Welcome to The Netherlands, also known as Holland, a small country located in Western Europe. Although small in size, The Netherlands is a country that provides its visitors with a range of natural landscapes, rich culture, and hospitable people. It is known for its flat landscapes, picturesque canals, windmills, tulip fields, and cycling paths. If you’re planning a trip to The Netherlands, then this blog post is for you! We’re going to give you an overview of this beautiful country, its culture, people and what to expect while visiting.
An Overview of The Netherlands – Get to Know the Landscape, Culture and People
Geography and Landscape
The Netherlands is a flat country with a typical landscape of polders (low-lying land surrounded by dikes that protect it from the sea), windmills, and canals. It has seventeen provinces, and the most populated provinces are North Holland, South Holland, North Brabant, and Gelderland. The country is also known for its vast green countryside dotted with quaint villages and its famous coastline.
Culture and People
The Netherlands is a country with an open and tolerant culture. Its people are friendly, welcoming, and helpful, making it easy for tourists to navigate the country. The Dutch are famous for their cheese, clogs, beer, and Windmills. Additionally, they are considered the architects of the bicycle culture with over 23 million bikes for its 17 million residents, adding to the mobility of the country.
Amsterdam
Photo Credits: Robin Ooode
Amsterdam is The Netherlands’ capital, one of the most visited cities in Europe attracting millions of tourists every year. It is known for its stunning architecture, red-light district, and coffee shops. The city is also surrounded by beautiful canals that have been awarded a UNESCO world heritage site. If you’re visiting Amsterdam, make sure you take a canal tour to explore the city’s beauty from a different perspective.
Food
The Dutch are known for their love of cheese, and they produce more than 800 different types of cheese. You can also indulge in the famous Dutch stamppot, a traditional mashed potato dish that you can combine with different vegetables, such as carrot and kale, or sausage. You can also try the famous “friet met,” which is Belgium fries with mayonnaise, a perfect snack while walking around.
What to See and Do – The Best Tours and Attractions to Explore
Amsterdam Canal Tour
One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is by taking a canal tour. This relaxing boat ride allows you to see the city from a unique perspective and learn about its history and culture. There are many different companies that offer canal tours, but I recommend taking a smaller boat tour that’s less crowded and more intimate. Some tours even include drinks and snacks, making for a delightful afternoon or evening outing.
Keukenhof Gardens
If you’re visiting the Netherlands in the spring, you simply cannot miss the Keukenhof Gardens. Located in Lisse, just a short drive from Amsterdam, these gardens are home to over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers in every color of the rainbow. This stunning floral display is a true wonder of nature and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Netherlands.
Van Gogh Museum
Art lovers will want to visit the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. This museum contains the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and drawings, as well as works by other artists who were influenced by his style. The museum also provides an in-depth look at Van Gogh’s life and the history of his artistic career. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
Historic Windmills
Poto Credits: AXP Photography
The windmills of the Netherlands are an iconic sight, and a visit to one of these historic mills is a unique experience. There are several windmills located throughout the country, but the Kinderdijk windmills near Rotterdam are a particularly popular destination. Here, you can see 19 beautifully preserved windmills, which were built in the 18th century to drain the surrounding land and prevent flooding.
Rotterdam Market Hall
The Rotterdam Market Hall is a futuristic market hall and apartment complex that’s worth a visit even if you’re not a fan of shopping. The building’s colorful exterior and interior design are stunning, and there’s a wide variety of food and drink stands inside offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses to international cuisine. Be sure to sample some stroopwafels, a traditional Dutch treat made of two thin waffle cookies with a caramel filling.
Where to Stay – Accommodation Options for All Budgets and Desires
Hostels
Hostels are a popular choice for travelers on a budget. These facilities offer dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas. They are perfect for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking to meet new people. While hostels might not be the most luxurious option, they are inexpensive and provide a unique experience. Some popular options in the Netherlands include Stayokay and a&o Hostels.
Hotels
For those who prefer a little more privacy and comfort, hotels are a great option. There are plenty of hotels in the Netherlands, ranging from budget-friendly options to five-star luxury hotels. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying in a boutique hotel. These smaller hotels offer personalized service and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Some popular hotels in the Netherlands include citizenM, Hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam, and The Hoxton.
Apartments
If you’re planning an extended stay in the Netherlands, or simply prefer to have your own space, an apartment might be the best choice for you. Apartments can be rented for short or long-term stays and provide all the amenities of home. There are plenty of options available on websites like Airbnb and Booking.com. Keep in mind that depending on the location and amenities, apartments can be more expensive than other options.
Houseboats
For a truly unique experience, consider staying on a houseboat. The Netherlands is known for its extensive network of canals and waterways, and there are plenty of houseboats available for rent. Staying on a houseboat allows you to experience the country in a whole new way, with picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere. Amsterdam is a popular destination for houseboats, but they are available throughout the country.
Camping
For those who love the outdoors, camping is a great option. The Netherlands has plenty of campsites available, ranging from basic facilities to full-service resorts. Camping allows you to get up close and personal with nature, and it’s an affordable option for families or groups. Some popular campsites in the Netherlands include De Hoge Veluwe, De Nieuwe Bosplaats, and Camping de Paal.
