Netherlands

The Netherlands offers much more than just Amsterdam and windmills. This comprehensive Netherlands travel guide will help you uncover an incredible country where modern architecture stands alongside historic canals, and innovative technologies seamlessly blend with centuries-old traditions.

Key Highlights

• Tulip Season and Keukenhof Gardens — For just 8 weeks each year (March 20 – May 11), 7 million bulbs bloom across 32 hectares. Entrance tickets are €22; to avoid crowds, visit before 10:30 AM or after 4:00 PM.
• Simplified Transport System — Enjoy contactless payment with bank cards on all public transport and automatic distance-based pricing. Train fares range from €15-20 to Rotterdam and €4-5 to Haarlem.
• Cycling Culture — With 23 million bicycles for 17 million residents, rentals are available for €10-15 per day. The main rule: never walk on bike paths.
• Museum Classics with Advance Booking — Admission fees are €25 for the Rijksmuseum (online only), €24 for the Van Gogh Museum, and €16 for the Anne Frank House (book weeks in advance). A Museum Pass for €69.90 becomes worthwhile after visiting 3-4 museums.
• Affordable Alternatives to Amsterdam — Visit Haarlem, just 15 minutes by train, where prices are 30-40% lower than in the capital. Utrecht offers excellent transport connections, while Amsterdam hostels range from €40-60 per night.
• Unique Attractions — Explore Kinderdijk with its 19 18th-century windmills (€19.50), wander through Giethoorn, a village without roads, with electric boats (€12.50/hour), and discover the underground caves of Maastricht (€7.75).

Article Overview

This guide offers detailed information for planning your trip to the land of canals, windmills, and tulips. It covers every aspect of travel to the Netherlands, from ideal visiting times to hidden gems off the beaten path.

What this Netherlands travel guide includes:

• Seasonal planning — spring for tulips, summer for festivals, autumn-winter for museums.
• Transportation — the new contactless payment system, cycling culture, practical tips.
• Top 20 destinations — from classic Amsterdam to unique Giethoorn and the student city of Groningen.
• Accommodation options — alternatives to expensive lodging in the capital with specific price ranges.
• Gastronomy — from traditional stroopwafels to the brown café culture.
• A 7-day itinerary — a ready-made travel plan that optimizes time and budget.

When to Visit the Netherlands

Spring (March-May) — Tulip Season and Awakening

Spring is a magical time for Netherlands tourism. From mid-March to May, the country transforms into a vast blooming garden, with Keukenhof tulips attracting over 1.4 million visitors annually.

When planning your trip to see the Keukenhof tulips, keep the following in mind:

• The park is open for only 8 weeks each year (typically March 20 to May 11), and tickets sell out quickly.
• An entrance ticket costs €22, and a combo ticket with transport is €36.50.
• To avoid crowds, plan your visit before 10:30 AM or after 4:00 PM.

King’s Day (April 27) — a national holiday when the entire country dresses in orange. However, this period coincides with peak tourist season, leading to higher prices and larger crowds.

Summer (June-August) — Festivals and Beaches

The summer months are appealing due to warm weather and a plethora of cultural programs. Tourism in the Netherlands reaches its peak during this season, marked by major festivals and the bustling activity of all North Sea beaches.

Air temperatures rarely exceed 25°C, making for comfortable walks. However, be prepared for rain, which is not uncommon even in summer.

Autumn and Winter — Museum Season and Authenticity

What to see in the Netherlands from October to February? Primarily museums and other indoor attractions. With significantly fewer tourists, prices drop, and the charm of Christmas markets adds to the experience.

Transport: How to Get Around the Netherlands

OV-chipkaart vs. Contactless Payment

As of 2023, the Netherlands has introduced contactless payment using bank cards across all public transport. This greatly simplifies the experience for tourists—there’s no need to hassle with the OV-chipkaart for an extra euro.

Using the system is straightforward: tap your card on the reader when entering and exiting. The cost of your trip is calculated automatically based on distance. For instance, a train journey from Amsterdam to Rotterdam costs around €15-20, while a trip to Haarlem ranges from €4-5.

Bicycles: Caution is Key

The country boasts 23 million bicycles for its 17 million residents. While bike paths are abundant, they can pose challenges for tourists. Dutch cyclists have been riding since childhood, resulting in very fast and intense traffic.

