What is not to love about the Netherlands? The tulip fields, the canals, and the windmills are among the most prominent features about the Netherlands. If you are looking to have the ultimate vacation in Europe, there is no way you shouldn’t consider the Netherlands as one of the must-visit countries. However, the Netherlands is loaded with a myriad of places that you may find it difficult to decide which places are worth visiting. You have come to the right place because if you read on, you can know more about the best places to visit in the Netherlands. Plan your itinerary right away after reading through to enjoy your time in the Netherlands.
1. Nijmegen
Situated in the province of Gelderland along Waal River, Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands. As the oldest city in the country, Nijmegen, therefore, is rich in history. As soon as you set foot in Nijmegen, find your way to Kronenburgerpark, which is located right in the heart of the city. Stroll along the park and you will get to the landmark tower in the center of the park, which shows you the remains of the medieval walls. Then, stop by Saint Stephen’s Church, the oldest and largest church in Nijmegen. The altar, the chandelier, and the walls are among the most beautiful features of the medieval church from the 18th century.
2. Amsterdam (from USD 65.77)
Of course, it would be impossible to visit the Netherlands without spending a couple of days in the capital city Amsterdam. There are just too many interesting attractions to see in Amsterdam. It would be nice to make a visit to Van Gogh Museum to enjoy the stunning collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s artworks throughout his life. You need to also make a stop at Anne Frank House that is located on the Prinsengracht canal in central Amsterdam. Make sure to spend time also at Dam Square, the most important square in the city. This is where you can enjoy some of the best landmarks of Amsterdam, such as the Royal Palace, War Memorial, and Nieuwe Kerk.
Amsterdam: City Card with Free Entrance & Public Transport
Duration: 1.0 day
3. Hoge Verluwe National Park
Situated in the province of Gelderland, Hoge Verluwe National Park is going to please your eyes and give you peace and tranquility as soon as you reach the entrance. The national park features sand dunes, woodlands, and heathlands. You can either take a walk or ride a bike to explore this pretty park.
Kröller-Müller Museum and Hoge Veluwe National Park Day Tour - Amsterdam, The Netherlands - Klook
Duration: 9hrsDuration
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4. The Hague (from USD 26.31)
If you have no idea what The Hague is, it is a city that is situated in Western Netherlands that plays an important role because it is home to the royal family and serves as the seat of the Dutch government. As you are exploring The Hague, you will also discover other significant buildings such as the UN’s International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court.
The Hague: City Discovery Game
Duration: 2.0 hour
5. Alkmaar (from USD 32.89)
Alkmaar is one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands for those who are interested in the local culture. As one of the oldest and traditional cities, Alkmaar is particulary famous for its traditional cheese market. It feels like heaven once you reach the cheese market. Buy as many cheeses as you want so you will not have regrets once you leave the city. The medieval city center with its charming city streets is also a popular point of interest in Alkmaar.
Alkmaar: 2-Hour Tour and Cheese Market Visit
Duration: 2.0 hour
6. Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
Nationaal Park De Biesbosch is definitely a must-visit attraction, especially if you are a nature lover. Reconnect with nature as you go strolling, sailing, or cycling through the rivers and creeks that come in various sizes. The national park is one of the largest in the Netherlands and if you are lucky, you will be greeted by beavers while you are enjoying your time.
Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
Address: Netherlands
Website: Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
7. Utrecht (from USD 8.76)
Known to be the religious hub in the Netherlands, Utrecht is a medieval old town that appeals to tourists through its charming canals and Christian monuments and churches. You cannot miss the iconic landmark of Utrecht Domtoren that can be found opposite Gothic Cathedral of St. Martin on central Domplein Square. Domtoren is a stunning bell tower from the 14th century that offers the sweeping views of the city. Museum Speelklok is another must-visit attraction. In this museum, you can gain insights into the history of music and musical instruments that play automatically.
Utrecht Outdoor Escape Game: The Monster Mystery
Duration: 1.5 hour
8. Arnhem
Nestled along the Nederrijn and Sint-Jansbeek rivers, Arnhem in the eastern part of Netherlands will amaze you with attractions that include a myriad of parks, numerous museums, and a zoo. Visit Burgers’ Zoo, one of the biggest zoos in the Netherlands, and meet face-to-face with penguins, various fish species, and rhinos. It is also interesting to visit Netherlands Open Air Museum that lets you admire a display of traditional buildings in outdoor area.
9. Eindhoven
You will be surprised when you learn the fact that Eindhoven is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands because the city does not look old at all. Instead, you will see a myriad of modern buildings with cutting-edge design throughout the city. No wonder, because Eindhoven is the design and technology hub in the Netherlands. Philips Electronics came from this city. That’s why you need to stop by Philips Museum to learn about the development of Philips products throughout the years. DAF Museum is another interesting museum to visit as it boasts a collection of trucks and automobiles.
10. Venlo
Visit Venlo, a city that is located adjacent to the border with Germany, for a more beautiful vacation in the Netherlands. Like many other cities in the Netherlands, Venlo offers plenty of museums, parks, and Gothic churches throughout. Visit Limburgs Museum to observe visual art from the surrounding regions as well as relics from the Stone Age. Have fun in Toverland, an amusement park that is loaded with adrenaline-pumping rides and spectacular shows. Take your kids to Spielpark Klein Zwisterland for an unforgettable adventure in themed playgrounds.