Photo Credits: Ewien van Bergeijk – Kwant
Eating Out – Delicious Dutch Cuisine with Local Flair
Stamppot
Stamppot is a hearty Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, usually kale or turnips. It’s often served with a sausage or bacon. It’s a perfect comfort food for a cold Dutch day. The best place to try this dish is in the traditional Dutch “eetcafes” or local bars that serve food. Near Amsterdam’s famous Rembrandtplein square, there’s an authentic Dutch bar called “Cafe de Pels” that serves a delicious stamppot.
Bitterballen
Bitterballen are small deep-fried crispy balls filled with a meat ragout and served with mustard. It’s a classic Dutch snack and you can find it in almost every bar in the Netherlands. If you want to try this dish in a fancier setting, try Restaurant Van Speijk, located in the charming town of Egmond aan Zee. The restaurant’s bitterballen are often described as crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making for a perfect appetizer.
Oliebollen
Oliebollen are deep-fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar. They’re typically eaten during the Christmas and New Year holidays, but you can find them year-round. If you’re in Amsterdam and in the mood for something sweet, head to the famous bakery “Banketbakkerij van der Linde”. The bakery has been making oliebollen since 1910, so they have it down to a science.
Poffertjes
Poffertjes are small fluffy pancakes usually topped with butter and powdered sugar. You can find them at street markets or pancake restaurants in the Netherlands. If you’re in Utrecht, head to “De Oude Muntkelder”. This small family-owned restaurant has been making poffertjes for over 50 years and it’s a favorite among locals and tourists.
Haring
Photo Credits: Paul Einerhand
Haring (herring) is a Dutch delicacy, especially during the summer months. It’s usually eaten raw with onions and pickles. Be warned, the texture may take some getting used to, but it’s worth a try! Head to the “Vishandel Simonis” in The Hague or Scheveningen, a famous fish market that has been around since 1880. They lure customers in with their fresh seafood selection and a Dutch charm.
Shopping Around – Find Unique Souvenirs and Gifts
Amsterdam
The city of Amsterdam is known for its colorful and eclectic shopping scene. One of the best places to find unique souvenirs and gifts is the Nine Streets area, located in the heart of the city. This charming neighborhood is filled with independent shops, boutiques, and galleries, offering a wide range of products, from vintage clothing and jewelry to handmade ceramics and art prints. Some of our favorite shops in the Nine Streets include Pols Potten, for quirky interior designs, and Koko Coffee & Design, for sustainable fashion and accessories.
The Hague
The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands, but it also has a vibrant shopping scene, especially in the trendy neighborhoods of Zeeheldenkwartier and Frederik Hendriklaan. Here, you can find a mix of local designers, unique shops, and vintage markets, all offering something unique and special. Check out ANAHATA, for sustainable fashion and ethically-made accessories, or The Hague Market, for an authentic Dutch shopping experience.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a modern and dynamic city, with a thriving arts and culture scene. For shopping, head to Witte de Withstraat, a popular street lined with trendy shops, art galleries, and cafes. Some of the must-visit shops include Keet Rotterdam, for Dutch design and contemporary gifts, and Groos, for a wide variety of local products, from food and drinks to fashion and home decor.
Utrecht
Utrecht is a charming and picturesque city, with medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. One of the best places to shop for souvenirs and gifts is the Domplein Market, held every Saturday. Here, you can find a range of products, from handmade jewelry and textiles to antiques and vintage postcards. Another great spot for shopping is the Oudegracht, a canal-side street with many independent shops and cafes.
Haarlem
Lastly, Haarlem is a relaxed and charming city, located just a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam. Its shopping scene is focused on the Grote Houtstraat and Barteljorisstraat, two adjacent streets filled with unique shops and boutiques. Some of the notable stores include Puur Anders, for interior design and home accessories, and WAAR, for fair-trade and eco-friendly products.
Tips for an Unforgettable Experience – Insider Advice from Locals
Explore the countryside
While Amsterdam is a must-see city for any traveler in Netherlands, the countryside should not be overlooked. According to locals, some of the best experiences can be found in small towns and villages. From vibrant tulip fields to windmills by the water, exploring the countryside will give you a true taste of Dutch life.
Visit museums
Netherlands is home to some of the most famous painters in history, including Rembrandt and Van Gogh. If you’re interested in art, visiting museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are a must. But even if art isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other museums to explore, like the Anne Frank House or the interactive NEMO Science Museum.
Rent a bike
One of the best ways to explore Netherlands is by bike. Locals use bikes as their main mode of transportation and there are plenty of bike rental services available. With bike trails throughout the country, renting a bike is a great way to see the sights and get some fresh air.
Try the local cuisine
From stroopwafels to bitterballen, Dutch cuisine is full of delicious treats. According to locals, some of the best places to try the local cuisine are small, family-owned restaurants. Be sure to try the traditional Dutch dish, stamppot, a hearty meal made with mashed potatoes, vegetables, and meat.
Attend a festival
Netherlands is known for its festivals, celebrating everything from music to flowers. The most famous festival King’s Day, happens every year on April 27th and involves street parties and parades throughout the country. But there are plenty of other festivals throughout the year to enjoy, like the colorful Flower Parade or the famous Amsterdam Dance Event.
Photo Credits: George Diama
In conclusion, The Netherlands is a country that has a lot to offer its visitors. From its flat landscapes, picturesque canals, windmills, tulip fields, and cycling paths to its culture, food, and people, there is something for everyone. So why wait? Pack your bags and take a trip to Holland to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer. Don’t forget to try the delicious stroopwafel, a sweet treat that’s sure to melt in your mouth.
Photo credits: Azhar J
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Tours and Destinations in this Unique Country