Bike rentals typically cost €10-15 per day but are recommended only for experienced cyclists. The main rule is to never walk on bike paths; otherwise, you may encounter angry shouts from locals.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in the Netherlands

Alternatives to Expensive Amsterdam

You can enjoy Amsterdam’s attractions while staying in nearby cities. Haarlem is just 15 minutes away by train, and hotel prices there are 30-40% lower. Utrecht is another excellent option, offering good transport connections.

Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially between April and September, as even hostels in Amsterdam can cost between €40-60 per night.

Top 20 Must-Visit Places in the Netherlands

Amsterdam — Heart of the Netherlands

Begin your journey with the 17th-century canal system, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 165 canals and 1,281 bridges, Amsterdam’s unique urban fabric captivates visitors.

The city’s classic trio of museums is a must:

• Rijksmuseum — A national treasure featuring Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “Milkmaid.” Tickets are €25 and must be purchased online with a selected time slot. Plan for a minimum of 3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
• Van Gogh Museum — Home to the largest collection of the artist’s works. Admission is €24, or €27.75 with an audio guide. The compact exhibition lasts 1-2 hours, but expect crowds near the most famous pieces.
• Anne Frank House — Reservations are required several weeks in advance, with tickets priced at €16 for adults.

Don’t miss the hidden gems of Amsterdam. The Amsterdam City Archives is a free museum showcasing stunning interiors and historical exhibitions. The “Our Lord in the Attic” Museum features a secret 17th-century Catholic church nestled in a regular house.

Kinderdijk — Symbol of the Netherlands

Discover 19 historic 18th-century windmills, essential to the country’s water management system. Built in 1740 to combat floods, these windmills continue to serve their purpose today.

Entrance is €19.50 for adults and €8 for children. You can explore inside a windmill and witness the living quarters of the millers. The site is easily accessible via water bus from Rotterdam (€4 one way) or by bus from Molendijk station.

Keukenhof — Garden of Europe

Seven million bulbs transform 32 hectares into a vibrant living canvas every spring. Each October, new arrangements are planted, ensuring the park offers a fresh look each year.

The tulip’s history in the Netherlands began in the 16th century when bulbs were imported from Turkey. By the 1630s, “tulip mania” — the first recorded economic bubble — led to bulbs costing as much as houses in Amsterdam.

Admission fees are €20 for adults and €9 for children aged 4-17.

Zaanse Schans — Living History

Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, this open-air museum showcases life in the 18th and 19th centuries. With 13 working windmills, cheese-making workshops, and traditional houses, guests can witness the heritage of modern Dutch ancestors.

Access to the village is free, while individual museums and workshops charge €4-8. Be sure to visit the wooden shoe workshop and cheese dairy. Restored windmills produce mustard, paints, and oils using traditional methods.

Giethoorn — “Northern Venice”

Experience a village without roads, where boats are the primary mode of transport. With 180 bridges connecting thatched-roof farms, “whisper boats” — electric vessels that glide silently along the canals — create a tranquil atmosphere.

Boat rental costs €12.50 per hour, while a guided tour is priced at €12.50 per person. The best time to visit is on weekdays before 10:00 AM, when tourist buses have not yet arrived. Parking is free, a rarity in tourist areas of the Netherlands.

Rotterdam — City of the Future

After being destroyed in World War II, Rotterdam rebuilt itself, showcasing modern architecture. Piet Blom’s Cube Houses resemble fallen cubes, and within one of them is a museum.

The Markthal, a covered market featuring a giant fresco on its ceiling, has become a new icon of the city. Here, you can sample Dutch delicacies as well as cuisine from around the world.

Rotterdam Port, the largest in Europe, can be explored through a Spido boat excursion, which lasts 75 minutes and costs €17.50 for adults. This tour highlights the scale of the maritime terminals.

Delft — City of Vermeer

The birthplace of painter Jan Vermeer, Delft preserves the atmosphere of the Golden Age. Narrow canals reflect medieval houses, and workshops continue to produce the famous blue-and-white ceramics.

The Royal Delft Museum showcases the entire porcelain creation process, from molding to painting. Entrance tickets cost €14 for adults, and masters demonstrate their craft while explaining the secrets of their art.

The New Church, with its 108-meter tower, serves as the burial place for the royal family. Climbing the tower (€5) offers a panoramic view of the historic center.

