Every season in the Netherlands has its own magical touch. Spring bursts into life with a riot of colour blossoms, while summer offers just the right temperature for exploring meadows and valleys, attending outdoor festivals or relaxing on sunny beaches. You can look forward to hikes in flame-coloured parks and forests when autumn rolls in. Those who prefer the quieter charms of holidays can travel during winter to attend the festive Christmas markets and go ice skating. Each season presents a unique opportunity to experience the Netherlands at its finest.
Best things to do in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers diverse experiences, from buzzing cities and lush greenery to scenic canals and extensive coastlines.
Giethoorn | Image credit: PhotoBobil, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Cycle through AmstAmsterdam’sturesque streets like the locals
Be dazzled by masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum
Dive into the floral splendour of Keukenhof Gardens
Step back into the past with Zaanse SchaSchans’dmills and quaint wooden homes
Absorb the poignant history at the Anne Frank House
Unearth DelfDelft’snature blue pottery and charming alleyways
Roam HaarHaarlem’storic Grote Markt and the majestic St. BavoBavo’srch
Delve into MaasMaastricht’sient fortifications and the Basilica of Saint Servatius
Marvel at RottRotterdam’snt-garde architecture, from the Cube Houses to Markthal
Get immersed in AmstAmsterdam’srant street art at NDSM Wharf
Discover Frisian art and culture at LeeuLeeuwarden’ses Museum
Bike through the tulip-strewn fields of Bollenstreek or ZeelZeeland’sstal paths
Experience the unique thrill of mudflat hiking in the Wadden Sea
Glide through the serene canals of Giethoorn
Witness a cheese-making demonstration at Gouda or Edam
Unwind on the sun-drenched sands of Zandvoort Beach
Soar above Amsterdam with panoramic views from the A’DAA’DAMkout and the exhilarating “Ove” the Edge” sw” ng
Book your stay at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam via Booking.com
Book your stay at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam via Agoda.com
Best things to do in the Netherlands with family & kids
ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo | Image credit: Kitty Terwolbeck/Flickr
Ignite the curiosity of your little scholars at the interactive exhibits of the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam, or plan a fulfilling day at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo, interacting with diverse wildlife. If amusement parks fascinate you, dive into a fairytale realm at Efteling, a fantasy theme park featuring magical rides and adventures for all ages. Shift gears from the other-world to the underworld at SEA LIFE Scheveningen in The Hague, exploring the deep oceans through 13 themed spaces.
Best things to do in the Netherlands at night
Royal Concertgebouw | Image credit: Andreas Praefcke, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
After dark, you can find a patchwork of pursuits in Amsterdam. If you prefer a dose of culture, catch a world-class concert at the Royal Concertgebouw or a ballet or opera performance at The Dutch National Opera & Ballet. Hit the energetic club scene at De School or Club AIR for something more lively. Rotterdam’s Witte de Withstraat, brimming with bars and eclectic music venues, and Utrecht’s mix of bars, clubs, and live music are other popular places to experience the Netherlands at night.
Book your stay at Hotel Des Indes The Hague via Booking.com
Book your stay at Hotel Des Indes The Hague via Agoda.com
Free things to do in the Netherlands
Jordaan District | Image credit: kevinmcgill, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
There are several ways to experience the Netherlands without spending a penny. Wander through Amsterdam’s canal ring, explore the charming Jordaan district, or relax in Vondelpark’s expansive green spaces. Rotterdam’s striking modern architecture, Delft’s historic streets and canals, The Hague’s beautiful beaches and Utrecht’s old town are among the most enjoyable free things to do in the Netherlands. Take advantage of ticketless entries to the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam on the 1st Sunday of every month to learn about the country’s rich maritime history.
Also Read | 20 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam, From Classic Art Museums To Hidden Speakeasies
Things to do at the airport in The Netherlands
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport | Image credit: Arzaga/Flickr
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained during layovers. Bookworms can spend hours at the world’s first airport library, featuring an extensive collection of Dutch literature translated into over 30 languages. Art enthusiasts will enjoy poring over a curated selection of Dutch art and historical artefacts at Rijksmuseum Schiphol. Stay active with the gym facilities and walking routes available, or unwind with a peaceful stroll through the tranquil Schiphol Airport Park. Sample Dutch delicacies at the airport eateries, or browse the duty-free shops for luxury goods and souvenirs.
