The Netherlands offers picturesque canals, historic cities, and a relaxed cycling culture. You find art, design, and nature woven into everyday life.
Discover Netherlands
Discover Netherlands
Why visit Netherlands?
What to expect
From canal-lined Amsterdam to the modern skyline of Rotterdam and the political heart of The Hague, each city has a distinct character. Tulip fields, windmills, and North Sea beaches add a gentle countryside contrast.
Plan your trip
The Netherlands is compact and well connected, so you can base yourself in one city and explore many others by train. It also serves as a convenient gateway to neighbouring European countries by rail and air.
Top experiences in Netherlands
Wander the canals of Amsterdam
Stroll or cruise along Amsterdam canals, pausing at narrow bridges, waterside cafés, and museums housed in elegant canal houses.
Explore Dutch art and museums
Visit the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, or discover contemporary works in Rotterdam and The Hague.
See tulip fields in bloom
In spring, head to Keukenhof Gardens or the surrounding bulb fields to walk among colourful tulip displays and landscaped gardens.
Cycle like a local
Rent a bicycle in cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Groningen and follow clearly marked paths through parks and historic districts.
Visit windmills and historic villages
Take a day trip to places like Zaanse Schans or Kinderdijk to see traditional windmills, wooden houses, and waterside walking routes.
Relax on the North Sea coast
Escape to beaches near The Hague or on the Wadden Islands, where you can walk sandy shores and enjoy fresh sea air.
Discover Dutch design and architecture
Explore cutting-edge architecture in Rotterdam and design-focused boutiques and galleries across major Dutch cities.
Experience Netherlands way of life
Getting around
Trains link Amsterdam Schiphol Airport with major Dutch cities quickly and frequently, while trams, buses, and bikes help you move easily within urban areas. The country is compact, so day trips by rail are straightforward to plan.
Local life & culture
Life in the Netherlands feels open and informal, with a strong café culture, thriving arts scenes, and a love of being outdoors. You notice a high appreciation for design, sustainability, and community events in cities and towns.
Where to unwind
You can unwind in city parks such as Amsterdam Vondelpark, riverside paths in Utrecht, or dune landscapes along the North Sea coast. Many Dutch towns also offer quiet canals and leafy neighbourhoods ideal for slow walks.
A taste of Netherlands
National dishes & specialties
Try favourites such as stroopwafels, Dutch cheeses, and hearty dishes like stamppot, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Gouda, and Leiden. Coastal towns are known for fresh herring and other seafood specialties.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You find casual cafés, food halls, and bistros across Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht offering both Dutch comfort food and global flavours. Many neighbourhoods feature relaxed eateries perfect for a quick bite between sights.
Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, look for waterside restaurants along canals or harbourfronts, or choose a high-floor venue with skyline views. Some cities also offer fine-dining spots in historic buildings for a memorable setting.
Retail therapy in Netherlands
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In and around Amsterdam and Rotterdam you find modern malls and shopping centres featuring international brands alongside Dutch labels. Many also include cafés, cinemas, and lifestyle stores under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Browse city markets in Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague for flowers, cheese, vintage finds, and handmade goods. Smaller towns often host weekly markets where you can pick up local products and regional specialties.
Evening retail scene
In major Dutch cities, shopping streets stay lively into the evening on late-opening days, with illuminated windows and busy cafés nearby. Some markets and concept stores also host occasional night events and festivals.
Best time to visit Netherlands
Spring, from March to May, is a shoulder season with mild temperatures around 8–15°C (46–59°F) and blooming tulip fields drawing visitors. Summer, from June to August, is the peak season, with temperatures typically between 17–22°C (63–72°F), longer daylight hours, and many outdoor events. Autumn and winter, from September to February, are low season, with cooler temperatures from 2–12°C (36–54°F), quieter attractions, and a cosy atmosphere in Dutch cities.