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The Netherlands has never lost its allure - with its multi-dimensional beauty and the friendliness of its local people. Let's explore the famous tourist spots in the Netherlands to carve out beautiful memories of this country, shall we?
Renowned for its tulip fields, windmills, and intricate canal system spanning centuries, the Netherlands has long been a 'hotspot' for European travel. Dotted around the beautiful countryside are serene towns, tranquil villages to explore, housing magnificent museums, architectural gems, and lush green parks.
Most people come here just to party in Amsterdam for a few days before moving on, but hold on! Based on the experiences of many #teamKlook travelers who have ventured solo in the Netherlands, take the time to explore other places too, and you'll want to return to this beautiful country year after year for more views!
Whether you're seeking a luxurious Dutch travel itinerary or aiming to save as much as possible, this Netherlands travel guide can still help you craft the perfect plan for your trip, ensuring you make the most of your time and don't waste any fun here. Grab these Netherlands tourist spots now and they'll be the 'new light' for your journey!
What Do You Know About Traveling to the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is a small country in Western Europe, bordered by Belgium to the South, Germany to the East, and the North Sea to the North and West. The Netherlands boasts an interesting geographical feature with 1/5 of its area lying below sea level, making it the flattest country in the world.
The Netherlands is famous for its network of canals, rivers scattered everywhere, and a fairly extensive coastline. Visitors see the Netherlands as a fairyland, hiding precious gems in museums, quirky hotels, bustling markets, dazzling 'Instagrammable' spots, stylish cafes, and historical sites intertwined with each other.
While the most famous city is Amsterdam, there are still many other beautiful places to explore. Cruise along the canals in Amsterdam, witness the world's largest flower parade in Zundert, surf at Scheveningen beach in The Hague, or indulge in some cheese at the authentic cheese market in Woerden. Wherever you go, there are countless experiences for you to enjoy in the beautiful country of the Netherlands.
Famous Tourist Destinations in the Netherlands
When it comes to the Netherlands, the first place that comes to everyone's mind is Amsterdam. Amsterdam is undoubtedly a very interesting city, but Amsterdam is just a small part of the Netherlands. And if you have a few days to explore the Netherlands, there are many great places waiting for you to discover.
Amsterdam Netherlands Tourist Attractions
Amsterdam is one of the most famous destinations in the Netherlands and Europe alike. Starting as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam today is the economic capital of the country and is considered one of the leading financial centers in Europe.
Here, you'll find world-class museums, beautiful canals, historic buildings, famous attractions, and green spaces. With just one 'powerful' sightseeing ticket, the I Amsterdam City Card, you can freely explore up to 70 attractions and use public transport in Amsterdam without worrying about buying multiple tickets anymore.
1. Canals in Amsterdam
The first thing to do when you arrive in Amsterdam is to admire the beautiful canals that date back to the 17th century, built to manage the flow of the Amstel River. Over 100 canals have added to the serene beauty of this city, and you can experience them best by taking a boat ride and enjoying the magnificent historic mansions while gaining insight into the Golden Age of the Netherlands.
2. Rijksmuseum
A must-visit attraction in Amsterdam is the Rijksmuseum, which provides an overview of the Netherlands' 800-year history, featuring Dutch masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. This stunning structure, designed by Pierre Cuypers, opened its doors in 1885.
The Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands houses over a million significant and important artifacts dating back to the 13th century, attracting millions of visitors annually. Additionally, don't hesitate to sign up for exclusive walking tours by Klook to explore other famous museums like Van Gogh and Stedelijk.
3. THIS IS HOLLAND 5D Experience
Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime amidst Amsterdam? Head to THIS IS HOLLAND to experience a 5D flight journey through the 22 most famous landmarks in the Netherlands.
Special effects like wind, mist, and scents will awaken all your senses, making you feel like you're truly flying through the clouds, crossing dikes, and enduring storms right from your seat.
4. Heineken Experience Museum
The Heineken Brewery was established in Amsterdam in 1864 and is now one of the top three largest beer producers globally. The rich history and success of Heineken are showcased in their old brewery in Amsterdam, with some fun exhibitions and entertainment activities.
