Oct 27, 2025 at 12:41 PM
Must-See Attractions and Travel Tips for Visiting the Netherlands
Few countries manage to blend art, history, and natural beauty as effortlessly as the Netherlands. Though modest in size, this charming destination unfolds like a living canvas — where colorful tulip fields meet centuries-old canals, and windmills turn gracefully against dramatic northern skies. Whether you arrive through Amsterdam Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague, or Eindhoven Airport, your Dutch adventure begins the moment you step outside. Each route promises a new scene — a glimpse of charming towns, open fields, and the inviting rhythm of everyday Dutch life. For a seamless start to your journey, you can book a comfortable taxi Amsterdam airport and reach the city in comfort and style.
From world-famous museums to peaceful countryside villages, the Netherlands is a country that rewards curiosity. Here, cycling isn’t just transportation — it’s a way of life; art isn’t confined to galleries — it spills out onto streets and bridges; and even the smallest towns are filled with character and charm. It’s a place where every canal reflects a story, and every cobblestone seems to echo history.
This travel guide will take you through the most beautiful and inspiring Netherlands attractions — from the masterpieces of Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and the breathtaking tulip fields of Keukenhof Gardens to the peaceful windmills of Kinderdijk and the wild landscapes of De Hoge Veluwe National Park. Along the way, you’ll find practical insights, travel tips, and suggestions to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another taste of Dutch magic, the Netherlands offers something unforgettable in every season.
Read also: Must-visit places in Amsterdam – tourist guide from Airport Taxis
Top Attractions in the Netherlands
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum stands as one of Europe’s most celebrated museums, a place where art, history, and national identity meet beneath an ornate Gothic-Renaissance façade. Home to more than 8,000 masterpieces, it showcases the brilliance of the Dutch Golden Age — from Rembrandt’s dramatic “The Night Watch” to Vermeer’s delicate “The Milkmaid.” Every room reveals a new chapter of the Netherlands’ artistic soul, and the experience is both inspiring and deeply immersive.
But the Rijksmuseum is more than paintings. Inside, you’ll find intricately carved sculptures, maritime artifacts, Delft Blue ceramics, and antique furniture that bring centuries of Dutch creativity to life. The museum’s library is one of the oldest art history archives in the world, and its peaceful garden is a quiet oasis in the middle of Amsterdam’s bustle. To avoid crowds, plan an early morning or late afternoon visit, and consider combining your trip with a stroll along the Museumplein — where you can also find the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum.
Reaching the Rijksmuseum is easy — it’s only a 20-minute ride from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, making it a perfect first stop after landing in the Netherlands. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual traveler, the museum captures the essence of Dutch culture in a way no other place can.
Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse
Every spring, the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse transform into a sea of color, earning the nickname “The Garden of Europe.” Covering more than 32 hectares, it’s home to over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths that burst into bloom from March to May. Walking through Keukenhof feels like stepping into a living painting — rows of vivid flowers in every imaginable hue stretch to the horizon, creating a spectacle that embodies the spirit of Dutch spring.
Aside from its floral displays, Keukenhof features elegant sculptures, themed gardens, and tranquil ponds that invite visitors to linger and unwind. Many travelers pair their visit with a cycling route through the surrounding tulip fields — a quintessentially Dutch experience. The park is just 40 minutes from Amsterdam and easily accessible by train or car, with convenient connections from Schiphol Airport. It’s the perfect day trip for anyone eager to witness the Netherlands at its most colorful and fragrant.
Anne Frank House, Amsterdam
Few places in the Netherlands evoke emotion as powerfully as the Anne Frank House. Located on the Prinsengracht canal, this humble building preserves the story of Anne Frank — a Jewish teenager who hid from the Nazis during World War II and whose diary became one of the most poignant records of human resilience. Walking through the narrow rooms of the Secret Annex, you can still feel the weight of history, the silence, and the courage that defined those years.
