Dreaming of canals, culture, and countryside? Head to the Netherlands! I like the way the Netherlands combines history and modern flair with ease. This compact yet vibrant country offers charming cities, world-class museums, windmill-dotted landscapes, and colorful tulip fields. You can go cycling through Amsterdam, explore medieval towns, or cruise down a river lined with quaint villages.
Netherlands Highlights:
- For Art Lovers: Tour the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam – See works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh in the heart of the capital.
- For Photographers: Visit the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse to see fields of tulips and vibrant spring blooms (open March–May).
- For Cyclists: Explore the country via scenic bike routes , incouding towns, dunes, and farmlands
- For History Buffs: Walk along the historic streets of Utrecht and Haarlem where you'll see canals, cathedrals, and centuries-old architecture.
- For Architecture Fans: Marvel at Rotterdam’s Cube Houses and modern skyline
Best Time to Visit the Netherlands
The best time to visit is from April to October. Spring offers blooming tulip fields and mild temperatures. I like visiting in the summer because of all the outdoor festivals.
How to Get to the Netherlands
- By Air: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the main international gateway and one of Europe’s busiest
- By Train: High-speed rail connects the Netherlands to major cities in Europe
- By Car: Major highways link the Netherlands to the rest of Europe
Where to Stay in the Netherlands
- Recommended for First-Time Visitors: Hotel Estherea (Amsterdam) sits on a quiet canal near major sights.
- For Budget Travelers: Stayokay Hostels has locations in Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and more.
Best Things to Do in the Netherlands
Jump to a Spot...
- • For families: Attractiepark Slagharen
- • For art lovers: Van Gogh Museum
- • For animal lovers: Diergaarde Blijdorp
- • For fantasy lovers: Efteling
- • For photographers: Erasmusbrug
- • For puzzle fans: Escher Museum
- • For interactive museum fans: Heineken Experience
- • For cyclists and nature lovers: Hoge Veluwe National Park
- • For curious travelers: Hungry Birds, Amsterdam Street Food Tours
- • For romantics: Jordaan