Explore Netherlands

Explore Netherlandshttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/europe/netherlandsExplore Netherlandshttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/europe/netherlands/dutch-cities-worth-visiting-beyond-amsterdamThe Netherlands is so much more than its most famous city. You won’t regret staying an extra few days to discover the culture and charm that exists beyond the Dutch capital.2021-03-29T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/europe/netherlands/dutch-cities-worth-visiting-beyond-amsterdamhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Most <a href="/explore/europe/netherlands/10-things-to-know-before-going-to-the-netherlands">Netherlands</a> itineraries begin and end in Amsterdam, including mine the first time I visited. But, when I moved here four years ago, I quickly discovered that, for such a small country, there’s a ton of beauty, history, and diversity to explore outside of the capital. Much of this is found in the country’s lesser-known cities which rival Amsterdam as worthwhile destinations.</p> <p>Of the Dutch cities I’ve visited so far, here are a few that have stood out as my favorites.</p> <ul> <ul> <li><a href="#utrecht"> Utrecht</a></li> <li><a href="#haarlem">Haarlem</a></li> <li><a href="#den-bosch">‘s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch)</a></li> <li><a href="#eindhoven">Eindhoven </a></li> <li><a href="#rotterdam">Rotterdam </a></li> <li><a href="#maastricht">Maastricht </a></li> </ul> </ul> <h2 id="utrecht">1. Utrecht</h2> <p>I’ve often said if I had to live anywhere in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam, it would be Utrecht. In the middle of the country and only a 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam, Utrecht has many charmingly Dutch characteristics – canals, wonky houses, cobblestone alleyways.</p> <p>I especially like the laidback vibe and slower pace in Utrecht. It’s what I imagine Amsterdam was like before it was overrun by tourists. That being said, it’s a university town and is growing in popularity, so it’s not always going to be immune to crowds – especially in summer. But even on a busy day, it’s significantly less crowded than Amsterdam.</p> <p>I love the wharf cellars – a unique feature of the city’s canals. During the warmer months (April- September) these cellars are transformed into canal-side bars and restaurants. It’s also a great place to explore from the water, and <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/kayaking-or-rafting">kayaking</a> is very popular in Utrecht. I spotted just as many kayaks as boats, along with the odd paddle boarder.</p> <h2 id="haarlem">2. Haarlem</h2> <p>Haarlem has become my new favorite city. Similar to Utrecht in that it gives off Amsterdam vibes with fewer crowds, Haarlem is geared towards locals as opposed to tourists, despite being a short 15-minute train ride west of Amsterdam.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/netherlands/dutch-cities-haarlem.jpg" alt="The iconic Adriaan Windmill on the riverfront in Haarlem, the Netherlands." /> <figcaption>Adriaan Windmill, on the Haarlem riverfront. Image credit: Getty Images / B'Rod</figcaption></figure> <p>It’s an easy city to explore on foot and I enjoyed wandering along the small streets near the Grote Markt (the main square), which are filled with shops and cafes. Once you’ve explored the center, head to the Spaarne – the partially canalized river – to catch a glimpse of the iconic Adriaan Windmill, or visit the Frans Hals Museum which honors the work of the Golden Age painter and Haarlem resident.</p> <p>My favorite way to experience Haarlem is by boat (weather permitting). If you’ve got limited time, stick to the historic canals in town, but if time’s not an issue, head to Molenplas (my summer swimming spot) for a dip. On the way back, there are plenty of places in the center where you can moor your boat and order food.</p> <h2 id="den-bosch">3. ‘s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch)</h2> <p>Of all the cities on this list, I think ‘s-Hertogenbosch (aka Den Bosch) is the most underrated. An hour train ride from Amsterdam, Den Bosch is the capital of North Brabant province and one of the Netherland’s oldest cities. I was surprised by just how well it’s retained its medieval character, and remnants of the past are everywhere in historic buildings, restored statues, and fortified city walls.</p> <p>Like most Dutch cities, it’s easy to navigate on foot; however, Den Bosch is home to the Binnendieze, unique canal tunnels that run underneath the city. The weather wasn’t great the day I visited (welcome to the Netherlands), but I was still able to get a glimpse of these hidden canals while strolling along Uilenburg and Molenstraat – streets close to the city center.