The museum features photographs, original documents, and personal belongings that shed light on Anne’s life and the broader tragedy of the Holocaust. It’s both a memorial and a message — a reminder of compassion, strength, and the importance of tolerance. Tickets must be booked in advance, as entry slots fill quickly, especially during peak season. The experience is deeply moving and essential for anyone seeking to understand the emotional layers of Dutch history.
Zaanse Schans, Zaandam
Just a short drive from Amsterdam lies Zaanse Schans — a village that feels like stepping back into the 18th century. Here, rows of perfectly preserved windmills turn gently above green meadows and quiet canals. Wooden houses painted in traditional Dutch colors line the waterfront, while craftsmen demonstrate the making of clogs, cheese, and chocolate using centuries-old techniques. It’s an open-air museum that celebrates the Netherlands’ rural roots and inventive spirit.
Visitors can explore working windmills, each with a unique function — from grinding spices to sawing wood — and tour small museums that bring local history to life. Stroll along the wooden bridges, taste fresh stroopwafels, and capture postcard-worthy views of the windmills against the sky. Zaanse Schans is easily reachable by train or car from Amsterdam, making it a perfect half-day excursion for those wanting to experience the Dutch countryside without venturing too far from the capital.
Kinderdijk Windmills, Kinderdijk
For a truly iconic view of the Netherlands, head to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where 19 historic windmills stand proudly along scenic canals. Built in the 18th century to manage flooding, these windmills are more than picturesque landmarks — they’re a testament to Dutch ingenuity and resilience in living with water. The landscape, especially at sunrise or sunset, offers breathtaking photo opportunities that capture the country’s timeless beauty.
Visitors can explore the mills up close, join guided boat tours along the waterways, or rent a bicycle to ride the scenic paths that wind through the area. Kinderdijk is located about 90 minutes from Amsterdam or 30 minutes from Rotterdam, and it’s one of the best day trips for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat into nature and heritage combined. It’s not only an emblem of the Netherlands’ engineering mastery but also a place that embodies serenity and simplicity.
De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Otterlo
In the heart of the Netherlands lies De Hoge Veluwe National Park, one of the country’s largest and most diverse natural reserves. Stretching across forests, sand dunes, and heathlands, the park offers a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore its trails on one of the free white bicycles available to visitors, hike through quiet pine woods, or simply relax amid the open landscapes that change with every season.
Within the park stands the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to one of Europe’s most impressive art collections, including nearly 90 works by Vincent van Gogh. The museum also features an expansive sculpture garden, where modern art meets nature in perfect harmony. Wildlife lovers might spot red deer, wild boar, and a variety of birds roaming freely in their natural habitats. Whether you visit for art, nature, or peace of mind, De Hoge Veluwe offers all three in a single breathtaking destination.
Together, these attractions showcase the very best of the Netherlands — its artistry, heritage, and harmony with nature. From tulip gardens to medieval windmills, every stop reveals a piece of the country’s unique identity and its quiet, enduring beauty.
Read also: Discover Bocholt: Top attractions & convenient travel options (including Bocholt to Amsterdam)
Planning Your Trip to the Netherlands
How Many Days Do You Need in the Netherlands?
When planning your trip to the Netherlands, one of the first questions to ask yourself is how much time you’ll need to experience the country’s highlights. The Netherlands may be small, but it’s incredibly rich in culture, history, and natural beauty — and rushing through it would mean missing much of its charm.
For a first-time visit, five to six days is the ideal duration to explore the country’s key destinations at a comfortable pace. This allows you to enjoy Amsterdam’s world-class museums, take a day trip to the flower fields of Keukenhof or the windmills of Zaanse Schans, and spend an evening strolling along picturesque canals in Utrecht or Leiden.
If you can extend your stay to a week or more, you’ll have the opportunity to discover more of the country’s diversity. A seven-day itinerary could include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague — a mix of art, modern architecture, and coastal charm. With ten days, you could expand even further, venturing to charming towns like Delft or Haarlem, or exploring the northern provinces of Friesland and Groningen for a glimpse of authentic Dutch countryside life.
