Netherlands: Land of windmills, tulips, cheese and much more
The Netherlands is a small but charming country in north-western Europe, known for its beautiful landscapes, iconic windmills and colourful tulip fields. The country is also famous for its rich history, culture and architecture and is a popular tourist destination for travellers from all over the world. Here are some of the best things to see and do in the Netherlands:
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and is known for its canals, museums and vibrant nightlife. A visit to Amsterdam is not complete without exploring its beautiful canal system, which dates back to the 17th century. Take a boat trip to see the city from a different perspective and admire the charming houses, bridges and houseboats. The city also has an impressive collection of museums, including the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House. You can also visit the Vondelpark, the city's largest park, and take a bicycle tour to see the city's highlights.
Keukenhof Gardens
The Keukenhof Gardens, also known as the Garden of Europe, are located just outside Amsterdam and are known for its beautiful tulip displays. Open from mid-March to mid-May, the gardens attract visitors from all over the world. Besides tulips, the gardens also feature other spring flowers such as hyacinths, daffodils and crocuses. You can also take a bike ride through the surrounding tulip fields to enjoy the view.
Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is a charming village just outside Amsterdam. The village is known for its well-preserved windmills, traditional houses and historical buildings. You can visit a cheese farm, attend clog-making demonstrations or take a boat trip on the nearby Zaan. The village is a great place to experience Dutch culture and learn about the country's history.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its modern architecture, bustling port and cultural scene. The city was almost completely destroyed during World War II and has since been rebuilt with innovative and modern architecture. You can visit the Cube Houses, a series of unusual houses designed by architect Piet Blom, or the Market Hall, a dining hall with a striking ceiling covered in colourful murals. The city is also home to the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which has an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art. You can also take a harbour tour to see the city's impressive ships and cranes
The Hague
The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its international charm. The city is home to the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, as well as many historical buildings, museums and parks. You can visit the Peace Palace, a building dedicated to world peace, or the Mauritshuis, with works by Vermeer, Rembrandt and other Dutch masters. You can also enjoy a walk on the beach in nearby Scheveningen, with a long promenade and a variety of restaurants and cafés.
Dutch cuisine
Dutch cuisine is known for cheese, herring and stroopwafels. You can also try traditional dishes such as bitterballen, a deep-fried meatball snack, stamppot, a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, or erwtensoep, a thick pea soup. Don't forget to taste the country's famous beers, such as Heineken and Grolsch, as well as jenever, a gin-like liqueur typical of the Netherlands.
Kinderdijk windmills
The Kinderdijk windmills are on UNESCO's World Heritage List, just outside Rotterdam. Built in the 18th century to pump water from the polder (land reclaimed from the sea), the windmills are a testament to Dutch ingenuity and engineering. You can visit the windmills, learn more about their history and operation, or take a boat trip to see them from the water.
Efteling
Efteling is one of the largest and best-known theme parks in the Netherlands. It offers visitors a magical experience by stepping into a world where fairy tales and mythological stories come to life. Colourful themed areas, exciting attractions and impressive decorations appeal to visitors of all ages. With its fairytale atmosphere and remarkable visual feasts, it lets you experience unforgettable moments. Efteling is a park that can be visited in both summer and winter, offering a unique atmosphere in every season. Discover the Efteling for one of the best nightlife experiences in the Netherlands.
Beaches in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a long coastline and several beautiful beaches. The beaches are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months. Some of the best beaches in the Netherlands are Zandvoort, Scheveningen and Texel. You can swim, sunbathe or take a walk along the coast.
For more information about the Netherlands, we hope this blog post has been useful. If you have any questions or are planning a trip to the Netherlands, please feel free to contact Skytrip
