10 Best Things to Do in the Netherlands

The Anne Frank House is one of the most important and thought-provoking sites in the Netherlands. Although small, this house contains a great deal of history. For those who have read Anne Frank’s diary and those who haven’t, this is a sobering, but significant place to visit.

Open as a museum since 1960, it stands in testament to the fear and courage experienced in the occupied Netherlands. The secret annex, concealed behind a bookcase, Anne’s writings and the possessions of those who hid here tell a vivid story of the people who lived there. Note that because of the dedication to authenticity, the site has many stairs and the annex includes several small, enclosed spaces.

A 17th Century monument in the centre of The Hague, the Mauritshuis museum houses an extensive collection of artworks from the same era. The iconic Girl with a Pearl Earring tops the billing, but this elegant museum is filled to the brim with the work of Dutch masters, including Rembrandt and Reubens. The period of art collected here is known as the Dutch Golden Age, and as you explore the Mauritshuis, it’s clear to see why.

Don’t forget to pick up a print or a souvenir from the shop on your way out, to remember your visit.

Between Rotterdam and the Hague lies the home of Dutch pottery: Delft. A beautiful city, full of fascinating museums and stunning architecture, Delft is worth a visit. Head to the Royal Delft Museum to learn about the history of pottery in Delft, dating back to the 17th century. Be sure to pick up some authentic Delft tableware of your own in the shop to commemorate your visit.

When you’ve had your fill of pottery, wander around the city and take in the sights. There are many more museums to see, while the Oostpoort with its elegant towers makes for a great photo op. When you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat beneath the beautiful trees of Beestenmarkt.

From March to May, the Keukenhof Garden is a breath-taking sight of colour and beauty. Tulips in every colour of the rainbow swirl across the elegantly landscaped grounds. With over 7 million bulbs planted each year, there are flowers as far as the eye can see.

Get a guided tour of the grounds to hear about the history of this gorgeous landmark and discover the many sculptures and artworks scattered over the lands, or you can hire your own electric vehicle and take a GPS audio guide to see Keukenhof at your own pace. You have to book a time slot in advance, and they fill up quickly, so be sure to schedule your trip in ahead of time.

F1 fans are sure to love Zandvoort and its 4.3-kilometre track, the shortest track in the F1 circuit. It’s often open to the public for events, many of which are free. For virtual racing, check out Racesquare, located above the pit boxes. Mickey’s bar provides refreshments and there’s a souvenir shop to grab a memento.

When you’re done with racing, head for the beach. On the sand, sunbathing, ice creams and sandcastles are the order of the day, while shops and cafes line the seafront. Keep an eye on the signs, as the southern beach is a naturist spot. There’s also plenty to do in the rest of the town, so why not take a wander?

Nieuwe Spiegelstraat is the place to go when you’re feeling the need for shopping. Known for its antique stores, it’s easy to spend an afternoon or an entire day, rummaging through shelves and clothes racks to find that thing you didn’t know you were looking for. Ceramics, clothing, art, books and furniture, there’s everything you could want. It’s a veritable hoard of undiscovered treasures.

This street has history. Some shops have been in business for generations and, when you step outdoors, the beautiful old buildings make the perfect spot for a photo op. In amongst the antiques are several galleries for the art lovers and several cafes and eateries providing delicious meals. Take your time and enjoy.

History is evident in Maastricts’s beautiful bridges, medieval buildings and cobbled streets that are perfect for strolling down. There has been a settlement at Maastricht since the Roman Empire. If you’re interested in learning, historical tours of the town are available, or you can uncover its secrets by exploring the caves beneath the city for a thrilling look into Maastricht’s past.

Maastricht isn’t stuck in the past, however. Head to the Vrijthof to discover its beating heart. Excellent restaurants and frequent events, as well as plenty of local and well-known shops, lively restaurants and bars, mean Maastricht has a vibrant social scene. In the winter, the Christmas decorations light up the city like a fairytale.

In the Van Gogh Museum, you’ll learn more about the life and works of one of the most famous artists in the world. In the permanent exhibition, you can view the original artworks in person, including the remarkable Sunflowers, as well as Vincent Van Gogh’s letters and drawings. Gain a new understanding of the artist and his art by exploring his past in his own words.

There are frequent activities for children at the museum as well, including treasure hunts and painting workshops. If you’re travelling as a family, be sure to check the website to see what’s happening. Don’t leave without picking up a handmade crochet Van Gogh doll or other souvenirs.

The grandeur of the Centraal Station in Amsterdam might lead you to think it was a palace or a state building, but it was purpose-built in the 1880s. It has served as a transport hub for the city since its opening in 1889. Close to the Royal Palace, the Anne Frank House and several other sites of interest in the city, it’s perfectly located to get you close to the action.

It makes for an excellent welcome to the city, abuzz with activity and full of shops and cafes. There’s even a bicycle rental so you can travel through Amsterdam in true local fashion.

Known as Wadlopen by the Netherlanders, mudflat walking is a local favourite and could be perfect for the more adventurous traveller. Hikes across the mudflats of Friesland and Groningen are only available at low tides, allowing you to explore the sea floor as you’ve never seen it before. This UNESCO World Heritage site has a unique atmosphere to it that feels like stepping into another world.

Hiking tours are the best way to see the wildlife and avoid the tides, which can be dangerous for the unwary. As it sounds, mudflat walking isn’t the cleanest activity, so be sure to wear appropriate clothes. Check the tour you want to go on for specific needs.