Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands? With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. That is why we have put together a list of the top ten places to visit in the Netherlands. From picturesque villages to bustling university towns, there is something for everyone. Read on to discover our top picks and start planning your Dutch dream getaway!
Where are the best places to visit in the Netherlands?
- Amsterdam
- Keukenhof
- The Hague
- Rotterdam
- Delft
- Utrecht
- Haarlem
- Groningen
- Maastricht
- Giethoorn
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of the most popular places to visit in the Netherlands. With picturesque canals and stunning architecture, it is no wonder that this city is a top destination for travelers in Western Europe. You must visit this city for its world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, stunning scenery, and many fun things to do in Amsterdam. And did you know that Amsterdam has more than 1,500 bridges, even more than Venice? So, a canal cruise is a perfect way to take in the beautiful scenery of the city.
Moreover, if you are seeking a more unique experience, explore the Red Light District or visit the Anne Frank House. Alternatively, the Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for art lovers. We recommend you spend your time in Amsterdam for two to four days. It allows you to experience everything this amazing city has to offer fully. The best time to visit Amsterdam is late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.
Keukenhof
Keukenhof, located in the town of Lisse in the western part of the Netherlands, is a floral wonderland and one of the must-visit places to visit in the Netherlands for flower lovers. This amazing place is famous for its millions of blooming tulips and other flowers, making a stunning floral display. Therefore, you must visit Keukenhof for the beautiful gardens and the amazing opportunity to wander through the flower fields.
Moreover, you can also take a bike ride through the surrounding countryside, enjoy a picnic on the grounds or simply relax and soak in the stunning views. It is recommended to spend at least one day in Keukenhof to appreciate the beauty of the gardens truly. The best time to visit is from mid-March to mid-May when the flowers are in full bloom. For that reason, Keukenhof is only open for 8 weeks a year and attracts more than a million visitors in that short period of time.
The Hague
The Hague is a beautiful coastal city on the North Sea in the western part of the Netherlands. It is known for its beautiful government buildings and cultural attractions, which make it a must-visit place for history lovers. For that reason, you must visit The Hague for its historic architecture, cultural institutions, and sandy beaches. The Peace Palace is a major attraction and the perfect place for those interested in international law.
You can also explore the Binnenhof complex, which is the seat of the Dutch government, and relax on the beautiful Scheveningen Beach. We recommend spending at least one to two days in The Hague to explore the city’s cultural attractions. The best time to visit is in the summer when the weather is warm, and the beach is bustling with activity. So, are you excited to spend your vacation in this one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands?
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is one of the top places to visit in the Netherlands. Located in the western part of the country. Moreover, the city is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with stunning modern architecture, cultural attractions, and world-class dining. So, if you want to experience the modern city life of the Netherlands besides Amsterdam, Rotterdam is the one place you should go.
Furthermore, your visit to Rotterdam is not complete without exploring the Markthal, admiring the Cube Houses, and checking out the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. They are some of the best things to do in Rotterdam. So, if you want to visit Rotterdam, you should spend at least two days in this bustling city. Also, the best time to visit this city is during spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the city is bustling.
Delft
Delft is a charming town located in the western part of the Netherlands, known for its charming old town and beautiful pottery. Moreover, It is also one of many great places to visit in the Netherlands for those interested in historic architecture, scenic canals, and unique cultural attractions. Fun fact: Delft is the birthplace of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. If you are an art enthusiast, you must know who he is.
Not only did the city is full of historical architecture and scenic canals, but it also offers a lot of things to do. A visit to Delft would not be complete without admiring the Old Church, wandering the picturesque Markt, and visiting the Royal Delft Factory. Spend at least one day in Delft, and visit during the spring or summer when the weather is mild, and the city is bustling. You will love this city!
Utrecht
Utrecht is another great place to visit in the Netherlands, located in the central part of the country. It is popular for its beautiful historic center, lively dining scene, stunning architecture, unique cultural attractions, and excellent dining and shopping. Moreover, the scenic canals in Utrecht are one of the best in the Netherlands. Therefore, you should not miss out on exploring Utrecht’s canals by taking a canal tour here.
Some of the best places to visit in Utrecht are the Dom Tower, the Oudegracht canal, and Museum Catharijneconvent. There, you can get a taste of what Utrecht has to offer. While in Utrecht, we recommend you spend at least one or two days in the city. Also, visit this student city during the spring or summer when the weather is mild, and the city is bustling.
Haarlem
Haarlem is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands. Located in the western part of the country, this charming town is just a short train ride away from Amsterdam. Moreover, Haarlem is known for its quaint streets, picturesque parks, and historic architecture. So, if you are fancy about that stuff, you must explore the beautiful gardens and charming atmosphere. Surely, Haarlem will not disappoint you.
Furthermore, there are many things to do in Haarlem. You can visit the Frans Hals Museum, a stroll through the Grote Markt, and a relaxing walk in the stunning Haarlemmerhout Park. The best part? A day is enough to discover the best of Haarlem. So, if you want to visit Haarlem, the best time to visit is spring or summer when the flowers bloom, and the weather is mild.
Groningen
Groningen is a lively university town and one of the most exciting places to visit in the Netherlands. Located in the northern part of the country, Groningen is known for its unique architecture, great nightlife, and beautiful parks. You must explore the Groninger Museum, a modern building with a beautiful collection of art and design. In addition, the Noorderplantsoen park is a must-see for nature lovers, with beautiful walking paths and green spaces.
Moreover, Groningen is also famous for its many bars and cafes, perfect for an evening out with friends. For that reason, to fully experience the city, we recommend spending at least two days here. Spring or summer is the best time to visit when the city is bustling with students, and the weather is mild. Fun fact: Groningen is the youngest city in the Netherlands, with an average age of 36.
Maastricht
Maastricht is a charming city with a rich history and a lively cultural scene, making it one of the most romantic places to visit in the Netherlands. Located in the southernmost part of the country, Maastricht is known for its historic architecture and great dining. The Vrijthof square is a must-see for visitors, with its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere. The St. Servaas Basilica is also worth a visit, a beautiful Romanesque church with stunning frescoes.
Not only does this city offers you vibrant city life, but it also gives you beautiful natural surroundings to explore. Hiking in the nearby hills is a perfect way to explore its pretty spots. We recommend spending at least two days here to experience the city fully. Moreover, the best time to visit is in summer, when the weather is warm, and the outdoor cafes are bustling. So, do you want to spend your vacation in Maastricht soon?
Giethoorn
Giethoorn is one of the most picturesque places to visit in the Netherlands. Located in the northern part of the country, this village is famous for its beautiful canals, thatched-roof houses, and quaint bridges. Fun fact: Giethoorn has no roads, and all transportation is done by boat or foot. For that reason, taking a canal tour is a must-do activity in Giethoorn, allowing you to see the village from a different perspective.
Moreover, you must explore the scenic beauty of the village, unique cultural attractions, and great outdoor activities. Renting a bike and exploring the surrounding countryside is also a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, the Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus is also worth a visit, showcasing the history and culture of the village. Spending a day in Giethoorn is enough to discover its beauty, especially during the summertime.
There you have it, our top picks for the best places to visit in the Netherlands. Whether you are looking for historic architecture, charming canals, or a vibrant arts scene, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country. So why wait? Start planning your Dutch adventure with JoinMyTrip today. Our dedicated TripLeaders will take you on an unforgettable vacation! Get ready to experience all that the Netherlands has to offer.