Top 10 Things to Do in the Netherlands
The Netherlands packs so much into its compact borders – from grand cities to green spaces, picturesque waterways, and miles of coastline – that it’s easy to enjoy numerous unique and memorable experiences throughout the country, even on a short trip.
1. Captain an Electric Boat to Explore Amsterdam’s Canals
Renting a boat for a few hours lets you navigate Amsterdam’s watery landscape at your own pace. In the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal ring and surrounding waterways, you can glide past landmarks like the Westerkerk’s belltower, beautiful bridges, photogenic canal houses containing charming shops, cozy restaurants, museums, and regenerating docklands. Choose a fine day, pack a picnic from local street markets, and set sail.
Planning Tip: Electric boats are emission-free and don’t require a boat license or prior experience (instruction is provided at pickup).
2. View Van Gogh Masterpieces in the Hoge Veluwe National Park
A wonderland of pine forests, heath, grassland, and sand drifts, the 135-acre Hoge Veluwe National Park is laced with hiking and biking trails. At the heart of the park, the astonishing Kröller-Müller Museum holds the greatest collection of Van Gogh’s works outside Amsterdam, including masterpieces and sculptures by renowned artists such as Rodin and Henry Moore.
Planning Tip: Buy national park tickets in advance or at park entrances. Time-slot tickets for the museum must be pre-booked online.
3. Mudwalk on the Wadden Sea
Slogging through muddy flats might not seem appealing at first, but wadlopen (“mudwalking”) across vast stretches of mud is an unforgettable experience. At low tide, the Wadden Sea reveals the seafloor; it’s even possible to reach the Frisian islands of Ameland and Schiermonnikoog.
Planning Tip: Always go with a trained guide and wear season-appropriate clothing (many places rent footwear).
4. Visit Fairytale Medieval Castle Muiderslot
Resembling a storybook castle, Muiderslot was constructed in the 13th century and renovated into a national museum in 1878. From its striking gardens to themed audio tours, visitors can immerse themselves in centuries of history while enjoying picturesque views from its ramparts.
Planning Tip: Consider taking a ferry from Amsterdam’s IJburg neighborhood from April to October for a scenic route to the castle.
5. Taste Trappist Beer Near Tilburg
At Koningshoeven Abbey, monks have been brewing Trappist beer since 1884 in a serene pastoral setting. Guided tours offer an insight into the process and an opportunity to taste these divine ales.
6. Cycle Through Tulip Fields in the Bollenstreek
Immerse your senses while cycling past the vibrant fields of tulips along the 21-mile Bloemenroute in the Bollenstreek. Springtime unveils the Netherlands’ famous tulips alongside other beautiful flowers, making this scenic ride an essential part of your trip.
Planning Tip: Leiden is a great base for exploring the tulips with plenty of bicycle rental options available.
7. Step Inside a Museum Storage Facility in Rotterdam
Even with the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen closed for renovations until 2029, visitors can still see exceptional collections at the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen. Explore its vast catalog of artistic treasures in a climate-controlled facility featuring panoramic views of the city.
8. Wander Past Windmills at Kinderdijk
Discover the iconic Dutch windmill scene at Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing 19 historic windmills. Stroll or cycle along the canals while absorbing the picturesque landscape and visiting local museums.
9. Delve into Underground Caves and Passages in Maastricht
Gain insight into Maastricht’s rich history by surveying the landscape from Fort Sint Pieter, then explore the city’s extensive network of caves and passages on a subterranean tour.
10. Eat Cheese in Edam
Edam is renowned for its round, red-rind cheese, offering numerous opportunities to indulge in its rich flavors at local restaurants and shops. Make sure to visit the charming cheese market held during summer months, where you can buy cheeses from local farms.
Planning Tip: Edam is a delightful 14-mile bike ride north of Amsterdam, perfect for a day trip.
