In this Netherlands travel guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about exploring this beautiful country. From picturesque tulip fields and iconic windmills to bustling cities and rich history, the Netherlands has it all.

Whether you’re exploring the streets of Amsterdam, cycling through traditional villages, or checking out world-class museums, you’re bound to fall in love with this amazing country!

Get ready to explore beyond the Dutch capital and discover hidden gems, picture-perfect towns and lesser-known destinations beyond the tourist hotspots.

As a frequent traveller to the Netherlands, I’ll share my expert knowledge to help you plan your ideal trip.

Netherlands Travel Guide and Information

Location: Situated in Northwestern Europe, the Netherlands is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and bustling cities. It shares borders with Germany and Belgium which makes it easy to explore other countries on a day trip.

Capital city: The capital of the Netherlands is Amsterdam; a bustling city famous for its incredible nightlife, world-class museums and unique architecture. 

Population: 17.53 MILLION people live in the Netherlands with over 1.1 million people residing in the capital city. The most populated cities in the country are Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hauge.

Currency: The Netherlands operate with the Euro.

Language: Dutch is the main language in the Netherlands. However, most residents in the country speak great English. 

Electricity socket: In the Netherlands, the electric sockets are Type F. These sockets have two round pins and are commonly found in Europe.

If you’re coming from a country that uses Type F plugs, you can easily plug your devices directly into the sockets without the need for an adapter. However, you’ll want to carry a European travel adapter if you are travelling from the UK.

My experience in The Netherlands

I first visited the Netherlands to celebrate my 21st birthday. As I explored the city of Amsterdam with my sister, we checked out Anne Franks House, admired art at the Van Gogh Museum, wandered through Vondelpark and saw panoramic views of Jordaan from Westerkerk Church.

As the days drew to a close, we experienced Amsterdam nightlife by hitting up the city’s top cocktail bars and visiting the Red Light District. It was my first taste of the Netherlands and although I enjoyed it, I didn’t visit again until November 2022. Since then, I’ve visited the country FOUR times in less than a year.

I’ve experienced spring in Amsterdam, admiring the tulip fields of Keukenhof, discovered the enchanting castles and gardens region in summer and wandered the streets of the Dutch capital in autumn.

I’ve taken some amazing weekend trips from Amsterdam, allowing me to delve deeper into Dutch culture in Haarlem and Zaanse Schans. I’ve visited lesser-known destinations such as Breuleken and Vreeland. 

On my most recent visit, I spent two weeks living like a local in Monnickendam. I spent my time exploring hidden gems in Amsterdam and hitting up new destinations such as Broek in Waterland, Marken, Rotterdam and many more. 

As someone who now travels to the Netherlands on a regular basis, I’ve fallen in love with the country. On this page, I’ll share my expert knowledge allowing you to make the most out of your time in this incredible European destination! 

Do you need a visa to visit The Netherlands?

Most people will need a visa to enter the Netherlands. However, if you’re travelling from the UK, Switzerland or you’re a resident of an EU country, a visa is not required for a short-term trip. In fact, you can stay in the country for 90 days visa-free. 

If however, you’re travelling from further afield, you should check with an official source whether or not you need to get a visa in advance. Make sure you allow plenty of time to do this so you don’t encounter any issues. 

Is The Netherlands safe?

Whether you’re riding solo, travelling with friends or on a romantic getaway, safety is always an important matter to consider when booking a trip to any destination. If you’ve not been to the Netherlands before, you may be wondering if it’s a safe country. 

Simply put, yes it is! In fact, it’s one of the safest countries to visit across the globe. While you should watch out for petty crimes such as pickpocketing, this is true in almost every popular city worldwide. 

Now, is Amsterdam safe for solo female travellers? Of course! Having travelled to the country five times (three of which were solo adventures), I’ve never once felt unsafe in the Netherlands. Even as I’ve experienced the nightlife after dark. 

Scams in The Netherlands

While there are a few scams to watch out for in the Netherlands, it’s nowhere near as bad as the likes of Paris (where my own mum has fallen victim to a scam next to the Eiffel Tower).