Whether you're a beer aficionado or not, indulge in a small beer tasting session after your tour. But wait, it's not just any beer at Icebar Xtracold - it's unique! Here, everything is made of ice and maintained at -10°C. This will remind you of the adventurous journey of the first Dutch explorers trapped in the Arctic seas!
5. Anne Frank House
A visit to the Anne Frank House is one of the highlights in Amsterdam. It's where the life of Anne Frank, a girl who, along with several other families, faced numerous difficulties while hiding in this house for about 2 years, to escape the Nazi regime during World War II.
Additionally, you can follow in Anne Frank's footsteps to the places she experienced in her childhood through a unique walking tour by Klook.
Places to Visit in Utrecht Netherlands
Located just a short train ride southeast of Amsterdam, Utrecht is certainly one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the Netherlands. Proudly the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, with a medieval center intersected by the picturesque Oudegracht canal. It was once the religious and cultural center of the country, so it has plenty of interesting historical and cultural landmarks for you to explore.
6. Dom Tower of Utrecht
Standing impressively tall at 112m, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands and the most recognizable landmark of Utrecht for about 600 years. Built from 1321 to 1382, this colossal tower symbolizes the power of Christianity in the 14th century and was once part of St. Martin's Cathedral.
However, much of this structure collapsed in 1674, after a tornado ravaged the city. Now, the Dom Tower stands alone in the center of Domplein. From its top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Utrecht and the surrounding area, with Amsterdam visible in the distance.
7. St. Martin's Cathedral
As mentioned above, St. Martin's Cathedral and the Dom Tower were once one. But the tornado in 1674 tore the structures apart, causing the naves to collapse and never be rebuilt, while the Dom Tower remained isolated to the east.
Today, St. Martin's Cathedral is an impressive example of classic French Gothic style, with a square and a museum area displaying archaeological artifacts, attracting many tourists for sightseeing.
8. Speelklok Museum
If you're looking for a fun cultural activity in the heart of Utrecht, then the Speelklok Museum is a must-visit! The Speelklok Museum will take you through the wonderful world of self-playing musical instruments, filled with cheerful melodies from all corners of the museum.
Established since 1956, the museum has become renowned in the Netherlands and worldwide. The museum's restoration workshops are leading companies in their field and are known for their excellent standards.
9. De Haar Castle
Located east of Utrecht, De Haar Castle appears as if from a fairy tale, with its majestic turrets and beautiful rose gardens.
This Neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece dates back to the Middle Ages, around the 13th century, and was renovated and rebuilt by the Rothschild family in 1892. De Haar Castle currently boasts over 200 rooms and 30 bathrooms, all lavishly decorated with valuable sculptures and paintings.
Here, you'll feel like you've stumbled into a harmonious and enchanting oasis.
10. Utrecht University Botanic Gardens
Although located on the outskirts of Utrecht, this amazing botanical garden is definitely a place you'll want to visit to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some stunning scenery from flowers and plants.
Established in 1639, the Utrecht University Botanic Gardens, covering 8 hectares, is divided into 6 different areas. You can stroll through an interesting rock garden, spot forest birds, and then be amazed by the colorful butterflies in its tropical greenhouse.
Exploring Haarlem, Netherlands
Haarlem is a municipality adjacent to Amsterdam, located in the northwest of the Netherlands. Its history dates back to the pre-medieval era when early settlers sought trading opportunities on the North Sea and had to pass through Haarlem to reach Amsterdam. Today, Haarlem is a charming city with a rich cultural scene, cafes, restaurants, shops, and some of the best museums in the Netherlands.
11. Molen De Adriaan Windmill
Windmills are synonymous with the Netherlands! This country boasts a series of windmills that have stood the test of time, and Haarlem is the home of the historic Molen De Adriaan windmill.
