The first city that comes to mind when people think of the Netherlands or Holland is Amsterdam. While although Amsterdam is a lively city full of culture and history, there is so much more to see and do in this beautiful country! Below you will find a list of some of the amazing things you can do while in the Netherlands, and we hope that you will be able to see, like us, that there is so much more to this country than just Amsterdam.

1) Utrecht

Utrecht is a beautiful canal city Located only 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam. It is super accessible from anywhere in the country, and offers historical buildings, and great shopping and dining. The canals in Utrecht are different than Amsterdam, as they are sunken to the water level, so you can eat dinner on a terrace right at the water’s edge. While in Utrecht, make sure not to miss the views from the top of the Dom Tower, and the chance to take a boat ride through the city.

2) Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a modern, architecturally unique city located on the North Sea with Europe’s largest shipping port. You can take in the views of the stylish Erasmus Bridge and the amazing cityscape from the top of the Euromast tower. There are tons of beautiful old boats located in the Old Harbour, and there is even a water taxi to get you from point A to B. Make sure to check out the Markthal for dozens of delicious food stalls!

3) Zaanse Schans

Also located only 15 minutes from Amsterdam, the Zaanse Schans is a quaint village on the water with historic windmills, a wooden clog museum, a cheese shop, and a cocoa factory! You can pick up some traditional Dutch clogs for yourself, and sample all of the locally made cheeses. Some of the windmills are even still functioning today, and there is a boat that can take you to see the views from a different perspective.

4) The beaches

Believe it or not, the Netherlands has so many great beach areas in the north of the country! You can camp near the beach and observe the shells, sand dunes, and sunsets; take in the views from the boardwalk in Scheveningen, and enjoy a drink at one of the many cafes on the sand. There are many options for both families and couples to enjoy the crisp water of the North Sea.

5) Maastricht

Located at the most southern point of the Netherlands, Maastricht is a city full of culture and charm. On the weekends, tourists from bordering Belgium, Germany, and beyond flock to the city for its beautiful cobblestone streets and frequent food, art, and culture festivals. Enjoy a drink at one of the many cafes, climb to the top of Sint Janskerk, or pack a picnic and enjoy one of the many riverside parks. Be sure to also visit at Christmas time, when the city is full of festivity and the Vrijthof Square becomes transformed into a traditional European Christmas market!

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