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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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The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren’t Amsterdam)

We all love 'Dam, but there are plenty of other Dutch cities to explore. From Rotterdam to Utrecht, these are some of the best

When I tell people that I’m from the Netherlands , the first thing they mention is Amsterdam . I get it, Amsterdam is a wonderful city to visit, with plenty to keep you entertained all day and night. However, it’s also becoming far too crowded and disorderly. It seems like a week doesn’t go by without news coming out about overtourism in the Dutch capital , and Amsterdam is now  actively trying to deter tourists .

So why not turn our attention elsewhere? From Ameland to Rotterdam, this country has plenty of other incredible cities to explore. In any case, next time you hear that someone is from the Netherlands, you’ll at least have something else to talk about. 

Fleurine Tideman is a freelance writer who splits her time between Rotterdam and London.  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

RECOMMENDED: 🛤 The best day trips from Amsterdam 🇪🇺 The most underrated destinations in Europe 🌆 The best European city breaks to try this year

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The best Dutch cities to visit

1.  Rotterdam

Let me immediately state my bias: I’m a proud resident of Rotterdam . Aside from its thriving art scene, Rotterdam is a foodie’s dream destination, with buzzy food markets like the Markthal and Fenix Food Factory. As a large part of the city was destroyed in WW2, Rotterdam is also home to unique architecture. Many local architects were given free rein when it came to rebuilding the city, which has made Rotterdam the vibrant and unique city it is today, with an aesthetic that seamlessly blends new and old.

2.  Haarlem

If you’re looking to stay close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is your best choice. This quaint city is a 16-minute train ride from the capital, and far cheaper to stay in – many Amsterdam residents end up moving here to commute to the capital, although Haarlem itself has plenty to offer. You can easily spend an afternoon in the Frans Hals Museum learning more about this legendary Dutch painter. Outside of the city, you’ll find endless tulip fields to serve as a backdrop for your holiday photos – just be sure to ask the farmers for permission first!

3.  's-Hertogenbosch

Don’t worry, nobody’s expecting you to be able to pronounce that! Even the Dutch find it too tiresome to say, so we usually shorten it to Den Bosch. The perfect city break for those looking to soak up some history and culture, Den Bosch is known for its great museums, including the North Brabant Museum and Design Museum Den Bosch, as well as its medieval architecture and fortified city walls. People from across the region flock here for the markets on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Be sure to sample a traditional Bossche bol, which is essentially a huge profiterole covered in chocolate –  lekker !

4.  Maastricht

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the south of the Netherlands. Maastricht, with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets, feels like it was plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale. Bordering Belgium, the city offers a unique blend of Dutch and Belgian culture and architecture. My perfect afternoon? Visit Boekhandel Dominicanen to shop for books in a converted medieval church, then head to Bosch Brewery for a tour and classic beer tasting.

5.  Arnhem

Visiting Arnhem will allow you to combine your city break with a touch of nature, as the city is surrounded by countryside and situated beside the Veluwe, one of the Netherlands’ largest national parks. Look out for w ildlife like deer, foxes and Scottish Highland cattle, which were brought here to maintain the heathland. The city itself is known  for its vibrant art scene: Arnhem’s Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit, as is the Netherlands Open Air Museum, which showcases traditional Dutch farmhouses and windmills. Get to know the city by wandering its  shopping streets or joining a guided street art tour. 

6.  Utrecht

Instead of visiting Amsterdam, why not head to ‘Little Amsterdam’ instead? With its rows of cute Dutch houses and terraces perched along the canals,  Utrecht feels like a shrunk-down version of Amsterdam without the crowds of tourists.  The best way to explore Utrecht is through a canal boat tour. During my student years there, I loved taking visitors along the canals and introducing them to traditional Dutch pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnauwen. Visit Olivier for a pint with a twist –  this Belgian beer pub sits within an old church (we do love a church conversion in the Netherlands)!

7.  Ameland

Technically a municipality, Ameland is my favourite of the Dutch Wadden Islands. This tiny stretch of paradise, home to four villages and two nature reserves, feels like it was plucked from the past. Visiting Ameland always makes me feel like I’m the main character in a movie, pensively strolling along sand dunes, marshes and forests. The best part? It couldn’t feel further away from Amsterdam’s overcrowded streets. 

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17 Places to Visit in the Netherlands That Aren't Amsterdam

By Caitlin Morton and Katherine LaGrave

Amsterdam is probably the first stop on anyone's trip to the Netherlands—and for good reason. But there is so much more to this small country (about one-third the size of Pennsylvania) than its capital city. Think rows of windmills, fields of tulips , and cities bursting with culture and charm. Luckily for you, it's all just a short drive or train ride away from that main city hub. Here's a list to get you started.

This piece was originally published in May 2018. It has been updated with new information.

Affectionately referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," this village's thatched roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges can be explored via bike lanes or canals—either by boat, or by ice skating during the frozen winter months.

Beemster Polder

About thirteen miles north of Amsterdam, the Beemster region is an example of a Dutch polder—a flat piece of green farmland formed by draining a body of water. Aside from its cultural significance (it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999), Beemster Polder is a gorgeous landscape, complete with little canals, windmills, and lush, green fields. Make sure to stop by Middenbeemster, which, like most towns in the country, is impossibly charming.

The canals of Utrecht have two stories, where centuries-old wharf cellars now serve as spots to enjoy food and drinks at water level—something unique to this city. You can also enjoy the towering churches and cozy cafes of Utrecht via cycling, as it's one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. It's also the perfect place for history buffs, with sites like the Dom Tower and Centraal Museum offering glimpses into the country's past.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

This park is one of the largest in Holland, and within its 13,343 acres, counts rare wildlife, some of the most iconic buildings in the Netherlands, and the Kröller-Müller museum, which showcases a collection of nineteenth and twentieth century art in addition to the largest private collection of Van Goghs . Zoom around on a (free) white bike—the park has 1,800 available for rent.

Laura Walsh

Ryan M. Moser

Anastasia Miari

Meaghan Kenny

Many people flock to Delft for its eponymous blue pottery, but don't overlook the unspoiled town's Renaissance architecture and Vermeer Centre museum (the Dutch painter, famous for such works as Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Milkmaid , was born and died here).

Texel Island

Texel is the largest and most populated of the West Frisian Islands, also known as the Wadden Islands, due to their location in the Wadden Sea. The island offers landscapes unlike anything else on the mainland, including sweeping sand dunes, salt marshes filled with lavender , and beaches lined with bungalows.

Beloved by photographers and available to rent on Airbnb, the Piet Blom-designed cube houses are reason enough to visit the country's second-largest city. But so are the bars and restaurants, soaring Erasmus Bridge, and LED-lit Market Hall.

The village of Kinderdijk is probably what comes to mind when you imagine a bucolic Dutch countryside—in other words, lots of windmills. The 19 monumental mills were built in the early eighteenth century to prevent flooding and keep soil dry, and the mill network has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997.

Located in the province of Limburg (near the Belgian border), Thorn is postcard-pretty with cobblestone roads and white-washed brick buildings. Its can't-miss attraction is the tenth-century abbey church in the town center.

Zaanse Schans

If you're looking for a snapshot of Dutch history, head to Zaanse Schans: Here, in this collection of windmills and houses, the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries are brought to life. Don't miss the cheese factory .

Amsterdam may be the capital, but the Dutch parliament meets in this stunning city on the North Sea. Within its Gothic Inner Court lie some of the country's best museums , including an homage to M.C. Escher and the Mauritshuis (which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring ).

Alkmaar has many intriguing museums and lots of medieval architecture worth checking out, but most travelers flock here for one reason: cheese . The town is known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place on Friday mornings from April to early September.

Often dubbed "Little Amsterdam," Haarlem has all the appeal of the capital city with none of the crowds. Make a point to visit Jopenkerk , a brewery housed in a converted fourteenth-century cathedral.

You can't visit Holland and not expect to see some technicolor tulips. There are many places around the country to view the beautiful flowers , but the Keukenhof Gardens (open from March to May) and sprawling fields around the town of Lisse are a sure thing.

This picturesque fishing village is Holland’s best-known for a reason: it's filled with colorful wooden houses, bobbing fishing boats, and seafood stall after seafood stall dishing up fish and chips, smoked eel, and pickled herring piled high with onions.

This coastal wetland—a UNESCO World Heritage site , and the "largest unbroken system of intertidal sand and mud flats in the world"—is home to a number of animal species including the harbor seal, grey seal, and harbor porpoise. There are some 50 islands here; the Netherlands "owns" five of them.

If you like technology and design, head to Eindhoven. Don't miss the Van Abbemuseum (modern and contemporary art), Strijp-S (a creative and cultural center housed in an industrial park), and the Inkijkmuseum (a micro museum located in a former washhouse). Looks can be deceiving: Cutting-edge Eindhoven is one of the oldest cities in Holland.

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• The Netherlands
• Top 10 Beautiful Towns In...

The 27 Most Beautiful Towns in the Netherlands

An extraordinarily diverse country featuring lush countryside, wild shorelines, medieval towns and modern cities, the Netherlands is rich in both natural and cultural dynamism. Here, we check out the most beautiful Dutch towns that showcase the charm and wonder this country has to offer.

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Must Visit Towns and Cities in the Netherlands

1. amsterdam.

Architectural Landmark

The capital of the Netherlands and the country’s most popular tourist destination, Amsterdam is a place of contrasts, a contemporary, laid-back city filled with unique and historical sites. The famous 17th-century canals which are found in the heart of the city are lined with charming houses, recognisable by their tall and narrow structure. Other architectural landmarks, such as the Gothic-inspired Rijksmuseum or the city’s many impressive medieval churches, add to Amsterdam’s beautiful cityscape and secure its place as one of the country’s most remarkable cities. Book a guided walking tour to discover the prettiest side streets and canal bridges in the city.

Known for its links with the great Dutch painter Vermeer, Delft is an astonishingly picturesque town worthy of its artistic heritage. The city centre has a number of monumental buildings, such as the impressive Renaissance-style town hall, or the Oude Kerk, a medieval church with an extraordinary 75m (246ft) church tower leaning at a slight angle. Delft is also home to dozens of beautiful, intersecting canals, including the Vrouwjuttenland, a canal dating back to 1432 and remarkable for its charming houses, cafés and the water lilies which float upon the surface. Book a walking tour to see the very best of the City of Orange and Blue.

3. Giethoorn

Historical Landmark

An idyllic little Dutch village, Giethoorn has often been termed the Venice of the Netherlands for its myriad canals and small bridges. There are no roads in the old quarter of the village, and all travel and transportation is carried out on the water. Giethoorn differs from Venice however in its innate peacefulness; around every corner are charming thatched-roof cottages, small, well-tended gardens and lush greenery. Visitors can take a boat out onto the canals and explore the nooks and crannies of this unique village, or wander the footpaths and the bridges, stopping at one of the village’s many cosy cafés. There are plenty of day trips here that set off from Amsterdam.

4. The Hague

The political, administrative and legal capital of the Netherlands, the Hague is a beautiful city whose streets and buildings reflect both its impressive history and contemporary importance. Picturesque yet with an approachable charm, the city centre is a quirky mixture of architecture from medieval to modern and features the magnificent Binnenhof, the Netherlands’ seat of government. Nearby, the Noordeinde Palace, one of the Dutch royal family’s main residences, attracts plenty of visitors and their cameras. Towards the north of the city lies the area of Scheveningen, a wealthy beach resort complete with a pier, lighthouse and miles of sandy beaches.

Home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, Leiden is known all over as one of the country’s main centres for history and culture. The birthplace of Rembrandt, this is an attractive city where traditional brick buildings cluster around the historic city, mingling with impressive university buildings. Like many Dutch cities, Leiden is located on the water; two branches of the Old Rhine enter the city and converge in the middle, with dozens of small canals branching off and winding throughout. Leiden also features an abundance of beautiful green spaces, including the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world and the Leidse Hout, a small deer park on the edge of the city.

6. Broek in Waterland

Broek in Waterland is located in the municipality of Waterland, an area of the Netherlands on the western shores of the Markermeer and characterised by its flat grass plains intersected by rivers, canals and dikes. The town is a picturesque village perfect for those searching for natural beauty and tranquillity. The streets are lined with typical Dutch houses painted in quaint pastel colours and centre around the charming village church which dates back to the 17th century. The town also features a large lake, which is the perfect spot for picnicking in summer and ice skating in winter.

A stunning example of a star fort, Naarden is known as one of the best-preserved fortified towns in Europe. Star forts grew in popularity over the 15th century as a highly efficient form of defence and are visually arresting forms of architecture. The town of Naarden is located on the typical six-pointed star design and surrounded by a moat and lush green fields. The town is just as beautiful up close as it is from afar. The St Vitus Church, a 14th-century basilica, lies at the heart of the town, while the old town hall is a wonderful example of a traditional Dutch building, with intricate brickwork, charming green shutters and a peaked roof.

Underrated Towns to Visit in the Netherlands

There are many smaller settlements beyond Amsterdam, Rotterdam and the Hague that are hugely under appreciated outside of the Netherlands. These charming, yet under explored burgs include several secluded spots on the Wadden Islands, two fortified communities and the oldest city in the Netherlands. Recommendations from Tom Coggins.

8. Nijmegen

As Nijmegen was founded during a Roman conquest around 2,000 years ago, it is recognised as the oldest city in the Netherlands. Several buildings around the city still contain elements that date back to this period and there are many other fascinating historical sites in Nijmegen, such as its Dutch Golden Age weighing house or Brouwerij de Hemel , which brews beers inside a 12th-century stone monastery. The coolest way to see Nijmegen is without doubt on a private e-chopper tour around town.

Haarlem’s medieval city centre contains many incredible attractions, including the Frans Hals Museum , De Hallen exhibition centre and de Grote Kerk. The city is around 15 minutes away from Amsterdam by train and within biking distance from one of the largest nature reserves in the Netherlands, Zuid-Kennermerland National Park . Book a boat cruise to enjoy the city’s picturesque streets in style.

10. Groningen

12. bourtange.

During the 16th century, the Dutch military built a star shaped fort on the only road leading between Germany and Groningen in order to control this vital trade route. Over the years, a village developed inside and around this awesome stronghold and Bourtange’s fortifications are now completely open to the public.

After an enormous dyke was raised in Zuiderzee during the mid-20th century, the island of Urk became part of the Netherlands proper. Many people on this former island still speak an ancient dialect called Urkish, that sounds considerably different to modern Dutch.

14. Apeldoorn

As Appeldoorn borders the Hoge Veluwe National Park and Ijseel Basin, the city is surrounded by natural beauty. There are also several important historical sites inside Appeldoorn, such as Het Loo Palace which was owned by the Dutch Royal family from 1686 to 1962.

15. Den Burg

Den Burg is the largest village on Texel and lies roughly in the centre of the island, meaning that it’s exceptionally close to many other places of interest, such as Texel Brewery and the Dunes of Texel National Park. Around 6,000 people live in or near the village and there are plenty of amenities inside its borders, including a small cinema, traditional pubs and stores.

16. Valkenburg

Visiting Valkenburg is like taking a step back in time. The city centre is filled with beautiful historic architecture, from the remnants of the city walls and gates to the Gothic Saint Nicholas and Saint Barbara Church featuring beautiful late medieval wood carvings. The ruins of Valkenburg Castle, dating back to the 14th century, are set on a hill above the town and are the highest castle ruins in the Netherlands. Valkenburg is also notable for what lies beneath its surface: a series of tunnels and caves, some man-made and previously used as mines and some natural. During the winter, they play host to a magical underground Christmas market. Recommended by Anahit Behrooz.

Thorn, also known as The White Village of Thorn, is a remarkable town with a remarkable history. The town began as a small settlement sprung up around an abbey, but in the 12th century became its own principality and was known as the smallest independent state in the Holy Roman Empire. Thorn is no less extraordinary today and has developed into a charming Dutch village with cobbled alleyways, small courtyards and the beautiful Gothic church. The town is notable for its characteristic, whitewashed brick houses, providing a contrast to the dark bricks typical of much Dutch architecture and lending the town a fresh, unique feel. Recommended by Anahit Behrooz.

The Most Beautiful Towns in Friesland

We wanted to pay special attention to some of the truly stunning towns, villages and cities in the northwestern province of Friesland, ranging from charming coastal communities to larger, architecturally spectacular settlements. Tom Coggins rounds up the most beautiful towns in the province to explore.

18. Leeuwarden

This picturesque, coastal village serves as the county seat of Terschelling Island . A stunning, multi-tiered lighthouse called Brandaris stands in the centre of the village and has watched over Terschelling’s shores since the 16th century. The village is surrounded by grassy dune lands and looks out onto the Wadden Sea – an area that’s protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

19. Harlingen

Located on the shores of the Wadden Sea in the northern Netherlands, Harlingen is a small town famous for its fishing industry that has become a popular tourist spot in recent years. Visitors can wander the quaint cobbled alleyways, admire the boats sailing from town to sea and take in the beautiful architecture. The town features a charming port filled with boats and ships, as well as numerous historic canal lines with attractive warehouses dating back to the 17th century and traditional houses. The old Harlingen lighthouse, built in the 1920s, still stands and has become the city’s most iconic landmark. You’ll spend some time here on the Seal Safari half-day tour departing from Amsterdam. Recommended by Anahit Behrooz.

Sneek was founded in the 10th century and served as an important trading hub for many years. Like other mercantile cities in the Netherlands, Sneek features a canal belt that was built in order to facilitate water traffic flowing through the city. These waterways lead onto Sneek’s most iconic landmark: the Waterpoort, a Mannerist-style gatehouse with two pointed turrets.

Dokkum’s fortified town walls are among the most well-preserved structures of their kind in the Netherlands and follow a star-shaped canal that circles the city’s historic centre. In springtime, thousands of tulips burst into full bloom in gardens along these defenses, creating a stunning walking route that flows through the city. Dokkum also features two working windmills that stand on the western side of its bulwarks.

This coastal village developed around an ancient church called Mariakerk that was built on an artificial mound in the 13th century. Although the church originally stood inland, it currently overlooks Wierum’s shoreline due to floods and coastal erosion. For most of its history, Wierum’s economy revolved around fishing and there are many monuments in the village dedicated to the trade, including Mariakerk’s ship-shaped weather vane and a memorial on Wierum’s seawall honouring the memory of 22 fisherman who died at sea during a severe storm in 1893.

23. Franeker

Franeker was the second city in the Netherlands to establish a university, which welcomed many famous students during its existence, including French philosopher René Descartes and Prince Willem IV of Orange. Although this institute was disbanded in 1811, Franeker still features several buildings associated with the university, such as the oldest working orrery in the world, the Eise Eisinga Planetarium and Museum Martena , which houses a large collection of academic artefacts.

Makkum lies just beneath the Afsluitdijk causeway, which connects Friesland with North Holland. Like many other towns in Friesland, Makkum grew around an ancient, artificial hill that was built in order to safeguard against the frequent floods that plagued the area until the 20th century. Over the last few decades, this seafaring town has developed into a major beach resort, due to its stunning coastline.

25. Bolsward

Due to its proximity to waterways that flowed between the North Sea and Zuiderzee, this former Hanseatic city was one of the most influential trading centres in Friesland for several centuries. Many buildings from this time have survived until the present day, including Bolsward’s stately town hall that’s recognised as one of the most complete examples of Frisian Renaissance architecture.

Sloten is the smallest city in Friesland and currently houses around 760 inhabitants. Its small population mainly lives inside Sloten’s historic town walls, which are surrounded by a wide moat that feeds into a nearby lake. Aside from its historic fortifications, the city features several other points of interest, including an 18th-century windmill and rows of charming, waterside houses complete with pointed gables.

27. West-Terschelling

This large village lies on the western reaches of Terschelling Island in the Wadden Sea . The area has been inhabited for over 800 years and features one of the oldest lighthouses in the Netherlands, Brandaris, which was completed in 1594. Recommended by Anahit Behrooz.

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Beautiful towns to visit in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a diverse country with a long coastline, one of the greenest countrysides anywhere around, and cities and towns steeped in history. Most visitors to the Netherlands (also popularly known as Holland – though this name only refers to two provinces North- and South Holland) make a beeline for Amsterdam , Utrecht or Rotterdam , and rightfully so. But to get to know the country better, I recommend visiting its smaller towns and villages. Many of these places not only offer charming cobblestone streets and a rich history to delve into, but also lots of cultural attractions, great shopping and top-notch restaurants. Here are 26 beautiful towns in the Netherlands to visit:

Towns in the Netherlands you shouldn’t miss

I’ve lived in this country for most of my life and explored almost every corner of it. There are many towns in the Netherlands I can recommend for a visit so it was a challenge to narrow it down to twenty. I didn’t include places like Utrecht and The Hague as these are bigger, well-known cities, or famous villages like Giethoorn . Instead, I selected smaller or lesser-known cities and a few villages with great historical and cultural importance.

1. Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a historic city in the province of Utrecht ( map ), less than an hour’s drive (or a train ride) from Amsterdam. It’s a gorgeous medieval city with picturesque canals, old city walls and impressive gates.

Stroll along the Langestraat (the medieval town’s main thoroughfare), visit the 15th century Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren (Our Lady tower), the vibrant Hof square, and don’t miss the beautiful Koppelpoort , a unique medieval gate. Read more about things to do in Amersfoort .

This old city – Alkmaar gained city rights in the 13th century – is located about a 45-minute drive northwest of Amsterdam, or a 35+ minute train ride ( map ). Famous for its traditional cheese market, held every Friday morning (April to September) at the Waagplein (Waag square), Alkmaar also has quaint canals, beautiful houses and interesting shops to entice visitors.

Join a walking tour (+cheese market visit). Read more about things to see in Alkmaar . Alkmaar can also be used as a base to explore the countryside of North Holland . Search for hotels in Alkmaar.

Located between The Hague and Rotterdam in South Holland ( map ), Delft is an important historic and cultural centre in the Netherlands. Delft’s main square, Markt (‘Market’), is home to two of the town’s most important buildings, the Nieuwe Kerk (‘New Church’) and the Stadhuis (‘Town Hall’).

The Nieuwe Kerk was completed in 1496 and its bell-tower is an impressive 109 meters tall! This church has an important place in the history of the Dutch monarchy as it’s where the royal family’s burial vault is located. As the birthplace of Vermeer, the famous Dutch artist, a visit to Delft wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the Vermeer Centre ! I also recommend visiting the Royal Delft , the original 17th century Delft Blue ceramics factory. Join a private walking tour of Delft. Read more about things to do in Delft . Search for hotels in Delft.

Haarlem is located about a 30-minute drive/train ride west of Amsterdam ( map ). The capital of the province of North Holland , it’s a town of beautiful medieval cobblestone streets and charming canals but there’s much more to see. The Cathedral of Saint Bavo is one of the must-sees in Haarlem. This Gothic cathedral in the city centre is famous for its 18th century Müller Organ; the likes of Händel and Mozart once played this world-famous organ.

Haarlem is also home to important art museums such as the Teylers Museum and the Frans Hals Museum , dedicated to the famous master. Another must-visit is the historic De Adriaan Windmill (dating from 1779). A canal cruise is a great way to see the town. Read about things to see in Haarlem on a self-guided walking tour.

This city in South Holland ( map ) is home to the country’s oldest university ( Leiden University , since 1575), centuries-old buildings and the famous Leiden Botanical Garden (founded in 1590 and where the tulip was first introduced in Western Europe). Leiden University is still one of the top universities in Europe, having produced 13 Nobel prize winners, and with students from around the world, creates a vibrant, international atmosphere in the city. Leiden is also famous as the birthplace of Rembrandt and played a pivotal role in the Dutch revolt against the Spanish occupation in the 16th century.

Stroll around the picturesque canals, cosy lanes and the city’s ‘hofjes’ (courtyards), visit the Leiden Botanical Garden (Hortus Botanicus Leiden), the Burcht (Castle) of Leiden and the Pieterskerk (which is especially interesting for American visitors due to its connection with the earliest Pilgrims). Just outside the city centre, visit the spectacular Naturalis Biodiversity Centre .

World famous for its cheese, Gouda is one of the most beautiful towns in South Holland ( map ). The Markt (Market Square), with the iconic 15th century Stadhuis (Town Hall), the Waag (weighing house) and the weekly cheese market (every Thursday morning), are the main attractions for most day-trippers, but I recommend spending more time wandering around the town.

The best way to get to know Gouda is to simply stroll around its picturesque canals and streets. Don’t miss the Sint Jan Church , the longest church in the Netherlands and home to stunning stained glass windows. Read more about things to see in Gouda . Search for hotels in Gouda.

This city on the banks of the Ijssel River in the province of Gelderland ( map ) can trace its roots back to the 1st century A.D. In the 12th century, Zutphen joined the Hanseatic League (a commercial and defensive confederation that encompassed major merchant cities in northern Europe, from the Baltics, Scandinavia and Germany to the Netherlands), which resulted in great wealth for the city.

Its medieval core, surrounded by fortifications and moats, is pretty much intact. Enter the gates of Zutphen and discover a town bursting with character. Its picturesque cobblestone streets, squares and courtyards are packed with 400 national monuments. These include beautiful 14th century houses and important buildings such as the Drogenaps and Wijnhuis (Winery) towers, the 11th century Walburgis church and its Librije (library), and the 14th century monastic Broederen church. Search for accommodations in Zutphen.

8. Deventer

Situated downstream along the Ijssel River from Zutphen, in the province of Overijssel ( map ), Deventer is another ancient Hanseatic town (1st century A.D.) with a rich history.

Its main square, Brink , is lined by beautiful houses and the historic Waag (the old weighing house). The adjacent medieval quarter is a gorgeous district to explore. Other main attractions in Deventer include the imposing St. Lebuïnus Church and St. Nicholas Church (a classical concert venue). Search for accommodations in Deventer.

9. Naarden Vesting

A prime example of a star fortress (there are several others in the Netherlands such as Heusden and Fort Bourtange), Naarden Vesting ( map ) is part of the larger town of Naarden, and is a lovely place to visit (just 20 minutes east of Amsterdam). In 1675, the city was fortified with six bastions and two moats which can still be seen till this day.

One of the most famous visitors was Napoleon Bonaparte who came to inspect the fortress in 1811, a year after annexing the Netherlands. I recommend a stroll around Naarden Vesting , which has a lovely mix of restaurants, boutiques, antique stores and art galleries, a walk atop the fortress walls and a visit to the Fortress Museum . At the centre of the town is the Grote Kerk (Great Church), which is famous across the country for its Matthäus – Passion concert every year around Easter.

10. Enkhuizen

This harbour town in the province of North Holland ( map ) was one of the richest in the country in the 17th century! These days, Enkhuizen is especially popular amongst yachting enthusiasts and visitors to the nearby Zuiderzee Museum (an open-air museum that’s dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage and maritime history of the Zuiderzee region).