The original windmill dates back to 1779, becoming a prominent landmark spanning Haarlem's skyline for centuries. It was destroyed by fire in 1932 and rebuilt in 2002 as a museum of its own history and that of Haarlem. The new windmill's blades still turn, and everything operates just as Dutch windmills have done for centuries. Don't forget to cross the Spaarne river and capture some stunning photos of this magnificent landmark.
12. Grote Kerk Cathedral
Grote Kerk Cathedral is one of the most visited landmarks in Haarlem, built in the 1500s after the destruction of the previous wooden structure, becoming the city's grand architectural masterpiece.
The standout features include numerous beautiful stained glass windows, an elaborately decorated giant organ where geniuses like Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Händel once played, and intricately designed wooden ceiling beams.
13. Teylers Museum
Established in 1778, Teylers is regarded as the oldest museum in the Netherlands located beside the Spaarne River. A visit to the Teylers Museum is like embarking on a journey through the back of a cupboard and into a new and unfamiliar land.
Teylers Museum boasts extensive collections in art, natural history, and science. Particularly, don't miss the Oval Room, designed for study, research, and conducting scientific experiments.
14. Amsterdamse Poort City Gate
Amsterdamse Poort is an ancient city gate of Haarlem, located at the end of the old road from Amsterdam to Haarlem and is the only remaining gate from the original twelve city gates.
This imposing city gate was built in 1355 to defend the city of Haarlem. By the 17th century, Amsterdamse Poort city gate became part of the city's fortifications. Today, this structure is a national monument, a magnificent architecture for everyone to behold.
15. Local Shopping Hotspots
It's no wonder that the city of Haarlem has been awarded the title of 'Best Shopping City in the Netherlands' three times! Shopping enthusiasts visiting Haarlem will surely not want to miss out on the famous luxury brands at the stores on Grote Houtstraat or seek something unique in Gouden Straatjes: from fashion, accessories, homeware, toys, antiques, and more.
#teamKlook can explore Haarlem's shopping gold streets: Zijlstraat, Koningstraat, Gierstraat, Schagchelstraat, Kleine Houtstraat, Anegang, and Warmoesstraat.
Rotterdam Travel Destinations
Located in the South of the Netherlands, Rotterdam is known as a major economic and logistics hub, as well as the largest seaport in Europe. The city boasts a unique blend of authentic old neighborhoods and modern architecture in its center, with many prominent landmarks, monuments, and architectural marvels.
The stories of the city's destruction, reconstruction, and the local drive for innovation continue to shape their city, making Rotterdam an intriguing place to visit.
16. Euromast Tower
Don't miss the chance to admire the stunning skyline of Rotterdam from a height of 185m at the Euromast Tower, an iconic landmark of Rotterdam. The tower was built in 1960 and reached its current height in 1970, becoming the tallest structure in the Netherlands.
In just 30 seconds, the glass elevator inside the Euromast Tower will take you up to 100m, where there's an observation deck and a beer restaurant. Then, the rotating Euroscope elevator continues to take you up to the tower's highest point to get a unique panoramic view of the city from above.
17. Cube Houses
Unfortunately, Rotterdam was heavily bombed during World War II. City planners decided that instead of repairing old buildings, they would create newer, more innovative architecture.
That's why Rotterdam today is home to some of the most modern buildings, not only in the Netherlands but also in Europe as a whole. And the Cube Houses are a prime example. The choice of yellow for the facade was made for the psychological effect it creates: optimism and brightness. Don't forget to visit the Kijk-Kubus (Show-Cube) to experience life inside the Cube Houses.
18. FutureLand Center
Located within the expanded area of Maasvlakte 2 at the Port of Rotterdam, this free information center, FutureLand, provides you with the opportunity to learn all about port operations through various rich exhibitions.
If you're interested in how ports work or simply want to spend some time by the sea, taking a boat trip to FutureLand will offer many fascinating experiences. Take a virtual reality tour through the new port area or hop on the FutureLand Express to explore the world's most modern port area, or dine at the restaurant on site.