The Netherlands is wonderfully compact and connected by an efficient transport network, making travel between cities fast and simple. Whether you land at Amsterdam Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague, or Eindhoven Airport, you can reach nearly any city in just a couple of hours. For travelers who value comfort and flexibility, Airporttaxis Netherlands provides easy and reliable transfers between airports and major destinations — a stress-free way to start or end your journey. Those arriving in the south or planning to explore Rotterdam’s modern architecture can also book a comfortable taxi Rotterdam airport to reach the city center or nearby attractions like Kinderdijk quickly and conveniently.
Example Itineraries
To help plan your ideal trip, here are a few sample itineraries depending on your travel length and interests:
- 5-Day Itinerary: Explore Amsterdam’s museums and canals (Days 1–2), visit Zaanse Schans and Volendam (Day 3), admire the tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens (Day 4), and finish with a day trip to Utrecht or Haarlem (Day 5).
- 7-Day Itinerary: Combine Amsterdam with day trips to Delft, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Enjoy modern art, historic landmarks, and a taste of coastal life.
- 10-Day Itinerary: Add more time for southern and northern gems like Maastricht, Giethoorn, and Groningen — perfect for travelers who want a balance of city life and countryside serenity.
Every region in the Netherlands has its own rhythm and personality. While the west is famous for its canals and commerce, the east offers vast nature parks, and the south — in provinces like Limburg and Brabant — is known for its hospitality and culinary delights. Whether you plan a quick getaway or an extended exploration, you’ll find that each part of the country offers a new perspective on Dutch life.
Main Airports and Travel Distances in the Netherlands
| Airport | Nearest City | Distance to City Center | Approx. Travel Time by Car | Popular Routes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) | Amsterdam | 17 km | 20–25 minutes | Amsterdam → Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans, Utrecht |
| Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) | Rotterdam | 8 km | 15–20 minutes | Rotterdam → The Hague, Delft, Kinderdijk |
| Eindhoven Airport (EIN) | Eindhoven | 9 km | 15 minutes | Eindhoven → Tilburg, Den Bosch, Maastricht |
| Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ) | Groningen | 15 km | 20 minutes | Groningen → Leeuwarden, Assen |
| Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) | Maastricht | 13 km | 15–20 minutes | Maastricht → Liège, Valkenburg, Aachen (Germany) |
*Travel times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions. Private transfers are available from all airports for a comfortable and direct journey.
Most Romantic Things to Do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam isn’t just about history and art — it’s also one of the most romantic cities in Europe. With its glistening canals, charming bridges, and intimate cafés, the city creates the perfect atmosphere for couples. Start your day with a peaceful stroll through the Jordaan district, where narrow streets are lined with flower-filled balconies and cozy boutiques. Stop for coffee by the canal and watch boats drift past as locals cycle to work.
In the evening, take a canal cruise as the city lights reflect off the water — an unforgettable experience that shows Amsterdam from its most magical side. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a waterside restaurant or an elegant rooftop with views of the city skyline. For something truly special, visit the Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s floating flower market, to buy tulips or souvenirs that capture the city’s timeless romance.
Culture lovers can explore the city’s art museums hand in hand — the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum both offer intimate glimpses into creativity and emotion. Alternatively, rent bicycles and ride together through Vondelpark, one of Amsterdam’s green jewels. Every corner of the city has a story, and sharing these moments makes the experience even more meaningful.
If you’re arriving or departing via Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, booking a private transfer with Airporttaxis is a comfortable way to move between your hotel and the city. It lets you travel at your own pace, avoid the crowds, and start your romantic escape in true comfort.
