Places to visit
Discover the Netherlands with Heart and Curiosity
The Netherlands may be small, but it’s full of charm and surprises. Every city, town, and village has its own story — and many of them are easy to explore even on a tight budget.
Here are some of our favorite places that you shouldn’t miss:
🌿 Amsterdam – More Than Just Canals
Amsterdam is known for its iconic canals, bikes, and museums. But there’s so much more than the tourist highlights. Wander through the Jordaan district, relax in Vondelpark, or visit a small gallery instead of the crowded ones. Rent a bike and discover local neighborhoods — it’s one of the best ways to experience the real Amsterdam. And don’t miss the free ferry to Amsterdam-Noord, where you’ll find cool street art and creative spots.
🏙️ Rotterdam – The Modern Side of the Netherlands
If you love architecture and modern vibes, Rotterdam will surprise you. This city was almost completely rebuilt after World War II, and it shows. Check out the famous Cube Houses, walk along the riverside, or take a cheap water taxi for a fun ride. The Markthal is a great place to try local bites without spending too much — and the building itself is a piece of art.
🕍 Utrecht – Cozy, Cool, and Full of History
Less crowded than Amsterdam but just as beautiful, Utrecht has peaceful canals, medieval streets, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. You can climb the Dom Tower or just sit by the canal and enjoy the view. It’s a perfect mix of student energy and historic charm — and it feels more relaxed.
🐚 The Hague (Den Haag) – City Meets the Sea
The Hague is home to the Dutch government, royal buildings, and also some beautiful art museums like the Mauritshuis. But if you want a beach day, just hop on a tram and you’ll be in Scheveningen, where you can walk along the pier or enjoy the sea breeze — all for free.
🌷 Keukenhof & Flower Fields – Seasonal Magic
If you're visiting in spring, don’t miss the tulip fields near Lisse. Even if you don’t pay to enter Keukenhof, there are nearby public areas where you can see rows and rows of colorful flowers — perfect for photos and fresh air.
🚲 Giethoorn – The Village Without Roads
Giethoorn is like something out of a fairytale. Tiny canals, thatched-roof houses, and no cars — only boats and bikes. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and ideal for a day trip. You don’t need to take a tour; just rent a small boat yourself and enjoy the ride.
🎨 Smaller Towns to Explore
Don’t forget places like Delft (known for blue pottery and cozy streets), Leiden (a student city with beautiful canals), and Haarlem (great markets and quiet charm). These towns are often less expensive than the big cities, but just as lovely.
Travel Tip:
Many of these places are close to each other. With a good train pass or rented bike, you can easily visit two cities in one day without spending a fortune.