travel south netherlands

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in the Netherlands

Getting Around the Netherlands

Cities to Visit

Complete Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Public Transportation

Essential Dutch Phrases

One Week in the Netherlands

48 Hours in Amsterdam

Getaways From Amsterdam

Top Things to Do in the Netherlands

Castles to Visit in the Netherlands

Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Things to Do With Kids in Amsterdam

Shopping in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Top Markets

Live Music in Amsterdam

Amsterdam's Must-Visit Museums

Guide to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens

Must-Try Food in the Netherlands

Craft Beer in the Netherlands

Heineken Experience

Amsterdam's Top Restaurants

Nightlife in Amsterdam

Your Trip to the Netherlands: The Complete Guide

The Netherlands is a beautiful country with glorious national parks, picturesque windmills, and romantic canals all waiting to be explored. Cyclists will feel right at home in a country where there are more bikes than people while history, art, and architecture lovers will have plenty of sights to pique their interest. Plus, the cannabis is legal, and cheese and beer are celebrated; what’s not to love? This guide will help you plan your trip to the Netherlands from start to finish.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: Being a Northern European country, the Netherlands doesn’t experience much extreme weather, however rain is common all year round. During the depths of winter, the temperature can drop down to 35 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius), whereas in July it only makes it to 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius) (66 degrees F). On any given day, the weather can quickly switch from sunny to rainy and back to sunny again and, being a flat country, the wind can feel quite strong. For more information, read our complete weather and climate guide for the Netherlands .

Language: Citizens in the Netherlands speak Dutch as their first language, but almost everyone speaks at least some English and many are fluent,   making communicating in the Netherlands easy for English-speaking tourists.

Currency: Euros.

Getting Around : The NS rail system in the Netherlands is fairly clean, modern, and runs on time. If you’re traveling around the country and want to do so on your own time, it’s easy to hire a car from Schiphol (the Netherland’s largest airport) and in Rotterdam. In the country’s big cities everyone tends to travel by bicycle, which are easy and affordable to rent. Uber is available in the Randstad area (covering Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht), as well as Eindhoven, Haarlem and ‘t Gooi. You can see where in the Netherlands that Uber is available on their website .

Travel Tip: The cities of Rotterdam and Amsterdam have the metro, trams, and buses, while The Hague and Utrecht offer buses and trams to get around. In each city, you can buy day tickets that allow you access to all modes of transport. 

Things to Do 

The Netherlands is famous for so many things, from canals and clogs to windmills and tulips, so it can be hard to decide what to do while there. A visit to the country wouldn't be complete without taking a boat tour and winding your way through Amsterdam's waterways. It's also well-worth hiring a bike like a local and heading to Zaanse Schans , a picturesque village with beautiful traditional windmills. 

• If you find yourself in the country in spring, you should take a trip to Keukenhof. The park welcomes over one million visitors each season and you'll be greeted by seven million blooms including the iconic Dutch tulips.  
• Love being by the water? In summer, be sure to check out the beach clubs at Zandvoort or Noordwijk for instant Ibiza vibes.
• A trip to Amsterdam is all about balance. Learn about one of the most famous Dutchman at the Van Gogh Museum , then head to a coffeeshop (a cannabis cafe).

Explore what else this country has to offer with our articles on the best things to do and how to spend a week in the Netherlands .

What to Eat and Drink

Dutch cuisine is tasty and very reminiscent of home cooking. There is bitterballen , a thick stew which is breaded and fried, a perfect partner to a small beer (for which the Netherlands is also known). Stamppot is a traditional comfort food consisting of boiled, mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and sometimes meat. Stroopwafels, a large caramel-filled wafer cookie, are plentiful and can be bought plain or dipped in melted chocolate and loaded with different toppings like marshmallows or hazelnuts.

Then there are Dutch cheeses, which are typically relatively hard and fairly mild like gouda and edam. You can visit the cheese market in the town of Gouda or head to the cheese market in Alkmaar, the oldest cheese market in the Netherlands.

As for the beers we mentioned, Jopenkerk in Haarlem is an old church that has been converted to a craft beer brewery and restaurant, where you can take a tour, taste the beers, and stop for lunch. Alternatively, head to Amsterdam and hotfoot it to the old Heineken Brewery (now a museum) if you want to see how a household name beer is brewed. More into wine? Take a tour and have a tasting at Amsterdam's own winery.

If you're more interested in gourmet fare, the Netherlands has a variety of Michelin-starred restaurants, including three-Michelin-starred De Librije in Zwolle and Inter Scaldes in Kruiningen. 

Want more in-depth information on Dutch food? Check out our guides to the top foods and dishes to try in the Netherlands , plus the best places for craft beer .

Where to Stay

Most first-time visitors head straight to Amsterdam which is the country's capital and most popular city welcoming 20 million visitors in 2019   (compared to one million residents). From here you can take day trips to Utrecht, Haarlem, The Hague, and Gouda. You can also get to Rotterdam in a day, but this city, known for its contemporary art and architecture, is worth spending a few nights in. Plus, from Rotterdam you can reach Tilburg, Breda, and both the De Biesbosch and Drunen National Parks.

Interior design in the Netherlands is incredibly chic, and there are plenty of luxe hotels to stay in such as The Dylan in Amsterdam and Hotel Pincoffs in Rotterdam. Airbnb is available around the country, in fact you can even find some houseboats on the site, if you’re looking for somewhere different to stay. 

Getting There

From the U.S. you can fly to Schiphol airport on various airlines including American Airlines, British Airways, and KLM. You can also fly into Rotterdam, but flights can be limited and more expensive. It could work out cheaper to fly to Amsterdam and travel by train to Rotterdam, which costs around 18 euros per person.

You can rent a car but parking in the Netherlands, especially in the bigger cities, is incredible expensive. If your hotel doesn’t have free or affordable parking, it’s best to get around on a bike, tram, bus or metro. The country isn’t huge—it’s roughly half the size of South Carolina—so it’s easy to get around on public transportation. 

Culture and Customs

The Netherlands is a safe country where most people speak at least some English.

You generally only tip waiting staff if the service was good or exceptional, at which point you tip around 5 to 10 percent. Otherwise, you can round up the bill or leave the change. 

Typically, Dutch people are quite formal which can come across as being a little standoffish. 

Money-Saving Tips 

• Want to travel the city freely? Get a GVB (in Amsterdam) or RET (in Rotterdam) day pass, which allows you to travel on most buses, trams and the metro, from eight euros.
• Taxis from the airports are expensive but don’t be tempted to hop in an unlicensed cab. Uber operates in the country and costs around 30 euros from Schiphol to Amsterdam. From Rotterdam airport to the city center is around 16 euros.
• Museums are not free in the Netherlands, so if you’re heading to Amsterdam and want to head to some of the cultural sights it’s well worth buying an I amsterdam City Card (starting at 65 euros for 24 hours). It gains you free entrance to the best museums and galleries, free travel within the city limits, and discount on food and a canal cruise. With or without the card, if you want to visit the Van Gogh Museum, be sure to book your slot in advance as it sells out fast. You can only visit the Anne Frank House by booking online beforehand.
• There are 20 National Parks dotted all over the country that are beautiful, free to explore, and rich in various fauna and wildlife. Head to one for a walk or do as the Dutch and cycle.

amsterdam&partners. "Language."

Netherlands Bureau for Tourism and Congresses. "Keukenhof."

Statista. "Inbound Tourism Forecast in the Netherlands 2014-2020 (in millions)."  April 7, 2020.

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The Netherlands Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

When most people think of traveling in the Netherlands, they think of Amsterdam , with its semi-sleazy Red Light District, charming canals, historic windmills, and laid-back “coffee” shops where you can smoke pot.

But there is much more to the country than its largest city.

The Netherlands is a country filled with centuries-old brick homes, an interconnected system of canals (you can travel most of the country via the water), expansive farmland, and even some really nice beaches. It’s one of my favorite countries in the world. The people are wonderful, there are tons of small towns to explore, and its small size means it’s easy to visit in a short time.

Most travelers come here just to see Amsterdam for a few days before moving on.

Don’t do that.

Spend time exploring outside of Amsterdam and you can discover the country that keeps me coming back every year.

Whether you are backpacking or just traveling on a budget, this Netherlands travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and ensure you make the most out of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the Netherlands

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the netherlands.

1. Visit Amsterdam

The capital and center of tourism in the country, Amsterdam is as beautiful as it is crazy. There are famous canals, beautiful and historic houses, tons of parks, a foodie scene, art, coffee shops, and, of course, the infamous Red Light District and its wild nightlife. It’s perfect for exploring by bike and it’s every museum lover’s dream, with exhibitions on everything from Anne Frank to van Gough. Take a free walking tour to really get a feel for the city.

2. Explore Rotterdam

Rotterdam is one of the busiest shipping ports in the world. It may not get the attention Amsterdam does, but this city is a great place to visit if you want good parks and modern architecture (most of the old buildings were bombed in World War II) — including some futuristic cube houses. The port has an interesting harbor to explore (you can learn more about it in the attached Futureworld) and a few decent museums. It’s an often-overlooked city that’s worth a few days of exploring.

3. Take a canal tour

Whether in Amsterdam or in another city, make sure you take a canal tour to see the canals that made the country famous. The canals are such an integral part of life that you can’t really understand the country until you spend time boating on the canals. You can take a tour with a large company (there are tons of different canal tours on offer including a pizza cruise, cruises with wine and cheese, and booze cruises with unlimited drinks) but if you can, I suggest you rent your own boat which is much more affordable (prices start at 50 EUR) and gives you a more intimate experience.

4. Tour Leiden

Head to this small town and see where the Pilgrims lived before they left for America. It’s a historic city and filled with beautiful 17th-century buildings and landscaped parks. There are over a dozen museums in this small city, including the Museum of Antiquities and the National Museum of Ethnology. It also boasts in one of the Netherlands’ largest flower-growing areas. Go in May to catch the best of the tulip season.

5. Wander The Hague

Other things to see and do in the netherlands, 1. day trip to historic haarlem.

Haarlem, located just outside Amsterdam, was a cultural and economic hub during the Dutch Golden Age (1588-1672). Wander the city and take in the historic homes of the merchant class who brought the city to prominence. There’s not a ton to do here but the town center has a good market, a towering Gothic church, and it’s a low-key alternative to the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. It makes a nice escape for an afternoon.

2. Celebrate King’s Day (Koningsdag)

Every year on April 27th (April 26th if the 27th is a Sunday), the Dutch celebrate the birthday of their King, Willem-Alexander for Koningsdag . For 33 years, they celebrated Queen Beatrix on April 30th as part of Queen’s Day, however, in 2013 she passed the throne to her son so the holiday changed dates, and Queen’s Day became King’s Day. It’s a national holiday filled with outdoor concerts, lots of orange (the national color), plenty of drinking, and insane celebrations on the canals. It is one of the wildest national holidays I’ve ever celebrated.

3. Visit Edam

Edam is a popular cheese from the Netherlands. It’s also a town just 21 kilometers (13 miles) north of Amsterdam. Edam is a picture-perfect Dutch town with iconic windmills, rolling farmland, and quaint houses. It’s one of the most quintessential Dutch towns. You can explore the 18th-century cheese warehouses, go on a boat tour, or just come here to eat cheese and be as Dutch as possible!

4. Head to the Keukenhof

The Keukenhof is the largest flower garden in the world, boasting 79 acres of spectacular floral displays. Located between Amsterdam and The Hague, the garden is open between March and May of each year when the tulips are in season. More than 7 million bulbs are planted annually and the garden has around 800 different types of tulips. When you picture Holland, you picture flowers and there is no better place to see them than here! Admission is 19 EUR.

5. Bike through Hoge Veluwe National Park

Hoge Veluwe National Park is the largest national reserve in the Netherlands. Covering some 55 square kilometers (21 square miles), the park is composed of sand dunes and woodlands and is home to deer, wild sheep, foxes, badgers, boars, and more. You can rent bicycles to explore for 5 EUR. Don’t miss the Kröller-Müller Museum while you’re here. It has works by artists like van Gogh, Picasso, Rodin, and other masters. Admission to the park is 12.30 EUR.

6. Relax in Maastricht

One of the southernmost towns in the Netherlands, this city is famous for having the country’s only “mountain.” At 322 meters high (1,056 feet), Vaalserberg is really more of a hill and doesn’t take long to climb. But this often-overlooked city is a great place to experience Dutch life away from the hordes of tourists who frequent Amsterdam.

7. Go cycling

As one of the most popular activities throughout the country, you would almost feel out of place not on a bike. The Netherlands is covered by over 20,000 kilometers (12,400 miles) of paths dedicated to two-wheeled transportation. Hoge Veluwe National Park is a particularly beautiful place to ride, but the entire landscape of the country is quite scenic as well. Other popular places to cycle are the Dunes of Texel National Park, Kinderdijk (to see the windmills), and Lauwersmeer National Park. Bike rentals cost around 10-12 EUR per day.

8. Tour Delft

This is a fascinating little town, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. The town is known for its blue pottery (Delftware), but has a handful of other worthwhile sights to see too, including a Gothic church in the old town with a leaning tower (the foundation developed problems during construction); the Oostpoort, a city gate from 1400 that remains from the original city wall; and the stout City Hall building, part of which dates to the 17th century. The town lies just 20 minutes from The Hague and Rotterdam so you can visit as a day trip from either.

9. Admire van Gogh’s work

Open since 1973, this museum in Amsterdam is host to over 500 original works by Vincent van Gogh, in addition to works by some of his contemporaries and friends. The exhibits chronicle his life, showing the progress and development of his work, alongside Gaugain, Monet, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Van Gogh didn’t earn fame in his lifetime and was actually constantly struggling with poverty, making his accomplishments all the more impressive and inspiring. Admission is 20 EUR. Note: Pre-book tickets online to avoid massive queues when you arrive.

10. Visit “Venice of the North”

Slow-paced Giethoorn, located east of Amsterdam, is a charming place with lots of picturesque canals. With no cars allowed in the city center, this peaceful town is a good change of pace from the busyness of the Netherlands’ larger cities. Rent a small boat and spend the day floating by charming cottages and enjoying the slower pace of life.

11. Learn about the Netherlands’ past

Opened in 1912, the Netherlands Open Air Museum is a sprawling 100-acre space that highlights what life was like in historic Netherlands. You can see traditional cabins and houses, learn about trades and crafts, and discover more about the country’s history from the Middle Ages to the present. The museum is located in Arnhem and is a great place to visit with kids. Admission is 19.50 EUR.

12. Have fun at an amusement park

Efteling, in Kaatsheuvel, is one of the oldest theme parks in the world (it opened in 1952) and is the Netherlands’ biggest amusement park. It has all the usual theme park attractions like rollercoasters, games, and performances and is open year-round (each season has different features like fairy lights and bonfires in the winter, and tulips and Dutch terraces in the spring). Admission costs 38 EUR (prices vary by day and season). You need a reservation as well as a ticket.

  For more information on cities in the country, check out these guides:

• Amsterdam Travel Guide
• The Hague Travel Guide
• Rotterdam Travel Guide
• Utrecht Travel Guide

The Netherlands Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels typically cost between 15-35 EUR per night for a bed in a dorm with 6-8 beds. The most popular hostels in Amsterdam can be closer to 50 EUR in the summer so avoid visiting in peak season if you’re on a budget (and book early if you do). Private rooms in hostels cost at least 65 EUR per night for a room that sleeps two (closer to 115 EUR in Amsterdam). Free Wi-Fi is standard, and many hostels also have self-catering facilities. In some cities, the hostels close in winter.

Camping is available around the country, with campgrounds costing around 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Budget hotels with basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi, TV, and AC cost around 55-85 EUR per night. Expect to pay 10-20 EUR more in Amsterdam and The Hague.

Airbnb is also an option, with private rooms averaging around 50 EUR per night (it’s more like 80 EUR in Amsterdam) and entire homes (including studio apartments) averaging around 100 EUR per night (but again, much higher in Amsterdam). Book early or prices can double.

Food – The Netherlands isn’t famous for its food, but there’s still good stuff to be had. Dutch cuisine typically involves lots of vegetables, bread, and cheeses (gouda originated here). Meat, while historically not as prominent, is a staple of dinner meals. Breakfast and lunch usually involve open-faced sandwiches, often with cheeses and cold cuts. Dinners are very much a “meat and potatoes” meal, with meat stews and smoked sausage being two popular choices. For those with a sweet tooth, the stroopwafel (a waffle cookie with a syrup filling) is the go-to choice, though apple tarts/pies are also local favorites.

