27 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands (By a Local)

Despite its small size, the Netherlands has plenty of places worth visiting. 

The country comprises 12 provinces, each with its own distinct identity. Where the northern provinces are full of forests, farms, and cozy villages, the west offers beaches, canal cities including Amsterdam, and heaps of water. While the country’s name means lowlands, you will find some hills in the east and south, with Hanseatic towns and castles in between.

This means there is much to discover in this small yet mighty country. As a born and bred Dutchie, I have listed the best places to visit in the Netherlands below. 

27 Best Places to Visit in the Netherlands

Amsterdam

Although famous for its canals, bridges, and coffee shops, the Dutch capital is much more diverse than it seems.

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Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ most popular destination, and for good reason. Its canals, millions of bikes, and picturesque homes go unmatched. But it’s the city’s diversity that makes Amsterdam stand out. 

Each neighborhood has something unique to offer. You can find Dutch ‘gezelligheid’ in the Jordaan, the best food in Oud-West or De Pijp, and an edgy urban art scene at the NDSM-Werf.  

Additionally, world-famous sights like the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House are worth a peek. So, if you’ve never visited the Netherlands before, this is a good place to start. See my 5-day itinerary and guide to what to do in Amsterdam to begin planning your trip.

Rotterdam

Europe’s largest harbor creatively mixes old and new with its modern architecture, urban art, great restaurants, World War II history, and historical harbor. 

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Guide to Where to Stay in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is Europe’s largest harbor. Its metropolitan feel and modern city center are unique for Dutch cities. In 1940, Nazi forces destroyed the center in a bombing, meaning most historical neighborhoods are located around its edges instead. 

This, including Rotterdam’s international importance, makes it a tapestry of cultures and architectural styles. First-time visitors will want to explore the Cube Homes, Erasmus Bridge, and the old harbor. But foodies, modern art lovers, and history buffs will also enjoy everything Rotterdam has to offer.

The Hague

The political capital of the Netherlands offers stately architecture, a captivating history, and laid-back beach vibes.

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Amsterdam might be the Netherlands’ capital, but The Hague is its political and royal heart. Known as Den Haag in the Netherlands, it’s the home of our government and the king.  

Such a rich history has created a city of classic art and stately architecture, like the royal family’s home, Paleis Huis ten Bosch. But the International Court of Justice’s Peace Palace is equally stunning. Art lovers will love Mauritshuis, which showcases Vermeer’s Girl with the Pearl Earring.

The Hague’s proximity to the sea also makes it a perfect summer destination. Especially if you wish to combine the city vibes with beach days. 

Wadden Islands

Enjoy serenity, seaside sunsets, and one-of-a-kind nature on these five sandy islands.

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The five Wadden Islands offer some of the most unique nature in the Netherlands. From east to west you’ll find Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, and Schiermonnikoog. Their location between the Wadden Sea’s tidal flats and the North Sea made the area a UNESCO-protected biosphere. 

But it is the islands’ energy that makes them a popular destination among locals. The dunes, forests, and grasslands of the isles harbor romantic villages and biking and hiking trails. 

While most Dutchies will decide to camp here for the ultimate back-to-nature experience, there are plenty of hotels around too. Op Oost on Texel is a great option if you love to mix luxury with an organic and eco-friendly way of living.

🚘 How to Get There: The only way to get to the islands is by ferry. Texel is the easiest to reach from Amsterdam for a day trip. The other islands can be reached from several ports and are best explored in a couple of days.

Utrecht

This canal city with medieval history, emerging bands, and well-designed restaurants is the perfect alternative to Amsterdam.

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Utrecht is Amsterdam’s laid-back sibling. Only a 30-minute train ride away, it’s the perfect base for families and travelers looking for relaxation. It offers a similar mix of medieval sights, canals, and urban art spaces, but with fewer crowds. 

Utrecht’s center is full of highlights like the Dom Tower and the Oude Gracht. But its other neighborhoods are worth a visit as well. Oog in Al is romantic and green, with quaint restaurants like Landhuis in De Stad, while Lombok offers a mix of cultures. 

