Hello, the country we want to introduce to you today is the Netherlands. Start planning your trip to the Netherlands, which is one of the must-see countries.
The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe famous for its low altitude, colorful tulip gardens, windmills, canals and bicycle paths. Officially known as the "Kingdom of the Netherlands", this country is known for its cultural richness, historical cities, modern lifestyle and the value it gives to art. It is known for cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Amsterdam is both the capital and the most popular tourist destination of the country. The Netherlands is also famous for its art, architecture and museums; world-renowned museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are in this country.
How to Get to the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has international airports accessible from many major cities around the world and is well connected by rail and road networks within Europe.
Transportation by Air
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: The most common way to travel to the Netherlands by air is via Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Schiphol hosts direct flights from many parts of the world and is one of the busiest airports in Europe.
Other Airports: Other airports such as Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Eindhoven Airport also serve many flights into and out of the Netherlands.
Transportation by Rail
The Netherlands is perfectly integrated into Europe's rail network. High-speed trains such as Thalys, Eurostar and ICE connect Amsterdam, Rotterdam and other Dutch cities with London, Paris, Brussels, Berlin and many other major European cities.
Transportation by Road
Travelling from Europe by car or bus is also an option. The Netherlands is easily accessible from surrounding countries with well-maintained motorways and roads.
Transportation within the Netherlands
The Netherlands has an efficient and well-organized transportation network, making traveling within the country quite comfortable and efficient.
Trains
The Netherlands' rail network is extensive across the country and is a fast and reliable option for intercity travel. NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) is the main train operator and offers regular services to major cities as well as smaller towns.
Tram and Metro
Especially in large cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague, there are extensive tram and metro networks. These systems make transportation within the city quick and easy.
Buses
Urban and intercity bus lines provide transportation to all parts of the country, including areas not reached by the train network. Buses are a good alternative, especially for traveling to rural areas.
Bicycle
The Netherlands is one of the most bicycle-friendly countries in the world. Bicycles are very popular in Amsterdam, Utrecht and other cities, with extensive bike paths and parking facilities. Bicycle rental options are also plentiful for tourists.
Car Rental
Renting a car is also an option in the Netherlands, but parking in city centres can be limited and expensive. Given the size of the country, trains or bicycles are often more practical and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Places to Visit in Netherlands
With its rich history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, the Netherlands offers visitors a variety of opportunities to explore. Here are some of the important places to visit in the Netherlands:
Amsterdam
Canal Tours: Boat tours along Amsterdam's famous canals offer the opportunity to explore the city from a different perspective.
Van Gogh Museum: Home to the largest collection of works by the famous Dutch painter Van Gogh.
Anne Frank House: The house where Jewish girl Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II now serves as a museum.
Rotterdam
Euromast: An observation tower and restaurant offering panoramic views of Rotterdam.
Markthal: This modern building, which is both a marketplace and a gastronomy center, offers visitors a variety of flavors.
Utrecht
Dom Tower: One of the most iconic structures in the city, this tower offers magnificent views.
Canal Tours: Boat tours of Utrecht's historic canals are a great way to explore the city.
Hague
Madurodam: This theme park displays miniature models of the Netherlands, showing the country's iconic landmarks on a small scale.
Mauritshuis Museum: Home to many famous works of art, including "Little Red Riding Hood".
Keukenhof Gardens
Famous for the millions of tulips that bloom every spring, these gardens are located near Lisse and offer a magnificent visual feast.
Zaanse Schans
Known for its traditional Dutch windmills, wooden houses and craft workshops, this open-air museum is a reflection of Dutch lifestyle and history.
What to Eat in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is also known for its unique and delicious food. Dutch cuisine consists of simple yet delicious dishes, with an emphasis on seafood, cheeses, meat dishes and desserts. Here are some dishes to try in the Netherlands:
Haring
Salted and marinated herring is one of the most famous street foods in the Netherlands, often served with onions and pickles.
Stroopwafel
This dessert, with caramel filling sandwiched between two thin waffles, is one of the most popular snacks in the Netherlands.
Poffertjes
Poffertjes, small, puffy Dutch pancakes, are often served with melted butter and powdered sugar.
Potato Oorlog
This dish, which means "War Potatoes", is Dutch-style French fries topped with mayonnaise, ketchup and onions.
Kaas
The Netherlands is also famous for its cheeses. Don't leave without trying Dutch cheeses such as Edam, Gouda and Leyden.
Erwtensoep
Popular during the winter months, this thick pea soup is prepared with sausage, bacon, and sometimes potatoes.
Bitterballen
These fried meat balls are served as an appetizer in bars and restaurants, usually accompanied by a sauce.
Netherlands Festivals
The Netherlands is known for its colorful and diverse festivals throughout the year. From music to art, flower festivals to national celebrations, the Netherlands offers events to suit all tastes. Here are some of the festivals you should attend in the Netherlands:
King's Day (Koninginnedag)
This national festival, held in April, celebrates the birthday of the King of the Netherlands. Street parties, live music and various events are held throughout the country. Amsterdam is one of the liveliest cities in the festival.
Keukenhof Tulip Festival
Between March and May, the Tulip Festival takes place in Keukenhof, the world's largest flower garden. Millions of tulips offer visitors a visual feast.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Held along the canals of Amsterdam during the winter months, this festival showcases light art works by international artists.
North Sea Jazz Festival
This festival, held in Rotterdam in July, is one of the most prestigious jazz festivals in the world. Many famous jazz artists and music groups perform during the festival.
Pinkpop Festival
Pinkpop, held in Limburg in June, is the longest-running open-air music festival in the Netherlands. It is famous for its performances by artists from a variety of musical genres.
Utrecht Early Music Festival (Oude Muziek Festival Utrecht)
Held in Utrecht between August and September, this festival focuses on old music and hosts artists from all over the world.
Netherlands Nightlife
The Netherlands has a vibrant and diverse nightlife, especially in its larger cities. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht are known for their late-night bars, clubs and concert venues. Here are the highlights of the Netherlands nightlife
Amsterdam Nightlife
Amsterdam is the first city that comes to mind when it comes to Dutch nightlife. Areas like Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are full of bars, nightclubs and live music venues. The famous Red Light District is also one of the nightlife hotspots.
Rotterdam Nightlife
Known for its modern and dynamic structure, Rotterdam attracts attention with its lively nightlife. Witte de Withstraat is known as the most popular nightlife street in the city and is home to various bars, restaurants and art galleries.
Utrecht Nightlife
Utrecht is known for its bars and clubs, especially popular with university students. The venues along the Oudegracht canal provide a pleasant atmosphere.
Festivals and Events
Music festivals and cultural events are an important part of the nightlife in the Netherlands. Open-air concerts and festivals, especially in the summer months, are followed with interest by locals and tourists.
Bars and Clubs
Dutch bars are known for their wide selection of beers and friendly atmospheres, while nightclubs are an essential part of the nightlife, offering a variety of music from electronic music to jazz.
We hope that our Netherlands Travel Guide article has been a useful resource for you. You can check out our Mikos Store Blog page for such articles. Also, if you haven't decided which of the different countries to visit yet, the Switzerland Travel Guide may be a good alternative for you. Enjoy reading.
