12 Most Beautiful Places in Netherlands to Visit (Secrets Included!)

Everyone thinks they know what to expect from the Netherlands. Canals, tulips, windmills – you’ve seen it all on Instagram, right? But there’s something about standing on a quiet canal bridge at sunrise, or cycling through endless fields of purple heather that hits differently in person. This country packs more variety into its tiny size than it has any right to.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands that prove this country is way more than just Amsterdam. From colorful flower fields that stretch to the horizon to medieval towns that feel frozen in time, Dutch beauty has a way of sneaking up on you.

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to the Netherlands

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Dutch adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Amsterdam for just $370 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by shopping at budget supermarkets like Albert Heijn and Lidl. Local markets like Albert Cuyp offer fresh stroopwafels and other Dutch treats for half the tourist prices.
• Transport: Get an OV-chipkaart and load it with credit – it works on all trains, trams, metros, and buses nationwide. Rent a bike for city exploring (around €10/day) instead of relying on public transport in city centers. Between cycling and using off-peak train discounts, this has saved me hundreds of euros on each trip.

The Netherlands, especially Amsterdam, can be surprisingly expensive. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this charming country for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in the Netherlands:

1. Keukenhof Gardens

• 📍 Location: Lisse, South Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🌷 Tulip lovers, garden strolls, springtime getaways
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring themed gardens, boat rides past tulip fields, capturing flower displays
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Lis – Cozy base near the park with free parking

Keukenhof is what spring dreams are made of. Every year, millions of flowers bloom across 80 acres of sculpted gardens in Lisse, with tulips in every shade imaginable. The walking paths are wide and peaceful, guiding you past flower beds, fountains, and art installations. It’s more than just a photo op, this place hits all the senses.

You can hop on an electric boat ride through the surrounding bulb fields for a slow scenic view or stop by one of the indoor pavilions to see rare floral designs and rotating exhibits. The variety of colors and scents is almost overwhelming in the best way.

It does get crowded, but if you arrive early or on a weekday, it’s much calmer. Whether you’re into nature, photography, or just enjoying a slow morning outside, Keukenhof gives you a front-row seat to one of the most vibrant seasonal shows in Europe.

2. Giethoorn

• 📍 Location: Giethoorn, Overijssel
• 🏆 Best For: 🛶 Slow travel, fairy-tale scenery, boat lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cruising in a whisper boat, crossing footbridges, visiting local museums
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Harmonie – Peaceful waterfront stay right on the canal

Giethoorn feels like it belongs in a storybook. Picture narrow canals instead of streets, thatched-roof cottages, and wooden bridges connecting everything. The best way to get around is by boat, and you’ll hear nothing but the soft putter of whisper motors and the occasional duck splash.

Rent a small electric boat or hop on a guided tour to explore the village from the water. It’s peaceful, quiet, and wildly photogenic. Some of the houses have private docks with flower-covered boats, while cozy cafés line the edge of the canals for a mid-ride treat.

It’s best to visit during shoulder season or early morning when it’s not overrun with tourists. Even though it’s popular, it still manages to feel like a hidden gem. If you want a slower pace and views that feel straight out of a fantasy film, Giethoorn is your spot.

3. Zaanse Schans

• 📍 Location: Zaandam, North Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🌬️ Windmill views, Dutch traditions, cultural day trips
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting a working windmill, watching clog carving, sampling local cheese
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Heerlijck Slaapen op de Zaanse Schans – Charming B&B inside a historic house

Zaanse Schans is like stepping into a Dutch postcard. Rows of towering windmills line the riverbank, each one still spinning and working like they did centuries ago. The wooden houses, painted in green and white, look like they haven’t aged a day.

You can explore the windmills up close, climb inside, and watch how they grind spices, pigments, or oil using wind power. There are artisan workshops where you can see clogs being made by hand and taste cheese the old-fashioned way. Everything is walkable and designed to teach you something while still being fun.

Although it’s just outside Amsterdam, it feels like a different world. Go early in the morning to skip the tour buses and enjoy the breeze from the river while locals bike past. Zaanse Schans keeps old Dutch traditions alive in a way that’s accessible, colorful, and totally worth a visit.

4. Maastricht

• 📍 Location: Maastricht, Limburg
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Architecture lovers, history buffs, foodies
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the city walls, underground cave tours, dining at Vrijthof Square
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Monastère Maastricht – Stylish former monastery near the city center

Maastricht feels more like a Belgian or French city than your typical Dutch town. Cobbled streets weave through pastel buildings, and gothic towers rise above lively cafés and bakeries. It’s laid-back but full of surprises, from Roman ruins to jazz performances in medieval squares.

The city’s past runs deep. You can literally go underground to explore limestone caves once used as wartime hideouts. Above ground, the Basilica of Saint Servatius and centuries-old bridges remind you just how long Maastricht has been around. It’s compact, so walking or biking is the best way to see it all.

