Explore the enchanting land of Netherlands with our comprehensive guide on the top things to do. Discover iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and hidden gems that promise an unforgettable experience. Netherlands, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of experiences for travelers.
Best Things to Do in Netherlands
From iconic windmills to captivating museums, this European gem beckons adventurers to immerse themselves in its charm. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the 11 most captivating things to do in Netherlands.
1. Visit Europe's largest flower garden
Keukenhof is one of the world's most famous gardens, with 32 acres of perfectly manicured displays on the Lisse, with themed pavilions, special events and, of course, a very, very photogenic windmill.
And, with more than 7 million flowers on display, it may also be Europe's largest flower garden, making it a unique Netherlands must-see if you can catch its opening season between late March and mid-May.
While it's most common to do Keukenhof as a day trip from Amsterdam, I'd recommend staying overnight in the area and exploring other nearby tulip-y attractions like the Tulip Barn (where you can enjoy your tulip experience. In some cases, which (much to the dismay of many visitors) Not really something you can do at Keukenhof.
2. Frolic among the world's largest producers of tulips
The Netherlands and tulips – perhaps one of the most iconic pairings in the world of tourism.
And for good reason! The Netherlands is the world's largest producer of tulip bulbs, and every spring the Dutch countryside produces vibrant, satisfying rows of pinks, yellows, oranges, purples and reds.
As mentioned above, getting Keukenhof tickets is a great bet if you're looking for a floral display that includes tulips, but for those looking for these expansive photogenic fields, you'll need to look elsewhere.
Fortunately, the Netherlands has many free tulip fields to view from afar, but if you want to get up close and personal for whimsical photos, there are now 'photo-ready' farms that were created for this purpose (thus guaranteeing commercial tulip fields for chickpeas). not trampled by tourists).
I recently visited the Tulip Barn in Hillegom, and had the best time wandering through the fields and taking advantage of all their beautiful photo installations. There is also Tulips Experience Amsterdam which offers the same thing.
It's both a great way to take photos and explore the dreamy Dutch tulip fields you've no doubt seen time and time again on social media.
3. Explore a beautiful car-free village full of canals
The Dutch village of Giethoorn is famous for its lack of roads, making it a 'car-free' village to travel by boat, bike or on foot.
On my first visit to Giethoorn, I called it a photogenic cross between Venice and Hobbiton. Picture a collection of unique storybook houses lining dreamy canals, all with cute details like heart-shaped holes in their shutters or fluffy flower bushes, you'd think Pixar designed them.
A visit to this beautiful destination is definitely one of the most unique things to do in the Netherlands.
Now, there is a lot to do in Giethoorn, but my biggest tip is: book an overnight stay and explore early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the day trip crowds. I warn you, there are a lot of them.
4. See the world's largest collection of Van Gogh art
Known as one of the best things to do in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's art, with 200 paintings, 400 drawings and 700 letters from the artist.
This museum is a must-see for any hard-core Van Gogh fan, especially if you want to see the originals of many of his famous pieces, including one of his "Sunflowers" iterations, "Almond Blossoms" and "The Potato." eater."
The Van Gogh Museum is the most visited museum in the Netherlands, with over 2.3 million visitors each year. Make sure you book your tickets in advance so that you don't have to wait in huge queues to enter.
5. Admire art from Dutch masters (in their country)
Small as it may be, the Netherlands has blessed the world with some of the most famous names in art history: from the aforementioned Van Gogh and Dutch Golden Age masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer to modern names like Mondrian.
As such, it should come as little surprise that while the country has so much to offer art enthusiasts, museums abound for art intellectuals.
Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam - A remarkable overview of Dutch history and art, with thousands of items on display
The Hague's Kunstmuseum den Haag - An extensive collection of modern art, including the world's largest collection of Mondrians
The Mauritshuis in The Hague – home to a large collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings
Museum Het Rembrandthuis in Amsterdam - a collection of works by Rembrandt van Rijn in his former home and studio
6. Visit the world's first museum branch at an airport
Amsterdam Schiphol (the international airport just outside Amsterdam) is home to the first museum to open inside the airport.
This lovely little museum is a collaboration with the Rijksmuseum, so even if you don't have time to visit the actual Rijksmuseum, you can see some of the Dutch master's work at the airport.