Other things to try include poffertjes (fluffy mini-pancakes served with powdered sugar), gouda and edam cheeses, and patat (thick-cut fries with toppings).

Cheap meals at fast food joints or places like Maoz or Walk to Wok cost around 10-15 EUR. Casual restaurant meals average around 15-20 EUR for a main dish while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 30-35 EUR.

Chinese food costs between 10-15 EUR while a large pizza costs around the same. Beer costs 5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water is around 2 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay around 40-65 EUR per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, seasonal vegetables, rice, and some meat.

Backpacking the Netherlands Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking the Netherlands, expect to spend around 65 EUR per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, cooking most of your meals, using local transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and lounging in the parks.

On a mid-range budget of about 160 EUR, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, enjoy some fast food and other cheap eats, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around or rent a bike, and do more paid activities like guided tours and museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 280 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to explore, and do as many paid tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

The Netherlands Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While not the most expensive country in Europe, the Netherlands isn’t super cheap either. Here are some ways to help save money in the Netherlands so you don’t blow your budget:

• Limit your partying – Many people go to Amsterdam to party — and to smoke pot. While the city is cracking down on this, it’s still an unnecessary expense that can add up quickly. Limit your smoking (and limit your expenses in the coffee shops; you don’t need to buy something in every shop).
• Get the Museumkaart (Museum Card) – Good for one month for non-residents, this card gets you into several museums for only 64.90 EUR. You get access to 400 museums throughout the Netherlands and it’s good for repeat visits as well! If you’re visiting multiple cities in the country, this is a must! Compare the price to the museums you want to visit to see if it’s worth it for you.
• Bike everywhere – Biking is the cheapest form of transportation. You can rent a bike for only a few euros a day. While most Dutch cities are easily walkable, cycling is what the locals do. It’s the most bike-friendly country in the world so don’t pass up the chance to explore on two wheels. Prices average around 10-15 EUR per day but can be as low as 5 EUR.
• Attend a free festival – During the summer, everyone goes outside. Check local tourism boards for a list of free concerts, festivals, shows, and markets. Once the weather gets warm, the social calendar fills up!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a service that lets travelers stay with locals for free. It’s a fun cultural exchange platform that not only saves you money but connects you with a local who can share their insider tips. Since a lot of travelers use this service, make your requests for hosts early (especially in Amsterdam).
• Cook your own food – Dutch food isn’t going to win any culinary awards (sorry, my Dutch friends) so skip the restaurants and cook your own food. It saves you a ton!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in the Netherlands

Here are some of my favorite places to stay in the Netherlands:

• St. Christopher’s (Amsterdam)
• Hostel Room (Rotterdam)
• Stayokay Rotterdam Cube Hostel (Rotterdam)
• Pink Flamingo Hostel (The Hague)
• Kingkool (The Hague)
• Stayokay Utrecht Centrum (Utrecht)
• Hostel Strowis (Utrecht)

How to Get Around the Netherlands

Public transportation – It’s easy to use public transportation to get around the Netherlands’ cities. One-way fares in major cities start at 4 EUR. All public transportation uses an OV-chipkaart, which you can load with money. You can also get a day travel pass (starting cost is 7-9.50 EUR).

Bus – Buses are an affordable way to get around the Netherlands, but they aren’t as fast or efficient as the train. Flixbus is the cheapest bus operator. A trip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam costs as little as 3 EUR and takes just over 1 hour, while Amsterdam to The Hague can be done for the same cost and takes 40-50 minutes.

Train – The Netherlands is so small that all major tourist destinations in the country are within a 2.5-hour train journey from Amsterdam. The national rail system is Nederlandse Spoorwegen and their service is clean and efficient. Train travel in the Netherlands is a thing of beauty!

You can use the official rail site to look up itineraries and ticket prices. Intercity train tickets around Holland are cheap and cost between 10-20 EUR, though for super short distances, they can be as little as 5 EUR. Amsterdam to Rotterdam is 11 EUR and takes 40 minutes while Amsterdam to The Hague is also 11 EUR and takes 50 minutes.

The national rail service also has special tour programs for travelers. This gives you unlimited travel throughout a period of consecutive days (such as 3-8 days of unlimited travel in a 30-day period). There’s also the Benelux Pass, which gives you access to public transportation like trams and buses for a certain number of days. Prices begin around 109 EUR and go up to 206 EUR depending on how many days you want (maximum is 8 days in a month).

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Ridesharing – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by paying a small fee. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train and is perfect for medium and long-distance trips.

Bike rental – The Netherlands is one of the best cycling countries in the world and bike rentals here are cheap. You can rent bikes starting for around 10-15 EUR per day (sometimes as little as 5 EUR).

Car Rental – Car rentals can be as low as 25 EUR per day, but the bus and train systems in the Netherlands are so excellent and affordable that you really don’t even need to bother. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to the Netherlands

The Netherlands receives the most tourist traffic from mid-April to mid-October, but the real peak season is July and August. However, the weather is never very extreme, and visiting during the off-season or shoulder season is also worth your time. Prices are also a lot more affordable during the off-season, and if you come between mid-April and mid-May you can see the incredible tulip fields in bloom. Just bring a rain jacket.

The average daily summer temperature is around 19°C (67°F), but it can get a lot hotter than that during July and August. The average daily temperature in the winter is 2°C (35°F). Still, coming here during the Christmas season is always a good time as the cities light up with markets and festivities.

Since the Netherlands is located below sea level, you can expect to encounter a few days of fog or rain no matter when you visit. The winters can be damp as well. Be sure to pack a warm layer or two and a waterproof jacket if you’re visiting in the shoulder season or the winter.

How to Stay Safe in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel – even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks are rare, as is petty theft.

There are a few common scams around, however, such as people trying to sell you used public transit tickets or stolen bikes. Avoid interacting with them and you’ll be fine.

If you’re worried about other travel scams, you can read about the most common travel scams to avoid right here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

The Netherlands Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

The Netherlands Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling the Netherlands and continue planning your trip:

The 8 Best Hotels in Amsterdam

The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

Where to Stay in Amsterdam: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 34 Best Things to See and Do in Amsterdam

The 9 Best Hostels in Amsterdam

My Suggested 3-5 Day Itinerary for Visiting Amsterdam

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

HollandDreams

Province of South Holland (Travel Tips)

South Holland is one of the world’s most densely inhabited regions . The small province is one of the economically most important provinces of the Netherlands. Famous cities such as Rotterdam (Europe’s largest seaport) and Den Haag (seat of the Dutch parliament) can be found here.

The most remarkable thing about South Holland is that it has practically everything that makes the Netherlands famous ! Tulips are celebrated at the Keukenhof , windmills are marveled at Kinderdijk , cheese is admired and sampled at Gouda, Delft Blue pottery is honored in Delft, and so much more!

Besides, it’s home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, like Scheveningen and Katwijk , just to name a few. South Holland lies by the North Sea and is surrounded on the north by North Holland , on the east by Utrecht and Gelderland , and on the south by North Brabant and Zeeland .

In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best places and activities across South Holland. Whether you’d like to make a city trip, enjoy the beautiful nature, see Holland’s popular landmarks or just relax at the beach, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s start our list of things to do in South Holland with the cities. Rotterdam and The Haye (Den Haag) are the best known and most frequented cities in the province. But there are a few more (smaller) cities in South Holland that make a great citytrip.

Rotterdam is the most cosmopolitan city in South Holland. The city is famous for being the EU’s largest seaport, with the Port of Rotterdam stretching over 40 km. However, the city is also well known for its cultural diversity, riverbank setting, modern architecture, and maritime tradition. There is plenty to see and do in Rotterdam.

If you just have a couple of hours in Rotterdam, head to the Euromast observation tower. At 184.6 meters high, you’ll get a 360° view of Rotterdam. You can see the iconic bridge (Erasmusbrug), the Maas river, the city center and its parks as well as parts of the famous harbor.

If you have more time (a full day or a weekend), make sure to explore the sights and unique activities. Check out our tips for a day in Rotterdam which includes an itinerary for a daytrip (or weekend).

Den Haag (The Hague) is the capital city of South Holland and the country’s seat of government. Het Binnenhof (Inner Court) comprises a set of historic buildings, some dating back to the 13 th century. Although this is where the Dutch government conducts its affairs, many spaces are open to the public.

Next to the Binnenhof is Mauritshaus (Maurice House), an art museum that showcases the most notable collections of Dutch and Flemish works of art. More than 800 pieces by various artists from the 17th to 18th centuries are on display here.

What we like about Den Haag is the cityscape overall. Den Haag is a vibrant city with a blend of old and new architecture. The lively city center has plenty of opportunities for shopping, markets, as well as countless cafés and restaurants.

If you’re short in time, visit Madurodam . It’s an impressive miniature park where famous Dutch landmarks are shown as 1:25 scale model replicas. Scheveningen is very popular for a day at the beach and can be easily accessed from the city center of Den Haag.

Rotterdam or Den Haag? Both are world-famous cities in the South Holland province and both make a great day trip. So which city should you visit if you had to pick one? It depends. If you’re coming from afar, we would definitely recommend Rotterdam over Den Haag. However, if you’re on vacation in Scheveningen (for instance) and have limited time, it makes more sense to visit Den Haag.

Delft is a charming city steeped in history. It’s well-known as the home of Delfts Blue porcelain, painter Johannes Vermeer, and its ties with the Royal House.

The city is located between Den Haag and Rotterdam. What’s great about Delft is that you’ll get to experience the historical vibe which you won’t get in Rotterdam or Den Haag. Delft has many canals, historic mansions, and courtyards that contribute to the city’s old-world charm.

The Royal Delft Museum transports visitors to the world of Delfts blauw (Delft Blue), the world-famous white and blue porcelain. Here, you can visit the sole remaining 17th century Delft Blue ceramic factory and see painting demonstrations by Delfts blue craftsmen who still do everything by hand.

The city, however, is far from antiquated. It’s also home to the Delft University of Technology, which is regarded as one of the best engineering and technology universities in the world. With a little over 104,000 inhabitants (2022), Delft is a medium-sized city.

Since 1575, Leiden has been regarded as a university city. It’s home to Leiden University and the Leiden University Medical Center, both internationally known.

Besides its educational importance, Leiden is a wonderful place for sightseeing. What we love most about Leiden is the overall vibe of the city. It’s an amazing mixture of history, canals and culture.

Leiden revolves around its canals, and the city’s oldest neighborhoods are totally encircled by a network of picturesque waterways that formerly served as a protective barrier surrounding the city’s outer walls. As such, a canal boat tour is an absolute must when in Leiden.

Read more about this city in our tips for a day in Leiden .

Delft or Leiden? If you have to choose between Delft or Leiden, we would definitely recommend Leiden. Leiden is slightly bigger in size than Delft, but is more vibrant and has more sights and activities to offer.

Sandy beaches and clear blue water attract visitors from all over the country (and even from abroad) to South Holland. Beaches in South Holland are among the best beaches in the Netherlands . With a mainland coastline of over 60 km and several islands, South Holland is a great place for a beach vacation.

First, we’ll introduce you to a selection of beaches across the province. Secondly, we’ll share with you our recommendations on which beach you should head to, based on your preferences.

Scheveningen

Scheveningen is the most popular seaside town in the country. It has a long, sandy beach, an esplanade, a pier, and a lighthouse, so there’s much to do. You can swim, surf, jetski, play beach volleyball, and even bungee jump from the Scheveningen Pier. A visit can be laid back too. You can just lie on the sand and read and sunbathe or lounge about in one of the many beach bars that dot the area.

Scheveningen is host to many festivals, concerts, and beach events throughout the year. If you’re in the Netherlands during New Year’s Eve, try the nieuwjaarsduik (New Year’s dive). Although held in many places in the country, Scheveningen is the most popular place for this yearly ice-cold plunge in the sea. It’s been held here since 1965, and approximately 10,000 people participate each year.

Read more about this popular destination in our tips for a day in Scheveningen .

Katwijk aan Zee

If Scheveningen is a bit too busy for you, then head on to Katwijk aan Zee. Katwijk is a seaside resort that offers visitors 4.5 km of lovely, sandy beach. You can relax and enjoy the sea view from any of the beach pavilions, walk, hike or cycle around the area, or try any of the outdoor sports activities on offer.

Katwijk also has a great network of cycling and walking paths along the dunes. It’s a wonderful place to combine relaxing at the sea with biking and hiking.

Going on vacation with your dog? Then Katwijk is the place to be! There’s a large dog beach (hondenstrand) between Katwijk and Noordwijk (about 5 km long) where dogs are welcome year-round.

Learn more about beaches and activities in Katwijk here.

It offers visitors a long stretch of beach (18 km long!), so a wide array of water activities are available such as swimming, surfing, beach kite flying, etc. Ouddorp is also known for its square lighthouse, the Westhoofd , which sends its guiding light to ships on the North Sea.

Hoek van Holland

Although Hoek van Holland (Hook of Holland) doesn’t boast the country’s longest beach (3.5 km), it does have one of the broadest (250 meters). The beach is separated into three sections: the Large Beach , which has most of the facilities and pavilions; the Hoekse Beach , which is popular with water sports enthusiasts; and the Northern Beach , which includes a naturist section.

To the north of Hoek van Holland, you’ll find the small town of Ter Heijde / Monster which is a popular dog beach in the province.

Ouddorp is a lovely seaside resort located on the South Holland island of Goeree-Overflakkee.

It’s more remotely than Scheveningen and Katwijk, reason for which there are less visitors (and less issues with parking) here.

Sights and Activities in South Holland

In addition to large cities and cozy beaches, you’ll find plenty of sights and activities in South Holland. Below are the 3 most famous sights, which are among the best things to do in the Netherlands.

Keukenhof Tulip Garden

The Keukenhof is known as the Garden of Europe . Every year, between 1 and 2 million local and international people visit. People come here in the spring (end of March to mid-May) to admire the nearly 7 million flowers in full bloom at this time. You can see many different types of flowers in this spring park, but of course, the enormous diversity of tulips takes center stage.

Read more about this world-renowned flower park in our Keukenhof Tulip Garden article.

Gouda Cheese Market

Gouda cheese is one of the most popular cheeses in the world. It’s also one of the oldest cheeses still made today, with its first mention dating back to 1184! For this reason, and the fact that nearly 60% of Dutch cheese is produced in this region, Gouda city is known as the ‘Cheese Valley’. So if you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Gouda Cheese Market (Thursday mornings, mid-April to mid-September) and soak in a lively and traditional way of selling and buying cheese.

Our Tip : Take a guided tour of De Goudse Waag and learn about Gouda cheese from a cheese expert.

Kinderdijk Windmills

Windmills aren’t just a Dutch symbol. They are a testament to their ingenuity when it comes to water management. A third of the country is below sea level, so if the Dutch weren’t great at controlling water, at least a third of the country wouldn’t exist by now.

In 1740, nineteen stone mills were built in Kinderdijk to prevent the flooding of the lowlands. Today, it’s the only ‘windmill complex’ in the world, earning UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997. During your visit, be sure to check out the mill museums and the mill workshop to learn more about how the Dutch have been controlling water for centuries. You can also take a boat tour to admire these ancient windmills from the water.

Here’s more information on the windmills and travel tips for Kinderdijk .

Getting Around South Holland

Due to the importance and population density, South Holland has an excellent infrastructure network. Getting around is pretty easy.

If you plan to visit mostly areas in the Rotterdam and The Hague region, then we recommend using public transportation, as parking can be quite costy in cities. Purchasing a Tourist Day Ticket instead of the OV-Chipkaart (the country’s pass for public transportation) can save some money.

It’s best to explore the city center (e.g. Rotterdam, Den Haag, Delft) by foot. You can rent a bike to explore the outskirts.

One particularty about South Holland is the water. As such, there are plenty of boat tours available. Rotterdam also has the watertaxi which allows you to travel from one side of the Maas river to the other.

Places such as Kinderdijk and Keukenhof are also accessible by public transport. However, we recommend going there by car (if you drive).

Accommodations in South Holland

As we mentioned at the start, South Holland gives visitors a great chance to see all the things that make the Netherlands so unique. As such, you can expect accommodation options to be varied as well.

For example, sleep at a bed and breakfast directly on the beach; spend a night on a romantic manor by the river; stay at a water tower, sleep at an inexpensive hostel, or book a room at a country estate.  

About Kitty & Yogesh

Hoi! We’re Kitty and Yogesh, expats in the Netherlands. HollandDreams is a blog dedicated to traveling and living in the Netherlands. Together with our beagle dog Pépa, we travel across the country to explore exciting destinations and gather useful tips for travelers and expats.

