Travel to The Netherlands and discover a captivating country that boasts a unique landscape, with a significant portion of its land reclaimed from the sea. Experience the charm of this densely populated nation, where approximately half of its territory lies below sea level. A lot of travelers choose to visit the Netherlands primarily for the purpose of exploring Amsterdam. But traveling in Holland provides plenty of opportunities beyond its capital city. With its crisscrossing canals, the picturesque landscape of this travel destination is ideal for exploring on a bicycle. 

Discover charming historic town centers, iconic windmills, and various other tourist attractions that are scattered throughout the country. Traveling along the western and northern regions, one can witness the vast expanse of coastline adorned with endless stretches of protective dunes and picturesque sandy beaches. During the spring, the flower gardens become popular tourist attractions in the Netherlands, offering a colorful display.

1. Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals that wind their way through the cityscape. These canals, collectively known as the Canals of Amsterdam, are not only a beautiful sight to behold but also hold great historical and cultural significance. 

Amsterdam’s canals are an iconic symbol of the city’s heritage and have been an integral part of its identity for centuries. With a network of more than 100 kilometers of canals, spanning over 1,500 bridges, they create a unique and enchanting atmosphere that captivates locals and visitors alike. Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Canals of Amsterdam, UNESCO designated them as a World Heritage Site in 2010. This prestigious recognition underscores their universal value and ensures their preservation for future generations to appreciate.

The Canals of Amsterdam have a fascinating history that dates back to the 17th century. Originally constructed for defense, water management, and transportation purposes, these canals played a vital role in the city’s development as a major trading hub during the Dutch Golden Age. The ambitious engineering feat of creating a network of canals, known as the “Grachtengordel,” showcased the city’s innovative urban planning.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Areas & Hotels

2. Keukenhof

Keukenhof is an enchanting floral paradise nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, also known as the Garden of Europe. With its vibrant colors, fragrant blossoms, and sprawling landscapes, Keukenhof attracts millions of visitors each year. 

Keukenhof offers a vast expanse of land measuring 32 hectares to showcase its spectacular flowers. The attraction is accessible only during the spring season when the tulips are in full bloom, offering a vibrant and appealing travel experience.

During your travel, anticipate a warm welcome from around 7 million blooming flowers. One of the best things to do while visiting Flower City is to capture stunning landscapes, in addition to enjoying the beauty and fragrance of its blooms. You can also attend and even take part in the flower shows held at the garden during your travels!

Exploring the garden through hiking is an exciting outdoor activity that allows you to discover and experience the beauty of various flowers and plants.

3. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch National Museum in Amsterdam, and it has an incredible collection of art and antiquities dating back to 1809. The museum displays over 7 million things and over 5,000 artworks spread over 250 rooms.

You can visit a library with 35,000 books and admire some of the most impressive paintings in the world created by the ‘Old Masters’. While traveling, you can explore a museum that showcases a variety of Dutch artifacts including traditional handicrafts and sculptures from the medieval era. Additionally, you can discover contemporary art that is sure to captivate your interest.

Make sure you allocate enough time to explore every corner as you can easily spend a full day here seeing everything.

4. Giethoorn

Giethoorn is a charming travel destination located in the Dutch province of Noord Brabant. Located approximately 15 km south of Eindhoven, this destination boasts a population of 18,400. The Netherlands has some of the most beautiful towns, and this is definitely one of them. The destination boasts a picturesque main street lined with quaint shops and eateries.

The town square is surrounded by stunning Dutch architecture, and the entire town is free of cars. During spring and summer, you can enjoy stunning canal views and breathe in fresh air without any noise or pollution.

Giethoorn is a great travel destination for those who want to experience traditional Dutch architecture. These areas are commonly referred to as “polders” in the English language. Each destination has a unique design, most of them have a historic landmark, and the streets are made of cobblestone.

5. Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a historical landmark located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Prinsengracht is the location of the home where Anne Frank and her family sought refuge during WWII as Jewish refugees from Frankfurt. It was here that Anne wrote her renowned diary. Even though she passed away only two months before the war’s end, her words have been translated into 51 languages, and her legacy lives on.