The Rijksmuseum is located on Holland Boulevard at Schiphol Airport, which is through security. It is open 24/7 and features rotating exhibitions on different themes, but always with a small collection of beautiful works from the Rijksmuseum. Best of all? It's completely free to visit!
7. Enjoy hot snacks right off the wall
Vending machines can be found all over the world, but the Dutch phenomenon of automatics is unique to the country and what a great invention they are.
Imagine this: you're wandering the streets of your latest Dutch destination, hungry from all the sights. In the distance, you see a glimmer of hope – a wall of gluttonous fast food, beckoning you from their cute individual cubbies.
You insert a coin (or in more modern times, tap your card) and boom – the drawer opens to reveal a deep-fried treat, hot to the touch and ready to use.
Whether you opt for a croquette (deep-fried sticks filled with mashed meat and gravy), freekandel (deep-fried sausage) or even a burger, these hot food vending machines are a fun Dutch activity to try at least once.
8. Munch on famous cheeses where they were invented
Even if you've never been to the Netherlands, chances are you'll have a taster, as this tiny country (famous for its delicious cheese) is responsible for some of the biggest names in cheeseland: Gouda and Edam.
Fortunately, both Gouda and Edam are charming towns with plenty to offer, including beautiful old architecture, museums and re-enactments of traditional cheese markets in the summer! Gouda is a 20-minute train ride from Rotterdam, and Edam is about a 40-minute train ride from Amsterdam.
Even if just for bragging rights, eating Gouda in Gouda and Edam in Edam should definitely be something to add to your Netherlands bucket list.
9. Visit the Anne Frank House
The fourth most visited museum in the Netherlands is the Anne Frank House, which was the hiding place of Anne Frank and her family during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.
As you walk through narrow rooms and climb steep staircases, preserved diary entries and personal items on display offer a poignant glimpse into Anne's life and the harsh realities faced by Jewish families in hiding. Be prepared for an emotional journey that will leave you with a deep sense of the resilience of the human spirit.
Although this is a very popular museum, tickets sell out months in advance. If you want to see it, make sure you check the website as soon as you know what dates you'll be in Amsterdam so you can secure your precious time slot too.
10. See the world's first Anne Frank statue
As well as the original house where Anne Frank and her family hid, the Netherlands is also home to the first Anne Frank statue ever erected.
This statue is located in the city of Utrecht, standing outside Janskark in the city center. It was donated to the city council by the youth of Utrecht in 1959, as a way of saying thank you for the support the municipality gave to the many youth groups in the city.
You can also leave a flower on the statue, which was designed by Peter D'Hont, or just take a moment to remember the brave girl who lost her life to prejudice and hatred.
11. Sleep in a luxury hotel... on a crane
In Amsterdam, you'll find no shortage of weird and wonderful accommodation options, but if you're looking for something quirky that (as far as I know) you can only do in the Netherlands, why not opt for a luxury hotel stay? A literal crane?
Crane Hotel Faralda has three super luxurious suites located inside a former harbor crane, with incredible views across the river IJ to boot. The three suites are decorated in very different styles, but all are incredibly rich and modern, with great bathtubs where you can relax in the water while looking out over the city.
Of course, the price tag is also suitably high, so you might want to save it for a splurge on a special occasion. Needless to say, this is one to avoid if you are afraid of heights!
12. Spend the night in a cube
Looking for unique things to do in Rotterdam? Well, among the city's more confusing attractions are its incredible cube houses.
These fun architectural wonders are like something straight out of a futuristic Lego world. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, these houses may make you question what you thought about traditional boxy houses.
Picture it: giant yellow cubes, tilted at a crazy 45-degree angle, stacked on top of each other like a game of architectural Jenga. About 40 of them joined together to form their own small village called Blaxe Boss.
And while visitors from near and far cheer for their photos to be taken outside, more die-hard fans will want to take it a step further and… sleep together!
13. Stop at a mifi traffic light
Looking for something unique in Utrecht? Why don't you cross the light when a rabbit tells you?
Ha! That's right. The fourth largest city in the Netherlands has turned to traffic lights to pay tribute to its most famous resident - the adorable rabbit character known around the world as Miffy (or Nijntje in Dutch).
14. Climb the world's tallest freestanding climbing wall
Another quirky claim to fame in the Netherlands is Excalibur, the tallest freestanding climbing wall in the world!