Among the main attractions of Enkhuizen are the 16th century Drommedaris tower (that now houses a cultural centre and bar), the Oude Haven (Old Harbour), the Westerkerk and Zuiderkerk (Western and Southern churches) and the town’s old fortress walls. There’s even a ship-in-a-bottle museum ( Flessenscheepjes Museum ) with a pretty impressive collection. Search for accommodations in Enkhuizen.

Holland magnets

by velvetescape

Hoorn is a town in North Holland ( map ) that rose to prominence in the 17th century. Don’t miss the gorgeous harbourfront, with its beautiful gabled houses and iconic 16th century Hoofdtoren (‘Head Tower’), the Roode Steen square, the Westfries Museum (a wonderful museum full of artifacts from the Dutch Golden Age) and the Oosterpoort (East Gate). There’s also a steam train that runs from Hoorn to Medemblik, a fun thing to do.

Enkhuizen and Hoorn can be covered as part of a wider road trip from Amsterdam around the Markermeer (the fascinating, man-made Marker Lake). Search for accommodations in Hoorn.

12. Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden is the capital of Friesland , a province in the north of the Netherlands ( map ). In 2018, Leeuwarden was named the European City of Culture. It’s a pleasant city with leafy parks, beautiful canals and a vibrant café culture.

There are around 800 national monuments, including the Oldehove (a leaning, unfinished church tower) and the City Hall . There are also numerous museums to visit including the Fries Museum (a museum dedicated to Frisian art, culture and history) and the Princessehof Ceramics Museum . Search for accommodations in Leeuwarden. Read more about the best places to visit in Friesland .

13. Hindeloopen

This quaint village in the province of Friesland ( map ) is actually an ancient city that was granted city rights in 1225. In the 14th century, Hindeloopen became a member of the Hanseatic League. Local merchants sailed along the North Sea coast to Scandinavia and the Baltics to trade with other Hanseatic cities. This brought great wealth to the city and also led to the development of the unique Hindeloopen language (or Hindeloopers), a mix of West Frisian, English, Danish and Norwegian!

Often listed as one of the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands, Hindeloopen has a busy marina, picturesque lanes and charming houses. Read more about things to see in Hindeloopen .

14. Groningen

The ‘capital of the north’, Groningen ( map ) is the largest city as well as the biggest economic and cultural hub in the north of the Netherlands. A university city that has a history going back almost 1,000 years, Groningen is a must-visit for any visitor venturing north.

During the Middle Ages, Groningen was one of the merchant cities of the Hanseatic League, and due to its isolated location in the north, the city prospered relatively peacefully until the French conquest in the 18th century.

These days, Groningen is a wonderful city to visit. The city centre is an attractive mix of bustling streets and squares, historic and futuristic-looking buildings, and picturesque canals. The main attractions include the Grote Markt (market square) with the adjacent Martini Church (and its iconic tower), the vibrant Vismarkt (fish market square), the colourful Groninger Museum and the pompous Groninger Forum (with great views from the rooftop). I recommend joining a walking tour of Groningen and a canal cruise . Search for accommodations in Groningen.

Zwolle is the capital of the province of Overijssel ( map ). A city with a long history, it experienced its Golden Age in the 15th century. Much like Zutphen and Deventer, Zwolle thrived on trade and joined the Hanseatic League in the 13th century.

The main highlights include the Museum de Fundatie (with its extraordinary ‘egg’ atop a palace), the Sassenpoort (a 15th century tower gate), the Grote Kerk (Big Church), the Peperbus church tower and remnants of the ancient city walls. Zwolle also has the distinction of having the best restaurant in the country: De Librije, an excellent 3-Michelin star restaurant. Search for accommodations in Zwolle.

16. Gorinchem

Gorinchem (or ‘ Gorkum ‘ in the local dialect) is the largest fortress city in the Netherlands, with its impressive moats, ramparts and bastions largely intact since the 17th century. Strategically situated at the confluence of the Linge and Merwede rivers in the province of South Holland ( map ), Gorinchem was first settled in the 11th century and became a fortress town in the 13th century. In the 16th century, after Gorinchem was liberated from Spanish forces during the Eighty Years War, the fortifications were strengthened by the Dutch, structures which can still be seen today.

Places of interest in Gorinchem include the Old City Hall (home to the Gorgums Museum), the Grote Kerk (Main Church), the ‘ Dit is in Bethlehem ‘ house, the Lingehaven (the Linge harbour which runs through the fortress city), the old city walls and the beautiful Langendijk street, with its shops and restaurants. Gorinchem is one of the stops I recommend on a road trip around the Great Rivers region of Central Netherlands .

17. Heusden

Surrounded by impressive moats, fortifications and windmills, Heusden is one of the best preserved medieval towns and star-shaped fortresses in the Netherlands ( map ). Its beautiful 16th century inner harbour, complete with a drawbridge and overlooked by a windmill, is a popular spot for day-trippers, but there are no less than 120 national monuments in the town.

18. Den Bosch

‘s-Hertogenbosch or simply Den Bosch is the capital of the province of North Brabant ( map ). The vibrant city centre is filled with cafés, restaurants, shops and historic monuments so take your time to soak up the wonderful atmosphere. The main attraction in Den Bosch is the iconic St. John’s Cathedral (Sint Janskathedraal), a must-visit in my book. You can also climb the Cathedral tower for great views of the city.

Other places of interest in Den Bosch include the Market square , the Citadel (with its imposing walls), the Binnendieze (the network of canals inside the walled city which can be seen on a cruise), the Museum Quarter (home to the Stedelijk Museum ‘s-Hertogenbosch and Het Noordbrabants Museum) and the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center (born in Den Bosch, Jheronimus Bosch is one of the most influential Dutch masters, along with the likes of Rembrandt and Van Gogh). Search for accommodations in Den Bosch.

19. Dordrecht

Perhaps one of the most under-rated towns in the Netherlands, Dordrecht is an absolutely charming city on an island at the confluence of five rivers ( map ). One of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Dordrecht has a rich merchant history that’s reflected in its beautiful houses and picturesque harbours.

The main attractions in Dordrecht include the Minster or Church of Our Lady , the three historic harbours, and the many stately merchant homes. If possible, I recommend spending the night there to truly experience Dordrecht’s charm. You can also join a walking tour of Dordrecht. Read about things to do in Dordrecht . Search for hotels in Dordrecht.

20. Bergen op Zoom

One of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Bergen op Zoom (or BOZ) is one of my favourites in the south of the country ( map ). For centuries, the city’s strategic location in the province of North Brabant made it an important military and trading centre. During the Dutch wars with Spain and France (17-18th centuries), BOZ was a major stronghold that played a pivotal role.

These days, BOZ, with its cobbled streets, lively squares and ancient buildings, is an absolutely lovely city to visit. The main sights include the Grote Markt square, the 15th century Markiezenhof palace and the 14th century Gevangenpoort , an impressive medieval city gate. Search for hotels in Bergen op Zoom.

21. Middelburg

Middleburg is the capital of the southern province of Zeeland ( map ). During the Dutch ‘Golden Age’ in the 17th century, Middelburg was the wealthiest merchant city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam. Lavish 17th century houses still line the canals that dissect the city.

The main sights in Middelburg include the 12th century Abdij (site of the Zeeuws Museum) with its 90m tall Lange Jan church tower (which you can climb), the stunning late-Gothic Stadhuis (City Hall), the Dam en Prins Hendrikdok (old docks), the octagonal Oostkerk (Eastern church), the 17th century Kloveniersdoelen building and the gorgeous medieval houses in the Kuiperspoort . I also recommend going on a canal cruise to see and learn more about the city’s many monuments. Search for hotels in Middelburg.

Goes is one of the largest towns in the province of Zeeland ( map ) and is located a short drive away from Middelburg. Founded in the 10th century, Goes grew into an important regional centre with medieval fortifications. These days, it’s a bustling town with numerous historic attractions as well as a plethora of shops, restaurants and cafés.

I recommend a visit to the 12th century Mary Magdalene Church (volunteer guides in the church provide a fascinating commentary of the history of the church), the Grote Markt (or main square) and the picturesque Stadshaven (town harbour).

I also suggest having a meal or a drink at Slot Oostende (Oostende Castle), opposite the Mary Magdalene Church. This 13th century castle is now a café/restaurant, hotel and brewery. About a 15-minute drive away lies, Yerseke , the oyster capital of the Netherlands !

Thorn is a small town in the province of Limburg ( map ) with a fascinating history. It is best known as the ‘white city’ due to its whitewashed houses, an unusual sight in the Netherlands. In the 12th century, Thorn formed the smallest independent principality in the German Holy Roman Empire, a status that lasted till the 18th century. I recommend spending a few hours wandering around this little whitewashed town and tasting some of the local wines.

24. Maastricht

The capital of the province of Limburg, Maastricht ( map ) is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. Due to its favourable location on the banks of the River Meuse (Maas), the city grew from a simple Roman settlement in the 1st century AD to a thriving cultural and trading centre and an important pilgrimage destination in the Middle Ages.

Over the centuries, Maastricht was conquered by a slew of powers such as Spain and France, the influence of which can still be seen till this day. The city exudes a unique joie de vivre which, I’m quite sure, stems from this southern European influence.

Maastricht boasts more than 1,600 national heritage buildings, lively squares and charming cobblestone streets. I therefore recommend spending some time here to explore and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene.

The main things to see in Maastricht include the 13th century St. Servatius bridge (the oldest bridge in the Netherlands), the medieval city walls and Helpoort (Hell’s Gate), the Vrijthof (the city’s largest square), Basilica of St. Servatius and the adjacent Church of St. John , and the Basilica of Our Lady at the atmospheric Onze Lieve Vrouwplein (Our Lady’s square). Search for accommodations in Maastricht.

25. Nijmegen

Nijmegen , nestled along the scenic banks of the River Waal in the province of Gelderland ( map ), is a lovely city that’s often touted as the oldest in the Netherlands. Founded in the 1st century B.C. as a Roman settlement, Nijmegen boasts a charming old town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and inviting cafes.

Visitors shouldn’t miss the Grote Markt (market square), the impressive Stevenskerk (Church of St. Stephen) or wander through the lush greenery of Valkhof Park , which has panoramic views of the river and remains of a 12th century castle.

Nijmegen is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters. It also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the ‘ Nijmeegse Vierdaagse ‘, or International Four Day March. Held every in July, tens of thousands of people participate in this march, the world’s largest multiple day walking event.

26. Orvelte

Orvelte, nestled in the heart of the picturesque province of Drenthe ( map ), is a true step back in time for visitors. This enchanting open-air museum village is a living testament to Drents history and rural life. Its well-preserved cobblestone streets, traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, and quaint shops offer a glimpse into the past, making it feel like you’ve entered a time warp to the 19th century.

Stroll through the village, where you can witness artisans at work and visit charming museums. Orvelte’s setting amidst lush forests and heathlands adds to its allure, making it a gorgeous place for a tranquil stroll.

If you love castles, read my post about the best castles in The Netherlands to visit .

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4 Responses

Wow Netherland is a very beautiful country there are many places to visit. your article is so amazing I feel i am actaully in Netherland.

Wow! That is amazing! Netherlands is such a beautiful place! I didn’t know there are so many towns to visit there!

More blogs to come! Cheers!

Thanks Rob! Yes, there’s a lot to see in NL! 🙂

I love this article! Very nice Keith! So much more to explore in my own country 😊

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25 Best Towns and Cities in the Netherlands to Visit in Your Lifetime

If you’re looking for the best towns and cities in the Netherlands to visit in your lifetime, you’ve come to the right place.

The first things that come to mind when you think about this country are probably canals, windmills, tulips, museums, and stroopwafel, but it is so much more than that.

It’s also where I found kind locals, a welcoming atmosphere, and an abundance of charm I cannot explain in words. So if you’re ready to learn more about this incredible destination, here’s a must-save bucket list.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Towns and Cities to Visit in the Netherlands’ Western Provinces

Starting with the obvious, a trip to the Netherlands has to include at least a couple of days in Amsterdam.

Beyond its picturesque canals, internationally famous museums, and historical landmarks, people fall in love with its laid-back vibe and inviting atmosphere.

The highlights of this beautiful city include the Royal Palace, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt House Museum, and Oude Kerk (a 13th-century church/art center and the oldest building in Amsterdam), but you’ll literally find dozens of museums in Amsterdam and other fun things to do and see.

Amsterdam also offers a fantastic food scene and buzzing nightlife (there are literally dozens of pubs, clubs, and rooftop bars in Amsterdam ), and it’s a great base for exploring other towns and cities in the Netherlands.

Last but not least, it might seem like it’s only a popular destination for groups of friends, but you can also visit Amsterdam with kids .

By Kat from Wandering Bird

Volendam is a tiny but popular village built on the shores of Markermeer Lake and is one of the most charming places in the Netherlands. 

It’s famous for the colorful wooden houses along the lakefront and the cute shops. There’s a museum – home to paintings, sculptures, and pottery from the past 200 years, as well as a mosaic made from millions of cigar bands!

It’s also known for the local cheese – be sure to try some from one of the stores which make and sell it. 

You can get to Volendam by public transport or tour on a day trip from Amsterdam, but the best way to visit is with your own vehicle.

This will allow you to stay longer and enjoy the evening atmosphere once the crowds have gone, as well as watch the beautiful sunset from the beach by the lake.

If you’re  motorhoming in the Netherlands , there’s a wonderful campsite right on the beach. There are also several hotels and BnBs to choose from.

By Sam from  My Flying Lea p

When you think of the Netherlands, tulips and windmills are the iconic images that come to mind.

The best place to see windmills is Zaandijk, a village in the Dutch countryside that’s just a short train ride north of Amsterdam.

Zaandijk is known for its specialty museum, Zaanse Schans. It’s a recreated Dutch village with picturesque windmills and brightly painted wooden homes. In Zaanse Schans, you can step back in time to the 17th and 18th centuries and tour the windmills. 

Go on a canal cruise, learn how to make the famous Dutch wooden shoes, tour a bakery and cheese shop, and try a freshly-made stroopwafel with coffee. One taste of the melted caramel, and you’ll wonder how you ever did without them.

Though there’s much more to the town of Gouda than just cheese, if you decide to visit this charming place, you have to immerse yourself in some cheese-related activities.

These include learning about it at the Gouda Cheese Experience, visiting the De Goudse Waag (the weighting house), and witnessing the rituals of the traditional Cheese Market (taking place in front of the old City Hall on Thursday mornings from April to August).

Other visit-worthy places in Gouda are the Sint-Jan Church, Syrup Waffle Factory (perfect for stroopwafel addicts like me), and Museumhaven – an open-air museum preserving old Dutch ships (located in one of the city’s canals).

By Samantha from  Sam Sees World

Haarlem is one of the best city breaks in the Netherlands for its beauty and unmistakable charm.

It has been dubbed a “mini Amsterdam,” and it offers a welcome escape from the busy streets of the Dutch capital. The less-touristy environment makes Haarlem the perfect place to visit if you want to see a real and vibrant Dutch city.

One of the top things to do in Haarlem is to visit the famous Grote Markt. It is located in the center of the city and is full of great restaurants, charming cafes, and stunning landmarks.

After this, you can walk to Molen de Adriaan, which is an iconic Dutch windmill in the city center. As one of Haarlem’s most famous landmarks (that has been around since the 18th century), it is a must-visit!

By Emma from Emma Jane Explores

Kinderdijk  is a UNESCO-listed village in Molenlanden, located near the city of Rotterdam. This gorgeous area is famous for the rows and rows of windmills that pump water and essentially stop the region from flooding.  

The windmills here are also home to the village residents and have been on the land at Kinderdijk since the 1700s.

There are many walking and cycling trails that make the town easy to explore at your own pace, and for those wanting to take a peek inside, there is even a museum in a preserved windmill that gives a sense of what life is like here.

Here, you’ll see glimpses of real Dutch life, from millers working hard with wooden clogs on their feet to farm animals and livestock in the fields, all against the backdrop of the remarkable windmills. It’s hard to imagine a more quintessentially Dutch scene.

By Nicole from Bucket List Lists

One of the best towns to visit in the Netherlands is Lisse! Visiting this town is something you can easily add to your  Amsterdam bucket list  because of how close it is, about 16 miles (25.5 km) away.

Getting to Lisse is quite easy if you are based in Amsterdam. You can take the bus, and the ride is just under an hour, or take a car for about 30 minutes, traffic dependent.

Lisse is notable as the most beautiful place to see tulips in the springtime . There are millions of tulips to see here in the famous Keukenhof Flower Garden, usually from the end of March to the middle of May.

Other places to visit in Lisse include Castle Keukenhof and Sint-Agathakerk.

By Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

Rotterdam is a great city to visit at any time of the year. Extensively bombed during WWII, Rotterdam can’t rely on picturesque beauty like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and so many other Dutch towns.

So it has imaginatively reinvented itself, and everywhere you go, there are interesting buildings and quirky architecture to delight in.

There’s plenty to see here from Mini World to the Maritime Museum, and if you’re visiting  the Netherlands with kids , don’t miss the wonderful Plaswijckpark, which is huge and full of fun activities and play equipment to enjoy.

There’s a great emerging foodie scene in Rotterdam too, making it the perfect place to linger over meals and try different food. It’s somewhere very different from the usual offerings in the Netherlands, and there’s so much to enjoy here.

You can easily get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam by train.

By Jennifer of  Family Trip Guide s

The town of Wassenaar is just 14 miles (22.5 km) from The Hague and 33.5 miles (54 km) from Amsterdam, but it feels like a world away.

In the spring, you can drive and walk around the beautiful flower and tulip fields that are protected from the ocean by the dunes surrounding Wassenaar.

The main attraction in the town is the delightful Duinrell Holiday Park. It was opened in 1935 but has been modernly updated. It is located in a beautiful forest near the dunes, a kilometer from town.

There is an endless supply of fun for all ages at Duinrell. It has the largest waterpark in the Benelux with 21 slides. Also, the amusement park includes over 40 different attractions.

On your way back, make sure to drive through the most expensive street in the Netherlands, Groot Haesebroekseweg, just south of Duinrell.

By Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

Leiden is a quaint college town, located approximately 40 minutes away from Amsterdam by train. Home to Leiden University, it is famous for being Rembrandt van Rijn’s birthplace, as well as its plethora of museums. 

As Rembrandt’s hometown, you’ll find Rembrandtpark in Leiden, which includes a statue and a mural commemorating the life and work of the great Dutch artist. It is a relaxing spot for a short stroll and is the perfect place to eat lunch or take in the views of the nearby windmill, Molen de Put. 

You’ll also find a few interesting museums in Leiden, including the National Museum of Antiquities, Naturalist Biodiversity Center, Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, and Museum of Ethnology.

The National Museum of Antiquities has an especially large collection of antiquities from Ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome. It is well worth the visit if you’re a history buff. 

You’ll definitely want to add  Leiden to your Netherlands itinerary ! 

Although it’s the third-largest city in the country, the Hague might not come to mind when thinking about beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands. But, in fact, it can be a wonderful day trip from Amsterdam.

First of all, the city is home to must-visit art museums like Mauritshuis, Kunstmuseum Den Haag, and Escher in Het Paleis.

It’s also where you’ll find unique museums like the Children’s Book Museum, Prison Gate Museum (Museum de Gevangenpoort), and my favorite – Madurodam – an impressive open-air miniature park.

In the Hague, you can also wander the streets of the city center and visit places like the old town hall, Peace Palace, and Noordeinde Palace.

Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands’ Central Provinces

Thanks to a compact yet utterly enchanting historic city center, Amersfoort is a must-visit on a trip to the Netherlands.

Some of its highlights include the Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren (the third-tallest church tower in the Netherlands), Koppelpoort (a picturesque medieval watergate), St George’s Church, and Mondriaan House.

To enjoy Amersfoort’s true charm, take your time and roam its maze of streets, alleys, and canals, which will make you want to move there. Don’t miss out on the circular street of Muurhuizen, which is where the city walls used to stand.

By Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

The picturesque city of Utrecht is just a forty-minute drive south of Amsterdam, and here you will find an incredible selection of activities to entertain everyone.

Start at the Nijntje Museum (or Miffy Museum), which celebrates the work of illustrator Dick Bruna who created the bright and colorful rabbit Miffy, perfect if you’re on a  family holiday to Holland .

Take a stroll along the canals and over the bridges of Utrecht to take in the city’s uniquely sedate way of life before climbing the Dom Tower in the heart of the old town (where you can get spectacular views of Utrecht’s historic architecture).

Seek out the Museum Speelklok, where ancient mechanical musical machines sit alongside Dutch street organs, before grabbing a pancake or two at De Muntkelder, one of the finest local pancake houses.

End your day with a peaceful pedalo ride along the canals for a unique view of this endearing city.

Best Cities in the Netherlands to Visit in Its Southern Provinces

By Daniela from Exploring the Netherlands

They call Maastricht “the pearl of the South,” and indeed, Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. It’s also a popular day-trip destination among the locals.

One of the  most famous attractions in Maastricht  is the Dominicanen Bookstore, located in a former Gothic church. For the best views of the city, climb the tower of St John’s Church.

Afterward, relax at one of the cafés on the famous Vrijthof Square. In the winter, the most magical Christmas market in the Netherlands takes place in this square, and in the summer, the world-famous conductor André Rieu and his orchestra are having performances.

Stroll along the cobbled streets and discover the small squares scattered around the old town. Take a look at the ramparts, and walk along the oldest bridge in the city – St Servatius Bridge. If you love modern art, visit the lovely Bonnefanten Museum.

Super scenic and rich in history, Middelburg has to be on your Netherlands bucket list.

It’s one of the oldest cities in the country and home to countless landmarks, including the Long John Abbey Tower, Town Hall, and Middelburg Abbey.

You’ll also fall in love with its picture-perfect old harbor, historic center packed with restaurants and shops, and weekly market, taking place on Thursdays.

On paper, it might seem similar to other cities in the Netherlands, but Middelburg has its own charm, and visiting it is a great way to explore the country off the beaten path.

Located in the province of North Brabant near the border with Belgium, Breda is one of the top cities in the Netherlands. From the city center’s bustling streets to museums to historical buildings, there’s plenty to do and see here.

Visit landmarks like the Breda Castle, Bouvigne Castle, and Great Church, explore the quirky Bierreclame Museum (Beer Advertising Museum), and have a cup of coffee or a beer at one of Breda’s many restaurants and cafes.

Located about half an hour by car and less than 45 minutes by public transport from Breda, you should also visit the incredible Efteling theme park. It’s where beloved fairytales come to life in the most majestic way, and even as an adult, I guarantee you’ll get excited like a kid!

By Frans from Ask the Dutch Guy

Eindhoven  is the fifth biggest city in the Netherlands. Besides the Philips Museum, which is one of the most renowned attractions in the city, it’s also a vibrant center of creative design.

There are a lot of museums and modern architecture worth seeing when you’re in this part of the Netherlands, and Eindhoven was even named as the world’s most innovative city by Forbes. 

Eindhoven is also a foodie paradise! There are many places to eat here, and you can find almost anything here, whether you fancy Dutch food or you’re looking for some Asian fusion. 

While you’re here, make sure you stop by at the Strijp-S, a former warehouse turned into a creative area filled with independent shops and quirky architecture to enjoy. Indeed, there’s something here for everyone, and you should definitely experience it!

Do you love city escapes? Here are the best European winter breaks , the perfect travel sneakers roundup, and the best cities to visit in Poland , Hungary , Portugal , Germany , and Austria !

Prettiest Towns and Cities in the Netherlands’ Northern Provinces

By Lotte from Eschbach Consulting

Leeuwarden is the capital of the province of Friesland, found in the north of the Netherlands. As the European Cultural Capital of 2018, it should come as no surprise that Leeuwarden has plenty to offer!  

The historic city center is very walkable, and there are several worthwhile attractions to be found here. Climb to the top of ‘de Oldehove,’ Leeuwarden’s very own tilted tower.

Families with young kids are advised to park their strollers at the bottom of the tower and carry their children up. While there is an elevator to the first floor, you’ll have to climb some stairs to get to the next level, which has the best views.  

Follow the Miniature People Route and discover little puppets hidden all around the city center. Or visit the Natural Museum of Fryslân where you can learn more about the history of the area and the surrounding nature.

By Victoria from  Guide Your Travel

Groningen is a mid-sized Dutch city located in the north of the Netherlands.

This is a popular student city with vibrant nightlife and plenty of things to do (and surprisingly, even some expats choose to live in Groningen ). You should come here for beautiful architecture, a laid-back atmosphere, and great bars and restaurants.

Definitely stop by the Groninger Museum, which has an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.

For an experience closer to nature, head to the Lauwersmeer National Park, which lies just outside the city. This is a beautiful spot to watch wildlife and enjoy hiking or bike rides.

You’ll also love the city’s many landmarks like the Aa-Kerk, the Groningen Synagogue, the Martinikerk, and the impressive Martinitoren.

You should spend at least a weekend in Groningen if not more to see all the important sights. Don’t forget to pack your camera!

Most Beautiful Towns and Cities in the Netherlands’ Eastern Provinces

By Paulina from Paulina on the Road

The protected city of Nijmegen is the oldest in the Netherlands and will remind you of Roman times. It is a great place to visit as it is full of magnificent historic buildings and plazas that are centuries old.

Plus, it is the home to the country’s oldest shopping street, the Lange Hezelstraat. It also offers a bunch of things to do and see. 

Start with visiting the Museum De Bastei to discover the nature and the phenomenal history of the river region, from ice-age animals to water management. Followed by it, soak up centuries of historical stories at the Wijchen Castle.

Apart from the popular landmarks, the city also has exciting nightlife offers from cozy pubs to hip clubs. Don’t miss out on shopping for  hemp clothing brands  from the city’s oldest shopping streets. Surround yourself with lively parks, squares, and cafes.

By Dymphe from  Dym Abroad

One of the best cities to see in the Netherlands is Zwolle. It is a wonderful place to visit with its historic center and the interesting buildings within it. Its houses have a beautiful architectural style, and the city’s history goes back almost 1200 years!

What’s also fun is that Zwolle is a smaller city that is not visited by many tourists. That means that you can better experience what local life in a Dutch city is like here.

There are some great things to do and see in the city, including the Grote Kerk, the Sassenpoort Gatehouse, and Museum de Fundatie. Besides that, Zwolle is home to many restaurants serving delicious food!

Also known as the Dutch Venice, Giethoorn is what dreams are made of. Seriously, I would pack my bags and move to this picture-perfect village if it hadn’t become such a popular touristic place.

Packed with adorable houses, narrow canals, and colorful boats, Giethoorn’s beauty is best enjoyed in spring and summer, but if you’re looking for tourist-free spots in the country, this is not it.

By Cosette from KarsTravels

Deventer is an old city situated in the Northeastern of the Netherlands. Being one of the oldest cities in the country and one of the most important cities in the Hanseatic League, Deventer has a rich history.

You can discover it at Museum de Waag, a monumental building from the Middle Ages that now functions as a museum.

