pianos around the globe, unearthing some fantastic compositions from days ago.
If you’re looking for an interactive cultural activity for all ages, Museum Speelklok is an excellent choice; you’re sure to leave with some unique memories!
Centraal Museum
Located in the center of Utrecht, the Centraal Museum is a delight for art enthusiasts. This world-class museum offers a range of permanent collections from classical to contemporary pieces, including 16th-century portraits, Rembrandt etchings, tapestries, 19th-century illustrations, and works from local artists.
The Centraal Museum also has temporary exhibitions, such as those that focus on modern photography or fashion. Furthermore, visitors can learn more about Dutch culture through special programs such as guided group tours and audioguides available in English. In addition to its visual arts projects, the museum hosts many literary and musical events throughout the year.
Whether you are visiting with friends or family, there’s something at the Centraal Museum to enjoy for everyone.
Delft
Delft offers plenty of attractions for a small town in the Netherlands for those looking for a unique, culturally-rich getaway. Visitors can stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the quaint Dutch old-world architecture, sample the local cuisine, explore the iconic canals and waterways, and visit some fascinating museums and historical sites.
Let’s take a closer look at the many unique and exciting attractions of Delft:
Delft Blue Pottery
Delftware or Delft pottery, also known as Delft Blue (Dutch: Delfts blauw), is a general term now used for Dutch tin-glazed earthenware, a form of faience. Most of it is blue and white pottery, and the city of Delft in the Netherlands was the major center of production, but the term covers wares with other colors and is made elsewhere. Nevertheless, it continues to be produced in considerable quantities.
The earliest tin-glazed pottery in the Netherlands was made in Antwerp, where the Italian potter Guido da Savino settled in 1500. Traces of his work are still visible around town. The first production of authentic pottery was decided near Heusden on 8 July 1610 – though this date is mainly based on a very dubious description from 1659.[1]
Delftware in Dutch history developed at that time as a local version of faience. Produced mainly for tiles and other uses in which a white background was desirable, much of it featured decorations that imitated Chinese porcelain with primarily blue paint and overglaze enamel decorations using copper green and manganese purple pigments. Specific uses for which different types were created included water jugs (mainly for flower arrangements), wine flasks (for tap rooms), dishes for oysters, and small fish and plates specialized for use by smokers, among others.[2]
[1]: Fokkens, Antony (2011). “Delft ware” (in Dutch). Hoogsteder & Hoogsteder & Numan: pp2–3
[2]: Brockman M., Catherine McQuiston (2005). “The World’s Most Famous Table Cloths.” William Morrow Paperbacks: New York
Nieuwe Kerk
Nieuwe Kerk, built in the 15th century, is a Gothic-style Catholic church in Delft, Netherlands. It has a rich history that includes operas and royal weddings. The church also serves a vital role as a symbol of Dutch nationalism.
Inside Nieuwe Kerk, visitors will see stunning artwork from the Dutch Masters. Among these pieces are works from Rembrandt and Vermeer. Nieuwe Kerk is also home to the memorial burial site dedicated to William the Silent, who fought for Dutch independence during the Eighty Years’ War.
In addition to its historical importance, Nieuwe Kerk holds regular classical music concerts attended by locals and tourists alike.
Outside the church sits a peaceful square filled with cafes and boutiques, as well as statues depicting famous figures such as Rembrandt van Rijn and Maurice of Nassau. The court is lined with illuminated trees at night, giving off a fantastic ambiance that creates memorable experiences for all who visit it.
Nieuwe Kerk is one of Delft’s most recognizable attractions, and it provides visitors with an enriching cultural experience that highlights Delft’s tumultuous past while embracing its modern-day identity.
Prinsenhof Museum
The Prinsenhof Museum in the heart of Delft is one of the Netherlands’ most popular attractions. Visitors can explore the city’s past and present in this museum, filled with historical artifacts and prints. The museum is accessible by both road and train and offers a variety of admission packages to suit travelers.
The museum covers many aspects of Dutch life over hundreds of years, from wars to art to economic prosperity. On display are works by Jan Vermeer, royal furniture from the past two centuries, historic prints from notables such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, weapons from Elland Abbey, coins from all over Europe, baroque paintings of Delft scenes, and much more. Highlights include:
- A 1645 map showing Delft at the time under French occupation during the War for Orange Succession;
- Extensive collections on Dutch naval feats during World War II;
- Artifacts collected during those wars;
- Clocks used on ships during that era;
- Traditional Asian works of art gifted by foreign dignitaries;
- Numerous historical items belonging to Dutch Royals, including mementos used in coronations for their royal office.
Visitors can also access informative exhibitions such as “Delft Through Time,” which presents a comprehensive overview of the city’s complex history through images, videos, and wax figures. They depict centuries of characterful local personalities who have shaped it into today’s vibrant capital city. All pieces are presented in an intimate setting instead of massive galleries, making it a pleasant yet educational experience for visitors. At the same time, they take in all the information around them. Special events are held year-round at Prinsenhof Museum, so check out their website or call ahead before planning your trip!