Named after the legendary sword of King Arthur, Excalibur is located in the city of Groningen in the northeast of the Netherlands. Part of the climbing center Bjoeks, experienced climbers can scale its impressive 37 meters for amazing views from the summit. It also has a 36-foot curve, so climbers can experience the extreme overhang that sometimes occurs on true peaks.
Obviously, only experienced climbers should attempt to tackle Excalibur, but you can try the easier climb inside the center and work your way up!
15. Grate on stroopwaffles in their birthplace
Picture it: a warm, golden, crispy waffle filled with sweet, gooey caramel. That, my friends, is the glorious stroopwaffle.
This delightful dish has a history as rich as its taste. Legend has it that the stroopwafel was born in the city of Gouda in the late 18th century. Created by a creative baker using leftover crumbs and syrup, this genius concoction quickly gained popularity and became a favorite Dutch dish.
Fast forward to today, and stroopwaffles have become an iconic symbol of Dutch culinary excellence. This round wonder consists of two thin waffle layers sandwiching a layer of delicious caramel syrup.
To truly experience the magic of stroopwaffles, visit the bustling outdoor markets of the Netherlands. In cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, you'll find street vendors and stalls offering freshly made stroopwaffles that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Trust me, it's a heavenly experience you don't want to miss!
Just a note though, these are pronounced more like strope (rhymes with grope) wa-fels rather than stroop waffle, which is how it appears to us English speakers.
16. Celebrate "King's Day".
If you're planning to visit the Netherlands in April, you might be lucky enough to witness Europe's wildest national celebration… or at least orange.
Every year in honor of the reigning monarch's birthday (April 27), the Netherlands turns into a sea of orange for Koningsdag, also known as King's Day, with street markets and parties springing up across the country.
Depending on your affinity for drunken debauchery, this may sound like either the best time ever or your worst nightmare, but whatever... celebrating King's Day is a unique thing you can only do in the Netherlands, and a lot of fun if you Never mind drinking crowds and public urination.
Just kidding – there are also plenty of other healthy ways to celebrate King's Day, but if that's what you're looking for, better leave Amsterdam off the shortlist!
Other cities around the country turn their streets into huge flea markets where you can pick up a bargain, or hit some open-air concerts that are a bit more exciting than Amsterdam's massive parties.
17. Visit the world's largest flower auction
If you've ever been curious about what happens to those incredible fields of tulips in the Netherlands after they bloom, you can experience the world's largest flower auction at Royalflora Holland in Aalsmeer.
The Aalsmeer flower auction started in 1910 in two local pubs, but today takes place in a huge auction building with a footprint of 518,000 m². 20 million flowers and ornamental plants are traded here every day with the kind of precision you'd expect from a sensitive military operation.
You can visit the auction and see it from above if you want to marvel at the size and efficiency of the entire operation.
I'd also recommend getting a combined ticket to visit Floriworld next door, an interactive flower and plant experience with some fantastic real and virtual displays of flowers.
18. Stop by the world's oldest (still working) planetarium
Another unique attraction in the small town of Freneker in the province of Friesland; The world's oldest still-working planetarium… and it was built in someone's living room!
Eise Eisinga was a Frisian wool comber who decided to build a moving model of our solar system on the ceiling of his living room between 1774 - 1781, and he did such a good job that it still works. Isinga made his work 'oriri' out of oak wood with nine weights, a pendulum clock and over 10,000 hand-forged nails.
Today his former home is now a museum where you can see this amazing model still in operation, along with other items and displays that show how the Isinga family lived in their cozy canal house.
19. Visit the Christmas Market in the Caves
Bottom right in the Netherlands is the town of Valkenburg (near Maastricht) which is home to several former marl quarries in caves. During the Christmas season, these caves become home to multiple Christmas markets, meaning you can experience some very unusual festive shopping inside the caves!
The entire town of Väckenberg is transformed between late November and early January when it becomes "Karstädt (Christmas City) Valkenburg" with many themed attractions to enjoy.
The most unique part, of course, is the Christmas market which takes place in two of the largest Roman-made quarries. Here you can shop for all kinds of beautiful gifts, as well as see Christmas decorations adorning the permanent sculptures and drawings on the cave walls.
One of these cave markets also claims to be Europe's largest underground market, so it's definitely something unique in the Netherlands.
If you want to visit the markets, I would recommend spending at least two days in Valkenburg, as there are many festive things to do in the city beyond 'just' the markets!
