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The best cities to visit in the Netherlands (that aren’t Amsterdam)

We all love 'Dam, but there are plenty of other Dutch cities to explore. From Rotterdam to Utrecht, these are some of the best

Photograph: Shutterstock

When I tell people that I’m from the Netherlands , the first thing they mention is Amsterdam . And hey, I get it, Amsterdam rocks. But the city has got pretty overrun with tourists recently, and the government there has even been  trying to convince them to stay away altogether . 

So how about seeing what else is out there? The rest of the Netherlands is beautiful, expansive and full of good food and culture, and it’s just waiting to be explored. From Ameland to Rotterdam, we’ve rounded up all the best cities that should be on your radar this year. Ready to give it a go? Here’s where to visit in the Netherlands. 

RECOMMENDED: 🛤 The best  day trips from Amsterdam 🇪🇺 The most  underrated destinations in Europe 🌆 The best  European city breaks to try this year

Fleurine Tideman is a freelance writer based in Rotterdam and London.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best Dutch cities to visit

1.  rotterdam.

Let me immediately state my bias: I’m a proud resident of Rotterdam . Aside from its thriving art scene, Rotterdam is a foodie’s dream destination, with buzzy food markets like the Markthal and Fenix Food Factory . As a large part of the city was destroyed in WW2, Rotterdam is also home to unique architecture. Many local architects were given free rein when it came to rebuilding the city, which has made Rotterdam the vibrant and unique city it is today, with an aesthetic that seamlessly blends new and old.

2.  Haarlem

If you’re looking to stay close to Amsterdam, Haarlem is your best choice. This quaint city is a 16-minute train ride from the capital, and far cheaper to stay in – many Amsterdam residents end up moving here to commute to the capital, although Haarlem itself has plenty to offer. You can easily spend an afternoon in the Frans Hals Museum learning more about this legendary Dutch painter. Outside of the city, you’ll find endless tulip fields to serve as a backdrop for your holiday photos – just be sure to ask the farmers for permission first!

3.  's-Hertogenbosch

Don’t worry, nobody’s expecting you to be able to pronounce that! Even the Dutch find it too tiresome to say, so we usually shorten it to Den Bosch. The perfect city break for those looking to soak up some history and culture, Den Bosch is known for its great museums, including the Het Noordbrabants Museum and Design Museum Den Bosch , as well as its medieval architecture and fortified city walls. People from across the region flock here for the markets on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Be sure to sample a traditional Bossche bol, which is essentially a huge profiterole covered in chocolate –  lekker !

4.  Maastricht

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the south of the Netherlands. Maastricht, with its Gothic spires and cobbled streets, feels like it was plucked straight from the pages of a fairytale. Bordering Belgium, the city offers a unique blend of Dutch and Belgian culture and architecture. My perfect afternoon? Visit Boekhandel Dominicanen to shop for books in a converted medieval church, then head to Bosch Brewery for a tour and classic beer tasting.

5.  Arnhem

Visiting Arnhem will allow you to combine your city break with a touch of nature, as the city is surrounded by countryside and situated beside the Veluwe, one of the Netherlands’ largest national parks. Look out for w ildlife like deer, foxes and Scottish Highland cattle, which were brought here to maintain the heathland. The city itself is known  for its vibrant art scene: Arnhem’s Museum of Modern Art  is a must-visit, as is the Netherlands Open Air Museum , which showcases traditional Dutch farmhouses and windmills. Get to know the city by wandering its  shopping streets or joining a guided street art tour. 

6.  Utrecht

Instead of visiting Amsterdam, why not head to ‘Little Amsterdam’ instead? With its rows of cute Dutch houses and terraces perched along the canals,  Utrecht feels like a shrunk-down version of Amsterdam without the crowds of tourists.  The best way to explore Utrecht is through a canal boat tour. During my student years there, I loved taking visitors along the canals and introducing them to traditional Dutch pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnauwen . Visit Olivier  for a pint with a twist –  this Belgian beer pub sits within an old church (we do love a church conversion in the Netherlands)!

7.  Ameland

Technically a municipality, Ameland is my favourite of the Dutch Wadden Islands. This tiny stretch of paradise, home to four villages and two nature reserves, feels like it was plucked from the past. Visiting Ameland always makes me feel like I’m the main character in a movie, pensively strolling along sand dunes, marshes and forests. The best part? It couldn’t feel further away from Amsterdam’s overcrowded streets. 

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15 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 28, 2024

With canals galore, beautiful gabled houses, world-class museums and more, Dutch cities are certainly home to some fine sights. Wandering around their cobbled streets or taking a canal boat along the waterways is magical, and there is a welcoming and friendly air about the country in general.

Laidback, but with a sense of fun, exploring all that the bet cities in the Netherlands have to offer will provide you with lasting memories. Before you know it, you may find yourself returning time and time again to the Netherlands .

A laidback place with a pretty center, Breda´s main square has an impressive Gothic cathedral that towers over the cafes and shops down below. Not far from the border, there´s a lively feel to the city, with bustling bars and cheap restaurants mixed between the old buildings.

With some nice nature spots in the surrounding area and the lovely Valkenburg park to stroll around, Breda is a peaceful place to spend some time.

14. Eindhoven

Until recently a tiny village, Eindhoven´s population grew drastically after the electrical firm Philips moved here; now, almost everything in the city revolves around the company – even the main train station was moved to better accommodate their needs!

Although there is not much to see, a lot of research in the technological and industrial fields goes on here and it is the capital of design for the Netherlands. If you´re not working here, there are few reasons to visit, with most people simply overnighting in Eindhoven before getting an early flight.

13. Alkmaar

Although it is a pleasant place, one thing and one thing only attracts tourists to the city – its famous cheese market. Every Friday morning between April and September, an elaborate ceremony takes place whereby buyers smell, taste and feel the texture of cheese before haggling over a price.

Once the transaction has been concluded, the impressive looking cheeses are carried away by porters from the guild to be weighed. Entertaining and bizarre, get here early for a good view.

Formerly a wealthy resort, Arnhem´s city center is a slightly drab place despite being rebuilt after the Second World War. Due to the number of troops who died here, many British people still visit Arnhem for its battle sites.

There are lots of interesting attractions surrounding the city, such as Burger´s Zoo and the airborne museum. An important fashion city in the Netherlands, there are some top notch restaurants and bars scattered throughout the city.

11. Den Bosch

The capital of North Brabant, Den Bosch´s streets and markets teem with life every Wednesday and Saturday, as traders descend upon the town to sell their wares. Its two main highlights are undoubtedly the awe-inspiring cathedral and the museum dedicated to the artist Hieronymous Bosch, who once resided here in the 15th Century. With a lovely canal system, beautiful townhouses, and cute old bridges, Den Bosch is well worth exploring.

10. Nijmegen

Lying on the banks of the River Waal, Nijmegen may be one of the oldest towns in the country, although many of its old buildings were unfortunately destroyed in the Second World War. Many of them were reconstructed, however, and some nice buildings still dot the center.

With the large student population breathing life into this ancient place, one of the best things to do here is to walk along the lovely riverside promenade and watch the world go by.

A picturesque place that is quintessentially Dutch in appearance, Haarlem lies just fifteen minutes from Amsterdam by train and is definitely worth a visit. With its lovely old buildings, twisting canals and cobbled streets, Haarlem is certainly charming, and there are many great artworks on display in its galleries and museums. At the center of the flower-growing region, when in bloom, Haarlem is a great base from which to visit the colorful fields .

Due to its proximity to Amsterdam, Leiden is a great day trip option , as it has a host of things to see and do. The historic center of the city is a joy to explore. Its plethora of canals, 17th Century buildings and narrow alleys give Leiden a charming feel to it, and there are lots of great museums to visit.

With the oldest university in the country and a huge student population, there is a youthful ambiance to its old streets. There are also innumerable bars and cafes worth checking out. The birthplace of the famous Rembrandt, from Leiden, you can easily visit the nearby colorful tulip fields.

7. Groningen

Located in a rural and quiet part in the north of the country, venturing into Groningen´s city center can be quite a shock – it is a trendy, lively place brimming with energy and is completely pedestrianized.

An eclectic range of architectural styles can be found in the center, due to the rapid rebuilding of the city after it was almost completely destroyed in the Second World War. With a large student body, there is a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as cheap restaurants and a lot of good bars to choose from.

6. Maastricht

Lying on the banks of the Meuse River, Maastricht´s proximity to Belgium and Germany makes it a popular destination for citizens of both nations, as well as the Dutch themselves. A vibrant place, its streets thrum with life. Maastricht is home to a multilingual and multicultural population, as exemplified by its large student body hailing from all around Europe. As such, it is a mix of cultures and very different from other Dutch cities. This is demonstrated by its diverse and excellent culinary scene.

With contemporary architecture lying next to beautiful old buildings, towering cathedrals and trendy boutiques, wandering along its bustling cobbled streets is exhilarating – the festive Carnival being the highlight of the year.

5. Rotterdam

The second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is home to one of the biggest and busiest port on earth, with numerous waterways and canals crisscrossing the city. Having sustained considerable damage during the Second World War, the city is now characterized by futuristic and innovative architecture, although there is still an underlying grittiness to the place.

Rotterdam is a lively and diverse place, with great museums, cultural attractions, and of course, fantastic dining and drinking options befitting of such a large metropolis.

A popular day trip destination, it is easy to see what makes Delft such an attractive option. With its lovely medieval center and picturesque canals crossed by brick bridges and lined with trees, the city is quaint and peaceful.

Its most famous son, the painter Johannes Vermeer, is just one of many who has sung its praises over the ages. Famous for the distinctive blue and white tiles and ceramics that are produced here, visiting the Delftware factories is popular among tourists.

But, despite its wealth of beautiful old buildings, it is the atmosphere rather than any particular attraction that makes it worth visiting. Try and stay for the evening; once the day-trippers have left. the city´s canals shimmer delightfully in the lamp light.

One of the oldest cities in the country, Utrecht´s winding canals twist their way around its delightful medieval center, which has the arrestingly beautiful Domkerk cathedral towering above it. Although the sprawling suburbs do not make the best impression as you enter the city, its ugly tangled web of roads are soon forgotten once you get a feel for this lively place with its fun atmosphere.