In fact, I haven’t once experienced myself or anyone else getting scammed on either of my five trips to the country. Regardless, you should stay alert and watch out for scams including the following: 

Fake police officers 

According to Dutch officials, criminals dressed as police officers approach unsuspecting tourists. Claiming to be officers (with fake badges), they’ll ask to search your bag on the hunt for counterfeit euros or illegal drugs. 

While doing so, they will steal cash and valuables without you realising before sending you on your way. However, real police officers in Amsterdam and beyond will never ask to search your bag. If someone does, refuse to do as they say and calmly walk away.

Taxis in the Netherlands 

Unfortunately, taxi drivers across the country (especially in big cities) don’t have a great reputation. This is mainly due to a group of scammers driving tourists towards ridiculous fares for short rides.

For example, these taxi drivers ask for double (or even more) the price of what an Uber would cost and don’t switch on their meters. 

Your best bet is to skip taxis in the Netherlands. Either jump in an Uber where you’ll get a price upfront or use their amazing public transport network. 

Best time to visit The Netherlands

If you’re open to dates, you may be wondering when the best time is to explore the Netherlands. However, this beautiful country is worth visiting at any time of year.

While spring is best if you want to see the country bloom with tulips, autumn allows you to get cosy in the country’s best cafes and museums. 

Summer is also a great time to visit the Netherlands as the weather picks up and a whole range of events offer a bustling atmosphere.

If you’re a fan of Christmas markets and festive cheer, popular cities such as Amsterdam, Maastricht and The Hague offer cheerful getaways at this time of year. 

• The best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam in Spring
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam in Autumn
• Best things to do in Amsterdam in winter
• A complete guide to visiting Amsterdam in March
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam in April
• A complete guide to visiting Amsterdam in May
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam in June
• A guide to visiting Amsterdam in August
• Tips for visiting Amsterdam in September
• Exploring Amsterdam in October
• Discovering Amsterdam in November
• Everything you need to know about visiting Amsterdam in December

Travelling around The Netherlands

If you fancy exploring beyond the capital of Amsterdam (and you definitely should), it’s super easy to get around in the Netherlands. There are a number of ways to get from A to B including buses, trams, metro, trains and Ubers. With such an extensive network, you can easily explore hidden gems, bustling cities and the Dutch countryside. 

Check out these posts for a complete guide on Netherlands transportation. They cover everything you need to know including general prices of popular routes, how to buy tickets and things to keep in mind as you use public transport across the country. 

• Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Centraal
• Getting around in Amsterdam
• Is the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket worth it?

How much does a Netherlands trip cost?

Figuring out how much money you need in any country can be SUCH a minefield. The thing is, there are so many factors that go into how much we spend as we travel. In order to decide how much you need to travel in the Netherlands, you need to have an honest conversation about the type of traveller you are.

For example, do you enjoy lavish hotels, fancy cocktails and expensive excursions? Or do you prefer to take advantage of free activities and cheap eats? You might even like to mix it up a little! 

Whichever way you prefer to travel is fine, but if you’re not honest about it, you could easily run out of money fast. If you know you like to splurge while on the road, make sure you prepare. Start putting money away in advance and by the time you land in the Netherlands, you’ll be good to go.

Places to visit in the Netherlands

There is so much to the Netherlands beyond the capital city! With so many amazing day trips from Amsterdam, it’s easy to jump on a train (or bus) and check out the hidden gems of the country.

The beauty of this is that not only are these places filled with traditional Dutch charm and picture-perfect views, but there are also way fewer people. In some spots, you might even be the only tourist! How cool is that?

Amstelveen

Situated around an hour outside of Amsterdam city centre via public transport, Amstelveen is worth adding to your itinerary. Especially if you’re spending a week in Amsterdam.

With a number of cool attractions and a selection of great restaurants along the river, Amstelveen is a fab place to spend a sunny day.