11. Maastricht
Enjoy the unique scene of Maastricht, a university city that is known for its vibrant culture, laid-back atmosphere, and architectural gems from the medieval era. Admire a stunning collection of religious artworks by making a visit to Romanesque Basilica of St. Servatius. You need to also make a stop at Bonnefantenmuseum, a fine art museum that is located on the banks of the Maas River.
12. Edam
Situated in the province of North Holland, Edam is probably most famous for its cheese products that have been exported to the neighborhood countries since the Golden Age. Make a stop at Edams Museum once you reach the town to gain insights into the history, lifestyle, and culture of Edam. The museum showcases exhibits related to paintings, objects, and maps that will help you understand about the local customs of the people of Edam. Fort near Edam is another point of attraction to be visited. The military fortress is surrounded by a moat and promises the spectacular views of the countryside and the nearby harbor.
13. Zwolle
Located in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands, Zwolle can be reached easily and quickly from Apeldoorn and Enschede. Serving as the capital of Overijssel, Zwolle boasts plenty of museums, churches, and parks. Find your way to Museum de Fundatie to enjoy a collection of visual arts. Other than the art collections, the museum will also amaze you with its magnificent 19th-century palace architecture. Sassenpoort is another must-visit attraction. Built in 1409, Sassenpoort is a gatehouse in the city wall of Zwolle and has been listed as one of the Top 100 Heritage Sites from the Netherlands. To enjoy some magical time with your loved ones, spend the whole day at Dino Land Zwolle. The playground features all things dinosaur and offers plenty of activities that can be enjoyed indoor and outdoor.
14. Thorn
Sitting along the rivers of Meuse and Witbeek, Thorn has a popular nickname “the white village” because when you are in the center of the town, you can see a myriad of brick houses that are all white. In addition to old white houses, Thorn is also known for its monumental buildings. If you decide to make a stop in Thorn, be sure to visit Abdijkerk Thorn, a monastery church with an imposing structure. The church was built through centuries and comprised of different stages of construction, with the oldest construction completed in the 10th century. You need to also make a visit to Gemeentemuseum Land van Thor. The museum will help you understand more about the history of the town through its collection of historic objects and excavations.
15. Lisse
There are a lot of reasons to visit Lisse, a small town that is situated in southwest of Amsterdam. You will not be able to resist the beauty of spring-flowering bulbs that can be enjoyed at Keukenhof Garden. You need to also make a quick stop at Keukenhof Castle, a 17th-century castle that displays a striking beauty in the middle of a lush garden.
16. Terschelling
Welcome to Terschelling, the second largest island of the West Frisian Islands. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with the oldest lighthouse in the Netherlands called Brandaris. Brandaris Lighthouse, with its striking architecture, has been welcoming visitors since 1594. Terschelling is also famous for its beaches and bird-watching activities that can be done from the Des Boschplaat nature reserve.
17. Friesland
Set in the west of Groningen, Friesland, as a province, comprises some of the most breathtaking villages, towns, and cities in the country. Leeuwarden, for example, the capital of Friesland, is known for its architectural gems which originated from the Middle Ages and Renaissance era. The most famous landmark of Leeuwarden is Odehove Tower that completed its construction back in the 16th century. Dokkum is another town that is worth visiting in Friesland, especially during summertime when you can see the bloom of thousands of tulips in the gardens throughout.
18. Volendam
Last but not least is Volendam, a beautiful Dutch town that sits along Markermeer Lake. Once you get to Volendam, there are hundreds of colorful wooden houses that are ready to embrace your presence. You will also see many fishing boats in the harbor and if you are fond of seafood, Volendam has the best seafood restaurants in the Netherlands. While in Volendam, make sure to make a stop at Volendam Museum and let yourself enjoy some time appreciating art as you browse through collections of poetry, sculptures, and paintings ranging from the 1800s to the present day.
19. Haarlem (from USD 20.0)
Situated just outside of Amsterdam, Haarlem is a charming city that has been captivating a lot of tourists’ hearts through its medieval character of gabled houses and cobblestone streets. In addition, Haarlem is also famous for its art museums scattered throughout, as well as tulip gardens and almshouses. To enjoy many attractions of Haarlem at once, it is best to take a boat cruise. Must-visit attractions of Haarlem include Jopen Church, Central Station, and Teylers Museum.
Haarlem: 50 minutes Boat Cruise
Duration: 50 minutes
20. Giethoorn (from USD 88.0)
As soon as you arrive in Giethoorn by taking a boat ride, you are going to see a uniquely different view from many of the other cities in the Netherlands. The town is mostly car-free and all you will see when you spend time here is people riding bikes and having boat rides. You will also be amazed by the thatched-roof houses that have existed in the town for centuries.