Haarlem — “Little Amsterdam”

Just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem offers a distinctly different atmosphere. The St. Bavo Church houses the organ on which a young Mozart played. Concerts are held every Thursday at 20:15 and Saturday at 15:15, with tickets priced at €5.

Adriaan Mill is the only remaining city windmill, and tours are conducted on Saturdays, with entrance fees of €7.50 for adults and €3.50 for children.

Haarlem also serves as an excellent base for trips to North Sea beaches, with Zandvoort just 20 minutes away by bus.

Maastricht — Most “Un-Dutch” City

Located on the borders of Belgium and Germany, Maastricht boasts a 2000-year history. Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and hilly landscapes create an atmosphere that feels distinctly non-Dutch.

Vrijthof Square, home to the St. Servatius Basilica, is the heart of the old city. In December, it hosts one of Europe’s finest Christmas markets.

The St. Peter’s Underground Caves, which offer tours for €7.75, were used for shelter during wars and served as a site for marl extraction for construction.

Utrecht — Student City

At 112 meters, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Climbing the 465 steps (€12) rewards you with a panoramic view of the entire city.

Utrecht’s unique feature is its two-level canals, which host cafes and restaurants on the lower level. A boat ride (€12.50) offers a different perspective of the city.

Just 15 minutes outside the city lies De Haar Castle, the largest in the Netherlands. Entrance is €18, which includes access to the castle’s park and interiors. The castle is surrounded by a picturesque English park featuring a rose garden and a maze.

Volendam — Traditional Fishing Village

The picturesque waterfront, adorned with colorful houses and fishing boats, epitomizes a classic Dutch landscape. Traditional costumes are worn here not only for tourists; locals genuinely preserve centuries-old customs.

The main attraction is herring tasting right on the waterfront. The proper way to eat herring is to hold it by the tail and drop the whole fish into your mouth. For those who are not quite ready for that, herring served in bread with onions is available.

A visit to St. Vincent Church, notable for its characteristic red brick facade and rich interiors, is highly recommended. Entrance is free.

Edam — City of Famous Cheese

With 176 national monuments, Edam is an open-air museum in itself. The 17th-century St. Nicholas Church features an impressive area of 550 square meters of stained glass, making it one of the largest in Holland.

From July to August, Wednesdays are dedicated to theatrical cheese markets that recreate a medieval market atmosphere. Traders in historical costumes sell traditional Edam cheese with its distinctive red wax rind.

Edam offers a quieter experience than the tourist-heavy Volendam while maintaining its picturesque charm. Visitors can stroll leisurely along the canals and soak in the authentic Dutch atmosphere.

Marken — Island Museum

Once an island, now connected to the mainland by a dam, Marken has preserved its unique architecture, including houses on stilts and traditional green wooden buildings. National costumes continue to be part of daily life here.

Marken Lighthouse, built in 1839, serves as a symbol of the island and an excellent observation deck. Climbing the lighthouse costs €3, but the views of the IJsselmeer are well worth it.

The best way to reach Marken is by ferry from Volendam (€9 round trip, 30 minutes), which offers beautiful views and feels like a mini-cruise.

Leiden — City of Rembrandt and University

Home to the Netherlands’ oldest university, established in 1575, Leiden has become a center of science and education. The historic Academiegebouw, dating back to the 15th century, is where dissertation defenses and ceremonial events take place.

Rapenburg Canal is considered the most beautiful in the country, and a must-see is Leiden’s narrowest house, squeezed between two ordinary buildings.

Museum Boerhaave features a unique collection of scientific instruments and medical exhibits. An entrance ticket costs €13, while children’s tickets are €5.50. The Leiden jar and anatomical specimens leave a strong impression.

Burcht fortress, dating back to the 11th century and situated on a hill at the confluence of two Rhine branches, offers a free observation deck with views of the Gothic Hooglandse Kerk.

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Groningen — Cycling Capital

In Groningen, 60% of transportation is by bicycle, contributing to the city’s unique atmosphere. The main station, recognized as the most beautiful in the Netherlands in 2019, is a project by Isaac Gosschalk that features neo-Gothic and neo-Renaissance styles.

The Martini Tower, rising to 97 meters, is a city symbol. Climbing its 251 steps rewards visitors with a panoramic view of northern Holland. Entrance to the tower is €5 for adults.

