The Netherlands is a country of endless charm. Renowned for its art, culture, and natural beauty, it offers travellers a rich tapestry of experiences. From cycling through scenic countryside to visiting world-class museums, the Netherlands promises memories that linger long after your trip ends. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic canals of Amsterdam or the wind-swept landscapes of the countryside, there is something for every traveller. So, stop wondering and start planning your Dutch getaway with Veena World! Include this thoughtfully curated guide in your itinerary as it highlights the top attractions and experiences that make the Netherlands an unforgettable destination.
When thinking about things to do in the Netherlands, all you can picture is Amsterdam’s famous canals, towering windmills, and vibrant tulip gardens. However, the country has so much more to offer beyond its postcard-perfect polaroids. From historic cities filled with centuries-old architecture to quaint villages where time seems to stand still, the Netherlands is a wonderland for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and curious wanderers alike.
As you explore this Dutch paradise, you’ll find that the Netherlands blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. Imagine strolling along cobbled streets, hopping on a canal cruise, tasting local cheese, or eyeing one of the world’s most visionary art museums. This is a place where every corner tells a story and every experience leaves you enchanted. If you’re ready for an adventure, here’s your handpicked Veena World guide to places to visit in the Netherlands that will help you uncover the country’s most iconic and memorable charms.
Top Things to Do in the Netherlands
- Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
- Anne Frank House, Amsterdam
- Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
- Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse
- Zaanse Schans Windmills, Zaandam
- Kinderdijk Windmills
- The Hague: Binnenhof and Mauritshuis
- Giethoorn Village
- Rotterdam’s Modern Architecture
- Amsterdam’s Canal Cruise
1. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum is the crown jewel of Dutch art and history, making it one of the top places to see in the Netherlands. A home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, it showcases the country’s artistic legacy over centuries. As you wander through its halls, you’ll not only admire art but also explore exhibits on Dutch history, culture, and maritime achievements.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: €20 per adult, free for children under 18
- How to Reach: Located in Amsterdam’s Museumplein; easily accessible by tram or metro
2. Anne Frank House, Amsterdam
Visiting the Anne Frank House paves the way for a moving and educational experience as it highlights one of the most poignant stories of World War II. You can walk through the secret annexe where Anne Frank wrote her diary and view exhibitions on human rights, tolerance, and history. This site comes under the must-visit historic places to go in the Netherlands as it offers a deeper understanding of the country’s rich legacy.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: €14 per adult
- How to Reach: Located in central Amsterdam; accessible by tram
3. Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
If you’re an art enthusiast, you will definitely fall in love with the Van Gogh Museum. It houses the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s works. From iconic sunflowers to expressive self-portraits, it gives you an insight into Van Gogh’s life and creative ingenuity. Interactive exhibits make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: €19 per adult
- How to Reach: Located in Amsterdam’s Museumplein; reachable by tram
4. Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse
Keukenhof Gardens is a floral fairyland and one of the most famous sites to see in the Netherlands. You can call it the “Garden of Europe” as it blooms with millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths each spring. While walking through its themed gardens, pavilions, and flower shows, you will be spellbound with a sensory experience that is quintessentially Dutch.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Entry Fee: €19 per adult
- How to Reach: Located in Lisse; you can take a train from Amsterdam
5. Zaanse Schans Windmills, Zaandam
For an unbeatable Dutch experience, you cannot miss Zaanse Schans which is a living museum of traditional windmills, wooden houses, and crafts. You can see working windmills, visit cheese and clog workshops, and enjoy breathtaking riverside views. This destination offers the perfect blend of old-world elegance and sensory experiences.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free to enter the village; some workshops charge separately
- How to Reach: 18 km from Amsterdam; reachable by train or bus
6. Kinderdijk Windmills
Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring 19 well-preserved windmills. This place provides a glimpse into the Netherlands’ historic water management and engineering. Walking or cycling along captivating canals lets you admire these windmills set against a backdrop of lush fields and waterways.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free outdoor access; small fee for museum interiors
- How to Reach: 85 km from Rotterdam; accessible by bus or car
7. The Hague: Binnenhof and Mauritshuis
The political heart of the Netherlands, The Hague is home to the Binnenhof complex and Mauritshuis museum. Here, you can explore Dutch governance, art, and architecture at its finest. Mauritshuis holds paintings like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, while the Binnenhof boasts historic halls and courtyards for tours.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Mauritshuis €15 per adult; Binnenhof tours €10–15
- How to Reach: Easily accessible via train or tram from Amsterdam or Rotterdam
8. Giethoorn Village
Dubbed as the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a tranquil village where charming canals replace traditional streets. You can soak in the serenity of the place via boat, bicycle, or walking trails. Traditional thatched-roof houses and lush greenery create a serene escape, perfect for photography and quiet retrospection.
