The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most individualistic, scenic and interesting countries. Dutch culture has spread far and wide and the country’s influence can be felt throughout culture, science and world politics. Dutch people are incredibly proud of their country and possess a formidable sense of humour and lust for life. The Dutch landscape is almost entirely flat which makes it the perfect cycling destination, which is why there are more bikes then people in some of the cities of Holland. The costline of Holland is full of beautiful extensive beaches that are very popular with tourists and residents during the summer months. Aside from the obvious draw of Amsterdam, the Netherlands has many other tourist friendly cities and attractions far and wide to entice and excite all kinds of different people! There are many accommodation options also for visitors which include many hotels, bed and breakfasts, and apartments for rent. Keep reading to find out our favourite spots in The Netherlands!
Accommodation & Apartments in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the world’s most densely populated countries and subsequently housing is at a premium. Hotels tend to be on the expensive side as a result and even hostels can end up costing a fair amount of money. Perhaps a better way to see the country is to stay in an apartment, studio or bed and breakfast. Wimdu offer holiday apartments and spacious studios in all of The Netherlands’ major cities and tourist hotspots. Experience exactly how a local lives and wake up in your own Dutch apartment!
Fun Facts!
- There are still 1,000 working windmills in The Netherlands.
- The Netherlands was the first country to legalise same sex marriages in 2001!
- Amsterdam’s airport, Schiphol, is 4.5m under sea level!
- The Netherlands is incredibly flat! The highest point is just 323m above sea level!
- After the Scandinavian countries, the Netherlands are the world’s biggest coffee drinkers!
Where to visit in The Netherlands
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of The Netherlands and the largest city in the Randstad area of the country. The Randstad is almost completely below sea level and is the most densely populated area in The Netherlands. Other cities in the Randstad include Rotterdam, The Hague, Leiden, Haarlem and Utrecht. Amsterdam is one of the world’s most visited cities and boasts an exhausting number of excellent attractions and things to see and do. Walking along the many canals of Amsterdam is a must, as is a stroll through the huge Dam Square. Madame Tussauds and the Rijks Museum are well worth checking out too. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without a trip through the city’s Red Light District – there you’ll find all walks of life enjoying the seedier side of life. Also in Amsterdam the Van Gogh Musuem will excite you and the Paradiso music venue is where you’ll find world class international acts and emerging local Dutch talent. Accommodation in Amsterdam is plentiful, check out our map to see what apartments and studios are on offer. Amsterdam is an amazing place to visit – we know you’ll have a good time!
The Hague
The Hague is the administrative capital of The Netherlands and is located on the coast of the country. The city boasts several excellent museums as well as nice parks and an attractive beach district. Cultural highlights include the Mesdag Collectie (an art gallery displaying work of Dutch painter Mesdag), Gemeente Museum and The Peace Palace where the government operates from. At the seaside sits the district of Scheveningen, a popular place for locals to enjoy a walk along the beach or a drink in one of the many beach bars.
Groningen
Located far in the north of The Netherlands is the student city of Groningen. Groningen is the main town in the area and boasts good nightlife as well as several of The Netherlands’ best museums. The Groninger Museum is worth a visit, both for the impressive exhibitions and design of the building. Recently the museum has hosted an exhibition of contemporary Chinese art. The museum café is known to serve excellent food too! The Prinsenhof Gardens are loved by locals and visitors alike and you’ll find the gardens are great to walk around in. Perhaps the most famous sight in Groningen is the Martinitoren, a tower in the center of the city which boasts amazing views of the city from the top! Groningen is a great place to visit, distinctly Dutch but with its own unique charm! There are many excellent bed and breakfasts in this city, for visitors – make sure you book early to get the best deal!
Leiden
Leiden is the quintessential Dutch city and at just 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train it’s a perfect place to make a day trip to. Leiden is steeped in history and is home to one of the oldest universities in the world. The city has a beautiful old town featuring many classic examples of Dutch architecture. Along the winding streets are plenty of atmospheric Dutch style cafes and bars. A twice-weekly market along the banks of the Oude Vest canal that runs through the centre is the perfect place to sample freshly caught fish and Dutch baked produce such as stroopwafles. Leiden is home to the Hortus Botanicus, the oldest Botanical Garden in the world as well as several excellent museums.
Other places of interest
There’s too many great things to see and do in The Netherlands for one guide! We must mention the Keukenhof Gardens which are one of Europe’s most magical gardens, particularly in April when the Tulips are in full bloom. Utrecht is a nice student city with its own unique vibe, as is Delft and Tilburg. Despite being flat, the Dutch countryside is very unique and great for hiking and camping!
Getting Around
The Netherlands is home to two major airports as well as countless smaller airports. Schiphol Airport on outskirts of Amsterdam is one of the world’s busiest airports. It receives flights from all over the world and is modern and well designed. Getting into Amsterdam from Schiphol takes just over 10 minutes by train. The Hague is 30 minutes from the airport. The other major airport is Eindhoven Airport which is located in the Southwest of the country. Getting around The Netherlands is straightforward thanks to the size of the country and the extremely reliable and efficient train system. No city within the Randstad is very far apart and you’ll be surprised how quick it is to cross from city to city. The best way to get around a city is by bike, you can get to and from your apartment or studio in no time! – it’s a great experience too! The Netherlands is one of the best cities in the world for cycling in and there are dedicated bike lanes on almost every road. Trams in Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam are also good ways to get around efficiently.