The Groningen Museum, dedicated to contemporary art, is housed in a striking building designed by Italian architect Mendini — a must-visit for modern art enthusiasts.

As a university city, Groningen exudes a vibrant student atmosphere, with numerous cafes, bars, and cultural events.

The Hague — Political Capital

UN International Court of Justice, International Criminal Court, royal residence — The Hague plays a key role in world politics. The Peace Palace is open for tours at a cost of €12.

Mauritshuis is an art jewel featuring Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and masterpieces by Rembrandt. Tickets are priced at €19 for adults.

Scheveningen Beach, with its pier and Ferris wheel, serves as the Netherlands’ maritime gateway. Visitors can surf or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade.

Eindhoven — City of Design and Technology

Eindhoven, the birthplace of Philips, has transformed into a hub of innovation and design. The Design Academy Eindhoven is recognized as one of the best in the world.

The Strijp-S District, a former industrial area, has evolved into a creative cluster. The red brick Philips buildings now house studios, galleries, and trendy restaurants.

Piet Hein Eek’s studio and shop is a must-visit for design enthusiasts. The famous Dutch designer crafts furniture from recycled materials right before visitors’ eyes.

Alkmaar — City of Cheese

Every Friday from April to September, a traditional cheese market takes place at Weighing Square. This lively event features actors in white costumes, creating a theatrical atmosphere.

The historic Weighing House, dating back to the 16th century, serves as a museum for cheese and guilds. An entrance ticket costing €5 includes a tasting of local cheese varieties.

The Beer Museum pays homage to the city’s brewing heritage. Alkmaar has been producing beer since the 14th century, and several craft breweries are currently operational in the area.

Dordrecht — Holland’s Oldest City

Dordrecht was granted city rights in 1220, making it the oldest city in the Netherlands. The historic harbor, adorned with museum ships, transports visitors back to the era of maritime trade.

The Grote Kerk, with its 108-meter tower visible from all parts of the city, features unique 17th-century choirs preserved within.

Biesbosch National Park, also known as the “Dutch Amazon,” offers canoe routes and showcases a unique floodplain forest ecosystem.

Texel — Netherlands’ Largest Island

With 25 kilometers of beaches, a dune national park, and unique natural features, Texel is perfect for ecotourism. A ferry from the mainland operates hourly at a cost of €2.50 for pedestrians.

Ecomare Seal Rescue Center is the only place in the Netherlands where visitors can see these marine mammals up close. An entrance ticket is priced at €10.

Sheep farms on the island produce the famous Texel cheese, while the local brewery, Texels, brews beer using the island’s water.

Gastronomic Discoveries

Traditional Dutch Cuisine

The attractions of the Netherlands extend beyond museums to include its unique cuisine. Pannenkoeken, Dutch pancakes served in a plate-size format, can be found with a variety of unexpected toppings, ranging from cheese and bacon to apples with cinnamon. The best pannenkoeken are prepared in specialized restaurants known as pannenkoekenhuizen.

Stroopwafels were invented in Gouda in the 18th century. These thin waffles filled with caramel are best enjoyed fresh, when the caramel is still warm and gooey. Street vendors sell them for €1 to €2 each.

Dutch cheeses deserve special attention. Gouda and Edam are just the tip of the iceberg. At markets, you can sample dozens of varieties, ranging from young and soft to aged and sharp. Traditional cheese markets in Alkmaar (Fridays) and Gouda (Thursdays) transform cheese buying into a theatrical performance.

Herring is a national snack, eaten in a unique way: you hold it by the tail and drop the whole thing into your mouth. Beginners are encouraged to try herring in bread with onions, which is an easier introduction to the taste.

Street Food and Snacks

FEBO automatons are a unique Dutch invention. These hot snack vending machines allow you to insert coins for croquettes or bitterballen. This isn’t just fast food but a part of national culture.

Croquettes are made from ragout, breaded, and deep-fried. Bitterballen—similar to croquettes but round—make a perfect beer snack. Quality croquettes should be crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Bread with butter and colored sprinkles (hagelslag) is a traditional Dutch breakfast. Adults enjoy this treat without any embarrassment, and the sprinkles come in chocolate, fruit, or anise flavors.

Drinks and Culture

The Dutch consume an average of 2.4 cups of coffee daily, one of the highest rates in the world. Here, coffee is strong and often enjoyed with cookies or small pastries.

