Travel Tips & Resources

"My best travel tips when planning a trip to the Netherlands"

 

 Here are ten recommendations to make your trip enjoyable:

1. Explore Amsterdam: Start your journey in the capital city, Amsterdam. Visit the historic canals, famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and take a bike ride through the charming streets.

2. Discover other cities: While Amsterdam is a must-visit, don't limit yourself to just one city. Explore other beautiful Dutch cities such as Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and Maastricht, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

3. Embrace cycling: Rent a bicycle and experience the Dutch way of getting around. The Netherlands is renowned for its extensive cycling infrastructure, and it's a fantastic way to explore the cities and countryside.

4. Visit the windmills: Take a trip to Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans, where you can see picturesque windmills and learn about their historical significance in the Netherlands. These locations offer a glimpse into the country's iconic landscapes.

5. Enjoy the tulips: If you visit in spring, don't miss the chance to see the world-famous Dutch tulip fields in full bloom. Keukenhof Gardens, near Amsterdam, is a popular spot to admire an incredible variety of flowers.

6. Try local delicacies: Sample Dutch cuisine by trying traditional dishes like herring, stroopwafels, bitterballen, and poffertjes. Don't forget to pair them with a refreshing Dutch beer or a jenever, a traditional Dutch gin.

7. Explore the countryside: Venture outside the cities to experience the serene Dutch countryside. Rent a boat or take a guided tour through the scenic canals, visit picturesque villages like Giethoorn, or explore the national parks like Hoge Veluwe.

8. Museum-hopping: The Netherlands boasts numerous world-class museums. Alongside the famous ones in Amsterdam, consider visiting the Mauritshuis in The Hague, the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, or the Escher Museum in The Hague.

9. Experience Dutch festivals: Check the local calendar to see if any festivals coincide with your visit. Events like King's Day, Amsterdam Dance Event, or the Flower Parade offer a vibrant and festive atmosphere that showcases Dutch culture.

10. Respect local customs: Familiarize yourself with Dutch customs and etiquette. Bicycles have the right of way, be mindful of noise levels in residential areas, and always greet people with a friendly "hello" or "good day" (hallo or goedendag) when entering a shop or restaurant.

Remember, these tips are just a starting point, and the Netherlands has much more to offer. Be open to discovering new experiences and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful country!

 

Here are some top activities to enjoy in the Netherlands during winter, spring, and summer:

Winter:

1. Ice skating: When the canals and lakes freeze over, ice skating becomes a popular activity. Join locals on frozen canals or visit ice rinks such as the Jaap Eden Ice Rink in Amsterdam or De Uithof in The Hague.
2. Visit Christmas markets: Experience the festive spirit at various Christmas markets throughout the country. The markets in Amsterdam, Dordrecht, and Maastricht are particularly well-known for their cozy atmosphere.
3. Enjoy indoor attractions: Explore museums, art galleries, and indoor attractions like the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, or Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam to escape the cold weather.
4. Try Dutch winter treats: Warm up with traditional Dutch winter delights like oliebollen (deep-fried doughnuts), erwtensoep (split pea soup), and warm stroopwafels (caramel-filled waffles).

Spring:

1. Visit Keukenhof Gardens: Admire the stunning tulip fields and vibrant flower displays at Keukenhof Gardens, located near Amsterdam. Spring is the best time to witness the blooming flowers in all their glory.
2. Celebrate King's Day: Join the nationwide celebration on April 27th, when the country turns orange to commemorate King Willem-Alexander's birthday. Experience lively street parties, flea markets, and concerts throughout the country.
3. Explore national parks: As the weather gets milder, head outdoors to enjoy the beautiful Dutch countryside. Visit national parks like Hoge Veluwe, De Biesbosch, or the Dunes of Texel for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

Summer:

1. Relax on the beaches: The Netherlands has several stunning beaches along its coastline. Popular beach destinations include Scheveningen, Zandvoort, and Texel Island. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beach sports, and beach clubs.
2. Canal cruises: Explore the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, Utrecht, and other cities by taking a relaxing canal cruise. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere and see the city from a different perspective.
3. Outdoor festivals: Summer in the Netherlands is synonymous with festivals. Attend music festivals like Pinkpop, North Sea Jazz Festival, or Lowlands, or enjoy cultural events such as the Holland Festival or Parade theater festival.
4. Cycling and boating: Take advantage of the pleasant weather and rent a bicycle or a boat to explore the countryside, picturesque villages, and scenic waterways. It's a quintessential Dutch experience.

These activities offer a taste of what the Netherlands has to offer during each season. Remember to check specific dates and availability, as some events and attractions may vary from year to year. Enjoy your time exploring the Netherlands!