The Netherlands Travel Guide
Tranquil canals, medieval-style architecture, grand churches, bustling squares, cozy cafes, and a place where the main form of transportation is by bike… the Netherlands is a beautiful travel destination that is perfect for any traveler. See Amsterdam, a city with world-class museums and a wild night-life. Or travel the Netherlands’ countryside and explore historic and picturesque towns that will make you feel as though you’ve entered a fairytale. With so many charming places to see and delightful people to meet, you are sure to fall in love with the Netherlands.
Netherlands Stats
Official Language: Dutch
Population: 17 million
Capital City: Amsterdam
Currency: The Euro
Power Outlet: Type C & F
Amsterdam
2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary: Best Way to Spend Two Days in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the perfect European city to visit if you only have a few days. After you visit the main museums, you get to stroll the canals and parks, take your pick from trendy restaurants, and simply enjoy this European experience. On this Amsterdam itinerary, you have enough time to see the must-see sites and […]
Amsterdam Bucket List: Top 10 Things to Do in Amsterdam
With its maze of canals, world-class museums, boutique shops and hotels, cozy cafes, cultural centers, and, of course, coffeeshops, Amsterdam is a delight to visit. In this post, we share with you 10 of the best things to do in Amsterdam, perfect if it is your first visit to this wonderful city. Best Things to […]
Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Hotels & Neighborhoods
Trying to decide where to stay in Amsterdam? Then no doubt you have numerous questions running through your head. How much does it cost to stay in Amsterdam? Where is the best place to stay? How far in advance should I make my reservation? We answer all of these questions and more in this post. […]
European Itineraries With Amsterdam
The Perfect 10 Day Amsterdam Brussels Paris Itinerary
On this Amsterdam Brussels Paris itinerary, visit three of Europe’s best cities. Start in Amsterdam, where you get to stroll along the canals and visit the world class Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Travel by train to Belgium where you will spend two days dining on chocolate, waffles, and beer and exploring the fairytale towns […]
10 Day London Amsterdam Paris Itinerary
A trip to London, Amsterdam, and Paris…sounds nice, right? With 10 days you have just enough time to visit these three cities, although it will be a bit of a whirlwind tour. There is a lot to see and do here, and our London Amsterdam Paris itinerary will help you manage your time so you […]
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.
One Perfect Day in Utrecht, the Netherlands
The Hague
One Perfect Day in The Hague, the Netherlands
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 it. There is a different vibe here than in Amsterdam. Haarlem is like a laid back, relaxed version of Amsterdam, without the tour groups.
6 Reasons Why You Should Take a Day Trip to Haarlem
Train Information
Netherlands Train Travel: How to Book Your Tickets and Use the Trains
One of the best ways to get around the Netherlands is by train. Trains are cheap, fast, and a very convenient way to travel. Plus, they make day trips from Amsterdam a piece of cake. In this post, learn all about Netherlands train travel, how to book your tickets online, and useful tips for using the trains and storing your luggage.
Europe Travel Inspiration & Practical Info
30 Popular Tourist Attractions in Europe & How to Visit Them
From world class museums and ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural wonders, Europe boasts a diverse array of attractions that attract millions of visitors every year. Here are 30 of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe and how to visit them.
One Week in Europe: 25 Epic Itineraries
Do you dream of visiting world-class cities like Paris, Barcelona, or Venice? Or would you rather hike the Alps, go on a scenic train ride, explore the beautiful beaches and coastal towns in southern Europe, visit fairytale towns and castles, island hop in Greece, or go on an unforgettable road trip in northern Europe?
In this article we list 25 ways to spend one week in Europe.
10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries for Your Next Trip
Europe is a joy to explore. With world-class cities, medieval towns, historical sites, the snowcapped Alps, gorgeous beaches, and some of the world’s most delicious food, you have the perfect ingredients for your next vacation. If you want to spend 10 days in Europe, we have ten amazing itineraries to share with you. In this […]
12 Things You Should Know about Renting a Car in Europe
Having a car provides a lot of freedom and convenience when traveling through Europe. You can travel at your own pace, stop frequently to take in the view, and get to some places that are difficult to reach with public transportation. However, there are some things to know about renting a car in Europe. Knowing […]
30 Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe (+ Map and Photos)
It is no secret that Europe is filled with beautiful places to visit. With its grand cities, fairytale-like towns, soaring mountain ranges, and gorgeous beaches, there is a seemingly endless list of gorgeous places to explore. Whether you are planning your next trip to Europe, or just trying to figure out where to travel to […]
7 Things to Know When Planning Your First Trip to Europe
If you are planning your first trip to Europe, it can be an overwhelming experience. Where should you go? How much will it cost? How many places can you visit? Does this sound familiar? We get emails every day from people who want advice planning their first trip to Europe. And we see the same […]
Best Hikes in Europe: Our 20 Favorite Day Hikes
Europe is one of our favorite places to go hiking. There’s no better way to explore the dramatic and varied landscapes here, from the snow-capped Alps to coastal trails to the remote, volcanic interior of Iceland. In this guide we list 20 of the best hikes in Europe, 20 amazing ways to explore this beautiful […]
Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In Our Camera Bag
Do you want to know how we capture the images that you see on our website? Here is our photography gear guide, with links and explanations of our photography gear and accessories. At the end of this post, we offer tips and tricks on how to take better photographs while traveling. Photography Gear Guide The […]
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.
The Keukenhof: The 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.
Best Time to Visit The Netherlands
If you want to see the bulbs in bloom, visit the Netherlands in April and early May. The prime blooming season varies year to year, depending on the weather. However, the end of April is a fairly reliable time to visit if you want to see Amsterdam and the countryside carpeted in spring blooms.
April through June is one of the busiest times to visit the Netherlands, so expect larger crowds and larger prices during these months.
The summer months can also be quite busy. October is a gorgeous time to visit the Netherlands, with fall colors and cool nights.
During the winter months, the crowds fade away. It’s chilly but very cold temperatures are rare.