Whether you’re into art, architecture or postcard-perfect landscapes, you’ll find it in The Netherlands. Small but mighty, the country will enchant you with its world-class museums, wooden windmills and an unabashed love for cafes, tulips and bicycles.
Things to do in Netherlands
Masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer helped establish The Netherlands as an art epicentre. You’ll find some of the country’s most treasured paintings, including masterpieces like “The Night Watch”, at Rijksmuseum Amsterdam. Switch gears at the Stedelijk Museum. Alongside works by Dutch Masters, you’ll see contemporary pieces by Picasso, Rothko and Matisse.
Rent a bike and explore the Dutch countryside on two wheels. Whether you’re based in a major city or a chocolate-box town, you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by fields filled with tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Pedal past centuries-old wooden windmills and cruise along scenic canals. Head to the coast for beautiful North Sea scenery. Wherever you cycle, the flat landscapes are ideal for beginners.
The idyllic village of Giethoorn feels like stepping into a postcard. It’s nicknamed the Venice of the Netherlands and criss-crossed with picturesque canals. Wander along lanes lined with thatched-roof cottages and enjoy lunch at adorable cafes.
The long, gold-sand beach at Scheveningen is perfect for sunbathing. Bask in the sunshine, swim in the North Sea and stroll along the beachside promenade lined with cafes. Prefer a quieter beach scene? Head to Bloemendaal aan Zee, a laid-back seaside resort backed by grass-covered dunes
Cobbled streets and grand historic buildings lend plenty of Dutch charm to Haarlem. Gothic-style Grote Kerk van St Bavo soars over the city and is topped with an enormous steeple. The magnificent organ features thousands of pipes and was played by maestros like Mozart and Handel.
The Dutch are passionate about their café culture. Everywhere you go, you’ll see cafes spilling onto streets, squares and canals. These aren’t your usual cafes though. In addition to tea and coffee, you can enjoy Dutch-style beer and hearty meals.
Getting around Netherlands
Bikes are the preferred mode of transport in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Trains are a fast and affordable way to travel between towns and cities. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore The Netherlands at your own pace. Find major airports in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.