Netherlands travel guide
Netherlands Tourism | Netherlands Guide
You're Going to Love Netherlands
Most famous for its iconic windmills and tulip fields, the Netherlands is one of the cultural hubs of Europe. Famous artists born in this country include Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.
What to do in the Netherlands
1. Explore the Renowned Museums
If you can only pick one museum to visit in the Netherlands, make it the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. With over 8,000 pieces on display, this art museum features works by Vermeer and Rembrandt.
2. Pay Homage to the Memory of Anne Frank and the Holocaust
The house of Anne Frank is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam and a must-see for those who are interested in history.
3. Enjoy the World-Famous Dutch Tulips
Visit the Keukenhof, the largest public garden in the world where you can admire the colorful tulips, among other flowers.
4. Behold the Distinctive Architecture
Take a trip to Kinderdijk, the UNESCO World Heritage Site full of 18th-century windmills.
5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Taste the Netherlands' most famous cheese Gouda at one of the cheese shops in Amsterdam.
When to visit the Netherlands
For sightseeing, the best time to visit is between June and August. You'll experience great weather but larger tourist crowds. During this time of year, planning your trip and booking ahead is crucial. The cheapest season is from November to March, but not all sights stay open year-round.
How to Get to the Netherlands
Entry Requirements
The Netherlands is part of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement. Foreign travelers from over 60 countries, including the US and Canada, don't need a visa for stays up to 90 days. A valid passport for the entire duration of your stay will be enough.
Plane
Most international flights to Netherlands land at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. The airport is connected by train to other large cities in the country like Rotterdam and Utrecht.
Train
You can reach the Netherlands from other European countries on high-speed trains. You can enter the country by train from Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Germany.
Car
The Netherlands is well-connected by road to neighbors Germany and Belgium while the large network of bike paths is clearly marked. When driving to the Netherlands pay special attention to cyclists.
Bus
IC Bus connects Germany to the Netherlands. Look at Eurolines, Flixbus, and Busabout for other routes within Europe.
Boat
There are regular ferry connections between the United Kingdom and Rotterdam, which are more frequent in the summer. If you're traveling to the Netherlands outside the high season, traveling by boat might not be the best option.
Popular airports in the Netherlands
Popular airlines serving the Netherlands
Where to stay in the Netherlands
There's a wide range of options, from luxury hotels down to hostels. Staying in the Netherlands can be pricey, but those looking for an affordable deal often find them at bed and breakfasts, short-term rentals, and rental homes. In some cities, like Amsterdam, you can also opt to stay in a houseboat.
Where to stay in popular areas of the Netherlands
Most booked hotels in the Netherlands
How to Get Around the Netherlands
Public Transportation
The country has a reliable and functional network of public transportation that includes trains, bike paths, and buses. In larger cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Amsterdam, you can also get around by tram.
Trains
Trains are operated by government-run company Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and are one of the most popular ways of getting around in the Netherlands. Most trains don't run at night, except the route that connects Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
Bus
Buses are a better choice for traveling short distances as trains are more comfortable and frequent for longer trips. Onboard tickets are usually more expensive, so the best value option is to purchase an OV-chipkaart card. This card is valid anywhere in the Netherlands.
Car
Getting around by car is not the preferred method of the Dutch and roads usually have more room for bikes than for cars. Traffic jams on highways during rush hour and high tourism season are common.
Bicycle
Traveling around the Netherlands by bicycle is not only possible but comfortable. Nearly every town and city in the country is well-equipped with bike lanes, and bikes are allowed in most public transportations.
The Cost of Living in the Netherlands
Costs for eating out are considered high in the Netherlands, with a cheap meal for two costing approximately €10-20. Groceries for a week cost approximately €50. Debit card payments and ATMs are widely available. When paying with cash, please note that some businesses only accept bills under €50.