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When you think of the Netherlands, it’s easy to picture tulip fields, windmills, and charming canals. But there’s so much more to this small yet vibrant country! From bustling cities to serene countryside, the Netherlands offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended trip, here’s a guide to some of the best things to do while soaking up the Dutch charm.

amsterdamAmsterdam

 

hague and things to do in hagueHague

 

rotterdamRotterdam

Maastricht and THINGS TO DO IN MAASTRICHTMaastricht

 

1. Wander the Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an absolute must-visit, and its canals are the heartbeat of the city. Picture this: cobblestone streets, bicycles whizzing by, and rows of picturesque houses reflected in calm waters. Take a canal cruise for a unique perspective—these boat rides are a fantastic way to learn about the city’s history while gliding past iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum.

For a quieter vibe, grab a coffee from a cozy café and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp on foot. These areas are filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and hidden courtyards that feel worlds away from the busy city center.

2. Dive into Dutch Art and History

The Netherlands has a rich artistic heritage that will blow you away. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a treasure trove of masterpieces, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. Right next door, you’ll find the Van Gogh Museum, which offers an intimate look at the life and work of one of the world’s most beloved artists.

If you’re in The Hague, don’t miss the Mauritshuis Museum, home to Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. It’s a smaller museum, but every corner is packed with incredible works of art. And for something unique, the Escher Museum takes you into the mind-bending world of M.C. Escher’s optical illusions.

3. Bike Through the Countryside

If there’s one thing the Dutch are known for, it’s cycling. With flat terrain and over 35,000 kilometers of dedicated bike paths, the Netherlands is a cyclist’s paradise. Rent a bike and head out of the cities to explore the peaceful countryside.

One of the most iconic routes is through the tulip fields of Lisse, especially if you visit in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom. Another fantastic option is the Hoge Veluwe National Park, where you can ride through forests and spot wildlife like deer and wild boar.

4. Visit the Windmills at Kinderdijk

You can’t leave the Netherlands without seeing its famous windmills. Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best places to experience this quintessential Dutch landscape. With 19 historic windmills set against a backdrop of waterways, it’s like stepping into a painting.

Take a walk or bike ride along the paths, and if you’re curious about how windmills work, you can step inside a couple of them to learn about their history and mechanics. The views are especially magical during sunrise or sunset when the light reflects off the water.

5. Explore Delft’s Blue Charm

Delft is a delightful city with a cozy, small-town feel. Famous for its blue and white pottery, this historic town is full of charm. Stroll along the canals and visit the Royal Delft factory to see how the iconic ceramics are made.

Delft is also the birthplace of painter Johannes Vermeer, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of nods to his work around town. Be sure to climb the tower of the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) for panoramic views of the city and beyond.

6. Taste Dutch Delicacies

Let’s talk about food—because the Netherlands has some unique treats you can’t miss! Start with stroopwafels, a thin waffle cookie filled with gooey caramel syrup. You’ll find them everywhere, from street markets to cafés.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try raw herring, often served with onions and pickles. Don’t worry—it tastes better than it sounds! And, of course, there’s Dutch cheese. Visit a market in towns like Gouda or Alkmaar to sample a variety of cheeses, from creamy young gouda to aged varieties with a rich, nutty flavor.

For something heartier, go for bitterballen—deep-fried balls of savory beef ragout. Pair them with a cold beer, and you’re in for a treat!

7. Discover the Modern Charms of Rotterdam

Rotterdam is like the cool younger sibling of Amsterdam. Known for its modern architecture and vibrant vibe, it’s a city that feels completely different from the rest of the country. Check out the Markthal, a massive indoor market with a stunning ceiling mural and dozens of food stalls to explore.

Don’t miss the Cube Houses, an architectural marvel that you can even step inside to see how people live in these quirky, tilted homes. For panoramic views, head to the Euromast observation tower, where you can see the city’s skyline and even go zip-lining if you’re feeling brave!

8. Experience Dutch Beach Life

Yes, the Netherlands has beaches! The coastline stretches for miles, and the North Sea offers some beautiful spots for a seaside escape. Scheveningen, near The Hague, is one of the most popular beach towns, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and even a Ferris wheel on the pier.

If you’re looking for something quieter, head to Zandvoort or Texel, one of the Wadden Islands. These spots are perfect for long walks along the dunes or simply relaxing with the sound of the waves.

9. Admire the Tulip Fields

The tulip fields are perhaps the most iconic image of the Netherlands, and they truly live up to the hype. The best time to see them is from mid-March to mid-May, with April being peak bloom season.

The Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse are the most famous spot, showcasing millions of flowers in stunning arrangements. But if you want to avoid crowds, consider renting a bike and exploring the surrounding fields at your own pace.

10. Step Back in Time at Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is like an open-air museum where history comes to life. This charming village features traditional Dutch houses, working windmills, and artisan workshops. You can see clogs being made, taste freshly made cheese, and watch artisans craft wooden goods—all while soaking in the picturesque scenery.

It’s a great day trip from Amsterdam and perfect for families or anyone curious about traditional Dutch life.

11. Attend a Local Festival

The Dutch love a good celebration, and there’s always something happening! If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss King’s Day (Koningsdag), a nationwide party with music, street markets, and people dressed in orange. It’s one of the liveliest events of the year.

