Explore the Netherlands, where winding canals and historic gabled houses meet iconic windmills. From Amsterdam’s bustling energy and world-class museums to the peaceful beauty of its blooming tulip fields, allow yourself to cycle through its unique combination of heritage and creativity.
Fast Facts:
Capital: Amsterdam
Population: 17.88 million (2023)
Currency: Euro (€)
Official Language: Dutch
Drives: On the right-hand side of the road
Adapter Type: Type C and Type F
Visa Requirements: None for visa-exempt countries with stays up to 90 days, but EITAS required starting late for non-EU citizens. I recommend reviewing your country’s specific visa regulations to determine if your country is visa-exempt.
Part of the Schengen Area? Yes
Netherlands Itineraries
Amsterdam: 3 Days of Must-Do Experiences
The capital of the Netherlands has tons to offer anyone and everyone, from beer to…
Popular attractions in the Netherlands
Amsterdam: As the Netherlands’ capital, Amsterdam has several attractions, such as the world-famous Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands. Walk along Amsterdam’s canals and take a scenic canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
Keukenhof: Often called the “Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest and most famous flower gardens, renowned for its display of spring-flowering bulbs, especially tulips. About 7 million flower bulbs are planted by hand annually by 40 gardeners and the garden is open only from mid-March to mid-May each year.
Rotterdam: Rotterdam is often referred to as the “architectural capital of the Netherlands” due to its unique and diverse contemporary skyline. Buildings such as the Markthal, a stunning arch-shaped building, and the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) are instantly recognizable due to their unconventional design. Rotterdam is also home to the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest in the world.
Utrecht: Utrecht is a charming and historic city that is less touristy than Amsterdam but is still full of culture and beauty. Utrecht has a vibrant cultural scene with several museums, theaters, and festivals. The Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands and an icon of Utrecht.
The Hague: The only major Dutch city directly on the North Sea coast, The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government and the Royal Family. The Gothic-style Binnenhof complex is the seat of the Dutch parliament, and Noordeinde Palace is the king’s workplace, dating back to the 16th century. The city is also home to the UN’s International Court of Justice, headquartered in the Peace Palace.
Best time to visit the Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands is late spring (April and May) or fall (September and October). These times offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and lower prices on hotels and accommodations. The best time to visit Keukenhof is late April or early May, when the flowers are in full bloom. While summer brings beautiful weather perfect for outdoor activities like canal trips, beach visits, and festivals, it’s also peak tourist season, meaning larger crowds and higher prices.