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/netherlands/carnival-holland.jpg" alt="Costumed revelers at a Carnival parade in the Netherlands." /> <figcaption>A Carnival parade in the Netherlands. Image credit: Getty Images / thehague</figcaption></figure> <p>My best memories of Den Bosch are from Carnival, when the city completely transforms into a giant street party. Held before the start of Lent (usually Febuary) and celebrated mostly in the southern part of the Netherlands, this is a week-long celebration where all ages dress up and join the festivities. Bar patrons spill out onto the streets while DJs spin beats in the main squares. The event is absolute madness – and my favorite Dutch celebration (sorry, King’s Day).</p> <h2 id="eindhoven">4. Eindhoven</h2> <p>At first, the only thing that attracted me to Eindhoven was its airport – a hotspot for budget flights. But after exploring the city a bit more, I grew to love its innovative and creative personality. In the south of the country (80 minutes from Amsterdam by train), it’s known as the design capital of the Netherlands, but Eindhoven isn’t your typical Dutch city. As much as I love canals and charm, Eindhoven’s unique architecture and graffiti culture makes a refreshing change. If you find yourself here in November, check out GLOW, a light art festival that illuminates the city each year. For street art lovers, the Berenkuil, an open-air museum and the largest legal graffiti spot in the country, is a standout. There’s always a new and impressive mural being added to the collection.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/netherlands/dutch-cities-glow-festival.jpg" alt="Spectators at the GLOW light-art festival in Eindhoven, the Netherlands." /> <figcaption>Spectators at the GLOW light-art festival in Eindhoven. Image credit: Getty Images / Frans Lemmens</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="rotterdam">5. Rotterdam</h2> <p>Located in South Holland and a 35-minute train trip from Amsterdam, Rotterdam surprised me. Having done limited research before my visit, I was expecting to see traits of Amsterdam but Rotterdam is so unique, <span>with modernist buildings and skyscrapers,</span> that it almost doesn’t feel like the Netherlands at all. I later learned this was because the city was completely destroyed in WWII – after which it was rebuilt from scratch.</p> <p>A perfect example of Rotterdam pushing design limits is the Cube Houses, a collection of yellow, tilted boxes that sit atop hexagonal columns. I was surprised to learn most are residential buildings, and not just a tourist spectacle. While all my trips to Rotterdam have been day trips, if I were to ever spend the night, I’ve got my eye on StayOkay hostel, which is located inside the cubes.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/netherlands/dutch-cities-cube-houses.jpg" alt="Futuristic yellow cube houses in Rotterdam, the Netherlands." /> <figcaption>Rotterdam's famous cube houses. Image credit: Getty Images / Jarretera</figcaption></figure> <p>Other attractions include Markthal, a horseshoe-shaped building with an impressive food hall. Make sure to look up – the decorated ceiling is stunning. Even Rotterdam’s central station is dramatic. I’ll admit I was one of those tourists taking pics of the sculpture in the foyer of the station. And, of course, I can’t not mention Erasmus bridge – the backdrop of many iconic Rotterdam snaps.</p> <h2 id="maastricht">6. Maastricht</h2> <p>The most southern city in The Netherlands, Maastricht is nestled between the <a href="/explore/europe/belgium/language-difficulties-belgium">Belgian</a> and German borders. A 2.5-hour train ride from Amsterdam, it’s great way to enjoy views of the Dutch countryside, which is littered with windmills and farm animals.</p> <p>For me, the biggest draw of Maastricht is simply strolling its historic streets. I took a self-guided walking tour, starting on the west bank at Vrijthof, one of the city’s main squares. My aim was to hit as many of the “must-see” attractions as I could, including the Basilica of St. Servatius; Sint-Janskerk; and The Dominicanen, a bookstore housed in an old church. While warming up at a terrace cafe, I got chatting with a friendly local who suggested I should cross the St Servatius Bridge (Sint Servaasbrug) and head over to Wyck. I’m glad I listened. Wyck gives off a trendy neighborhood vibe and is filled with lively boutiques, restaurants, and bars.</p> <p>While it’s absolutely stunning year-round, I preferred Maastricht during winter with a <em>glühwein</em> in my hand. The city is home to the largest – and in my opinion best – Christmas market in the Netherlands, which starts in late November and runs until New Year’s Eve. The atmosphere – think festive decorations, ice rinks, and Christmas cheer – makes braving the chilly temperatures worth it.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/explore/netherlands/dutch-cities-maastricht-christmas-market.jpg" alt="Ice skaters at the Christmas Market in Maastricht, the Netherlands." /> <figcaption>Ice skaters at the Maastricht Christmas market. Image credit: Getty Images / Milou Weerts / EyeEm</figcaption></figure>Getty Images / Ela2007 0671183988 iStock

