NETHERLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE
The Netherlands is a fascinating country in Northwestern Europe. This small yet dynamic country is a traveller's dream, offering a diverse range of experiences that span from picturesque windmills and tulip fields to cutting-edge museums and bustling urban hubs.
You can start your Netherlands adventure in Amsterdam, the nation's capital, where you can explore world-class art at the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, meander along the picturesque canals, and experience the city's vibrant nightlife. Beyond Amsterdam, discover the historical richness of Utrecht, the artistic spirit of The Hague, and the lively atmosphere of Rotterdam, each with its unique allure and treasures waiting to be explored.
Venture beyond the urban centers to uncover the natural beauty of the Netherlands. Fields of vibrant tulips blanket the countryside in spring, while serene canals wind through quaint villages. The country's flat terrain is perfect for cycling, allowing you to pedal along scenic routes, passing through fields of colorful flowers and lush forests.
NETHERLANDS GENERAL INFO
The Netherlands share land borders with Germany and Belgium. The longer border is shared with Germany.
The name 'Netherlands' means 'lowlands' as most of the country is flat land that is located slightly above or at sea level, while about one quarter of the country is even below sea level.
Netherlands on the European continent is one country of the four countries that belong to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The kingdom consists of these four countries: The Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten. The latter three are all islands in the Caribbean. There are also three other islands called Bonaire, Saba and Saint Eustacious that are located in the Caribbean Netherlands which are referred to as special municipalities of the Netherlands.
HOW TO GET TO THE NETHERLANDS
BY ROAD
coming soon
BY RAIL
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BY AIR
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BY BOAT
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE NETHERLANDS
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WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN THE NETHERLANDS RIGHT NOW?
TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO IN THE NETHERLANDS
Visit the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse
Stroll around the capital, Amsterdam
Experience a taste of Dutch heritage at Zaanse Schans
Visit the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn
Explore the historic city of Utrecht
Visit the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk
Discover the modern side of the Netherlands in Rotterdam
Explore The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government
Enjoy the ambiance of Maastricht
Escape to Texel, one of the Wadden Islands
ACCOMODATION IN THE NETHERLANDS
coming soon
WHERE TO STAY THE NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam
As the capital and largest city, Amsterdam offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Explore its famous museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, stroll along picturesque canals, and experience the vibrant nightlife. Don't miss the Anne Frank House and the historic Jordaan district.
Gouda
Famous for its cheese, Gouda is a delightful town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful town hall, and traditional cheese market. Be sure to visit the St. John's Church, which boasts stunning stained glass windows.
Rotterdam
This modern and innovative city is famous for its striking architecture, such as the Cube Houses and Erasmus Bridge. Explore cultural attractions like the Kunsthal museum and Maritime Museum, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Rotterdam Market Hall.
Utrecht
Known for its picturesque canals and unique wharf cellars, Utrecht is a historic city with a relaxed atmosphere. Climb the Dom Tower for panoramic views, visit the Centraal Museum, and enjoy the beautiful parks and waterfront dining.
EATING IN THE NETHERLANDS
The Dutch cuisine is known for fresh and regional food, fish and seafood and cheeses.
Here are my top choices of food to try when in the Netherlands.
Bitterballen
These small round fried meatballs are a popular snack. The meatballs are much lighter than regular meatballs as they have a velvety smooth meat filling under the fried crust.
Poffertjes
Dutch pancakes are thick and small round mounds. They are made with a yeast batter and usually served simply dusted with icing sugar or with syrup
Stroopwafel
Two layers of very thin round wafer cookies that are filled with caramel syrup. The name means 'syrup waffle' and this is a very tasty sweet treat.
Stamppot
Potato mash mixed with shredded greens such as kale, spinach or cabbage. This mash is usually served with smoked sausages (rook worst)
THE NETHERLANDS ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to the Netherlands? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans in the Netherlands.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to the Netherlands using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for the Netherlands and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in the Netherlands on Booking.com
CAR HIRE : Book your rental car from RentalCars.com for great service and prices
BUS TICKETS : It is easy to book your bus tickets and other transport once you’re in the Netherlands but if you’d like to book in advance you can buy these tickets online through Bookaway
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in the Netherlands on Viator or Get Your Guide.
NETHERLANDS GUIDEBOOK : Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet Guidebook for the Netherlands for a good read and to help you plan your trip.
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