The city is also a great destination for live music and food. TivoliVredenburg and ‘t Oude Pothuys offer two distinct musical experiences. The Streetfood Club and Carmel Market have the prettiest backdrops for a good meal.

👉 Pro Tip: Stay at The Anthony, my favorite hotel, and explore both Utrecht and Amsterdam from there.

Muiderslot

Learn more about the Netherlands’ medieval history and play dress up with your kids at the country’s best-kept castle.

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There is no castle as impressive and well-maintained in the Netherlands as Muiderslot. Its spires, surrounded by a wide moat, loom over the Muiden area. This 13th-century fortress is a must-visit for travelers interested in medieval history. 

You can explore the castle and its sprawling gardens with a ticket. But if you’re traveling with your family, check out their calendar to level up your experience. The castle hosts theatre shows for kids, as well as themed weekends where children get to dress up as princesses and knights.

Zuid Kennemerland

This national park offers hiking paths with views of ancient forests, deer, and the North Sea.

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Dunes have protected the Dutch lowlands from the sea for millennia. Stretching along the entire Dutch coast, they form several national parks rich in flora and fauna. One of the most impressive is Zuid Kennemerland.

If you’re an avid hiker or biology fanatic, then you will love the biodiversity here. Expect taller, grass-covered dunes closer to the beach, and lower dunes further inland. The latter are older and full of forests, ponds, highland cows, and roe and fallow deer.

🚘 How to Get There: As it borders Haarlem, the national park is reachable by public transport. Take the train to Overveen station, or rent a car to get around.

Haarlem

Enjoy canals, art, and the beach in this Medieval city.

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Haarlem is Amsterdam’s western neighbor, and a good alternative to the capital. As it’s a 20-minute train away, Haarlem is perfect for those wanting to stay somewhere with a similar backdrop to Amsterdam, but with fewer crowds.

What’s more, Haarlem offers the best of both worlds! The town is near the beach, and its center is characterized by canals, churches, and courtyards. Art lovers will especially appreciate the Frans Hals Museum, which has some of his best works.

Madurodam

Feel like a giant and visit this miniature version of the Netherlands. 

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Not enough time to see what the Netherlands has to offer? Then visit Madurodam to see it all in one afternoon. This miniature city in The Hague has tiny models of the country’s sights and innovative projects. 

The park is a popular attraction among locals and travelers and is especially loved by kids. Besides looking at the small buildings, young ones can learn how to create wind energy, build dams, and control the traffic of Rotterdam’s harbor. 

Leiden

Dive deep into the globe’s diverse flora and fauna in one of the Netherlands’ iconic canal cities.

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Leiden is located between Amsterdam and The Hague. It’s a good base for travelers looking to explore the Netherlands’ western cities. But the canal town itself has plenty to do for history buffs, with sights like the Burcht and the Pieterskerk.

But above all, Leiden is a city of science. The Naturalis Biodiversity Research Center and Museum has a collection of over a million objects. These range from dinosaur fossils to Ice Age remains.

Prefer to spend your time among living things? Then, Hortus Botanicus, the country’s oldest botanical garden, is the place to be. 

Leiden even made it on TL writer Meg’s list of places in the Netherlands she liked better than Amsterdam!

Delft

Explore the birthplace of the Dutch Republic and Delft Blue porcelain.

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Delft, a city of canals and quaint courtyards like Leiden, is the birthplace of Delft Blue porcelain. This white and blue tableware, inspired by the Chinese craft, is still created daily by artisans at the Museum Royal Delft. Here, travelers can learn more about the work or try their hand at creating pottery themselves.

Besides being world-famous, Delft is also of national historical significance. It was the home of Willem van Oranje, the Dutch founding father. Museum Prinsenhof Delft, which reopens in 2027, is the best place to uncover how his resistance led to Dutch sovereignty.

Zeist and Utrechtse Heuvelrug

Get married at one of the area’s castles, or get muddy while cycling through its forests and hills.