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/europe/netherlands/10-things-to-know-before-going-to-the-netherlandsStereotypes aside, the Netherlands isn’t all cannabis smoke and red lights. Our local insider, Nicola, lets us in on what to keep in mind when visiting.2022-01-20T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/europe/netherlands/10-things-to-know-before-going-to-the-netherlandshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>When it comes to the Netherlands, many travelers don't think beyond Amsterdam, and many of those visitors don't venture beyond the touristy attractions of the Old Center. But this tiny country has a lot more to offer, as well as some cultural nuances that are helpful to understand.</p> <p>For example, although many foreigners use <span>“</span>Holland<span>”</span> and <span>“</span>the Netherlands<span>”</span> interchangeably, Holland actually refers to just two of the 12 provinces, North and South Holland (which are home to Amsterdam and some of the other best-known cities such as <a href="/explore/europe/netherlands/dutch-cities-worth-visiting-beyond-amsterdam">Utrecht and Rotterdam</a>). The Netherlands refers to the entire country.</p> <p>Before heading off on your trip to the lowlands, here are some other things to keep in mind.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#language">Language barrier in the Netherlands</a></li> <li><a href="#booking">Book tickets and accomodation in advance</a></li> <li><a href="#coffee">Coffee shops in Amsterdam</a></li> <li><a href="#bike">Lock your bike</a></li> <li><a href="#street">Amsterdam's Red Light District</a></li> <li><a href="#photography">Photographing the Red Light District</a></li> <li><a href="#amsterdam">Cities outside of Amsterdam</a></li> <li><a href="#dutch">Dutch directness</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Buy an OV-Chipkaart for public transit</a></li> <li><a href="#lanes">Bike lanes in the Netherlands</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="language">1. English speakers don’t need to worry about a language barrier</h2> <p>The Dutch have won bragging rights to speaking the best English (as a second language) in Europe, knocking the Swedes and Danish off the top spot.</p> <p>Don’t be afraid to ask for directions, recommendations or just have a chat in English. Almost all locals, especially in Amsterdam, speak some English and jump at the chance to practice and show off their skills. </p> <p>In saying that, <a href="/explore/guides/dutch-travel-phrasebook">learning a few key phrases</a> like <em>Dankjewel</em> (thank you) and <em>Goedemorgen</em> (good morning) is never a bad idea and will help you break the ice with locals. </p> <p>Besides, you may already know more than you think, thanks to a surprising amount of Dutch coming directly from English. </p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/europe/volendam.jpg" alt="The Dutch fishing village of Volendam." /> <figcaption> Volendam, a Dutch fishing village. Photo credit: iStock</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="booking">2. Book tickets and accommodations in advance</h2> <p>Booking in advance can save you a headache, especially if you’re traveling to Amsterdam during peak season (between June and August). Hostels inside the city center usually get booked up in advance during summer, and some attractions can see you spending hours in a queue if you don't book online. </p> <p>If you plan on visiting the Anne Frank House, ensure you buy a ticket online prior to making your way there. Keep in mind that there are a limited number of tickets available each day. If you forgo buying online, be prepared to wait hours in a line that usually stretches around the block. </p> <p>When it comes to major museums, your best option is purchasing the <a href="https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/i-am/i-amsterdam-city-card" target="_blank">I Amsterdam City Card</a>. This offers free entrance to most of the city’s cultural delights, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. It also includes unlimited use of public transport for the duration of your card.  </p> <h2 id="coffee">3. Coffee shops in Amsterdam are different from cafes</h2> <p>It’s no secret that cannabis is legal (with some restrictions) in The Netherlands and many tourists flock to Amsterdam just to sample some of the local, uh, delicacies. If you plan to partake, bear in mind that cannabis is actually illegal in the Netherlands unless it is purchased and consumed on-site at a coffee shop. And don't assume that all cities have the same policies as Amsterdam. Some municipalities, especially near the borders with Germany and Belgium, have measures in place that ban non-residents of the Netherlands from purchasing cannabis at their coffee shops. As of mid-May 2023, <a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/02/10/1156070078/amsterdam-red-light-district-marijuana-outdoor-ban" target="_blank">smoking cannabis outdoors in Amsterdam's red light district will be prohibited</a>. It's possible that these measures may soon be implemented nationwide.