The Netherlands is a Northwestern European country that’s name means lower countries. It’s also lovingly and informally known as Holland. 50% of the country is a mere 1 metre above sea level, and 17% of the country is actually located below sea level. As you can imagine, this has been problematic in the past and is sometimes still an issue today.
The country is known for its beautiful tulip fields and windmills, as well as its tranquil cycling routes.
Destinations in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a wonderful country, with so many facets to explore.
The country is fairly cold, but with cycling as the main mode of transport, you’ll be able to warm up in no time. While the whole country is worth a visit, there are a few places you simply can’t miss out on while you tour the Netherlands.
Cycling around each city is even more wonderful because it gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery while you take your Netherlands tours.
Amsterdam has to be at the very top of this list. While many know it as a stoner’s paradise, there’s more to this city than simply smoking pot and chilling out. The capital of Holland is known for its artistic heritage, home to famed artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Mondrian among many others.
Netherlands trips simply wouldn’t be the same without a visit to Rotterdam. It contains the perfect mix of history and culture in one bubbling hotpot of activity. In this big city, you can spend your days admiring the ancient architecture and walking quaint streets.
If you’re looking for something a little more lively, then the Hague might be for you. It contains a vibrant nightlife and a much more modern feel than the rest of the country.
Popular Tours in the Netherlands
Taking tours of Holland is by far the best way to explore the country. While going on the adventure on your own can be fun, you could be missing out on all the best Netherlands’ sights and you wouldn’t even know it.
There is a multitude of Netherlands tour packages that are sure to tickle your fancy and teach you about the wonderful Dutch land.
So which Holland tours should you be booking? For starters, the best tours to Holland have to do with art. Visiting the country without a thorough exploration of the Van Gogh Museum would be absolute sacrilege. Learn about the artist’s tumultuous life and the stories behind his work.
While staying in Amsterdam, taking a day trip to Bruges comes highly recommended. On this journey, you’ll get the chance to discover some of Belgium’s most romantic streets and quaint alleyways.
The canals are also worth exploring on any one of your trips to Holland. Taking a private boat tour in Amsterdam allows you to see the city from a slightly different perspective. You’ll learn the history of the buildings that rise up on either side of the canal and about the locals that live in this wonderful city.
Keukenhof, also known as the garden of Europe is the best place to view the Netherlands’ most famous symbol – the tulip. It’s a spectacular flower show that you cannot miss on your Holland vacation.
No matter which tours you decide to take, be sure to go on at least one Amsterdam day trip during your travels. This will ensure you see at least some of the most spectacular sights that this country has to offer.
FAQs
If you’re planning a trip to Holland in the near future, you’re sure to have a few questions about what to expect from this wonderful European country. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the Netherlands.
What is Netherlands Famous For?
While the Netherlands is famous for many things, this small country is best known for its tulips, windmills, canals, and wooden shoes – clogs. It’s also noted for the many world-renowned artists it has produced.
What Food is Netherlands Famous For?
Dutch New Herring is the most famous of the Dutch dishes, but the Netherlands has a whole range to its cuisine. Be sure to try poffertjes, stroopwafel, kroket, and patat.
What Should I Buy in the Netherlands?
If you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you, then custom clogs are a must buy. If you’re looking for a snack to enjoy back home then Puccini chocolate bonbons and Dutch liquorice are both delicious.
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- Gorgeous, extensive garden
- Free time included
- Easy transport
- Food and drinks aren’t included
- The open times are a small window
- Not fully wheelchair friendly
- Exclusive cruise on the canals
- Get to see all the major Amsterdam sights
- Make your own way to the pick-up point
- Minimal numbers may apply
- Scenic views of Amsterdam at night
- Boat cruise through the iconic canals of the city
- Great guided tours of the area
- Most tours are not wheelchair accessible
- Can be quite chilly at night at certain times of the year
- Limited spacing in certain canal cruises
- Skip the long lines with instant entry to the museum
- Book the time slot of your choice in advance
- During peak seasons you might encounter a line at the entrance
- See all the sites and monuments in one day
- Explore the canals on a free canal cruise
- Learn about historical monuments from your local guide
- Meals and drinks not included
- Transfer time is between 3-4 hours to destination
- Requires a fair level of fitness