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Zeist, a small town east of Utrecht, is one of the most romantic towns in the Netherlands. With castles like Slot Zeist and quaint streets, it draws brides and grooms-to-be like moths to a flame.

But, while Zeist itself is adorable, its environment is the real showstopper. Second only to the Veluwe, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is the Netherlands’ largest forest. Travelers can crest grassy dunes and wooded hills while enjoying the sight of castles along the way.

Besides hiking, lovers of the outdoors can also opt for challenging mountain bike trails or cycle from castle to castle. Stay at a castle, like Kasteel Kerckebosch if you want to combine adventure with luxury.

Zutphen

Walk along medieval city walls, board a ‘whisper boat’, and enjoy the tranquility in my beautiful hometown.

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Zutphen is one of the prettiest Hanseatic cities in the country. Most of its medieval city walls still stand, and the center offers incredible sights. The Wijnhuistoren, Walburgiskerk, Drogenapstoren, and Berkelpoort are just a few of its gems. As I grew up in Zutphen, I can tell you that any traveler will enjoy its cityscape.

Zutphen is closer to Germany than the sea, and thus not a canal city. Still, the best way to see it is by Fluisterboot (“whisper boat”). In a few hours, you get to see the main sights lining the Berkel and Grote Gracht, and the skipper will regale you with the 1700-year history of the city. 

Once done with sightseeing, get a coffee at de Pelikaan, dinner at Sultani or Chapoo, and wine at Jij & ik. Book a room at Broederenklooster, a former monastery, if you plan on staying in the city. The hotel also has an incredible restaurant, and shares the building with the local library.

De Veluwe

Lovers of the outdoors will want to explore this national park’s numerous hiking and biking trails. 

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De Veluwe is the Netherlands’ largest nature reserve. It’s split into two parks: Nationaal Park Veluwe and Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe. Both hold hills, lush forests, heath that turns purple in spring, and wildlife like deer and boars. Additionally, its numerous hiking and biking trails make it the perfect destination for lovers of the outdoors.

Due to its size, many towns border the area. But if you’re looking for a larger city to stay in, then Arnhem is your best bet. However, I do recommend staying close to the woods. The cabins of Buitenplaats Beekhuizen offer the ultimate experience. 

Nijmegen

Whether you want to march, buy local art, or learn about the country in Roman times, this ancient city is the place to be.

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Nijmegen is one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities, dating back to 100 BC. While parts of the center were bombed during World War II, its history is still visible. Roman ruins are scattered throughout the city, and Kronenburgerpark and the Grote Markt showcase sights of later centuries. 

The city has an edgy side as well. Both the Honigcomplex and NYMA-terrain are former factories turned into creative spaces. Here, you can expect craft coffee, galleries with local art, and events.

Above all, Nijmegen is famous for the Vierdaagse, or Four Day March. Every year, over 45,000 people come to the city to walk 30, 40, or 50 kilometers a day. And while the hikers sweat, the rest of the city transforms into one big party. The march typically takes place in the third week of July.

Urk

This former Southern Sea island offers great fish, traditional wooden homes, and views of the IJsselmeer.

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Urk is a former island in what used to be the Southern Sea, which is why locals say they live ‘on’ Urk, not in it. The fishing town is now connected to the mainland and located on Flevoland, the country’s man-made province. 

Urk sports traditional wooden homes and is a great place to try fresh fish. Spend an afternoon here and wander around its lighthouse and church. Those interested in the history of Urk should visit the Timmerschuur van Hagendoorn, showcasing archaeological finds.

But the best way to see the village is by hopping on a boat and sailing there. This way, you get to experience what it was like for sailors returning home after a long trip.

Deventer

This Hanseatic town offers a wide range of great restaurants and one-of-a-kind festivals.

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Deventer is another Hanseatic town to the north of Zutphen with a similar cityscape. But, where its neighbor is calm and serene, this city is a lot livelier. 