20. Park in the largest parking lot for bikes... in the world!
Any visitor to the Netherlands immediately notices that this is a country that is serious about cycling! As soon as you step outside Amsterdam Centraal, bikes are being biked or parked everywhere, and this is true across the country.
However, it is in the city of Utrecht that the world's largest bike park has been built, below Utrecht Central Station.
This bike parking garage can fit 12,656 bicycles on four underground floors and has space for cyclists to ride their bikes in and out or even take a shortcut through the garage without parking.
Even if you're not exploring the Netherlands by bicycle, it's worth popping down here if you're in Utrecht and want to check out the 30 million euro bike parking garage!
21. Go to a fairytale theme park that isn't Disneyland
If you love theme parks but aren't a fan of all the trademark characters at places like Disneyland, Efteling might be the perfect compromise.
Located near Tilburg, Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands and one of the oldest in the world. In fact, it opened in 1952, three years before the original Disneyland in California, and is twice as big!
Efteling is also themed around fairy tales and fantasy, with a charming mix of displays, rides and performances to enjoy. It makes for a great day out, whether you have little ones who want to explore the fairytale forest or you just want to ride the most thrilling rollercoaster.
For those less keen on thrills, 'experience' rides are a great choice, where you go through a fantastic location that tells a story, but you don't feel like you might actually die if you fall!
There is also an incredible sound, light and water show at night, so if you have time, you can also choose to stay overnight in a themed hotel.
22. Godzilla your way through a small version of the Netherlands
Let me introduce you to a place where you can feel like a giant in a miniature land. Say hello to Madurodam, the cutest little town you'll ever see!
Located in The Hague, this place is a whimsical dream come true. Imagine walking around in a world where everything is miniature—famous Dutch landmarks, iconic buildings, and even tiny people going about their daily lives.
Madurodam is home to Dutch landmarks meticulously recreated in mind-blowing detail. From the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the intricate canals of Amsterdam, it's like experiencing the entire country in a compact, bite-sized package.
Seeing these miniature replicas will make you truly appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that went into making them.
Guests can also see miniature versions of the plane taxiing on the runway at Schiphol Airport and a very fun interactive experience that takes you on a ship journey from the Netherlands to America.
While kids will definitely love Madurodam, it's just as fascinating for adults and, if you're short on time, a great way to see all of the Netherlands' famous sights in one place!
23. Cozy up in a book mountain
De Bockenberg Library in Spijkenice is not your average library—it's a stunning architectural wonder that combines a love of books with a unique and inviting space. Designed by Dutch firm MVRDV, De Bockenberg is often referred to as "Book Mountain" due to its distinctive shape and concept.
The building is characterized by a large, glass-covered structure, reminiscent of a hill or mountain. This unique design serves a purpose beyond aesthetics—it acts as a natural insulation system, helping to regulate the library's temperature and reduce energy consumption.
Here's where it gets really cool: De Bockenberg isn't just about browsing books. It is a space designed to bring people together, interact and engage with literature and culture. The library offers comfortable reading areas, comfortable seating areas and even a roof terrace where visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area.
It's a place where you can curl up with a good book, meet friends for a study session, or attend one of the library's many events, such as author talks or workshops. No bookworm will want to miss this unique library in the Netherlands!
24. Step back a few centuries to see a Dutch village as it once was
The town of Zaanse Schans is like a living museum, where you can experience the rich history of the Netherlands and soak in its scenic beauty. From the moment you step into this quaint little gem, you'll be mesmerized by the rows of traditional windmills that line the horizon.
Zaanse Schans isn't just about windmills though. This is the place to immerse yourself in traditional Dutch culture.
Stroll along the cobbled streets and you'll find yourself surrounded by charming wooden houses and artisan workshops.
Want to see how they make that famous Dutch cheese? No problem! Pop into a cheese farm and witness the magical process first hand. You can even see how the famous Dutch wooden clogs are made and buy a pair to take home!
The best part is that Zaanse Schans is not some isolated place in the middle of nowhere. It is a 20-minute drive or a stone's throw away from Amsterdam by train.
So, if you want to take a break from the urban buzz and enjoy a charming slice of Dutch life, head to Janse Skane. Trust me, it's the perfect blend of history, beauty and that unmistakable Dutch charm.