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Southern Netherlands

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Catholicism
• 4.2 Carnival
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By train
• 7 Get around

The Southern Netherlands is a region quite unlike the rest of the country. Especially Limburg and North-Brabant are distinct for their historic background, Catholic culture and, in the very south, even the rolling landscape - quite unlike any Dutch stereotype. And then there's Zeeland , the province at the heart of the Dutch efforts to tame the sea. Historically one with the northern provinces, this sea side region has a culture of its own and is famously home to the impressive Delta Works .

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 51.588889 4.775833 1 Breda is a former military bulwark, Breda still has an historical center and military and industrial sights are (being) redeveloped.
• 51.434444 5.484167 2 Eindhoven , a city which gained its status due to the technology concern Philips. Is known for modern design, vibrant nightlife and, of course, technology.
• 51.7 5.316667 3 's-Hertogenbosch , the capital of Noord-Brabant, a well-preserved city known for Bossche Bollen (Chocolate balls) and St. John's Cathedral.
• 50.866667 5.683333 4 Maastricht , being one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Maastricht is undoubtly worth a visit with its cultural mix and foothills of the Ardennen (Ardennes).
• 51.499722 3.613611 5 Middelburg is a restful university city being the capital of Zeeland. The historical centre is well-preserved.
• 51.193333 5.987222 6 Roermond , a Limburgian town, dominated by the Munsterkerk (minster) and the Meuse. Its history was one of battles, while many buildings survived and form a monumental centre.
• 51.57 5.07 7 Tilburg , once the 'wool capital' of the Netherlands, Tilburg isn't quite historically because of much 1960s urban renewal, however, some monumental buildings, such as King William II's palace, still survive.
• 51.37 6.16806 8 Venlo is known for being a place visited by many Germans, however, the historical town centre is somewhat less than e.g. Roermond, it can't be ignored on transit to Germany.
• 51.45 3.583333 9 Vlissingen was once the most important harbour for international trade in the Netherlands, and still has an important naval function. Vlissingen (sometimes called Flushing in English) is also the birthplace of Michiel de Ruyter, the most famous admiral in Dutch history.

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 51.758333 4.758333 1 Biesbosch National Park — one of the last freshwater tide areas in Europe
• 51.65 3.72 2 Delta Works — the enormous storm surge barriers that finally ended the country's struggle against the sea
• 51.650278 5.048056 3 Efteling — theme park with fantasy elements like elves and dwarves
• 50.91256 5.87563 4 South Limburg — hilly green landscapes, picturesque villages, castles and orchards

Understand [ edit ]

Catholicism [ edit ].

The southern provinces have historically been the Roman Catholic area of the Netherlands, in contrast with Protestantism in the north of the country. That's still well visible in the architecture of churches and cathedrals, as well as in city centers. Nowadays, Catholicism is still the predominant religion in Limburg (where over 75% of people call themselves Catholic) and Brabant (just over half). It's said that the Catholic way of life brings a more bourgondic lifestyle to these provinces, especially in Limburg.

Try not to refer to the country as "Holland" here, as people from the south live in the Netherlands , and Holland is a synonym for the more northern and western parts.

Carnival [ edit ]

In Brabant and Limburg, Carnaval is celebrated widespread. The locals will either call it kèrneval (Brabant) or vasteloavend (Limburg) and mostly in Brabant, settlement names are changed into a funny name, such as Oeteldonk (Den Bosch) or Lampegat (Eindhoven). In Limburg, the Limburgish language names of the settlements only will be more visible, such as Remunj (Roermond).

In the last days before the end of the season on Aswoensdag , Ash Wednesday, many streets are decorated, and colours may depend on the street, neighbourhood, village or city. There also will be parades and people go to cafés in the late evening. Don't be surprised if shops are closed in these provinces on the last two days before ash Wednesday.

Talk [ edit ]

Although many people in the Southern Netherlands speak a regional or local dialect as their mother tongue, virtually everyone speaks Dutch and many people speak English and/or German too. You will however find a few distinctive language characteristics compared to Standard Dutch. Most notable are the use of a soft G, sounding like the German 'ch', and the general use of a guttural R. Especially for non-native speakers, this often strong accent can make Dutch harder to understand around here. Nonetheless, you're very unlikely to encounter any serious trouble in communicating.

A wide range of local and regional dialects are spoken throughout the region, although only Limburgisch has an official status. In some areas you'll find that e.g. street or town name signs are indicated both in Dutch and the local dialect.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

The Southern Netherlands are accessible greatly from surrounding regions. The A12, A1, A40, A2 and A25 from Belgium might be good options, as well as the German Autobahns 4, 61 and 40. From the northern side, the A29, A16, A27, A2, A50 and A73 form the main options. Keep in mind that especially the northern roads can get very crowded during rush hours, and traffic congestion is an everyday problem in the mornings and afternoons. There are typically no border controls or other hold ups when entering the Netherlands by road.

By plane [ edit ]

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is an obvious option for many tourists to reach this region, but especially when you're heading to Limburg, airports across the Belgium and German border offer interesting alternatives.

Eindhoven Airport is a smaller but fast-growing airport, offering many international links in Europe and budget carriers. Otherwise, Maastricht -Aachen Airport in the south of the Netherlands is a good option too. A bit further away, Düsseldorf Airport in Germany and Zaventem Airport in Brussels (Belgium) are major airports and offer ample international services. For budget carriers, try Dusseldorf Airport Weeze in Germany or Airport Charleroi in Belgium.

By train [ edit ]

From as well as Utrecht and Rotterdam, the first train stations, Breda and 's-Hertogenbosch are accessible four times an hour by intercity. Otherwise, multiple stopping trains go to the region. 1x per hour from Antwerp to Roosendaal, 2-4x per hour from Nijmegen to Brabant and Limburg, 1x per hour from Düsseldorf and Mönchengladbach to Venlo, 1x per hour from Aachen to Heerlen and 1x per hour from Liège to Maastricht.

From April 8, 2013, every two hours there is fast link (Fyra) between Antwerp and Breda.

Get around [ edit ]

All parts of the region are well connected by road, with many border crossings to Germany and Belgium and descent roads to even the smallest of hamlets. A car is therefore an excellent way to get around, allowing also for easy exploration of countryside sights and landscapes. Car rental companies are available from all large cities, local airports as well as in large tourist areas such as Valkenburg . When in doubt, ask the tourist office.

The region isn't too huge and except for the rolling hills of South-Limburg, the Southern Netherlands' terrain allows for easy cycling . Bike lanes and scenic bike and hike routes are available all around. The main bike route from one town to the next is typically indicated with red and white road signs, along with the car route indications.

The public transport network is extensive, and although buses and trains in the Netherlands are generally not cheap, they do allow for travellers to get around easily. Make sure to buy an OV-chipkaart , as that can be used on all buses and trains. Trains only serve larger and mid-sized destinations. The main intercity routes and some regional trains are operated by NS, while some others are operated by Veolia. Buses are operated by Veolia and Connexxion and serve pretty much every village around. Note however that especially more remote or small places are served less frequently (typically once per hour) and buses there don't run after 10pm or so.

See [ edit ]

The Southern Netherlands are, in general, a bit less about the clogs, tulips and windmill clichés than the west. If it's stereotypes you're after, however, there are plenty to be discovered. You'll find typical polder landscapes in the western parts and although not picture-perfectly lined up like the ones at Kinderdijk, windmills are available all around. Almost 300 operational mills remain in the region and, due to the less flat terrain, watermills are more common than in any other part of the country. The mighty Delta Works have become a world wide symbol of the Dutch efforts to tame the sea. This engineering project finally ended the Dutch' centuries' long struggle against the water in the highly populated south-west. It consists of multiple storm barriers at different locations, but the most accessible one (with a visitor's centre) is the Oosterscheldekering at the Deltapark Neeltje Jans . For a taste of Dutch maritime life, spend some time in the once prominent harbours of Vlissingen and Middelburg , or follow the crowds to small but pleasant Sluis . The historic fortified city Hulst (one of the best preserved in the area) is also well worth a visit and is probably the most 'Flemish' city in the Netherlands.

However, to see the best of this region, don't stop looking there. Make your way to the lush, rolling hills of South Limburg , a popular holiday destination for the Dutch but overlooked by the international crowds. Follow the Mergellandroute , a road-route leading along some of the best landscapes and timber-framed houses in the area. This is also an area heavy on castles , many well-restored and some open to the public. Kasteel Hoensbroek is a good choice as it is now a museum, Sjaloen in Valkenburg and Neercanne in Maastricht (now a restaurant) are other famous examples. The pretty castle gardens in Arcen are another fine pick.

While you're there, don't miss out on a day in the historic city centre of Maastricht , one of the most beautiful cities in the country and second only to Amsterdam when it comes to the number of monuments. Another fabulous city to visit is 's Hertogenbosch , which has a lovely medieval old town and a maze of canals under the city. For a more modernist experience, head to bustling Eindhoven , called the light city for its industrial history and widely known as the Dutch capital of design. If you're into modern art, make sure to visit the excellent collection of the Van Abbe museum here.

Lastly, the Southern Netherlands are home to some fine natural areas and parks. The Biesbosch National Park is a popular destination for the Dutch and one of the last freshwater tide areas in Europa. It is characterized by a network of large and small creeks and best explored by boat. If you like scuba-diving, try the Oosterschelde Nationaal park. Its salty waters are filled with sea life, including some unique regional species. The almost un-Dutch sand dunes and extensive heath lands of the Loonse en Drunense Duinen are surrounded by towns and get crowded on summer days, as it's a perfect day trip from any of those places.

Do [ edit ]

• Dress up and join the massive carnival celebrations that take over life in large parts of this region early in spring. It only lasts a few days, but for many people it's a highlight of the year. Watch a parade, catch some candies that the "princes" throw out and dance in the streets.
• Go canoeing . Whether it's in the Biesbosch National Park , the Maasplassen around Roermond or on the river Meuse near Maastricht , it's a great pass time and a fun way to discover the surroundings, even for beginners. If you're less adventurous, hop on a sightseeing boat in the same areas. Of course, other water sports are available too.
• Hiking and biking are highly popular. The several natural parks make for fine natural tours, but the countryside has some fine routes too, combining nice landscapes with heritage and charming villages. Where-ever you are, the local tourist information office will have all kinds of routes available, and almost everywhere you'll find there are indicated trails to be followed.
• Shop till you drop in modern Eindhoven , historic 's Hertogenbosch or Maastricht , or at the huge outlet centre of Roermond . The Southern Netherlands has plenty of shopping opportunities and, combined with the charming town centres, they make for fine days out.

Eat [ edit ]

There's no such thing as Southern Dutch cuisine, as the different parts of this region all have their own historic traditions and local produce. In Zeeland, obviously oriented on the sea, fish and sea fruits are a major part of traditional cuisine. Zeeuwese mussels are available all through the country in season, and the Oosterschelde, an estuary and national maritime park, is famous for the high quality lobster that is caught there. However, there's more than fish, as Zeeuws spek , a slow-cooked and seasoned bacon, has become popular throughout the Netherlands. On the sweet side, Zeeland is known for the Zeeuwse bolus or jikkemine , a sweet pastry of Jewish origin, as well as for regional butterscotch candies. Such sweet treats are popular tourist souvenirs.

On the other end of the region, Limburg has quite different culinary specialities, and advocates its large number of "regional products and dishes". In spring, green and white asparagus from Limburgian soil make their way to restaurant menus all over the Netherlands. There are clear influences of German and French cuisine, as the Limburg history is intertwined with both those countries. In the south, try zuurvlees , a specific kind of sweet and sour stew, a bit like some German kinds of "sauerbraten" but originally prepared with horse meat. Tête de veaux is another typical Limburgian stew, but this one has French influence and is made of veal and mushrooms in a tomato sauce. There are typical, regional kinds of salad olivier called koude schotel in Limburg and huzarensalade (which are different in taste) in Noord-Brabant. Head cheese is mostly a Limburgian thing, and although a peasant dish in origin, it is now rather a delicacy. Noord Brabant then again is known for its sausage rolls .

Travelling in Limburg, there will be no avoiding the regional sweet pastry: Limburgse vlaai , a pie or tart with a fruit or custard filling, typically eaten as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. Noord-Brabant's most famous sweet dish is the Bossche bol , a local 's Hertogenbosch pastry rather than a regional one.

Drink [ edit ]

The southern part of the Netherlands (in particular Brabant and Limburg) is best known for its beers , as a good number of the country's prime beer brands are produced here. The most notable examples are Brand, Gulpener and Hertog Jan from Limburg, Dommelsch and Bavaria from Brabant. The only Dutch trappist beer comes from Tilburg (also in Brabant).

When thinking of wine , few people will have the Netherlands in mind. However, over the past decades wine orchards have popped up all over the Netherlands. This is especially true for the south, where wine making first started in Roman times, and where this tradition was rediscovered and brought back to life in the 1970s. Still today, no other Dutch region has as many vineyards as the Southern Netherlands, with the largest production volumes originating in the rolling hills of South Limburg . Both in terms of quantity and quality, Dutch wines can't really compare to the massive and century old traditions of nearby Germany or France, but international tests are showing a steady increase in quality and some rather good examples. Apart from taste, the vineyards of course add to the charm of the landscapes, especially in the South.

In Zeeland, when you order apple juice, you've got a big chance you will get so-called Appelaere , which is a brand name from a company that offers a turbid apple-drink from local Zeelandic apple orchards.

Go next [ edit ]

Of course it's a short drive to all the major tourist attractions in the Western Netherlands . However, from anywhere in the Southern Netherlands you're a short tour away from great destinations in neighbouring Belgium and Germany . This is a typical example of the open European borders leading to an almost internationally oriented border region, with people living, working and shopping in neighbouring countries. Road and public transport connections are typically good.

From Breda , it's a 45 minute drive to historic Antwerp . Or, head to Gent or magnificent Bruges (1h and 1.5h respectively from Vlissingen and Middelburg ). In the very south, the tripoint in Vaals marks the place where the borders of the three countries meet at one point. This area is often called the Euregio . From here, you'll get to fine destinations like Cologne or Liege in just about an hour.

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20+ Netherlands Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: June 21, 2023

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There are few countries in this world that inspire whimsy and wonder quite like the Netherlands.

Just mention the name and your brain leaps to sprawling tulip fields, bright wooden clogs, picturesque canals & comically tall cyclists going at the speed of light.

Delightful imagery aside however, there are many simple Netherlands must-knows that elude first time visitors – from what the country’s actually called to all the secret ways to save on transport and attraction tickets.

Luckily, you’re here! And you’ve landed straight in the den of an immovable Netherlands fan who has gone crawling back six or seven times over the years for “research”.

And in this post I’m finally putting that research to use. Keep scrolling for a list of my best Netherlands travel tips and must-knows, sourced over a decade of first-hand experience.

Save this list of Netherlands Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. There is a difference between the Netherlands and Holland

For years, the name Holland has been used interchangeably with the Netherlands to refer to the delightful country we’re talking about today.

… I mean, even the country’s official tourism website is Holland.com.

BUT if we’re being technical, doing so is actually…. incorrect.

The reason is simple: the Netherlands is a country comprised of twelve provinces, only two of which (North Holland and South Holland) make up “Holland”. This means calling the Netherlands “Holland” would be like calling the entirety of the US “New England” or “the Midwest”.

… In other words, it doesn’t really make sense. And also isn’t fair to the rest of the country.

This branding crisis has complicated roots that I won’t get into here, but just know that there has been a movement lately to rebrand and remind people that the country is known as “the Netherlands”, not Holland.

So, keep that one in mind.

2. There’s much more to the Netherlands than just Amsterdam

A big reason why the name “Holland” has stuck is because historically, this has been one of the most visited parts of the country in terms of tourism (with Amsterdam, Rotterdam and the Hague all situated in Holland).

But as we now know, there’s much more to the Netherlands than just Holland, and far more for tourists to see than just Amsterdam.

So be sure to diversify your itinerary a bit during your trip! Given the compact size of the country and the ease of public transport, you really have no excuse.

From Amsterdam, you can reach tons of cool cities like Haarlem, Utrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Delft within an hour, all of which offer a calmer alternative to the crowded chaos of Amsterdam.

And those who dare venture further will find everything from adorable villages like Giethoorn and Valkenburg to picturesque beaches, islands and national parks all over the country.