Food? It’s a standout. Think more French bistro than Dutch pub. Maastricht has a growing reputation for fine dining, and even the casual spots serve up local wine and Limburg pies. If you want a Dutch city that doesn’t feel entirely Dutch, this is where to go.

5. Utrecht

• 📍 Location: Utrecht, Utrecht Province
• 🏆 Best For: 🚲 Urban cyclists, canal explorers, hidden-gem seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Dom Tower, dining along canal wharves, exploring Museum Speelklok
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to October 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mother Goose Hotel – Boutique rooms in a cool historic building

Utrecht doesn’t try too hard, and that’s its charm. It’s younger, less touristy than Amsterdam, but just as full of personality. The canals here are lower than street level, lined with old cellars turned into cafes, studios, and hangouts. It’s low-key magical, especially at night when the bridges light up.

The Dom Tower stands tall as the city’s landmark. If you’re up for the climb, the views stretch far beyond the rooftops. Utrecht is also home to quirky museums and cool neighborhoods like Lombok and Voorstraat, packed with record stores, indie shops, and cozy food spots.

Locals ride bikes like it’s second nature, and it’s easy to join them. Even with the student crowd, the vibe stays relaxed. Utrecht is the kind of place where you’ll find a hidden garden just off a busy street or stumble into a canal-side market without planning to.

6. The Hague

• 📍 Location: The Hague, South Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🖼️ Art lovers, beachgoers, architecture fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Mauritshuis, exploring the Peace Palace, relaxing at Scheveningen Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Indigo The Hague – Chic hotel across from the Royal Palace

The Hague mixes international importance with a surprisingly chill vibe. It’s home to the Dutch royal family and international courts, yet you can bike from a museum to the beach in less than 30 minutes. The streets are wide, the buildings are grand, and everything feels just a little more polished.

You’ll find Rembrandts and Vermeers at the Mauritshuis, then catch sunset at Scheveningen Beach with your feet in the sand. It’s not the party coast, more of a calm seaside scene with seafood stands, long promenades, and laid-back cafés.

Even with the government presence, the city doesn’t feel stiff. There’s modern architecture next to old courtyards, food trucks parked near embassies, and neighborhoods like Zeeheldenkwartier with cool design shops and brunch spots. The Hague’s vibe is a little diplomatic, a little coastal, and totally underrated.

7. Delft

• 📍 Location: Delft, South Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🏺 Art history, peaceful canals, Dutch ceramics
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Royal Delft, visiting Nieuwe Kerk, strolling Markt Square
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Emauspoort – Cozy inn steps from the city center

Delft looks like it was made for a postcard. Narrow canals, old churches, and blue-and-white pottery give the town a timeless charm. It’s small, walkable, and less crowded than other Dutch cities, which makes it feel like a secret spot, especially early in the morning when everything’s quiet.

This is the hometown of painter Johannes Vermeer, and the city honors him with museums and murals tucked in side streets. You can visit Royal Delft, the original factory for the iconic blue ceramics, and even watch artists hand-paint each piece.

The heart of Delft is its market square, where you can sip coffee under the shadow of the Nieuwe Kerk, then grab fresh stroopwafels from a street cart. It’s a place where time slows down. If you want a classic Dutch vibe without big crowds, Delft hits the spot.

8. Rotterdam

• 📍 Location: Rotterdam, South Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🏙️ Modern design, foodies, cultural festivals
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Cube Houses, visiting Boijmans Depot, walking across Erasmus Bridge
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The James Rotterdam – Stylish stay in the city center

Rotterdam flips the script on Dutch cities. After being heavily bombed in WWII, it rebuilt with bold modernism instead of nostalgia. The result is a skyline that feels more like a European version of a design museum. Imagine geometric apartments, art-filled public spaces, and architecture that makes you pause.

The Cube Houses are fun to see up close, and the new Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot lets you peek into a museum’s behind-the-scenes. Grab lunch at Markthal, where dozens of food stalls sit under a giant mural-covered arch, and don’t skip a stroll along the Erasmus Bridge as the sun sets over the Maas River.

Rotterdam also has a cool, creative energy. Festivals, galleries, and music venues pop up in reimagined industrial buildings. It’s edgy without being overwhelming, and perfect for travelers who want something a little different from the usual canal town vibe.

9. Veluwe

• 📍 Location: Gelderland, central Netherlands
• 🏆 Best For: 🌲 Nature lovers, hikers, peaceful retreats
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cycling in Hoge Veluwe, spotting wildlife, visiting Kröller-Müller Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Sterrenberg – Modern nature retreat near the park entrance

The Veluwe is where you go to recharge. Dense forests, wide heathlands, and drifting sand dunes make this region one of the best natural escapes in the Netherlands. It’s quiet, spacious, and ideal for long walks or bike rides without the usual tourist buzz.