Giethoorn and Enclosing Dike Day Trip from Amsterdam with Boat Tour
Duration: 9 hours
21. Rotterdam (from USD 18.36)
One of the largest ports in the world as well as the second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is surely hard to resist. One of the best ways to enjoy Rotterdam is by boarding a cruise ship so that you can see the harbors, docks, and transshipping of containers in a close range. After leaving the cruise ship, you can then visit an attraction such as Rotterdam Zoo, which is one of the best in the Netherlands. Seal shows, bird shows, and some other shows are going to stun you. Then, Kralingse Wood makes a nice place to relax. It is one of the biggest parks in the city and it features a beautiful lake called Kralingse Lake.
Rotterdam: Harbour Boat Tour
Duration: 75.0 minute
22. Kinderdijk (from USD 85.26)
The most prominent feature about Kinderdijk are its 18th-century windmills that can be found scattered throughout the village. Everywhere you look, there will always be a windmill. As such, Kinderdijk is the perfect place for you to learn a little bit about how the windmills have contributed to the water management system of the country for centuries. Museummolen Blokweer and Kinderdijk molens are also windmill-related spots you should not miss.
World Heritage Kinderdijk Windmills Tour
Duration: 6 hour
23. Delft (from USD 64.0)
You may have heard Delft because it is where Delftware, the famous blue-and-white hand-painted pottery, is based from. Once you reach Delft, you should spare time to visit Museum Prinsenhof Delft, one of the most beautiful palaces in Delft. It used to be a monastery during the Middle Ages. Then, it became a residential building for William the Silent, a Protestant revolt hero, before he was murdered. Now, it has become one of the most popular attractions in Delft. You need to also make a stop at Nieuwe Church, a Protestant church with the mausoleum of William the Silent inside. The church is located on Delft Market Square, and you can also visit other popular attractions on the square such as City Hall.
Delft, The Hague and Madurodam: Half-Day Tour
Duration: 6 hour
24. Breda (from USD 30.37)
Nestled in the southern part of the Netherlands, Breda is popular for its government buildings, monuments, and castles, among other attractions. The Royal Military Academy, for example, is one of the most important landmarks in Breda as it serves as the academy center for the Dutch Air Force, the Dutch Army, and the Royal Marechaussee. Breda Castle is another attraction that plays an important role in the history of Breda. The Spaniards used to own the castle until it was taken back by the Dutch. Another striking attraction is Large Church Breda - Our Dear Mother Church, which is not only a landmark of the city but also one of the most important monuments. Displaying Brabantine Gothic style, the tall church appeals to the visitors for its shape that resembles a Latin Cross and its tall spires.
Breda Highlights Bike Tour
Duration: 2.5 hour
25. Leeuwarden (from USD 129.75)
Located in the northern part of the Netherlands, Leeuwarden is a city that boasts a vibrant and friendly atmosphere and is rich in history. There are tons of museums in Leeuwarden that it may not be possible to visit them all. However, Frisian Museum is among the best museums that you should visit. Having won the Global Fine Art award, the museum features precious treasures such as ancient Frisian mounds and Frisian silverware from the 17th and 18th centuries. Aquazoo Friesland also makes a nice place for a family outing. You can enjoy animal shows along with animal feedings and play equipment for kids.
Private Walking Tour Leeuwarden
Duration: 2 hour
26. Gouda (from USD 111.0)
The historic town of Gouda will tempt you with its cheese market that is open on the medieval Markt square between April and August. If you are a cheese lover, you have to come to Gouda in between those months. Other than the cheese market, Gouda is also popular for its iconic landmarks such as Sint-Janskerk, a Gothic church with beautiful windows and Museum Gouda that displays a collection of art pieces from the 16th and 19th centuries.
Private Guided Tour of Gouda
Duration: 2 hours
27. Leiden (from USD 324.0)
What is Leiden famous for? Probably Leiden University, one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, that has been producing excellent graduates since 1575. But of course, Leiden is not only famous for Leiden University. There are plenty of attractions to visit and enjoy in this city that is located in the Dutch province of South Holland. RMO National Antiquities Museum is the place in which you can admire a stunning collection of ancient Egyptian, Roman, and Greek objects. As soon as you get to the city center, you can see a medieval defense mound buried right in the heart of the city center. The city also houses several botanic gardens. If you have a lot of time, you can visit all of them, but if not, Leiden Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful that can be found inside Leiden University.
Leiden Private Tour with Art Historian Guide
Duration: 3 hours
28. Groningen (from USD 131.0)
Many consider Groningen, a city in northern Netherlands, one of the prettiest cities in the country. This is not without reasons. As soon as you reach Groningen, you will understand why. The city is loaded with idyllic parks, vibrant streets, banks of canals, and historic warehouses. One important landmark that you cannot miss is Martinitoren, the highest church in Groningen. Climb the spiral staircase that consists of 260 steps to get to the top–once you get there, the views are just beyond compare.
Groningen Private Guided Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Explore only the best of the Netherlands
Now that you have come to the end of the article, you now know the best places that are worth visiting in the Netherlands. Even though you may not be able to visit them all in case you are restricted by time, you should try your best to visit as many places as possible. Only when you explore the best of the Netherlands you can have one of the ultimate vacations in Europe.
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