Exploring Beyond Amsterdam: 21 Notable Dutch Destinations
The Netherlands is not just about tulips and windmills; there's a world beyond Amsterdam waiting to be explored. Here are some underrated destinations recommended by locals and travel bloggers:
Muiden, a peaceful village just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, offers an authentic local experience away from tourist crowds. Muiderslot castle, boat-filled harbours, riverside paths, and quiet cafés are some of its highlights.
Giethoorn, nicknamed the "Venice of the North," is an enchanting village with no roads, only canals, picturesque wooden bridges, and thatched-roof houses. Visitors can rent whisper boats, walk scenic trails, and enjoy the tranquil water-side setting.
Historic market towns Gouda and Edam, famous for their cheese markets, provide charming medieval squares, cheese farm tours, and make for good half-day visits. Gouda's small food market next to the trading zone offers dozens of Gouda cheese variations.
Rotterdam, a modern city with striking architecture, contrasts Amsterdam’s historic vibe. Its Cube Houses, Erasmus Bridge, and bustling indoor market (Markthal) are must-sees.
The Hague (Den Haag) is the seat of government and royal family, known for elegant boulevards, the Peace Palace, and proximity to the North Sea coast. It offers cultural attractions with a quieter atmosphere compared to Amsterdam.
Utrecht, a historic university town, boasts vibrant energy, picturesque canals with unique wharf cellars, and the towering Dom Tower in a medieval city centre.
Zeeland, a coastal province, is praised for its scenic landscapes and peaceful environment.
The Veluwe, an area known for its extensive forests and natural beauty, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking escape into nature. The Kröller-Müller Museum in the Veluwe National Park has a famous collection of modern art.
Friesland is famous for tranquil lakes and traditional culture, appealing for those interested in Dutch regional heritage and water sports. Leeuwarden, the capital of Friesland, is known for its residents speaking both Dutch and Frisian fluently.
Groningen, a vibrant city with a large student population, is known for its historic buildings, beautiful canals, and abundant restaurants and bars.
Texel, a small island off the north coast of the Netherlands, is popular with locals as a summer staycation destination. It boasts surprisingly large white-sand beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and great food.
Haarlem, a picturesque town just a few minutes from Amsterdam by train, is known for its quirky city and a converted church brewery and beer hall.
Zaandijk and Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village in the Dutch countryside, is known for its specialty museums and brightly painted wooden homes and windmills.
Efteling, a fairytale-based theme park located in the south of the Netherlands, is the largest theme park in the country and one of the oldest in the world.
Rotterdam is famous for its huge port, the largest in Europe. Eindhoven is famous for its inspired and innovative architectural designs.
Finally, don't forget Alkmaar, another city famous for its cheese and has a cheese market that can be visited every Friday. Delft, a small town known for its historic center and famous blue pottery, completes our list of hidden gems in the Netherlands.
These places are highlighted as off-the-beaten-path gems that provide authentic Dutch experiences, less crowded environments, and a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions easily accessible from major cities. Travelers are encouraged to explore beyond Amsterdam to experience these diverse facets of the Netherlands.
- Recommended by locals and travel bloggers, Muiden offers an authentic local experience with its transport options like boats and quiet cafes, desserted from the tourist crowds.
- Food enthusiasts should visit Gouda, known for its charming medieval squares and a small food market next to the trading zone, offering numerous Gouda cheese variations.
- The Hague provides a quieter atmosphere compared to Amsterdam, featuring cultural attractions such as elegant boulevards, the Peace Palace, and a rich food scene.