Inside Hoge Veluwe National Park, you’ll find free-to-use white bikes and well-marked paths through forests, moors, and meadows. The park is also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which has one of Europe’s top Van Gogh collections, plus a massive sculpture garden set in nature.

Outside the park, villages like Otterlo and Ede are solid hubs with bike rentals, bakeries, and local inns. If you want to explore the Netherlands beyond cities and canals, the Veluwe offers a laid-back, scenic side that’s easy to reach and great for a weekend outdoors.

10. Texel Island

• 📍 Location: North Holland, West Frisian Islands
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖 Beach lovers, 🚲 cyclists, 🐦 nature escapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cycling the dunes, visiting Ecomare, seal watching at De Slufter
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel Texel – Cozy, eco-friendly stay with island charm

Texel is the Netherlands’ largest Wadden Island, and it’s got everything you’d want in a weekend escape like wide beaches, breezy bike trails, and wildlife you actually get to see up close. It’s peaceful but never boring, and it’s easy to get around without a car.

Grab a rental bike when you step off the ferry and cruise through pine forests, past sand dunes, and into tiny villages like De Koog or Oudeschild. Nature reserves like De Slufter are home to birds, salt marshes, and views that stretch all the way to the North Sea.

Don’t miss a stop at Ecomare, where rescued seals are cared for and released back into the wild. You’ll also find great local markets, cheese farms, and beach cafes that feel laid-back but cozy. Texel gives you the outdoors, the sea, and local flavor all in one go.

11. Kinderdijk

• 📍 Location: South Holland, near Rotterdam
• 🏆 Best For: 🌬 Windmill lovers, 🚶 slow travelers, 📷 photography
• 📸 Top Experiences: Biking the windmill trail, visiting a working mill, catching golden hour views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Het Wapen van Alblasserdam – Modern hotel with 20 rooms, just a quick bike ride from the windmills

You’ve seen windmills in pictures, but Kinderdijk makes them feel alive. With 19 historic windmills lining the canals, this UNESCO site shows exactly how the Dutch have battled water for centuries. The whole setup is more than a postcard, it’s an engineering story that’s still running today.

The walking and biking paths here are super flat and easy to follow, with stops to peek inside working windmills that still pump water the old-fashioned way. Interactive visitor centers help break it down if you’re curious about the how and why behind the whole system.

Kinderdijk isn’t just for history buffs, it’s also one of the most photogenic spots in the country. Sunrise and sunset reflect the windmills on the still water, and it’s quiet enough that you can hear the breeze in the reeds. Bring a camera or just slow down and take it all in.

• Read next: Top Europe Attractions & Activities

12. De Biesbosch National Park

• 📍 Location: North Brabant and South Holland
• 🏆 Best For: 🚣 Kayaking, 🌿 wetland explorers, 🦫 wildlife spotting
• 📸 Top Experiences: Canoeing through creeks, hiking De Pannekoek trail, visiting beaver habitats
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Trusten – Modern rooms in nearby Werkendam, close to park access

De Biesbosch is the Netherlands’ biggest freshwater tidal wetland, and it feels totally different from the country’s usual canal-side towns. It’s wild, green, and full of narrow waterways that are best explored by kayak or canoe. You won’t find many crowds here, just birds, beavers, and silence.

The park’s layout is a maze of rivers, creeks, and willow forests. You can rent boats right at the entrance or join a small guided paddle tour if you want to learn more as you go. On foot, hiking trails like Pannekoekpad take you through wide open spaces and raised boardwalks.

Visitor centers like Biesboschcentrum Dordrecht give maps, tips, and wildlife info if you’re into birdwatching or just want to avoid getting lost. For a nature day that feels more like an adventure than a stroll, this park is easily one of the most underrated outdoor spots in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

The most scenic places in the Netherlands may interest you. Here are some frequently asked questions about the best places to visit and things to do in the Netherlands.

What is the best time of year to visit the Netherlands?

The spring and early summer months, from April to June, are ideal for visiting the Netherlands. This period sees the tulip fields in full bloom, creating a colorful spectacle. Additionally, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

What is nice in Holland?

Holland, often used to refer to the entire Netherlands, is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and innovative urban design. Here’s a look at some of the aspects that make Holland a nice place to visit or live:

1. Canals and Waterways: Cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are famous for their intricate canal systems, lined with charming houses and crossed by historic bridges. Canal tours are a popular way to explore these cities.
2. Cycling Culture: Holland is renowned for its bike-friendly cities and extensive cycling paths. Biking is a common mode of transportation and a great way to see the countryside, including the iconic windmills.
3. Tulip Fields: In spring, the country bursts into color with vast fields of tulips and other flowers. The Keukenhof Gardens near Lisse is one of the world’s largest flower gardens and a must-see during tulip season.
4. Art and Museums: Holland has a rich artistic heritage, being the home of famous painters like Rembrandt and Van Gogh. Museums like the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Van Gogh Museum house some of the most famous works of art in the world.
5. Historic Architecture: From medieval castles to modernist buildings, Holland’s architecture is diverse and fascinating. The historic centers of cities like Maastricht, Haarlem, and Delft are particularly charming.