Read also: Plan Your Perfect Trip to the Netherlands – Travel Tips and Airport Taxis Made Easy
Netherlands Travel Tips
Before setting off to explore the Netherlands — whether it’s your first trip or your fifth — there are a few things that can make your journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. From navigating the canals of Amsterdam to cycling through the countryside, the Dutch way of travel is all about comfort, respect for local traditions, and a touch of spontaneity.
Safety and Awareness
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s safest destinations, with friendly locals and well-organized infrastructure. However, in busy areas such as central Amsterdam or near train stations, it’s wise to stay aware of pickpockets. Keep your valuables close and use crossbody bags when exploring crowded markets or public transport.
At night, city centers remain lively but generally safe. Trams and buses run late, and taxis are reliable. If you prefer comfort and privacy, booking a professional transfer — for example, through Airporttaxis Netherlands — is a convenient option that ensures safe travel from door to door, even after dark.
Getting Around and Cycling Etiquette
Cycling is a national passion in the Netherlands, and it’s also the most authentic way to explore. You’ll find bike lanes almost everywhere, often separated from car traffic, and rental shops are available in every city. Just remember — cyclists always have priority, so stay alert when crossing roads or stepping off trams. If you’re renting a bike, keep to the right, use hand signals when turning, and avoid blocking lanes for locals rushing to work.
Public transportation is efficient, punctual, and easy to navigate. Trains connect all major cities within hours, and local trams or buses fill in the gaps. For travelers carrying luggage or arriving on late-night flights, airport transfers can save time and effort, particularly from Amsterdam Schiphol or Rotterdam The Hague Airport.
Language and Communication
The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch, but nearly everyone speaks excellent English, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. That said, learning a few basic phrases like “Hallo” (Hello), “Dank je wel” (Thank you), and “Alsjeblieft” (Please) can go a long way — locals appreciate the effort, and it adds a personal touch to your conversations.
Money, Tipping, and Payment
The Netherlands uses the euro (€), and most places accept credit or debit cards, though it’s still useful to carry some cash for smaller cafés, local markets, or parking machines. Tipping isn’t mandatory — service charges are usually included — but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is always appreciated. ATMs are widely available, and contactless payments make transactions quick and simple.
Weather and What to Pack
The Dutch weather can be unpredictable — sunny mornings often give way to breezy afternoons or sudden rain showers. Bring layers and always keep a compact raincoat or umbrella handy. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore cobblestone streets or national parks. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor adventures, while autumn and winter bring cozy indoor charm and festive Christmas markets.
Museum Card and Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re an art lover or history enthusiast, consider purchasing the Museumkaart (Museum Card). For around €60, it grants access to over 400 museums across the Netherlands, including major attractions like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Mauritshuis in The Hague. It’s an excellent value for those planning multiple cultural visits.
For travelers on a budget, the Dutch train network is your best friend — fast, clean, and affordable. You can also download apps like NS or 9292 for real-time schedules and connections. Tap water in the Netherlands is perfectly safe to drink, so carrying a reusable bottle will save money and help the environment.
Eco-Friendly Travel Mindset
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s greenest nations, both literally and environmentally. Locals take sustainability seriously — from recycling to reducing waste and favoring eco-transportation. Respect this culture by minimizing single-use plastics, using refillable bottles, and choosing trains or bikes instead of cars whenever possible. Every small choice helps preserve the country’s beautiful landscapes and clean cities.
Plan Your Trip with Airporttaxis Netherlands
Exploring the Netherlands is all about freedom, comfort, and discovery. Whether you’re landing at Amsterdam Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague, or Eindhoven Airport, Airporttaxis Netherlands makes your journey seamless from the moment you arrive. Enjoy professional drivers, fixed fares, and easy transfers to any destination — from the windmills of Kinderdijk to the beaches of The Hague or the canals of Amsterdam.
With so much to see and experience, the Netherlands promises something unforgettable for every traveler. From vibrant cityscapes to tranquil countryside escapes, let your next Dutch adventure begin smoothly — with comfort, curiosity, and the open road ahead.