… So yes, there’s plenty more places to see in the Netherlands than just Amsterdam. Be sure to take advantage.

3. Spring may be the best (though busiest) time to visit the Netherlands

In terms of when to visit, you really can’t beat Spring.

Granted, Dutch weather is notoriously hit and miss, meaning Spring time can yield just as many downpours as it does sunny days, but this time of year is the ideal period to catch those world famous Dutch tulips… and let me tell you, every bit of rain (and crowds) is worth it!

Of course, tulip season varies year to year so it’s tough to predict exactly when it happens, but if you are specifically planning a trip to see tulips, mid April is usually the safest time.

4. Winter or Fall are also great times to visit if you’re looking to avoid crowds

Of course, the major downside of Spring travel in the Netherlands is crowds.

Every year, millions flock to the country for a glimpse of those vibrant bulbs…

So if you value your personal space and sanity over cute photos of flora, my best Netherlands travel tip for you would be to visit during Winter or Fall, while steering clear of July and August, as well as school holidays like Easter because that’s when crowds and prices are at their worst.

5. Use 9292 to plan your journeys on public transport

In terms of getting around, public transport in the Netherlands is honestly a dream.

And one really great Netherlands transport tip I have for you is to check out the website/app known as 9292 .

This magic wizard app shows you all the best connections from Point A to Point B using Dutch trains, buses, and trams. All you need to do is enter your Departure Point and Destination, and it’ll even tell you how much it should cost (giving it a clear edge over Google Maps).

So, be sure to save it for your trip!

7. For ease, use your contactless cards for train travel

If you plan on taking trains in the Netherlands, one good thing to know is that Dutch train prices are fixed based on distance, meaning no difference whether you buy tickets ahead of time or on the day of (apart from a 10% off-peak advance discount if you book early enough, which I’ll discuss later).

All that to say, planning train travel in advance is much less important here than in some other countries.

To make things even easier, as of 2023, you can even use contactless credit and debit cards to pay at the fare gates, which means you can show up at the station without a ticket and go right through by tapping in and out with your card.

The correct amount will then be charged to your card automatically. It genuinely couldn’t be simpler.

8. Learn all the ways to save money on train tickets

As you could probably tell from my feverish rants, I’m a huge fan of train travel in the Netherlands – squeaky clean, easy to use and ultra widespread, with about 400 train stations across the country.

Sadly, there is a downside. Trains in the Netherlands can cost many a penny.

But before you start docking funds from your Stroopwafel fund, here are some easy ways to save money on Dutch train tickets:

• Off-Peak Early Booking: Often you can get a small discount of 10% for booking a digital ticket at least four days in advance for offpeak periods (meaning weekdays before 06:30, between 09:00 and 16:00, and after 18:30, as well as all day during weekends and public holidays).
• Off-Peak Group Tickets: Buying a group ticket for off-peak periods often means lower prices per person.
• Day tickets: Buying a day ticket means you pay one price and get unlimited travel during the day. This kind of ticket would be ideal for big day trips.
• Attraction / special deal tickets: The official NS website here has a page of special deals and offers, usually including admission to attractions with some food and the train tickets all for one set price.

9. Don’t miss the free train WiFi

Okay: last piece of positive Dutch train propaganda – there’s usually WiFi on board – just look for the network WiFi in de trein.

10. Dutch is the official language, but don’t stress about learning beyond the basics

Language-wise, the official language of the Netherlands is Dutch…

But honestly, it’s incredible how well some Dutch people speak English. Especially younger Dutchies living in big cities.

Not only do they have immaculate grammar most of the time – they get the slang, they get the humour… it’d be borderline enraging if it wasn’t so impressive.

So, that said – don’t worry too much about mastering Dutch before your trip, although knowing some basics like greetings and thank you ( dankjewel , pronounced “donk-yeh-vel!”) is advised.

11. Learn to pronounce the places you’ve visiting

Dutch is a tough language, and while you won’t need to learn everything during your visit, one important Netherlands tip I have for you in terms of language is to (at the very least) learn how to pronounce the names of places you’re visiting.

Because while Dutch people can speak phenomenal English, one area where they struggle is understanding mis pronounced versions of Dutch place names, because well, they know how to say everything correctly.

So, if you keep yelling “GEET-HORN” at them when they know it as “hyeet-hoorn” (with plenty of throat action), they may have no idea what place you’re asking about.

So if you need to ask for directions at any point, knowing how to pronounce names can be really helpful.

PS: It would be helpful to learn all the Dutch names of your destinations too, as trains and buses tend to display those rather than English names.

12. Don’t be shocked by Dutch directness

Much like German efficiency, Dutch directness is a stereotype that has a longstanding reputation in Europe. Most say it’s a result of Dutch culture’s emphasis on honesty… but for some first time visitors, this difference in communication may come off as harsh or rude.

Search up “Dutch directness” and you’ll be bombarded with tales from tourists and expats alike – from co-workers commenting that they hate your haircut to customer service professionals asking “what do you want?!”

And while I haven’t quite had this experience, it’s worth noting that Dutch communication styles may vary from where you’re from, so if you feel that someone is being abrupt with you, it could just be that infamous Dutch directness at play… so don’t take anything personally!

13. Visiting for tulip season? Book a photo session at a special farm

If you plan to join the flower-hungry army of tourists that descend upon the Netherlands every Spring, then here’s one important must-know: there are special farms you can visit that are made specifically for photos.

Why would you partake in something that’s so shamelessly vain? Well, it may come as a shock, but regular tulip farmers don’t take too kindly to strangers trampling their fields in search of photos.

… And simply admiring fields from afar isn’t quite the magical bucket list experience many hope for.

Hence, the establishment of photo-forward tulip farms! They really are the perfect solution. You pay a fee and get free reign at the tulip photoshoot of your dreams (filled with cute props and installations), and no innocent ‘made for sale’ tulips need to be sacrificed in the process. It’s a win win.

On my recent trip, I went to the Tulip Barn in Hillegom and had SO much fun. Truth be told, I might have even enjoyed it more than the famous Keukenhof gardens nearby…

On that note…

14. Beware that Keukenhof is a flower garden, not a flower field

Year after year, I hear accounts of disappointment from visitors to the Dutch wonderland known as Keukenhof, AKA Europe’s most famous flower garden.

The reason for their floral despair? The lack of sprawling tulip fields.

And, fair enough, marketing materials for Keukenhof (and 3rd party companies selling tours to Keukenhof) can be deceptive, so let me be clear right now: if your goal is to frolic through dreamy fields of tulip after tulip, Keukenhof is not where you want to be.

You can think of Keukenhof more as a manicured garden/flower show, filled with themed displays and installations. Is it beautiful? Of course! But the only fields you’ll see there are from a distance (or from a very sad little boat ride that circles them, with no possibility to stop or get out).

So before you book that (admittedly) pricey ticket to Keukenhof , know what you’re in for. My full guide to Keukenhof can help with that.

15. Book tickets for big attractions well in advance

The Netherlands is an amazing country to visit for culture lovers, with more museums and galleries than you could ever reasonably visit.

The good news is, there’s plenty of cool attractions to enjoy. The bad news is, you definitely won’t be alone in enjoying them.

So, especially if you’re visiting the Netherlands during peak seasons like Spring and Summer, make sure you book your must-see attractions in advance. For particularly big sights like the Anne Frank House, doing so weeks, if not months in advance, is necessary for avoiding disappointment.

And if you see skip the line tickets – treat yourself to them. Time is money!

16. Know where to find the best attraction deals

Another downside of major Dutch attractions? They can burn some deep holes in your wallet.

Unlike many other countries in Europe, I found the Netherlands to be lacking in age-based discounts unless you’re a literal child (meaning few discounts for students, youth and seniors).

Nonetheless, there are some other ways to save money if you’re crafty! Here are some:

• Sightseeing passes and cards e.g. the I amsterdam Card : Well worth it if you plan to do many attractions because it gives you access to multiple attractions for one set price. Be sure to crunch the numbers first though because the passes themselves are often quite expensive, and not worth it unless you’re doing a LOT of attractions.
• Bundle deals: Great for saving a bit of cash on 2-3 attractions. Be sure to browse sites like GetYourGuide or Tiqets , where there’s often deals that combine two or more attractions for a slight discount e.g. this ticket that combines the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam with a canal cruise.

17. Beware of bike lanes

Alright, now moving onto more practical Netherlands travel tips for when you arrive.

This one may be the most important one on the list. Please, for the love of Gogh, be mindful of bike lanes. They’re everywhere in the Netherlands because everybody and their mom here rides bikes, and it’s VERY easy to accidentally walk on one if you’re not used to them.

So, if you see any red asphalt paths, steer clear. Unless “getting run over by a bike” is on your Netherlands bucket list.

This is what bike lanes will typically look like, although the never-ending parade of bicycles on it will probably also be a good sign:

18. Don’t rent a bike in the Netherlands unless you’re super confident on one

While most tourist guides will recommend renting a bike to “experience the Netherlands like a local”, I’m going to take the opposite approach and say….. don’t. Save yourself.

As I’ve mentioned before, Dutch cyclists are next level. They practically exit the womb on a bike.

And they don’t have much patience for struggling tourists, so unless you’re an excellent cyclist who is familiar with the Dutch rules of the road, don’t rent one just for the experience, unless said experience is making every cyclist in the Netherlands hate you.

19. Bring cash

Another important Netherlands must-know? Make sure you always have a bit of cash.

While card payments are widely accepted in the Netherlands these days, the Dutch tend to prefer using debit over credit.

As such, you might have trouble paying with a credit card in some places, which is why I would recommend having cash on you just in case.

Up until 2023, some places would even only accept Maestro debit cards (which were previously only used in Europe). Luckily, they are now in the process of phasing them out , which means the Netherlands is likely to become a lot more Visa/Mastercard-friendly in the near future.

On my most recent trip, I noticed that my Visa credit card would randomly not work at certain supermarkets and shops, so for ease of mind, I’d recommend always having at least a bit of cash.

20. Bring coins for public toilets… especially if you’re a woman

Like in many other European countries, sadly public toilets in the Netherlands aren’t free, with toilets in train stations costing as much as 70 cents!

So, bring coins with you to make sure you have a way to pay.

While some of the more modern machines will accept card payments, I ran into a faulty machine that refused my card no matter what, so I needed a friend to let me in!

…. and yes, it was embarrassing, so bring coins to avoid being sad like me.

NOTE: Around the Netherlands, there actually are public urinals set up on the street that are free to use, but toilets for my fellow squatters are far less common, and far less free.

21. Bring a jacket with a hood

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned from my travels in the Netherlands, it’s this: prepare for rain. Random rain. And lots of it.

Bundled with vicious winds, Dutch rain can be brutal, and the best defence is (in my opinion) a solid jacket with a hood, rather than an umbrella.

After all, the only thing more embarrassing than needing someone to pay for your pee break is the walk of shame when your umbrella flips inside out.

So yes, bring a jacket with a hood. Even in the summer. You just never know.

22. Try all the best Dutch delicacies

Ahh, now onto tastier Dutch travel tips.

The Netherlands may not be particularly known for its cuisine, but there are a few standouts in my mind that are well worth trying for any first time visitor… usually in the calorically dense snack food category. I apologize in advance to your arteries.

Here are a few iconic Dutch foods/experiences to try:

• Hagelslag: Sprinkles usually served on buttered bread for breakfast. SO GOOD!
• Automats: Wall-mounted vending machines that serve hot food in little cubbies. It’s not the best food in the world but it’s a fun novelty that allows you to try some classic Dutch snacks like croquettes and bitterballen with minimal effort.
• Stroopwafel: Two thin cookies pressed together with a caramel filling, and sure to ruin your for other cookies. NOTE: Be sure to try a plain one first. Many places these days do fancy ones coated in chocolate and other toppings, but to me original is best.

Lastly, of course I can’t talk about Dutch food without mentioning the most famous street food – raw herring.

With stalls all across the country selling this unique delicacy, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try it. Just remember to eat it correctly – hold it by the tail and let it slide into your mouth and throat. Yum!

23. Know the difference between coffee shops, cafes and brown bars

Ahh, now THIS is a must-know for first time visitors to the Netherlands. If you’re drowsy and trying to caffeinate for the day, be very careful where you go, because “coffee shop” here doesn’t mean what you think it means.

… because that’s where marijuana is sold!

Sure, sometimes they sell coffee too, but their main purpose is trading cash for hash.

Further complicating things: don’t forget that there are also ‘brown cafés’ or brown bars, which are like cozy traditional pubs for enjoying a drink or two. Going to one is a must when in the Netherlands!

In summary:

• If you want coffee, go to a cafe
• If you want marijuana, go to a coffee shop
• If you want an alcoholic beverage in a pub-like setting, go to a brown cafe or brown bar

24. Plan around some cool annual events

Alright, are you ready for some insider Netherlands knowledge?

If you’re still in the planning stages of your trip, here are two annual events to have on your radar:

• Museum Week: Happens every Spring, where many museums nationwide offer free entry and special exhibitions/events.
• Open Garden Days: Happens one weekend a year in June, where many canal houses will open their doors to the public so you an admire their hidden gardens. One paid ticket gets you access to 30+ participating gardens! I happened upon this event one year and it was SO cool.

25. Be respectful of Dutch customs that are different to yours

Last but not least, it has to be said: the Netherlands is a unique place, with a lot of rules and customs that may differ from your home country.

For instance, many first time visitors are surprised to see that prostitution is legal in the Netherlands, or that marijuana is decriminalized.

And while surprise is fine, being obnoxious and vocal about these differences is not.

Remember, what seems utterly novel to you is just the normal way for locals, meaning you should be respectful, considerate and… not do things like take photos of women in Red Light Districts because of their perceived novelty.

Tourists (especially in Amsterdam) have developed a pretty nasty reputation among Dutch locals over the years, with multiple campaigns aimed at cracking down on ‘rowdy tourists’.

So, remember to be a polite guest and treat both locals and destinations with utmost respect!

I hope this list of Netherlands travel tips was helpful!

I admit this was a VERY long list of tips for Netherlands travel, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

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✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Netherlands

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Netherlands - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the Netherlands due to  terrorism.

Country Summary : Terrorists continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the Netherlands.  

If you decide to travel to the Netherlands:   

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by large crowds or foreign nationals.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the Netherlands.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

A passport must be valid for at least three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area . The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not accepted by Dutch authorities for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.

Two pages required for entry stamp

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy the hague.

John Adams Park 1 2244 BZ Wassenaar Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207

U.S. Consulate General Amsterdam Museumplein 19 1071 DJ Amsterdam Telephone: +(31) (0) 20 575-5309 (Emergencies involving U.S. citizens only ) Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209 (All other calls) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310-2209 Fax: +(31) (0) 20 575 5330 Email:   [email protected]  

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Netherlands for information on U.S.-Netherlands relations.  

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements

There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens. 

Visit the  Embassy of the Netherlands  website for the most current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .    
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket. 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

Dutch immigration authorities do not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into the Netherlands.  If traveling on this emergency passport, please be aware that you will be refused entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the United States is available.  We strongly urge U.S. citizens in possession of the 12-page U.S. emergency passport to replace it with a full-validity passport before traveling to the Netherlands by air. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the Netherlands.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Crime: While the rate of violent crime in the Netherlands is low, tourists are often targeted by pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves and are active in and around train, tram, and metro stations in city centers; and aboard public transportation, especially to and from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts you, often by asking for directions, while the other moves in on your unguarded property. Use your hotel safe, and keep baggage locked or secured when you are away. Avoid leaving valuables in automobiles, especially electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, GPS devices, and mobile telephones. Never leave your personal items or baggage unattended.

Most retailers in the Netherlands only accept a “chip and pin” card and will not accept a standard U.S. credit card containing only a magnetic strip. ATM and credit card users are advised to keep an eye on their cards at all times. If you feel uncomfortable using your card for any reason, use cash. Contact your credit card provider for further guidance.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 112 or 0900-8844 for non-emergency cases.  See above for contact information for the U.S. Embassy The Hague and U.S. Consulate General in Amsterdam.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes in the Netherlands.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

The organization Slachtofferhulp Nederland (Victim Support Netherlands) provides a range of services for victims of crime, traffic accidents or disasters within the Netherlands. For more information, visit their webpage .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is well-regulated and rules in regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide lifesaving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Despite common misperceptions, marijuana and hashish are controlled substances in the Netherlands, and although not enforced in defined tourist areas, possession is a crime that can result in a fine. “Coffee shops” are havens for petty criminals who prey on tourists and other individuals under the influence of drugs. Persons who visit “coffee shops” have become victims of pickpocketing, identity theft, sexual assault, and other crimes. Visitors are cautioned against using such substances, as they are often counterfeit and can cause illness or death. It is illegal to take any controlled substance, such as marijuana, into or out of the Netherlands.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in the Netherlands. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Dutch law guarantees equality and the right to access for people with disabilities. Information about accessibility in the Netherlands for travelers with disabilities is available on the Netherlands main online portal for visitors.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

COVID-19 Testing:  For information about COVID-19 testing in the Netherlands, visit the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport webpage .