Foodies will love its many stellar restaurants. Places like Jackies, No. 11, and The Lemon Tree offer some next-level dining. All three have an extensive wine menu and are a great place for celebrations.

Those traveling for culture, however, will want to visit the annual festivals. In December, Deventer transforms into Charles Dickens’ 19th-century London during the Dickens Festijn. Locals dress up in the period’s garb and organize activities for young and old. In July, the city hosts Deventer op Stelten, where artists parade on the most extraordinary stilts.

Giethoorn

Often called the Venice of Holland, this village with its straw-roof farms is an idyllic weekend getaway.

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Giethoorn is a popular tourist destination located in the eastern Netherlands. Often called the Venice of Holland, the village consists of a network of canals. Each waterway is lined with straw-roof homes flaunting their perfectly manicured lawns.

Renting a boat on a sunny day is the best way to see Giethoorn, especially if you’re looking for relaxation. You can rent one yourself or book a tour, like this day trip and boat tour from Amsterdam. Once you’re done, wander around the small streets of the village and have a drink on one of its waterfront terraces.

Groningen

This city of contrast and depth offers modern art, impressive architecture, and a nightlife scene that will have you dancing until 6 AM.

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All the way up north, you will find Groningen, the capital of its namesake province. Among locals, it’s known as a student city with bars that never close. Groningen also offers a wealth of restaurants, sights, and activities in addition to its fun cafés.

The city is a dream for those into architecture and sightseeing. Climb up the historical Martinitoren or visit Forum. This futuristic building houses a library, a cinema, and exhibitions. Want to see something special? Then, rent a bike to visit the colorful homes of Reitdiep.

But the winner is definitely the Groninger Museum. The building is an artwork in itself, taking inspiration from its impressive modern art collection. Art enthusiasts will therefore not want to miss this belle of the north.

Leeuwarden

Explore local history, the Frisian language, and unique sights in the capital of the former Frisian kingdom.

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Leeuwarden is the capital of Friesland, a northern province that was once a kingdom. Although it’s been part of the Netherlands for centuries, most locals still speak Frisian. With such a unique culture, the city is a must-visit for all travelers.

One of the most popular attractions is the Fries Museum, which tells the story of Friesland, its language, and art. But the center itself also has some great sights, like its own tower of Pisa: the Oldehoven tower.

Leeuwarden is also great at repurposing spaces, like the former jail Blokhuispoort. Where the city’s criminals were once detained, you can now spend your time reading in the library or looking at art in the galleries. Some of the former cells have even been turned into a hostel called Alibi.

Hunebedden in Drenthe

These prehistoric tombs give you a peek into what life was like in the Netherlands thousands of years ago.

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The Hunebedden are one of the Netherlands’ greatest mysteries. Dating back to 4000-3000 BC, these structures consist of glacial erratics (stones that traveled by glacier during the ice age). And while they are believed to be tombs, archaeologists are not 100% certain.

Visiting tombs might not be on your bucket list. But these monuments feel like seeing Stonehenge. Start by visiting the museum to learn more about prehistoric life in Drenthe. After, make your way to one of the nearby Hunebedden.

To complete the mystical experience, combine it with a hike through one of Drenthe’s national parks, like the Drents-Friese Wold. 

Nationaal Park Drents-Friese Wold

Explore Drenthe and Friesland’s ancient forest on foot, by bike, or on horseback. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some big birds along the way.

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As the name suggests, the Drents-Friese Wold is located around the border between Drenthe and Friesland. Drenthe is known for its sprawling forests, and this national park does not disappoint. It is thus a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.

With so many bird species flapping around, bird-watching in one of the lookout towers is a must-do. But hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are all great ways to explore the landscape. You will encounter heath, drift-sands, and grasslands along the way. Each more beautiful than the last.

Efteling

Whether you’re looking for rollercoaster thrills or the fantasy of a stroll through the fairytale forest, the Netherlands’ most popular theme park will leave you spellbound.

