The Netherlands offers picturesque canals, historic towns, and modern art and design, all in a compact and easy-to-explore country. You will find a relaxed, creative atmosphere and a warm welcome in every city.
Discover the Netherlands
Discover the Netherlands
Why visit the Netherlands?
What to expect
Explore canal-lined Amsterdam, cutting-edge Rotterdam, and charming historic cities such as Utrecht and Delft. Expect a flat landscape made for cycling, a strong cafe culture, and museums filled with masterpieces from Dutch Golden Age painters.
Plan your trip
Use Amsterdam as your main gateway, then travel easily by train or road to other Dutch cities and neighbouring countries. The Netherlands is ideal for combining city breaks, countryside escapes, and wider European itineraries in one journey.
Top experiences in the Netherlands
Cruise Amsterdam's canals
See Amsterdam from the water on a canal cruise, gliding past gabled houses, bridges, and vibrant neighbourhoods that reveal the city from a different angle.
Explore the Dutch Masters
Visit the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum to stand face to face with iconic works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, and other celebrated Dutch artists.
Cycle like a local
Rent a bicycle and follow dedicated paths through cities, along canals, and into the countryside, experiencing how the Netherlands moves at a relaxed, two-wheeled pace.
Visit the windmills of Zaanse Schans or Kinderdijk
Step into classic Dutch landscapes with historic windmills, wooden houses, and waterways that show the country's long relationship with water management.
Wander through spring flower fields
In spring, stroll through colourful tulip fields and manicured gardens such as Keukenhof, where millions of blooms create vivid patterns across the landscape.
Discover Rotterdam's modern architecture
Walk through Rotterdam to see bold contemporary buildings, striking bridges, and innovative urban design that contrasts with the Netherlands' historic towns.
Stroll historic streets in Utrecht and Delft
Explore canal-side lanes, old churches, and lively squares in Utrecht and Delft, where student life and history blend seamlessly.
Relax on the North Sea coast
Head to seaside towns such as Zandvoort or Scheveningen to walk sandy beaches, feel the sea breeze, and enjoy casual cafes overlooking the water.
Experience the Netherlands' way of life
Getting around
The Netherlands has an efficient rail network linking Amsterdam with major cities such as Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht in under an hour. Local trams, buses, and extensive cycling paths make it easy to explore cities and nearby regions without a car.
Local life & culture
You will notice a relaxed, open-minded culture with a strong focus on community, design, and the arts. Terraces, canalsides, and public squares are social hubs where people meet, while museums, galleries, and festivals keep the cultural calendar busy all year.
Where to unwind
Find calm in city parks such as Amsterdam's Vondelpark or along quiet canals at sunset, or escape to the dunes and beaches of the North Sea coast. Further afield, national parks and polder landscapes offer tranquil walking and cycling routes through nature.
A taste of the Netherlands
National dishes & specialties
Try Dutch favourites such as herring, cheese, pancakes, and hearty stews, with Amsterdam, Gouda, and Rotterdam each known for distinctive local styles. Sweet treats such as stroopwafels and poffertjes are easy to find in city centres and markets.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Across Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other major cities, you will find casual bistros, food halls, and international eateries that reflect the country's multicultural character. From quick bites to trendy neighbourhood restaurants, there is always a new flavour to discover.
Signature & scenic dining
Enjoy canal-side terraces, waterside restaurants in old harbour districts, or panoramic dining in modern towers. Many Dutch cities offer seasonal menus that highlight local produce, seafood, and creative takes on traditional recipes in memorable settings.
Retail therapy in the Netherlands
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague feature modern shopping centres and department stores with international labels, Dutch design, and lifestyle brands. Many are in central locations, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing.
Markets & local crafts
Browse Amsterdam's markets, Rotterdam's creative districts, or Delft's historic centre for ceramics, design objects, and unique souvenirs. Local markets often feature handmade crafts, vintage finds, and specialty goods from across the country.
Evening retail scene
In major cities, shopping streets stay lively into the evening, with illuminated canals and storefronts creating a relaxed atmosphere. Late opening nights, seasonal fairs, and waterside promenades make browsing after dark part of the experience.
Best time to visit the Netherlands
Spring (April to May) is a shoulder season, with mild temperatures around 10–17°C (50–63°F) and blooming flower fields drawing visitors. Summer (June to August) is the peak season, with warmer days of about 17–22°C (63–72°F) and long daylight hours for outdoor exploring. Autumn and winter (September to March) are generally the low season, bringing cooler weather of about 3–15°C (37–59°F), quieter attractions, and a cosy atmosphere in cities.