In terms of things to do in Amstelveen, my top recommendation is to visit the Cobra Museum of Modern Art. Now, if you’re not an art lover, you may want to give this one a miss. However, if you have any interest in art at all, it’s truly a must-see.

In fact, I love it so much I’ll go as far as to say it’s my favourite museum in the country (and that’s saying something).

Art enthusiasts will find themselves truly captivated at this museum. It’s renowned for showcasing The Cobra Movement, which is a revolutionary artistic venture uniting talents from three renowned urban centres: Copenhagen, Brussels, and the esteemed Dutch capital, Amsterdam.

Members of The Cobra Movement consciously delve into unconventional methods, fully embracing artistic liberty and embarking on daring creative trials. As you explore the museum’s exhibition spaces, you will encounter an array of remarkable artworks adorned with lively hues and boldly expressive brushwork. 

If you’re not a fan of art, don’t worry! There are other spots worth visiting in the area. For example, you can pay a visit to Het Amsterdamse Bos – a beautiful green space not far from the centre of Amstelveen. This spot is ideal for nature lovers or if you fancy a picnic on a hot day. 

In terms of other attractions, you can also consider hitting up Museum Jan, Goatfarm Ridammerhoeve and Clara Maria Cheese Farm & Clog Factory. 

When it comes to food, Amstelveen boasts an impressive array of restaurants. After visiting SAAM Restaurant myself, I can personally recommend it for exceptional service, great food and a fantastic selection of drinks.

However, one of the best things about this restaurant is its location right on the Amstel River! On a warm day, you’ll be treated to amazing views over the water.

If you don’t like the sound of SAAM, consider visiting Amber Garden, Day Foodbar or Aan de Poel instead. All come highly rated amongst travellers and locals! 

Amsterdam 

No Netherlands travel guide would be complete without mentioning the capital of Amsterdam! As the most visited destination in the Netherlands, you NEED to spend at least a few days exploring this incredible city. 

With a whole range of activities on offer, Amsterdam offers something for everyone. From art galleries galore to historical attractions, canal cruises and churches, you’ll be spoilt for choice on your getaway to this popular European gem. 

Also known for its world-class museums, there is a museum for (pretty much) everything in the city. I tested that theory on my most recent trip when I explored the likes of the Katten Kabinet (a cat museum), the Embassy of the Free Mind and many more unique museums across the city. 

Here are the best places to eat in Amsterdam.

If you’re looking for great food, Amsterdam has you covered! Not only does the city offer a number of Michelin Starred restaurants, but there are also lots of cheap eat spots scattered across the city. Most notable is Vlaams Friteshuis Vleminckx which offers the best Dutch fries in Amsterdam (and yes, I’ve tried them myself).

Fancy a drink? Then you’re in luck! The Dutch capital boasts a fantastic nightlife meaning you could easily hit up sophisticated cocktail bars, karaoke bars and wild clubs all on the same night. 

The city is also home to House of Bols and the Genever experience where you can discover the history of the brand and partake in cocktail-making workshops.

If you’d prefer, you can opt to go on a tour of the Heineken Experience instead. Or, if you’re looking for a unique drinking experience in the city, head to the Ice Bar.

But how long do you need in the city? That’s hard to say! With so many things to do in Amsterdam, you should aim for at least three days. However, you could easily spend a week in the city exploring the different neighbourhoods and visiting hidden gems.

• Tips for visiting Amsterdam
• How to visit Amsterdam on a budget
• Is the Iamsterdam card worth it?
• How to spend one day in Amsterdam: 4 UNIQUE itineraries
• A weekend in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam 3-day itinerary for first timers
• The PERFECT Amsterdam itinerary for 7 days
• The ULTIMATE Amsterdam bucket list
• Crazy things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Weird museums in Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Things to do in Amsterdam in winter
• Shopping for vintage clothes in Amsterdam
• Instagram spots in Amsterdam
• Clink Noord, Amsterdam: Review
• Where to stay in Amsterdam

While Amsterdam is a must-see, not visiting other places in the Netherlands is a huge mistake!