On a city walk, you can admire other historical buildings, like the oldest park (Worpplantsoen), the oldest stone house, and the oldest scientific library (the Athenaeumbibliotheek).

Other things you shouldn’t miss in Deventer are the Speelgoedmuseum Deventer (Toys museum) and a visit to the famous Deventer Koekwinkel, where they sell Deventer koek – a cookie made with a recipe from the Middle Ages.

When visiting in December, don’t miss the  Dickens Festival , when Deventer turns into a village from a Dickens story.

By Frans from Badass2go

As a born citizen of Steenwijk, I know every ins and outs of the city. It lays down in the middle of the Weerribben National Park with the beautiful villages of Giethoorn and Kalenberg next door.

The biggest attractions in Steenwijk include the square market with all its restaurants and shops, the Hildo Krop Museum, and of course, our own Sint Clemens Church.

This church is 87 meters high, and you definitely need to climb this one because from up there, you have a superb view over Steenwijk and its surrounding. The entrance fee is €2,50.

An insider tip is to rent an electric scooter by  Badass2go  to explore the city and its surrounding. This electric scooter looks like a Harley Davidson, and riding a bike like this is an experience on its own.

By Shobna from Just Go Places

Arnhem has to be one of the most beautiful towns in the Netherlands. Right when you come into the Arnhem train station directly from Amsterdam, you can admire the station itself, which is an award-winning architectural marvel.

Many sites in the town center are within walking distance. Make sure you see the Eusebius Church, which has recently been rebuilt after heavy bombing during WWII. There is a glass elevator that whisks you up to the top of the church tower, which has fabulous views over the surrounding countryside.

Much of the medieval town center was destroyed during WWII because the Allies launched an attack on the Nazi forces in this town. Called Operation Market Garden, the attack failed because the Nazis heavily defended the town since  Arnhem  is located at the border near Germany.

The story of Operation Market Garden is told in two war museums, including a small one near the John Frost Bridge, which was the primary objective of the attack.

Click here to access the My Maps interactive map that includes all of these places in the Netherlands.

Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

30+ Beautiful towns & cities in the Netherlands you MUST visit!

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 29th January 2024

Categories Netherlands

Last Updated on 29th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Between endless canals, centuries-old canal houses, and bright tulip fields, you certainly don’t need to look hard to discover that there are plenty of beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands! Here are some of the very best towns and cities in the Netherlands you must visit on your next Dutch adventure!

#1 Amersfoort

#3 amsterdam, #9 the hague, #10 utrecht, #11 eindhoven, #13 middelburg, #14 groningen, #16 zwolle , #17 deventer, #19 amstelveen, #20 den bosch, #21 rotterdam, #22 helmond, #23 leeuwarden, #24 maastricht, #25 roermond, #27 dordrecht, #29 volendam, #30 giethoorn, #32 bergen op zoom, map of the best cities and towns in the netherlands, enjoyed reading about the best cities in the netherlands pin it now, read it again later:, best towns and cities in the netherlands.

If you’re looking for Netherlands cities to visit that are full of history and fantastic architecture, then you need to look no furthr than Amersfoort. Located in the province of Utrecht, Amersfoort is an ancient city with evidence of human inhabitation of the area dating back to at least 1000 BCE.

Search for images of the city online and you’ll soon be rewarded with snaps of the iconic Koppelpoort, a medieval bridge constructed at the beginning of the 15th-century. Other things to do in Amersfoort include the Mondriaan House (yes, the artist Mondrian!) and the church tower of Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren.

For those who are searching for one of the best and least touristic of small towns in the Netherlands to visit during their time in Europe, Arnhem is found in the East of the country in the Province of Gelderland.

Surrounded by natural parks such as Hoge Veluwe National Park and Veluwezoom National Park, as you can imagine some of the best things to do nearby include hiking trails and getting lost in nature.

Of course, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands is its capital city, Amsterdam. Canalside houses, hidden gems ,  quaint museums , and plenty of churches: Amsterdam is a fairly compact city that’s easy to explore over the course of a few days.

While in the city, be sure not to miss out on the Rijksmuseum (home to several works of art by Rembrandt) and the Jordaan district, a trendy area that’s characterised by its narrow canals and quirky eateries.

Thanks to its many transport links across the rest of the Netherlands, easy day trips can be taken to plenty of other Dutch destinations; such as the tulip fields of Keukenhof or the mills of Kinderdijk.

Situated in the Province of North Holland and well-known for its cheese production, visit the Netherlands at the right time of the year and you can even expect to enjoy the world-famous Alkmaar cheese market.

The event is easy to reach as a day trip from Amsterdam and typically takes place on a weekly basis from the end of March to the end of September each year.

The Dutch city of Tilburg can be found in North Brabant, which despite what you might believe from its name, is actually found in the South of the Netherlands.

Easily one of the largest cities in the Netherlands, Tilburg is home to a population of around 220,000 residents. Some of the best things to do once there include the Museum of Contemporary Art and a textile museum about the history of manufacturing in the region.

If you’re looking for Holland off-the-beaten-path, then Leiden offers a plethora of hidden gems . Full of cosy cafés, bagel bars, and plenty of secret spots, indeed no visit to the Netherlands would be complete without a trip to the university city of Leiden.

After all, the oldest bar in the city is where the Heineken Star originated, while the classical feel of the city meant that Leiden was chosen for filming the Miniaturist (which is actually set in Amsterdam!) . Nearby, Kasteel Duivenvoorde dates back centuries, is one of the most beautiful castles in Holland and is even surrounded by a moat!

Located under half an hour from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a pretty city characterised by its brick façades and wealth of canals. Easily one of the best day trips you can take from the Dutch capital city, Haarlem can be explored over the course of a day, or longer if you have a little more time. Top attractions in the Dutch city include the Teylers Museum of Cultural History and soaking up the atmosphere of the Grote Markt.

One of the lesser-known cities and off the beaten path cities in the Netherlands is the charming settlement of Zutphen. Located in the province of Gelderland, the town is characterised by its leafy surrounds and wealth of stunning Dutch architecture.

Particular highlights of Zutphen include many historic towers (there are so many that the city is often referred to as the ‘tower city’) and the The Walburgis, a building which was first established as a Roman collegiate church during the 11th-century.

Underrated and often missed in favour of more popular Dutch attractions, The Hague is home to the city  and  the beach. And in a country like the Netherlands, this is the kind of fact that shouldn’t be easily overlooked!

Of all the cities near Amsterdam, the Hague is one of the easiest to reach as a day trip from Amsterdam, or as a weekend escape in its own right.  The city even has a great vegan scene .

After all, the endless stretch of sand at Scheveningen is breathtakingly beautiful and the boardwalk there is filled with eateries in the summer months. Nearby, old-town Scheveningen was once a historic town in its own right though it’s been since absorbed into the fabric of The Hague.

Nevertheless, the suburb retains its own vibe and it’s here where you can taste pickled herring, a local speciality. All in all, if you’re looking for one of the best cities in Holland, then you simply need to head to The Hague.

Easy to reach as a day trip from Amsterdam, one of the prettiest cities in the Netherlands is that of Utrecht, a town with attractions such as a medieval heart, countless historic churches, and the endless canals that are so synonymous with Holland.

Other things to do in this town in Holland include stepping inside the Gothic St Martin’s Cathedral and visiting the Centraal Museum, which is dedicated to local history and art.

With easy transport links to the rest of the country, Eindhoven can easily be explored as a day trip from somewhere else, though is well worth visiting over the course of a weekend if you have some extra time to spare. Once in Eindhoven, highlights include several museums (must-sees include the Van Abbe Museum and the DAF Museum) and plenty of modern architecture.

Did someone say cheese? No doubt you’ve heard of Gouda before, thanks to its namesake cheese. But what you may well not know is that Gouda is so much more than its namesake cheese .

From pretty canals to churches disguised as houses, this city has a plethora of activities worth discovering and is well worth exploring over the course of a long weekend.

Highlights of Gouda include the De Goudse Waag (a historic cheese weighing house) , the city’s standalone town hall with its mechanical clock, and a windmill that still sells its own freshly ground flour in the shop next door.

Head to Gouda on a Thursday from the beginning of April until the end of August and you can expect to find the traditional cheese market in full swing!

The capital city of the province of Zeeland, Middelburg has a distinctively different feel from many other cities in the Netherlands thanks to its position quite literally surrounded by the sea.

As a result, you can expect to find plenty of sea-inspired items on restaurant menus, as well as several museums. Of particular note is the Zeeuws Museum, which features the area’s history set against the backdrop of a former abbey.

If you’re looking to go a little off the beaten tourist track during your time in the Netherlands, then hands down you need to make your way to Groningen. Once in Groningen, some of the best things to do include a fantastic modern art museum and enjoying some of the historical architecture dotted across the city.

For those familiar with European pottery, no doubt ‘Delftware’ is a term you’ll have heard of before. The pretty city of Delft sits midway between the Hague and Rotterdam and can easily be visited as a day trip from either city (especially if you’re planning to cycle from The Hague).

To get an idea of how the city is laid out, be sure to head up the tower of Nieuwe Kerk, which offers a fantastic bird’s eye perspective of the town’s main square. Meanwhile, elsewhere in Delft, de De Delftse Pauw offers factory tours, as well as the chance to purchase some authentic Delftware.

Pretty and the second largest city in the province of Overijssel (of which it also happens to be the capital) after Enschede, Zwolle has a population of around 125,000 residents. Some of the best things to do in Zwolle include an art museum set against the backdrop of a 19th-century palace (Museum de Fundatie) and the Sassenpoort, a 15th-century medieval tower with regular exhibits.

This small city of around 100,000 residents can be found in North Holland somewhere between Apeldoorn and Enschede. Top attractions of Deventer include the Fooddock (an old industrial harbour turned food hall) and the Museum de Waag, which is home to one of the oldest weighing houses in the Netherlands.

Located in the South of the country, in the province of North Brabant, the pretty city of Breda can be found just under an hour away from the substantial port city of Antwerp. Inextricably linked with Dutch Royal History (the city is where the Princes of Orange spent much of their time), Breda is easily one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands.

Some of the best things to do in Southerly Dutch city, which counts several castles among its many attractions, including admiring the beautiful cathedral and visiting the historic beguinage. If you have a little more time to explore, then I highly recommend heading south of the city and paying a visit to the impossibly picturesque Kasteel Bouvigne.

Easy to reach as a day trip from Amsterdam thanks to its status as being part of the suburban part of the metropolitan area of the Dutch capital, Amstelveen is home to plenty of green spaces and many a museum. The town also has easy access to Amsterdam Bos (Amsterdam Forest), where it’s possible to enjoy a plethora of outdoor-inspired activities.

One of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands is that of Den Bosch (full name  ‘s-Hertogenbosch ), which is the capital of the North Brabant region of the Netherlands. Characterised by its brick buildings and many waterways, the city has a population of around 150,000 residents.

Futuristic architecture, plenty of bridges, and a fantastic foodie scene: there is no city in the Netherlands, nor indeed in Europe, quite like Rotterdam . And that’s a great thing!

Following WWII, the city was near flattened, leaving behind a blank space on which a multitude of fascinating architectural structures have since been constructed. All in all, Rotterdam is one of the most unusual cities in Rotterdam.

Highlights of Rotterdam include several impressive bridges (most notably the Erasmus Bridge), some pretty out-of-this-world-architecture (make sure to check out the Cube House Rotterdam), and a culinary scene to rival any capital city in Europe ( the Markthal is a feat of architecture and has dozens of eateries).

Though less known that the world-famous Rotterdam, Helmond too has its own set of fantastical cube houses, which were designed by Piet Blom during the mid-twentieth century. This Dutch city is to be found in the province of  North Brabant and is historically best-known for its textile production.

Known locally as  Liwwadden  in Stadfries and  Ljouwert  in West Frisian, the town of Leeuwarden has a population of around 120,000 residents. The provincial capital of Friesland, this city is to be found in the North of the Netherlands.

Some of the best things to do in the city of Leeuwarden includes spying the Oldehove unfinished and leaning church, as well as the Frisian Museum, which features displays on local history.

If you’re looking for rolling hills and all the history, then Maastricht simply must be on your list for places to visit in the Netherlands. After all, it was here that the real-life d’Artagnan was killed and it’s also here where you’ll find one of the coolest bookstores in Europe, a shop housed within a former Dominican church.

Close to the border with both Germany and Belgium, highlights of Maastricht include exploring the historic city centre, visiting one of the city’s many museums, and even staying in a former church if you feel so inclined.

If you have a little time while in the city, be sure to make the bicycle trip out to Chateau St. Gerlach for afternoon tea, a lavish country house where you can even book to stay !

For those in search of a pretty city with plenty of history, Roermond is the place to go. Located in the South East of the country, the settlement gained town rights in 1231 and was instrumental to the economics of the Duchy of Guelders. Today, the last Grand Duchy in the world is that of Luxembourg , a landlocked country in Europe.

Elburg gained its fishing rights in 1313, making it one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands to have been granted this status. Located in the province of Gelderland, top attractions in this Dutch settlement include the rather unusually appointed Organ Museum, as well as of course, a Grote Kerk (great church) .

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Rotterdam (or, alternatively, a short ferry ride) , Dordrecht is allegedly the oldest city in the Netherlands. Once upon a time, Dordrecht (which is known as Dort in English) was not an island but actually a part of the mainland Netherlands.

However, a flood (known locally as Saint Elisabeth’s Flood) on the 18–19 November 1421 led to a giant mass of extra was that caused the city to become an island.

Visit the city today, and highlights of Dordrecht include admiring the unfinished Minster, exploring the Dordrechts Museum, which features plenty of Dutch masters, and dining at Coffeelicious, where I ate some of the very best pancakes of my life!

With a population of just over seventy thousand residents, Hoorn is not the largest of the Dutch cities, and nor is it the smallest. Located in North Holland, some of the best things to do in this off the beaten path city include the Museum of the 20th-century and the Halve Maen Museum.

Pretty and by Markermeer Lake, Volendam is a unique Dutch settlement with timber-framed houses which are brightly painted. Historically Volendam made its money as a fishing port and still today it’s possible to learn all about the history of the town at the Volendam Museum. Feeling a little peckish? Sample some of the local cheese at the Volendam cheese factory.

The fairytale town of Giethoorn can be found in the North of the Netherlands and is like something straight out of a storybook. After all, where else in Europe do the residents not own cars but instead paddle their way around their home city?

The village centre is inaccessible by car and the houses are connected by a series of small interconnected bridges. Does this stunning place in the Netherlands sound dreamy enough for you yet? Check out my friend Christina’s guide to Giethoorn for more information on how to visit this pretty as a postcard town!

Best-known as being home to the Keukenhof Gardens , Lisse is a pretty town in the South Holland Province. Though you’ll likely only visit the settlement if you’re headed to the ‘Garden of Europe’ or wish to see the tulip fields that surround Lisse, other highlights of the town include a tulip museum and Castle Keukenhof, which is open throughout the year.

Dating back to the 13th-century and a little off the beaten tourist track, Bergen op Zoom is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands. And not just because of its many cobbled lanes and picturesque brick façades.

Instead, Bergem op Zoom is home to sights such as the medieval Gevangenpoort and Het Markiezenhof, a 15th-century palace turned museum. All in all, Bergen op Zoom is easily one of the most beautiful towns in the Netherlands.

If you recognise the name ‘Edam’ thanks to the world-famous cheese, then you’re not wrong! After all, this Dutch town gives its name to the iconic dairy product, and visitors will be delighted to discover that this is not all the fishing town has to offer.

Located in the province of North Holland, some of the best things to do in Edam include the 14th-century bell tower (all that’s left of a historic church), visiting the Edam Museum (which is housed against the backdrop of a 15th-century house), and the 15th-century cathedral ( Grote Kerk ).

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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25 Most Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

Which are the most beautiful places in the Netherlands? This post contains a selection of the most beautiful cities , little towns and villages , castles , gardens and nature parks in the Netherlands. It provides inspiration for everyone who wants to visit the country but doesn’t know what are the must-sees and where to start. Discover the Netherlands with these 25 amazing places!

I have divided those charming places in 5 categories. I thought it would be fair if I include 5 entries per category, thus I can show you the diversity the Netherlands can offer to all visitors.

You can scroll through the list or you can choose a category from the drop-down menu that’s of interest to you. There is also a handy map, with all places indicated on it, which will help you to better plan your stay in the country.

De Biesbosch

Loonse en drunense duinen, alde feanen, de haar castle, hoensbroek castle, slot loevestein, ammersoyen castle, the gardens of appeltern, the castle gardens of arcen, the castle garden of oud-valkenburg, botanical garden in kerkrade, final words, 5 most beautiful cities in the netherlands.

Amsterdam with its spiderweb of canals and the stepped-gable houses alongside the water is perhaps the most visited place in the Netherlands and undeniably one of the most beautiful cities not only in the Netherlands but in the world. When you visit the Netherlands for the first time, the Dutch capital should be on your bucket list. Take a boat trip along the canals (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visit a museum or two if you have more time. If you are a fan of Van Gogh, you won’t be disappointed, as the Van Gogh Museum has the biggest collection of the artist’s works. The Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank Museum are also a must.

Tip: When planning your visit to Amsterdam, check out these 4 walking routes in the Dutch capital . The post contains also a map for an easy self-guided tour.

Read more: Best things to do and see in Amsterdam if you are visiting only for a day

Den Bosch, or ‘s-Hertogenbosch, is the major city of North Brabant – the Dutch province that’s famous for the good food and the joie-de-vivre life style. Admire the majestic St. John’s Cathedral ( Sint-Janskathedraal ) and take a boat tour in the old city sewerage ( De Binnendieze ). Don’t miss to take a beer on De Parade (a square near the cathedral) and if you are fan of the Medieval painter Hieronymus Bosch, who was born there in this city, visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre , where you can find all his works (in reproduction) at one place.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Den Bosch

Utrecht is absolutely charming with its canals and the cafes at the water level . When in Utrecht, visit the beautiful Dom (the cathedral of Utrecht). You can climb to the top of the cathedral for some amazing views or get underneath it for some Roman ruins. If you want to get off-the-beaten path, visit the quirky Museum Speelklok , where you can admire their unique collection of self-playing instruments.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Utrecht

Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and is often called the Pearl of the South. The locals just love a day trip to Maastricht combined with some first class shopping. When in Maastricht, visit the beautiful Vrijthof Square with the St. Servatius Basilica ( Sint-Servaasbasiliek ) and the St. John’s Church ( Sint-Janskerk ). A fan of classic music? Then a concert of Andre Rieu on the Vrijthof Square in the summer is a must. This is a once-in-a-life-time experience and I can vouch for it from first hand.

Read more: How to spend the perfect day in Maastricht . If you are visiting in the winter you should not miss the famous Christmas Market of Maastricht .

Rotterdam is like no other city in the Netherlands – it’s modern, it’s hipster and it’s full of life. It’s one of the few places in the Netherlands where the skyline is dominated by high-rises . When in Rotterdam, take a boat tour in the harbour. Europort used to be the biggest one in the world, but it lost its first place some years ago, now being only the biggest in Europe. If you love great views, climb to the top of the Euromast and if you need a bit of an adrenaline rush, you can go down with a zip-wire. Oh, and fan of quirky architecture? Take a look at the famous Cube Houses or the Markthal.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Rotterdam

5 Most beautiful villages and small towns in the Netherlands

They call it the little white town and for a reason. All the houses are white in this little place, something quite unusual for the Netherlands. Thorn has unique historical heritage. It started as a cloister and turned into a prosperous Abbey-State , a dwarf state in the 15th-18th centuries, ruled by women. The town is a popular tourist destination among the Dutch. The best Dutch pancakes restaurant has there a branch, so I can’t help it but recommend paying a visit to the Pannekoekenbakker for the most delicious Dutch pancakes.

Read more: What to see and in Thorn and why are the houses after all white in Thorn

When you travel to the Netherlands, you should visit at least one of its walled towns, which are part of the so-called Southern Defense Line ( De Zuiderwaterlinie ). Heusden is one of them – a little town in the shape of a star, surrounded by water. It looks as if time has stopped in Heusden, but instead of being just and open-air museum, the little place is actually a regular small town with a great dose of charm and lots of cuteness. When in Heusden, take a walk alongside the bulwarks , thus you can make a complete circle around the town. For some great Dutch pancakes, stop at the Pannekoekenbakker .

Read more: Best things to do in Heusden, recommended by a local

Valkenburg is a lovely small town in South Limburg. It’s famous for the chalk quarries ( mergelgrotten ) and the Castle Ruins ( Kasteelruinen ) perched on a hill above the town. Numerous cafes and restaurants line up the streets of this small place. It’s a very popular holiday destination among the Dutch and it’s always thriving with life. Well, after all, it’s one of the two places in the Netherlands where there are caves. Moreover the landscape around Valkenburg is quite pretty with the rolling hills and the cattle grazing on the meadows, and the occasional castle here and there.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Valkenburg, recommended by a local

Once an important harbour, this cute little place turned into an inland town after the sea was drained in the 17th century to make place for more land. The regained land from the sea is known as polder , and the area around De Rijp – De Beemster Polder , is included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the last years most of the houses have been beautifully restored and the little town is full of charm. You can find there some of the oldest wooden houses in the Province of North Holland.

They call it the Venice of the North or the Dutch Venice and indeed Giethoorn completely deserves its nickname. Imagine an idyllic small village with no streets but canals instead. Beautiful houses, mostly farms, with thatched roofs, lots of green and flowers and the willows hanging above the crooked bridges. Unfortunately the last years Giethoorn has been discovered by the tourists and is suffering from overtourism. Nonetheless, the place is simply gorgeous and too cute not to see it.

5 Most beautiful national parks in the Netherlands

If you are in a search of a quiet place with gorgeous sunsets, green waters and vast sand beaches – you’ll find it all on this small West Frisian island . Not to forget the little quaint villages, the pastoral landscapes and the great local food. Oh, and a part of the island is a protected area as one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. When travelling to Texel, just leave your car on the mainland, as you won’t need it on the island. However taking your bike with you is a great idea.

Read more: Best things to do on Texel island

De Biesbosch is probably the most unique national park in the Netherlands. The land that was reclaimed from the marshlands in the past centuries is now given back to nature. De Biesbosch is one of the biggest freshwater tidal wetlands in Europe – a network of interconnected rivers and creeks, a kind of an inland delta. The best way to discover this beautiful area is by boat.

Read more: De Biescbosch National Park – complete travel guide

This Dutch National Park looks totally out of place – moving sand dunes in de middle of the country. The Dunes of Loon and Drunen are actually the biggest sand-drifting area in Northern Europe. For a country with hardly any hilltops, leave alone mountains, the Dunes are great for hiking and even sleighing in the winter (if it happens to snow). In the late summer when the heath is in bloom, the dunes turn into a magical purple haze.

Read more: Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park – complete travel guide

De Meinweg is another one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. This park is characterized by terraced landscape with steep transitions between the plateaus. You can walk there through forests , marshlands and lakes . There’s also this lovely trail that goes along a boardwalk through a flooded forest. As the National Park is located at the border with Germany, you might just pop up there without noticing it.

De Alde Feanen National Park is the youngest National Park in the Netherlands. It was added in 2012 as the 20th National Park. It’s a bogland area located in Dutch Province of Friesland near the capital city Leeuwarden. The bog is home to more than 450 plant species and over 100 bird species . The most popular inhabitants of the Alde Feanen are the white storks . You can spot them everywhere. It’s a peaceful area where you can go for walking, biking or boating. It’s so quiet there that you will feel absolutely disconnected from the rest of the world.

Read more: De Alde Feanen National Park – complete travel guide

5 Most beautiful castles and palaces in the Netherlands

De Haar Castle ( Kasteel De Haar ) near Utrecht is perhaps the most famous and most visited Dutch castle. If it’s the most beautiful one, that’s pretty subjective, but it’s for sure quite imposing. The castle was restored in 1892 by the famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers in a Gothic Revival style. The original castle dates back to the end of the 14th century. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens. You can visit both the castle and the park.

The Hoensbroek Castle ( Kasteel Hoensbroek ) is a lovely castle in the southern province of Limburg. The first fortress on this place dates back to 1360. Through the years the castle has been expanded many times. It belonged to the van Hoensbroek family, the one that built it for nearly 6 centuries. In 1927 the castle was sold to a foundation which still manages it as of present. Today, the castle can be visited and it gives an idea of how life was in 17th and 18th centuries. The furnishings are back from the period. You can do a self-guided tour of the castle and in each room there are interactive stories told in various ways.

Slot Loevestein was built in the 14th century by the knight Dirc Loef but soon after it was taken by the Count of Holland . In the 17th century the castle was turned into a state prison. One of the greatest legal scholars, the father of the modern international law – Hugo Grotius ( Hugo de Groot in Dutch), was imprisoned there but he succeeded to escape. How did he manage to escape? I won’t tell you. Visit the castle to find out.

Ammersoyen Castle ( Kasteel Ammerzoyen ) is a beautiful castle surrounded by water in the province of Gelderland. The construction of the defensive castle near the Meuse River started in the 12th century and it was finished in the 13th century. The Ammersoyen Castle was completely restored to its medieval glory in the 1970s and is open for visitors.

There aren’t many palaces in the Netherlands, but from the few that are still there, Het Loo Palace ( Paleis Het Loo ) is undoubtedly the most beautiful one. And not only the palace is worth the visit. The meticulously manicured and kept Baroque gardens contrast with the natural and a bit wild beauty of the English park . Let’s say Het Loo Palace is the Dutch Versailles , but not because it looks like the palace near Paris, it’s because of its significance and role through the centuries as the palace of the House of Orange-Nassau (the Dutch Royal House).

Read more: The 15 most beautiful castles in the Netherlands

5 Most beautiful parks and gardens in the Netherlands

Tulips! Lots of tulips! Everywhere! You can’t find a place more Dutchy than that. Unfortunately, being a spring garden, Keukenhof is open only in the period March-May. It’s a perfectly manicured garden, where each year they plant more than 7 million spring flower bulbs . Hyacinths, tulips, crocuses, and daffodils in most amazing shapes and colors create intricate patterns and stun the visitors.

Read more: Everything you need to know about visiting Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands

The Gardens of Appeltern ( De Appeltern Tuinen ) started as a company project and evolved into the biggest and most beautiful garden park in the Netherlands. The park was created in 1980s as a series of show-model gardens and today it features more than 200 different inspiration gardens on 23 ha.

If you are visiting the Netherlands and the Keukenhof gardens are closed your best bet will be the Castle Gardens of Arcen ( Kasteeltuinen Arcen ). A meticulously manicured park with gardens and a lovely castle – the Castle Gardens of Arcen won’t disappoint you. The best time to visit the park is June-July when all flowers are in bloom. Beside the gardens, you can also visit the castle.