COVID-19 Vaccines: The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in the Netherlands if they are residents.  Visit the Dutch government’s COVID-19 page for more information about obtaining the COVID-19 vaccine in the Netherlands. Visit the FDA's website to  learn more about FDA-approved vaccines  in the United States.  

Good medical facilities are widely available in the Netherlands. Pharmacies (“Apotheek”) are widely available and can assist with emergency prescription needs. Some common medications are not available in the Netherlands without a prescription, and some prescription drugs cannot be imported into the country.

For emergency services in the Netherlands, dial 112.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas coverage.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

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The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the Netherlands’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Netherland’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

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Your perfect Netherlands itinerary by a Dutch resident

June 19, 2019 by Karen Turner 36 Comments

After over three years of living in the Netherlands, I’ve been asked a lot about how much time to spend in the Netherlands.  A lot of people speed through the Netherlands only stopping for one day in Amsterdam , but I’d recommend enjoying at least 7 days in the Netherlands if you have the chance.  I’ll be covering the highlights of the Netherlands and tips for getting around the Netherlands in this Dutch itinerary.

I’ve focused this itinerary more on Holland as most of the attractions that people want to see are in this region, however I’ve included a couple off the beaten path Dutch cities that you might want to add onto your itinerary if you have more time and/or you’ve already covered most of the major cities in Holland.  This is based on my parents’ trip that I planned for them that they loved!

Many people don’t realize how small the Netherlands is.  It’s very easy to take day trips from Amsterdam to Rotterdam , the Hague , and many cities in the Netherlands.  To many people here, an hour is a long time to be on the train, so if you’re used to bigger countries, you don’t need to plan much because you can purchase a train ticket on the day of and they don’t sell out.

The tickets bought at the train station machines are not specific to any time, just the date, although I recommend avoiding rush hour. The maximum that you’ll pay is 25 euros each way on the train although in some cases, the regional buses might be cheaper!    You can read tips for finding cheap train tickets in the Netherlands here.

• 1 Three days in Amsterdam
• 2 Day trip to Zaanse Schans and Hoorn
• 3 Day trip to Haarlem and the tulip fields (April/May only*)
• 4 One day in Utrecht
• 5 Optional day trip: Cheese market in Woerden (summer only*) and Gouda
• 6 One day in the Hague
• 7 Optional: One day in Delft
• 8 One day in Rotterdam
• 9 Optional: One day in Dordrecht
• 10 One day in Den Bosch
• 11 Optional: One day in Efteling from Den Bosch
• 12 One day in Maastricht
• 13 What did you think of this Netherlands itinerary?

Three days in Amsterdam

I generally recommend having three days in Amsterdam. During this time, be sure to get a taste of Dutch food, wander around Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, glimpse into the sinful side of Amsterdam (if you dare!), explore the cool De Pijp district, and take in some of the incredible art at Amsterdam’s many museums.  As someone who lived in Amsterdam for a few years, I can promise that three days is the perfect taste of Amsterdam.

Many Dutchies will say that Amsterdam is not the same as the Netherlands and many joke that it’s the Disneyworld of the Netherlands.  Luckily, you are in the right place as I’ve designed an itinerary to show you much more of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam. My parents followed a very close itinerary and although they loved Amsterdam, they were blown away by the other cities.   Click for my itinerary for three days in Amsterdam.

In Amsterdam, I recommend staying at Max Brown , a boutique hotel in Amsterdam.  This stunning hotel is made of various canal houses sewn together along one of Amsterdam’s most scenic canals.  As soon as you walk by, you’ll understand why this is one of my top picks (as well as one that my friends have loved).  For something more budget, the Student Hotel is a great choice for an affordable hotel and StayOkay Vondelpark is a cozy hostel that another friend of mine loved staying in.

It is a lot cheaper to stay outside of Amsterdam, so it might be better to spend three days and two nights in Amsterdam prior to moving with your suitcase to the other cities mentioned here.  You’ll save a lot of money and have more time to enjoy these stunning cities without having to worry about heading back early! I include hotel picks for a few of the cities (with more recommendations within the dedicated city guides).

Day trip to Zaanse Schans and Hoorn

A lot of people have heard of Zaanse Schans. You don’t need to go with a tour as there’s a direct bus from Amsterdam Centraal to Zaanse Schans, which is included with an iAmsterdam card .

It’s free to see these iconic Dutch windmills although you will need to pay admission to visit the museum.   You won’t need more than two hours here and get here to avoid the crowds!  Afterward, head back to the train station near Zaanse Schans to catch the train to Hoorn .

Hoorn is often overlooked by people who simply don’t know about it.  Hoorn is a stunning city along the Zuiderzee that served as a major seaside port for many years.  The riches of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) resulted in ridiculously charming architecture.

When the Zuiderzee was cut off from the North Sea, the town lost its significance with trade. Luckily, dairy has become a major industry for the region.  It’s perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowds in Amsterdam.  If you can go on a market day, I highly recommend it!

Read a self-guided walking tour of Hoorn

Day trip to Haarlem and the tulip fields (April/May only*)

If you’re visiting the Netherlands in time for tulip season, you’re in luck!  The best time to visit the Netherlands to see the tulips is mid-April to the end of April. (You might get lucky with seeing the tulip fields in May).  Most people head to Keukenhof  to see the tulips, however, you can also find the fields in Lisse that are free to admire. 

You can follow this self-guided walking route that I’ve taken several years in a row to see the Dutch tulips for free!   Haarlem is very close by and it’s such a lovely city.

Haarlem is a beautiful Dutch city that is quintessentially Dutch.  There’s nothing like sipping on a fresh mint tea as you sit out on Grote Markt admiring the  St. Bavokerk .  It’s a really charming city to explore on foot. For science geeks, I recommend the Teylers Museum to understand the history of science. You can also take a relaxing ride along Haarlem’s canals prior to stopping off at Jopen, a brewery within a former church.    Click for my guide to Haarlem.

One day in Utrecht

Utrecht is one of those cities that leaves an impression on you.  This stunning university city has two-story canals that you can stroll upon as well as a stunning church tower (all that’s left of the grand cathedral that once stood there).  Utrecht is famous in the Netherlands for its foodie culture and you will not be disappointed after you spend a day exploring this historic Dutch city. Click for my guide to Utrecht and things to do in Utrecht off the beaten path. 

Optional day trip: Cheese market in Woerden (summer only*) and Gouda

If you’re looking for a Dutch cheese market, I highly recommend the one in Woerden.  It’s considerably less touristy than the one in Gouda as well as Alkmaar. Woerden itself has some unique attractions that you can see beyond the cheese market.

What I love about this market is that real trades occur, so you can watch the handclap method go on as the buyers and sellers bargain for the price.  They also provide free cheese samples.  It’s absolutely free, so if you’re visiting in summer, head to the Woerden Cheese Market .   On the way back, the train will pass through Gouda, which I recommend combining with Woerden.

Although the Gouda cheese market occurs on a different day than the Woerden cheese market, Gouda is a very charming and beautiful city.  It is where stroopwafels are said to be invented, so you must try a fresh one while in Gouda.

For history geeks, the city hall is considered one of the most beautiful ones in the Netherlands.  You’ll find lots of charming little streets and alleyways all throughout the city.  Click for my tips for visiting Gouda!

One day in the Hague

The Hague is now my home.  Although it has this reputation for being boring, a lot of people are blown away by the unique architecture (a blend of styles with a lot of Art Deco), the stunning canals, and the diversity of the city.  Here, you’ll find the Mauritshuis, where you can view the Girl with the Pearl Earring and other Dutch masterpieces, as well as Escher in Het Paleis . 

Be sure to explore Denneweg, one of the most stunning canals in the city, and consider heading to the beach in Scheveningen on a nice day.  (Yes, there’s a beach nearby!)

You can read my guide for a day trip to the Hague here!   I also have guides on where to eat  in the Hague, where to drink  in the Hague, and secret places in the Hague to visit.

Hotel prices in the Hague are incredibly reasonable and I’d recommend making it your base in Holland.  At the Student Hotel , you can pay as little as 50 euros for a clean, modern room with quite a few amenities.   La Paulowna Boutique Hotel  is my recommendation for those looking for a boutique hotel with a special touch.   You’ll also have views of the Peace Palace (shown above!).

Optional: One day in Delft

Delft is where the famous delftware is actually made, however, there’s much more to this charming university city than pottery.  As Delft is quite compact, you can spend even a few hours walking along its scenic canals, stopping for a coffee at its many modern cafes, and touring its two churches.  The city is far from stuck in time and you’ll most likely be as taken with Delft as I have been.  Click for my self-guided walking tour to Delft. 

One day in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is completely different than the rest of the Netherlands.  The city was almost entirely destroyed in World War II, so the city was rebuilt.  Rather than rebuilding in the previous style, Rotterdam modernized with innovative skyscrapers and experimental architecture.  If you’re looking for something different than the historic cities, you’ll find Rotterdam to be the epitome of cool with many districts full of great food and shops (including one actually called the Cool District).  Click to read my guide to Rotterdam.

Optional: One day in Dordrecht

If you’re looking for something quite different, Dordrecht is a really beautiful Dutch city that isn’t known to many foreign tourists.  It has a stunning historic center and it’s called the Venice of Holland.  I have to agree with this assessment as it’s easy to imagine the posts picking up people at the various docks throughout the city center.   Click to read about Dordrecht.

Note: If you only have a week in the Netherlands, you might want to limit your time to Holland.  However, if you’re continuing down to Belgium or Germany, I’d encourage you to see Brabant and Limburg.  These two provinces are often overlooked by first-time visitors to the Netherlands and they really offer a great opportunity to learn about Dutch culture!

One day in Den Bosch

Many people haven’t heard of Den Bosch.  This stunning city with a well-preserved medieval center was the home to the famous Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch.  Throughout the city, you’ll find stunning canals where traders used to transport their goods on.  Taking a tour of the Binnendieze is one of the most unique tours that I’ve ever taken and going underneath the buildings was so cool.

Beyond the beautiful architecture, delicious desserts, and its stunning cathedral, Den Bosch is a very alive city with many adorable independent shops and great food.  Hotels are quite affordable in Den Bosch , which makes it a great stop-off prior to heading down to Limburg.  I was here for one day and it left me wanting a lot more.  Click to read your perfect day trip guide to Den Bosch.

Optional: One day in Efteling from Den Bosch

Many people outside of the Netherlands have not heard of the Efteling.   This Dutch amusement park has its own distinct universe as well as style of animation is older than Disney.   I consider Efteling on par with Disney although the tickets are a fraction of the cost. (I’d recommend staying in Den Bosch as it’s quite closeby!)

Coming here will make you feel like a kid again, so if you’re looking for a fun day out after exploring numerous Dutch cities, consider taking a little break exploring Efteling.  You can read tips for visiting Efteling here.

One day in Maastricht

Maastricht is one the gems of the Netherlands, however most people don’t know about it and end up skipping Maastricht.  However, my parents considered Maastricht to be their favorite city in the Netherlands, even after several trips to the Netherlands.   You can click to read my guide to Maastricht.

You might be wondering what is so special about Maastricht? The historic city center has a mix of architecture styles, several medieval churches that have been converted into bookstores and hotels, and a rich food culture.  It’s also the perfect jumping-off point to head towards Germany as Aachen, Germany is only one hour by bus—and Liege, Belgium i s another hour away by train.

What did you think of this Netherlands itinerary?

Click for tips for finding cheap train tickets in the Netherlands , secret things to do in Amsterdam , traveling in the Netherlands on a budget , and the best day trips from Amsterdam.

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

October 20, 2018 at 7:52 am

It would be interesting to see what you could come up with for Friesland and Groningen

April 16, 2019 at 10:13 am

Try Bergen op Zoom in West Brabant

July 12, 2019 at 4:37 pm

Hello can you provide me November 7 to 14 I want visit Netherlands trip so I need day by day itinerary top place visit send me my email thanks .

July 30, 2019 at 3:32 pm

Hi, thanks very much for sharing your experience & summing up all in this wonderful itinerary. I am looking to travel to Netherlands and it will help me a lot. I have a query regarding ‘I amsterdam card’. I wonder if you know this. If I buy that card, would I be able to use the card for public transport outside Amsterdam. Like could I use the card to travel to Rotterdam from Hague & further on. Thank you

July 30, 2019 at 4:19 pm

Hi Dania, Unfortunately the iAmsterdam card is limited to the Amsterdam region (buses). For the Hague/Rotterdam area, there is a similar card (Tourist Day Ticket) for Zuid Holland sold by RET valid on public transit (not trains) that would go from Rotterdam to the Hague. That said, I’d recommend just paying out of pocket for the train tickets as it’s faster and usually cheaper than this card as the buses/trams are slower than the trains.

August 6, 2019 at 12:25 am

Hi Karen, I really want to get in touch with you. Do you have a facebook page, I can use to connect to you please? Thank you

August 6, 2019 at 1:08 pm

Hi, if you click contact, you’ll find my email. Thanks, Karen

October 22, 2019 at 2:34 pm

Hi Karen, My wife and I are going to the Netherlands in April 2020. This will be our 3rd time visiting but, we only stayed in Amsterdam. I really enjoyed this article and you have given me many new ideas. We are probably a lot like your parents, very interested in the history and architecture. We also are not big fans of crowds and tours, I prefer to go about on our own and kinda do our own thing. Getting lost is frustrating but fun. Could you possibly send me an itinerary that we could enjoy as your parents did. Thank You Jerry

October 22, 2019 at 5:00 pm

Hi Jerry, You’re welcome to steal this itinerary, which is very close to their own. They never got to Den Bosch, but mostly because they didn’t realize that it was so charming. It’s high on their list for the next trip. Any of these cities mentioned here besides Amsterdam should give you that experience. Most Dutch cities don’t really require so much effort to see, so it’s quite easy to pop off the train with seeing much of the city within one day. The links within the article will bring you to city guides that I wrote for each city that include my recommendations on historical attractions, food, and architecture. I hope this helps you plan your third trip. Feel free to send me an email if anything is unclear. 🙂

November 4, 2019 at 1:54 am

I enjoyed your itinerary. I am planning to visit the Netherlands and your itinerary is very helpful. Thank you.

December 1, 2019 at 7:45 pm

Hi Karen We are planning 10 day trip to Holland in April 2020 Can you please just tell which city to make reservations for hotels My understanding that to many cities we can just take one day trip from Amsterdam

December 9, 2019 at 3:24 pm

Please check my day trips from Amsterdam post for more info (near the end!). You can save a lot by not staying in Amsterdam and spending just 2 days in Amsterdam if that’s all you intend to do. Haarlem, Leiden, the Hague, or Rotterdam can be a good base if you want to get away from Amsterdam to save on hotels.

December 6, 2019 at 9:14 pm

Hi, I just came upon your blog post through Pinterest. Thank you for highlighting a few cities in The Netherlands that are usually overlooked and absolutely worth a visit. I believe you’ve given a lot of tourists an inspirational read and I hope those who plan to see Amsterdam within a day will rethink their itinerary. As a Dutch reader (living in the USA), I do have some feedback though: 1) Dutch people never refer to the provinces of Noord-Holland en Zuid-Holland as ‘Holland’ the way you refer to it. You almost make it sound like it’s a separate country. Perhaps clarify you mean the provinces? As Dutch people we don’t talk about provinces the way Americans talk about States. States in the USA are a lot more independent from federal government and different from each other than the provinces in the Netherlands. We would just talk about the towns themselves and that would be all. 2) ‘Efteling’ would be ‘The Efteling’. 3) Dordrecht is called ‘Venice of the North’, not ‘Venice of Holland’. 4) ‘Zaans Schans’ is spelled Zaanse Schans, we pronounce the ‘e’ and it cannot be left out.

Have you been the the northern provinces yet? Friesland, Groningen and Drenthe are absolutely beautiful as well. I hope you enjoy your time in The Netherlands.