Things to do in the Netherlands for couples
Maastricht | Image credit: Kleon3, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Whether you want relaxation or adventure, the Netherlands has the perfect romantic escape. Set sail on a scenic canal cruise in Amsterdam to soak up the magical atmosphere of twinkling lights and historic architecture. Stroll hand-in-hand through the vibrant tulip fields of Bollenstreek or escape to the rustic charm of Zaanse SchaSchans’snic windmills. From indulging in an wine tasting experience in Maastricht to cycle through the Dutch countryside, there are several ways to celebrate togetherness in the Netherlands.
Book your stay at Krasnapolsky Apartments via Booking.com
Book your stay at Krasnapolsky Apartments via Agoda.com
Budget things to do in the Netherlands
Anne Frank House | Image credit: Liddybits/Flickr
A host of pocket-friendly activities is available in the Netherlands for those on a budget. Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House have reasonable entry fees to give you access to the country’s cultural treasures. Discover the cities in a cost-effective way by renting a cycle or a boat. Smaller towns like Delft and Haarlem have many cafes and historic landmarks that are easy on the wallet. Take advantage of discounted tickets for exciting attractions like Efteling theme park or delve into RottRotterdam’sern architecture by booking ahead or choosing off-peak times.
Best shopping places in the Netherlands
P.C. Hooftstraat street | Image credit: harry_nl/Flickr
The Netherlands is a haven for shoppers. From high-end boutiques to funky markets, there is something to satisfy every pocket. For designer labels such as Chanel and Gucci, scour the P.C. Hooftstraat street in Amsterdam. If you want a more personal shopping experience, The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) is just what you need. Markthal in Rotterdam is a foodie paradise loaded with Dutch and international goodies, while traditional Dutch markets in Utrecht and The Hague are the best places to pick up local crafts and souvenirs.
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(Feature Image Credit: Arthur T. LaBar/Flickr )
Related: Windmills, Canals, Tulips – Your Guide To The Netherlands’ Must-Visit Places
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Question: Budget required for a trip to the Netherlands
Answer: The typical daily budget for a trip to the Netherlands depends on the travel style, but it is an average of around EUR 50-100 (USD 54-108) per day.
Question: Best cultural places to visit in the Netherlands
Answer: The Netherlands is home to a plethora of cultural landmarks. Notable sightseeing sites include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Anne Frank House and KindKinderdijk’storic windmills.
Question: Are there any beaches in the Netherlands?
Answer: While it may surprise some, the Netherlands has several beaches along its coast, including Scheveningen Beach near The Hague and Zandvoort Beach near Amsterdam.
Question: Is there any dress code in the Netherlands? / How to dress in the Netherlands?
Answer: The Netherlands has no particular dress code, but casual and easy clothing are fine in most cases. Layering is recommended, as weather can fluctuate rapidly.
Question: What are the best things to buy in the Netherlands?
Answer: Pick up some Dutch cheese, clogs, Delftware pottery or stroopwafels.
Question: How many days are enough to explore the Netherlands?
Answer: Usually, a week is enough to discover what the Netherlands has to offer. But if you are more interested in exploring the culture and history, you should stay longer.
Question: What are the best festivals to celebrate in the Netherlands?
Answer: The Netherlands is a year-round destination, boasting festivals like Koningsdag, Carnival and the Amsterdam Light Festival. Netherlands Adventure Trip Ideas Dutch experiences include biking through tulip fields, frolicking in picturesque countryside, and gliding down its iconic waterways.
Question: What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?
Answer: The Netherlands has a typical maritime climate, with cool summers and moderate winters, which again means that June to August is the best time to visit.
Question: What are the best hotels in the Netherlands?
Answer: Among the top hotels in the Netherlands are the Waldorf Astoria in Amsterdam, the Hotel Des Indes in The Hague, and the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky in Amsterdam.
Question: What are the best adventures to take in the Netherlands?
Answer: The Netherlands has many outdoor adventures to offer, from water sports like sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and kitesurfing. Kayaking is another way to experience Amsterdam’s to cycling, Ice skating and more.
Question: What are the nearby cities in the Netherlands can be explored by road?
Answer: For road trips from the Netherlands, you can explore Brussels in Belgium, Cologne in Germany, and Lille in France.
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Publish date : 2024-07-28 16:00:00
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