How do I get around the Netherlands?

The Netherlands boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. For shorter distances, cycling is a popular and quintessentially Dutch mode of transport. Many cities also offer boat tours, allowing visitors to explore the scenic canals.

Is the Netherlands safe for tourists?

Yes, the Netherlands is generally safe for tourists. The country has a low crime rate, and locals are friendly and helpful. However, as with any travel destination, it’s always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and follow standard travel safety precautions.

Is the Netherlands a beautiful place?

Yes, the Netherlands is definitely a beautiful country, known for its picturesque landscapes, charming cities, and unique culture. Here’s what contributes to the beauty of the Netherlands:

1. Canals: The intricate canal systems in cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Leiden create stunning reflections and provide a unique urban charm. Canal cruises or leisurely strolls along the waterways offer beautiful perspectives of the cities.
2. Tulip Fields: In spring, the country is adorned with vibrant fields of tulips and other flowers. The colorful geometric patterns create breathtaking vistas, especially in regions like Holland.
3. Windmills: The iconic Dutch windmills, found in places like Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans, add a historical and whimsical touch to the landscape.
4. Countryside: The Dutch countryside, with its flat meadows, traditional farmhouses, and grazing animals, offers a tranquil and scenic escape.
5. Cycling Paths: The Netherlands is famous for its bike-friendly culture, and the extensive network of cycling paths allows visitors to explore both urban and rural areas in an enjoyable way.
6. Coastline: The Dutch coastline features expansive sandy beaches, rugged dunes, and lively beach resorts. Whether for relaxation, water sports, or coastal hikes, the beaches are a beautiful part of the country.
7. Historic Architecture: Cities and towns across the Netherlands boast well-preserved historic centers with beautiful buildings, squares, and streets. Maastricht, Haarlem, and Delft are just a few examples.

The Netherlands’ natural beauty, historical charm, and modern innovation creates a visually appealing and diverse destination.

Do I need to speak Dutch to travel around the Netherlands?

While Dutch is the official language, most people in the Netherlands speak English, especially in tourist areas and major cities. That said, it’s always appreciated if you learn a few basic Dutch phrases. A simple “Dank je” (thank you) can go a long way in making connections!

What are the must-try foods in the Netherlands?

Dutch cuisine offers a variety of unique and flavorful dishes. Some must-try delicacies include stroopwafels (sweet waffle cookies), bitterballen (fried meatballs), herring (often eaten raw with onions), and an array of Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam. Don’t forget to try poffertjes, tiny fluffy pancakes, often topped with powdered sugar!

What is the prettiest place in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is brimming with beautiful locations, each offering its own unique charm. Giethoorn, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” boasts picturesque canals and thatched-roof houses. The tulip fields of Keukenhof, especially during spring, are a riot of colors. However, beauty is subjective, and each traveler might discover their own favorite spot.

What is the Netherlands famous for?

The Netherlands is renowned for its iconic tulips, windmills, and intricate canal systems. The country has a rich artistic heritage, with masterpieces from legendary artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. Additionally, the Netherlands is known for its innovative water management systems, cycling-friendly cities, and progressive policies.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be discovered by every traveler. From its iconic windmills and tulip fields to its historic cities and modern architectural marvels, it offers a diverse range of attractions. It’s no wonder that the most beautiful places in the Netherlands have captivated the hearts of many, making it a top destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Visiting the Netherlands is like stepping into a postcard. Every corner of this country tells a story, be it of its rich history, its artistic legacy, or its innovative spirit. The Netherlands’s beautiful places are not just about scenic beauty; they are a testament to the country’s resilience, its commitment to sustainability, and its warm and welcoming culture. The Netherlands’ scenery, from its serene countryside to its bustling urban centers, offers a visual treat that’s hard to match.

For those wondering where to go in the Netherlands, the options are endless. Each region, each city, and each village has its own unique charm. The best places to visit in the Netherlands are those that resonate with your interests, be it art, history, nature, or cuisine. The country’s compact size makes it easy to explore, ensuring that you can experience the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands even on a short trip.

In conclusion, the Netherlands is a country that promises diverse experiences, wrapped in beauty and culture. It’s a place where traditions meet modernity, where nature coexists with urban landscapes, and where every journey becomes a cherished memory. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful places of the Netherlands, a destination that’s sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.