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Netherlands
- Overview
- The Basics
- Attractions
- Events
- Public Holidays
- Useful Contacts
- Airports
- Climate
- Currency
- Visa & Passport
- Phrases
- Netherlands Map
What to see in Netherlands
Netherlands Attractions
The picturesque country that is the Netherlands is home to a wealth of art, history and culture. While Amsterdam deservedly dominates the tourist trade there are a number of other interesting cities to explore, like Delft and Rotterdam. The Netherlands is also blessed with lovely natural landscapes so it is no wonder why tourists flock here every year.
The Netherlands' sights and attractions are often distinguished by historical names such as Anne Frank or Rembrandt, who are both immortalised in Amsterdam museums. Other highlights of the country for tourists include the Van Gogh Museum and the notorious Red Light District (De Wallen), as well as the ancient city of Groningen.
Visitors can also enjoy a Heineken at a café and mingle with the friendly locals, or cycle leisurely along the beautiful canals. Amsterdam is well known for its tolerant position toward cannabis, which can be smoked in designated 'coffeeshops', but tourists should note that it is not strictly legal, just traditionally tolerated, and that smoking in public places can still get you into trouble with the authorities. As a country the Netherlands has been trying to discourage the tourist drug scene recently and it is not as tolerated as it once was; in fact, most Dutch cities no longer allow foreigners to buy or smoke cannabis, and Amsterdam is becoming the last outpost for 'coffeeshops' frequented by foreigners. As laws and social practices are currently in flux regarding cannabis use it is recommended that travellers check official sources before visiting.
An authentic European destination, travelling in the Netherlands offers great historical sightseeing and artistic attractions, combined with a truly cultural experience. It is a great destination for culture-vultures and pleasure-seekers alike.
Amsterdam Canal Tour
Amsterdam's famous canal tours are an essential experience for visitors to the city, and continue to delight and amaze tourists from all over the world. Amsterdam's UNESCO-listed canals were essential…
Amsterdam Coffeeshops
Amsterdam's coffeeshops are an iconic part of the city, and for many tourists they constitute a unique and essential element to any visit to the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, 'coffeeshop' means a place…
Anne Frank House
This museum is dedicated to the memory of Anne Frank, whose famous diary, recorded over a two-year period, describes the experiences of a Jewish teenager during World War II. Part of the house that…
Heineken Experience
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam, and indeed in the Netherlands, the Heineken Experience is not to be missed. After opening its doors in 2001, the Heineken Experience has been…
Keukenhof
One of the top attractions in the Netherlands, and the best reason to visit in the spring, Keukenhof is one of those magical places that frequently earns itself a spot on lists like 'Places You Have…
National Maritime Museum
Covering four centuries of Dutch naval history, the National Maritime Museum, or Het Scheepvaartmuseum, allows visitors a glimpse into the adventurous seafaring past of Dutch explorers and merchants…
Red Light District (De Wallen)
A visit to Amsterdam would not be complete without a stroll around the notorious Red Light District. The atmosphere can be chaotic, with throngs of tourists jostling for space alongside city slickers,…
Rembrandt House
This museum provides an insight into the life and times of the famous Dutch master. Rembrandt lived here between 1639 and 1658, the pinnacle of his career. The famous artist went bankrupt in 1656 and…
Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art
The Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art closely traces the developments in art of the second half of the 20th century, showcasing the most impressive collection of modern art in Amsterdam. The permanent…
The Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum)
Between May 1940 and May 1945, during World War II, the Netherlands was occupied by Nazi Germany, and this museum documents the everyday effects of this foreign invasion on the Dutch population as…
The Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum was opened in 1885 and is best known for its collection of 17th-century Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. The most notable of these paintings is Rembrandt's…
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is a definitive tourist attraction in Amsterdam. Situated in a modern building, the simple architecture subtly underscores the artists' colourful and extraordinary work. The museum…
Our Travel Expert
Kaleigh is from Denver, Colorado and has a degree in Art History. She is
currently working as an au pair in the Netherlands and uses all her free time
to explore, immersing herself as much as possible in Dutch culture. She is learning
the language and enjoys writing about her experiences sampling local food and
admiring Dutch art and architecture.
>Read Kaleigh's tips on Netherlands
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