Thanks in part to its huge student population, Utrecht has loads of cheap and cheerful bars and cafes, as well as lots of great eating options. Although there are not really many sights to visit , it is the ambiance of Utrecht that makes it a pleasure to visit.

2. The Hague

With the seat of government and the royal family residing within its confines, it seems slightly strange that The Hague is not the capital of the country. More appropriately, this large city has a stately air about it.

Grand mansions and canal houses line leafy boulevards, while embassies and government buildings surround its fine parks. Due to the international bodies such as the UN and EU, the city is very multicultural. It is much more laid back than edgy Amsterdam, and has a number of fine dining options and interesting museums on offer. Lying on the North Sea, it is home to Scheveningen – a very popular seaside resort in the country.

1. Amsterdam

Wandering along the cobbled streets that line the iconic canals, it is easy to see why attractive Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Beautiful gabled buildings and charming old bridges are everywhere you look. There are a number of world class museums on offer, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.

See also: Where to Stay in Amsterdam

Easily navigable on foot, one of the city´s main draws is simply wandering alongside its canals or taking a boat trip along their peaceful waters. With a youthful vibe and welcoming population, this liberal and cosmopolitan city has some atmospheric cafes and restaurants. It also has a lively nightlife in the form of clubs, bars and coffee shops – while the red-light district is never too far away.

A fantastic capital city with so much to see and do, just watch out for the bikes when crossing the road!

Map of cities in the Netherlands

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December 15, 2019 at 10:56 am

Overall Netherlands us a beautiful place with awesome places to visit, a variety of cuisines to try & people from different countries. There are many places which are worth visiting and have not been mentioned, I’ve visited Netherlands 5 times and still haven’t covered all of them. Just an awesome place with awesome people, awesome food and awesome infrastructure.

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The best places to visit in the Netherlands

May 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Contrast days exploring the Netherland's many cultural institutions with outdoorsy pursuits on Texel © Sara Winter / Shutterstock

The Netherlands is a treasure chest of exquisite art-filled cities and towns, canals, windmills and tulip fields, along with shiny-new sustainable urban environments, and glorious natural landscapes, coastlines and islands. While it’s one of Europe’s smaller nations (you can cross the entire country in a handful of hours), choosing where to spend your time takes planning.

These are the best places to begin your explorations.

1. Amsterdam

Best city for culture.

Ribboned by UNESCO-listed 17th-century canals that are lined by tilting gabled buildings that form its central core, the Dutch capital is a cultural jewel.

Amsterdam brims with museums headlined by the national showpiece the Rijksmuseum, neighboring Van Gogh Museum and modern-art Stedelijk Museum, with eye-openers like the Wereldmuseum museum of world cultures, and scores of smaller, specialist gems as niche as piano-player pianolas or sustainable fashion.

Music spanning classical to EDM spills from historic churches, hallowed concert halls (the Concertgebouw has near-perfect acoustics) and legendary venues like Melkweg, as well as open-air spaces such as the stage in the sprawling green Vondelpark.

Planning tip: It’s easy to avoid overtourism and escape the crowds by heading to less-visited neighborhoods. Amsterdam Noord is a fantastic starting point, home to a state-of-the-art film museum, the world’s biggest street-art museum, vast art "breeding ground" in former shipping warehouse NDSM-Loods, and eco-focused cafes and bars, many built from recycled materials. 

Find the ideal neighborhood to base yourself in Amsterdam.

2. Rotterdam

Best city for contemporary architecture.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city and Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam has triumphed over the adversity of its WWII devastation, transforming into a veritable gallery of contemporary architecture and public art. Standout structures include the Overblaak "forest" of tilted cube-shaped houses (one houses the Kijk-Kubus museum), the soaring, horseshoe-shaped Markthal with original food stalls and restaurants, and the gleaming mirror-ball-like Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – a world-first open-access art storage facility. Repurposed spaces abound, such as the Schieblock, a mid-century office building converted into creative studios, topped by a harvestable roof terrace.

Planning tip: An exhilarating way to see the shapeshifting cityscape is aboard a water taxi zipping across the harbor. Daredevils can even abseil 100m (328 ft) from Rotterdam’s iconic 1960-opened Euromast observation tower.

Save this guide to the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Best spot for outdoors activities

Basking less than 2 miles off the Dutch coast, the bucolic Wadden Sea island of Texel (pronounced "Tes-sel") is capped by a crimson lighthouse and fringed by sweeping white-sand beaches. With its lush pastures grazed by fluffy sheep (prized for their wool) and dairy cows (producing milk used in local cheeses, chocolate and ice cream, mixed with freshly picked berries), along with rambling forests and nature reserves, Texel is an outdoors paradise. Cycling trails crisscross the island, with activities ranging from horse riding and skydiving. Watersports include sailing and kite-surfing.

Some 10,000 seals swim in the surrounding waters; you can spot them on boat trips or at Ecomare’s seal sanctuary.

Planning tip: Ferries carry foot passengers, cars and bikes from mainland Den Helder to Texel in just 20 minutes. In summer, there’s also a service linking Texel with the Frisian island of Vlieland . 

Best for time-honored streetscapes and artistic traditions

Lovely little Delft , with its web of narrow canals lined by quaint, colorful buildings, seems preserved in another era. Centered on its medieval Markt, one of Europe’s largest market squares (markets still set up here on Thursdays), it’s crowned by the lopsided 14th-century spire of its Oude Kerk (Old Church), and 17th-century-completed Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – climbing its tower’s 376 spiraling steps provides beautiful views of the town.

A less demanding but equally picturesque impression is across the canal at Hooikade, where 17th-century Deft-born artist Vermeer, painted his famous View of Delft that’s still recognizable today. Vermeer’s life and techniques are covered at the Vermeer Centrum Delft.

The 17th century also saw artisans create an enduring legacy with the production of blue-and-white-painted pottery, known to the world as Delftware. Operating since 1653, Royal Delft has behind-the-scenes tours.

5. Den Haag (The Hague)

Best for regal museums and performing arts.

Stately Den Haag (The Hague) , the Netherlands’ third-largest city, isn’t the capital – that’s Amsterdam – but it is the seat of government and royalty. The glimmering Hofvijver pond relects the Gothic-style Binnenhof (Inner Court), the permanent home of the Dutch parliament (temporarily relocated until renovations that began in 2022 wrap up around 2028). The country’s monarch King Willem-Alexander works from adjacent Noordeinde Palace and lives at nearby palace Huis ten Bosch.

You won’t need a royal invitation to visit the dazzling royal picture gallery the Mauritshuis, hanging such masterpieces as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch . Former royal residence the Lange Voorhout Palace showcases the mind-bending works of Dutch graphic artist MC Escher. Bringing together organizations including the Royal Conservatoire and modern-dance Nederlands Dans Theater across four halls, 2021-opened performing arts complex Amare is the city’s cultural meeting point.

Planning tip: When the weather warms up, join locals unwinding at laid-back beach bars along the long, sandy strand at Scheveningen.

6. Maastricht

Best for roman relics and revelry  .

In this otherwise-flat country’s hilly southeast, Maastricht upends most visitors’ impressions of the Netherlands. Bordered by Germany and Belgium, its location on the ancient trading route between Cologne and Boulogne-sur-Mer saw the Romans establish a fort to guard the crossing on the Maas (Meuse) river. You can see the site of the original bridge from its replacement, the arched, stone footbridge Sint Servaasbrug, begun in 1280 and the Netherland’s oldest bridge.

Maastricht’s unbuttoned joie de vivre harks back to the 15th century when it was part of the vast Burgundy powerbase, resulting in rich food and flowing wine, beer and merriment. Great places to whet your appetite are the city squares Markt, Vrijthof (overlooked by Romanesque basilica Sint Servaasbasiliek) and Onze Lieve Vrowplein (by Romanesque church, Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek).

Planning tip: Carousing peaks during Carnaval, in the lead-up to Shrove Tuesday (February or March), when many businesses otherwise close and costumed parades and parties take over.

Want to attend a festival like Carnaval or King's Day? Here are the best times to g o.

Best spot for history lessons

Whether your historical interest is academia, art or trans-Atlantic history, Leiden is a must-visit. Threaded by canals, it’s home to the Netherlands’ oldest and most illustrious university, gifted to Leiden by Willem the Silent in 1575; its botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, opened in 1590, shelters rare species from all over the world.

Befitting an academic city, Leiden is stuffed with fascinating museums; the flagship Museum De Lakenhal, in a former cloth warehouse, displays works by artists including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden in 1606. The Pilgrims, religious refugees who had fled England for Amsterdam in 1608, moved to Leiden the following year, raising money to lease the Speedwell to commence their journey to the New World in 1620. The tiny Leiden American Pilgrim Museum charts their story.

Planning tip: Leiden is a jumping-off point for springtime trips through the rainbow-striped tulip fields and Keukenhof Gardens , 10 miles north at Lisse, when some seven million bulbs bloom.

Best place for unique perspectives

Utrecht ’s university was founded in 1636, and this vibrant student city buzzes with independent shops, bars and bakery-cafes.

The city has some singular vantage points. From the top of its Utrecht's medieval landmark, the 112m (367ft) belfry Domtoren, reached by 465 steps, you can see as far as Amsterdam on a clear day. The Domkerk cathedral’s nave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1674 and never rebuilt. Below ground DOMunder guided tours take you to an underground archaeological site covering two millennia of history. Paleis Lofen tours explore the subterranean remains of this residence built by the Holy Roman Emperors around 1020 AD, incorporating Roman remains.

Also unique to Utrecht are its canals. Sluicing through the historic center, the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht have double-decker towpaths, at both river level, where merchants offloaded goods into kelders (cellars), many of which house cafes and accommodation, and street level above. You can see another side to them from the water by boat, kayak or canoe.

Best for beaches, dunes and wildlife

The grand city of Haarlem – with its Grote Markt (Great Market) square, centuries-old churches (try to catch a Müller organ recital at the Grote Kerk) and impressive ensemble of museums (notably Frans Hals and Teylers) – is a splendid place to visit in itself.