19. Erasmusbrug Swan Bridge
Erasmusbrug is an 800m-long bridge spanning the Nieuwe Maas River and connecting the North and South ends of Rotterdam. Completed in 1996, the bridge is part of the redevelopment of the old port area and was specially designed to be an iconic architectural feature for Rotterdam.
The beautiful cable-stayed structure and striking white color have earned this stunning bridge the nickname Swan Bridge.
20. Markthal Covered Market
You might see covered markets elsewhere in the world, but Rotterdam's Markthal is where delicious food and unique housing are harmoniously combined under a spectacular arch.
This unique structure was built in 2009, when new European regulations imposed stricter requirements for selling fish, meat, and cheese outdoors. And after 5 years of construction, Markthal has not only become a shopping and dining hub for Rotterdammers, but also a place that attracts tourists to visit and admire the artworks inside and outside the Markthal.
Tourist Attractions in The Hague Netherlands
The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and has served as the country's political capital for centuries. For over 100 years, numerous international organizations have been based in The Hague, and the city has a deep relationship with the United Nations.
Moreover, The Hague boasts countless museums housing some of the world's greatest art collections, as well as fantastic beaches in Kijkduin and Scheveningen. Especially with an exciting The Hague tour from Klook, you'll be guided through the city's most beautiful landmarks in a day.
21. Binnenhof Building
Binnenhof is a complex of buildings in the heart of The Hague, next to Hofvijver Lake. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic architectural marvel was originally the residence of Dutch counts and became the political center of the Dutch Republic in 1584. Binnenhof is one of the oldest parliamentary buildings in the world still in use. The Binnenhof heritage site attracts visitors with its blend of historical significance and political importance.
22. Madurodam Park
Madurodam Park recreates a miniature Netherlands at a scale of 1:25, allowing you to explore the entire country in an hour. It has been one of the most famous attractions in the Netherlands since it opened in The Hague in 1952. Madurodam showcases the culture, history of the Netherlands in models of bridges, canals, windmills, and major landmarks of the country.
23. Scheveningen Lighthouse
The Scheveningen Lighthouse is a national monument, built in 1875 and rebuilt in the late 19th century. The bright red building was raised higher, with light in the tower once revolving over mercury but later replaced by an electric light. The surrounding houses at the base were built for lighthouse keepers and supervisors. Are you ready to climb the 159 steps of the Scheveningen Lighthouse to enjoy the magnificent views over the North Sea? Take advantage of this great opportunity when visiting The Hague!
24. Louwman Museum
The Louwman Museum showcases over 250 vintage and classic cars, including vehicles dating back to 1886 and early motorcycles. Top cars include a 1957 Jaguar XKD 606 Le Mans winner and a 1935 Laconda champion.
The entire collection is considered one of the most beautiful and oldest vintage car collections in the world. The museum also houses a collection of car paintings and drawings by artist Frederick Gordon Crosby.
25. Royal Delft Pottery Workshop
Royal Delft is where the famous Delft Blue pottery brand has been created since 1653, and Delft Blue ceramics have become a pride of the Dutch.
Centuries-old craftsmanship has been passed down from generation to generation, and artisans still create iconic pieces to this day. In addition to classic works, the collection also includes contemporary decorative items. Want to see how Delft Blue pottery is made? Visit the Royal Delft Museum.
122. Visa Requirements for Traveling to the Netherlands
Similar to France and Switzerland, the Netherlands is one of the 26 European countries participating in the Schengen Agreement, which regulates free movement between member states. Therefore, to travel to the Netherlands and other Schengen countries, you need to obtain a Schengen visa.
Typically, 90 days is the maximum allowed duration for traveling in the Netherlands and freely moving to other Schengen countries. Based on the experience of many #teamKlook travelers, to increase your chances of success, you need to determine the purpose of your trip, the duration of stay, and choose the most suitable visa type to prepare the corresponding documents.
The processing time for Dutch visa applications will take about 2 weeks, depending on the status of your application. During this time, Dutch consular staff may request you to verify information and provide additional documents. Therefore, #teamKlook recommends submitting the application at least 15 working days and within 90 days before departure to allow sufficient processing time.