Breukelen

Located along the banks of the peaceful Vecht River, Breukelen offers a captivating blend of historical sights and natural beauty. Not only that but there’s an interesting story behind the town’s name. 

Something to note as you explore the Netherlands is that several neighbourhoods in New York City were named after Dutch towns and cities. For example, Brooklyn’s name came from Breukelen and Harlem is named after the popular Dutch city of Haarlem. How interesting is that? 

This charming Dutch town allows visitors to step back in time while also enjoying the tranquillity of its surroundings. The picturesque waterfront is adorned with stunning homes, wildflowers and bridges that connect both halves of town, adding to the town’s postcard-worthy charm. 

Nature enthusiasts will love the lush landscapes that Breukelen offers. The Vecht River offers serene boat rides, while nearby parks and trails inspire you to explore the countryside by foot or bike (just as the locals do).

Breukelen’s close-knit community takes pride in its heritage and warmly welcomes travellers. Whether you’re savouring traditional Dutch dishes at local eateries (such as Pub Het Regthuys) or simply soaking in the town’s serene ambience, Breukelen promises a delightful escape.

Broek in Waterland

Nestled away less than twenty minutes by bus from Amsterdam Centraal, Broek in Waterland is one of the most charming villages to visit in the Netherlands.

With its enchanting and timeless allure, you’ll be treated to picture-perfect views and unique vibes if you opt to visit during your time in the country.

Back in the day, the village was one of the top tourist locations for wealthy Amsterdammers due to its picturesque wooden homes and calming views. These rich business people bought holiday homes in Broek in Waterland, offering the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city during summer. 

In those times, these impressive homes were known for their brightly coloured facades, ornate details and beautiful gardens. Over time, the interiors of the homes also blossomed.

In the 18th century, the people of Broek in Waterland started painting their inside walls in bolder colours or purchasing snazzy wallpaper. They purchased more belongings including stunning furniture and porcelain collections. 

Although you can’t see a local home’s interior, you can imagine how beautiful they are on the inside as you stroll around the village. 

Nowadays, this spot is very much an off-the-beaten-path destination. In fact, it’s not very well known amongst tourists who often opt to visit places like Giethoorn instead.

As I spent the day wandering around Broek in Waterland, I felt I was surrounded by locals, not travellers. It was the perfect opportunity to delve deeper into Dutch culture and history away from the crowds!

Haarlem 

Despite only being a short train ride from Amsterdam, fewer people visit Haarlem than the likes of Zaanse Schans (which draws in around one million tourists each year). Due to this, if you’re looking to escape the crowds, Haarlem is the place to be. 

Located a twenty-minute train ride from central Amsterdam, this city has a lot to offer. Although it’s much smaller than the capital, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. 

First up, make sure you spend some time admiring the Grote Markt. This is the main square and boasts some of the most beautiful buildings in the area. Structures such as the town hall and St. Bavo Church stand out the most with the church’s tower standing tall above the city. 

In terms of attractions, Haarlem houses the oldest museum in the Netherlands – Teylers Museum which dates back to 1784. Here you’ll find a large selection of exhibits covering everything from art and history to science exhibitions. 

Inside, exploring the Pieter Teyler House is also well worth doing as it’s included in the price of your ticket. This is even truer if you have a keen interest in history and elegant interiors.

Pieter Teyler was a wealthy man, which is evident through the restored decor you’ll admire as you wander around the house. As well as being the founder of the museum, Pieter strived to make the world a better place for all. How admirable is that? 

Another must-see museum in Haarlem is the Frans Hals Museum, especially for art enthusiasts. Having lived and worked in the city for many years, the museum holds a large collection of his most famous works.

During your visit, you’ll be taken on a story throughout his life and the process of his work (which was known for loose and expressive brush strokes).

If museums aren’t you’re thing, there are several other things to do in Haarlem. For example, you could opt to join a canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective. Alternatively, pay a visit to Windmill De Adriaan and Jopen Brewery to try one of their many beers in an old reformed church. 