When you’ve had your fill, the city is an ideal base for accessing powdery-soft, white-sand beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendal aan Zee, via the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park , which teems with wildlife: along with birds and bats, you might spot bison, red foxes and fallow deer, as well as 2016-introduced horned Highland cattle. Kopje van Bloemendaal is the Netherlands’ highest dune, with views of the sea and Amsterdam (the capital is just 20 minutes from Haarlem). 

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25 Most Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

Which are the most beautiful places in the Netherlands? This post contains a selection of the most beautiful cities , little towns and villages , castles , gardens and nature parks in the Netherlands. It provides inspiration for everyone who wants to visit the country but doesn’t know what are the must-sees and where to start. Discover the Netherlands with these 25 amazing places!

I have divided those charming places in 5 categories. I thought it would be fair if I include 5 entries per category, thus I can show you the diversity the Netherlands can offer to all visitors.

You can scroll through the list or you can choose a category from the drop-down menu that’s of interest to you. There is also a handy map, with all places indicated on it, which will help you to better plan your stay in the country.

De Biesbosch

Loonse en drunense duinen, alde feanen, de haar castle, hoensbroek castle, slot loevestein, ammersoyen castle, the gardens of appeltern, the castle gardens of arcen, the castle garden of oud-valkenburg, botanical garden in kerkrade, final words, 5 most beautiful cities in the netherlands.

Amsterdam with its spiderweb of canals and the stepped-gable houses alongside the water is perhaps the most visited place in the Netherlands and undeniably one of the most beautiful cities not only in the Netherlands but in the world. When you visit the Netherlands for the first time, the Dutch capital should be on your bucket list. Take a boat trip along the canals (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visit a museum or two if you have more time. If you are a fan of Van Gogh, you won’t be disappointed, as the Van Gogh Museum has the biggest collection of the artist’s works. The Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank Museum are also a must.

Tip: When planning your visit to Amsterdam, check out these 4 walking routes in the Dutch capital . The post contains also a map for an easy self-guided tour.

Read more: Best things to do and see in Amsterdam if you are visiting only for a day

Den Bosch, or ‘s-Hertogenbosch, is the major city of North Brabant – the Dutch province that’s famous for the good food and the joie-de-vivre life style. Admire the majestic St. John’s Cathedral ( Sint-Janskathedraal ) and take a boat tour in the old city sewerage ( De Binnendieze ). Don’t miss to take a beer on De Parade (a square near the cathedral) and if you are fan of the Medieval painter Hieronymus Bosch, who was born there in this city, visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre , where you can find all his works (in reproduction) at one place.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Den Bosch

Utrecht is absolutely charming with its canals and the cafes at the water level . When in Utrecht, visit the beautiful Dom (the cathedral of Utrecht). You can climb to the top of the cathedral for some amazing views or get underneath it for some Roman ruins. If you want to get off-the-beaten path, visit the quirky Museum Speelklok , where you can admire their unique collection of self-playing instruments.

Read more: Discover the best things to see and do in Utrecht

Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and is often called the Pearl of the South. The locals just love a day trip to Maastricht combined with some first class shopping. When in Maastricht, visit the beautiful Vrijthof Square with the St. Servatius Basilica ( Sint-Servaasbasiliek ) and the St. John’s Church ( Sint-Janskerk ). A fan of classic music? Then a concert of Andre Rieu on the Vrijthof Square in the summer is a must. This is a once-in-a-life-time experience and I can vouch for it from first hand.

Read more: How to spend the perfect day in Maastricht . If you are visiting in the winter you should not miss the famous Christmas Market of Maastricht .

Rotterdam is like no other city in the Netherlands – it’s modern, it’s hipster and it’s full of life. It’s one of the few places in the Netherlands where the skyline is dominated by high-rises . When in Rotterdam, take a boat tour in the harbour. Europort used to be the biggest one in the world, but it lost its first place some years ago, now being only the biggest in Europe. If you love great views, climb to the top of the Euromast and if you need a bit of an adrenaline rush, you can go down with a zip-wire. Oh, and fan of quirky architecture? Take a look at the famous Cube Houses or the Markthal.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Rotterdam

5 Most beautiful villages and small towns in the Netherlands

They call it the little white town and for a reason. All the houses are white in this little place, something quite unusual for the Netherlands. Thorn has unique historical heritage. It started as a cloister and turned into a prosperous Abbey-State , a dwarf state in the 15th-18th centuries, ruled by women. The town is a popular tourist destination among the Dutch. The best Dutch pancakes restaurant has there a branch, so I can’t help it but recommend paying a visit to the Pannekoekenbakker for the most delicious Dutch pancakes.

Read more: What to see and in Thorn and why are the houses after all white in Thorn

When you travel to the Netherlands, you should visit at least one of its walled towns, which are part of the so-called Southern Defense Line ( De Zuiderwaterlinie ). Heusden is one of them – a little town in the shape of a star, surrounded by water. It looks as if time has stopped in Heusden, but instead of being just and open-air museum, the little place is actually a regular small town with a great dose of charm and lots of cuteness. When in Heusden, take a walk alongside the bulwarks , thus you can make a complete circle around the town. For some great Dutch pancakes, stop at the Pannekoekenbakker .

Read more: Best things to do in Heusden, recommended by a local

Valkenburg is a lovely small town in South Limburg. It’s famous for the chalk quarries ( mergelgrotten ) and the Castle Ruins ( Kasteelruinen ) perched on a hill above the town. Numerous cafes and restaurants line up the streets of this small place. It’s a very popular holiday destination among the Dutch and it’s always thriving with life. Well, after all, it’s one of the two places in the Netherlands where there are caves. Moreover the landscape around Valkenburg is quite pretty with the rolling hills and the cattle grazing on the meadows, and the occasional castle here and there.

Read more: The best things to see and do in Valkenburg, recommended by a local

Once an important harbour, this cute little place turned into an inland town after the sea was drained in the 17th century to make place for more land. The regained land from the sea is known as polder , and the area around De Rijp – De Beemster Polder , is included on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the last years most of the houses have been beautifully restored and the little town is full of charm. You can find there some of the oldest wooden houses in the Province of North Holland.

They call it the Venice of the North or the Dutch Venice and indeed Giethoorn completely deserves its nickname. Imagine an idyllic small village with no streets but canals instead. Beautiful houses, mostly farms, with thatched roofs, lots of green and flowers and the willows hanging above the crooked bridges. Unfortunately the last years Giethoorn has been discovered by the tourists and is suffering from overtourism. Nonetheless, the place is simply gorgeous and too cute not to see it.

5 Most beautiful national parks in the Netherlands

If you are in a search of a quiet place with gorgeous sunsets, green waters and vast sand beaches – you’ll find it all on this small West Frisian island . Not to forget the little quaint villages, the pastoral landscapes and the great local food. Oh, and a part of the island is a protected area as one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. When travelling to Texel, just leave your car on the mainland, as you won’t need it on the island. However taking your bike with you is a great idea.

Read more: Best things to do on Texel island

De Biesbosch is probably the most unique national park in the Netherlands. The land that was reclaimed from the marshlands in the past centuries is now given back to nature. De Biesbosch is one of the biggest freshwater tidal wetlands in Europe – a network of interconnected rivers and creeks, a kind of an inland delta. The best way to discover this beautiful area is by boat.

Read more: De Biescbosch National Park – complete travel guide

This Dutch National Park looks totally out of place – moving sand dunes in de middle of the country. The Dunes of Loon and Drunen are actually the biggest sand-drifting area in Northern Europe. For a country with hardly any hilltops, leave alone mountains, the Dunes are great for hiking and even sleighing in the winter (if it happens to snow). In the late summer when the heath is in bloom, the dunes turn into a magical purple haze.

Read more: Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park – complete travel guide

De Meinweg is another one of the 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. This park is characterized by terraced landscape with steep transitions between the plateaus. You can walk there through forests , marshlands and lakes . There’s also this lovely trail that goes along a boardwalk through a flooded forest. As the National Park is located at the border with Germany, you might just pop up there without noticing it.

De Alde Feanen National Park is the youngest National Park in the Netherlands. It was added in 2012 as the 20th National Park. It’s a bogland area located in Dutch Province of Friesland near the capital city Leeuwarden. The bog is home to more than 450 plant species and over 100 bird species . The most popular inhabitants of the Alde Feanen are the white storks . You can spot them everywhere. It’s a peaceful area where you can go for walking, biking or boating. It’s so quiet there that you will feel absolutely disconnected from the rest of the world.

Read more: De Alde Feanen National Park – complete travel guide

5 Most beautiful castles and palaces in the Netherlands

De Haar Castle ( Kasteel De Haar ) near Utrecht is perhaps the most famous and most visited Dutch castle. If it’s the most beautiful one, that’s pretty subjective, but it’s for sure quite imposing. The castle was restored in 1892 by the famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers in a Gothic Revival style. The original castle dates back to the end of the 14th century. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens. You can visit both the castle and the park.

The Hoensbroek Castle ( Kasteel Hoensbroek ) is a lovely castle in the southern province of Limburg. The first fortress on this place dates back to 1360. Through the years the castle has been expanded many times. It belonged to the van Hoensbroek family, the one that built it for nearly 6 centuries. In 1927 the castle was sold to a foundation which still manages it as of present. Today, the castle can be visited and it gives an idea of how life was in 17th and 18th centuries. The furnishings are back from the period. You can do a self-guided tour of the castle and in each room there are interactive stories told in various ways.

Slot Loevestein was built in the 14th century by the knight Dirc Loef but soon after it was taken by the Count of Holland . In the 17th century the castle was turned into a state prison. One of the greatest legal scholars, the father of the modern international law – Hugo Grotius ( Hugo de Groot in Dutch), was imprisoned there but he succeeded to escape. How did he manage to escape? I won’t tell you. Visit the castle to find out.

Ammersoyen Castle ( Kasteel Ammerzoyen ) is a beautiful castle surrounded by water in the province of Gelderland. The construction of the defensive castle near the Meuse River started in the 12th century and it was finished in the 13th century. The Ammersoyen Castle was completely restored to its medieval glory in the 1970s and is open for visitors.