December 9, 2019 at 3:19 pm

Glad to hear from you Marta! I wrote this with the hope of showing people more of the Netherlands in a realistic way as although there are so many beautiful places, most people have limited time.

I wrote about Holland in this way because of the other way that many visitors think of Holland. I live in Zuid Holland myself and agree a lot about the towns being more important than the province. I try to not to lump Holland together as an entity in my general writing and try to be more specific about the provinces, but this post is a bit of an exception.

Repoints: Ahh, fixing that spelling error. 😉 I realize that people call it “the Efteling”, which corresponds to the Dutch name, but the added the seems redundant in English.

I’ve been to every province of the Netherlands and fully intend on becoming a citizen in the near future. I must write more about the Northern Provinces as I went at a time that I was less active with my blog. A trip back is due soon to Friesland. I really loved it and I would plan to write about it once I have better photos to inspire people to visit. 🙂 Thanks for commenting!

December 26, 2019 at 11:43 pm

Hi, lovely cities and will certainly get a good feel of the Netherlands. As a vivid traveller myself, I love diversity and would long for some green between all the beautiful architecture. If time, and physical health, lets you, I would recommend a bike ride or hike /stroll through ‘De Hoge Veluwe’ and eat apple pie, along the coast and a beverage in a beach house, perhaps even ‘Wadlopen. Have a haring or kibbeling while you’re at the sea. De Bieschbosh may be more central if you are staying in de Randstad (the bigger cities in de west) and can be combined with a visit Rotterdam (then take the boat from Rotterdam as extra!) for instance. Oh, if you do go to Rotterdam, stop for a beer tasting at the Pheonix factory. And in Utrecht; you can combine this on same day and go canooing at Rhijnouwen in summer. Also, if you have a car; Volendam or Marken, Kasteel Muiderslot are great stops for couple of hours.

Some of my personal favorites. Believe these options all make your already great itinerary more divers and will give you a more complete overview of the Netherlands.

December 26, 2019 at 11:45 pm

Hoge Veluwe should be combined with Kroller Muller; the second biggest van Gogh collection, but the building and environment add to the experience!

December 12, 2020 at 7:31 am

Hi Karen We are planning 7 days trip to Netherlands in June 2021 Can you please just tell which city to make reservations for hotels June 9 to 15 I want visit Netherlands trip so I need day by day itinerary top place visit send me my email thanks .

March 19, 2021 at 3:02 pm

It depends on you and how much you want to travel by train. I already have my recommendations in the article! 🙂

August 16, 2021 at 7:23 pm

Karen, It looks like I will have 8 days available. I will spend 3 nights in Amsterdam. I’d love to visit all the other locations outlined here, but don’t want to constantly move around. Do you recommend one of the other smaller cities as a home base to travel to the others? Thanks Maurita

January 30, 2022 at 6:44 pm

Hi, I’ll be booking Amsterdam soon for 6 nights. I plan on doing nothing too much the first day, because of a long flight. I plan to have 3 1/2 days touring Amsterdam and doing 2 days hoping on a train to explore. I had in mind Delft, Haarlem, Utrecht, Maastricht. But, I only have time for two places. I spent hours watching YouTube of these cities and reading reviews in travel forums. I’m having a hard time narrowing down 2. I’m not really into visiting anything like museums, I’m more into shops, coffee, lunch, scenery, taking walking, Maybe walk in a church. I really need help! Appreciate if you could help choose two.

March 17, 2022 at 10:13 pm

I am a bit slow in responding, but all are lovely. Maastricht is too far. I would say that Utrecht and Haarlem are the easiest to do!

March 15, 2022 at 9:14 pm

Hi Karen, my husband and I are visiting Holland for 9 days in June/July with our bikes. We land in Ijmuigen and are looking for advice on where to stay and visit. Can you help?

March 17, 2022 at 9:20 pm

I would recommend Haarlem, but there are lots of cute cities nearby if you prefer a smaller town vibe. 🙂 Alkmaar is nice too!

April 13, 2022 at 9:37 pm

Hi there. I’m coming to Amsterdam next week and I have one day alone before my group joins me. With the group we are doing the tulip gardens and parades and canal tour and Anne Frank house and some museums. I am trying to decide what would be a good way for me to spend the day alone. I’ll be staying by the airport but have thought of travelling into Utrecht, or over to Noord-Harlem or Harleem. I don’t know what I can pack into a day and I fear getting lost as well. Do you think I could do those three cities in a day? Or do you have a recommendation? Or should I just get a bike in Amsterdam and get lost? I appreciate any help. And thank you!

April 21, 2022 at 2:42 pm

Hi Annette, I hope that I am not too late, but the train is really simple (download the NS app or just go to the train station to buy a round-trip ticket). It is very hard to get lost in a Dutch city as the signage is really good. I would recommend Haarlem or Leiden if you are by the airport and it should be enough for a relaxing afternoon. You’ll probably see a lot with the group, so better to pick one place that you won’t visit with them. 🙂

April 27, 2022 at 4:48 pm

Hi Karen. So happy to find your info about the Netherlands. I am planning a 2 week trip for 4 in june and have reservations for all but the last 3 days. We’re in Breda for a couple of nights visiting my daughter’s partner’s family after going north from Amsterdam and around through Harlingen and Otterlo. We will be driving and visiting museums and parks along the way. We have to catch a flight early on the 4th day from schiphol so we can’t go too far. I am spending time in Utrecht before I meet with the others. So would staying in Breda and making day trips be the best use of our last 3 days? We are outdoor types and enjoy hiking, biking and sailing. Thanks so much. We are really excited about seeing the Dutch homelands.

May 5, 2022 at 2:11 pm

Hi Dana! Breda is a nice hub for some cities, but maybe a little far for where you want to go (although possible). Sounds like a lovely trip and maybe worth getting a hotel / car along the way to maximize your time rather than driving more!

April 29, 2022 at 4:30 am

Karen, we get off riverboat cruise on Nov 17 in Amsterdam(have visited this city before). Would you recommend Harlem or Ulreght as a hub to stay at, and then we day trip by rail to other towns? Time is flexible at this stage but we thought 5-7 days? From new Zealand we are not used to hard winter weather, so your guidance would be welcomed

May 5, 2022 at 2:12 pm

Hi Tom, November is definitely chilly and wet (although often not snowy). Yeah, traveling by train is a great idea! Utrecht is a better hub! Hope you have a great trip!

November 26, 2022 at 7:39 am

Your itinerary gives great insights. If we want to take unlicensed transport and minimise moving from hotel to hotel, which 2 cities are the best to stay so that we get to travel to all the places in this itinerary?

November 26, 2022 at 7:40 am

Sorry I meant public transport

December 1, 2022 at 8:28 pm

Utrecht or The Hague!

January 17, 2023 at 12:24 am

Thanks for this great guide! I will be going to Amsterdam for the 2nd time in May for one week. In your itinerary, you mention day trips to Zaanse and Harlem for tulips, I was wondering if those day trips were included in staying 3 days in Amsterdam? So I would be spending 2/3 days in Zaanse and Harlem. I see a lot of tours to Zaanse and I was wondering if you think it’s worth it to pay for a tour of the windmills/cheese and fishing market?

February 1, 2023 at 2:11 pm

I think three days in Amsterdam is ideal before doing a few day trips, but it is up to you as it is your trip. You can do a tour if you are tight on time, but it is easy enough to do a tour on your own of Zaanse Schaans and Haarlem using public transit. Zaanse Schans involves a bit more walking without a car, but it is very doable.

February 5, 2023 at 4:45 pm

Karen – thank you so much for sharing this great itinerary. I’ll be visiting in July and would love to see everything you mentioned. Unfortunately, I’ll only have a week. Can you recommend pairing any towns that could be seen and enjoyed in one day? Thanks!

April 3, 2023 at 3:20 pm

Lots of towns. The Hague, Utrecht, or Haarlem are great! 🙂

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

23 Mar 2023

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

Top 22 Places To Visit In Netherlands

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

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

1. Amsterdam: A Beautiful City

Image Source

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

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

Must Read: Nightlife In Amsterdam

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2. Delft: Celebrate The Artwork

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

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

3. Rotterdam: Perfect Blend Of History & Culture

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

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

Suggested Read: Beaches In Netherlands 

4. The Hague: For A Vibrant Nightlife

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

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

5. Maastricht: With A Medieval-Era Architecture

Image Credit: Turkish414 for Pixabay

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

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

Suggested Read: Best Places For Bachelor Party 

6. Edam: A Tourist’s Personal Favorite

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

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

7. Eindhoven: Explore The Museums

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

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

Suggested Read: Cruises In Netherlands 

8. Leiden: For A Scenic Experience

Image Credit: Csupordezso for Pixabay

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

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

9. Utrecht: Explore The Incredible Architecture

Image Credit: Edwin for Pixabay

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

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

Suggested Read: Castles In Netherlands 

10. Giethoorn: For Super Scenic Waterways

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

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

11. Leeuwarden: Your Offbeat Destination

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

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

Suggested Read: Honeymoon Destinations

12. Haarlem: A Medieval City

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

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

13. Groningen: Experience The Splendid Canals

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

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

Suggested Read: Churches In Netherlands 

14. Middelburg: An Old Town In Netherlands

Image Credit: Djedj for Pixabay

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

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

15. Volendam: Of The Most Charming Places 

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

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

Suggested Read: Best Places To Spend Christmas In Europe

16. Kinderdijk: Discover The Rural Village

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

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

17. Thorn: A Picture-Perfect Destination

Image Credit: ID 12019 for Pixabay

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

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

Suggested Read: Amsterdam In March

18. Alkmaar: Know More About Dutch Architecture

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

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

19. Breda: A Place With A History

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

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

Suggested Read: Shopping In Netherlands

20. Gouda: Famous For Its World-Class Cheese

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

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

21. Arnhem: An Old Settlement

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

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

Suggested Read: Beaches In Amsterdam 

22. Texel: Dive Into The Culture

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

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

Further Read: Most Popular Europe Trips 

The Netherlands is an amazing city to visit for a vacation. It’s fascinating history, couple with its cozy weather and the innumerable activities which visitors can engage in gives anyone lots of options to explore. All these best places to visit in Netherlands await you for the most unforgettable vacation of your lives! Pick your favorite destination and book for your trip to Netherlands  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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Look at a map and you’ll see that the southern part of the Netherlands doesn’t make much geographical sense at all: in the west it’s all islands and rivers, while in the east a dangling sliver of land hooks deep into Belgium, its shape defined by centuries of dynastic wrangling. The west, which comprises the province of Zeeland , is classically Dutch, the inhabitants of its small towns and villages spending much of their history either at sea or keeping the sea away from hearth and home. Zeeland suffered its last major flood in 1953 and it was this disaster that kick-started the Delta Project, whose complex network of dykes, dams and sea walls, completed in 1986, has prevented any watery repetition. Zeeland has mile upon mile of sandy beach and wide-open landscapes, but many of its old towns and villages have been badly mauled by the developers. Two have, however, survived – Middelburg , with its splendid old centre, and Veere , every inch a nautical, seafaring port.

Pinkpop Festival

A scenic cycle in south limburg, noord-brabant.

Inland lies Noord-Brabant , whose arc of industrial towns long bore the brunt of the string of invading armies who marched up from the south. Each of these towns has lots of history but not much else, though both Breda and ’s-Hertogenbosch have fine churches. Noord-Brabant’s largest town is Eindhoven , home to the multinational electrical company Philips, and from here it’s just a few kilometres to the region’s third province, Limburg , which was badly damaged in World War II. Limburg’s capital and principal attraction is Maastricht , a city of vitality and virtuosity, which comes complete with a lively restaurant and bar scene as well as a set of first-rate medieval buildings.

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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.

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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.

Pressed between Belgium and Germany, Limburg , the Netherlands’ southernmost province, is shaped like an hourglass and is only 13km across at its narrowest. By Dutch standards, this is a geographically varied province: the north is a familiarly flat landscape of farmland and woods until the town of Roermond , where the River Maas loops and curls its way across the map; in the south, and seemingly out of nowhere, rise rolling hills studded with vineyards and châteaux. The people of Limburg are as distinct from the rest of the Netherlands as their landscape – their dialects incomprehensible to “Hollanders”, their outlook more closely forged by Belgium and Germany than the distant Randstad. Nowhere is this international flavour more apparent than in the main city of Maastricht, while South Limburg’s distinctive, and notably un-Dutch, atmosphere makes it popular with tourists from the rest of the Netherlands, who head to its many caves and scenic cycle routes, and visit its resorts such as Valkenburg . North and central Limburg are less colourful, but still have some places that are well worth visiting. Venlo , with its stunning Stadhuis, is a good starting point for heading on to the National War and Resistance Museum , and Roermond makes a good base to explore the National Park de Meinweg .

What started as a small gathering over forty years ago is now in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest unbroken festival in Europe. Limburg’s Pinkpop ( w pinkpop.nl ), a three-day event starting on Whitsun, has its roots in Geleen but soon moved to Landgraaf , close to the German border, where it grew into a festival attracting more than 90,000 alternative pop and rock fans. It’s hosted many big names, from Elvis Costello to Lenny Kravitz and from the Counting Crows to Bruce Springsteen, and has always been a trendsetter for other festivals in the country. Traditionally Monday is the busiest day. Die-hards who don’t want to miss a thing can stay on the purpose-built campsite on the premises; if that’s not your thing, be sure to book accommodation ahead. During the festival, frequent trains connect Maastricht and Heerlen to Landgraaf station, from where a shuttle service will take you to the festival site.

On a leisurely cycle route east from Maastricht to Vaals, right on the German border, scenic villages nestle among vineyards and orchards, linked by quiet lanes dotted with shrines. Cycling is a perfect way to appreciate this rolling landscape and its un-Dutch hills. Pick up a Limburg province map from Maastricht tourist office, and allow a day for this seventy-kilometre round trip.

From Maastricht train station, follow the river south to Gronsveld , picking up signs to the eleventh-century village of St Geertruid. The road snakes over hills draped with vineyards before swooping into the villages of Mheer , Noorbeek and Slenaken – all very pretty and popular. At Slenaken, the road develops some hairpin tendencies as it climbs the valley side above. Continue through Eperheide and Epen , with sweeping views across to the rolling valleys of Belgium on the right. Between Epen and Vaals , there’s a gradual eight-kilometre climb on narrow roads, winding between woods of red oaks. From Vaals, you can do an extra six-kilometre round trip to the highest point in the Netherlands (a lofty 321m): follow the signs to the Drielandenpunt , where three flags in a graffiti-covered concrete block mark the meeting of the borders of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Otherwise, follow the main road out of Vaals (there’s a dedicated cycle lane), turning left to Vijlen . Surrounding you is a panoramic view over Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, beautiful on a clear day. From Mechelen and Gulpen , you’re within striking distance of Valkenburg to the north, approached through the old town. Climb the steep but brief Cauberg hill to return to Maastricht, enjoying a speedy descent between orchards and farmland with the city locked in your sights. Once on the outskirts, follow the cycle route signs to bring you back to the station.

An alternative (and shorter) return route is to continue from Gulpen to Maastricht on a straight route via Margraten and Cadier-en-Keer .

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 literally buzzes with excitement and its multilingual, multinational population epitomizes the most positive aspects of the European Union.

Though its claim to be the oldest town in the Netherlands is disputed by Nijmegen, Maastricht was certainly settled by the Romans , who took one look at the River Maas and dubbed the town Mosae Trajectum or “Crossing of the Maas”. An important stopoff 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. A millennium later, 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.

Maastricht has also had its hard times, hitting the economic skids in the 1970s after the last of the region’s coal mines closed, but its fortunes have been revived by a massive regeneration scheme, which has pulled in foreign investors by the busload. The town is now popular as a day-trip destination with the Dutch, the Germans and the Belgians, and it is also home to students from around the world studying at over forty international institutes, including the European Journalism Centre and the University of the United Nations. Redevelopment continues apace today with the addition of ’t Bassin , a spruced-up inland harbour north of the Markt, with a handful of restaurants, cafés and galleries. The most recent construction in the centre of town is the Mosae Forum , a shopping centre with an attractive blend of classical and modern architecture. Finally, Maastricht is especially appealing during Carnival , with colourful parades and locals and visitors alike dressed up in the most creative outfits, mostly handmade.