Haarlem is also known for great shopping and a fantastic dining scene so if you’re spending a day in the area, allow some time to shop and eat out. You won’t be disappointed! 

Lisse

Lisse, a quaint Dutch town known for its vibrant flower fields and rich heritage, offers an array of activities for visitors seeking both beauty and cultural experiences.

As one of the best places to find tulips in the Netherlands, Lisse is home to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens and not too far from the Tulip Experience. This breathtaking garden is a true floral paradise, offering the perfect chance to unwind in beautiful surroundings. 

Keukenhof boasts impressive landscaped gardens bursting with colour and postcard-worthy photo opportunities. If you do one thing in the area, make it this!

Many tourists descend upon this part of the country during the tulip season (from March to May) for good reason. At that time of year, you’ll find tulips galore pretty much anywhere you go.

However, there are other things to do in Lisse beyond visiting the tulip fields. In addition to its floral wonders, Lisse offers a glimpse into the region’s history. If you’re visiting at a different time of year or just want to escape the crowds, consider checking out: 

• Museum Black Tulip: To gain insight into the regions tulip-growing heritage and discover the history of the tulip trade and its significance in Dutch culture.
• Kasteel Keukenhof: As well as admiring the exterior, visitors to Kasteel Keukenhof can step into the past as they explore the castle’s opulent rooms and hallways
• Saint Agatha Church: A building that showcases the town’s historical and architectural significance, this centuries-old landmark is not only a place of worship but also a captivating embodiment of Dutch heritage and artistry.
• LAM Museum: Art lovers will be in their element at the LAM Museum which is known for impressive contemporary art and varied exhibitions. 

For those seeking a taste of local life, Lisse town centre boasts boutique shops, quaint cafes and inviting restaurants. Strolling through its streets, you’ll find a blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair.

If you’re in the mood for a leisurely bike ride, the surrounding countryside offers scenic trails that wind through flower fields and along tranquil canals, providing an authentic Dutch experience. It’s one of the best things to do in the local area!

Check out my list of things you should know about tulip season in the Netherlands.

Marken

Marken is a picture-perfect village located a short boat ride away from Voldendam. Aboard the Volendam to Marken Express, you can admire views of both destinations as you enjoy the windy ride.

It’s a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of traditional Dutch culture, stunning natural landscapes and rich heritage. As you explore what was once a free-standing island, you can discover more about the town at one (or more) of the local museums. 

My personal favourite was Sijtje Boes – an original house of Marken decorated exactly how it would have been back in the day. What I loved about this spot was the array of colours, patterns and porcelain plates on display. Bold colours always catch my eye, they’re certainly a designer’s dream! 

Other than that, Marken Museum is a small museum exhibiting local history including information about the maritime trade. If you prefer a more unique museum, head to the Wooden Shoe Factory to see exactly how this popular wooden shoe is made. 

On the hunt for pretty landscapes? Then make the journey up to Marken Lighthouse. This spot offers one of the most amazing views in the Netherlands.

Back in town, give yourself some time to stroll around at a leisurely pace. Marken’s architecture is a true standout feature with tightly-clustered wooden homes painted in an array of different colours. If you’re anything like me, your camera will be a permanent fixture in your hands! 

Once you’re done adventuring, sit down to enjoy a drink with harbour views before catching the ferry back to Volendam. It’s the perfect way to end your time in this picturesque Dutch village.

Monnickendam

On my fifth (and most recent) trip to the Netherlands, I spent almost two weeks living like a local in Monnickendam. While most of my time was spent hitting up hidden gems in Amsterdam or going on day trips, I did dedicate some time to exploring this unique city. 

This lesser-known destination is known amongst the Dutch, yet I didn’t see any other international tourists there during my whole visit. As I was visiting at the height of summer, this was really quite surprising.

Although the weather really wasn’t the best (typical), it was easy to get people-free photos in the middle of the afternoon. That’s not something you can easily say in the likes of Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Zaanse Schans. 