There aren’t many palaces in the Netherlands, but from the few that are still there, Het Loo Palace ( Paleis Het Loo ) is undoubtedly the most beautiful one. And not only the palace is worth the visit. The meticulously manicured and kept Baroque gardens contrast with the natural and a bit wild beauty of the English park . Let’s say Het Loo Palace is the Dutch Versailles , but not because it looks like the palace near Paris, it’s because of its significance and role through the centuries as the palace of the House of Orange-Nassau (the Dutch Royal House).

Read more: The 15 most beautiful castles in the Netherlands

5 Most beautiful parks and gardens in the Netherlands

Tulips! Lots of tulips! Everywhere! You can’t find a place more Dutchy than that. Unfortunately, being a spring garden, Keukenhof is open only in the period March-May. It’s a perfectly manicured garden, where each year they plant more than 7 million spring flower bulbs . Hyacinths, tulips, crocuses, and daffodils in most amazing shapes and colors create intricate patterns and stun the visitors.

Read more: Everything you need to know about visiting Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands

The Gardens of Appeltern ( De Appeltern Tuinen ) started as a company project and evolved into the biggest and most beautiful garden park in the Netherlands. The park was created in 1980s as a series of show-model gardens and today it features more than 200 different inspiration gardens on 23 ha.

If you are visiting the Netherlands and the Keukenhof gardens are closed your best bet will be the Castle Gardens of Arcen ( Kasteeltuinen Arcen ). A meticulously manicured park with gardens and a lovely castle – the Castle Gardens of Arcen won’t disappoint you. The best time to visit the park is June-July when all flowers are in bloom. Beside the gardens, you can also visit the castle.

The Castle Garden of Oud-Valkenburg ( Kasteeltuin Oud-Valkenburg ) is a lovely small scale garden in South Limburg. Once it used to be the kitchen garden of the Schaloen Castle . Today, it features a herbal garden and a heritage garden , which shows local traditional flora. There’s also a watermill at the garden. You can combine a visit to the garden with a walk to the castle. The Schaloen Castle is not open for visitors, but there is a nice cafe outside where you can enjoy the beautiful view with the castle and its gardens.

The Botanical Garden in Kerkrade ( Botanische Tuin Kerkrade ) has a very interesting history. It opened in 1937 as a recreational garden for the mine workers of the State Mines ( Staatsmijnen ). Mining was booming in South Limburg and lots of facilities were created for the equally booming population in the region. The centerpiece of the Botanical Garden is the Open-air Cathedral – the trees are arched and arranged in such a way that they remind of the framework of a cathedral. There are 195 varieties of plants and trees found today in the Botanical Garden.

Read more: What to do and see in Kerkrade

Although flat as a pancake, the Netherlands can offer some amazing places, from the capital city of Amsterdam with its UNESCO-listed canals and stepped-gable houses, to the quaint little village of Giethoorn with no streets. For an explosion of colors yous should visit the famous Keukenhof tulip gardens and if you want to escape the world, you can do so in one of the National Parks. Chasing castles? No problem. You will find an abundance of them!

Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group , where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.

About Daniela

15 Top-Rated Cities in the Netherlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 3, 2023

Although it's one of Europe's smallest nations, the Netherlands offers plenty of good reasons for tourists to visit. Sightseeing opportunities are everywhere, and thanks to a superb rail and road network, not to mention the country's diminutive size, it's extremely easy to get around.

One of the top things to do in the Netherlands is to partake in some city-hopping. Each of the fun tourist destinations included in our list of top cities in the Netherlands are easily accessible to visitors via public transit, often with journey times of less than an hour. In fact, you can even get to the country's largest and most visited city, Amsterdam, via high-speed train from the center of London, England , in just a few hours.

Whichever of these cities you do choose to visit (and why not all of them?), you'll find plenty of information about the best things to do when you get there in our comprehensive list of the top cities in the Netherlands.

1. Amsterdam

3. maastricht, 5. rotterdam, 6. the hague, 8. lisse (keukenhof), 11. eindhoven, 12. groningen, 14. nijmegen.

The largest city in the Netherlands, Amsterdam offers plenty of great attractions to visit. This vibrant Dutch city in fact attracts over 18 million tourists per year, making it one of the top places to visit in Europe for an urban getaway.

Topping our list of fun things to do in Amsterdam is wandering the cobbled streets that line the city's many picturesque canals. This is especially fun to do around the city's attractive Jordaan neighborhood. The old homes here were constructed in the early 17th century and are notable for the small inner courtyards tucked away behind them.

After exploring this area on foot, head over to Grachtengordel . This romantic area features the iconic bridges and houseboats the city is so well known for. No end of fun can be had exploring the many quaint shops, or stopping at a café for some people-watching.

From here, you're just a few minutes away from Dam Square and many other popular city attractions. One of the most visited is the Rijksmuseum . This huge, architecturally stunning museum and gallery is home to an incredible collection of artwork that includes many important pieces by the Old Masters, including Rembrandt. Other must-visits include the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, one of the city's top museums and a must-visit for art fans.

And if you've not had enough of exploring the city on foot, head over to the Vondelpark. This 120-acre urban park is also great to relax in, so take a picnic, or throw down a blanket and catch a theatrical or musical performance here.

Planning to visit Amsterdam in Winter ? The smaller crowd sizes during the shoulder seasons make museum-hopping much easier, while seasonal activities such as skating and visiting Christmas markets make venturing outdoors fun.

Although it's one of the largest cities in the Netherlands, there are parts of Utrecht that will fool you into thinking you're somewhere much smaller. Much of the older architecture has been well-preserved and is in areas often devoid of traffic, making exploring on foot a pleasurable experience.

The focus of your stroll through Utrecht should be around the charming Old Town area. Known as Binnenstad, it's here, in Cathedral Square (Domplein), that you'll come face-to-face with the spectacular St. Martin's Cathedral , or Domkerk. Built in 1254, it's somewhat smaller now, as the original tower, the Domtoren, stands alone across a park, separated from the main structure by a storm in the 17th century.

Another top attraction you can experience on foot is DOMUnder . Here, a fascinating self-guided tour takes you deep underneath Cathedral Square to the remains of the old Roman fortress upon which the city was built.

Other must-see attractions in Utrecht include Museum Speelklok, dedicated to musical clocks, and the Centraal Museum , which houses the city's collections of art and artifacts. If you can squeeze in one more Utrecht point of interest, make it the Railway Museum, with its displays of old steam engines and rolling stock.

The attractive city of Maastricht is able to trace its history all the way back to 50 BCE. It was then that the Romans established a crossing point over the river Maas. Since that time, Maastricht has grown tremendously and now covers both sides of this important trade route.

Today, this attractive old city draws not traders but tourists. Many of them come here just to enjoy walking across the spectacular Wilhelminabrug and Sint Servaasbrug bridges as they tour Maastricht's lovely riverside districts. It's a must-do here, with the Sint Servaasbrug dating all the way back to the 13th century.

Along the way, you'll pass a variety of interesting historic sites. These include remnants of the medieval town walls and the market square with its old Town Hall. Be sure to also pop into the oldest church in the Netherlands, St. Servaaskerk . This church can trace its roots all the way back to the 4th century, and is home to the Treasures of Saint Servatius, with its extremely old religious artifacts.

The St. Pietersberg Caves are also worth visiting. Consisting of more than 20,000 centuries-old passageways and tunnels stretching a total of 80 kilometers, the caves can be explored as part of a fun tour.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Maastricht

An easy commute from The Hague and Rotterdam, the city of Delft is famous the world over for its pottery. Delftware has adorned dining tables and mantlepieces for over 400 years, and thanks to a revival in past decades, has helped cement the city's reputation as a tourist destination.

It's no surprise, then, that one of the city's top attractions is De Porceleyne Fles . Founded in 1653, this company's still going strong and is in fact the last remaining of 32 such companies that once existed in Delft.

Sign up for a guided tour, and you'll be able to watch painters adorn this famous pottery with its distinctive blue and white motifs, as well as enjoy a tour of the factory. And, of course, you'll have the chance to buy a little something memorable to take home with you as a souvenir.

Be sure to allow time in your Delft itinerary to explore the picturesque Old Town. Like most historic town centers in the Netherlands, it's a picture-perfect scene of old canals, homes, and waterside cafés.

Located only 40 minutes from Amsterdam by train, the port city of Rotterdam should definitely be included on your Netherlands travel itinerary. Located at the North Sea end of the Rhine, Rotterdam is the busiest and largest port on the planet, with much of Europe's freight passing through it.

While the architecture here is newer than in Amsterdam as much of the city core was destroyed in the war, there's still plenty of sightseeing to be enjoyed here. Rotterdam highlights include the beautiful 15th-century Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk church, notable for its stained-glass windows, its three organs, and the chance to climb its tower.

Also worth seeing, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is a popular art gallery that includes works by Ruben and Rembrandt. The city is also famous for its variety of cool modern architecture, including the 185-meter-tall Euromast and the famous Cube Houses.

If there's time in your schedule, be sure to hop aboard a boat for a tour of the Europoort harbor. It ranks as the world's sixth largest port, and it's impressive watching the huge volume of shipping traffic come and go.

The third largest city in the Netherlands has much to offer travelers in search of memorable experiences. Topping our list when visiting The Hague (Den Haag) is the city's Binnenhof, or Inner Court, featuring buildings dating all the way back to the mid-13th century.

Here, you can explore the majestic old homes that once belonged to the aristocracy and now serve as home to the country's parliament. Be sure to visit the Knight's Hall, or Ridderzaal, a huge medieval hall that's been immaculately preserved.

From here, it's an easy walk to the city's best shopping and dining opportunities, as well as other popular attractions . Among the must-sees are the 14th-century Great St. James Church (Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk) and the famous Peace Palace , built in 1913 and home of the International Court of Justice.

One of the most attractive small cities in Noord-Holland (North Holland), Haarlem is just a few minutes away from Amsterdam by rail and makes for a great break from the crowds of its much bigger neighbor. Here, you can wander the lovely streets of the old port area without the crowds, taking in the many attractive old homes and buildings of the historic Bakenesser Gracht district.

It's also where you'll find Hofje van Bakenes, a 14th-century courtyard that's remained unchanged for some 700 years, as well as old drawbridges and the original 15th-century city gate. It's also fun to walk around the old town square, where you'll find the Grote Kerk. Officially known as St.-Bavokerk, this old church dominates the square, and for a unique experience, try to grab one of the regular organ recitals held here.