The Castle Garden of Oud-Valkenburg ( Kasteeltuin Oud-Valkenburg ) is a lovely small scale garden in South Limburg. Once it used to be the kitchen garden of the Schaloen Castle . Today, it features a herbal garden and a heritage garden , which shows local traditional flora. There’s also a watermill at the garden. You can combine a visit to the garden with a walk to the castle. The Schaloen Castle is not open for visitors, but there is a nice cafe outside where you can enjoy the beautiful view with the castle and its gardens.

The Botanical Garden in Kerkrade ( Botanische Tuin Kerkrade ) has a very interesting history. It opened in 1937 as a recreational garden for the mine workers of the State Mines ( Staatsmijnen ). Mining was booming in South Limburg and lots of facilities were created for the equally booming population in the region. The centerpiece of the Botanical Garden is the Open-air Cathedral – the trees are arched and arranged in such a way that they remind of the framework of a cathedral. There are 195 varieties of plants and trees found today in the Botanical Garden.

Read more: What to do and see in Kerkrade

Although flat as a pancake, the Netherlands can offer some amazing places, from the capital city of Amsterdam with its UNESCO-listed canals and stepped-gable houses, to the quaint little village of Giethoorn with no streets. For an explosion of colors yous should visit the famous Keukenhof tulip gardens and if you want to escape the world, you can do so in one of the National Parks. Chasing castles? No problem. You will find an abundance of them!

Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group , where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.

About Daniela

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

No visit to Holland is complete without a visit to the capital city, Amsterdam; however, there are so many more thrilling sites to see in the Netherlands. From the classic windmills and magnificent fields of flowers to historic town centers laden with museums and sights, Holland has much to offer visitors. These places to visit in the Netherlands are not to be missed, and most are easily accessible.

10. Gouda [SEE MAP]

Gouda is a typical Dutch city with lots of old buildings and pretty canals, and is a popular destination for a day trip, thanks to its great rail- and highway connections. The city is famous for its cheese, its stroopwafels (syrup waffles), candles and its clay pipes.

Attractions in Gouda include the beautiful 15th century town hall and the amazing glass windows in St. Janskerk. The compact city center is entirely ringed by canals and is a mere five minutes’ walk from the station.

9. Rotterdam [SEE MAP]

Once a mere 13th century fishing village, Rotterdam is the Netherlands most modern city today. Very bike friendly like Amsterdam, Rotterdam boasts several districts for visitors to explore. The popular Delfshaven district is where the pilgrims launched sail from in 1620, and the summertime festivals and carnivals there attract visitors from nearby European countries every year.

Erasmus Bridge is highly unique and imposing, but highly regarded as a work of art, as it soars over Europe’s largest harbor. By far, the most popular visitor stop is at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, where artworks on display span from the Middle Ages to modern times, including masterpieces by Dali, Van Gogh, Bosch, and Rembrandt.

8. Groningen [SEE MAP]

This culturally diverse university city is small but boasts two colleges, making it the main place to visit in the northern part of the Netherlands, especially concerning the arts, business, and education.

Museum lovers never tire in Groningen, as the Groninger Museum is one of the most innovative and modern in all of Holland, and there is additionally a graphical museum, comics museum, maritime museum, and a university museum. Music and theater abound in Groningen, and many street cafes feature live entertainment.

Because of its high student population, nightlife hotspots are a huge attraction, with The Grote Markt, the Peperstraat, and the Vismarkt being the most popular.

7. Haarlem [SEE MAP]

The center of the tulip bulb-growing district, Haarlem is unofficially dubbed Bloemenstad, which means ‘flower city’ and is naturally the home of the Annual Bloemencorso Parade. This quiet bedroom community lies along the shoreline of the Spaarne River and boasts numerous intact medieval structures around town.

Visitors enjoy shopping and perusing the stunning architecture and museums along the Grote Markt city center. Popular museums in Haarlem include the oldest museum in the country, the Teylers Museum, which specializes in natural history, art, and science exhibits. Art aficionados find themselves drawn to the Franz Hals Museum where many Dutch masters’ works rest.

6. Utrecht [SEE MAP]

The rich Middle Age history of Utrecht is very apparent in the city’s architecture, with its most unique feature being the inner canal wharf system that was created to stave off parts of the Rhine River from invading the city center. Utrecht’s claim to fame may be the fact that it boasts the largest college in the Netherlands, the University of Utrecht.

Another notable visitor attraction in Utrecht includes the awe-striking Gothic Cathedral of Saint Martin, a 200-year structural feat that began in 1254. Architecture and museum enthusiasts should not miss the Dom Tower, the Rietveld Schroder House, and the Museum Speelklok, which boasts a vast collection of striking clocks, music boxes, and self-playing musical instruments.

5. Maastricht [SEE MAP]

Best known for its dynamic city square, the Vrijthof, Maastricht in southern Holland is home to the impressive Saint Servatius Church, the Saint Jan’s Cathedral, and the old fortifications, or Vestigingswerkens, are huge draws for visitors here.

Many annual festivals take place at the Vrijthof, with local favorites arriving in autumn and winter, and this bustling town square also boasts amazing cafes, hip bars, and interesting galleries and shops. Other popular attractions in Maastricht include the St. Pietersberg Caves and the Helpoort, the oldest surviving town gate of its kind in the Netherlands.

4. The Hague [SEE MAP]

Best known for the contemporary art exhibits at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag and the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis, The Hague is arguably one of the most extraordinary places to visit in the Netherlands. Known as the Royal City by the Sea due to its Dutch Royalty citizens, visitors often enjoy spending time along the North Sea in the warmer months at the sea town of Scheveningen.

Several notable monuments and historic districts are easily traversable in The Hague, and travelers can peruse the luxury department stores, cozy shops, and international art galleries with ease. The Binnenhof, the seat of the government of the Netherlands is also located in The Hague even though Amsterdam is the capital. Other attractions in The Hague include the miniature city, Madurodam and a 360 degree panoramic view of the Scheveningen Sea in the 19th century at Panorama Mesdag.

3. Delft [SEE MAP]

From the Renaissance style City Hall building on the Markt Square to the city’s traditional Holland canals, architecture, and vibe, Delft is a progressive town that has worked diligently to restore its antiquated appearance. This unspoiled town is an ideal day trip destination or vacation destination if the busy streets of Amsterdam are undesirable for a long stay.

Popular sites include The Prinsenhof, where the bullet holes still remain from the death of William of Orange. This museum tells the tale of the Eighty Years’ War and also features many intriguing artworks. Those looking for a Johannes Vermeer souvenir or print cannot miss stopping by Vermeer Centrum in Delft.

2. Leiden [SEE MAP]

The picturesque city of Leiden is a great place to visit for its scenic, tree-lined canals that are marked with old windmills, wooden bridges and lush parks. A boat ride down one of these lovely canals makes for an unforgettable experience. Attractions in Leiden include the numerous museums that range from science and natural history to museums dedicated to windmills and Egyptian antiquities.

The Hortus Botanicus offers sprawling botanical gardens and the world’s oldest academical observatory. Visitors can also admire the beautiful architecture of the 16th century Church of St. Peter and check out its association with several historic people, including the American pilgrims.

1. Amsterdam [SEE MAP]

One of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Amsterdam is widely known for its party atmosphere, cannabis practice and the red light district. However, this capital city of the Netherlands offers so much more for all travelers such as its beautiful canal ring, historical buildings, world-class museums and famous attractions like the Anne Frank House, Vondelpark and Bloemenmarkt, the floating flower market.

Located in the province of North Holland, Amsterdam is a sprawling city with many districts, but getting around is easy with public buses, trams, metro lines and bicycles. At the heart of Amsterdam is the old city center.

See also: Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Surrounded by an elaborate canal system that features dozens of islands and hundreds of bridges, the center is where most tourists spend their time enjoying canal cruises, sightseeing, visiting impressive art museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and attending performances at distinguished concert halls like the Concertgebouw.

The city has several street markets, of which Albert Cuyp is the most popular. The Prinsengracht area is one of the best places for shopping, gallery viewing, pub crawling, and checking out the unique coffee shops in Amsterdam. For dining, tourists will find a large diversity of restaurants offering a smorgasbord of cuisines. Dutch cheese, Ossenworst sausage and bitterballen (fried meatball) are tasty local specialties to try.

Map of the Netherlands

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10 Most Charming Small Towns in Holland

27 Top Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

12 Most Beautiful Regions in the Netherlands

15 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands

12 Best Things to do in Maastricht, the Netherlands

12 Best Things to do in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

10 Best Places to Visit in Friesland, Netherlands

11 Best Things to do in Utrecht, the Netherlands

10 Most Popular Attractions in The Hague

10 Best Places to Visit in Limburg, Netherlands

Reader interactions.

March 14, 2018 at 2:04 am

Don’t forget Giethoorn and nearby are the 53 megaliths “hunebedden” built by humans 3000 bc.

May 22, 2017 at 8:16 am

Beautiful pictures! Would love to visit those places with family 🙂 🙂

May 10, 2017 at 8:59 pm

To make it even more correct, Amsterdam is the constitutional capital. The Royal Palace in Amsterdam was built as the city hall during the 17th century and got it’s today’s role as the official Royal Palace in The Netherlands beginning of the 19th century, when The Netherlands became a kingdom in stead of a republic. This to serve as the official place in an otherwise really empty capital indeed. The Hague was originally the place where the count of Holland resided. Before the rebellion against the Spaniards the center of power was most of the time Brussels, today Belgium. But Belgium was seperated from the north once more in 1830.

December 18, 2016 at 1:13 pm

@Tom Perrett. You are incorrect. Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. The Hague or Den Haag is the seat of Government and where the Royal family reside.

July 24, 2016 at 11:47 pm

Just so you know the hague is the capital of the netherlands not amsterdam.

July 27, 2016 at 1:02 pm

no @Tom, Amsterdam is the capital.

May 24, 2016 at 6:01 pm

Just FYI, Holland is a Provence, not the name of the country. So, for example, Amsterdam is in the Provence of Holland, Maastricht is in Limburg, NOT Holland. The country is the Netherlands. This fact is frustrating to many Dutch who constantly are referred to as from Holland.

May 25, 2016 at 12:11 am

@Anneke, actually Amsterdam is in the province of North Holland, but I get your point.

November 1, 2015 at 2:15 am

Other – Amersfoort, the best by far for friendliness, helpful and fair prices

March 5, 2015 at 5:43 pm

Cool list and Delft is certainly worthy of its spot at 3, and arguably should be 2. While the list is subjective, Leiden is too high at 2. We lived in Amsterdam for 3 and 1/2 years and feel Den Bosch and Alkmaar have a little more to offer visitors then Leiden. A beachside town like Zandvoort Van Zee would be interesting to mix things up. The summer beach scene in the Netherlands is really underrated.

These types of lists are fun because it opens dialogue for debate.

March 10, 2015 at 3:22 am

I agree about the beach scene Alex, though I would go for a beach in Zeeland or Scheveningen for an urban beach experience.

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Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

50+ Most Beautiful Small Dutch Towns To Visit In The Netherlands

One of my favourite things to do in my country is to visit beautiful towns in The Netherlands. They are pretty, small and calm. These places are the perfect tips that you need to have an incredible vacation in The Netherlands. But, I do have to warn you, there’s a big chance that you need to extend your trip. And trust me when I say that you don’t mind doing that.

There are also a few specific  places you have to visit in The Netherlands in spring . But that’s not all that this country offers, because I can highly recommend you these  places to visit in The Netherlands in summer . And also these fantastic  places to visit in The Netherlands in autumn .

The towns you will find in this article are truly great to visit at any time of the year. Still, if you are specifically looking for places to visit in The Netherlands in winter, these  top Christmas destinations in The Netherlands  will also be great.

Suppose you want to look beyond a small canal town in The Netherlands and visit beautiful villages in The Netherlands (including the Holland region). In that case, I recommend you also to read this article about charming villages in The Netherlands.

You can visit all of these towns with the use of public transportation in The Netherlands. Almost all of us Dutch people use an app (and website) called 9292. This also exists in English. You can find this app and more  travel apps for The Netherlands  in this article.

Most beautiful towns to visit in The Netherlands

1. brouwershaven.

Province:  Zeeland

Nearest big city:  Zierikzee

Where to stay:  Herberg Eetcafé ‘t Swarte Schaep

One of the cosiest small Dutch towns in the Zeeland province has to be Brouwershaven. After the city of Zierikzee, Brouwershaven houses the most monuments on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland. This town is great to visit at any time of year, but especially during the summer months. The reason for that? During summer, you can sail on a historic sailship from Brouwershaven, and every Monday, there is a special market for visitors. One of the best things to do in Brouwershaven is to wander around the old harbour area.

Province:  Gelderland

Nearest big city:  Tiel

Where to stay:  De Prins

Buren is one of the amazing towns that you can find in the province of Gelderland. It is mainly known for having a strong band with the Dutch Royal Family, so Buren is often named ‘Oranjestad’ or orange city, due to the Van Oranje-Nassau family. The town of Buren is a historic, small Dutch town that is home to some of the most beautiful townscapes in The Netherlands and is filled with monumental buildings, cool shops and cute streets. It’s one of the beautiful towns in The Netherlands that you will love visiting.

Find a full article on what to do in Buren here.

3. Oudenbosch

Province:  Noord- Brabant

Nearest big city: Roosendaal

Where to stay:  Sjiek Basiliek

Oudenbosch is home to one of the most impressive buildings in The Netherlands: two replicas of Roman churches, and you can visit the basilica in Oudenbosch. Travelling to this basilica in Noord- Brabant is an absolute must-do in this Dutch province. Oudenbosch is home to roughly 12.000 people. Besides visiting this church in Oudenbosch, there are many more things you can do here. The Netherlands is filled with destinations to see, and Oudenbosch should be on your travel list.

Find a full article on what to do in Oudenbosch here.

Province:  Noord- Holland

Nearest big city:  Amsterdam

Where to stay:  Het Hart van Weesp

Weesp is one of those destinations in The Netherlands found close to Amsterdam but is still significantly untouched. Weesp is located at the edge of a big river, is home to canals and Dutch canal houses and amazing things to do and see. This Dutch town doesn’t get that many visitors as it deserves, but that is also one of the best things about Weesp. One of the best activities I recommend you to do in Weesp is to visit  Museum Weesp.  This museum is found in the town hall of Weesp and is the perfect location to learn about the history of the city and its people. One of the other things you must do in  Weesp is rent a boat  to explore this part of Noord (North)- Holland by boat. Add the canals, amazing buildings, and you will get one of the places to visit in The Netherlands that you cannot miss out on.

Province: Gelderland

Nearest big city: Zwolle

Where to stay: Bed and Breakfast Hattem

One of the best small towns to visit in the Gelderland region is Hattem. Hattem is small, idyllic and authentic. It’s one of those towns that make you immediately feel at home and is great to explore for a few hours. Admire the view you get on one of The Netherlands largest rivers while you enjoy the calming atmosphere of Hattem. There are quite a few things to do and see in Hattem, such as visiting museums and so much more. It’s definitely one of the cute towns in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Hattem here.

Where to stay: Accommodatie in Muiden

Muiden is one of the towns in The Netherlands that is home to one of the  most popular Dutch castles: Muiderslot . And while visiting the Muiden castle is an absolute highlight for many visitors, Muiden and its surroundings have a lot more to offer than just the castle. Whether you’re interested in learning more about this specific castle in The Netherlands or about one of the Unesco World Heritage sites, Muiden is a fantastic place to visit and one of the small towns in The Netherlands that you will love.

Find a full article on what to do in Muiden here.

7. Bunschoten- Spakenburg

Province:  Utrecht

Nearest big city:  Amersfoort

Where to stay:  B&B de Nieuwe Haven

Fishing villages are found throughout The Netherlands, and Bunschoten-Spakenburg is one of them. The town of Spakenburg used to be a fishing village, and Bunschoten, a town where farmers lived, due to the increase of population, is currently one town. One of the things you have to do in Bunschoten- Spakenburg is to visit the Spakenburgse Dagen. This is a yearly event that takes places around the last two Wednesdays in July and the first two Wednesdays in August. During this event, you can discover the real history of the Dutch fishing town of Spakenburg, which includes a boat trip on an old fishing boat, traditional clothing and plenty of more. Mainly the area around the harbour of Spakenburg side of the town is one of the most charming small towns in The Netherlands.

Province:  Flevoland

Nearest big city:  Emmeloord

Where to stay:  Bed & Breakfast De Roos

Urk is one of the former Dutch islands and is one of the best small towns in The Netherlands to visit; and is located in the Flevoland province. When you visit Urk, you can easily see that it was an island, especially since the highest point here is 8,5 metres. The province of Flevoland is approximately 5 metres below sea level. A ferry used to be the only connection to the mainland for the Urkers, and this tradition is kept alive during the summer months. When you’re on the ferry, you can also sign up for a tour through the town of Urk, but you can also explore the town and everything it has to offer on your own. You can buy  tickets for the ferry Enkhuizen- Urk online or at the boat .

Nearest big city:  Zwolle

Where to stay:  Boutique Hotel Elburg

One of the most beautiful Hanseatic towns in The Netherlands has to be Elburg. This fortified Dutch town is found in the province of Gelderland and is an absolute dream. Ramparts and a city wall surround it, and when you enter the town through one of the city gates, it feels like you’re going back in time. Elburg is home to cool museums, great restaurants and small shops, and so much more. It’s one of the small Dutch towns to visit, as it’s breathtaking.

Find a full article on what to do in Elburg here.

10. Zaltbommel

Nearest big city:   Den Bosch

Where to stay:   B&B In de Oude Smederij Zaltbommel

The middle of The Netherlands is often not explored by visitors, which is a real shame. One of the best places to visit in the centre of The Netherlands is the town of Zaltbommel. In Zaltbommel, you can discover monumental buildings and streets and even a beautiful Dutch city castle. And, you can even visit this castle as it houses a great museum. Stadskasteel Zaltbommel is found in this castle and home to different exhibitions about this small town in Gelderland. There’s also a cafe part of the museum, where there are often exhibitions of local artists: this exhibition is free to visit, the museum itself isn’t. If you’re travelling to The Netherlands, then I can highly recommend you not to skip Zaltbommel.

11. IJzendijke

Nearest big city:  Terneuzen

Where to stay:  De Weegbrug

You can find the town of IJzendijke in the south of The Netherlands in the Zeeland province. Its small-town centre is perfect for a bit of exploring and one of the best things to do in IJzendijke is to visit a museum. Museum Het Bolwerk is a museum where you will explore how the inhabitants of the border region used to defend themselves against hostile enemies. It’s the perfect place to learn how this area was so essential for the current country of The Netherlands. When you’re visiting The Netherlands, I can highly recommend you to explore this part of the country.

12. Hasselt

Province:  Overijssel

Where to stay:  Canal Apartment

One of the best destinations to visit in the Overijssel province is the small town of Hasselt, which is one of the prettiest towns in The Netherlands. This town is one of the oldest pilgrimage places in The Netherlands and is part of the Santiago de Compostella. One of the things you need to do in Hasselt, The Netherlands, is visiting the old lime kilns in the town. These lime kilns were essential for Hasselt’s wealth over time, and lime was an important industry in Hasselt for centuries. You can visit the lime kilns (kalkovens in Hasselt) and discover the production process and more: the museum is opened from Monday to Friday from 13:00- 16:00.

13. Medemblik

Nearest big city:  Hoorn

Where to stay:  B&B Westerhaven Medemblik

The Holland region is filled with great towns to visit, and Medemblik is most certainly one of them. This town in Noord (North)- Holland is home to one of  The Netherlands most beautiful Dutch castles , found in the region with the most tulip fields in the country and is filled with monumental buildings. Some of the things you need to do in Medemblik are to wander along the canals and the canal houses, enjoy a fun museum or even a  historic train ride along with tulip fields . Plus, Medemblik is a perfect town to visit if you’re looking for a cute town that is easily reachable and that is located nearby cities such as Hoorn. As soon as you wander around the canal area, you will understand why I think Medemblik is one of the beautiful towns in The Netherlands you must see.

Where to stay:  Hotel Hulst

Hulst is one of the fortified towns you can visit in the Zeeland province and a great town to visit. Hulst is the sixth largest town in Zeeland after Middelburg, Vlissingen, Goes, Terneuzen and Zierikzee. One of the things I recommend you to do in Hulst is to walk on the ramparts of Hulst. These fortifications surround the entire town of Hulst and are the perfect place to start your visit of Hulst as it gives you a great idea of the vibe and beauty of the town. It’s most definitely one of the beautiful towns in the South of The Netherlands to visit.

Province:  Limburg

Nearest big city:  Maastricht

Where to stay:  Gasterij de Poort

Gulpen is one of the best day trips from Maastricht for several reasons. Not only can you find Gulpen in the middle of the Tuscany of The Netherlands, or the hilly region in Zuid (South)- Limburg, but it is also the home of the Gulpener beer brewery. So, if you’re done exploring the hills and exploring things to do in Gulpen and want to catch a break, then the brewery is great. Gulpen is a perfect town to visit in Limburg if you’re into charming and bustling small towns. Wander through the cosy streets or sit down in a beer garden and enjoy. And that makes it one of the best towns in The Netherlands to visit.

Nearest big city:  Bergen op Zoom

Where to stay:  Hotel Tholen

Tholen is a town named the way it is because toll (tol in Dutch) was collected here. The town of Tholen is one of the towns in The Netherlands filled with historical buildings, incredible streets and a harbour. Not only is the town beautiful and worth visiting, so are the surroundings of Tholen. There are nature reserves in the surroundings of Tholen to explore and nearby cities to discover. One of the things you need to do in Tholen is walk on the ramparts surrounding the town and admire the town centre, which leads you to streets such as Markt and Hoogstraat.

Province:  Friesland

Nearest big city:  Sneek

Where to stay:  B&B de Garaazje

Friesland is officially home to eleven cities, which obtained city rights during the Middle Ages. Workum happens to be one of those eleven, but since it’s relatively small, it deserves to be on this part of my blog about The Netherlands. The town is home to medieval buildings, one of the largest churches in The Netherlands and is found in the perfect area to enjoy some of the countryside in the Friesland province. Visiting Workum is great if you want to enjoy Dutch villages and towns.

Find a full article on what to do in Workum here.

Nearest big city:  Bolsward

Where to stay:  De Waag

Makkum is one of the small Frisian towns I highly recommend you to visit. Not only is the town famous for its special Makkumer pottery, but it’s also for the picturesque town centre. Whether you want to admire the century-old buildings or want to go on a  canal tour in Makkum  and its surroundings; There’s something amazing to do in Makkum for everyone. I highly recommend you visit the town to see it for yourself. Makkum is definitely one of the beautiful towns in the North of The Netherlands that you cannot miss.

19. Heusden

Nearest big city:  Den Bosch

Where to stay:  In den Verdwaalde Koogel

Heusden is another cute, fortified Dutch town, one of the must-visit destinations in the Noord (North)- Brabant province. Besides walking on the ramparts around Heusden to get a good insight and view of the fortifications and the river, one of the other things you need to do in Heusden is visit the Gouverneurshuis. Not only can you sit down at their courtyard in the middle of fruit trees and eat a piece of homemade Dutch apple pie, but this building also houses a small museum. Don’t forget to buy their homemade jams, with ingredients from this garden, either as a great souvenir. The terrace in this garden is generally opened on Saturday and Sunday (10:00- 17:00), the museum on Saturday and Sunday (11:00-17:00).

20. Gorinchem

Province:  Zuid- Holland

Nearest big city:  Utrecht

Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Goud En Zilver

One of the biggest fortified towns in The Netherlands is Gorinchem. It’s found at the shore of the Waal river and a fantastic place to visit. One of the activities you must do in Gorinchem is to visit  the  Hendrick Hamel Museum.  This museum is found in the Hamelhuis and is the best place to learn about Hendrick Hamel and his adventures in Korea in the 17th century. He was the first person to give the Western world an inside view of Korea during that time.

I can also highly recommend you to visit Windmill ‘Molen De Hoop’ in Gorinchem. You can visit it every Saturday (10:00- 17:00), Sunday (10:00- 16:00) and when the mill is operating. When visiting this Dutch windmill in the Zuid (South)- Holland region, you will have the most scenic view of the Waal river, Gorinchem and its surroundings, all while learning cool facts about Gorinchem and its windmill. All of that makes Gorinchem one of the towns to visit in the Holland region.

Nearest big city:  Roermond

Where to stay:  Hotel Crasborn Thorn

This small town in the Limburg region is also nicknamed the ‘white town’ of The Netherlands. It’s the only place in the country where the entire town centre is filled with white buildings, and it’s definitely magical, also because Thorn was one of the only places where noblewomen were in power for at least 800 years. One of the things you need to do in Thorn is visiting Museum Thorn to learn more about these women, the history of Thorn and its inhabitants, and so much more. Thorn is one of the best towns to visit in The Netherlands.

Nearest big city:  Joure

Where to stay:  Hotel Stedswal

The small town of Sloten is actually a city but is relatively small, so it deserves to be on this part of my The Netherlands travel blog. Sloten is found in the beautiful Friesland province and is a historic town filled with incredible buildings, small streets and the prettiest views. For such a small town, Sloten has quite a few things to offer: From admiring a windmill to visiting a museum to buying the best local goods in one of the small shops. The Netherlands is filled with points of interest, and Sloten is most certainly one of them.

Find a full article on what to do in Sloten here.

23. Hellevoetsluis

Nearest big city:  Spijkenisse

Where to stay:  CasaLuca

What I love about The Netherlands is that it’s filled with coastal towns. The maritime city of Hellevoetsluis is one of the towns with some of the most fascinating history. It’s located on the shore of the Haringvliet, which then flows into the North Sea. As Hellevoetsluis is a maritime town in the Zuid (South)- Holland province, one of the things you need to do is to visit the oldest dry dock in Europe. Droogdok Jan Blanken and its visitors centre are generally opened from the 1st of November until the 31st of October from Monday to Friday (10:00- 17:00). Then from the 1st of April, it is also opened on Saturday and Sunday (13:30- 16:30) .  Close to Hellevoetsluis, you can also explore nature reserve Quackhors.

One of the other activities I recommend you do in Hellevoetsluis is visit Stadsmuseum Hellevoetsluis to explore how people live and work in this Dutch town and discover the transformation of this town. It’s generally opened from the end of April until the 1st of November on Wednesday and Thursday (10:00- 16:00) and Friday and Sunday (13:00- 16:00).

Where to stay:  Hotel Lemmer

The small town of Lemmer is the location of one of  The Netherlands Unesco World Heritage sites  where you can learn everything about how important pumping systems are to keep our feet dry in The Netherlands, especially in the Friesland area. Besides that, Lemmer is found in an area with a lot of water, so you can enjoy a beach, rent a boat, and so many other things. It’s very easy to make a trip to Lemmer enjoyable. Lemmer is one of the places to see in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Lemmer here.