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The Efteling is the Netherlands’ own Disneyland, but dreamier. It started decades ago as the “Fairytale Forest” and has grown into the country’s most popular theme park. If you love rollercoasters and magic, or are traveling with kids, spending a day here is a must.

Every attraction tells a story, either a classic tale or one written by the park’s storytellers. What’s more, the park even has its own music! This makes the Efteling truly one-of-a-kind. 

While a day is enough to see it all, you can also sleep inside the park. With multiple hotels, you can choose to stay in a cabin or a cozy room in Wonder Hotel.

Nationaal Park Loonse & Drunense Duinen

The Sahara of Noord-Brabant offers views of dunes, heath, and coniferous forests, which are perfect for outdoor sports.

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Also known as the ‘Brabantse Sahara’, Nationaal Park Loonse & Drunense Duinen is one of the largest drift sand areas in Western Europe. Its dunes stretch on for miles, and it’s a beloved spot for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Although you will not find camels here, the park teems with a unique array of insects and birds. This makes it the perfect destination for those interested in flora and fauna. Its dunes are interspersed with heath and coniferous forests.

The national park borders the Efteling and is close to Tilburg and ‘s Hertogenbosch. So, if you want to explore more of the province of Noord-Brabant, this is one of its must-sees.

‘s Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch)

While this medieval city possesses charming streets, sights, and museums, it’s best known for its signature pastry.

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‘s Hertogenbosch, or “Den Bosch” as it’s known in the vernacular, is Noord-Brabant’s capital. Its medieval center mixes historical sights, museums, markets, and stellar restaurants. With mostly locals around, this city is a must-visit for the traveler looking to venture off the tourist trail.

Like many Dutch cities, Den Bosch possesses a canal network, the Binnendieze, and a charming city center. Art and history lovers will want to visit St. John’s Cathedral and the Noordbrabants Museum. More into urban art? Then visit the former factory, the Tramkade.

But above all, its signature pastry, the Bossche Bol, is its crown jewel. This chocolate ball filled with cream is as delicious as it sounds. You can find the best ones at Banketbakkerij Jan de Groot. 

Maastricht

One of the Netherlands’ oldest cities has a wealth of history above and below ground. 

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All the way down south, you’ll find Maastricht. Its atmosphere always makes me feel like I’m on vacation whenever I visit as it’s closer to Germany and Belgium than its neighboring provinces. 

Founded over 2,000 years ago, Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. This means there is plenty of history around, with the two basilicas, Our Lady and St. Servatius, stealing the show. Short on time? Head to the St. Servatius Bridge and Saint Peter Fortress for iconic views of the city.

But history can also be found below ground in Maastricht’s caves and tunnels. Built between the 15th and 18th centuries, the underground served as escape and logistical routes during times of war. Booking a guided cave tour here is a must when visiting the city.

Zeeland

This province of water, dunes, and wind is the best place to recharge.

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Zeeland, which translates to ‘Sea Land’, is the country’s southernmost coastal province. It consists of large peninsulas, so water, dunes, and beaches are omnipresent. 

The entire province is a popular weekend getaway destination among locals. Primarily because it’s a great place for ‘uitwaaien,’ which means to let the strong wind blow your worries away. A brisk walk on the beach will do the trick. Adventurous visitors will want to try wind and kitesurfing, though. 

I recommend staying close to the beach in a cabin, B&B, or tiny house to experience the tranquility of the province. But, if you want to learn more about Zeeland’s traditions and culture, its capital, Middelburg, is a good alternative.

Want More? Listen to My Amsterdam Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love my Amsterdam episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming Amsterdam”).

The host, Betty, and I chat about the best things to do in Amsterdam (2:26), Amsterdam safety tips (26:24), where to stay in Amsterdam (19:51), Dutch food to try (32:47), etiquette tips for Amsterdam (39:12), and all the other common questions about Amsterdam. 

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you visit Amsterdam.

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There you have it: the best places to visit in the Netherlands. Plan to travel through the rest of Europe as well? Then read Taylor’s guide to backpacking Europe next.