The restored house where the Frank family hid during the war is a popular travel destination. The back of the house has been preserved to reflect its original state, serving as a reminder of a tragic moment in history. Visitors are moved by the bravery of Anne Frank and her story continues to inspire people worldwide.

When traveling to this popular attraction, it is important to reserve your tickets online in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. During your travels to Amsterdam in the spring and summer, make sure to set aside some time to wander the nearby area on foot and take in the delightful old canals.

6. The Windmills of Kinderdijk

One of the Netherlands’ most captivating travel destinations is the picturesque fishing village of Kinderdijk. This charming village, located just a stone’s throw away from Rotterdam central station, is not only steeped in rich history but also offers a delightful museum and an array of tourist attractions to explore.

The Windmills at Kinderdijk are a popular attraction for travelers visiting the museum. Located in the picturesque Alblasserwaard polder, you will find a mesmerizing collection of 19 traditional Dutch windmills. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dutch landscape, showcasing centuries of remarkable waterworks achievements.

While embarking on a journey to witness the majestic windmills, it is highly recommended to delve into the fascinating world of Dutch waterworks, immerse yourself in breathtaking panoramas, and venture into the enchanting marshlands that grace the Netherlands. In 1997, travelers were thrilled to discover the Windmills at Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and rich historical significance.

Visiting the windmills museum at Kinderdijk is an essential experience for travelers. Experience the wonders of travel as you embark on a captivating journey through a multimedia presentation showcasing the intricate workings of a secondary pumping station nestled within the enchanting mills. Additionally, make sure to explore the remarkable attractions in the vicinity of the picturesque fishing village of Kinderdijk.

7. De Hoge Veluwe National Park

Are you a fan of exploring the great outdoors? The De Hoge Veluwe National Park in the Netherlands is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a breathtaking outdoor adventure. It’s a travel destination that appeals to individuals of all age groups, especially those who enjoy venturing into the great outdoors on their own.

The Hoge Veluwe National Park, also referred to as the De Hoge Veluwe National Park, is a popular destination for travelers in the Netherlands. Located in the beautiful province of Gelderland, this Dutch park offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Located in the Netherlands, this national park stands out as one of the country’s most distinctive natural destinations. Notably, it is privately owned, making it a rare gem among the nation’s parks.

The park’s landscape is predominantly characterized by picturesque dunes and lush wooded areas. When planning a travel adventure, there are numerous enchanting destinations waiting to be discovered. One such destination is a picturesque park, offering an array of breathtaking sights to explore during a day excursion. Moreover, the destination provides numerous cultural activities for travelers to engage in.

Within the vicinity, there are a multitude of museums to explore, such as the renowned Kroller-Muller Museum and the exquisite Jachthuis Sint Hubertus Manor. This destination is located in a secluded region, making it ideal for an overnight stay in the nearby

8. Netherlands Open Air Museum

The Netherlands Open Air Museum offers a breathtaking travel destination that caters to the entire family’s enjoyment. Arnhem boasts an enchanting national open-air museum that is a must-visit for travelers. While embarking on a journey through the captivating museum, travelers can delve into the rich tapestry of Dutch culture that has flourished over the past few centuries. This immersive experience seamlessly intertwines with the everyday lives of the locals, forging a deep connection between visitors and the vibrant essence of the Netherlands.

The Open Air Museum is not just a museum, but a fascinating travel destination that offers an enriching educational experience. Embark on a captivating journey through the country’s vibrant past and diverse landscapes as you explore 80 remarkable historic buildings, farms, and windmills showcased in this immersive travel experience.

Two of the most thrilling experiences while traveling are exploring the picturesque landscapes of medieval Holland and immersing oneself in the vast array of artifacts at the Open Air Museum. Embark on a captivating journey through Holland’s rich history by joining a guided museum tour.

Here, you can engage in a variety of exciting and educational adventures. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore ways to repurpose waste materials and support local artisans in their creative endeavors.

If you want to explore further, there are some exciting attractions in close proximity to the museum as well. The Burger’s Zoo, the Netherlands Water Museum, and the Openluchtmuseum are all conveniently located within walking distance, making it easy to explore these exciting travel destinations.