25. Genemuiden

Where to stay:  Just outside Genemuiden, you can find Boerendiekhuus

The town of Genemuiden is found in the Overijssel province and is located in one of the most beautiful regions of the country. It is found nearby other small towns such as Zwartsluis and National Park De Weerribben- Wieden, so after you’re done with your visit to Genemuiden, then you can continue your exploration of the area. One of the things I recommend you to do in Genemuiden is to simply walk to streets such as Westerkaai, Kerkplein and Langestraat. It’s one of the best places to visit in The Netherlands.

26. Oudewater

Province: Utrecht

Nearest big city:  Woerden

Where to stay:  Broeck Oudewater

The Netherlands is filled with highlights, and what you absolutely need to see in The Netherlands is this following town. Oudewater is a stunning Dutch town associated with witches for a very good reason: Oudewater is home to a witch scale. This scale was used to weigh whether people were witches, but luckily no one was prosecuted or accused in Oudewater. And if you don’t want to visit a museum with the original witch scale, then there are plenty of more things to do in Oudewater and its surroundings. You can enjoy a beautiful canal tour or buy some of the freshest local produce; there’s truly something for everyone.

Find a full article on what to do in Oudewater here.

27. Woerden

Where to stay: Van Rossum Stadshotel Woerden

If you say cheese, I say Woerden. You might associate Dutch cheese with Gouda, but Woerden deserves to be more known in this aspect and for its other things you can do here too. Woerden the only city in The Netherlands where you can find the final real  cheese market , and it is located in the cheese valley in The Netherlands. If you want to get to know more about Dutch cheeses and how it’s made, which I recommend you to do, then you have to visit the  Woerden cheese experience . When you combine cheese, historic buildings and calm countryside you get Woerden, one of the beautiful towns you can find in The Netherlands.

28. Zwartsluis

Where to stay:  Hotel Zwartewater

Zwartsluis is another town found in Overijssel, nearby National Park Weerribben- Wieden, and many other beautiful places to visit. The small town of Zwartsluis is home to Museum Schoonwelle Natuur en Ambacht where you can learn more about the diversity of nature in this part of The Netherlands. Besides that, one of the things you need to do in Zwartsluis is walking around streets such as Handelskade and Kerkstraat. This town is small but is home to one of The Netherlands main attractions: beautiful, monumental buildings.

29. Brielle

Where to stay:  Poorter Boutique Hotel Brielle

Brielle is one of my most favourite towns in the Zuid (South)- Holland province, and for a very good reason. Brielle is surrounded by ramparts, is home to great events and is an absolute dream to explore. From exploring the ramparts for a different perspective of the town to visiting an interesting museum to climbing the church tower for an even better view on the island of Voorne- Putten, Brielle has it all. And, it’s also one of the  best small towns to visit near Rotterdam.

Find a full article on what to do in Brielle here.

30. Oirschot

Nearest big city:  Eindhoven

Where to stay:  B&B Het Pronkbed

There are certain towns that you just can’t get out of your head, and Oirschot is one of them. This historic town is a perfect day trip from Eindhoven and found in the Noord (North)- Brabant province. It’s filled with small shops, cosy cafes and endless monuments. One of the best things to do in Oirschot is to  climb the tower of the main church (torenbeklimming in Dutch)  for a spectacular view of Oirschot and its surroundings. If you ask me where you have to go in The Netherlands, Oirschot would be one of my first answers.

Province:  Drenthe

Where to stay:  B&B Pakhuis de Branderij

The town of Meppel is one of the towns to visit in the Drenthe province and a great place to start your vacation in Drenthe. There are beautiful buildings, a cosy town centre and quite some activities to do in Meppel. One of the best things to do in Meppel is bringing a visit to the Drukkerijmuseum or printing museum. This museum will show you everything about printing in the early days and is opened Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 13:00- 17:00. It is also opened on some Saturday, but only a few each year. Meppel is undoubtedly one of the beautiful towns to visit in the East of The Netherlands.

Where to stay:  Stadsherberg ‘Het Wapen van IJlst’

IJlst is officially one of the eleven cities in the Friesland province due to its history, but it’s found in this article as it is small. The town of IJlst is home to one of the most beautiful cityscapes in The Netherlands. Not only is IJlst a must-visit destination in the Friesland region, but also The Netherlands. There are very few historic Dutch towns in The Netherlands that are as dreamy as IJlst. In IJlst, you can find gorgeous looking gardens, a long canal, pretty buildings, and plenty more.

Find a full article on what to do in IJlst here.

33. Willemstad

Nearest big city:  Roosendaal

Where to stay:  Het Wapen Van Willemstad

The town of Willemstad is located at the border of the Zuid- Holland and Noord- Brabant provinces and is a truly magical Dutch town. If you’re looking for visiting the prettiest towns in The Netherlands, then Willemstad is a must-visit. This town is filled with beautiful streets, amazing views and picturesque buildings. And, it has some of the most beautiful surroundings, so you can easily explore the area around Willemstad. While The Netherlands has a few main tourist places, Willemstad is definitely not one of them as it’s very calm.

Find a full article on what to do in Willemstad here.

34. IJsselstein

Where to stay:  Hotel Epping

Almost connected to the city of Utrecht, you can find the historic town of IJsselstein. In IJsselstein, you will find remains of a castle, cobblestoned streets, a canal and a cosy town centre. It’s a charming place that deserves a visit. And, IJsselstein has quite a bit to offer for visitors. If you’re interested in trying out delicious Indonesian food, then you can bring a visit to the tiniest restaurant in The Netherlands at KingsDish IJsselstein every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Another thing I recommend you to do in IJsselstein is to visit Museum IJsselstein to discover the history and the present of IJsselstein. IJsselstein is also one of the  best towns to visit near Utrecht .

35. Leerdam

Where to stay:  Gasterij het Oude Posthuys

Another great town to visit in The Netherlands is Leerdam. This town is nicknamed ‘Glasstad’ or glass city for a good reason. The townhome to National Glass Museum (Nationaal Glas Museum), where you can discover everything about glass: From unique pieces of glass art to history. And glass has been important for the history of Leerdam. One of the other things you need to do in Leerdam is to walk through the town centre, such as Hoogstraat, and along the little river to see the remnants of the medieval city wall. The beautiful townscape makes it one of the places to go to in The Netherlands.

36. Wijk Bij Duurstede

Where to stay:  OTTO Boutique Hotel

The Netherlands is a country that is home to many castles, estates and castle ruins. And the town of Wijk bij Duurstede happens to be the place where you can find one of the best castle ruins in The Netherlands. Wijk bij Duurstede is also home to the worlds only windmill found on top of a city gate, and the town is filled with monuments and things to do. For instance, you can explore the history of Wijk bij Duurstede, and its forerunner Dorestadt. Or maybe you’re more interested in seeing the surroundings from the water. Whatever activities you prefer to do in Wijk bij Duurstede, there is something to enjoy for everyone here, and that makes it one of The Netherlands best day trips.

Find a full article on what to do in Wijk Bij Duurstede here.

37. Schoonhoven

Nearest big city:  Gouda

Where to stay:  Hotel Restaurant Belvédère

An amazing day trip from Gouda is the town of Schoonhoven, which is famous for anything related to silver. It has been nicknamed ‘Zilverstad’, or silver city, for over 700 years now. In Schoonhoven, you can find everything around silver; craftsmanship, industry and even art. That’s why one of the best things to do in Schoonhoven is to visit the  National Silver museum . Here, you will learn everything about silver and Schoonhoven’s history and find many beautiful historic silver pieces.

Schoonhoven itself is a very pretty historic Dutch town filled with monumental buildings, so I can also recommend you to wander around this town to feel the atmosphere and admire its beauty. It’s one of those places that if you were asking me the question: ‘ Where do I have to go to in the Holland region?’, then Schoonhoven would be one of the first towns I would recommend to you.

Province:  Groningen

Nearest big city:  Groningen

Where to stay:  De Slaapmuts

Winsum has been named one of the most beautiful towns in The Netherlands, and it’s not hard to figure out why. Winsum is not only one of the best day trips from the city of Groningen, but it’s also one of the top places to visit in the North of The Netherlands. The Netherlands and its countryside have so much to offer. The Groningen province is filled with things to do and see, and Winsum is the perfect town to explore and discover what this beautiful part of The Netherlands offers. Winsum is a picture-perfect Dutch town and home to endless monumental buildings, several windmills and a beautiful river that flows through the town centre.

Winsum is actually a twin town, as Winsum is officially located on one side of the river and Obergum on the other side. These two towns have been connected with a bridge since 1808; they have been a protected cityscape since 1982. One of the things you need to do in Winsum is to simply wander around the town along the beautiful streets and to definitely make a stop at the Jeneverbrug (from this bridge, you will have the beautiful view as shown below).

39. Vlaardingen

Nearest big city: Schiedam

Where to stay:  Pension Schravendijkplein

Next to the beautiful Dutch city of Schiedam, you can find Vlaardingen, which is one of the beautiful towns you can find in The Netherlands. This town is filled with beautiful canal houses and incredible sights. One of the best things to do in Vlaardingen is visiting Museum Vlaardingen, where you will discover the history of Vlaardingen: From 5000 years ago to the present time.

Another great thing to do in Vlaardingen is visit an interesting regional museum, called Museum Jan Anderson. On this old Dutch farm nearby Rotterdam, you can learn everything about handicrafts used in this area. The museum is opened every Saturday afternoon and every first Sunday of the month, from 14:00- 16:00.

Nearest big city:  Nijmegen

Where to stay:  Emmausklooster

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful town in the Noord (North)- Brabant province, then Grave is a great pick. The medieval town of Grave is filled with beautiful monuments, sights and things to do, and it is found in a beautiful region of the south of The Netherlands. Grave is a great town to visit if you’re interested in history, but also if you like art, as there are quite a few art galleries to be found in this town. And, it’s the perfect home base to explore some of the beautiful Noord (North)- Brabant countryside. The Netherlands is great to travel to, and when you visit, you cannot miss out on Grave.

Find a full article on what to do in Grave here.

41. Maarssen

Where to stay: De Eendracht Maarssen

You probably know that water is everywhere in The Netherlands, which means that you can find interesting places around The Netherlands. And when you’re thinking of visiting Maarssen, you will be guided to one of the most picturesque rivers in The Netherlands. Along the Vecht river, you can find towns such as Maarssen and endless castles and estates. The town of Maarssen is the perfect location to enjoy the atmosphere and cosiness of a small and historic Dutch town, and there are plenty of things to do in Maarsen and its surroundings to spend a few days here.

Find a full article on what to do in Maarssen here.

42. Geertruidenberg

Nearest big city/town: Oosterhout

Where to stay:  Hotel den Berg

Nearby the small  village of Drimmelen , you can find the pretty town of Geertruidenberg. Geertruidenberg is located at the edge of one of The Netherlands most beautiful nature reserves: De Biesbosch. Not only is Geertruidenberg a perfect place to start your visit to the Noord (North)- Brabant province due to its beautiful surroundings, but the town itself has quite a lot to offer as well: including one of the most scenic views in The Netherlands. Because of the beauty of Geertruidenberg and its surrounding areas, I find it one of the best places to stay in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Geertruidenberg here.

43. Bad Nieuweschans

Nearest big city:  Winschoten

Where to stay:  Motel Paradiso

Bad Nieuweschans is one of the places to visit in the Groningen province. The North of The Netherlands is filled with beautiful destinations to travel to as it is filled with small and picturesque villages and towns, and Bad Nieuweschans is one of them. This fortified Dutch town in Groningen is small but home to a beautiful, cosy town centre. One of the things to do in Bad Nieuweschans is to walk on the streets of Voorstraat and Achterstraat. Besides that, Bad Nieuweschans is home to museum Vestingmuseum, where you can explore the history of Bad Nieuweschans; it is generally opened from Tuesday until Friday (14:00-16:00). The Netherlands is filled with the best places to visit, and if you like exploring small towns, Bad Nieuweschans is one of them.

44. Maassluis

Nearest big city:  Schiedam

Where to stay:   Hotel Maassluis

One of the fairy tale towns that you can find in The Netherlands is Maassluis. The town of Maassluis is one of the beautiful towns you can see in the West of The Netherlands and is filled with charming streets, buildings and canals. One of the best things to do in Maassluis is to visit the  Nationaal Scheepvaart Museum Maassluis  to learn more about the maritime history of The Netherlands. All of that, and the fact that there are plenty of more things to see here, makes Maassluis a great place to visit in the Zuid (South)- Holland province.

45. Haastrecht

Where to stay:  Hotel Over de Brug

Haastrecht is a small town that is home to plenty of interesting activities. Not only is Haastrecht one of the best day trips from Gouda, but also Rotterdam. The town of Haastrecht is home to one of The Netherlands most interesting museums, called Museum Paulina Bisdom van Vliet. Paulina le Fèvre de Montigny–Bisdom van Vliet was the last person to live in the patrician house that this museum is found in, and the house looks the same as when she passed away. She stated in her will that her home needed to be changed into a museum and not destroyed or sold to private investors. When you enter this museum, it will take you back to the life of wealthy families in the 19th century. Besides visiting this museum, there are plenty of more things to see in Haastrecht. The town is one of the best examples if you’re looking for what there is to see in the Holland region.

46. Ravenstein

Nearest big city:  Oss

Where to stay:  Stadsherberg De Keurvorst

Ravenstein is one of the many beautiful Dutch towns that you can find nearby a big river. This town is located in the middle of one of The Netherlands most beautiful regions, as it is home to endless small villages and towns, nature reserves and scenic views. The town of Ravenstein is one of those towns that is very calm and doesn’t get many visitors, but one that deserves more of them. However, it’s also great as you will have the entire town to yourself. Combine the peaceful centre with the stunning surroundings, and you will have one of the best towns in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Ravenstein here.

Where to stay:  Van der Valk Hotel Vianen – Utrecht

Vianen is a beautiful small town that is officially a city due to its history. You can find Vianen right beside one of the most significant rivers in The Netherlands, and the town is surrounded by meadows, nature reserves and dykes. The town of Vianen is the perfect place to walk around for a while. Whether you are interested in visiting museums or exploring the town with a free walking tour, Vianen has it all, making it one of the beautiful towns in The Netherlands to explore.

Find a full article on what to do in Vianen here.

48. Groenlo

Nearest big city/town: Winterswijk

Where to stay:   Hotel,cafe,biljart POT

Groenlo is a town that is rarely on anyone’s bucket list for The Netherlands, like most of the beautiful towns that are mentioned in this article, which is why it’s a fantastic destination to visit in Gelderland. It’s home to amazing museums, the first brewery in the East of The Netherlands, and plenty more.

One of the things you have to do in Groenlo is to visit Stadsmuseum Groenlo to explore the history of the town of Groenlo and mainly what the influence of the 80-year-war had on this fortified Dutch town in the East of The Netherlands. This museum is located in the old city hall of Groenlo, and you can also visit the dungeons of Groenlo every Wednesday- and Saturday afternoon in this building. As soon as you walk into Groenlo, you will understand why I find it one of the beautiful towns in The Netherlands that you cannot miss during your vacation.

49. Purmerend

Where to stay:  Hostel 45

The town of Purmerend often gets forgotten when people visit the area, but we’re going to turn that around. The central historic part of Purmerend can be found around Koemarkt, Bierkade and Weerwal, but there is more to Purmerend than wandering through century-old streets. Think of visiting the  Purmerends Museum , for instance. Here you will learn everything you need about the town of Purmerend, its history and its current. Purmerend is one of the towns near Amsterdam that you can visit and it’s an easy day trip out of the busy city.

50. Bourtange

Where to stay:   Bij de Friesche Poort

Bourtange is one of the best destinations to visit in the Groningen province. This Dutch fort in the North East of The Netherlands is one of the best places to visit in this region. Not only is Bourtange one of the best kept fortified cities in Europe, but it’s also a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning more about Dutch history and who want to admire The Netherlands and the beautiful scenery that we have.

Find a full article on what to do in Bourtange here.

51. Oud- Beijerland

Nearest big city:  Rotterdam

Where to stay:  Tiny House Experience Oud Beijerland

The town of Oud- Beijerland is located near  Rotterdam , and it is found in the middle of the rural part of the Zuid (South)- Holland province. Not only is Oud-Beijerland surrounded by nature reserves and meadows, but the town itself is charming too. I can highly recommend you to visit Oud- Beijerland and walk to Havendam, Marktplein and Oostkade to admire the beautiful old buildings. And, if you want to explore the countryside near Rotterdam, then you can rent a bike in Oud- Beijerland at  George Tweewielers  (it’s best to reserve via e-mail in advance). There are so many things to see in this part of the Holland region that I’m sure you will adore.

52. Naarden

Where to stay:  Vesting Hotel & Restaurant

The town of Naarden is by far one of The Netherlands most beautiful fortified cities. Naarden is one of the star forts you can find in The Netherlands and one of the places that will instantly make you go back in time. One of the things that I love about Naarden is that you can explore the fortifications, get lost in the endless historic streets and find many other things to do. And Naarden is one of the best small towns near  Amsterdam .

Find a full article on what to do in Naarden here.

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Other The Netherlands travel blogs that you’ll love

Most beautiful places to visit in The Netherlands

Dutch villages to see in The Netherlands

Best day trips from Amsterdam

Ultimate day trips from Rotterdam

Top day trips from Utrecht

I hope you enjoyed this blog about beautiful towns in The Netherlands you need to visit. Whether you were searching for towns with pretty Dutch canals or the best small towns nearby a big city such as Maastricht, this article has given you all the answers you need. The Netherlands is filled with cool places to visit, and I truly hope you will enjoy your vacation in The Netherlands with these insider tips. Share this post!

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7 Cities & Towns you Must Visit in the Netherlands

My time in the Netherlands came and went in a flash. But if we’re being particular it lasted 8 days and 7 nights, all of which were jam-packed. So if you’re wondering which cities you must visit in the Netherlands, these are my top picks.

Throughout my time here in the land of bicycles and miniature pancakes I was eager to see, do and taste as much as possible. Although I didn’t quite get to every pitstop I had planned, I did manage to see and do everything I wanted in each of the cities I did visit, making up for quality over quantity.

Let’s dive in!

Cities and towns you must visit in the Netherlands

An obvious starting point: Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most visited cities and with one picture or postcard, it isn’t hard to see why. This city, built on canals with wonky houses, would have to be one of the world’s most photographed cities if not  the most.  Be sure to wander around at leisure and leave yourself three days here (minimum) as there’s  a lot  to see and do. In terms of museums make sure you don’t miss the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Elsewhere be sure to visit Singel Canal, Keizersgracht Canal, Vondelpark and Jordaan neighbourhood.

My next stop in the Netherlands was to catch the (30 minutes-ish) train ride to The Hague , which is better known to the Dutchies as  Den Haag.  As the centre for global judiciary decisions, I had been eager to visit since my first two years of law school (of which I dropped out of to complete a political science degree). This city was as grand as I had envisioned, with beautiful architecture and perfectly manicured gardens at every turn.

image via Flickr

You can reach Leiden by train from Amsterdam in less than 30 minutes, or by train from The Hague in just 10. Pronounced “LIE – DEN”, this city is a great pit stop if travelling between one Dutch city and another, dropping your bags at the train station and exploring for a day. With canals and quintessentially Dutch architecture, this is a great alternative to the tourist-heavy streets of Amsterdam.

By far the cutest city I came across in all of the Netherlands and even one of the most charming in all of Europe, I cannot believe it has taken me so many years of travel to discover Delft! Just a few minutes by train from The Hague, Delft has the charm of a small town with the benefits of a sizeable city nearby (not to mention some of the world’s best gelato!)

Described to me as Amsterdam’s cooler little sister, Utrecht is a city like no other in the Netherlands and perhaps even in Europe (though it kind of reminded me of the effortless coolness of Antwerp and Ghent in Belgium). Utrecht doesn’t have many sights or attractions, but has plenty of cool cafes, eateries and boutiques to discover. Its the kind of city you can visit and feel like a local within minutes.

Image via Flickr

Perhaps the “coolest” city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is in a league of its own. Modern and design-focused, Rotterdam was completely wiped out by the Germans in in 1940 as a sign of power to the rest of the country who might similarly meet the Germany army with resistance. For this reason Rotterdam is extremely unique to the Netherlands, as it does not have an old town centre or appear alike any of the other cities in the country, though it does have a widespread reputation for architecture and design.

Well and truly in the south of the Netherlands is Maastricht, another interesting city I discovered on my travels through the country and one that I found a great base to explore from. With a unique location near to the Belgium border and not far from France or Germany, this is a great city to base yourself in for day trips to explore nearby Cologne, Liege, and you could even travel down in to Luxembourg! The city itself warrants a couple of days to explore – Maastricht iss a beautiful city with a well-deserved gastronomic reputation. Of all the cities you must visit in the Netherlands, I think Maastricht is the most underrated.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Discover the most beautiful destinations in the Netherlands

Best Places to visit in the Netherlands in 2024

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What are the Prettiest Parts of The Netherlands , the Best Cities to Visit in The Netherlands in 2024 ?

Discover the 11 Places to Visit in The Netherlands on your Next Trip, some of the Most Visited Cities in The Netherlands but also the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Netherlands , the 11 Cities & Towns your Must Visit in The Netherlands .

From Amsterdam to Zaanse Schanse discover the Ultimate Guide of the 11 Best Places and Attractions to Visit in The Netherlands .

Book your flights , your accommodation in the Netherlands as well as your Activities and Tours in The Netherlands and visit the Best Dutch Cities . 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Spots in The Netherlands , the Most Famous Dutch Castles , the Best Sandy Beaches in The Netherlands as well as the Best Things to do in The Netherlands .

1. Amsterdam

We all agree that you cannot travel to the Netherlands without discovering its capital, the Most Beautiful Place to Visit in The Netherlands :   Amsterdam .

Amsterdam is both what you imagine and so much more. Amsterdam is above all a cultural destination with museums such as the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum.

Amsterdam is obviously a perfect destination for shopping with its Magna Plaza shopping center, one of the most beautiful shopping centers in Europe , as well as incredible shopping streets such as "Kalverstraat", "Nieuwendijk" and "PC Hoofstraat" which are among the biggest shopping streets in Europe. 

Never mind the clichés and discover Amsterdam by bike, a gentle and ecological way to explore the Most Visited City in the Netherlands .

Book your flights to Amsterdam and your accommodation at the best price and your tours in Amsterdam such as a Canal boat cruise .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and reach the city center in 20 minutes by train.

  Where to stay:  " Eden Hotel Amsterdam " situated in the heart of the city center.

2. Keukenhof

Located just 45 minutes from Amsterdam (by car or train), the city of Lisse, one of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in the Netherlands , has managed to make itself known to the world through a unique event. From mid-March to mid-May you can discover hundreds of thousands of tulips in the Keukenhof Park.

You will find an incredible number of different varieties and colours of tulips. Each year, the best tulip makers in the Netherlands come to plant the bulbs of their most beautiful varieties in the park to show the public as well as buyers, their know-how and their catalog of tulips. 

Book your flights to Amsterdam as well as your accommodation at the best price and activities in the Netherlands , such as a " From Amsterdam: Keukenhof entry ticket and transfers ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam and your transfer to Keukenhof.

  Where to stay:  " NH Collection Amsterdam Doelen ". Get pampered like a star in this mythical 5-star hotel.

3. Maastricht

Surrounded by Belgium and Germany , Maastricht is a pleasant cosmopolitan city, one of the Most Beautiful Cities in the Netherlands .

Maastricht is a perfect destination for shopping with friends or family. For an unforgettable trip, visit the Christmas Market in Maastricht , one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in The Netherlands .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Maastricht Airport (15 minutes from downtown by car, 40 minutes by public transport). 

  Where to stay:  " Dutch Maastricht ". We love its decor and location in the Wyck neighbourhood.

4. Nijmegen

Nijmegen is the oldest city of the Netherlands with a city center full of important historical locations. And it’s not just a rich cultural history that Nijmegen has to offer. A large number of students, numerous events and festivals, unique hot spots and cozy restaurants all add up to an unprecedented liveliness in this city among the Top-Rated Places to Visit in The Netherlands .

Just put your feet in the sand at the city beach next to the river Waal, or relax at one of the numerous sidewalk cafes.

A large array of both chain stores and small and unique specialty stores will complete your Nijmegen experience, whether you’re here for a day or for the entire weekend. And don’t forget to have a drink and a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

Book your flights to Eindhoven or Amsterdam Airport (1h30 by public transport) as well as your accommodation at the best price in Nijmegen and discover one of the Prettiest Places to Visit in The Netherlands .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Eindhoven or Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and reach the city center in 1h30 minutes by train.

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Credible " Situated in the best rated area in Nijmegen.

5. Giethoorn

Steenwijkerland

Located 1h30 from Amsterdam by car (2h by train) Giethoorn is not only one of the Best Tourist Places to Visit in The Netherlands , it is also one of the best hidden gems in the Netherlands .

This pretty little town is so romantic with its thatched roofs, canals and flower gardens. The canals were dug by men to extract peat.

The name "Giethoorn" comes from the Dutch "Geitenhoorns" in Dutch and refers to the goats’ horn which were found in the fields.

If you come by train from Amsterdam Central Station, take the first train to Amersfoort and a second train to Steenwijk (then take bus number 70). It is longer than a car drive but more ecological.

You can also book online your tours in the Netherlands , such as a " From Amsterdam: Day trip to Giethoorn by bus and boat " to discover one of the Best Duch Places to Visit .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam and book your day trip to Giethoorn by bus and boat. 

  Where to stay:  " Bed & Breakfast Giethoorn " features river views. 

6. Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is certainly the Most Beautiful Village in the Netherlands . Located 20 minutes from the historic centre of Amsterdam you can reach this village from the station Sloterdijk Amsterdam.

Walk, take a boat or go by bike in this little corner of paradise ranked among the 10   Places you Need to See in the Netherlands . A perfect destination for a getaway out of town.

Book your flights to Amsterdam as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours in Amsterdam , such as the " Half Day Tour of Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam ". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam and reach Zaanse Schans by train or car (20 min). 

  Where to stay: " Zaanhof Luxurious Amsterdam Zaanse Schans Loft Apartment ". It offers an outdoor fitness and a hot tub.

Located only 1 hour from Amsterdam , Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands  and one of the Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands .

Utrecht is known worldwide for the De Haar Castle ranked among the most beautiful castles in the Netherlands . You will fall in love with the romantic canals, botanical gardens and cathedral. 

Book your flights  to Amsterdam as well as your hotel, apartments, or B&B at the best price in Utrecht. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and travel to Utrecht by public transport (30 min) or by car (50 min). 

  Where to stay:  " Grand Hotel Karel V " located in the historic heart of Utrecht.

You will fall in love with Delft, one of the Most Beautiful Cities in the Netherlands . With romantic canals like Amsterdam , Delft is known worldwide for its ‘faience’ tiles and objects in white and blue, the symbol of this city.

You know more than you think about Delft. Have you seen the movie "The Girl with the Pearl Earring"? It was inspired by an oil painting by Dutch Golden Age painter Johannes Vermeer,

What are you waiting for? Delft is only 15 minutes away by car or bus from the airport.

