Top 10 Tourist Destinations to Explore in the Netherlands

Amsterdam is probably the first place that comes to mind when we think of the Netherlands, and definitely for a good reason. But, have you ever wondered what else is waiting to be explored in this small country? Beyond the peripheries of the capital city, you will find fields flooded with vibrant tulips, long rows of mighty windmills, rolling green farmlands, lakes, canals and cities bursting with charm galore!

Here’s a list of the best offbeat destinations in Netherlands to help you get started!

1. Madurodam 

Madurodam is a tiny park and a thriving tourist attraction in The Hague. The park features miniature replicas of Dutch castles, public buildings, prominent industrial projects and a lot more. Once here, guests can ramble through the rich history of the Netherlands, while enjoying a plethora of hands-on activities — be a part of interactive experiences like loading cargo ships in the small port of Rotterdam or helping a plane take off at the Schiphol airport.

Madurodam is open all year round and starts its flurry of activities at 9:00 am.  

2. Giethoorn 

Away from the embankments of the city, Giethoorn is almost a car-free village in the province of Overijssel.  Known as the ‘Venice of Netherlands,’ the entire town is connected by quaint canals. Rent a boat and explore the waterways, or hop on a bicycle and discover the Dutch countryside, replete with verdant fields and farm animals. Visit the Het Olde Maat Uus Museum to see how a traditional farmhouse looked like almost a century ago, or, head to the Museum de Oude Aarde to explore the extensive collection of gemstones and minerals. Oh! Do not miss the De Weerribben Wieden National Park to trace the magnificent hiking and cycling trails, and unwind at terrace cafes and restaurants.

3. Thorn

Think postcard-pretty when you think Thorn! Nearing the Belgian border in the Limburg province, this stunning city will lead you to cobbled stone roads, as you admire the pristine white brick buildings! As you trot the pretty town, giving in to the relaxed ethos, do learn the story behind the white houses, and if possible, do contemplate a stay in one of the white dwellings! And, if history piques your interest, you must head to the Thorn Museum, offering a guided tour through an impeccable audio system.

4. Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is a rustic Dutch countryside located in the province of South Holland, renowned for its 18^th-century windmills that were built to prevent flooding.  Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the water controlling system that has been around for over 1000 years.

When here, take a look inside the two museum windmills and watch the informative film at the Wisboomgemaal Visitor’s Center. The guides at the windmill workshop (Molenwerkplaats) also explain how the pumps functioned.  You can also hop up on the canal cruiser to sail past the windmills, or cycle your way around to experience the beauty of Kinderdijk.  

5. Haarlem

Haarlem is one of the most photographed destinations in the country! Start with the Grote Market that captivates with its charming sites and rustic street markets, and then check out the stunning views from the wooden Molen de Adriaan windmill that also offers guided tours. And, artists can enjoy the golden-age art at the Frans Hals Museum. Do pair that trip with a quick saunter around the boutique-lined Streets of Gold, that offers independent labels and beautiful antiques.

6. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the country’s second-largest city! Renowned for its cube houses, this port city is a paradise for photographers. While here, check out its architectural marvels, entertainment hubs, excellent museums, and maritime attractions. Visit the Old Harbour and sit out in one of the cafes here. You can also visit the Maritime Museum that looks into Rotterdam’s connection with the sea, and explore the Harbour Museum, which is an open-air facility. Art lovers should definitely head to the Netherlands Photo Museum, and Kunsthal- Rotterdam’s Art Hall, showcasing the changing culture across the globe.    

7. Lisse ​

Lisse is Netherlands’s flower-bulb region! A-cannot-be-missed town, it’s home to the Keukenhof Garden that remains open from March to May. Fall in love with the array of technicolor tulips here, which bloom forth during spring and is the largest flower show in the world. Also, interestingly, the flower bulbs of the city are exported across the world. Do check out the Keukenhof Castle near the Keukenhof Garden and take their guided tour to see what life was like during the Dutch Golden Age! The Museum Black Tulip that details the history of the tulip bulb is also a must-visit.

8. Zaanse Schans​

Zaanse Schans conjures up an image of beautiful windmills and distinctive green wooden houses that have been relocated here to recreate the magical look of an 18^th and 19^th-century European village. Stroll through the bakery museum, or take a sneak peek into the warehouse where clogs are made. The cheese factory, windmills, and the pewter foundry are some other spots that you must explore!

9. Utrecht

Seated in the central part of the Netherlands, this religious center is famous for its inner canals that have wharfs and wharf cellars dotted with restaurants, cafes, craft shops, and boutiques. When here, you can enjoy the authentic European cafés, when you’re not exploring the city on foot or on a bicycle, since Utrecht is a car-free zone. Love shopping? Head to Hoog Catharijne, that’s home to over 150 stores.

10. Texel Island

The bustling Texel Island sits along the Wadden Islands, and offers a breathtaking landscape unlike any other mainland you have encountered! From the sweeping dunes, lavender filled salty marshes to the beach-lined bungalows; Texel Island is a pure slice of heaven. When here, you’ll enjoy looking at the endless meditative fields, and relishing home-made ice creams.

You can also explore the authentic Dutch Fisherman’s village of Oosterend, and head to the Texels Brewery in Oudeschild for beer tastings.

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