Other must-sees in Haarlem include the City Hall, which dates back to the 13th century, and the fascinating Teyler's Museum , an 18th-century museum focusing on the development of art and science.

Nothing screams "You're in the Netherlands!" quite like a visit to Keukenhof , the country's leading tulip-growing enterprise. Located in the town of Lisse, its proximity to Amsterdam, just 40 minutes' drive away, makes it one of the country's most popular day trip destinations .

Visit here in springtime, and you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking vista of countless flowering tulips set in a beautiful park-like setting and the perfect backdrop for a selfie or two.

Known in the Netherlands as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof covers an impressive 70 acres and is considered one of the world's largest public gardens. As the flowers spring into bloom, the local townsfolk celebrate with their annual flower parade, Bollenstreek, which winds through the town. There's also a museum in Lisse dedicated to the history of the country's most important flower.

Arnhem earned its place in the annals of war thanks to being included in the ill-fated allied operation known as Market Garden. It was around the city's important Rhine River bridge in 1944 that intense fighting between British paratroopers and German defenders took place, the scars of which can still be seen today.

But there's much more to here than following the drama that was portrayed in the famous A Bridge Too Far film. The city can, in fact, trace its roots to pre-Roman times, and during the Middle Ages, it blossomed as a place of trade and commerce.

Arnhem remains a vibrant place for visitors to explore, and in addition to its many pleasant old streets and squares lined with boutique shops and cafés, it's home to numerous cultural and adventure opportunities .

Of these, the best include the superb Netherlands Open Air Museum, which showcases traditional Dutch lifestyles and ways of life, and the country's largest conservation area, Hoge Veluwe National Park , with its endless opportunities for outdoor fun.

Just a stone's throw from the border with the even smaller country of Belgium , the city of Breda's rich history and well-preserved Old Town center make it a popular stopover for travelers to the Netherlands. Lined with old townhomes, fortifications, and moats, it's a delightful place to explore on foot or, as so many Netherlanders do, by bike.

A must-see here is the charming Begijnhof district. This small church community within the city center has remained unchanged for close to 200 years.

Breda's largest church, the 13th-century Grote Kerk , should also be visited, with the main feature being its 97-meter-tall church tower. A short stroll away is the fascinating Spaniard's Hole (Spanjaardsgat), a twin-towered water gate near the historic Port Quarter , and Breda Castle, a former home of the country's royalty.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Breda

Famous as the birthplace of electronics firm Philips, Eindhoven offers plenty of fun things for travelers to do . Topping our list of favorite experiences in the "City of Light" is exploring its many connections to the art world.

Start your exploration of the city's rich cultural heritage with a visit to the Van Abbemuseum , a gallery housing important works of modern art by the world's leading artists, including Pablo Picasso.

Hop on a bus and, just a few minutes' ride away, you'll find yourself in the quaint village of Nuenen. This picturesque spot was made famous by Vincent Van Gogh, who not only painted scenes depicting the locale, but also lived here for a short period.

The recently renovated Vincentre by Van Gogh Village Museum (Stichting Van Gogh Village Nuenen ) attraction re-opened in 2023 and is dedicated to this period in the great artist's life.

One of the country's most important port cities, the city of Groningen's history can be traced back hundreds of years to a time when it was granted rights to mint its own coins and became an important trading hub.

These days, this vibrant university city has a reputation for its many cultural opportunities, as well as its lively festival scene. In fact, some of the city's most popular open spaces regularly host concerts and other events, with one of the most popular being the Noorderzon Theater Festival , held each summer in Noorderplantsoen park.

The city center is where you'll find Martin's Church, a 13th-century edifice that dominates the city's pedestrian-friendly market square. As much fun as it is to walk in Groningen, cyclists will be pleased to know this bustling city has a reputation as a bike-friendly destination, with its many cycle paths making it ideal to explore on two wheels.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Groningen & Easy Day Trips

The university city of Leiden (or Leyden) is another quintessentially Dutch urban destination that should be included in your Netherlands travel itinerary.

It was here that the country's national flower, the tulip, was first introduced to the continent. Venture out into the surrounding countryside, and you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable image of these colorful flowers being grown in their thousands, waiting to make their way around the globe.

Visit the town's Wednesday street market, and you'll not only find plenty of tulips on display but also a wide variety of local produce, including cheeses and meats, as well as traditional craft goods. From here, you're just steps away from the canals where you can pick up a fun tour boat for a longer journey out onto the Rhine River.

• Read More: Best Attractions & Things to Do in Leiden

Just a few kilometers from the border with neighboring Germany and close to the city of Arnhem, Nijmegen is certainly worth exploring. A highlight of a visit to this bustling city is the chance to stroll along the banks of the Rhine, stopping to watch the river traffic, or sitting on a café patio in one of its many pedestrian areas for refreshments as the world passes you by.

Popular places to visit here include the Valkhof, a very pleasant park that incorporates a site once fortified by Charlemagne in the 8th century. The views over the Rhine from here and the old ruins of the Maartenskapel will certainly make you want to linger awhile.

Located mid-way between the much larger cities of Utrecht and Rotterdam, the city of Gouda is a popular place to visit in the Netherlands for vacationers and day trippers alike. Despite having a relatively small population of only around 75,000 people, this attractive small city has had a sizeable impact on the nation's food and cultural traditions.

In addition to its famous Gouda cheese, it was here that the country's famous "stroopwafel" cookies originated in the 18th century. In addition to its culinary treats, Gouda is also famous for its historic Old Town. Here you'll find everything from a perfectly preserved 800-year-old city hall to numerous pretty churches to a delightful historic port area that's fun to explore on foot.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is often incorrectly referred to as Holland, and is one of the most vibrant and interesting countries in Europe. Known for its eclectic capital city of Amsterdam, the Netherlands is far more than just canals and museums, and if you venture further afield you will find picture postcard pretty towns as well as dynamic cities like Rotterdam and The Hague.

Due to its relatively small size it is easy to visit the Netherlands fairly quickly and to see a lot of the country in a short space of time. Getting out into the countryside is often one of the highlights of a trip for many, especially if you visit famous areas like the traditional villages that are filled with iconic windmills and tulips. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is by bicycle and fortunately much of the Netherlands is flat which means you can easily navigate the landscape and enjoy the great Dutch outdoors.

Here are the best things to do in the Netherlands :

1. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Similar to many other cities that sit over water such as Venice, Amsterdam has a vibrant canal system.

The pretty waterways are one of the best loved attractions in Amsterdam and you can explore the idyllic routes by taking a boat tour or a water taxi that lets you hop around a range of locations.

If you don’t want to take to the water then you can still enjoy the canal sights with a leisurely stroll along the banks.

Book a cruise : Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

2. Visit Zaanse Schans

Those who wish they could travel back in time and visit the Netherlands of the 17th and 18th centuries have come to the right place.

Zaanse Schans is located around 15 kilometers to the north of Amsterdam and is styled as an open-air museum where you can take a stroll around a traditional Dutch village and find out how ancient craftsmen would have worked.

Just some of the sights include a shipyard, a grocery store, a pewter factory, and a range of dainty green wooden houses.

You will also find some graceful windmills although out of the 600 that would have dotted the area in the days of old, only 5 now remain and can be visited by the public.

These include an iconic saw mill as well as an oil mill and you will find fun live demonstrations like a clog making session.

Recommended tour : Zaanse Schans Windmills Half-Day Tour

3. Stroll around the Garden of Europe

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is a riot of color with blooms of every hue as far as the eye can see.

Tulips are the signature flowers of this country and the Garden of Europe just outside of Lisse is the largest public garden anywhere in the world.

Covering 70 acres of land, you will find gorgeous flower exhibitions as well as restaurants and a wide variety of flora including daffodils hyacinths, and crocuses.

Book online : Keukenhof Gardens Tour

4. Admire Grote Kerk

Grote Kerk is found in The Hague and is a large church that is built from red brick in Gothic style.

The original building here would have been built in the 13th century although it was razed to the ground in 1539 and rebuilt in the present structure.

The church has an illustrious history as the spot where many members of the Dutch royal family where baptized including King Willem-Alexander who had his christening here.

Things to look out for at the church include the dominating bell tower which is the highest in Holland and contains 51 bells as well as the ornate wooden pulpit and the huge pipe organ.

5. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch National Museum located in Amsterdam and is filled with an amazing collection of art and antiques which date from 1809. The building houses over 7 million items and has more than 5,000 paintings that sprawl over 250 rooms.

There is a library here with 35,000 books and you can see some of the most impressive paintings in the world created by the ‘Old Masters’. Much of the museum focuses on traditional Dutch artifacts like ancient handicrafts and sculptures from the medieval period but you will also find exciting modern art.

Make sure you leave ample time to see everything as you can easily spend a full day here exploring every nook and cranny.

Get tickets : Rijksmuseum Entrance Ticket

6. Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Netherlands is often thought of as a small country primarily made up of small towns and cities but actually it has some wonderful national parks.

The largest and most famous of these is the Hoge Veluwe National Park which sits in between Apeldoorn and Arnhem.

It sprawls over an areas of 13,800 acres and is perfect if you are looking for an easy day trip.

The park is covered in woodland and features other quirky exhibits such as a sculpture park, and just some of the residents you will find in the park include red and roe deer.

Other spots include graceful dunes that are covered with heath and if you like bird watching then this is the place to spot a whole range of species.

7. Visit the Anne Frank Museum

The Anne Frank Museum is one of the most famous attractions in Amsterdam and makes for an extremely moving visit.

The building is the former home of Anne Frank who hid from the Nazis here during the Second World War.

Anne Frank died two months before the war ended but her diary that she wrote in the home was found and went on to become one of the most important books in the world.

The home has been restored although the hiding place in which the family lived is much as it would have been when Anne Frank lived here.

This is absolutely not to be missed if you are in Amsterdam and offers a poignant and personal view on this well known story.

Related tour : Life of Anne Frank and World War II Walking Tour

8. Enjoy the village of Marken

The little village of Marken is known for being one of the prettiest spots in the Netherlands, particularly thanks to its strategic location on the Ijsselmeer Lake.