Book your flights to Rotterdam airport as well as your accommodation at the best price in Rotterdam or Delft and your tours and activities in Delft , such as a " Guided walking tour in Delft ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Rotterdam-The Hague Airport (15 min by car or bus).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Johannes Vermeer Delft " situated in the city centre of Delft. 

9. The Hague

The Netherlands offer a great diversity of landscapes and truly unique cities.

The Hague , known worldwide for its International Tribunal, is one of the Best Dutch Cities to Visit .

If you are visiting with your family, make sure you visit the " Madurodam " park with its miniature versions of the most beautiful cities and the most beautiful monuments of The Netherlands.

Art lovers will want to visit the "Mauritshuis" to view some of the greatest 17th century masterpieces such as the Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer’s paintings. At the end of the day, hop aboard the big-wheel located on the seaside in the district of Scheveningen. 

Book your flights to Rotterdam-The Hague Airport as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours in The Hague , such as your entrance ticket for Madurodam Mini World .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Rotterdam-The Hague Airport and travel to the city centre by car (30 min) or by public transport (1h).

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Indigo The Hague – Palace Noordeinde ", a four-star boutique hotel located in a bank building.

10. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is one of the most important port cities in Europe but also one of the most amazing and beautiful cities in the Netherlands .

Its port, still very much active, has become one of the favourite attractions for travellers to Rotterdam.

You can also treat yourself to a "Port of Rotterdam 2-hour bike tour ".  For architecture enthusiasts, book today your " Rotterdam Architecture Walking tour ". 

Book your flights to Rotterdam now, as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Rotterdam. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Rotterdam-The Hague Airport and travel to the city centre by car (15 min) or public transport (20 min). 

  Where to stay:  " Stayokay Rotterdam " situated in the heart of Rotterdam.

Located only 30 minutes by public transport from Amsterdam , Leiden is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands .

Leiden is a perfect destination for families: you can hike, walk along the canals or discover the beautiful Leiden Botanical Garden.

Leiden is a car-free city, so one more reason to go! You can park in one of the car parks surrounding the city and reach the city center by bus. 

Book your flights to Amsterdam as well as your  accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in the Netherlands , such as a " Leiden 2-hour walking tour ". 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Amsterdam and get to Leiden by car (20 min) or by train (15 min).

  Where to stay:  " Boutique Hotel Steenhof Suites " for its spacious rooms and excellent location.

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30 Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands

Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands? Then this list with the most beautiful places to visit is exactly what you are looking for. Find below a map with all the tourist spots of the Netherlands and pick the ones you like for your next trip. The Netherlands has a wide variety of tourist attractions and this extensive list has some off the beaten path destinations that you won't find in any other Netherlands travel guide.

It’s not a surprise that the worldwide Corona crisis has put a stop to all our travels. Some awesome trips abroad got cancelled and had to be rescheduled. In the meantime the Traveltomtom team had time to check out the beautiful tourists attractions in the Netherlands. With some borders being closed, and a negative travel advice for most of the outside world, Traveltomtom started looking into sightseeing in The Netherlands. We found out that Holland, our small little country has so much to offer. For some reason we rather travel as far away as possible. But the Corona crisis made us reconsider to visit some Netherlands tourist attractions.

Holland has 12 provinces and the Traveltomtom Team has traveled to all of them. We visited all the tourist hotspots around our country, some during the recent global Covid pandemic. On top of all that we visited some unique hidden gems which we want you to discover too. Are you ready?

When traveling to the Netherlands stay connected and buy a local sim card for the Netherlands . Flying to Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam? Don't buy your sim card for the Netherlands there. Why? Here is your guide for buying a sim card at Amsterdam Airport and decide yourself!

Join us on a journey along the best things to in the Netherlands. With this list of the most amazing tourist attractions I am sure you make the most out of your Netherlands trip.

Map of the beautiful places to visit in Netherlands

1. Amsterdam

Our capital city! I love Amsterdam, in fact, I think it’s one of the best capital cities in the world. And I assure you, Amsterdam is so much more than the red-light district and legal drugs.

Amsterdam became quiet during the Corona crisis, for months museum, restaurants and bars had to be closed. Residents of Amsterdam loved the peace and quiet in the city. Normally for the best things to do in Amsterdam like the Anne Frank House, it’s almost impossible to get tickets. There are always massive queues lining up alongside the museum. When things started to open up again, but tourists were still not allowed into the Netherlands, we thought this would be the perfect time to visit our capital, and visit all the places we normally don’t get the chance for.

My top recommendation for Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. A very important part of our history, which they turned into an interesting and impressive museum. Find out where she and her family hid, and where she wrote her famous diary.

Explore Amsterdam by foot as much as possible, walk through narrow alleys, discover Amsterdam at its best! Another recommendation I would like to make is a boat tour on the canals of Amsterdam. They usually last for about an hour, and you get to see some pretty nice and new sights of Amsterdam. During the tour commentary will be provided in multiple languages.

Some other must do’s for Amsterdam: rent a bike and explore the Vondelpark, walk through the most expensive shopping street of the Netherlands, the PC Hooftstraat, visit the Rijksmuseum and the famous Nachtwacht painting, take the free ferry-boat behind the Central Station and visit the A’dam Tower (amazing Amsterdam views guaranteed!).

Where to stay around Amsterdam? The Traveltomtom team lately tried out the brand new Van Der Valk Amsterdam Zuidas Hotel , with the most magnificent views over the Amsterdam business district for sure. Want to stay in a more central hotel in Amsterdam then have a look at the Volkshotel in Amsterdam Oost . Their uniquely designed rooms, Canvas rooftop bar bar/restaurant and a hot tub with views over Amsterdam make it a unique hotel in Amsterdm.

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2. Kissing Couple XXL

Located on the North side of Amsterdam, right at the point where you take the ferry to Zaandam, they installed something pretty cool. The Kissing Couple XXL in Delfts blue colors. I stumbled upon it though social media, and immediately thought, I have to add this to my Netherlands sightseeing tour.

It’s very easy to visit by car, as there is a carpark right next to the Kissing Couple. But there is another fun way of getting to the Kissing Couple XXL. You can easily visit it by bike. From Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station just follow the blue dot route to the Hempont Ferry. The Kissing Couple can’t be missed. Need more information on the bike route? Check it out here .

For a unique place to stay in The Netherlands check out the Clock Tower Suite in Weesp . It is near Amsterdam and you get a chance to sleep in the tower of an old church! Click on the link for a complete review of what is called one of the best hotel rooms in The Netherlands.

3. Zaanse Schans

The Zaanse Schans, one of Netherlands top things to do, I had wanted to visit this place for such a long time. But it’s normally crowded with tourists there, a very popular spot. I guess that has always kept me from visiting. After visiting Kinderdijk earlier this trip, where we were pretty much the only one around, I had high hopes for the Zaanse Schans. Often the parking lot tells a lot about how busy the place you’re visiting is. The parking lot at the Zaanse Schans was empty, which made me very enthusiastic.

The Zaanse Schans is an amazing place to visit, full of windmills, handcraft shops and museums. The Zaanse Schans is actually a residential area, keep in mind, people actually live here! The Dutch 18th and 19th centuries are brought alive here. It feels like walking through an open-air museum.

This place is a unique part of the Netherlands. Where else will you find wooden houses, mills, barns and workshops? Every part tells its own story.

Walk around, buy some cheese, clogs as a souvenir or chocolate, visit a windmill and learn about what they still do there. The Zaanse Schans is a fun day out, and super easy to visit from Amsterdam. It’s located right next to Zaandam, a lovely place with a very relaxed city center with some more classic Dutch architecture to discover. De Zaanse Schans definitely is a must visit place in the Netherlands.

A great place to stay near de Zaanse Schans is the Boutique Hotel STAATS in Haarlem . The Traveltomtom team checked it out, read the full review in the link.

4. Volendam

We had been to Volendam before, more than once even. It’s always a great day out and I love the atmosphere is this quaint town, even on busy and crowded days. However, we got curious to what Volendam would be like these days during the Corona pandemic.

I was shocked, as I had never seen Volendam as empty as it was this June. The famous Dijk was completely empty. A few tourists, but mostly locals were around, so nice. But that was of course due to the pandemic.

From Amsterdam you can easily take a daytrip to Volendam. Consider taking the bus, as this popular Netherlands tourist attraction is located just over 30 minutes from the city center of Amsterdam.

Volendam is a classic Dutch charming harbour village. The Dijk is the most famous part of the town full of shops and restaurants, along the water. All located in traditional wooden buildings. Looking for that cheesy photo in Dutch costume? Volendam is your place to be!

Tourists often only visit Amsterdam, or maybe Volendam if they stay longer, but often don’t explore more of the Zaan Region, just above Amsterdam. We knew there was much more to explore in this region than just Volendam and Amsterdam. The Zaanse Schans for example, but also don’t skip the city of Hoorn. A great little Dutch town, with a huge history to it.

Hoorn, the city of the Golden Age. Hoorn is located directly by the water and was very prosperous during the Golden Age. Hoorn turned out to be the perfect location for the trading routes of the Dutch East India Company. This rich history of Hoorn nowadays lives on in monumental buildings, grand architecture and museums full of historical treasures.

Hoorn is one of the overlooked places to visit in Holland, but totally worth visiting.

Best place to stay around Amsterdam

Hotels in Amsterdam can be expensive, especially in the city center. If you’re keen on exploring both the city of Amsterdam, but also the Zaanse Schans, Hoorn and Volendamand many other highlights to visit around Amsterdam, we might just have the perfect place for you.

Our Netherlands tip for this region is Van der Valk Amsterdam-Oostzaan Hotel . This hotel is located just outside of Amsterdam, along the highway, so it’s very easy to get there. It’s located within half an hour max of the tourists attractions such as Amsterdam, Volendam, Hoorn, Zaanse Schans and Muiderslot. Your perfect gateway to this beautiful part of Holland.

Additional benefit is the free parking offered by Van der Valk Oostzaan. Staying that close to Amsterdam, yet being able to park your car for free, that’s a real bonus!

Another benefit this hotel offers its guests is the shuttle service. No hassle, make sure to book a spot for this service, and they bring you to the city of Amsterdam! They drop you at a free ferry, from where you cross the water to the center of Amsterdam. During the holidays this service is offered on a daily basis, with multiple departure times available.

Looking to explore this region by bike? Good idea, the Van Der Valk Oostzaan hotel offers bike rental and some very interesting and fun bike routes. Just ask at reception for more information.

Booking.com

Van der Valk Amsterdam Oostzaan opened its door to the public just a few years ago, a rather new hotel this is. Something new hotels of the Van der Valk Group have in common is the wellness and fitness areas, often located on the top floors of the hotel. The Amsterdam – Oostzaan hotel is no exception. Make sure to check out the pool, gym and sauna. If you want to do so, please keep in mind that a reservation is required nowadays.

6. Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle is one of the oldest and best-preserved castles of the Netherlands, it was built in 1285. Back then they had just one goal in mind when building this castle, defence!

This famous Dutch castle is located just outside Amsterdam, and therefore really easy to visit. It’s considered one of the must see places in the Netherlands. Reason enough to put it on our itinerary.

Visiting this castle is not free of charge, tickets for Muiderslot Castle are 15,50. This 700-year-old castle is surrounded by water and some beautiful historic gardens. Behind the castle you’ll find the plum orchard of the castles famous resident and writer P.C. Hooft. When the plums were ripe and sweet, he gladly invited his guests to the Muiderslot. He closed his letters with the, now famous phrase ‘Until plum-time!’.

Muiderslot Castle obviously also had to close its doors due to Corona, but they have opened up again, ready to welcome visitors. In fact, they have come up with something really cool and one of my best Netherlands travel tips.

During summer you can camp right next to the castle, how cool is that? You arrive in the afternoon, and have the castle all to yourself. You’ll get a tour through an empty castle, gather around a campfire, and have breakfast delivered to your tent.

If camping is not your thing then I can highly recommend you to check out the Van Der Valk Utrecht Hotel . The Traveltomtom team stayed here, check out the review in the link. Also close by the Muiderslot Castle is the city of Wageningen where you can find the unique Hotel de Wereld where in 1945 the capitulation of Germany troops was signed by Colonel - General Blaskowitz. Here you can relive history, a unique place to stay in The Netherlands!

7. Heeswijk Castle

Heeswijk Castle is located in the South of the Netherlands, just over half an hour from the city of Eindhoven. It is considered the most beautiful castle of the Brabant province and one you won’t often find in a Netherlands travel guide.

The castle is very easily accessible, just follow the signs to the free parking facilities, and walk up to the castle. You can walk all around the castle for free. If you want to visit the castle and see it if from the inside. Tickets for the Heeswijk Castle cost €11 .

The castle is surrounded by woods with plenty of walking tracks around the castle.

Heeswijk Castle has played an important role during World War II. During the massive operation Market Garden, paratroopers were dropped to secure the route of advancing British ground forces. There are multiple information signs around the castle telling you about the history. You can even follow the Liberation Route and learn all about it.

Looking for places to stay around the Heeswijk Castle then try the Hotel Modez in Arnhem . The Traveltomtom team stayed there and came up with 6 reasons why to book this hotel. Read the review in the link. 

8. Fort de Roovere

Fort de Roovere is located in the far west corner of the province of Brabant, close to the border with Zeeland. It is an earthen fort, constructed as part of the Dutch Water Line, the Hollandse Waterlinie, a series of water-based defenses.

In recent years extensive renovations have been done to the fort, as it had fallen into major disrepair.  What got me really curious to visit this place is the Moses Bridge. This bridge appears to divide the water, so we know where it gets its name from. It seems like this bridge crosses through the water, something unique.

Looking for some aerial views? Just recently the Pompejus watchtower was added to the area and opened to the public. Fort de Roovere for sure is an off the beaten path tourist destination in the Netherlands away from the crowds.

9. Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is probably as Dutch as it gets, this tourist attraction is why people visit the Netherlands, and Kinderdijk is how people think of and see the Netherlands. No wonder this UNESCO World Heritage site is a popular place to visit, that attracts thousands of tourists every year.

The Kinderdijk windmill complex is unique in the world, you won’t find this anywhere else in the world. We Dutch have always struggled with water, these windmills and pumping stations have been keeping the soil dry here for centuries now.

You can actually walk around here for free, no entrance. If you want to visit the museum mills or sail along the windmills, you would need to buy an entrance ticket, which you have to do prior to your arrival to Kinderdijk. This is one of these Dutch tourist hotspots that is crowded in any given normal situation, but due to the corona crisis there were only a handful of people, perfect!

Best place to stay around Kinderdijk

Our recommendation for a place to stay when visiting Kinderdijk is Van der Valk Hotel Dordrecht . It is located at cycling distance from the Biesbosch National Park, and just a short 10-minute drive to the city center of Dordrecht. You can rent bikes from the hotel to discover the highlights in Dordrecht, even cycle to Kinderdijk which is a 19 kilometer bike ride. All easy and flat terrain and the best way to visit Holland anyway. Stay active!

Van der Valk Hotel Dordrecht is conveniently located right next to the A16 highway, which makes this hotel very easily accessible.

Next to that, and because the Netherlands is just a small country, it is also located within reasonable distance of attractions like Kinderdijk, the Deltaworks and the beaches of Scheveningen, all within an hour drive of the hotel.

This hotel has an amazing wellness center right at the top. This wellness center offers a pool, fitness area and sauna. Also located on the top floor of the hotel is the skybar. It’s one of Dordrecht best bars to have a drink. Perfect to enjoy a drink on a summer evening, while enjoying the views from up here.

10. Dordrecht

Dordrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, and with the Biesbosch as its backyard, Dordrecht is a great place to stay and explore.

The city of Dordrecht is full of monuments. The town hall for example was built in the 14th century. One of the biggest highlights of the city is the Grote Kerk. The famous church of Dordrecht is often listed as one of the top places to visit in Netherlands.

From monuments to modern shops, Dordrecht offers it all, yet not too busy like its bustling neighbour Rotterdam for example, which makes it a great day trip when visiting the Netherlands.

11. National Park the Biesbosch

National Park the Biesbosch is one of the many national parks in the Netherlands. It’s spread over two provinces, Zuid Holland and Brabant, however, most of the Biesbosch is located in Brabant. The Biesbosch is the largest fresh water tidal zone in Europe, which means you can find many streams and willow swamps here. Going deep into the Biesbosch the area looks just like a jungle.

Most of these areas are only accessible by boat. The Biesbosch is a paradise for nature lovers, you’re surrounded by nature and wildlife. The possibilities to explore the Biesbosch are endless, by boat, walking or cycling. Go out, explore and experience this National Park a great thing to do in The Netherlands.

There are 2-hour boat tours into the jungle of the Netherlands that cost €15. Boat tours are not every day. Click here for more info about the Biesbosch .

12. Deltaworks Neeltje Jans

The Delta Works are one of the most renowned works in the world, and the largest storm surge barrier in the world. In the Zeeland province they call it the Eighth Wonder of the World, which emphasizes the importance of the Delta Works to the Netherlands.

The Netherlands, and the province of Zeeland in particular, is largely located at or below sea level. The Delta Works were built to prevent a repeat of the 1953 flooding disaster. You can visit and explore these huge storm barriers. Walk across or get toured around. Tickets for Neeltje Jans cost €25 .

But there is much more to see and do here. Have some fun in the waterpark, visit Zeeland’s largest aquarium, visit seals and sea lions or go on a boat trip on the Oosterschelde.

13. Parkstad Limburg

Parkstad Limburg is the fastest growing tourist destination in the Netherlands. It has the largest indoor ski park in Europe, the longest staircase in the Netherlands, the largest home-improvement boulevard in Europe, the most modern and innovative zoo in Europe and the largest world-themed gardens park in the Netherlands. If this is not enough reason to visit this region, then what is? This region is located in the very South of the Netherlands, close to the Heuvelland region, Maastricht, and the borders of Germany and Belgium.

In Parkstad Limburg you will also find Heerlen, the street art capital of the Netherlands . The murals in Heerlen appeal to the imagination internationally.

There are so many cool things to do in Parkstad Limburg and it’s not just the region that is award winning here, how about the award-winning Gaia Zoo? Opened in 2005, ever since its opening this Zoo has won one award after the other. Among many other awards, it’s been awarded Best Zoo of the Netherlands, and for years in a row now it’s also been awarded Best Day Out in the Netherlands.

Want to know more about this region and the street art capital of the Netherlands? Check out our blog about the best things to do in Heerlen . Best place to stay in Parkstad Limburg

The Parkstad region isn’t that large, but still has a lot to offer. So when visiting this region, be sure to visit for more than one day. We did the work for you and found you the best place to stay in Parkstad Limburg.

Van der Valk Hotel Heerlen offers the perfect location in the heart of Parkstad, and close to all the highlights this region has to offer. It’s located along the N281 motorway, so very easily accessible. From this hotel you can explore the Street Art Capital of the Netherlands by foot or by bike. Attractions like Snowworld and the Gaia Zoo are only a very short drive away.

Hotel Heerlen is part of the estate of Terworm. Estate Terworm is a nature reserve offering various possibilities for relaxation. Very suitable for jogging, walking, cycling, with routes from 4 to 7 kilometers. So after a long and active day out, this is the perfect place to enjoy and relax.

Another great place to stay in Zuid - Limburg is the Heuvelland, the only place where Holland is NOT flat! Check out the most beautiful scenery and viewpoints of Holland when staying at the Hotel Klein Zwitserland  in the picturesque little town of Slenaken.

14. Pyramid of Austerlitz

In the weeks before our Netherlands roadtrip I did some research. I knew a lot of places to visit in Netherlands, but I was also looking for some unknown, never heard of spots I wanted to add to our Netherlands itinerary.

One of these places to visit I had never heard of before, is the Pyramid of Austerlitz. I thought pyramids only existed in Egypt, but I know now that we actually have a very cool one in the Netherlands too.

While the Pyramid itself was still closed during our visit, due to the Corona crisis, we could actually get quite close. If you want to climb the pyramid you have to buy a ticket, but like I said, you can get really close, and walk all around it without buying a ticket as well.

The Pyramid of Austerlitz is tucked away in the forests of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Absolutely a great location, hidden away, a short walk through the forest before the pyramid appears.

The Pyramid of Austerlitz was built in 1804 by Napoleon’s soldiers, they chose one of the highest points of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. The Pyramid is a national monument, and a must do when visiting Netherlands. Not classic Dutch, but it will surprise you! This pyramid is located only a short, 25-minute drive from Utrecht.

Not directly nearby but within 45 minute drive you will find another great place to visit in Holland: Den Bosch. In this city you can sleep in an old crane and the coolest thing: it is still working! This old crane is converted into a hotel room and from your bed, you can turn your hotel room 360 degrees if you want. NO JOKE! Check out the complete blog about the Bossche Kraan Hotel , one of the most unique places to stay in the Netherlands.

15. Wadden Islands - Texel

Travelling the Netherlands isn’t complete without visiting one of our Wadden Islands. The Netherlands have five inhabited Wadden Islands: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. With Texel being the largest and most populated of our Dutch Islands, we decided to add Texel to our itinerary along the best places to visit.

It’s very easy to get from the Dutch mainland to Texel. Drive all the way up to Den Helder, which is actually quite an interesting place itself to pay a visit to.

Den Helder is home to the Netherlands main navy base. This all dates back to 1811, when Napoleon Bonaparte visited Den Helder, and was impressed with the towns strategic location. So impressed that he ordered the construction of a fort and naval dockyards. In 1947 Den Helder officially became the Royal Netherlands Navy’s main centre of operations. An interesting museum to visit when in Den Helder is the Dutch Navy Museum.

So, from Den Helder the Royal TESO ferryboat service operates between the city and the nearby Wadden Island Texel. You can see Texel from the mainland when waiting for the ferry.

Insiders Netherlands tip: Travel to Texel on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, if you do so, you’ll receive a 30% discount on the ferry.

When docking in at Texel, they can’t be missed, the Texel sheep. The Texel is a breed of sheep, originally from, yes the Island of Texel. Everything made of wool can be bought in shops across Texel.

The dune landscape on Texel is unique and a great habitat for wildlife. About one third of the island is a protected nature reserve. The best way to explore Texel is by bike, but you have to withstand the sometimes strong winds. You can rent bikes all over the island!

Often seen as the symbol of Texel is the red lighthouse at the northern end of the island. You can also climb the lighthouse.

Views from up there include the North Sea, the Wadden Sea and the next Wadden Island Vlieland. When it’s dark, the light of this lighthouse can be seen from as far as Leeuwarden.

De Koog is the so-called seaside town of Texel. Just a few dunes separate the village from the ocean and the beach. De Koog is a nice place to spend a few hours, it has a great shopping center, some lovely restaurants and some nice beach clubs.

Den Burg is considered the capital of Texel, nearly half of the population of Texel live in Den Burg. This lovely little town has a lot to offer. Great shopping opportunities, plenty of terraces to have a drink, it’s just a great little town to walk through. There is more than enough things to do when visiting Texel, perfect for a day trip, but enjoying a sunset and a sunrise here is even more magical.

16. The Afsluitdijk

After visiting Texel it was time to do something that had been on our so called Netherlands Bucketlist for a very long time. It may sound stupid, because this is often seen as ‘just’ a highway connecting two provinces, but the Afsluitdijk is so much more than that!

The Afsluitdijk is a major dam in the Netherlands and famous place to see, completed in 1932. This means the Afsluitdijk has been protecting the Netherlands from the force of water for nearly 90 years now. The total length of the dike is 32.5 km. The dike is more than just a water barrier. It’s a motorway connecting two Dutch provinces as well. Everyday thousands of people use the A7 motorway to travel between Noord-Holland and Friesland. The Afsluitdijk was the initial demonstration site for a 130km/h speed limit in the Netherlands.

The Afsluitdijk is currently under construction, to make it even more future proof, for many more years to come. Once construction works are done, the Dijk will be stronger, higher and more robust looking. There is so much to see, not just the Afsluitdijk itself. Here is the Afsluitdijk Wikipedia page for even more info.

Enjoy the Wadden Sea, visit the Afsluitdijk Wadden Centre or the monument right in the middle of the Afsluitdijk. Part of the construction works and upgrades to the dike are a new cycle and walking path, imaginable with endless views on the Wadden Sea.

One of the first major cities you’ll come across after crossing the Afsluitdijk into Friesland is the city of Sneek. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to spend as much time in the city as I wanted, one has to make choices while travelling, which means we only had time for a brief stop in Sneek. However, Sneek has an amazing relaxed and laidback atmosphere.

Sneek is one of the Friese Elf Steden (eleven cities). The Elfstedentocht, or eleven cities tour, is a long-distance ice-skating event in the province of Friesland. It’s almost 200 kilometers long and passes all eleven historical towns of the province. The Dutch haven’t had an Elfstedentocht for years, the last one was in 1997. Even King Willem Alexander participated and finished!

Sneek is well known for its canals and of course for the Waterpoort, the symbol of the city. Visiting Sneek in the summer? Try to visit the Sneekweek, Europe’s biggest sailing event.

If you want the best photos of the Waterpoort from the best point of view, don’t go towards the end of the day. The sun sets behind the Waterpoort, which is not ideal for getting the best photos!

18. Groningen

Groningen, both a province and a city in the Netherlands. Both well worth it and great things to do in Netherlands. In this blog we talk about the city of Groningen. It is the largest city in the north of the Netherlands. Even though Groningen isn’t actually the biggest city, it has an important role as the main center of the northern part of the Netherlands. Besides that, Groningen is a real university city, which really contributes to a diverse cultural scene for the city.

Our reason for visiting Groningen was to explore the city everyone always says you just have to visit when traveling to Netherlands, and to see the famous Martinitoren.

Located at the main market square in Groningen, this symbol of the city can’t be missed. The Martinitoren is Groningen’s famous church. It’s one of the main tourist attractions of the city. You can actually climb the tower and enjoy some great views over the city and surrounding areas.

The center of Groningen, surrounding the Martinitoren and the main market square is absolutely worth a visit. There are plenty of shopping opportunities in the nearby streets. Done shopping? Try one of the many restaurants and bars, a great time guaranteed in this bustling city.

19. Vesting Bourtange Fortress

From the city of Groningen, move east towards the German border for a real hidden gem of the Netherlands. This was also one of these things I had never heard of before and never found in a Netherlands travel guide. But when I came across it on the internet, just had to add it to our Netherlands itinerary.

Bourtange fortress is a unique historical defence work. Meet Fortress Bourtange, the fortress that was never taken. Have a look at the Fort Bourtange website , it looks amazing from above.

From the seventies until the nineties last century massive reconstructions took place at the Fortress Bourtange. Digging the canals again, forming the ramparts and reconstructing the many buildings, all in the style of the past. They did this massively with the help of old maps and drawings. Welcome in the year 1742, that’s certainly what it feels like when walking through Bourtange, stepping back in time.