</p> <p>But, if an innocent cup of caffeine and slice of banana bread is all you’re after, steer clear of the coffee shops – those brownies aren't the type you’re looking for. Instead, search for a cafe to get your hot chocolate fix.  </p> <h2 id="bike">4. Lock your bike… twice</h2> <p>If you’re hiring a bike during your stay – which is one of the best ways to explore the cities – ensure you leave the rental shop with a sturdy lock. </p> <p>Usually bikes will come with a fixed lock that wraps around the wheel, and also a separate lock that you can use to secure the frame to a pole or bike rack – making the bike twice as hard to steal will deter thieves who are looking to make some easy cash. </p> <p>On that note, if you hear “pssst, want to buy a bike?” while wandering the streets, ignore the cheap price they offer <span>–</span> it’s not worth the guilty conscience of knowing you’re getting around on a stolen ride.  </p> <h2 id="street">5. Amsterdam's Red Light District is relatively normal during the day</h2> <p>As soon as the sun sets, red lights tint the area and the streets really come to life. Visit at night to see the district in all its glory. </p> <p>In daytime, it's a lot less lively. <span>Even though the women still tap on their windows during daylight, w</span>ithout the illuminated neon lights and buzzing atmosphere, it’s easier to see that it's a real neighborhood, where regular people also live and work. It's one oldest parts of the city center, with charming canals, historic churches, and typically Dutch buildings (which is why there is a proposal to move the Red Light District out of the center and into a new "erotic center" elsewhere in the city).</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/europe/red-light-district-amsterdam.jpg" alt="Amsterdam's Red Light District during the day." /> <figcaption> The Red Light District during the day. Photo credit:iStock </figcaption></figure> <h2 id="photography">6. Don’t take pictures of the ladies in the Red Light District</h2> <p>Drunken backpackers, consider this your warning. Not only is it incredibly rude to treat the ladies in the windows like zoo animals, but taking photos of their profession will most likely result in your phone going for a swim. </p> <p>Trust us, if any of the girls catch you trying to take a sneaky snap, there’s a good chance they will come out from behind their window, grab your phone and drown it in the nearby canal to teach you a lesson. </p> <h2 id="amsterdam">7. Don’t just plan on visiting Amsterdam</h2> <p>All too often travelers only plan enough time on their Netherlands itinerary to explore Amsterdam. But beyond this deservedly famous city, there are a number of other cities filled to the brim with traditional Dutch charm, many less than an hour's distance from the capital.</p> <p>Step away from touristy 'Dam and and check out Haarlem, Utrecht, Maastricht, or Den Bosch, to name a few. It’s in these lesser-known places that you’ll discover Dutch culture away from the crowds. </p> <h2 id="dutch">8. The Dutch aren’t rude, they’re just direct</h2> <p>The Dutch are known for being extremely direct. Don’t take it personally, it’s in their culture to speak exactly what’s on their mind without biting their tongue. </p> <p>From being brutally honest to extending a simple ‘no’ without explanation, you will always know where you stand with a Dutchie.</p> <h2 id="transport">9. Buy an OV-chipkaart (OV-chip card) for public transit</h2> <p>The <a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en" target="_blank">OV-Chipkaart</a> is the public transport ticket system in the Netherlands, and can be used on all trains, trams, buses and metros. </p> <p>You can buy a single-use card if you plan on only using it once, or an anonymous card if you plan on traveling via public transport more often. Simply check in and out of your journey using the card readers, and top up when necessary. </p> <h2 id="lanes">10. Watch out for the bike lanes</h2> <p>The bike lanes can be unforgiving to visitors who are, more often than not, hazards to cyclists. Keep an eye out for the designated bike lanes (which are painted red and marked with a symbol of a bike), as they can be easily stepped on if you’re not paying attention. </p> <p>If you hear the ding of angry bells, quickly move off the lane – they’d rather hit you than stop. </p> <p>Read up on how to get around and dodge cyclists <a href="/travel-safety/europe/netherlands/transport-in-the-netherlands" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p></p> <p></p>iStock/kruwt 0487452272 iStock A pedestrian shopping street in central Amsterdam.