Top places to visit in the Netherlands | Beauty at its best!

Places to visit in the Netherlands | An overview

The Netherlands is known for its diverse culture, values of its people, its countryside, nightlife, and much more. With famous cheese, tulips, coffee shops, and top places to visit in the Netherlands –  this country will fascinate you without bounds. When you plan your trip, it is important to do your research and zero in on the details and duration of your stay.

Why visit the Netherlands?

The Netherlands may be a small country, but its wide variety of traditional products, heritage, tourist attractions, and exciting cities make it an extremely popular travel destination. However, the ideal duration of touring the country is approximately seven days. So, here is a list of the top 10 places in the Netherlands to not miss out.

Top 10 places to visit in the Netherlands

Amsterdam

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities globally, Amsterdam is on the top of the list of every traveler who’s visiting The Netherlands. Amsterdam is among the most visited cities globally, housing historical monuments, famous museums, numerous exquisite canals, and exciting nightlife. Located in the North of Holland, this sprawling city offers unparalleled experiences to travelers. A few attractions in Amsterdam are –

• Rijksmuseum 
• Van Gogh Museum 
• The Anne Frank House 
• Bloemenmarkt 
• Dam Square

Rotterdam

Among the best places in The Netherlands, Rotterdam was formerly a fishing village in the South of The Netherlands but is now the country’s most modern city. It is the ideal vacation spot for families, friends, and couples, owing to its rich history and natural beauty. Rotterdam is one of the most attractive cities in the country. Its unique combination of history, culture, magnificent architecture and major metropolitan attractions entices travelers worldwide. All in all, a few must-visit attractions in Rotterdam are: 

• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen 
• Diergaarde Blijdorp or Rotterdam Zoo 
• Maritime Museum 
• Climbing Park Fun Forest 
• Markthal or Market Hall

The Hague

Known as the Royal Cty by the Sea due to its Royal Dutch citizens, The Hague is among the fascinating places to visit in The Netherlands and is best known for the contemporary art exhibits at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag and the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis. The Hague has several famous landmarks and historic neighborhoods, and visitors may easily browse the luxury retail stores, quaint boutiques, and international art galleries. Although Amsterdam is the capital, the Binnenhof, or the Dutch government’s seat, is situated in The Hague. Here are a few places to visit in The Hague –

• Madurodam 
• Panorama Mesdag 
• Mauritshuis 
• Binnenhof

Maastricht

Maastricht, in southern Holland, is famed for its lively city square, the Vrijthof, as well as the majestic Saint Servatius Church, the Saint Jan’s Cathedral, and the medieval fortifications Vestigingswerkens. The Vrijthof hosts several annual festivals, including local favorites in the fall and winter. The town offers an exquisite package of medieval architecture and a modern setting, fantastic cafes, fashionable pubs, and interesting galleries and shops. A few places to visit in Maastricht are –

• St. Pietersberg Caves 
• Helpoort 
• Bonnefanten Museum 
• Mount Saint Peter 

Haarlem

Haarlem, the heart of the tulip bulb-growing district, is nick-named Bloemenstad, which translates to flower city, and is home to the annual Bloemencorso Parade. This peaceful neighborhood is along the Spaarne River’s shoreline and is home to several well-preserved medieval buildings. As a matter of fact, visitors love to shop and admire the spectacular architecture and museums along the Grote Markt city center. The Teylers Museum, which focuses on natural history, art, and scientific displays, is the oldest in The Netherlands. In addition to this, Art lovers visit the Franz Hals Museum, which houses the works of several Dutch masters. A few other attractions in Haarlem are –

• Grote Kerk 
• The Old City Hall 
• The Corrie Ten Boom House 

Utrecht

Utrecht, often known as the student capital, has a plethora of affordable places to eat, drink, and socialize, making it a favorite destination for visitors on a budget. Throughout the year, several festivals are held in the city. People come here for pubs, open markets, and the vibrant young atmosphere. It appeals to art and architecture enthusiasts as well. Utrecht’s rich Middle Age history is reflected in its architecture. The city’s most distinctive feature is the inner canal wharf system, which was built to keep parts of the Rhine river from entering the city center. Utrecht is also home to The Netherlands’ largest university, the University of Utrecht. A few places to visit in Utrecht are: 

• Gothic Cathedral of Saint Martin 
• Dom Tower 
• The Rietveld Schroder House 
• Speelklok Museum 

Leiden

Leiden’s lovely, tree-lined canals are punctuated by antique windmills, wooden bridges, and verdant parks, making it a great destination to visit. A boat ride down one of these beautiful canals is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Numerous museums, ranging from science and natural history to museums dedicated to windmills and Egyptian artifacts, are housed in Leiden. A few attractions to not miss out on in Leiden are –

• Museum Boerhaave 
• The Molen De Valk Windmill Museum 
• Hortus Botanicus 
• Church of St. Peter 

Groningen

Groningen is another destination among the popular places in The Netherlands. Owing to its rich history, culture, and art and the stunning beauty of its canals and waterways, a holiday in Groningen is ideal if you consider yourself a history buff or nature lover. The city also has two well-known colleges and a thriving nightlife. A few tourist attractions in Groningen are –

• The Grote Markt 
• Peperstraat 
• Vismarkt 
• Groningen Museum 

Volendam

Volendam is a charming fishing village only 12 kilometers north of Amsterdam. Apart from Amsterdam, it is one of the most attractive spots in The Netherlands. It’s a must-visit for foodies because of its local specialties, fish, and cheese. It would be a waste of time to leave Volendam without experiencing its wonderful cuisine. All in all, a few places to visit in Volendam are –

• Paard Van Marken 
• Edams Museum
• Volendam Museum 
• Edam Cheese Market 

Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is a Dutch rural town famous for its unique 18th-century windmills. Tourists flock to the village to admire the typical Dutch lush greenery and stunning countryside views. The village’s 19 windmills, which were built to prevent flooding and keep the soil dry, have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The criss-cross bike routes, streams, and pathways will enchant anyone who appreciates the countryside. A few tourist attractions in Kinderdijk are –

• Museummolen Nederwaard 
• Donckse Forest 
• World Heritage Kinderdijk 
• Wisboom Pumping Station 

Key takeaways

• As a matter of fact, the Netherlands has something for every person. 
• Whether you are looking for exciting nightlife, delicious food, rich architecture, or natural delights through tulip fields, the Netherlands has it all.
• However, it is best to do your research thoroughly before setting out on a trip. 
• All in all, narrow down on what you are looking to get out of your vacation. 
• It will make it easier to decide what places in the Netherlands you want to go to first. 

Additionally, if you want more information on the Netherlands, its education, and job opportunities, drop a comment below or get in touch with us.

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FAQs

Question 1: Is it safe to travel to the Netherlands alone?

Answer: As a matter of fact, yes! The Netherlands is a relatively safe country with a low crime rate. The legislation is followed to the letter. The Netherlands is ranked 16th among the world’s safest countries. 

Question 2: What are some souvenirs I can bring from the Netherlands?

Answer: All in all, the Netherlands has a rich cultural heritage, which shows in its local, artisanal products. Here are a few things to shop for in the Netherlands – Wooden clogs, Dutch Licorice, Dutch jewelry, Ceramics, and Dutch cheese. 

Question 3: What is the best time to visit the Netherlands? 

Answer: As a matter of fact, the country has a pleasant climate, with milder summers. If you appreciate being around blooming tulips, the months from March through May are ideal for visiting the Netherlands.