20. Hunebedden

The Hunebeds, prehistoric tombstones, are the oldest monuments in the Netherlands. They were actually transported to Drenthe during the Ice Age, can you imagine?

There are actually 52 Hunebeds to visit in a 30-kilometer radius. So, doing them all might be a bit too much. Thankfully Visit Drenthe has come up with the ‘Big Five’, just for you to discover the best of the prehistoric history in Drenthe in one fell swoop.

Great idea! And that’s why we decided to do the Big Five and discover the best of the Hunebeds. Part of the Big Five is the largest Hunebed (D27) of them all. When visiting the largest Hunebed, you’ll pass the Hunebed Visitor Centre, which is definitely worth a visit! It gives you an idea of how the people who built these Hunebeds used to live.

Visiting the Hunebeds is often listed as one of the top things to do in the Netherlands.

21. Camp Westerbork

Probably the most impressive place we visited on our Netherlands tour was visiting Camp Westerbork. Hidden away in the woods, it makes sense why they chose this location for such a horrible place. Camp Westerbork was known as the foyer of Hell during the Second World War. It was a transit camp to concentration camps like Auschwitz and Sobibor.

When it was built in 1939 it was first used as a refugee camp then turned into a transit camp. A total of 93 trains left from Westerbork, eventually killing 102.000 people.

ssThe camp itself is accessible free of charge. You can’t get to the camp by car. You’ll have to park your car at the museum’s carpark. From there it’s roughly a 2.9km walk to get to the camp. Normally there is a shuttlebus running between the camp and the museum, however due to Corona, that service is currently not running. The museum entrance fee is €10 . But it is well worth a visit, where you will learn a lot about Westerbork’s history.

22. Radio Sterrenwacht

We parked our car at the Camp Westerbork museum and made our way towards the camp. It’s a nice walk, through the woods. All of a sudden, we bumped into 14 huge satellite dishes. Apparently, we ran into the Westerbork Synthese Radio Telescope.

This telescope, built in 1970, is one of the most sensitive telescopes in the world. It consists of 14 satellite dishes, each 25 meters in diameter.

The walk from the Westerbork Museum to Camp Westerbork will guide you along this telescope. In fact, this walkway is called the Milkyway-walk. It’s a very interesting, fun and beautiful walking route on which the fascinating world of the universe and the largest radio telescopes in Europe play a central role and are explained. Both young and old learn about the operation of these enormous satellite dishes.

23. TT Assen Circuit Tour

One of the biggest events of the Netherlands is the MotoGP at the TT Assen. The TT Assen is a circuit mainly used for the MotoGP, but also for numerous other events and activities. You can visit the track on one of the many events taking place each year, or you can book a tour, and get a look behind the scenes.

Into Moto GP? Then this could be very interesting for you. They have the so called ‘Tour de TT’ in Assen. The Tour de TT is 65 kilometers long and takes you to the two old street circuits. Have a taste of what the circuits used to be back in the days as street circuits and enjoy and explore the surrounding areas.

24. Giethoorn

Giethoorn is known for its bridges, waterways and punts, no wonder it is called the ‘Venice of the North’ and one the most famous tourist attractions in the Netherlands.

This idyllic village is located in the Weerribben-Wieden National Park. There are countless thatched farmhouses, built on small islands, connected by more than 170 wooden bridges. The best way to explore Giethoorn is by foot or by boat. There is plenty of time to do both in one day!

Walking along these pretty houses gives you the opportunity to have a look at the many shops and restaurants. You can go on organized cruises on the waters of Giethoorn, where you will be told a lot about the history and the present of Giethoorn.

I would advise to rent a boat yourself and explore the place at your own pace. Boat rents start from 1 hour to a full day. I rented one for an hour, where you cruise through the main canals of Giethoorn and over the Bovenwijde lake.

Giethoorn was one of the top highlights of this Netherlands trip, something I had never seen or done before, unique to the Netherlands. Tourists were still staying away when we visited, keep in mind that this place gets packed any other time!

Where to stay around Giethoorn

Assen and the Drenthe province really surprised me. A lot of nature, forests and national parks, something I really like, the outdoors. As there is so much to do in this region, looking for a centrally and perfectly located hotel was important and a challenge. So I was extremely happy when I found the Van der Valk Hotel in Assen , right in the middle of it all!

It’s the ideal place to stay when discovering the Hunebeds, the TT Assen, Camp Westerbork and Giethoorn, all within short driving distance of the hotel. Drenthe is pre-eminently a walking and biking province. There are so many walking and cycling routes and opportunities.

Hotel Assen warmly welcomes you to have the best time in Drenthe. Hotel Assen has bikes for rent, your start to a thousands of kilometers signposted cycle route network. The hotel has their very own kitchen garden. Herbs, vegetables and fruits fresh from the garden to their restaurant. People working in this kitchen garden are people that are distanced from the labor market and by doing this they gain more relevant work experience.

This hotel is currently working on a new wellness center. Soin the near future you can enjoy a relaxed time at the new wellness after an active day outdoors.

25. Rotterdam - One of World's Biggest Ports

Rotterdam, the 2nd biggest city of the Netherlands and one of the largest ports in the world. It has so many cool places to visit and exciting things to do, I don’t even know where to start really.

From the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the icon of the city, to the cube houses, the market hall and the bustling center, these are some of the best Rotterdam activities.

Even if you only have a short amount of time in the city, make sure the Euromast is part of your visit. The Euromast offers you the best 360 degrees views of the city. Overlooking the Erasmus Bridge, the ss Rotterdam and the famous port of Rotterdam.

When visiting the Euromast, you can combine your visit with a fun 18-hole midget golf course, right next to the Euromast. It’s a very popular thing to do in Rotterdam, and I have to admit, playing some (midget) golf in the center of a city like Rotterdam, that is pretty special.

Another Amazing place to see is the ss Rotterdam. This former ocean liner and cruise ship can be visited nowadays, where you can tour this ship and get to know all about its history and present. Keep reading because I have a great recommendation that has something to do with the ss Rotterdam.

Check out my article on the best things to do in Rotterdam for even more recommendations when traveling to Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is one of the largest ports of the world, how cool would it be to explore this port? Well, you actually can! Spido Rotterdam offers a wide range of port tours and cruises where you get to explore and learn about the importance of the port.

Where to stay in Rotterdam

As second city of the Netherlands Rotterdam obviously offers plenty of accommodation opportunities. However, I have found a unique place to stay, it’s a gem

My top recommendation for places to stay is the ss Rotterdam . You can actually sleep in former cabins of this steamship, and experience how ocean life was like back in the days. Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild, it almost really feels like you’re actually cruising the ocean!

The ss Rotterdam is located in the center of the city, and very easily accessible. You can leave your car at the carpark right next to the ship. You can also arrive by water taxi, as they have special platforms for arrival and departure with these unique taxis.

Looking for the most unique and special place to stay while visiting Rotterdam, stop looking, because it doesn’t get any more special than the ss Rotterdam. Quickly check out their rates and start booking , because a trip to Rotterdam is waiting for you!

26. The Pooping Man & The Batavia

Sometimes you pass some amazing things just by chance. That happened to us when we were travelling the Netherlands and by sheer coincidence passed the amazing sculpture the Exposure, also known as the Crouching Man. Freely translated they also call him the pooping man in the Netherlands, I can see why. This statue is located on a breakwater at the Houtrib locks in Lelystad, overlooking the Markermeer, a shallow lake.

On September 17, 2010 it was unveiled by the artist, and since then it has been a curious sight, but also very popular place to visit in the Netherlands for tourists to take their Instagram shots.

We were actually visiting the Bataviastad Fashion Outlet in Lelystad, when all of a sudden I saw this famous sculpture in the far distance. We jumped back in to our car and drove out to see it closer.

Bataviastad Fashion Outlet is the first ever Outlet Center in the Netherlands, located at the Markermeer in Lelystad. De outlet was named after the Batavia ship from 1628, of which you can find a replica nearby at the Bataviawerf.

The shopping center is an imitation of a fortified town, complete with a heavy city wall, three city gates, pedestrianized cobblestone streets and a series of individual wooden shop buildings with a quasi-authentic architectural appearance. It is partly inspired by the small town of Marken, partly by the West Indian colonies.

As mentioned earlier, right next to this shopping center you’ll find the impressive Batavia, a replica of the Batavia. You can actually visit and explore this ship and discover what life at sea was like in the 17th century. It’s an impressive sight for sure.

27. Tulip Fields in the Bulb Region

The Dutch Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) with its gorgeous flower fields is by far one of the most famous and popular places to visit in the Netherlands. It is located in the Western parts of the Netherlands. The region became famous for its bulb cultivation. Nowadays the flower fields in this part of the Netherlands attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. It’s a fun and diverse region to visit, offering cities, lovely villages, beaches and of course perfect opportunities to take incredible pictures. Therefore the tulip fields are regarded as one of the most Instagrammable places in the Netherlands.

The most famous tourist attraction of the Bollenstreek has to be the Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe. They host a world renowned 8 week tulip display. It’s one of the largest flower gardens in the world.

Another big thing in the Bollenstreek is Bloemencorso, an annual flower parade and flower spectacle. It follows a 42km itinerary from Noordwijk to Haarlem. Along the route you can enjoy some of the most amazing creations and beautifully designed floats, full with narcissi, hyacinths, tulips and other flowers!

When visiting the Bollenstreek simply explore by foot, car, bike, scooter, whatever you choose, go out and explore the many tulip and flower fields this region has to offer. It’s what the Bollenstreek became famous for, and what still attracts many tourists to this part of the Netherlands. Some flower fields actually look like rainbows, very impressive and magical!

Check out our extensive blog post about the Bollenstreek for 9 tips when visiting the Tulip Fields in the Netherlands .

28. Achterhoek

The Dutch Achterhoek is a large area in the east of the country, close to the German border. For some reason it’s an area that isn’t visited that often, and that’s a real shame! Before we visited the Achterhoek I had little expectations, just because I simply didn’t know the area that well and didn’t know what to expect.

Now that I have visited the Achterhoek for 5 days I actually really like the area. I would sum it up as: castles, vast nature, big farms, small quaint and picturesque villages and narrow country roads. Perfect ingredients to add it to this list of best places to visit in The Netherlands.

One of the best places to visit in the Achterhoek is the smallest city in the Netherlands, Bronkhorst. It’s literally a church, a main street, a few houses, some shops and restaurants, that’s it. It takes you less than 5 minutes to see all of Bronkhorst, but it’s on top of our list of things to do in the Achterhoek. It feels like stepping back in time. No cars are allowed in the little village, so make sure to park your car just outside.

Castles really define the Achterhoek. You can easily visit the Achterhoek for a few days and visit multiple castles each day. We selected a few of them to visit as we love visiting these unique places but also tourist attractions. Our top castle recommendations for the Achterhoek are: the Ruurlo Castle and Huis Bergh Castle. Another recommendation is the Eight Castle Route . This one starts from the Vorden Castle, and is a lovely cycling route along eight castles in the area. A great way to explore and experience the area.

The Achterhoek is also well known for its tea gardens. Locals welcome you to their tea garden to enjoy their homemade delicacies. It’s also the place to be to buy regional products. You can also do some lovely shopping in towns like Zutphen or Doetinchem.

Want to know more about the Achterhoek? Check out the website of the local Tourism Board to find more things to see and do and hotspots to visit and places to stay in the Achterhoek. The people at Achterhoek Tourism are happy to help you out with a full itinerary.

29. National Park de Hoge Veluwe

The Veluwe region is a large forest-ridge area in the province of Gelderland. It stretches 60km from North to South and reaches heights of up to 110 meters, which in Holland is high. The Veluwe features many different landscapes including woodland, heath and some small lakes. You can also find Europe’s largest sand drifts in the Veluwe and therefore, definitely worth mentioning in this list of awesome places to visit in The Netherlands.

Within the Veluwe region there are a few National Parks: de Hoge Veluwe National Park and the Veluwezoom National Park. These National Parks are perfect places to truly enjoy the beauty and the nature sites of the Netherlands. You can visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park by car, but the best way to explore them is to go by foot or by bike, as you see much more, and cover areas that are away from the main roads. It’s also the perfect place to spot wildlife, but as always with wildlife, you have to be lucky. If you’re lucky though, you might spot deer, wild boar, mouflon, foxes and highland cattle.

The largest city to visit within the Veluwe region is Apeldoorn. Apeldoorn is probably most famous because of some famous and popular tourist attractions, like Royal Palace 'The Loo', Apenheul Zoo and theme park Koningin Julianatoren. It’s also a good base if you want to visit the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The Veluwe region has a couple other things to do beside visiting the National Park. Here are some of our favorite places to see in the Veluwe.

The Netherlands is a very flat country, but even for a flat country there is a highest waterfall to visit. The Loenense waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Netherlands, and when visiting the Veluwe, absolutely worth a stop. It’s located in the forest, so you can even explore the area a bit more if you like.

Something we didn’t know, but found quite cool once we visited is the exact center of the Netherlands. It is located in Lunteren, in the middle of the forest, so it could be a little search. But once you reach it there is a stone marking the exact center of the country, which I think is quite cool!

Radio Kootwijk is a national monument, and was used as a communication facility between the Netherlands and the colony of Dutch East Indies. Nowadays it is used as a venue for several cultural events and productions, including the American film Mindhunters in 2004. It’s also a popular place to get married in The Netherlands, and for us a must visit for the Veluwe!

Where to stay in the Veluwe?

Van der Valk Apeldoorn is located right next to the A50 highway, and therefor super easily accessible. It’s a lovely and quiet hotel, surrounded by nature, it really feels like being in the middle of the Veluwe already. They have a vegetable garden, chickens and an apiary, they’re really busy with nature and natural products. It’s a great and affordable option when visiting the Veluwe, and easily to combine with a day of shopping in Apeldoorn.

The Traveltomtom recently also stayed in Wageningen at Hotel de Wereld , and fell in love with this place and the story to it. A true icon in the Netherlands where in 1945 the negotiations took place for the liberation of the Netherlands during the second world war. Read more about it in the link.

Last but certainly not least we highly recommend Hotel de Sterrenberg if you’re into the nature and planning on visiting the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Hotel de Sterrenberg is an adult only hotel, and is located only 500 meters from the gates to the Veluwe National Park.

30. Deventer | East Holland

Thinking about doing a city trip in the Netherlands, not many people would come up with Deventer in the East side of the country. But when visiting Veluwe National Park and the Achterhoek region, the city of Deventer is pretty much the perfect city to visit.

It is a small but charming city and visiting Deventer for 1 night is enough. It is worth it though and since it has such a nice and great vibe it might want to make you stay longer. Let’s start with the best place to visit in Deventer to see its skyline. Cross the water by bridge or by ferry and you will have a lovely view of Deventer’s skyline.

Town square the Brink is the bustling center of Deventer. We visited on a weekday, and were surprised how crowded the restaurants and terraces were, very lively and great atmosphere.

The best way to explore Deventer and get to know the city is by doing a city walk. The local tourism office organizes these walks every day and will show you the best of Deventer during a 1.5 hour walk. Pre-registration is required to participate in this tour and the costs are €6 per person.

Deventer is also known for its Deventer Koek (a bit like gingerbread) and something you must try when visiting Deventer. Make sure to take a look at the authentic shop at the town square. This Charles Dickens-esque little shop full of delicacies from grandmother's time will make your mouth water. Of course you will find all original products here. Fresh Deventer Koek is also baked here.

Our top recommendation to stay in Deventer is most definitely Hotel Huis Vermeer . This unique boutique hotel is located in the center of the city which makes it your perfect base to enjoy and explore Deventer. To find out more about this hotel, check our full blog post: Hotel Huis Vermeer Review. 

Netherlands travel blog

Traveling the Netherlands, our own backyard, has been a blast. Especially because it was quiet everywhere due to the Corona pandemic. We visited tourist hotspots, top attractions and must-see places that normally would see hundreds of people a day, and we were actually the only one walking around now. Shooting photos for this Netherlands blog has never been this easy.

This blog was written by travel writer and Traveltomtom team member Ashley . She explored the Netherlands on behalf of Traveltomtom, seeking for the best tourist attractions and some unique off the beaten path destinations and hidden gems. Have a look at her Instagram .

I hope all these Netherlands travel tips were helpful for your next adventure. Safe travels!

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is often incorrectly referred to as Holland, and is one of the most vibrant and interesting countries in Europe. Known for its eclectic capital city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands is far more than just canals and museums, and if you venture further afield you will find picture postcard pretty towns as well as dynamic cities like Rotterdam and The Hague.

Due to its relatively small size it is easy to visit the Netherlands fairly quickly and to see a lot of the country in a short space of time. Getting out into the countryside is often one of the highlights of a trip for many, especially if you visit famous areas like the traditional villages that are filled with iconic windmills and tulips. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by bicycle and fortunately much of the Netherlands is flat which means you can easily navigate the landscape and enjoy the great Dutch outdoors.

Here are the best things to do in the Netherlands :

1. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Similar to many other cities that sit over water such as Venice, Amsterdam has a vibrant canal system.

The pretty waterways are one of the best loved attractions in Amsterdam and you can explore the idyllic routes by taking a boat tour or a water taxi that lets you hop around a range of locations.

If you don’t want to take to the water then you can still enjoy the canal sights with a leisurely stroll along the banks.

Book a cruise : Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

2. Visit Zaanse Schans

Those who wish they could travel back in time and visit the Netherlands of the 17th and 18th centuries have come to the right place.

Zaanse Schans is located around 15 kilometers to the north of Amsterdam and is styled as an open-air museum where you can take a stroll around a traditional Dutch village and find out how ancient craftsmen would have worked.

Just some of the sights include a shipyard, a grocery store, a pewter factory, and a range of dainty green wooden houses.

You will also find some graceful windmills although out of the 600 that would have dotted the area in the days of old, only 5 now remain and can be visited by the public.

These include an iconic saw mill as well as an oil mill and you will find fun live demonstrations like a clog making session.

Recommended tour : Zaanse Schans Windmills Half-Day Tour

3. Stroll around the Garden of Europe

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is a riot of color with blooms of every hue as far as the eye can see.

Tulips are the signature flowers of this country and the Garden of Europe just outside of Lisse is the largest public garden anywhere in the world.

Covering 70 acres of land, you will find gorgeous flower exhibitions as well as restaurants and a wide variety of flora including daffodils hyacinths, and crocuses.

Book online : Keukenhof Gardens Tour

4. Admire Grote Kerk

Grote Kerk is found in The Hague and is a large church that is built from red brick in Gothic style.

The original building here would have been built in the 13th century although it was razed to the ground in 1539 and rebuilt in the present structure.

The church has an illustrious history as the spot where many members of the Dutch royal family where baptized including King Willem-Alexander who had his christening here.

Things to look out for at the church include the dominating bell tower which is the highest in Holland and contains 51 bells as well as the ornate wooden pulpit and the huge pipe organ.

5. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch National Museum located in Amsterdam and is filled with an amazing collection of art and antiques which date from 1809. The building houses over 7 million items and has more than 5,000 paintings that sprawl over 250 rooms.

There is a library here with 35,000 books and you can see some of the most impressive paintings in the world created by the ‘Old Masters’. Much of the museum focuses on traditional Dutch artifacts like ancient handicrafts and sculptures from the medieval period but you will also find exciting modern art.

Make sure you leave ample time to see everything as you can easily spend a full day here exploring every nook and cranny.

Get tickets : Rijksmuseum Entrance Ticket

6. Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Netherlands is often thought of as a small country primarily made up of small towns and cities but actually it has some wonderful national parks.

The largest and most famous of these is the Hoge Veluwe National Park which sits in between Apeldoorn and Arnhem.

It sprawls over an areas of 13,800 acres and is perfect if you are looking for an easy day trip.

The park is covered in woodland and features other quirky exhibits such as a sculpture park, and just some of the residents you will find in the park include red and roe deer.

Other spots include graceful dunes that are covered with heath and if you like bird watching then this is the place to spot a whole range of species.

7. Visit the Anne Frank Museum

The Anne Frank Museum is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam and makes for an extremely moving visit.

The building is the former home of Anne Frank who hid from the Nazis here during the Second World War.

Anne Frank died two months before the war ended but her diary that she wrote in the home was found and went on to become one of the most important books in the world.

The home has been restored although the hiding place in which the family lived is much as it would have been when Anne Frank lived here.

This is absolutely not to be missed if you are in Amsterdam and offers a poignant and personal view on this well known story.

Related tour : Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour

8. Enjoy the village of Marken

The little village of Marken is known for being one of the prettiest spots in the Netherlands, particularly thanks to its strategic location on the Ijsselmeer Lake.

Crowds of visitors flock to the town every year to take in its picture-postcard worthy attractions such as traditional painted wooden houses as well as fishing boats.

In the summer months there are festivals held here where the residents dress in period garb and you can see traditional crafts like clog making taking place.

Included in : Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken Tour

9. Have fun at Efteling

Efteling is the biggest amusement park in the Netherlands and is located at Kaatsheuvel.

The park is divided up into different zones that are known as realms and each one focuses on a different ancient myth or legend.

Efteling has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest themes parks in the world having first opened its doors in 1952 and has been entertaining visitors ever since with its fast rides and lush gardens.

Just some of the highlights here include rides like the Joris en de Draak or the George and the Dragon as well as The Flying Dutchman and the Python.

There are also other areas such as the Raveleijn which is a magical world with a nightly performance that tells the story of 5 siblings who battle and defeat an evil monster.

Book online : Efteling Theme Park Resort Admission Ticket

10. Take a trip to Madurodam

If you want to see the whole of the Netherlands but don’t have time then travel to Madurodam in The Hague.

Here you will find a mini version of the Netherlands on a 1:25 scale and you can see all the county’s top destinations including cute windmills, main landmarks, and decorative features like bridges.

This model city even includes its own harbor as well as a railway system and an airport.

Book online : Madurodam Miniature Park Entrance Ticket

11. Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk

Enjoying a scenic location on the River Noord and nestled between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the village of Kinderdijk which means ‘Children’s Dike’ in Dutch.

The main reason to come here is to take in the beautiful windmills that date from the 18th century and this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are 19 windmills here that date from 1722-1761 and this is the largest group of these structures anywhere in the Netherlands.

You can visit from April to October and there are designated times throughout the year when the sails of the windmills spin and you can see them in all their glory.

12. Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is an ode to one of the greatest artists ever to have lived.

In addition to that, the Van Gogh Museum is regularly voted one of the best art museums in the world, so art-lovers should make sure not to miss it off the itinerary.

An impressive 1.5 million visitors make their way here each year and the museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh pieces in the world.

To that end you will find 200 beautiful paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters that give you a unique insight into the life of the artist.

Fast Entry : Van Gogh Museum Ticket

13. Have a beer at the Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience in Amsterdam is the place to come if you want to learn all about how this famous beer evolved.

The experience takes place in an old Heineken brewery and you can learn about the Heineken family as well as see the actual brewing process that is used to make the beer.

This starts from the kind of water used all the way through to the bottling process and you can also see classic examples of the iconic Heineken logo and see how it has changed over the years.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can of course also sample this famous brew and end the trip with a tasting session.

14. Explore Mauritshuis

Mauritshuis, located in The Hague, is one of the premium art galleries in the Netherlands and is known for its vast collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings.

The building itself is a work of art and dates from the 17th century and is nestled between Hofvijver Lake and the parliament buildings.

Filled with over 800 works of art, this is one of the smaller museums in terms of size but it has some of the most iconic works in the world such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring which was created by Johannes Vermeer.

15. Visit Historic Valkenburg

If you like history then make sure not to miss Valkenburg which lies in the beautiful Geul Valley.

The town is the proud owner of the only hilltop castle in the Netherlands which dates from the 12th century.

The castle sits atop Dwingelrots or Castle Rock and you can also take in the neighboring 14th century basilica called St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica.

As well as its ancient ruins the town is also famous for its spas and caves as well as its Christmas Market which opens from November to December in the beautifully named Velvet Caves.

16. Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo in Amsterdam first opened its gates in 1838 making it the oldest zoo in the Netherlands.

It sprawls across more than 35 acres and has 900 different species of animals many of which are housed in ornate and spacious compounds that were designed in the 19th century.

There is also an aquarium section that was built in 1882 that features diverse species like sharks, eel, and colorful tropical fish.

Make sure to look out for the tray bikes that circle the zoo selling traditional Dutch pancakes called bitterballen.

Get tickets : ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo: Entry Ticket

17. Sample some cheese in Edam

Edam cheese is famous the world over for its red hued rind and signature round shape.

Many people won’t realize however that Edam is actually not just the name of the cheese but also the place it comes from which is the pretty town of Edam.

The town is located on the water and dates back to the 12th century and has an array of cheese related sites to enjoy.

Don’t be surprised if Edam cheese looks a little different here, as it is actually sold with a yellow rind rather than a red one.

Some of the signature attractions for cheese lovers here include a large cheese market and a famous cheese-weighing hall.

18. Explore Zeeland’s Dikes

The area of Zeeland sits on the Schlede, Maas, and Rhine rivers and is covered in little islands and coves.

Most of the area sits below sea level, and for this reason needs to use dikes to guard against flooding.

The main dike project here is called Delta Works which is a series of cutting-edge dam systems which control all the water entering the area from the neighboring North Sea.

In case you are having troubling understanding the scale of the dikes here, Delta Works has been described as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

19. Visit Ridderzaal

The Hall of Knights, also known as Ridderzaal in Dutch, is located in The Hague and is part of a court complex that dates from the medieval period.

Dating from the 13th century the hall backs on to a huge courtyard covered in cobbles and this is considered to be one of the centers of Dutch politics in the modern day as this is also the spot where the Opening of Parliament ceremony is conducted every year.

Now you can also visit the Hall of Knights and take a guided tour of one of the most important buildings in Dutch history.

20. Journey to Volendam

Situated in the north of the Netherlands is Volendam which makes a great day trip if you are also visiting neighboring Amsterdam.

A small fishing village, Volendam is full of traditional Dutch delights such as wooden houses, clogs, and scenic landscapes.

Volendam is so pretty that is was painted by greats like Renoir and Picasso and it has a dainty harbor that backs on to fisherman’s houses and more canals.

21. Enjoy the Houseboat Museum

The Houseboat Museum is one of the quirkiest museums in all of Amsterdam and sits on the water on one of its pretty canals.

The boat is called Hendrika Maria and is furnished to give you a glimpse of how people have lived on these houseboats over the years.

There are also displays of how life on houseboats has changed and pictures of the canals as they would have been in the days of old.

22. Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam

Oude Haven is the Old Harbor in Rotterdam which happens to be the oldest port in the Netherlands having first started operations in 1350. Here you will find a huge number of attractions such as charming eateries and cafes as well as a selection of ancient sailing ships that give a nod to maritime history of this city.

One of the other iconic structures located on the harbor is Het Witte Huis or the White House which has the claim to fame of having been the first skyscraper in Europe.