Preuvenemint

Maastricht is known as the culinary capital of the Netherlands, and never more so than during Preuvenemint , an annual four-day culinary event held on the last full weekend in August ( w preuvenemint.nl ), when Vrijthof square is filled with over thirty stands functioning as restaurants. “Preuvenemint” is a contraction of the Maastricht words “ preuve ” (to taste) and “ evenemint ” (event), and it’s a great way to explore the richness of Dutch cuisine. The main attraction, though, has to be the crowd the event attracts. Posh Maastricht comes out to show off its latest purchases, but also to contribute to a good cause, since all the proceeds go to charity.

TEFAF art and antiques fair

Once a year, art and antique lovers gather at the TEFAF fair ( w tefaf.com ), held in the congress centre (MECC) in Maastricht. From its modest beginnings in 1975 when it specialized in old master paintings, the TEFAF now claims to be the world’s leading fine art and antiques fair, attracting visitors from all over the world. It usually takes place in March, but check the exact dates on the website. Even if you’re not an art lover it’s worth noting the dates, as finding accommodation is almost impossible when it’s on.

Noord-Brabant , the Netherlands’ largest province, stretches from the North Sea to the German border. Woodland and heath make up most of the scenery, the gently undulating arable land in striking contrast to the watery polders of the west. While it’s unlikely to form the focus of an itinerary, the instantly likeable provincial capital of Den Bosch is well worth an overnight visit, as is Breda , whose cobbled and car-free centre enjoys a lively market that pulls in the crowds from far and wide. In contrast, Eindhoven lacks the historic interest of these towns, as hardly anything here was spared during World War II. It is, however, renowned for its modern architecture and design and has a fairly vibrant nightlife. North of Tilburg is the province’s other highlight, for kids at least – the Efteling theme park, set deep in the woods.

Originally part of the independent Duchy of Brabant, Noord-Brabant was occupied by the Spanish, and eventually split in two when its northern towns joined the revolt against Spain. This northern part was ceded to the United Provinces in 1648; the southern half formed what today are the Belgian provinces of Brabant and Antwerp. The Catholic influence is still strong here: the region takes its religious festivals seriously and if you’re here in February and March, the boozy carnivals (especially in Bergen-op-Zoom and Den Bosch) are must-sees. Towns even change their names for the occasion: Den Bosch becomes Oeteldonk, Tilburg is Kruikenstad and people in Bergen-op-Zoom live in Krabbegat during the festivities. The tradition derives from the Burgundy version of carnival, and the names refer to what the main industry of the cities used to be: Eindhoven, for example, becomes Lampegat, referring to Philips producing light bulbs.

Bergen-op-Zoom

Bergen-op-Zoom , just 30km north of Antwerp, is an untidy town, a jumble of old and new buildings that are the consequence of being shunted between various European powers from the sixteenth century onwards. In 1576 Bergen-op-Zoom sided with the United Provinces against the Spanish and as a result was under near-continuous siege until 1622. This war-ravaged theme continued thereafter: the French bombarded the city in 1747 and took it again in 1795, though it managed to withstand a British attack in 1814. Bergen-op-Zoom’s saving grace is its famous February carnival when almost every inhabitant – as well as revellers from all over Europe – joins in the Tuesday procession. It’s a great time to be in the town, although you won’t find any accommodation – the whole place gets packed out – so just do as the locals do and party all night.

Breda , 20km west of Tilburg, is one of the prettier towns of Noord-Brabant, a pleasant, easy-going place to while away a night or two. A magnificent Gothic cathedral looms above the three-storey buildings that front its stone-paved main square, which is crammed with stallholders and shoppers on market days. There’s a range of well-priced accommodation here too, plus inexpensive restaurants and lively bars, though ultimately it’s less appealing than Den Bosch as a base for exploring central Noord-Brabant.

Breda also has an excellent carnival , which is celebrated with vim and gusto, and a top-notch, four-day annual jazz festival ( w bredajazzfestival.nl ), when some twenty stages are scattered around the centre; it usually starts on Ascension Day.

The Grote Kerk

Opened in January 1943, Camp Vught was the only official SS concentration camp in the Netherlands, modelled on camps in Germany. It was divided into two sections, one for political prisoners brought here from Belgium and the Netherlands, the other for Jews, who were, for the most part, subsequently moved to Westerbork before being transported on to the death camps in the east. Predictably, many people died here in the cruellest of circumstances or were executed in the woods nearby. Although it’s a reconstruction, and only a fraction of the size it used to be, Camp Vught still makes a vivid impression. Next to the old camp are the walls of a high security prison, giving the location a rather eerie feel.

Eindhoven is not your typical Dutch city and has few historical sights of interest. This is mainly because the town – which was granted city rights in 1232 – only grew to any size in the twentieth century: in 1900 Eindhoven’s population was approximately 4700, but a century later it had passed 200,000, making it the country’s fifth largest city. What happened in between was Philips , the multinational electrical firm: the town is home to Philips’ research centre (the manufacturing plant had such trouble recruiting here, it relocated to Amsterdam), and the name of Eindhoven’s benevolent dictator is everywhere – on bus stops, parks, even the stadium of the famous local football team, PSV Eindhoven. The town even moved the main train station (in the shape of a Philips transistor radio) to make sure all the company’s employees could get to work faster.

What little there was of old Eindhoven was bombed to smithereens during World War II, but being a very modern city does have its advantages, with a leading modern design academy and many hi-tech multinationals based here. The annual internationally renowned Dutch Design Week draws almost 80,000 visitors, and all sorts of design projects can be found around town. The technical university draws in many international students making nightlife vibrant, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.

’s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch) and around

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. The town’s full name – “the Count’s Woods” – dates from the time when Henry I, Duke of Brabant, established a hunting lodge here in the twelfth century. 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 – while its most famous son is the fifteenth-century artist Hieronymous Bosch . Den Bosch also makes a good base from which to visit the chilling Camp Vught , nearby.

Luctor et Emergo , reads Zeeland ’s slogan: “I struggle and I emerge”, a reference to the interminable battle the province has waged with the sea. As its name suggests, the southwestern corner of the Netherlands is bound as much by water as land. Comprising three main peninsulas within the delta of the Rijn (Rhine), the Schelde and the Maas, this cluster of islands and semi-islands is linked by a complex network of dykes. This concrete web not only gives protection from flooding but also forms the main lines of communication between each sliver of land. The northernmost landmass, Goeree-Overflakkee , a little south of Rotterdam, is connected by two dams to Schouwen-Duiveland , while further south are Noord and Zuid Beveland , the western tip of which adjoins Walcheren . Furthest south of all is Zeeuws Vlaanderen , lying across the blustery waters of the Westerschelde on the Belgian mainland.

Before the Delta Project secured the area, fear of the sea’s encroachment had prevented any large towns developing and consequently Zeeland remains a condensed area of low dunes and nature reserves, popular with holidaymakers escaping the cramped conurbations nearby. The province also has more sun than anywhere else in the Netherlands: the winds blow the clouds away, with spectacular sunsets guaranteed. Getting around is easy, with bus services making up for the lack of north–south train connections, though undoubtedly the best way to see these islands is to cycle , using Middelburg as a base and venturing out into its environs.

Cycling around Middelburg: along the Walcheren coast

The coast north and west of Middelburg offers some of the Netherlands’ finest beaches and excellent walking and cycling, although on midsummer weekends parts of it are mobbed with crowds of Dutch and German holidaymakers. Countless cycling options make the most of Walcheren’s handsome coastline, with plenty of refreshments en route. With limited public transport available to transport bikes, most routes are best completed as loops. As a rule of thumb, red cycleway signs indicate utility paths, often parallel to a main road, while the green signs denote more scenic alternatives.

Possible day-trips include cycling west to Domburg, picking up signs to the Domburg HI hostel and continuing through the woods to Breezand. A cycleway follows the polder to Veere, from where you can ride alongside the Walcheren canal, cutting back to Middelburg. Alternatively, pick up the same canal out of town to Vlissingen, joining the cycleway that runs between dune and woodland to Zoutelande and Westkapelle: there’s a fabulous stretch of dyke to cycle along in the direction of Domburg with spectacular sunsets out to sea and a photogenic lighthouse. A red-signposted cycle path leads directly back to Middelburg.

Cycling around Zierikzee

There’s plenty of scope for exploring the countryside and coastline around Zierikzee by bike. To put colour in your cheeks, you could follow the bike lane over the wind-tunnel-like Zeelandbrug , a graceful bridge that spans the Oosterschelde south of Zierikzee, and is one of the longest bridges in Europe, at 5022m. Refreshments are available in Colijnsplaat on the other side: prevailing winds will be against you on the way out, so you can expect the journey back to take half the time. Alternatively, Dreischor , 8km northeast, makes for a pleasant half-day bike ride from Zierikzee. Here, the fourteenth-century St Adriaanskirche is surrounded by a moat and lush green lawns, encircled by a ring of attractive houses. Complete with waddling geese and a restored travalje (livery stable), it’s an idyllic setting – although busy at weekends.

The Delta Project and the Delta Expo

On February 1, 1953, a combination of an exceptionally high spring tide and powerful northwesterly winds drove the North Sea over the dykes to flood much of Zeeland. The results were catastrophic: 1855 people drowned, 47,000 homes and 500km of dykes were destroyed and some of the country’s most fertile agricultural land was ruined by salt water. Towns as far inland as Bergen-op-Zoom and Dordrecht were flooded and Zeeland’s road and rail network was wrecked. 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.

The aim was to ensure the safety of Zeeland by radically shortening and strengthening its coastline. The major estuaries and inlets would be dammed, thus preventing unusually high tides surging inland to breach the thousands of kilometres of small dykes . Where it was impractical to build a dam – such as across the Westerschelde or Nieuwe Waterweg, which would have closed the seaports of Antwerp and Rotterdam respectively – secondary dykes were to be reinforced. New roads across the top of the dams would improve communications to Zeeland and Zuid-Holland and the freshwater lakes that formed behind the dams would enable precise control of the water table of the Zeeland islands.

It took thirty years for the Delta Project to be completed. The smaller, secondary dams – the Veersegat , Haringvliet and Brouwershaven – were built first to provide protection from high tides as quickly as possible, a process that also enabled engineers to learn as they went along. 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. It soon ran into intense opposition from environmental groups , who pointed out that the mud flats were an important breeding ground for birds, while the estuary itself was a nursery for plaice, sole and other North Sea fish. The inshore fishermen saw their livelihoods in danger too: if the Oosterschelde were closed the oyster, mussel and lobster beds would be destroyed, representing a huge loss to the region’s economy.

The environmental and fishing lobbies argued that strengthening the estuary dykes would provide adequate protection; the water board and agricultural groups raised the emotive spectre of the 1953 flood. In the end a compromise was reached, and in 1976 work began on the Stormvloedkering (“Storm Surge Barrier”), a gate that would stay open under normal tidal conditions, allowing water to flow in and out of the estuary, but close ahead of potentially destructive high tides.

Completed in 1986, the fascinating Delta Expo , signposted as Waterland Neeltje Jans, is on the Stormvloedkering. It’s only once you’re inside the Expo, though, that you get an idea of the scale of the project. It’s best to start with the half-hour video presentation before taking in the exhibition, which is divided into three areas: the historical background of the Netherlands’ water management problems; the technological developments that enabled the country to protect itself; the environmental consequences of applying the technologies and the solutions that followed. The Surge Barrier (and the Delta Project as a whole) has been a triumphant success: computer simulations predict most high tides, but if an unpredicted rise does occur, the sluice gates close automatically in a matter of minutes. If you cycle to the Expo on cycle route LF16, you’ll run alongside open beaches and dunes, past wind turbines and onto the storm barrier itself, with ample opportunities to peer into the sluice gates: allow for blustery winds on the way back.

Middelburg’s festivals

One of the town’s most colourful festivals is Ringrijderij , a horseback competition where riders try to pick off rings with lances. It takes place in August at the Koepoort city gate near Molenwater, and in the central Abdijplein on one day in July; check with the tourist office for dates. Another major draw is the annual Mosselfeesten , a weekend in the second half of July devoted to celebrating the arrival of the fresh black mussels, of which Zeeland is particularly proud. The festival takes place around the Vlasmarkt, with live music and restaurants offering their own version of this regional speciality.

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5 days in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for its rich cultural history, especially in art, painting and architecture. Its world-class museums, the Dutch Windmills, the city of Amsterdam, tulips, wooden shoes, cheese and canals are some of the things people know about this charming country. What they don’t know is that, this relatively small country is packed with many great attractions. Our suggested itinerary is designed to show you the best the country has to offer and what are the things you can accomplish in less than a week. Depending on your interests and travel priorities, you can certainly mix and match destinations, activities, and attractions.

Things to know before traveling to the Netherlands:

1.Language – The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch. English is widely spoken in Amsterdam, as well as other cities in the Netherlands, and you will have no problem when asking directions. It is recommended, however, to learn some Dutch phrases because Dutch people, like any other cultures, appreciate if foreign visitors attempt to speak their language. Some helpful phrases are as follows:

Hello = Hallo

Good morning = Goedemorgen

Good afternoon = Goedemiddag

Good evening = Goedenavond

Goodbye = Dag or doei (pronounced as doowee)

Excuse me = Pardon

Thank you = Dank u

Do you speak English? = Spreekt u Engels?

2.Money and Costs – The Netherlands uses Euros, the same currency now used by most European Union countries with the exception of Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Poland, Denmark, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Prior to travelling, you can buy some euros (enough for one day or whatever your preference) and then exchange your money in the banks to get the best rates. You can also use the ATMs, GWK exchange bureaus which can be found at the airports, major railways stations and in other tourist areas.

3.Etiquette – The Dutch are modest, tolerant and independent people. They are reserved and they value privacy. In social meetings, people shake hands with everyone present. Introduce yourself if no one is there to introduce you. If you are invited to dine out, expect the Dutch to say if they will pay the entire bill or they will let you pay your fair share.

4.Where to stay – There are many types of holiday accommodation in The Netherlands, from luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like youth hostels and bed and breakfast. There are also plenty of apartment rentals if you prefer the comfort and convenience of having your own place with cooking facilities. If you would like to get to know Amsterdam from a different perspective, then you can stay for a few nights in a houseboat which are fully equipped and centrally located.

5.Getting Around – Travelling in the Netherlands is relatively easy as all roads are well-maintained and the public transport system is one of Europe’s finest. Buses are the cheapest and most popular way of getting around. Trains are also popular because they are relatively cheap and much faster. Bicycle rentals are common in Amsterdam and other big cities.

6.Getting to Amsterdam –  Two words – Extremely Easy!  Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the fifth busiest airport in Europe. It serves as a hub for EasyJet which means plenty of cheap flights from all over Europe. Round trip airfare starts at 565 USD if you fly from New York, 611 USD if you fly from Hong Kong and 111 USD if you fly from London .

Detailed Day by Day Itinerary: 

Day 1: Amsterdam

Assuming you had to cross an ocean to get to The Netherlands, your first day will be rife with jet lag. Take a flight that arrives in Amsterdam Airport Schiphol as early as possible and check in to your preferred hotel/hostel. The airport is located twenty minutes from the center of Amsterdam and there is a direct railway line that connects it to Amsterdam Central Station . To walk off your jet lag, hit one of the quirky breakfast spots set on the edge of Amsterdam’s Baarsjes neighborhood.

Where to stay in Amsterdam:

The Toren ( Keizersgracht 164, 1015 CZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands ) The Posthoorn ( Prinsengracht 7, 1015 DK Amsterdam, The Netherlands ) Ambassade Hotel ( Herengracht 341, 1016 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands ) Banks Mansion ( Herengracht 519-522, 1017 BV Amsterdam, The Netherlands ) Crowne Plaza Amsterdam South ( George Gershwinlaan 101, 1082 Amsterdam, The Netherlands ) Hotel V Nesplein ( Nes 49, 1012 KD Amsterdam, The Netherlands )

In the afternoon, begin your Amsterdam tour.  There’s no better way to get acquainted with the city than canal boat cruise. Don’t forget to book your tour with one of the most notable canal cruise operators in the city (try Those Dam Boat Guys). Most canal cruises take around an hour, so after your tour, pick a neighborhood to explore. You can head to Amsterdam’s UNESCO protected canal ring, De Pifp, De Plantage or Jordaan. End your day with a sumptuous dinner at one of the top rated restaurants in the city ( try Restaurant Adam, Vinkeles or Ivy & Bros ).

Day 2: Amsterdam

Unless breakfast is included in the price of your accommodation, start your day at one of Amsterdam’s best breakfast and brunch spots. A typical breakfast in Amsterdam includes some bread, pancakes and pastries, cheese, soft boiled egg, bacon and freshly brewed coffee. Some of the restaurants you can try are Bakers & Roasters,The Pancake Bakery, Bar Spek and Flinders Cafe.