Brown cafés (bruine cafés) are the Dutch equivalent of English pubs. Their walls and ceilings are darkened from centuries of tobacco smoke, creating a cozy atmosphere. Local beer and jenever—Dutch gin—are served in these establishments.

Jenever is considered the ancestor of gin. It’s typically served in small tulip-shaped glasses and often chased with beer. Old jenever (oude) has a richer taste, while young jenever (jonge) is milder.

7-Day Netherlands Itinerary

Day 1-2: Amsterdam

Start with the classics: Explore Amsterdam’s attractions on foot and by canal boat. Dedicate the first day to the Rijksmuseum and a walk around the city center. On the second day, visit the Van Gogh and Anne Frank museums, along with the cozy cafés in the Jordaan district.

Day 3: Haarlem + Beaches

Take a morning train to Haarlem (15 minutes) to see the city center and St. Bavo Church. After lunch, head to Zandvoort beach.

Day 4: Keukenhof or Zaanse Schans

During tulip season, definitely visit Keukenhof. At other times, consider Zaanse Schans, where you can see windmills and traditional crafts.

Day 5: Delft + Rotterdam

In the morning, explore historic Delft and its ceramic workshops. In the afternoon, move on to the futuristic city of Rotterdam.

Day 6: Utrecht + De Haar Castle

Visit the Dom Tower and Utrecht’s two-level canals, then head to the fairytale-like De Haar Castle.

Day 7: Giethoorn or Maastricht

Choose romantic Giethoorn for nature and tranquility, or historic Maastricht for great architecture and gastronomy.

Practical Tips

Purchase a Museum Pass (€69.90 per year) for access to multiple museums—this pays off after visiting 3-4 museums and provides queue-jump privileges. Download the 9292 app for public transport trip planning.

Expert Review of Netherlands Travel

The Netherlands is an amazing country where everyone can find something appealing, but it’s essential to plan your trip carefully. The main tourist mistake is focusing solely on Amsterdam. Haarlem, Delft, and Utrecht offer an authentic Dutch atmosphere without the crowds and inflated prices. In spring, it’s wise to reserve an extra day for rain, as the weather can be unpredictable and plans may change dramatically.

The transport system is quite convenient, especially after the introduction of contactless payments. However, cycling is a different story. Many tourists underestimate the intensity of cycling traffic and find themselves in unpleasant situations. If you’re not confident in your cycling skills, it’s better to use public transport, which runs like clockwork. Museums are worth the investment, but be sure to book in advance, particularly for the Anne Frank House. The Museum Pass pays off quickly and saves you from long queues, which is especially important during high season.

Popular Tourist Questions Answered

How Much Money to Bring?

The Netherlands can be expensive, but prices are predictable. A café lunch ranges from €15-25, while a restaurant dinner costs around €30-50 per person. Museum entry fees typically range from €15-25, and public transport fares are €2-4 per city trip. Budget around €100-150 per person per day, including accommodation.

Do I Need to Know Dutch?

Not at all. The Dutch are fluent in English, often better than many native speakers. In tourist areas, you’ll frequently encounter speakers of other European languages as well.

How Can I Avoid Tourist Crowds?

Visit on weekdays, particularly from Tuesday to Thursday. Go to popular attractions early in the morning or close to closing time. Explore lesser-known areas, such as Amsterdam Noord, or visit small towns like Monnickendam.

Is the Netherlands Safe?

It is very safe. The main concerns are petty theft in tourist areas and cyclists who might collide with inattentive pedestrians. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking on bike paths.

What to See in the Netherlands Beyond Popular Routes?

Texel is the largest island, featuring unique nature and sheep farms. Eindhoven is a hub for modern design and technology. Leiden, a university city, boasts a rich history, while Hoge Veluwe National Park offers stunning natural landscapes and free white bicycles.

Is it Worth Renting a Car?

Not in cities — parking is expensive (€5-7 per hour), and you may encounter traffic jams and complex rules. However, renting a car is convenient for trips to the countryside, especially for visiting tulip fields more freely.

What Should I Do if It Rains?

Rain is a frequent guest in the Netherlands year-round. Plan indoor activities such as museums, shopping centers, and covered markets. Many cafés and restaurants also offer covered terraces. Invest in a quality raincoat, as umbrellas often break in the wind here.

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