9. Cathedral Square, Utrecht

When planning your trip to the Netherlands, make sure to include the charming city of Utrecht in your itinerary. Known for its rich history and impressive architectural landmarks, Utrecht is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Begin your journey in the heart of this charming city at Cathedral Square. Located in the heart of the city, the Domplein is a must-visit destination for travelers. When you embark on your journey, you will discover that the origins of this enchanting place be traced back to the year 1254. However, the majority of the sights and structures that will captivate your senses were constructed during the splendid 14th and 15th centuries.

While exploring the city, make sure to include a visit to the Domtoren. This remarkable church tower, constructed in the 14th century, stands tall amidst the bustling cityscape, offering breathtaking views of its surroundings. Make sure to embark on the journey up to the viewing platforms for its breathtaking vistas of Utrecht. Embarking on a thrilling adventure, travelers can conquer the challenge of ascending 465 steps, all while immersing themselves in the captivating narrative of the guided tour. This remarkable experience serves as a remarkable initiation into the city’s vibrant tapestry of history.

10. West Frisian Islands

Discover the enchanting West Frisian Islands, also known as Waddeneilanden in Dutch, nestled in the breathtaking North Sea just off the coast of the Netherlands. They continue further east as the German East Frisian Islands. Travelers can explore the stunning islands that divide the North Sea from the serene Wadden Sea, featuring captivating tidal mud flats. During low tides, travelers have the opportunity to explore various islands by walking across the mudflats under the guidance of licensed tour guides. When traveling to the islands, cycling is the preferred mode of transportation.

11. Van Gogh Museum

When exploring the vibrant city of Amsterdam, make sure to include a visit to the remarkable museum honoring the renowned artist Vincent van Gogh. Located in the heart of the city’s historic center, this museum offers an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts and travelers alike. The Van Gogh Museum is a popular destination for art enthusiasts, showcasing a remarkable collection of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces.

Travel enthusiasts will be thrilled to embark on a journey exploring the magnificent masterpieces of Van Gogh. This captivating tour offers the opportunity to witness firsthand the creation of the artist’s most renowned works, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for his artistic genius. Amsterdam is home to a remarkable museum that boasts the world’s most comprehensive assortment of van Gogh’s works. With over 2,000 paintings and drawings, this collection is truly unparalleled.

The museum takes you on a journey through the artist’s life and works, allowing you to delve into his creative evolution and learn more about him. The museum showcases a vast collection of over 200 oil paintings, 500 significant drawings, and more than 700 letters, offering a captivating journey through art and history. Experience the mesmerizing exhibition showcasing Van Gogh’s renowned masterpieces, such as the vibrant Sunflowers, the captivating Potato Eaters, the delicate Almond Blossom, and the intriguing Self-Portrait With Grey Felt Hat.

The museum also showcases displays on various subjects pertaining to travel history during the nineteenth century. For a more immersive travel experience, reserve a 2-hour tour of the Van Gogh Museum in a small, private group setting.

12. Historic Binnenhof, The Hague

Renowned for being the home of the International Court of Justice, The Hague (Den Haag) is also a vibrant political hub in The Netherlands. Welcome to this enchanting destination where the country’s government carries out its important affairs. Explore the captivating Noordeinde Palace, which proudly serves as the residence of the esteemed Dutch Royal Family.

The Hague is a fantastic travel destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the country’s fascinating history. Whether you’re embarking on a short getaway or venturing out on a day trip from Amsterdam, kickstart your travel adventure in the captivating Binnenhof district of the city. Located in the heart of the city, the Binnenhof is a historic site that has been standing since 1250 CE. It’s the oldest part of the city and a delight to discover while traveling.

Located in the heart of a vibrant city, the charming historic structures in this area were once home to the elite of the country and have been exceptionally maintained over the years. One of the must-see attractions in this destination is the Knights’ Hall (Ridderzaal). Located in the heart of a picturesque town, this magnificent fortress-like structure, adorned with twin towers, has stood tall since the 13th century. It continues to serve as a venue for various government occasions, such as the grand opening of parliament held annually in September. One of the highlights of your travel experience is the magnificent Gothic hall, adorned with stunning stained-glass windows and a beautifully crafted wood-beamed ceiling.