The Netherlands
Polders, canals, dunes and cycle paths: the Netherlands has a rhythm of its own. Small in size, but full of character and unexpected places.
Get Out and About: Travel Tips for the Netherlands
The Netherlands may be small, but there’s a lot to discover. Wander through lively cities and historic villages, cycle along winding paths, escape to the dunes or forests, or hop over to one of the country’s islands. And then there’s the food: from cosy cafés to surprisingly good restaurants and characterful places to stay. We love getting out and exploring our own country, always looking for those places that make us stop and think, why didn’t we come here sooner? From city breaks and weekend escapes to nature getaways, discover our favourite places, personal experiences and practical tips for exploring the Netherlands.
Useful for your trip
Travel Inspiration for the Netherlands
Looking for a city break, weekend getaway or holiday in the Netherlands? Discover our favourite places, practical travel tips and inspiration for lively cities, beautiful nature, the coast and characterful places to eat and stay.
Travel Inspiration for the Netherlands
Looking for a city break, weekend getaway or holiday in the Netherlands? Discover our favourite places, practical travel tips and inspiration for lively cities, beautiful nature, the coast and characterful places to eat and stay.
Practical Tips for the Netherlands
The Netherlands is compact and easy to get around, but which places are right for your trip? In these FAQs, we answer practical questions about travelling through the Netherlands and share inspiration for cities, nature and quintessentially Dutch places.
What are the most beautiful cities to visit in the Netherlands?
That depends on what you're looking for. Amsterdam is known for its canals and museums, while Rotterdam is modern, and with very interesting architecture to discover. Also Utrecht, Delft, Leiden, The Hague, Breda and Den Bosch are great destinations for a city trip or a weekend getaway.
What are some beautiful places in the Dutch countryside?
The Veluwe is one of the Netherlands’ best-known natural areas and a wonderful place to explore on foot or by bike. But also the coast, Zeeland and Goeree-Overflakkee are great spots for anyone who wants to combine nature and the outdoors with city trips.
What is the best time to see the open-air tulip fields in full bloom in the Netherlands?
Tulip season usually runs from late March to early May, with April being the best time to see the fields in full bloom. The Bollenstreek, around Lisse, Hillegom and Noordwijk, is one of the most popular areas for seeing the famous Dutch tulip fields. In our article about the Bollenstreek we share tips on the best time to visit, our favourite spots and where to find the most beautiful flower fields.
What is there to do in the Veluwe?
The Veluwe is a great destination for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys being outdoors. Explore its forests and heathlands on foot or by bike, spot wildlife in the wild, and discover charming villages and beautiful nature reserves along the way. Check out our travel tips for the Veluwe for inspiration.
What are some typically Dutch places to visit?
Want to experience the Netherlands at its most typically Dutch? Visit places like the Windmills of Kinderdijk, the Zaanse Schans and the fishing village of Volendam. The colourful tulip fields, historic canals and classic Dutch polder landscapes are also part of what makes the Netherlands so distinctive.
What is there to do in Brabant?
Brabant is a great region for combining culture, nature and good food. Explore cities like Breda, ’s-Hertogenbosch and Eindhoven, then head into the countryside to discover a different side of the region. The Land van de Peel, for example, is a lovely area for hiking and cycling. Art and culture lovers can also follow in Vincent van Gogh’s footsteps at several places across Brabant. Get inspired by Our Tips for the Land van de Peel.
What are some fun day trips in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has plenty of unexpected experiences that are great for a day out. For example, hop into a classic 2CV and cruise through the Dutch countryside, visit the tallest windmills in the world in Schiedam or head to Zeeland to forage for oysters.
In our article with fun experiences in the Netherlands we’ve rounded up plenty more original ideas for a day out, a weekend getaway or a memorable experience.