25. Admire the world's largest collection of objects
The Dutch are another weirdo that collects a huge amount of random stuff! There are many places in the Netherlands where you can enjoy the world's largest collection of certain items, if you happen to be as obsessed with said item as some Dutch people are.\
26. Sip a Heineken in its birthplace
OK - I'll level with you, I don't think Heineken is the best beer in the world, and there are definitely more delicious alternatives in the Netherlands, but thanks to strong export ties and the power of good old-fashioned marketing, Heineken has been the world's most famous and has become one of the recognized beer brands
So, if you're a Heineken fan (or just want to pretend you've been to its birthplace), the Amsterdam Heineken Experience might be something to add to your itinerary.
The experience takes place in the actual brewery, where you'll see vintage factory items and, of course, sample some Heineken itself.
27. Sample Jeniver
Of course, if you're looking for something uniquely boozy in the Netherlands, Heineken is far from the only option.
Geneva is a traditional juniper-flavored liquor originally made by distilling malt wine. The taste wasn't very nice though, so they added juniper berries to give it a nice taste and Jeniver was born.
Amsterdam's House of Bowls Cocktail and Genever Experience is one of the best places to learn all about the history of Genever, as well as sample some!
Warning: While many articles will compare Jenniver to gin, I'd say it's more similar to whiskey in some respects. Indulge accordingly.
28. Visit the world's largest street art museum
Although the Netherlands is known as the home of many accomplished painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, it is also a country with a thriving street art scene. The city of Amsterdam even took it a step further by opening STRAAT, a museum dedicated to street art in a former ship-building warehouse!
While STRAAT may not be the world's first street art museum it is the largest, housed in an 8000 square meter former warehouse so you can really appreciate huge pieces of art in all their glory. Over 160 artworks by 150+ artists are spread across this space and some of them are really huge.
I love visiting this unique museum, where the art is not always on canvas but sometimes painted on the side of a truck (which hangs from the ceiling) or an installation. There was even a room with an interactive artwork that you could change by touching it, and the gift shop had some great souvenirs to take home with you.
29. Appreciate the ingenuity behind "World's Lowest Country."
For most visitors, it may come as a shock to hear that more than a quarter of the Netherlands is (actually) below sea level, making it the lowest country in the world as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records.
So how is the Netherlands... not under water? Well, thanks to an ingenious flood management system made up of various dikes, levees, barriers and pumps.
Today, this ingenuity is best appreciated by visiting some of the anti-flood measures, many (fortunately) quite pleasant as well, such as…
Kinderdijk - a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its concentration of windmills, dikes and pumping stations
Westfriese Omringdijk (The West-Frisian Circular Dyke) - stretches 126km and is a popular place for cycling/walking.
Afsluitdijk - an impressive 32km long embankment that you can explore by car, bike or on foot, complete with a visitor centre.
The Delta Works - A series of storm surge barriers in Zealand that form the largest flood protection system in the world
30. Stop by the world's only museum dedicated to fluorescent art
While Amsterdam is full of art museums, one of them is the only museum in the world where you can enjoy being immersed in fluorescent art.
Stepping into this subterranean space takes visitors into a bulb-shaped world that glows brightly when the black light is turned on. You can become a part of the art here as you walk through and see a collection of stones that react to black light, as well as a variety of vintage black light play sets and informative displays.
Be aware that you can only visit this museum by appointment, so if you want to experience it you need to book online in advance, you can't just rock up on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best times to visit Netherlands?
The best times to visit Netherlands are during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are in full bloom.
Is it necessary to rent a bicycle in Netherlands?
While not mandatory, renting a bicycle is highly recommended for exploring Dutch cities and countryside, as it offers a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Netherlands?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments in Netherlands, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions.
What are some traditional Dutch dishes to try?
Some traditional Dutch dishes to try include stroopwafels (syrup waffles), bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), poffertjes (mini pancakes), and erwtensoep (split pea soup).
How can I travel between cities in Netherlands?
Traveling between cities in Netherlands is convenient via an extensive network of trains, buses, and trams. The Dutch public transportation system is efficient, reliable, and offers scenic routes across the country.
Are English speakers common in Netherlands?
Yes, the majority of Dutch people speak English fluently, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Travelers should have no difficulty communicating in English during their visit.
Conclusion
Netherlands, with its blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, promises an enriching experience for travelers. Whether you're strolling along Amsterdam's picturesque canals, exploring historic windmills, or savoring delicious Dutch delicacies, this captivating country offers something for everyone. Embark on a journey of discovery and create unforgettable memories in the enchanting land of Netherlands.
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