In the winter, Christmas markets light up towns like Maastricht and Valkenburg, adding a magical touch to the holiday season. And for something truly unique, check out the Elfstedentocht, a famous ice-skating race that happens (weather permitting) along frozen canals.

10 Must-Have Apps for Visitors to the Netherlands

Traveling to the Netherlands? Whether you’re exploring Amsterdam’s canals, cycling through tulip fields, or indulging in Dutch cheese, having the right apps on your phone can make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free. Here’s a curated list of must-have apps for navigating, dining, sightseeing, and more in the Netherlands.

1. NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen)

For: Public transport and train schedules

The NS app is your go-to for navigating the Dutch rail system. It provides real-time information on train schedules, routes, delays, and platform changes. The Netherlands is well-connected by trains, so whether you’re hopping between Amsterdam and Rotterdam or heading to smaller towns, this app is essential.

Features:

  • Live departure and arrival times
  • Journey planner for multi-modal travel
  • Mobile ticket purchases

2. 9292

For: All public transport (buses, trams, and metro)

If you’re relying on public transport beyond trains, 9292 is a lifesaver. It covers all forms of transport, including buses, trams, metros, and ferries. Simply enter your destination, and the app provides step-by-step directions.

Features:

  • Door-to-door route planning
  • Real-time updates on delays
  • Integration with OV-chipkaart (public transport card)

3. Google Maps

For: Navigation and exploring neighborhoods

Google Maps is a global staple, but it’s particularly handy in the Netherlands. Whether you’re wandering through Amsterdam’s maze of canals or navigating Rotterdam’s modern streets, it offers reliable walking, cycling, and driving directions. You can also discover nearby attractions, restaurants, and public transport stops.

Pro Tip: Download offline maps of major cities for easy access when you’re without Wi-Fi.

4. Uber

For: On-demand rides

While the Netherlands has an excellent public transport system, there may be times when you need a quick ride. Uber operates in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. It’s especially useful late at night or when carrying heavy luggage.

Alternatives: In Amsterdam, you can also try TCA Taxi, a reliable local taxi service app.

5. GetYourGuide

For: Tours and activities

Want to explore the Anne Frank House, cruise Amsterdam’s canals, or visit the tulip fields of Keukenhof? GetYourGuide is the perfect app for booking tours and tickets in advance. Many activities also come with skip-the-line options, saving you precious time.

Features:

  • Wide range of tours, activities, and tickets
  • Instant booking confirmation
  • Reviews and recommendations from travelers

6. Too Good To Go

For: Affordable, sustainable food options

Foodies on a budget will love Too Good To Go. This app lets you buy surplus food from restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores at a discounted price. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh Dutch treats while reducing food waste.

Features:

  • Daily deals on meals and snacks
  • Pick-up points at various locations
  • Surprise “magic bags” with mixed food items

7. iAmsterdam City Card

For: Sightseeing and discounts

If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions in Amsterdam, this app is a must. The iAmsterdam City Card gives you free entry to museums, unlimited public transport within the city, and discounts on restaurants and tours. The app also helps you plan your itinerary.

Features:

  • Digital City Card integration
  • List of included attractions
  • Maps and planning tools

8. Flitsmeister

For: Driving in the Netherlands

If you’re renting a car to explore the Dutch countryside or visit smaller towns, Flitsmeister is a fantastic companion. It’s like a combination of Google Maps and Waze, offering real-time traffic updates, speed camera alerts, and navigation.

Features:

  • Alerts for speed cameras and traffic incidents
  • Route guidance and live traffic updates
  • Information about parking availability

9. Albert Heijn App

For: Grocery shopping

Planning to cook your own meals or just want to grab snacks? Albert Heijn is one of the largest supermarket chains in the Netherlands. Their app allows you to locate the nearest store, browse products, and even scan items for self-checkout.

Features:

  • Store locator
  • Weekly discounts and deals
  • Shopping list creator

10. Duolingo

For: Learning basic Dutch phrases

While many Dutch people speak excellent English, learning a few Dutch phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience. Use Duolingo to pick up basics like greetings, numbers, and common expressions. Locals will appreciate your effort!

Features:

  • Bite-sized Dutch lessons
  • Fun and interactive exercises
  • Offline learning options
Bonus Apps:
  • Thuisbezorgd.nl: A food delivery app to satisfy cravings for local dishes or international cuisine. Think of it as the Dutch version of Uber Eats.
  • Parkmobile: For paying parking fees in cities.
  • Museumkaart: A must for museum enthusiasts—it provides access to over 400 museums across the Netherlands.
Final Tips:

Make sure to have a stable internet connection during your trip by getting a local SIM card or eSIM or a portable Wi-Fi device. Most of these apps work seamlessly with internet access, and having them on hand will make your visit to the Netherlands smoother, more enjoyable, and well-organized. Enjoy your Dutch adventure! 🌷

Final Thoughts

The Netherlands is a country that invites exploration, whether you’re strolling through vibrant cities, biking past tulip fields, or savoring Dutch treats. Its compact size makes it easy to travel between destinations, so you can pack a lot into your trip without feeling rushed.

Most importantly, take the time to soak in the gezelligheid—a Dutch word that captures the feeling of coziness, friendliness, and good vibes. Whether you’re chatting with locals in a café or enjoying a quiet moment by a canal, that’s the magic of the Netherlands. Happy travels! 🌷