Aside from taking in the beautiful Dutch architecture, charming streets and fishing harbour, there are a few things worth doing in Monnickendam. First up, Grote Kerk is one of the top attractions and is well worth visiting if you’re a history lover.

Prefer arts and crafts? Don’t fret! The church has a space that they rent out to creatives on a regular basis. This means that every three weeks or so, a new artist or specialist craftsperson will set up shop and work away from this unique space. Plus, they also hold exhibitions in the main church area. 

Aside from the church, the other main attraction is Museum de Speeltoren. This is the ideal spot to learn more about Monnickendam and the whole Waterland region of the Netherlands. Housed inside a centuries-old impressive tower building, you can easily spend hours learning all about the local area. 

Rotterdam

Rotterdam draws in over a million tourists (and Dutch holidaymakers) each year. However, that’s nothing compared to Amsterdams’ 18 MILLION annual visitors. While many choose to skip Rotterdam, I’m here to tell you that it’s well worth adding to your Netherlands bucket list! 

Why? Because Rotterdam has a completely different vibe than anywhere else in the Netherlands. Its mismatch of old and new architecture offers a unique reason to explore this part of the country. 

If you’re heading to the city to check out cool buildings, make sure you don’t miss the Cube Houses, Witte Huis and Markthal Rotterdam. For things to do beyond admiring snazzy structures, you can: 

• Relax in one of the many green spaces (Rotterdam is home to a number of great parks)
• Visit art galleries and museums 
• Explore the historical neighbourhood of Delftshaven 
• Grab food (and a few drinks) along Witte de Withstraat
• Check out the old harbour 
• Search for impressive street art 

Check out these blog posts about visiting Rotterdam:

• How to spend a day in Rotterdam

Volendam

Volendam is a charming fishing village nestled on the shores of the IJsselmeer Lake. A true Dutch gem, it offers a captivating blend of maritime heritage, vibrant culture and scenic beauty.

During the day, its iconic waterfront is a bustling hub for businesses and tourists. However, as the day draws to a close, Volendam feels more like a ghost town. Once the day trippers have headed home, you’ll be treated to more relaxed vibes as pink hues take over the skies during sunset. 

To find out more about Volendam and its intriguing maritime past, head to Volendam Museum. Located a short walk from the harbourfront, it’s the perfect spot to learn all about the village’s unique past. 

Volendam is also known for its distinctive traditional dress. Over the years, it’s become a symbol of the village’s identity. If you fancy being the ultimate tourist (like I did), you can head to one of the several photo shops and dress up in Volendam costumes. You’ll leave with photos that evoke a sense of nostalgia and traditional Dutch charm!

Afterwards, spend some time wandering around as you take in the town’s authentic atmosphere and adorable homes. 

To end your time in Volendam, grab a table at one of the waterfront restaurants. That way you can take in the gorgeous views of the village as you enjoy your meal. The village’s location on the water makes it the perfect spot to feast on seafood and after dining at Cafe van den Hogen, I’d highly recommend their fried cod!

Vreeland

Vreeland, a stunning village located along the tranquil banks of the Vecht River, offers a serene escape in the heart of the Dutch countryside. This idyllic destination is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty, historical allure, and a sense of timeless tranquillity.

The Vecht River runs throughout the village, reflecting the surrounding greenery and offering a peaceful backdrop for leisurely strolls. You’ll also find quaint homes adorned with charming gardens and window boxes full of flowers.

Although there isn’t a whole lot to do in Vreeland, it’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat if you’re exploring the nearby castles and gardens of the country. 

After dining there myself back in June, I fell in love with Restaurant Hendrik. Not only was the food (onion soup) incredibly delicious, but the service was impeccable. 

However, the showstopper for this restaurant has to be the decor. With traditional William Morris wallpaper, rich colours and floral tapestries, the place oozed charm and interior delight. In fact, I’d go back to this restaurant in a heartbeat!

The countryside surrounding Vreeland offers opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can opt to bike along scenic paths, lush meadows and alongside the river to truly take in the area’s natural beauty.