Crowds of visitors flock to the town every year to take in its picture-postcard worthy attractions such as traditional painted wooden houses as well as fishing boats.

In the summer months there are festivals held here where the residents dress in period garb and you can see traditional crafts like clog making taking place.

Included in : Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken Tour

9. Have fun at Efteling

Efteling is the biggest amusement park in the Netherlands and is located at Kaatsheuvel.

The park is divided up into different zones that are known as realms and each one focuses on a different ancient myth or legend.

Efteling has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest themes parks in the world having first opened its doors in 1952 and has been entertaining visitors ever since with its fast rides and lush gardens.

Just some of the highlights here include rides like the Joris en de Draak or the George and the Dragon as well as The Flying Dutchman and the Python.

There are also other areas such as the Raveleijn which is a magical world with a nightly performance that tells the story of 5 siblings who battle and defeat an evil monster.

Book online : Efteling Theme Park Resort Admission Ticket

10. Take a trip to Madurodam

If you want to see the whole of the Netherlands but don’t have time then travel to Madurodam in The Hague.

Here you will find a mini version of the Netherlands on a 1:25 scale and you can see all the county’s top destinations including cute windmills, main landmarks, and decorative features like bridges.

This model city even includes its own harbor as well as a railway system and an airport.

Book online : Madurodam Miniature Park Entrance Ticket

11. Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk

Enjoying a scenic location on the River Noord and nestled between Rotterdam and Dordrecht is the village of Kinderdijk which means ‘Children’s Dike’ in Dutch.

The main reason to come here is to take in the beautiful windmills that date from the 18th century and this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are 19 windmills here that date from 1722-1761 and this is the largest group of these structures anywhere in the Netherlands.

You can visit from April to October and there are designated times throughout the year when the sails of the windmills spin and you can see them in all their glory.

12. Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is an ode to one of the greatest artists ever to have lived.

In addition to that, the Van Gogh Museum is regularly voted one of the best art museums in the world, so art-lovers should make sure not to miss it off the itinerary.

An impressive 1.5 million visitors make their way here each year and the museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh pieces in the world.

To that end you will find 200 beautiful paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters that give you a unique insight into the life of the artist.

Fast Entry : Van Gogh Museum Ticket

13. Have a beer at the Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience in Amsterdam is the place to come if you want to learn all about how this famous beer evolved.

The experience takes place in an old Heineken brewery and you can learn about the Heineken family as well as see the actual brewing process that is used to make the beer.

This starts from the kind of water used all the way through to the bottling process and you can also see classic examples of the iconic Heineken logo and see how it has changed over the years.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can of course also sample this famous brew and end the trip with a tasting session.

14. Explore Mauritshuis

Mauritshuis, located in The Hague, is one of the premium art galleries in the Netherlands and is known for its vast collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings.

The building itself is a work of art and dates from the 17th century and is nestled between Hofvijver Lake and the parliament buildings.

Filled with over 800 works of art, this is one of the smaller museums in terms of size but it has some of the most iconic works in the world such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring which was created by Johannes Vermeer.

15. Visit Historic Valkenburg

If you like history then make sure not to miss Valkenburg which lies in the beautiful Geul Valley.

The town is the proud owner of the only hilltop castle in the Netherlands which dates from the 12th century.

The castle sits atop Dwingelrots or Castle Rock and you can also take in the neighboring 14th century basilica called St. Nicolaaskerk Basilica.

As well as its ancient ruins the town is also famous for its spas and caves as well as its Christmas Market which opens from November to December in the beautifully named Velvet Caves.

16. Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo in Amsterdam first opened its gates in 1838 making it the oldest zoo in the Netherlands.

It sprawls across more than 35 acres and has 900 different species of animals many of which are housed in ornate and spacious compounds that were designed in the 19th century.

There is also an aquarium section that was built in 1882 that features diverse species like sharks, eel, and colorful tropical fish.

Make sure to look out for the tray bikes that circle the zoo selling traditional Dutch pancakes called bitterballen.

Get tickets : ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo: Entry Ticket

17. Sample some cheese in Edam

Edam cheese is famous the world over for its red hued rind and signature round shape.

Many people won’t realize however that Edam is actually not just the name of the cheese but also the place it comes from which is the pretty town of Edam.

The town is located on the water and dates back to the 12th century and has an array of cheese related sites to enjoy.

Don’t be surprised if Edam cheese looks a little different here, as it is actually sold with a yellow rind rather than a red one.

Some of the signature attractions for cheese lovers here include a large cheese market and a famous cheese-weighing hall.

18. Explore Zeeland’s Dikes

The area of Zeeland sits on the Schlede, Maas, and Rhine rivers and is covered in little islands and coves.

Most of the area sits below sea level, and for this reason needs to use dikes to guard against flooding.

The main dike project here is called Delta Works which is a series of cutting-edge dam systems which control all the water entering the area from the neighboring North Sea.

In case you are having troubling understanding the scale of the dikes here, Delta Works has been described as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

19. Visit Ridderzaal

The Hall of Knights, also known as Ridderzaal in Dutch, is located in The Hague and is part of a court complex that dates from the medieval period.

Dating from the 13th century the hall backs on to a huge courtyard covered in cobbles and this is considered to be one of the centers of Dutch politics in the modern day as this is also the spot where the Opening of Parliament ceremony is conducted every year.

Now you can also visit the Hall of Knights and take a guided tour of one of the most important buildings in Dutch history.

20. Journey to Volendam

Situated in the north of the Netherlands is Volendam which makes a great day trip if you are also visiting neighboring Amsterdam.

A small fishing village, Volendam is full of traditional Dutch delights such as wooden houses, clogs, and scenic landscapes.

Volendam is so pretty that is was painted by greats like Renoir and Picasso and it has a dainty harbor that backs on to fisherman’s houses and more canals.

21. Enjoy the Houseboat Museum

The Houseboat Museum is one of the quirkiest museums in all of Amsterdam and sits on the water on one of its pretty canals.

The boat is called Hendrika Maria and is furnished to give you a glimpse of how people have lived on these houseboats over the years.

There are also displays of how life on houseboats has changed and pictures of the canals as they would have been in the days of old.

22. Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam

Oude Haven is the Old Harbor in Rotterdam which happens to be the oldest port in the Netherlands having first started operations in 1350. Here you will find a huge number of attractions such as charming eateries and cafes as well as a selection of ancient sailing ships that give a nod to maritime history of this city.

One of the other iconic structures located on the harbor is Het Witte Huis or the White House which has the claim to fame of having been the first skyscraper in Europe.

23. Travel to the town of Delft

The cute town of Delft is nestled in between The Hague and Rotterdam and makes a great day trip.

Some of the main sights here include the Town Hall as well as the famous Nieuwe Kerk or New Church which has a tall tower that you can climb and look out over Rotterdam and The Hague.

The church also houses a well known royal burial ground where the remains of Prince William of Orange are interred.

Other attractions include the Technology Museum and the Markt which is the main traditional market that opens every Thursday.

24. Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum

Venustempel Sex Museum in Amsterdam has the claim to fame of having been the first sex museum in the world.

The museum is located in a building that dates from the 17th century and has a wide display of sex related memorabilia.

Just some of this includes an array of erotic art work as well as photographs, sculptures, and other oddities like chastity belts.

The aim of the museum is to tell the story of how sexuality has evolved over the years and is a quirky stop off on a trip to Amsterdam.

25. Explore Kasteel De Haar

Close to the city of Utrecht sits Kasteel De Haar which is actually the largest fortification in the Netherlands.

The big draw here is the stunning castle which sprawls across a 250 acre park and originally would have dated from the 14th century.

The renovated version that now stands was built in 1892 and you will find a wide collection of paintings, textiles, antiques, and furniture.

25 Best Things to Do in The Netherlands:

• Explore the Canals of Amsterdam
• Visit Zaanse Schans
• Stroll around the Garden of Europe
• Admire Grote Kerk
• Visit the Rijksmuseum
• Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park
• Visit the Anne Frank Museum
• Enjoy the village of Marken
• Have fun at Efteling
• Take a trip to Madurodam
• Visit the Windmills of Kinderdijk
• Take in the art at the Van Gogh Museum
• Have a beer at the Heineken Experience
• Explore Mauritshuis
• Visit Historic Valkenburg
• Meet the animals at Artis Royal Zoo
• Sample some cheese in Edam
• Explore Zeeland’s Dikes
• Visit Ridderzaal
• Journey to Volendam
• Enjoy the Houseboat Museum
• Visit the Oude Haven in Rotterdam
• Travel to the town of Delft
• Enjoy Venustempel Sex Museum
• Explore Kasteel De Haar

Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

50 + Most Beautiful & Best Dutch Cities To Visit In The Netherlands

Are you searching for the best cities in The Netherlands? Then I can guarantee that you will find a city in The Netherlands to visit right here. I love my country because you can find anything from a walled city in The Netherlands to very modern ones: it all depends on your preferences. You can find these cute cities in The Netherlands throughout the country: from cities near The Hague to cities close to Amsterdam to amazing cities nearby Groningen and Maastricht.

Whether you’re looking to find places for your trip to the Holland region or are searching for The Netherlands best cities: I can guarantee that you will find the prettiest cities in The Netherlands here.

There are big Dutch cities and a few smaller Dutch cities to be found inside this article, and I’m sure about one thing: You will love travelling through The Netherlands with visiting them. These are all cities where you can spend easily one day in each of them when you visit The Netherlands. There is one  thing you need to know about The Netherlands , and that is that while we are very densely populated, we don’t have huge cities. The capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam, is the largest city in the country with around 820.000 inhabitants.

If you’re looking for star-shaped towns in The Netherlands, you will love to visit these  small Dutch towns . It is definitely possible for you to be also interested in beautiful villages, then these  Dutch villages  will be perfect for you to explore.

You can reach all of these Dutch cities with a train connection in The Netherlands. Our public transportation system in The Netherlands is very convenient and mostly runs on time. You can plan your train journeys via NS.nl/en or use their app. You can also use 9292.nl/en or their app to find out the quickest way to get somewhere in The Netherlands via every mode of transportation. Here can find more  apps that are useful when travelling through The Netherlands.

