Netherlands

The Netherlands, also known as Holland, is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or quaint villages, there’s plenty to discover in this densely populated country. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip by providing information on what to see, where to go, the best attractions, weather, transportation, food, a suggested travel itinerary for each day, and tips for tourists.

What to See and Where to Go

The Netherlands offers a wide range of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Here are some must-see places:

• Amsterdam: Visit the canals, the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the lively Jordaan district. Don’t miss Dam Square and the Royal Palace.
• The Hague: Explore the International Court of Justice, admire the beautiful architecture, and visit the Mauritshuis museum.
• Utrecht: Discover the Dom Tower, the unique canals with wharf cellars, and the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Maastricht: Located in the southern part of the country, Maastricht is known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
• Giethoorn: Dubbed the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a village without roads, relying on canals for transportation.

Best Attractions

• Keukenhof Gardens: A must-visit in spring to witness millions of blooming tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
• Zaanse Schans: An open-air museum showcasing traditional Dutch windmills, houses, and crafts.
• Kinderdijk: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 19 windmills that are part of the country’s water management system.
• Volendam and Edam: These charming fishing villages are renowned for their cheese markets and picturesque views.

Weather

The Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 17-20°C (63-68°F). Winters are cold, but not extremely so, with average temperatures ranging from 2-6°C (36-43°F). Rainfall is frequent, so be prepared and pack accordingly.

Transportation

The Netherlands has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The train network, operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), is highly reliable and connects most cities and towns. Renting a bike is also a popular and practical way to get around, especially in cities like Amsterdam. For longer distances, consider renting a car, although keep in mind that parking can be expensive in urban areas.

Food

While Dutch cuisine may not have the same international acclaim as French or Italian cuisine, it offers delightful surprises. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Stroopwafels: Thin waffles with a delicious caramel-like syrup filling.
• Haring: Raw herring, often served with onions and pickles.
• Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes typically enjoyed with butter and powdered sugar.
• Gouda and Edam: Renowned Dutch cheeses that are a real treat.

7-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Amsterdam

Explore the canals, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. Take a walk through the Jordaan district and visit Dam Square.

Day 2: Amsterdam and Hoorn

Start your day with a pancake breakfast on the Pannekokenboot. Then take a train to Hoorn to see its historical architecture and visit the Westfries Museum.

Day 3: Tulips and Windmills

Rent a car and drive to the tulip fields around Lisse. Afterward, visit Zaanse Schans to see traditional windmills and Dutch crafts.

Day 4: The Hague

Take a train to The Hague. Don’t miss the Mauritshuis museum, Binnenhof, and Noordeinde Palace. If the weather is good, spend some time at Scheveningen beach.

Day 5: Maastricht

Travel to Maastricht by train. Explore the city’s medieval architecture, including the Basilica of Saint Servatius, and visit the Bonnefanten Museum.

Day 6: Giethoorn

Visit the car-free village of Giethoorn. Rent a boat to navigate the canals and enjoy the peaceful landscape.

Day 7: Utrecht

Head to Utrecht to see the Dom Tower and its unique canals. Visit the Centraal Museum and the Rietveld Schröder House.

Tips for Tourists

• Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
• Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency, and most places accept credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash.
• Safety: The Netherlands is generally safe, but be cautious of cyclists when walking in cities.
• Accommodation: Book your accommodations in advance, especially in popular cities like Amsterdam.
• Local Etiquette: Dutch people value punctuality and directness. Tipping is appreciated but not required; rounding up the bill is usually sufficient.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to experience the diverse and captivating attractions that the Netherlands has to offer. Happy travels!