Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of the Netherlands
The Netherlands, a country of picturesque canals and vibrant cities, captivates with its rich history, innovative architecture, and welcoming culture. From the artistic heritage of Amsterdam to the charming streets of Utrecht, the Netherlands offers a blend of tradition and modernity. Explore iconic windmills, savour Dutch cuisine, and experience lively festivals. The country’s tulip fields, cycling paths, and renowned museums make it a top destination for travellers. The Netherlands’ unique charm ensures an unforgettable travel experience.
When to visit
Temp Range
Currency
Min Budget




Apr – Oct
0 – 25°C
32 – 77°F
Euro (EUR)
$60-80/day
Top Attractions
See below for a selection of the top attractions in the Netherlands, review the map to see where these are located to help plan your trip.
Amsterdam’s Canals
Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site, weave through the city, offering scenic views of historic buildings and charming houseboats. Visitors can enjoy leisurely canal cruises, explore quaint bridges, and experience the city’s vibrant culture and architecture from the water, highlighting Amsterdam’s unique urban landscape and historical significance.
Access from – Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam houses an extensive collection of Dutch art and history, featuring masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Golden Age artists. Explore its impressive galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and artefacts. The museum’s iconic architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens enhance the cultural experience.
Access from – Amsterdam
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a poignant museum dedicated to the Jewish diarist Anne Frank, who hid from the Nazis during World War II. Visitors can tour the secret annex where she wrote her diary, learning about her life, the Holocaust, and the impact of her powerful story.
Access from – Amsterdam
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s artworks. Visitors can admire his famous paintings, drawings, and letters, gaining insight into the artist’s life and creative process. The museum offers a comprehensive look at Van Gogh’s evolution and enduring influence on modern art.
Access from – Amsterdam
Keukenhof Gardens
Located in Lisse, Keukenhof Gardens is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, showcasing over seven million blooming tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths each spring. Visitors can stroll through beautifully themed gardens, pavilions, and scenic pathways, experiencing a vibrant display of colours and floral artistry in a picturesque setting.
Access from – Lisse
Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum near Amsterdam, showcasing traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal workshops. Visitors can explore historic windmills, watch clog-making demonstrations, and sample local cheeses. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century Dutch life and is a popular destination for cultural heritage.
Access from – Zaandam
Rotterdam’s Modern Architecture
Rotterdam is renowned for its innovative and striking modern architecture. Key highlights include the Cube Houses, the Erasmus Bridge, and the Markthal. The city’s skyline features a blend of cutting-edge designs and futuristic buildings, making it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts and a symbol of post-war urban development.
Access from – Rotterdam
The Hague
The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government and the royal family, is known for its historic buildings, international courts, and embassies. Key attractions include the Peace Palace, the Binnenhof complex, and Mauritshuis Museum. The city combines political significance, cultural heritage, and seaside resorts like Scheveningen.
Access from – The Hague (Den Haag)
Utrecht’s Canals and Dom Tower
Utrecht’s canals are unique with their two-level design, featuring wharfs and waterfront cellars. The historic city centre is dominated by the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Visitors can enjoy canal-side cafes, explore medieval architecture, and climb the Dom Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Access from – Utrecht
Efteling Theme Park
Efteling is one of Europe’s largest and oldest theme parks, located in Kaatsheuvel. It features fairy tale-themed attractions, thrilling roller coasters, and enchanting rides. The park is divided into themed realms, offering immersive experiences for all ages. Efteling’s magical atmosphere and imaginative design make it a favourite family destination.
Access from – Kaatsheuvel
Kinderdijk Windmills
Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its 19 well-preserved windmills from the 18th century. Visitors can explore the scenic polder landscape, tour the inside of a working windmill, and learn about Dutch water management history. The windmills provide a picturesque glimpse into traditional Dutch engineering and rural life.
Access from – Kinderdijk
Giethoorn
Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a charming village with canals instead of streets. Visitors can explore this idyllic village by boat, cycle along narrow paths, and admire thatched-roof cottages. Giethoorn offers a peaceful retreat with its serene waterways and lush greenery, making it a unique and picturesque destination.
Access from – Giethoorn
Hoge Veluwe National Park
Hoge Veluwe National Park is the largest national park in the Netherlands, known for its diverse landscapes, including heathlands, forests, and sand dunes. Visitors can explore the park using free white bicycles, visit the Kröller-Müller Museum with its Van Gogh collection, and enjoy wildlife spotting, including deer and wild boar.
Access from – Otterlo
Delft
Delft is a historic city known for its picturesque canals, blue-and-white pottery, and connections to painter Johannes Vermeer. Visitors can explore the old town, visit the Royal Delft pottery factory, and see the Nieuwe Kerk with its royal tombs. Delft’s charming streets and cultural heritage offer a quintessential Dutch experience.
Access from – Delft
Friesland and the Frisian Lakes
Friesland is a northern province known for its distinct culture, language, and beautiful water landscapes. The Frisian Lakes are popular for boating, sailing, and water sports. Visitors can explore charming towns like Leeuwarden, experience traditional Frisian culture, and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquillity of this picturesque region.
Access from – Friesland (Leeuwarden, Sneek, etc.)
Map
See map of the Netherlands to review top attractions. For the best experience save locally to open with google maps/share with your friends to help plan your next adventure! Some locations are hidden behind others, click map to reveal full details:

Transport
The Netherlands offers excellent transport routes. The extensive and efficient train network, connects major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague, with frequent services. Regional buses and trams provide coverage within cities and to surrounding areas. Cycling is a popular and budget-friendly option, with well-maintained bike lanes and rental services available throughout the country. For longer distances, buses offer affordable intercity travel. Taxis are available but can be expensive; ride-hailing apps like Uber operate in major cities, providing a more convenient and cost-effective alternative for short trips.
Budget
Traveling in the Netherlands varies; budget travellers spend $60-$80 per day on hostels and cheap eats; mid-range travellers budget $120-$160 for hotels and dining out; luxury travellers may spend $250+ daily on upscale accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive experiences. Costs can be higher in major cities like Amsterdam.
Seasonality and Weather
The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and cool summers. Winter temperatures range from 0-5°C, 32-41°F, with occasional frost and rare snow. Summers are moderate, with temperatures ranging from 17-22°C, 63-72°F. Rain is frequent year-round, with spring and autumn being particularly unpredictable. Coastal areas like Amsterdam and Rotterdam have slightly milder winters and cooler summers compared to inland regions. The best time to visit is from April to October, especially in spring (April-May) when tulips bloom, and summer (June-August) when temperatures are warm and festivals abound, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Must Try Dishes



Language
The main language spoken is Dutch. Below are some key phrases (phonetic translation) to get you started. A big smile and a few words can get you a long way!