Best Dutch Cities to visit in The Netherlands

In this article, you will discover everything from a Dutch city south of Amsterdam to major cities in The Netherlands. And from  cities near Rotterdam  to exploring the region of Utrecht and its cities in this part of The Netherlands. I love how you can see a big difference between Amsterdam and the surrounding cities and the region of Drenthe and its cities in this part of the East of The Netherlands. Whether you’re looking for the best cities to visit in The Netherlands in summer or winter, you will find the most beautiful city in The Netherlands here.

1. Amersfoort

Province: Utrecht

Inhabitants:  141.000

Where to stay:  Hotel de Gaaper

One of the best-fortified cities you can visit in The Netherlands has to be Amersfoort. This romantic city in The Netherlands is home to beautiful city gates, countless picturesque alleys and tons of historical monuments. Amersfoort, The Netherlands, is the perfect city to visit if you’re looking for a bustling, charming, and at the same time a relatively quiet city centre. The city of Amersfoort is filled with cosy cafes and shops, outstanding museums and so much more. All of that makes Amersfoort one of the best cities to visit in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Amersfoort here.

Province:  Noord- Brabant

Inhabitants:  150.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Nassau Breda

The city of Breda, The Netherlands, is a great place to visit in the southern part of the country. Breda is most famous within The Netherlands for the connection with the Dutch Royal Family Oranje- Nassau, as the Earl of Nassau ruled people from Breda from 1403 and the prince of Oranje- Nassau from 1538. Nowadays, Baron of Breda is one of the titles that the King or Queen of The Netherlands has. But, Breda is not just great to visit because of the connection to the Dutch Royals.

Breda is a fantastic home to fortifications, castles, big parks and incredibly cosy neighbourhoods. One of the things I recommend you to do in Breda is visit the Ginneken neighbourhood and explore one of the largest courtyards in The Netherlands: Begijnhof. As Breda is so beautiful and filled with things to do, it is, in my opinion, one of the best cities in The Netherlands.

3. Den Bosch

Inhabitants:  110.000

Where to stay:  Uylenhof Hotel

One of the highlights of your visit to the Noord- Brabant province is a visit to Den Bosch, The Netherlands. This city in the Southern region of The Netherlands is one of the best places to experience the Burgundian feeling. The Netherlands is filled with different regions, and subcultures and this part of Brabant is a great place to experience a part of it. Den Bosch is filled with beautiful buildings and streets and home to great local foods and more. Combine the canals and stunning sights, and you will get one of the most beautiful cities in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Den Bosch here.

4. Schiedam

Province:  Zuid- Holland

Inhabitants:  79.000

Where to stay:  B&B Museumkwartier Schiedam

The beautiful city of Schiedam, The Netherlands, is famous for having the tallest traditional Dutch windmills globally as they boast a height of several tens of metres. Those windmills were used to grind ingredients to create the Dutch alcohol called Jenever, a forerunner of English gin. Besides admiring these impressive Dutch windmills in Schiedam, you can wander along the cosy canals and historic buildings. And, you must visit the Jenevermuseum in Schiedam to learn more about this traditional Dutch drink. It’s definitely one of the beautiful cities in The Netherlands you should travel to.

Province:  Drenthe

Inhabitants:  68.000

Where to stay:  City Hotel de Jonge

The capital of the Drenthe province is Assen, The Netherlands. In my opinion, Assen is a very underrated city in The Netherlands, but that counts for the entire eastern part of the country. It is one of the youngest official cities in The Netherlands as it only obtained city rights in 1809, and it became the province’s capital in 1814. One of the best things to do in Assen is to bring a visit to the  Drents Museum , which is home to unique archaeological and art exhibitions. I can also highly recommend you to walk around in Assen and explore the centre, around places such as Brink and Markt. Even though Assen isn’t on most people’s travel list, I can guarantee that it is one of the cities in The Netherlands you have to visit.

Inhabitants:  73.000

Where to stay:  B&B De Kamer Hiernaast

Gouda, The Netherlands, is the most famous city for Dutch cheese in the country as it is the home of one of the reenactments of  cheese markets in The Netherlands.  But, there’s more to Gouda than just cheese. Gouda is one of the many cities in The Netherlands filled with canals, cosy squares and friendly people. One of the things you have to do in Gouda is to explore the canals by  sup board from Jabasup  (if you want to reserve a sup board in the centre of Gouda, you can reserve one via the contact button). It’s always nice to explore a city and gain a different perspective, which is exactly what a tour through the canals of Gouda will do. The Netherlands is filled with beautiful cities, and Gouda is definitely one of them.

Find a full article on cheese markets in The Netherlands here.

7. Groningen

Province:  Groningen

Inhabitants:  203.000

Where to stay:  The Market Hotel

One of the best destinations to visit in the Groningen region is the city of Groningen. Groningen city is the capital of the Groningen province and a great place to visit and experience what the North of The Netherlands has to offer. Groningen, The Netherlands, is home to one of the biggest bars in Europe, tons of canals, cool festivals (during summer and winter) and amazing museums. Not to mention that the people that live in Groningen are pretty cool too. In my humble opinion, Groningen might just be the best Dutch city to visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Groningen here.

8. Appingedam

Inhabitants:  11.000

Where to stay:  De vijgenhof

Appingedam, The Netherlands, is one of the few places in the country home to ‘Hangende Keukens’, or hanging kitchens. These are extensions of houses that are hanging above a river and are a beautiful sight to see. But, the city of Appingedam has more to offer than just checking out these magnificent pieces of work from the outside. One of the things you need to do in Appingedam is visit  Museum Mohlmann , which is found on the outskirts of the town inside a stunning building. It’s one of the best locations in the Groningen province to witness great art. You can also visit one of the  largest churches in Groningen  and admire its beauty. The Groningen province is filled with cities to explore in this part of The Netherlands, and Appingedam is one of them.

Inhabitants:  103.000

Where to stay:  Hotel de Emauspoort

One of the most famous places to visit in The Netherlands is the city of Delft, mainly renowned for its Delfts Blauw (Delfts Blue). Even though it has a bit of international fame, this city isn’t overrun with tourists. But instead, Delft is home to a calm and cosy atmosphere, stunning buildings and streets and the hometown of Vermeer. Delft, The Netherlands, has so much to offer: from its museum to witnessing the creation of Delfts Blue to sitting down at one of the many nice cafes. It’s simply incredible and one of the medieval cities in The Netherlands to visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Delft here.

10. Rotterdam

Inhabitants:  587.000

Where to stay:  Le Marin Boutique Hotel

One of the most modern cities in The Netherlands is the harbour city of Rotterdam. Rotterdam is everything that you could wish for in a big Dutch city: it’s international, home to incredible restaurants, filled with art and architecture, as well historic buildings. Although Rotterdam, The Netherlands, was the city that was most heavily bombed during the Second World War, it has always been a resilient place due to its people, and it still is today. Rotterdam is a beautiful city that will surprise you and give you a completely different idea of what The Netherlands offers. All of that makes Rotterdam one of the best places in The Netherlands to visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Rotterdam here.

11. Den Haag

Inhabitants:  547.000

Where to stay:  The Collector Hotel

The city of The Hague, or Den Haag in Dutch, is most known for being the home of the Dutch parliament and the Peace Palace. This means that Den Haag is one of the most important political cities in The Netherlands. But, before you think that this city is a little bit boring to visit, Den Haag has so many things to offer. The Hague is a vibrant city that is home to one of Europe biggest markets:  De Haagse Markt , where you can buy incredible produce and great food. And, this city nearby Rotterdam is also great for art lovers, as the  Kunstmuseum Den Haag  is housed here. Den Haag, The Netherlands, is filled with fascinating museums, amazing history and great places to visit. Den Haag is definitely one of the best cities in The Netherlands to travel to.

Province:  Flevoland

Inhabitants:  214.000

Where to stay:  Best Western Plus Plaza Almere

One of the youngest Dutch cities in The Netherlands is Almere. Almere used to have a reputation of it not being a fun city to visit for a day trip in The Netherlands, but that is slowly changing. Because while Almere is a young city, it is nowadays a bustling one that focuses on embracing the modern part of the city, which includes a lot of cool Dutch architecture and street art. That’s why one of the things I recommend you to do in Almere is to go on an architecture bike tour through the city and rent a bike. You can rent a bike at the VVV of Almere, the local tourist office of Almere, The Netherlands.

Inhabitants:  125.000

Where to stay:  De Doelen

Leiden, The Netherlands, is one of the prettiest Dutch cities you can find in the country. It’s one of those cities in The Netherlands that feels like a village, as it is so cosy. But, it’s definitely a city as there are lots of things to do in Leiden. Maybe you want to explore the breathtaking monuments in the city, such as the Burcht van Leiden, which is a castle and fortress that overlooks the city centre dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

But that’s not all this city in the Zuid- Holland province has to offer, because it is filled with charming streets and picturesque canals, but also home to some of the most impressive museums in The Netherlands. If you’re interested in archaeology, the  Rijksmuseum van Oudheden  is perfect for visiting or visit the Museum De Lakenhal, which is the  art museum of Leiden . It’s also one of the cities you can find near Amsterdam.

14. Dordrecht

Inhabitants:  119.000

Where to stay:  Heer&Meester Bed&Breakfast

A great city to visit in the Zuid (South)- Holland province is Dordrecht, The Netherlands. This city is one of the oldest places in the Holland region and filled with small cobblestoned streets and alleys, which hide little cafes and the cutest local shops. You will admire endless beautiful buildings, canal views and even witness a place where three big Dutch rivers come together. But it gets better. Because not only is Dordrecht a bustling city, but nowhere near crowded; it is also located nearby one of the most beautiful nature reserves in The Netherlands. That, and more, makes Dordrecht one of the nice cities in the Holland region that you must visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Dordrecht here.

15. Tilburg

Inhabitants:  198.000

Where to stay:  ROOTS Tiny House

Tilburg is one of the upcoming cities in The Netherlands, and I love it. Years back, Tilburg wasn’t a city that many people would want to visit on a day trip, but that has changed immensely. Nowadays, Tilburg is the perfect location to discover a modern yet historic city and all its quirks. Imagine amazing street art, industrial buildings transformed into the coolest shops and restaurants and fun museums. One of the best things to do in Tilburg is to visit the Spoorzone, which is the former workplace for the Dutch National Railways and very cool to see for cultural and relaxing purposes. This kind of Dutch places are generally filled with cosy cafes and so much more.