23. Travel to the town of Delft

The cute town of Delft is nestled in between The Hague and Rotterdam and makes a great day trip.

Some of the main sights here include the Town Hall as well as the famous Nieuwe Kerk or New Church which has a tall tower that you can climb and look out over Rotterdam and The Hague.

The church also houses a well known royal burial ground where the remains of Prince William of Orange are interred.

Other attractions include the Technology Museum and the Markt which is the main traditional market that opens every Thursday.

24. Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum

Venustempel Sex Museum in Amsterdam has the claim to fame of having been the first sex museum in the world.

The museum is located in a building that dates from the 17th century and has a wide display of sex related memorabilia.

Just some of this includes an array of erotic art work as well as photographs, sculptures, and other oddities like chastity belts.

The aim of the museum is to tell the story of how sexuality has evolved over the years and is a quirky stop off on a trip to Amsterdam.

25. Explore Kasteel De Haar

Close to the city of Utrecht sits Kasteel De Haar which is actually the largest fortification in the Netherlands.

The big draw here is the stunning castle which sprawls across a 250 acre park and originally would have dated from the 14th century.

The renovated version that now stands was built in 1892 and you will find a wide collection of paintings, textiles, antiques, and furniture.

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands:

• Explore the Canals of Amsterdam
• Visit Zaanse Schans
• Stroll around the Garden of Europe
• Admire Grote Kerk
• Visit the Rijksmuseum
• Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park
• Visit the Anne Frank Museum
• Enjoy the village of Marken
• Have fun at Efteling
• Take a trip to Madurodam
• Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk
• Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum
• Have a beer at the Heineken Experience
• Explore Mauritshuis
• Visit Historic Valkenburg
• Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo
• Sample some cheese in Edam
• Explore Zeeland’s Dikes
• Visit Ridderzaal
• Journey to Volendam
• Enjoy the Houseboat Museum
• Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam
• Travel to the town of Delft
• Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum
• Explore Kasteel De Haar

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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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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Netherlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 11, 2023

The Netherlands is known everywhere as a land of windmills, canals, and tulips, and today's visitors certainly will find these among its many tourist attractions.

But along with the country's many breathtaking gardens and picturesque villages, those sightseeing here will also find the vibrant cities, like Amsterdam, filled with museums showcasing a rich heritage of artists (think Rembrandt and Van Gogh). Other places to visit include numerous medieval castles and cityscapes, along with a 13,800-acre national park, and a tide control system that's been named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World .

Given the relatively small size of The Netherlands, all these attractions and fun things to do are within a relatively compact area, and the landscape is quite flat (the highest elevation is barely a thousand feet above sea level).

Consequently, it's extremely easy to do at least a little of your sightseeing the Dutch way: by bicycle. Many of the top travel destinations and major cities in the Netherlands actively encourage the use of pedal-power and provide free bikes to explore the sights. However you choose to see the Netherlands, you're guaranteed a great time in one of the friendliest and most liberal cultures in Europe.

Be sure to plan your travel itinerary with our list of the top tourist attractions in The Netherlands.

1. Jordaan and Amsterdam's Canals

2. keukenhof, lisse, 3. rijksmuseum, amsterdam, 4. historic binnenhof, the hague, 5. anne frank house, amsterdam, 6. oude haven, rotterdam, 7. van gogh museum, amsterdam, 8. the windmills of kinderdijk, 9. de hoge veluwe national park, otterlo, 10. cathedral square, utrecht, 11. the ijsselmeer (zuiderzee), enkhuizen, 12. delta works: zeeland's spectacular dikes, 13. historic valkenburg, 14. royal delft, delft, 15. de haar castle, 16. the netherlands open air museum, best time to visit the netherlands.

Highlight : Explore Amsterdam's canals and historic neighborhoods by boat and on foot

Canals are as important a part of Amsterdam's cityscape as they are to the city of Venice, and some of the most enduring memories for any visitor are the time spent exploring the city's wonderful waterways.

While many of Amsterdam's best tourist attractions can easily be accessed by boat tour or water taxi — including most of the major museums and art galleries — nothing beats strolling along the smaller, quieter streets that line the waterways.

Particularly charming is the Jordaan, a neighborhood built in the early 1600s to house workers and immigrants drawn here for the city's religious tolerance. Along with its small canal-side houses, look for the neighborhood's many "hofjes," the quaint inner courtyards hidden behind the buildings.

Another photo-worthy neighborhood is the Grachtengordel , with its many small bridges and quaint 17th-century homes. You'll be rewarded as you explore these 400-year-old streets with examples of beautiful architecture, small boutique shops, cafés, and gardens. Be sure to look out for the many houseboats moored along the canals.

Just a 10-minute stroll away is Dam Square, a must-visit when in Amsterdam. In addition to its numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops this vast public square is home to some of the city's most-visited tourist attractions. These include the spectacular Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace); the attractive New Church (Nieuwe Kerk); and the country's most important war memorial, the National Memorial Statue .

Highlight : Europe's largest collection of tulips with miles of walking trails and hot houses

Think of the Netherlands, and you'll inevitably think of tulips, the country's most popular flower. And one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands showcases these and other spring bulbs in spectacular abundance. Given its handy location relative to Amsterdam — it's a 45-minute drive away, or just under an hour by public transit — it makes for a fun and easy day trip from the country's largest city.

Keukenhof, otherwise known as the "Garden of Europe," is located on the outskirts of the town of Lisse in what's widely considered the "bulb belt" of the Netherlands. The largest public garden in the world, it boasts more than 70 acres of what was once the former kitchen (or "keuken") garden of a large country estate, Keukenhof displays more than 700 varieties of tulips, which are at their height in April and May.

But thanks to its massive commercial hot houses, the display continues almost year-round. In these, you'll see endless rows of flowering tulips, along with thousands of hyacinths, crocuses, and daffodils.

Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands

Highlight : A vast collection of famous artworks by artists including Rembrandt and Van Gogh

The spectacular Rijksmuseum , aka the National Museum, in Amsterdam's Museumplein (Museum Square) has been collecting rare art and antiquities since 1809. Not surprisingly, its extensive collection today amounts to nearly seven million works of art, including 5,000 paintings in more than 250 rooms, as well as a vast library with some 35,000 books.

Apart from its unique collection of old masters, this spectacular museum offers an exhaustive account of the development of art and culture in The Netherlands and is especially rich in traditional Dutch handicrafts, medieval sculpture, and modern art. Be prepared to spend the best part of a day — or longer — exploring this museum's endless treasures.

If you've time to squeeze a little more Rembrandt into your Amsterdam travel itinerary, here's a must-visit for you: the Rembrandt House Museum , located in the city's historic Jewish Quarter. Many of his best-known works were painted during the 20 years the great artist spent here, with some still recognizable scenes from the neighborhood.

The house remains much as it would have been during Rembrandt's life (guided tours are available). You can enhance your experience by booking a stay close by at Luxury Suites Amsterdam , located just steps away from the museum and one of the best places to stay in Amsterdam for those who enjoy luxury accommodations.

Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Historic capital of the Netherlands with well-preserved architecture and parliament

Known the world over as the location of the International Court of Justice, The Hague (Den Haag) is also the political center of The Netherlands. It's here the country's government does their work, and where you'll find the home of the Dutch Royal Family in Noordeinde Palace.

The Hague also makes for an excellent travel destination for visitors wanting to get a taste of the country's rich history. Whether you're staying here for a few days or visiting as a day trip from Amsterdam , start your exploration in the city's historic Binnenhof district. Literally translated as the "Inner Court," the Binnenhof dates back as far as 1250 CE. It's the oldest part of the city and a delight to explore on foot.

Set around a central courtyard, the attractive older buildings here once housed the country's ruling classes and have been remarkably well-preserved. The crown jewel here is the Knights' Hall (Ridderzaal). Built in the 13th century, this imposing castle-like building with its twin towers is still in use for government events, including the opening of parliament every September. Highlights include the Gothic hall with its stained-glass windows and wood-beamed ceiling.

Address: 2513 AA Den Haag, Netherlands

Highlight : Hiding place of Anne Frank where she wrote her famous diary during WWII

The Anne Frank House is a must-see when in Amsterdam. On Prinsengracht , in the home where Anne's family hid for much of WWII (they were Jewish refugees from Frankfurt), is where this remarkable girl wrote her famous diary. Although she died just two months before the war ended, her legacy lives on through her words, which have since been translated into 51 languages.

The back of the fully-restored house where the Frank family had their hiding place has been kept in its original state as much as possible and is a poignant monument to a tragic slice of world history and a brave young woman who continues to inspire people around the globe.

A word of caution: tickets for this must-see attraction do sell out, so be sure to reserve yours online well ahead of time. And if you're visiting in warmer weather — spring and summer are widely considered some of the best times to visit Amsterdam — be sure to allow time to explore the surrounding area with its charming old canals on foot.

Address: Prinsengracht 263-267, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : Europe's largest port with a historic harbor area, vessels, and museums

Located an easy one-hour train ride from Amsterdam, the port city of Rotterdam is well worth visiting for its well-preserved Old Harbour, or Oude Haven. The city has a long and rich maritime history thanks largely to its location on the Nieuwe Maas, an arm of the Rhine River, and its proximity to the English Channel.

Part of Rotterdam's superb Maritime District, Oude Haven is ideal for those who enjoy seeing the sights on foot. The harbor is chock-full of old houseboats and sailing ships, many of them on display at the Maritime Museum Rotterdam .

In addition to the 20 or so historic vessels on display in the water, a variety of indoor displays can also be enjoyed, including a replica of a vessel dating back over 2,000 years.

Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Highlights : One of the world's top art museums focusing on the work of Vincent Van Gogh

As befits one of the world's greatest artists, the spectacular Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is ranked an impressive #2 in a leading list of the top art museums globally, attracting almost 1.5 million visitors each year.

Home to the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings — many donated by the artist's family — this impressive gallery and museum was specially built to showcase the more than 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters in its vast collection.

Works by his contemporaries are also on display. A highlight is participating in the museum's new "Meet Vincent Van Gogh Experience," which offers a fascinating, high-tech, interactive look at the artist's life and times, as well as his best-known work.

If the city's excellent museums are your priority, you may in fact want to consider visiting them off-season during the quieter, cooler times of year. Given that both these popular attractions are things to do indoors and easy to get to via the city's excellent public transit, it's easy to keep warm, and the city's climate is relatively mild, even in winter.

Address: Museumplein 6, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Highlight : The largest collection of preserved historic windmills in the Netherlands

On the River Noord between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the famous village of Kinderdijk ("Children's Dike"), which takes its name from an incident during the St. Elizabeth's Day flood of 1421 after a child's cradle had been stranded on the dike.

The big draw these days are the fantastically preserved 18th-century windmills. Now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the 19 Kinderdijk windmills, built between 1722 and 1761, are the largest surviving concentration of windmills in the Netherlands.

Originally used to drain the fenlands, these majestic buildings with their impressive 92-foot sails are open to the public from April to October, including special Mill Days when the sails are set in motion. These picturesque windmills make for a fun excursion for those based in Rotterdam during their Netherlands stay.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Rotterdam & Easy Day Trips

Highlights : Vast national park with hiking, biking, wildlife, horseback riding, and camping

You may be surprised to learn that the Netherlands, a relatively small country, boasts one of the world's most diverse national park programs. The largest is De Hoge Veluwe National Park (Nationaal Park De Hoge Veluwe), between Arnhem and Apeldoorn, rightly considered one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands for outdoor enthusiasts .

Covering nearly 13,800 acres, this national park is the largest continuous nature reserve in the country, as well as being one of the most popular day trip destinations for locals and visitors alike. Featuring dense woodlands in the north, as well as a fascinating sculpture park, the area was once a country estate and hunting reserve, and to this day is home to many red and roe deer.

The best-preserved part of the park encompasses an area of dramatic dunes interspersed with heath and woodland and interrupted in the south and east by moraines up to 100 meters high. It's also a popular area for bird-watching, as well as hiking and biking (use of bikes is free to visitors).

The highlight of this beautiful park for many — and the reason many people choose to come here — is the outstanding Kröller-Müller Museum (Rijksmuseum Kröller-Müller), housing the world's second-largest collection of works by Van Gogh. In addition, the collections include Impressionist and Expressionist paintings by Cézanne, Manet, Monet, and Renoir. Outdoors, one of Europe's largest sculpture gardens shows works by Rodin, Hepworth, Dubuffet, and others.

Address: Houtkampweg 6, Otterlo, Netherlands

• Read More: Exploring De Hoge Veluwe National Park: A Visitor's Guide

Highlights : Pedestrian-friendly old city center, cathedral tower with views, and museums

A popular tourist destination for its many fine historic buildings, the Dutch city of Utrecht should definitely be included on your Netherlands travel itinerary.

Start your exploration of this pedestrian-friendly city in Cathedral Square. The Domplein, as it's known locally, is the site of St. Martin's Cathedral, or Dom Church (Domkerk). Although founded in 1254, much of what you see dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.

You'll also want to visit the Domtoren , a surviving stand-alone church tower built in the 1300s that rises high above the surrounding buildings. Be sure to make the climb up to the viewing platforms for its superb views over Utrecht. Although there are 465 steps to climb, the guided tour that comes with the climb is an excellent introduction to the city's rich history.

Address: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht, Netherlands

Highlights : Beautiful lake region with historic waterways, quaint villages, and cultural attractions

Among the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands are the small hamlets along the Ijsselmeer (Lake Ijssel), the freshwater lake that resulted from the closing of the sea entrance to the Zuider Zee. These towns flourished during Amsterdam's Golden Age, when they had access to the Atlantic and prospered as fishing and trade centers, but lost importance as the harbors silted up.

Today, they're among the most photographed tourist attractions in the country. Time seems to have stood still for the fishing village of Marken and the seaports of Volendam and Enkhuizen , where many of the colorful houses have become museums and shops.

Enkhuizen has preserved many of its buildings and seafaring industries in the open-air Zuiderzee Museum , where the cultural heritage and maritime history of the old Zuiderzee region is preserved. Here, you can see craftsmen at work learning old maritime skills. In Volendam's harbor, you can see a collection of colorful old wooden boats.

Address: Wierdijk 12 - 22, Enkhuizen, Netherlands

Highlights : Modern dike system with dams, canals, and visitor center

Incorporating the deltas of the Rhine, the Maas, and the Schelde Rivers, Zeeland includes the numerous islands and peninsulas of the southwestern section of the Netherlands. Much of this area of recently formed land is below sea level and therefore reliant upon impressive dikes, as well as modern flood prevention techniques.

As you travel the area, you'll see evidence of the mega-engineering project known as the Delta Works . These massive structures — basically hi-tech dams — can control how much water enters the area's key estuaries from the North Sea.

Consisting of dams, sluices, locks, dikes, and storm-surge barriers, this awe-inspiring US$7 billion project has been declared one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Highlights : Medieval village with preserved buildings, castle ruins, and large spa complex

For those looking for a little ancient history, the Netherlands is not without its own medieval (and earlier) attractions. Romantic little Valkenburg, in the picturesque Geul Valley, boasts the country's only hilltop castle,. Long a popular holiday resort, the town's other big draws are its many caves and the spa facilities at Thermae 2000 , one of the largest such establishments in the Netherlands.

In addition to the ruins of the 12th-century castle on Dwingelrots (Castle Rock), there's also the interesting 14th-century St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica . Another highlight is the town's famous Christmas Market (mid-November to December 23rd) held in the Velvet Caves, the maze of old passageways leading to and from the castle.

Highlight : Home of the famous Royal Delft pottery with factory tours and shopping

Located between the cities of The Hague and Rotterdam (and therefore easy to get to), Delft is known the world over for its famous blue and white porcelain products. Delftware, as it's usually known, has adorned shelves and dining rooms the world over since the 1600s, and remains as popular today as it was back then.

Known in English as Royal Delft , the original manufacturer, Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles N.V., has been around since 1653 and offers a variety of fun experiences for visitors.

In addition to informative tours of the factory, including a chance to see talented artisans hand painting pottery, you can visit the factory's vast collection of Delftware, and even finish up with a posh afternoon tea experience in the on-site tea room.

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands

Highlights : Fairytale castle with huge grounds, hiking trails, and guided tours

Near the lovely old city of Utrecht, the fourth largest in the Netherlands, De Haar Castle (Kasteel De Haar) is the largest fortification in the country.

This spectacular castle, built by the famous Dutch architect PJH Cuypers, required so much land (it sits on a spectacular 250-acre park) that the entire village of Haarzuilens had to be relocated to accommodate it. While the original castle site was established in the 14th century, this newer structure dates from 1892 and is well worth taking the time to explore.

Inside, you'll be rewarded with impressive collections of antiques, furniture, paintings, and tapestries, but it's the gardens that really draw the crowds — along with the castle's fairy-tale looks.

Highlights : Living history museum with costumed interpreters, cultural events, and interactive workshops

The city of Arnhem is well worth including on your Netherlands travel itinerary. Famous for its location on a branch of the Rhine River and the battles that ensued here during WWII, it's here you'll find the Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum).

This family-friendly attraction has provided visitors with a fascinating look at traditional Dutch lifestyles for well over 100 years, with costumed guides offering unique insights into cultural, farming, and manufacturing aspects of life up to the mechanization of the 1900s.

Authentic period homes, workshops, and businesses offer hands-on opportunities to learn about and appreciate once-common practices, from fishing to baking and even clog making. Other highlights include a still-operating vintage tram, cultural events and concerts, and fun kids' programs.

Address: Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands

As one of the most visited countries in Europe, the Netherlands can get pretty busy during the peak summer months, especially in July when the schools break up.

The spring shoulder months of April and May are a great time to visit Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands, with many of the country's best parks and gardens bursting into life with an abundance of greenery and flowers (tulips are everywhere in the Netherlands!).

More on Netherlands

3 Towns In Holland To Visit Besides Amsterdam

I know this is a controversial take, but Europe is played out. (With the exception of the U.K. coastal Italy, Portugal, Scandinavian and Mediterranean countries – sorry not sorry!) I will now be adding Amsterdam and other parts of Holland to that “exceptions” list. The country has a lot of charm. Interacting with people can be daunting since the Dutch said to be stern and brut, but I think they’re similar to New Yorkers in some ways. They may seem a bit cold on the surface, but some people are willing to point you in the direction of the station when you look lost. (Yes, that happened, and I received help unprompted.)

Weesp is a town that is now technically considered part of Amsterdam, which defeats the purpose of the title, but bear with me! By car, It is only ~30 minutes away from Amsterdam, but it is so far removed from the chaoticness of the city. It felt very suburban and calm in a uniquely European way.

Here is where I had my first try of bitterballen; a Dutch meat-based snack, made by making a very thick stew thickened with roux and beef stock and loaded with meat, refrigerating the stew until it firms, and then rolling the thick mixture into balls which then get breaded and fried ( Wikipedia .) My friend and I walked into a bar with a group of men enjoying each other’s company. The owner of the bar had just served the group bitterballen and they generously offered both of us a taste. Before taking a bite, they kindly said “take care” to warn us how hot the snack was. They were right – the round balls were right out of the fryer and scalding. In my opinion, bitterballen is better when eaten hot due to its soup-ish origins. Additionally, it’s solid as a drunk food, which is probably why it is served at virtually any bar, but can become overwhelming when you eat more than 2 while completely sober.

Nijmegen/Wijchen

Nijmegen is touted to be one of the oldest towns in The Netherlands. At least that’s what some people say. Others argue that there are other towns that claim to be the oldest in the country.

In Nijmegen, there is a castle-like structure called Valkhofvereniging. It was said an emperor called Fredrik Barbarossa built it in 1155. A sign near the castle explains, “material[s] used from the castle of Charlemagne which stood on [its] spot” was used in its construction. (Fun fact: the chapel was named after Charlemagne and is dedicated to St. Nicholas.)

Stichting Museum Kasteel (seen on the left) is a castle-turned-museum in Wijchen. The tour guide imparted a lot of knowledge about the castle to us. Between the 9th and 12th centuries, the castle probably started as a hall tower. Today, it’s surrounded by a moat and in its latest iteration after a fire in 1906.

I wish I had more time in Lisse, but I spent my time well in its Keukenhof Tulip Garden. When you travel to The Netherlands, chances are one of the main attractions you’ll be told about are the country’s beautiful tulips. I was lucky enough to visit during the last week of the season. A number of the tulips were still holding on, while others were dead or beheaded. (Tulips are beheaded at the end of the season in order to have nutrients transferred to the bulb, which will create a new cluster of bulbs for the next season – the more you know!)

The Keukenhof grounds, which were about 2 hours away by train from Amsterdam, were huge! My friend and I spent 3 hours there. We ate frites (or chips/fries) and strawberries covered in whipped cream. We also searched tirelessly for a seemingly nonexistent petting zoo! Aside from the invisible petting zoo, we got to see a windmill (finally) up close and personal. As well as ride a boat in the canals dividing massive tulip fields – most of which were beheaded.

The post 3 Towns In Holland To Visit Besides Amsterdam appeared first on The Last Debutante .

• 7 Best Small Towns to Retire in Michigan in 2024

Many seniors imagine spending their golden years sipping cocktails while enjoying waterfront views, surrounded by forests and charming little downtowns with boutique shops, fine dining, and a vibrant community. Popular towns offering those features in California , Oregon , Washington , and Florida are quickly pricing out many new retirees. Unless one was born in the Midwest , they might not consider it an ideal retirement location, however many American retirees are rethinking their view of “Middle America” and discovering the exceptional beauty of states like Michigan with its majestic lakes, islands, forests, and lush rolling hills.

There are an abundance of small towns throughout the state that are perfect for seniors, like Petoskey with its Victorian-style cottages, Frankenmuth known for its Bavarian architecture, Holland with its famous Tulip Time Festival, Traverse City enveloped by cherry orchards and vineyards, Charlevoix nestled between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix , Marquette along the shores of Lake Superior and St. Joseph with its stunning beaches.

The town of Petoskey lies along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay and offers views of gentle hills, forests, and stunning waterfront. The small town was founded in the late 1800s and is known for its lovely Victorian-style cottages, brick-paved sidewalks, and gas lamps. The population of the town is 5,865 and nearly 20% are over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $256,400, making it comfortably affordable for retirees (Census.gov). According to US News Health, McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital is high performing. The downtown has a dense suburban feel, and most residents are homeowners. Local landmarks and attractions include the Petoskey State Park with its views of Little Traverse Bay and its outdoor activities of hiking, picnicking, and swimming. Gaslight Shopping District boasts quaint boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, such as Joie de Vie Antiques and Palette Bistro. The Bay View Association is not to be missed for the walking tours of the beautiful historic homes.

Frankenmuth

Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth has become a popular destination for retirees in the Midwest. Located on the Cass River , the town of Frankenmuth is enveloped by verdant farmlands and is known for its European -themed architecture. The downtown is marked by its Bavarian-style homes and half-timbered buildings, flower window boxes and cobblestone streets. Settled in the mid-1800s by Germans, the town has kept that European heritage alive. The population is roughly 5,153 with 29% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $244,300, making it an affordable option for those on a fixed income (Census.gov). Covenant HealthCare Cooper Hospital is nearby and well regarded according to US News Health. Popular landmarks are the Bavarian Inn, a restaurant with authentic German cuisine and atmosphere. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is the world’s largest Christmas store and a tourist attraction. In April there’s the annual Zehnder’s Ragtime Festival that draws visitors from all over the US and Canada to hear Ragtime music performed. The Bavarian Blacksmith Experience allows visitors to forge their own dagger, knife, wand, rune pendant or season piece, under the watchful supervision of experienced blacksmiths. A great activity for the grandkids!

Nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Holland is known for its beaches, sand dunes and tulip fields. The downtown with its gabled roofs and colorful facades is shaped by its Dutch architecture, shops, and cafes. Examples include Apothecary Gift Shop and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant. Known for its Tulip Time Festival, the town has a population of 34,006 and boasts a healthy senior population with nearly 17% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $212,900, making it exceptionally affordable for our silver-haired friends (Census.gov). US News Health gives high marks to Holland Hospital. Must-see landmarks include Windmill Island Gardens, with their 251-year-old working Dutch windmill. Holland State Park with its views of Lake Michigan, Big Red Lighthouse, and its sandy beaches and picnic areas.

Traverse City

Set along the southern end of the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is characterized by its cherry orchards, rolling hills and vineyards. The downtown features a mix of neoclassical, modern and Victorian architecture. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons was once a historic asylum and is now the vibrant hub of shops, cafes and walking trails. Clinch Park is another landmark worth exploring with its beach, marina and walking trails. The population of 15,702 has those over 65 making up roughly 23%. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is reasonable for retirees at $336,900 (Census.gov). US News Health gives a tip of the hat to Munson Medical Center. The town is friendly, lively, and perfect for spending one’s golden years.

The town of Charlevoix is located between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan and features rolling hills, sandy beaches, and striking sunsets. The downtown is admired for its “Charlevoix stone” buildings, stylish architecture, and waterfront views. Notable landmarks include Charlevoix South Pier Light Statins, Mushroom Houses, which were designed by Earl Young and are fairytale-like and Beaver Island, the largest island in Lake Michigan. The population of the town is 26,159 with nearly 28% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $220,000, offering exceptional affordability for those planning to retire (Census.gov). US News Health gives Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital top marks.

Gracing the banks of Lake Superior, Marquette is noted for its rugged shoreline, dense forests, and rocky cliffs. The downtown offers gorgeous lake views, which serves as the backdrop for the town’s mixed historic, modern architecture, brick buildings and colorful storefronts. Presque Isle Park is a landmark that provides views of Lake Superior, walking trails and picnic areas. Then there is Marquette Harbor Light, a historic lighthouse. The population of Marquette is 20,786 with those over 65 making up nearly 16%. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $231,500, which is affordable for those looking to retire. According to CNN Money and US News Health Marquette General Health System is among the nation’s top cardiovascular hospitals, which is important for the aged.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, St. Joseph is blessed by its sandy beaches, rolling dunes and scenic lake views. The downtown is marked by its Victorian-style and neoclassical buildings and admired for its tree-lined streets and waterfront dining and shopping. Landmarks to see are Silver Beach County Park, with its historic carousel, picnic areas and views of the lake. St. Joseph North Pier Inner and Outer Lights feature historic lighthouses at the entrance to the St. Joseph River . The Krasl Art Center is known for its contemporary art exhibits, outdoor sculptures and is considered the heart of the town. The population of St. Joseph is 7,768 with nearly 23% over the age of 65. The crime rates are low, and the median home price is $250,900, which is a steal, given the beauty and waterfront living that this small town has to offer those in their sunset years (Census.gov). Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital near St. Joseph is well ranked according to US News Health.

Consider Retiring to Michigan

It is time for seniors to rethink their retirement options and consider the Midwest and states like Michigan with its stunning natural beauties, charming, lively, but safe towns and the easy access to world-class healthcare. Come discover all Michigan has to offer retirees!

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