127. Independent Travel Tips for the Netherlands
To have the best experiences in the land of windmills, Klook travel enthusiasts should quickly pocket some useful tips below.
129. Best Time to Travel to the Netherlands Independently
Similar to other coastal countries in Europe, the Netherlands experiences all four seasons, with warm sunny summers and chilly winters marked by a certain amount of rain. The climate in the Netherlands is never too harsh, so you can visit the country at any time, depending on your exploration preferences and itinerary.
Tourists often visit the Netherlands from April to September, but the peak season is July and August – summer, when beaches are usually crowded and outdoor cafes are always busy! If you come in mid-April and May, you'll get to see beautiful tulip fields in full bloom.
From January to March, and from October to late November are considered low seasons, when the weather is usually colder, gloomier, and more rainy. But this means fewer crowds and lower costs for food and accommodation.
During Christmas season, the city lights up again with Christmas markets and festivals, ice skating activities, and parades. Especially, winters in the Netherlands are not too harsh, although you may encounter some foggy days.
135. Transportation Options for Independent Travel in the Netherlands
From Vietnam, numerous airlines operate flights to the Netherlands, but unfortunately, there are no direct flights, requiring a layover at one or two points. Some airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Emirates, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, etc., offer flights to Amsterdam's Schiphol International Airport with flight durations of 16 hours or more.
You can depart from one of Vietnam's three major international airports: Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang (Da Nang).
Upon arriving in the Netherlands, #teamKlook doesn't need to worry about transportation. The Netherlands is a relatively small country, so getting around is quite simple and cost-effective.
The excellent railway network of Europe allows you to travel around the Netherlands as well as to other European countries. Additionally, buses are also an efficient mode of transport, replacing trains, albeit taking a bit more time. If you can drive, consider renting a car or cycling in the Netherlands, as the road system here is very good and easy to navigate.
141. Essential Utilities for Independent Travel in the Netherlands
Your trip to the Netherlands will surely be filled with beautiful images of tulip fields and windmills. So, don't forget to prepare a 4G SIM card or a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot to share information with friends, family, or update your exciting activities in the Netherlands. These utilities will help you save a lot on international roaming costs.
4. Booking Accommodation for Independent Travel in the Netherlands
Certainly, accommodation is one of the major expenses of traveling to the Netherlands. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose luxurious, comfortable, or simply safe accommodations to rest your feet.
Based on #teamKlook's experience, the shortage of rooms in Amsterdam is quite common, so you should always book as early as possible. Additionally, hotel room prices here are always about 30% higher than elsewhere. Therefore, don't forget to book through Klook's system and apply exclusive discount codes to save as much as possible.
- Camping. Almost all cities in the Netherlands have campsites in the suburbs with convenient transportation connections to the city center.
- Hostel/Guesthouse. You'll find many guesthouses or hostels in major cities of the Netherlands. The cleanliness of hostels in the Netherlands is rated quite good.
- Homestay. Small family-style accommodations like homestays can be found everywhere in the Netherlands. They offer simple yet comfortable accommodations, often with home-cooked breakfast daily.
- Hotel/Apartment. In most cases, you'll receive a clean, modern hotel room with a range of modern amenities. Additionally, apartments are great for longer stays as they provide you with a bit more space and self-catering options.
- Hotel/Luxury Resort. The Netherlands has plenty to offer for those who enjoy luxury and sophistication. Luxury resorts will provide excellent services with stunning views of the surrounding area.
While there are still sunny days, pack your backpack and explore the colorful nature, travel through the unique stories of each region. Don't forget to visit Klook Vietnam to update the travel tips for independent travel in Europe updated-on-a-regular-basis; for example, top tourist attractions in Paris, famous tourist spots in France, 14-day Europe travel itinerary, Swiss Travel Pass, and much more. Make sure your trip to the Netherlands will be more exciting with travel guides from Klook.
Now, mark your calendar to explore the top tourist destinations in the Netherlands!
