Netherlands Travel Guide

Top Experiences in The Netherlands

Amsterdam: With its maze of canals, world-class museums, boutique shops, cozy cafes, cultural centers, and, of course, coffeeshops, Amsterdam is a delight to visit. Some top destinations here include the historical Anne Frank house, the Rijksmuseum which displays Dutch masterpieces, and the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market. Travel Amsterdam on foot, by boat, or join in with the many bikers.

Utrecht: Utrecht, with its canals and street cafes, looks and feels like a smaller, less crowded version of Amsterdam. With one day in Utrecht, you can explore the scenic city center, take in the view from the tallest tower in the Netherlands, and dine at one of many great cafes and restaurants in town. 

The Hague: The Hague, also called Den Haag in Dutch, is the International City of Peace and Justice. It is here that some of the world’s worst crimes are prosecuted. But there’s more to The Hague than criminal courts and palaces of justice. In The Hague, you can see famous works of art by Vermeer, stroll down quaint Dutch streets, visit a miniature version of the Netherlands, and even visit the beach. One day in The Hague is all you need to see the best of this city.

Haarlem: Haarlem is a small city that neighbors Amsterdam. With cobblestoned lanes, Gothic cathedrals, and a bustling main square, Haarlem is a joy to visit. We spent an afternoon in Haarlem and loved relaxing in the Grote Markt, touring a windmill, and wandering the medieval sites and hidden courtyards. We enjoyed how Haarlem is like a laid back, relaxed version of Amsterdam, without the tour groups.

Keukenhof: Keukenhof is the largest flower garden in the world. It is open between March and May, and at this time Keukenhof is a wonderland of flowering daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths. It is gorgeous and well worth the visit if you plan to be in Amsterdam during these months.

Rotterdam: As the second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is an often overlooked travel destination. However, Rotterdam is a fascinating city with much to explore. Some of which includes viewing futuristic houses, learning of the city’s maritime history, and eating at vibrant international food markets.

The Kinderdijk windmills: Just outside of Rotterdam is a quaint village of Kinderdijk, known for its well-preserved 18th century windmills. You can tour the inside of the windmills and discover how these structures are vital to Dutch culture. And, here you can get the iconic image of windmills lined up along the tranquil waterway.

Maastricht: Maastricht is a beautiful city distinguished for its medieval architecture, impressive basilicas, charming squares, and historical monuments. The city’s well-preserved buildings and cobble-stone streets will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back to the Dutch Middle Ages.

Giethoorn: Named the “Venice of the North”, Giethoorn is a fairytale village made up of mini islands carved out by canals. Thatched houses and farms have been built on the islands, as well as a few restaurants and tourist shops. Sail along the canals and relax under the weeping willows and flowering hydrangeas that line the waterways. Though this dream-like village is a popular tourist destination, it is a beautiful place that is worth the visit on your trip to the Netherlands.

Naarden: Narden is a unique and well-preserved fortified city. Its star-shaped design, century-old defensive structures, and historical monuments makes the city feel like an open-air military exhibition. And, the city within is a charming place to wander. Eat at delicious restaurants, see the Renaissance style city hall, and visit fascinating museums.

Amersfoort: Just outside of Utrecht is the historic city Amersfoort. Enter the town through the Koppelpoort, a brick water and road gate built in the 14th century. Within the town lies the Onze-Lieve Vrouwetoren, the third largest church tower in the Netherlands. Additionally, the town’s medieval buildings, historic museums, and tranquil canals make Amersfoort a charming place to wander.

Edam: Edam is a quaint picturesque town known for their cheese-making. Come here to visit the cheese market, view iconic windmills, take a boat tour, and wander the homey village.

Delft: Delft is a small town rich in medieval architecture and historic canal streets. The town is also known for their Delftware, or handmade blue pottery, and here you can see its production and bring some home as a beautiful souvenir.