Alternatively, boat tours along the Vecht River offer a unique vantage point, allowing you to take in the landscapes of the Netherlands from a different perspective.

Zaandam

Just like Rotterdam, Zaandam is known for its impressive architecture. In fact, the town’s distinctive buildings immediately captures the attention of visitors, with its iconic green wooden houses standing as a testament to Zaandam’s unique identity.

More notably, the Inntel Hotel looks like something from the future. This iconic Lego-like structure houses one of the best hotels in the city but has quickly become one of the main reasons for visiting town. As you admire its impressive structure, you’ll spot many travellers snapping their perfect shot here!

Although there isn’t much to do in Zaandam when it comes to tourist attractions, it’s a great place for shopping and dining out. If you’re on the hunt for a new outfit, head along the high street. As you shop, you’ll discover yet more painted wooden homes that the region is known for. 

Fancy a bite to eat? Then I can personally recommend Lagom Cafe. Situated slap bang in the middle of town, opt to dine outside on a sunny day for breakfast with a view – you’ll get unobstructed views of the Inntel Hotel as you eat. Plus, their food is delicious! 

Zaandam is also super close to the next spot on this list, making it easy to visit both on a day trip from Amsterdam.

Zaanse Schans

Last, but by no means least is Zaanse Schans. Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal by train, it’s one of the easiest day trips from the Dutch capital. It’s also one of the best places for delving deep into Dutch culture and history. 

During your time in the area, you can pay a visit to the Zaans Museum. This popular attraction is dedicated to showcasing the history of the Zaan areas in the Netherlands.

You’ll discover lots of key information about this region through art, historical exhibits and informative displays. You’ll learn how Zaanse Schans was once home to hundreds of working windmills all producing a variety of products such as chalk, spices and much more.  

With many things to do in Zaanse Schans, you can also explore:

• Wooden Clog Workshop 
• The working windmills of Zaanse Schans 
• Weavers House 
• Catharina Hove Cheese Farm 
• Albert Heijn Museum
• Zaan Time Museum 

For something a little different, you can also opt to take a boat ride to see Zaanse Schans from a different perspective. However, you may want to give this a miss if you’re not lucky with the weather. 

Other places to visit in the Netherlands

Alongside the destinations that I’ve visited myself (listed above), there are many more spots worth exploring across the country. For example, these places have their own charms and attractions worth hitting up: 

• Delft: World famous for its Delft blue pottery, you’ll find lots of Delft products for sale across the country.
• Edam: A picture-perfect Dutch town famous for its cheese. 
• Eindhoven: Located in the south, many people tend to skip it. However, there are many things to see and do in Eindhoven.
• Giethoorn: Known as the Venice of the Netherlands, Giethoorn is known for its relaxing ambience thanks to the lack of cars.
• The Hauge: Situated a short train ride away from Rotterdam, there are a number of fab attractions in The Hauge including a miniature city that is fun for the whole family (or solo travellers like myself).
• Maastricht: As a university city, Maastricht offers a bustling and lively atmosphere as you adventure through the country.
• Utrecht: Known for its historical city centre, Utrecht is well worth adding to your Netherlands itinerary. 

Netherlands VS other destinations

Each destination across the globe has something unique to offer. From world-class museums in Amsterdam to art galleries galore in New York City, there is something for everyone no matter where you go.

However, sometimes it can be hard to decide where to travel to. That’s why I’ve created these handy guides to help you decide whether to hit up one of the Netherlands’ top destinations or head somewhere completely different instead.

• Amsterdam VS Paris
• Amsterdam VS Copenhagen
• Amsterdam VS Rotterdam

FAQs about travelling in The Netherlands

Conclusion for travelling in the Netherlands

Simply put, this Netherlands travel guide showcases everything you need to know to make the most out of your time in the country. By now, you’re aware of the best places to visit in the Netherlands. You also know all of the key information to ensure you have an incredible time in this beautiful country.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to get it touch. As someone who has travelled extensively across the country, I would love to share my knowledge of travelling in the Netherlands! 

Have the best time!

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