After breakfast, dive deeper into local experience by visiting one or two of Amsterdam’s best loved museums like the   Anne Frank House ,  Rijksmuseum , Stedelijk Museum or  Van Gogh Museum . In the afternoon, do not miss to see the windmills, an iconic part of the Dutch landscape, located in and around Amsterdam. Marvel at the views and enjoy traditional Dutch beers brewed on site.

Windmills in and around Amsterdam:

Molen van Sloten The Sloten Windmill is the only one of Amsterdam’s 8 windmills open to visitors. It is still operating and, being a draining mill or tjasker, it is used to pump excess water from the surrounding area that was once the Haarlemmer Lake (Haarlemmermeer).

Address: Akersluis 10, Amsterdam, Netherlands; tel: +31 20 669 0412; http://molenvansloten.nl ; Open: daily 10 am – 4.30 pm (except Jan 1, April 27 and Dec 25 and 26)

De Gooyer Kill two birds with one stone by visiting de Gooyer windmill. If you do, you won’t just get to see Amsterdam’s most iconic windmill but you can also sample one of Amsterdam’s best beers at  ‘t IJ brewery ( Funenkade 7, 1018 AL Amsterdam, Netherlands ) next door. The mill itself was built in 1725 and is the tallest wooden mill in the Netherlands. The windmill hasn’t been operating since it was damaged during a storm in 1972.

Address: Funenkade 5, 1018 AL Amsterdam, Netherlands

De Otter Located not that far away from de Bloem mill is the small paltrok mill de Otter. Built in 1631 as one of many sawmills that were dotted around this area, it remained in operation until the early 1900s. Due to Amsterdam’s growing population as well as industrialization, all but the Otter sawmill were dismantled. The mill was restored to full working condition in the 1990s. However, the many buildings that have shot up in the area mean that wind conditions are no longer suitable to operate the mill. As a result, the owners have proposed to relocate the mill but, being a national monument, they had to seek permission from the city council. Several court cases later, the Otter remains, for the time being, in its current location.

 Address: Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Riekermolen No mill in Amsterdam seems rooted to its spot, and the same is true for the Riekermolen. Built in 1636 in the village of Sloten, just outside Amsterdam, the Riekermill was moved to its current location next to the Amstel River in 1961. Like the Molen van Sloten, it is a drainage mill, but unlike its operating cousin, it has been retired. Nevertheless, when the wind is right, the Riekermolen still spins on weekends during the afternoon. Next to it, you’ll also find a statue of Rembrandt who favored this area and eternalized it in many of his sketches.

Address: Buitenveldert-Oost, Amsterdam, Netherlands

D’Admiraal Hop on the ferry to Amsterdam Noord to visit the last remaining chalk and trass mill in the Netherlands (simply board one of the free ferries   at the waterfront exit of Amsterdam Central Station, just follow the  signs to ‘Noord’. These public ferries depart every few minutes in daytime and even run  through the night, transporting pedestrians, bicycles and mopeds). Built in 1792 to grind a volcanic stone from the German Eifel region, used in the making of mortar, it was later used to grind chalk for putty. It was erected (and still stands) in the picturesque Buiksloot, a former village and now part of Amsterdam.

Address: Noordhollandschkanaaldijk 21, 1034 ZL Amsterdam, Netherlands

De Bloem Built in 1768, flour mill de Bloem started life in the Bloemgracht in the Jordaan. Much like de Gooyer windmill it was later relocated to a windier location on the outskirts of town. Today it is used as an office and can only be visited during the National Windmill Day ( on the second Sunday in May ).

Address: Haarlemmerweg 465, Amsterdam, Netherlands

De Zaanse Schans A short train ( the nearest station is Koog-Zaandijk. The train from Amsterdam Central Station takes 17 minutes. Zaanse Schans is just a 15-minute walk away ) or bus ride (from Amsterdam Central Station, Connexxion bus 391 departs every 15 minutes to Zaanse Schans. The journey takes 40 minutes. For more information www.bus391.nl ) outside of Amsterdam you will find the outdoor museum Zaanse Schans. Since 1961, historical mills, buildings and barns from the 18th and 19th century have been transplanted to this area outside Zaandam, creating at once a thriving community and living monument.

De Zaanse Schans is home to 8 windmills with great names such as The Cat (de kat), The Spotted Hen (de bonte hen) and The Cloverleaf (het klaverblad). The mills were used for varying purposes from sawmills to oil mills to mustard mills. With many other attractions at de Zaanse Schans (such as a bakery museum and a museum of Dutch clocks) you can easily spent a whole day exploring the area.

Address: Schansend 7, Zaandam, Netherlands; dezaanseschans.nl; Open: Mon – Sun 10 am – 5 pm

You can book a trip to the windmills with Eating Amsterdam Tours

Day 3: The Hague, South Holland

On your 3rd day, explore The Hague , the seat of government of The Netherlands. The Hague is located in South Holland and is just 51 minutes away from Amsterdam via Dutch Railways. The ticket from Amsterdam Central Station to Den Haag Central Station costs about 10 Euros ( 11 USD ). Some of the attractions you can visit are  Koninklijk Kabinet van Schilderijen  ( art museum that  houses the Royal Cabinet of Paintings, consisting of 841 objects, mostly Dutch Golden Age paintings; Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag, Netherlands ),  Escher in Het Paleis ( permanent exhibition dedicated to the world-famous artist M.C. Escher, whose art startled millions of people all over the world.;  Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag, Netherlands ) and  Madurodam ( Madurodam is a miniature park and tourist attraction in the Scheveningen district of The Hague in the Netherlands. It is home to a range of 1:25 scale model replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, historical cities and large developments; George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag, Netherlands; tel: +31 70 416 2400 ) .

Day 4: Utrecht

On day 4, visit the ancient and historic city of Utrecht. Considered the beating heart of The Netherlands, it houses many buildings and structures going back to the early middle ages. Being a relatively small city, Utrecht is bicycle friendly. You can either bike on your own and you can join one of the guided biking tours offered in the city. Some of the attractions you can visit are Dom Tower , the Canals area , Railway Museum and  Sint Willibrordkerk  ( Minrebroederstraat 21, 3512 GS Utrecht, Netherlands; tel: +31 30 231 3217 ). The journey to Utrecht  from Amsterdam Central Station is about 27 minutes and one way ticket costs about 7 Euros.

Day 5: Amsterdam

For your final day in The Netherlands, get a one last whirl through Amsterdam to take in any museums or other attractions that you might have missed ( check our Amsterdam guide for ideas ). For a wide range and reasonably priced locally made handicrafts, you can explore the center of Amsterdam. If your last day happens to be on a first Sunday of the month, then you can visit the Sunday Market Amsterdam  ( Held the first Sunday of each month in Westerpark, the second Sunday of the month at Amsterdam Roest, and occasionally in IJburg ). Some of the common stuff you can purchase are clogs and wooden shoes, flower bulbs, Delftware, Dutch cheese and  Stroopwafels .

This is the end of our 5-day suggested itinerary. Remember, this is just a guide for planning and is in no way, shape or form the only way to travel the country. There are several alternative routes of travel within the country and it will depend on your intended length of stay. Enjoy The Netherlands!

Have you been to Amsterdam, the Hague, Utrecht or anywhere else in the Netherlands? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

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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.”

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.

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 .

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.

Delft is the perfect place if you want to spend the afternoon somewhere truly Dutch and sit on the terrace with a coffee or a beer.

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.

In case you didn’t know, Delft is THE place to buy Delft blue porcelain (duh).

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.

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 .

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

Maastri cht is often forgotten, seeing as it’s so far away from the capital. It shouldn’t be, though! Maastricht is a beautiful city, with lots of medieval architecture and plenty to do.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. The Hague is 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.

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). It has a historical city centre and is filled to the brim with things to do.

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:

How to get from amsterdam to london in 2024, 16 superb things to do in amersfoort in 2024, 17 unforgettable things to do in leiden in 2024, what do you think, 49 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!

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.

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Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

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Travel time cut significantly for JD Bertrand's rooting section with hometown Falcons pick

SOUTH BEND — The logistics of sports parenting just got a whole lot easier for Jim and Christine Bertrand.

Former Notre Dame football linebacker JD Bertrand will stay close to home after the Atlanta Falcons took him in Saturday’s fifth round (143 rd overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft .

“I was ecstatic,” Bertrand said in a conference call with Atlanta reporters from suburban Roswell, Ga. “Right when I looked down, I saw the Flowery Branch number, and I said, ‘Let’s go.’ “

After serving the past two years as a team captain and leading the Irish defense in tackles from 2021-23, Bertrand has joined a rebuilding franchise that has its practice facility about a 53-minute drive from the Bertrand home.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta, where the Falcons play their home games and where Notre Dame will face Georgia Tech this fall, is only about a 40-minute drive from Roswell.

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

JD’s older brother John Michael Bertrand, the former Notre Dame baseball left-hander, is in Double-A with the Richmond Flying Squirrels of the San Francisco Giants organization.

JD Bertrand: Taking the measure of JD Bertrand ahead of Senior Day for Notre Dame football

“I couldn’t imagine a better situation, a better scenario,” JD Bertrand said. “My mom was saying the whole week, ‘Well, maybe there’s a chance he’s close to home.’ The ND trips, they’d drive 10 hours up there, 10 hours back on a weekend.”

JD Bertrand: 'Energy and excitement' await Notre Dame football linebacker JD Bertrand in Dublin

Unable to work out for teams after suffering a torn plantar fascia on the first day of Senior Bowl practices, Bertrand had to rely on his game tape and chalk-talk acumen in the pre-draft process.

“I really wanted to work out,” he said. “I really think I would have showed a lot of people numbers that they maybe would not have expected from me. I think I would have tested really well.”

His goal in the 40-yard dash, for instance, would have been “the high 4.5’s” with something just over 4.6 seconds acceptable as well.

“It’s unfortunate but I can only control what I can control,” he said. “I made sure my classroom setting, the football side of it is probably top-notch for me compared to a lot of guys. I made sure I focused on that even more.”

Bertrand’s rookie contract will include an estimated $349,000 signing bonus and a four-year value of $4.37 million, according to Spotrac.

The first player from Blessed Trinity Catholic to reach the NFL, Bertrand has suited up for state championship games that were held in the Falcons’ home dome. Now he gets to take the field as a Falcons rookie.

“That’s always been the dream,” he said. “Now I get an opportunity to continue to improve upon that dream and make it everything I dreamed of.”

Mike Berardino covers Notre Dame football for NDInsider.com and is on social media @MikeBerardino.

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Discover 7 must-do activities in stellenbosch, south africa.

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Equally rich in wine and natural beauty, Stellenbosch offers extraordinary experiences that cater to ... [+] both the wine aficionado and the enthusiastic traveler alike.

Set in the heart of South Africa's Western Cape, Stellenbosch is widely regarded as one of the top wine regions in the world. Famed for its full-bodied reds and crisp chenin blancs, the region is equally acclaimed for its jaw-dropping landscape of lush vineyards set against towering mountains. Equally rich in wine and natural beauty, Stellenbosch offers extraordinary experiences that cater to both the wine aficionado and the enthusiastic traveler alike. Here’s some of the best things to do on your visit to this remarkable region.

The incredible view from Jordan's outdoor tasting room.

Jordan Wines

If you can visit only one winery in Stellenbosch, Jordan is the one not to miss. This leading estate offers an unparalleled experience that combines world-class wines with captivating scenery and engaging activities.

Start your tasting experience by savoring Jordan's exquisite wines on their outdoor deck, where you'll be awed not just by the flavors of the wines but equally by stunning views of the majestic Stellenbosch Mountains. For an even more immersive experience, go on the unique 360° tasting tour, which takes you on a vehicle ride through the picturesque vineyards complete with gorgeous vistas of False Bay and Table Bay. You’ll enjoy premium tastings as you take in the views and learn about the flora and fauna of the Cape Winelands.

After your wine tasting, indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey at The Jordan Restaurant, helmed by the celebrated Chef Marthinus Ferreira. This sought-after dining destination offers an elevated farm-to-table experience that shows off the rich flavors and ingredients of Stellenbosch and South Africa. The multicourse dining feast, paired with thoughtfully selected wines, is a truly unparalleled gastronomic feast that ranks as one of the top dining experiences in the country.

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Finally, as if offering a word-class dining and tasting experience were not enough, Jordan also offers luxury accommodation in the heart of the winelands. These beautifully appointed suites are a welcome getaway with unmatched panoramas of the vineyards and the Stellenbosch Mountains.

Le Grand Domaine Enoteca Wine Bar

Located on Stellenbosch’s bustling Church Street, this trendy wine bar is beloved by oenophiles and prides itself on showcasing the top vintages the area has to offer. There are over 30 of the best regional wines available for side-by-side tastings, making it an essential stop for those looking to explore Stellenbosch’s impressive range of vineyards. Enoteca is also an eatery favoured by locals that serves bistro-style fare like Darling sauvignon blanc steamed mussels, truffle parmesan fries, delicious kingklip and more. It’s an ideal spot to wine and dine with fellow noble grape lovers.

Middelvlei stands out as one of the few wineries (or wine farms, as they’re called in South Africa) ... [+] in the region that invites guests to experience firsthand the creative process of wine making with its wine blending experience.

Middelvlei stands out as one of the few wineries (or wine farms, as they’re called in South Africa) in the region that invites guests to experience firsthand the creative process of winemaking with its wine blending experience. The session begins with a guided tasting, where you'll learn about the nuanced flavors of Pinotage, merlot and shiraz, accompanied by freshly baked potbrood and a delectable snoek pate. Next, you take on the role of wine maker as you blend the varietals to create your very own bottle of personalized wine that you get to take home with you. There’s no better souvenir of Stellenbosch! Don’t leave without grabbing lunch at the winery’s Boerebraai Restaurant, where you’ll be treated to an authentic South African braai (barbeque), including perfectly grilled lamb and sausage, as well as incredibly tasty pumpkin fritters and Braaibroodjies (barbecued cheese and tomato sandwiches).

Weltevreden Estate Winery

This historic boutique winery, renown for its line of bold Bertha wines, offers something for every interest and age range. The most popular experience is the handmade macaron and wine pairing, which allows visitors to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors. The winery is also home to the exceptional Jonkershuis restaurant, where guests can savor elevated cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. Families with young kids won’t want to miss the Kids Carnival area, providing an entertaining space for children to enjoy while their parents explore the estate’s acclaimed outdoor art collection.

Stellenbosch is best discovered via walking tour so you can see first hand the lovely Cape Dutch ... [+] architecture, art scene and lively street life.

Stellenbosch On Foot

Stellenbosch is not just the name of an acclaimed wine region, it’s also a beautiful city with a fascinating history and vibrant art and food scene. It’s worth spending the time to get to know this bucolic university town and one of the best ways to do so is via a walking tour. Led by knowledgeable guides like Juliana, Stellenbosch on Foot offers a historic tour that gives participants an intimate look at Stellenbosch's stately, oak-lined avenues, interesting historic personalities and iconic Cape Dutch architecture.

As you stroll through the "village of the oaks," your enthusiastic guide shares fascinating stories and insights into one of South Africa’s key historic urban centers. Guides also freely dispense insider advice on the best not-to-be-missed eateries, local shops and picturesque streets during the pleasant promenade. Art-focused walking tours (Stellenbosch is one of the country’s premier art centers and has stunning displays peppered throughout) are also available.

Kayamandi Township Tour

Discover a different side to Stellenbosch as you explore Kayamandi, the second oldest township in the country. The walking tour of Kayamandi, which means "nice home" in Xhosa, is done with a local guide and provides guests with a unique insight into the area’s complex and dynamic history and culture. Highlights include street art, the chance to meet local entrepreneurs and sampling traditional foods. Also considering signing up for the Djembe drumming session.

It may be worth hiring a professional driver to navigate South Africa's most celebrated wine region.

Oswald Tours

When visiting the winelands, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no viable public transportation and renting a car can be difficult for those who want to go on several wine tastings and are not used to driving on the left side of the road. That where Oswald Tours comes in. The company offers affordable and reliable personalized chauffeur services, ensuring that you can enjoy your wine tastings and explore the region in comfort. Their knowledgeable, friendly drivers (like Francois) are equally as skilled at driving safely as they are at providing insightful and engaging commentary about the wine region’s' rich history and culture. The company also offer airport pickups, as well as a variety of pre-set tours like Cape Town and whale watching.

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