For many travellers, the main attraction when visiting the Netherlands is, almost naturally, its capital city Amsterdam. With its many canals, sweeping alleyways and typical Dutch ‘gezelligheid’, it’s not a big mystery why so many fall in love with the city. But while Amsterdam is a fantastic place to be, venturing beyond its canals unveils a whole new side of the Netherlands. The country, precariously located under sea level, boasts a hidden world beyond its capital, waiting to unveil its charm. From the vibrant university towns steeped in history to the natural beauty of the islands and the inner tranquillity in National Park De Hoge Veluwe: there is so much more to explore than ‘just’ Amsterdam.
The Netherlands boasts an excellent public transport system, and many destinations can be easily reached by train or bus. You can pay for most trains, trams and buses using your debit card, or purchase an OV-card before your arrival. Some municipalities offer unlimited day passes as well for even easier transport during your trip.
Best for: City trips
Haarlem: the city that has everything
Located just 20 minutes from the aforementioned Amsterdam, Haarlem captivates everything we love about our capital city and more. Explore picturesque canals lined with gabled houses, a memory of the city’s prosperity during the Golden Age. Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of the country at the Frans Hals Museum, housing a treasure trove of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces by, naturally, Frans Hals himself, but also other famous names such as Jan Steen and Cornelis van Haarlem. Discover the classic ‘hofjes’: hidden courtyards lined by century old houses, offering a glimpse into Haarlem’s unique social history. For a dose of modern buzz, delve into the vibrant Grote Markt square, brimming with cafes and bustling with life.
Rotterdam: the Architecture City
Rotterdam is the largest city of the province Zuid-Holland, and distinctly different from the typical Dutch town. Here, a bold and vibrant metropolis rises from the ashes of World War II, a testament to resilience and innovation. Explore the daring, contemporary architecture that defines Rotterdam’s cityscape, such as the iconic Erasmus Bridge, a dazzling feat of engineering, and the Cube Houses by Piet Blom. Rotterdam also boasts a diverse culinary scene, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy food halls. Be sure to visit the Markthallen for a multicultural taste of the city, or go on a Bike & Bite tour through the city with plenty of tasty stops.
Best for: Historical charm
Leiden: City of Discovery
Leave the hustle and bustle of Rotterdam behind you and discover the tranquil charm of Leiden, just 30 minutes further north. Here, history whispers from cobbled streets as you wander alongside picturesque canals. Leiden, home to the Netherlands’ oldest university, boasts a rich tapestry of stories. Renowned figures like Rembrandt and scientist Herman Boerhaave walked the same streets you can admire from a cosy terrace with a coffee and a ‘kletskop’ (a crisp, buttery cookie). Immerse yourself further in this vibrant past at world-class museums, such as the prestigious Rijksmuseum Boerhaave and the National Museum of Antiquities. Nature lovers cannot miss the Hortus Botanicus, the oldest botanical garden of the Netherlands.
Planning a fall visit? On the 3rd of October, the city celebrates Leidens Ontzet, a vibrant celebration commemorating its liberation from Spanish rule in 1574. Join the festivities and discover the magic of Leiden.
Delft: Creating History
Equally charming is the nearby city of Delft, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and the birthplace of Delft Blue pottery, which boosted the city from its humble origin to a globally recognised concept. Be sure to visit the Royal Delft museum to learn more about the history of this intricate design, or book a painting workshop for a hands-on experience on the craft. Take in the historical centre while you wander through the cobblestone streets, or take a boat tour to discover the city from the water.
Best for: Natural beauty
The hills of De Hoge Veluwe
If citytrips aren’t your style, travel to the centre of the country and you’ll find De Hoge Veluwe: a unique nature reserve spanning just over 90.000 hectares in the province Gelderland. Explore a network of trails weaving through ancient woodlands, vibrant heathlands, and majestic sand dunes. The best time to visit De Veluwe is from mid-August until mid-September, when the heather fields are blossoming, but throughout the year you can discover wonderful hiking, biking and horse riding trails. At De Veluwe you can spot four of the Dutch Big Five (red deer, roe deer, wild boars and Scottish Highlanders!) during a trek with a forest ranger. Whether you’re seeking an active adventure or a serene retreat, De Hoge Veluwe promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
From the Wadden to the Sea
You can spot the final of the Big Five, the seal, with a trip to the Dutch Wadden Islands. The island group consists of 14 islands, five of which are inhabited and can be visited by tourists. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a unique ecosystem unlike anything you’ve ever experienced in Western Europe.
Each of the five islands showcases its own unique personality: explore the boutique shops and charming cafes of Texel, consider the car-free tranquillity of Schiermonnikoog, or immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of Terschelling. Witness the ever-changing landscape of the Wadden Sea, the largest tidal flat system on Earth. Here, you explore vast mudflats teeming with life at low tide and marvel at the endless expanse of water during high tide, before you unwind at one of the pristine beaches.
Best for: Family-friendly Fun
Theme parks galore
Take a break from your cultural holiday and experience childlike wonder in one of the many theme parks in the Netherlands. Fairytales come to life at Efteling, where whimsical rides and enchanting shows transport you to a world of imagination. Adrenaline junkies can find heart-pounding rollercoasters and exhilarating water attractions at Walibi Holland, while younger children will delight in the charming rides and playful characters at Slagharen or Drievliet. So take a break from sightseeing and create lasting memories with a thrilling theme park adventure!
So Many Zoos
There’s always time to discover the animal kingdom, and with plenty of different zoos in the country you’ll always be able to fit one in your itinerary. Hidden in the city of Rotterdam you’ll find Blijdorp, a zoo renowned for its realistic and immersive habitats. Imagine yourself on the African savanna at Safaripark Beekse Bergen, or go for the Burger’s Zoo in Arnhem, also known as the Royal Zoo. The Netherlands offers a diverse zoo experience for animal lovers of all ages, allowing you to get up close with fascinating creatures and learn about conservation efforts around the world.
The Caves of Maastricht
Descend beneath the southern city of Maastricht and discover a hidden world. Explore a labyrinth of tunnels adorned with sculptures and mural paintings, and be sure to go on a guided tour to learn more about its historical importance. The Maastricht Caves promise a unique adventure, perfect for families and history buffs alike.
Whether you’re in for a less than typical citytrip or want to explore the natural beauty of the islands, the Netherlands awaits you with open arms. Even if you choose to combine any of these locations with a quick stop in Amsterdam, we won’t hold it against you!
