This ‘low-lying’ country resides in the vast plain of northwestern Europe. It has an alternate name Holland, which was given to one of the medieval cores that are now part of the modern state and is still in use for 2 out of the 12 provinces of the country. The area is still among the most popular places to see in Netherlands travel.
The country is a parliamentary democracy functioning under a constitutional monarch. Initially habituated by the Germanic tribes- the Frisii, Nervii, and Batavi. The Batavi on the Roman frontier resisted Rome’s rule till the 13th century and later joined them as allies. You can learn about these tribes at many of the Netherlands tourist attractions namely the archaeological museum and national history museum.
Following the war between the United Provinces of the Netherlands and Spain, the country’s independence was recognized in 1648. With the foundation of the Dutch East India Company in 1602, Holland became one of the prime colonials and marine powers of Europe. You can still explore many buildings which centered on the operations of the Dutch East India Company when you visit the Netherlands.
Being the most densely populated country in the world, it has very interesting cities, beautifully preserved nature, and varied landscapes, always fresh by the wind from the sea. The majority of the best places to visit in the Netherlands are located along the coastline of the country.
This is the country where the visitor is astounded by light. No wonder the Dutch gave a number of talented painters to human civilization. Many people just visit Holland to gain inspiration for their art or to study the lives of great artists who lived in the country.
Along the long coast of the North Sea (451 km) at the west and north-west, the climate of the Netherlands is typical of a mild maritime climate, wet and mild, and the winters are rarely strong, the summer is never sweltering. The urban and rural scene of the Netherlands is often famous for cycling, especially on the routes like Dunes of Texel, the Hoge Veluwe, and Zuid-Kennemerland. Many of the Netherlands’ tourist places are also popular for their hike trails.
The engineering marvels like Flevoland- a territory developed out of the sea, and Zeeland’s delta works are acknowledged among the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and attract a fair share of visitors. May it is the beautiful tulip fields, canals, flatlands, clogs, windmills, or tall and progressive Dutch people; any single reason is enough to make you visit Holland.
Cities to Visit in The Netherlands
1. AMSTERDAM
This national capital is where chaos meets serenity. Amsterdam is one of the quirkiest places to visit in Holland with elegant museums, long canals, elite galleries, fabulous pubs, and shopping places.
2. LEIDEN
A picture-perfect place with ethnic windmills, wooden bridges, lush parks, and tree-lined canals; Leiden is a haven for solo travelers and leisure seekers. It is among the best cities to visit in the Netherlands to enjoy canal boat rides and bicycle city tours.
3. THE HAGUE
This is a contemporary city that reflects royalty and class with every inch. Situated by the Northern Sea, the Hague is amongst the most exquisite Netherlands tourist spots with luxurious stores, regal art galleries, and comfy coffee eateries.
4. HAARLEM
Unofficially called ‘Bloemenstad’ or ‘the flower city,’ Haarlem is a tranquil district with a small community to explore during the Netherlands tour. The stunning architecture, peaceful streets, and cozy coffee shops include it in the things to see in the Netherlands.
5. ROTTERDAM
It is among the most important ports in the country and has been deeply associated with the maritime history of the country. This is a city you should visit on the Netherlands vacation if you want to see vintage ships, dockyards, and ports.
6. ZAANSE SCHANS
This town takes you back to pastoral life when you visit Holland. It is known for barns, wooden houses, windmills, and beautiful green pastures. This place makes you feel that you are in an 18th-century European village.
7. UTRECHT
This city is considered by many to be the heart of the Holland region. The city is steeped in medieval history and is said to have been built around the iconic Domtoren bell tower, which is among the most historically significant Netherlands tourist spots.
8. MAASTRICHT
This city, like Utrecht, is known for its medieval roots. More specifically, Maastricht is known among places to go in the Netherlands for well-preserved medieval architecture. It is also a university city and has developed a happening life for young residents.
9. GIETHOORN
This is a car-free village bristle with wooden houses and canals for boats to travel about. It is among the most wonderful things to see in the Netherlands. You almost feel like part of a fantasy land while exploring this quaint town.
10. KINDERDIJK
This village is among the best places to visit in Holland to see 18th-century windmills. These marvels still manage part of the water system of the village. It also has many wonderful museums dedicated to the region.
11. VOLENDAM
This town sits on the banks of Lake Marketmeer and is among the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. The town is popular among tourists for its colorful wooden houses and lake activities. It also has several interesting museums dedicated to costumes, music, art, and so on.
12. DELFT
This town is most associated with Delftware, a style of hand-painted blue and white pottery. This town too has well-established medieval roots being the Seat of Power for the Royal House of Orange. From historical buildings and museums to Delftware workshops, there is no shortage of Netherlands sightseeing spots in this town.
13. EINDHOVEN
This is the hub of technology and design in the country. It is known for being the birthplace of Philips Electronics. It is explored most for modern developments during Netherlands travel.
14. GRONINGEN
This city is most associated with its shipbuilding history. It is a quiet and beautiful city. If you enjoy exploring places to see in the Netherlands on boats or on bicycles then you would love Groningen.
15. ARNHEM
This quaint little city should be considered for some laid-back time when you visit Holland. It is also famous for its fashion district, National Park, and open-air museum. There is enough to keep you engaged, yet relaxed.
16. NIJMEGEN
This is the oldest city in the country and has some of the most ancient Netherlands tourist attractions to explore. It is most known for the city’s fortification and Roman buildings which are well-preserved. This a city you should visit during Netherlands sightseeing to take a trip to the past.