- Opening and Closing Hours: Open all day
- Entry Fee: Free
- How to Reach: 120 km from Amsterdam; you can hail a bus or taxi
9. Rotterdam’s Modern Architecture
Rotterdam is regarded for its futuristic skyline and modern architecture. Popular highlights include the Cube Houses, Erasmus Bridge, and Markthal. Exploring the city on foot or by water transport gives you a sense of the Netherlands’ cutting-edge urban design.
- Opening and Closing Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free for public exploration; some buildings charge for interior visits
- How to Reach: 80 km from Amsterdam; Local trains and buses are easily available
10. Amsterdam’s Canal Cruise
A trip to the Netherlands is certainly incomplete without cruising the canals of Amsterdam. Whether you walk along their scenic edges or take a canal cruise, the view of historic houses, bridges, and waterside cafés is purely magical. Evening cruises provide romantic lighting and a peaceful ambience. If you are looking for an enchanting escape, you cannot miss this experience.
- Opening and Closing Hours: Cruises operate 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: €18–€25 per adult
- How to Reach: Located in central Amsterdam; most piers are within walking distance
From monumental museums and serene villages to iconic windmills and vibrant fields, there is a diverse list of places to visit in the Netherlands that cater to all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re wandering through Amsterdam’s canals, marvelling at magnificent art, or cycling through countryside paths, every experience is memorable and enriching. Many well-curated Netherlands tour packages allow you to explore these attractions with convenience and exceptional perks. Consider booking one with Veena World, and we will ensure you don’t miss out on these esteemed sites, while enjoying a seamless and immersive Dutch getaway!
FAQs
Q1. What’s the real deal with Dutch “coffeeshops”?
Coffeeshops in the Netherlands are not your typical café. They’re places where cannabis can be legally bought and consumed, as long as it's within the prescribed limits. Interestingly, this doesn’t mean cannabis is legal in the Netherlands; it’s simply decriminalised, with rules in place about the amount someone can possess and how it can be sold. You won’t find marijuana in regular cafés.
Q2. Why do Dutch people love bicycles so much?
The Netherlands is one of the most bike-friendly countries in the world. Over 22 million bicycles are in the country, outnumbering its population. The flat landscape, extensive network of bike paths, and bike-friendly infrastructure make cycling an easy and sustainable mode of transportation. In fact, cycling is deeply ingrained in Dutch culture; people ride bikes for everything—from daily commuting to leisure activities.
Q3. What’s the story behind Dutch “stroopwafels”?
Stroopwafels (thin waffles filled with caramel syrup) are beloved in the Netherlands, but did you know they originated in the city of Gouda in the 18th century? Legend has it that a baker in Gouda used leftover crumbs to make the first stroopwafel, which turned out to be a hit. They are often enjoyed with a hot beverage, where you can place the waffle over the cup to warm it up and melt the filling.
Q4. Why are there so many "unique" museums in the Netherlands?
The Dutch love their museums, and there’s one for nearly everything! Some of the more quirky and lesser-known museums include:
- The Cheese Museum in Alkmaar: All about the Dutch cheese-making tradition.
- The Torture Museum in Amsterdam: A chilling look at historical methods of punishment.
- The KattenKabinet (Cat Cabinet) in Amsterdam: Dedicated to art featuring cats, including works by Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec.
- The Potato Museum in Brussels: A quirky tribute to the humble potato, and how it’s used in Dutch cuisine.
Q5. What is the “Dutch treat” or “going Dutch” really about?
The term “going Dutch” means that each person pays for their own part of the meal or outing. While the exact origin is unclear, it’s thought to stem from the idea of the Dutch being frugal or practical. In the Netherlands, it's common for people to split the bill at restaurants, and it’s not seen as rude or impolite.
27 videos
Post your Comment
Please let us know your thoughts on this story by leaving a comment.