16. Bergen op Zoom

Inhabitants:  53.000

Where to stay:  Grand Hotel en Résidence De Draak

The medieval city of Bergen op Zoom, The Netherlands, is one of the best destinations to visit in the South West. Bergen op Zoom is home to one of the largest city palaces in all of Europe and tons of breathtaking buildings. Beyond exploring those buildings, local shops and the city palace, Bergen op Zoom is also a great place to explore the city from under the ground. There’s a whole gateway of a river under the city, which used to be the way to get rid of sewage, rainwater, etc. Don’t worry, it doesn’t smell anymore, but it sure as hell is a fascinating place to visit. Bergen op Zoom is a medieval and walled city in The Netherlands that is worth a visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Bergen op Zoom here.

17. Eindhoven

Inhabitants:  235.000

Where to stay:   cafe ‘t Vonderke

One of the most modern Dutch cities has to be Eindhoven, The Netherlands. This absolute gem of a city is found in the South of The Netherlands and is perfect to visit for any street art, industrial and architecture lover. This industrial city in The Netherlands will surprise you more with every step you take. Maybe you want to explore cool art galleries in Eindhoven or admire one of The Netherlands most picturesque industrial complexes. One thing is for sure, Eindhoven is a great place to travel to for anyone. The province of Noord (North)- Brabant is filled with cities, and it’s a part of The Netherlands that you certainly want to explore.

Find a full article on what to do in Eindhoven here.

18. Harderwijk

Province:  Gelderland

Inhabitants:  47.000

Where to stay:  B&B de Stadstuin

One of the cities that was part of the Hanseatic League is Harderwijk, The Netherlands. This mesmerising Dutch city in the Gelderland province is an absolute dream. It is home to beautiful city gates, endless adorable streets and corners, and very old shops. There are museums to explore in Harderwijk, and as the city is located on the shores of one of the many lakes we have in The Netherlands, you can also explore its region by boat or sup. Whatever your interests might be, there’s something incredible to do in Harderwijk for everyone. Harderwijk might not be the best city in The Netherlands for many people, but its gorgeous city centre definitely makes it a competitor.

Find a full article on what to do in Harderwijk here.

19. Middelburg

Province:  Zeeland

Inhabitants:  42.000

Where to stay:  Slapen bij Scherp

One of the best destinations you can visit in the Zeeland province is the city of Middelburg, The Netherlands. This is a gorgeous city in the South of The Netherlands is an absolute dream to visit. Explore the small alleys that will lead you into the most magical corners and enjoy the traditional foods from the region. Middelburg is fantastic to visit for anyone interested in finding small and cosy shops and cafes, as well as plenty of other things to do. If you’re looking for a city in The Netherlands with canals, then Middelburg is also a great pick.

Find a full article on what to do in Middelburg here.

20. Culemborg

Inhabitants:  28.000

Where to stay: Ruim familiehuis vlakbij treinstation

The city of Culemborg, The Netherlands, is home to the traditional three: Picturesque streets, a city wall and a Dutch windmill. It is the perfect small city in The Netherlands to visit if you’re interested in admiring a place that isn’t overrun by tourists but one that just gets a few. It’s a cosy city that is home to some very interesting museums and monuments. One of the best things to do in Culemborg is visit the  Elisabeth Weeshuismuseum or Elisabeth orphanage museum . It was built with the money from Elisabeth, who was a countess, after she died. It was first taken into use in 1560, and the last orphan only left the building in 1952. As Culemborg is cosy and on the smaller side, it’s one of the best cities to live in The Netherlands.

Province:  Noord- Holland

Inhabitants:  52.000

Where to stay:  Hotel de Magneet

Hoorn is found at the shores of the Markermeer lake, which is one of the largest lakes in The Netherlands. It is one of the many historic cities you can find all over the country and is perfect for exploring. Maybe you want to admire the old buildings along the harbour of Hoorn, explore one of the many museums or witness a beautiful sunset over the Markermeer. Hoorn, The Netherlands, is the perfect city to travel to and one of the places to visit in Noord (North)- Holland.

Find a full article on what to do in Hoorn here.

Province:  Limburg

Where to stay:  BnB prins Hendrik Venlo

In the Northern part of the Limburg province, you can find the city of Venlo, The Netherlands. Venlo is one of the heavily bombed cities during the Second World War, which meant that the loss of historical buildings has been immense. But, Venlo is making the most of what it has as it is nowadays a fun and bustling city in the Limburg province to visit. The main historical buildings in Venlo can be found around Kwartelenmarkt, Wijngaardstraat, Vleesstraat and Lomstraat, but there are more things to see and do in Venlo. One of the best things to do in Venlo is to visit the local shops that it is filled with everything from small book stores to local boutiques. And, don’t forget to visit the  Limburgs Museum  either, to learn more about the people in Limburg. You will love exploring one of the top cities in The Netherlands.

23. Alkmaar

Inhabitants:  90.000

Where to stay:  Slapen bij hofman

Alkmaar is one of the cities in The Netherlands that is home to a  Dutch cheese market . And, while admiring the Dutch tradition of this market is one of the top things to do in Alkmaar, the city is home to so much more. You can find one of the best ice cream shops in The Netherlands in Alkmaar, go on a beautiful canal tour to explore the city from the water and wander its endless picturesque streets where you can find some of the coolest local shops in the country. Alkmaar, The Netherlands, is truly such a great place to visit. It’s one of the cities in the Holland region that I think you have to visit.

Find a full article on what to do in Alkmaar here.

24. Roermond

Inhabitants:  41.000

Where to stay:  De Pastorie Bed & Breakfast

The city of Roermond is found in the middle of the Limburg province and is mainly famous for being the home of a big designer outlet, but the city has so much more to offer than that. Roermond was a Hanseatic city in the Late Middle Ages and one of the four capitals of the Duchy of Gelre, which all left many trails behind. Roermond, The Netherlands, is not only stuffed with historic buildings, but it is also home to amazing museums, such as the  Cuypershuis  dedicated to architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum and Amsterdam Central train station. The Limburg region is filled with cities, and this part of The Netherlands is worth travelling to.

25. Franeker

Province:  Friesland

Inhabitants:  12.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Restaurant De Stadsherberg

If there is one thing you need to see in The Netherlands, then it is Franeker and one of the highlights of this city. As Franeker is one of the eleven historic cities in the Friesland region, it is an absolute sight to behold. Admire the canals, the impressive buildings, and most of all: the  worlds oldest working planetarium  at the Eise Eisinga Museum. Franeker, The Netherlands, also has a lot to offer beyond the planetarium, but visiting this museum in Franeker is an absolute must-do. Franeker is one of the best cities in The Netherlands, and I think you will love it too.

Find a full article on more places to visit in Friesland here.

Province:  Overijssel

Inhabitants:  120.000

Where to stay:  De Pelsertoren

Zwolle, The Netherlands, is one of the cities you cannot miss on your vacation in the East of The Netherlands. Not only can you explore one of The Netherlands best art museums, Museum De Fundatie, but you can also discover a beautiful Dutch library in Zwolle. Zwolle is a great city to visit for anyone interested in seeing art, history and another stunning Dutch city that brings you back in time. Zwolle is magical and filled with so many things to do that it is one of the best cities to visit in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Zwolle here.

27. Enschede

Inhabitants:  157.000

Where to stay:  The Residence

The capital of the Overijssel province, and the main city in the Twente region, is the city of Enschede, The Netherlands. It is one of the best cities in The Netherlands to visit, especially if you’re looking for a destination that isn’t on most people’s itinerary. Enschede is cosy, modern, but also historic. The main square, Oude Markt, in the city centre is the perfect location for a relaxing drink, with some people watching on the side. Enschede is one of the industrial cities in The Netherlands that you cannot miss out on. One of the things you need to do in Enschede is to visit Museum Twente. I can also highly recommend you to see the Abraham Ledeboerpark in Enschede and the Arboretum Poort Bulten if you want to discover some nature and parks in Enschede.

28. Utrecht

Province:  Utrecht

Inhabitants:  357.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Beijers

One of the biggest cities in The Netherlands in Utrecht. The city of Utrecht is the capital of the Utrecht region and found in the centre of The Netherlands. It’s home to endless canals, a fantastic atmosphere and plenty of things to do. I mainly love Utrecht, The Netherlands, because you can find the perfect combination of bustling and calm here. From wandering from one independent shop to the next to  canoeing or renting a boat to explore the canals of Utrecht : There’s so much to do and see in Utrecht. Utrecht is one of the more famous cities in The Netherlands, but definitely not crowded.

29. Harlingen

Inhabitants:  15.000

Where to stay:  Slapen in een Trechter

The city of Harlingen is one of the eleven cities in the Friesland region. It is found at the shores of the Wadden Sea Unesco World Heritage site, plus it’s a great gateway to some of our beautiful Dutch islands in the North of The Netherlands. Harlingen, The Netherlands, is home to the  largest fleet of old ships in the country , and they will take you onto the Wadden Sea to explore the area. It’s truly a once in a lifetime trip. But, that’s not all there is to do in Harlingen; There are small museums, seal tours, and so much more. The Friesland region is filled with these beautiful cities, which is why I think you will love visiting this part of The Netherlands.

30. Valkenburg

Inhabitants:  10.000

Where to stay:  Onder de Linde B&B

Valkenburg, The Netherlands, is one of the most visited places in the Limburg province but for a perfect reason. Not only is Valkenburg home to one of  The Netherlands most beautiful castle ruins , which gives you a magical view of the town and its surroundings, but it’s also the place to be for one of the best Christmas markets in The Netherlands. Whether you’re thinking of visiting Valkenburg in winter or during summer, you’ll always be surprised by what this small Dutch city in Limburg has to offer. The Netherlands has so many cities to explore, but Valkenburg is definitely worth visiting.

Where to stay:  Hotel Katoen

Goes, The Netherlands, is an absolute dream to visit, and you cannot miss out on your Zeeland itinerary. Goes is everything you can wish for: it’s filled with historic buildings, old harbours, picturesque streets, incredible galleries and cosy cafes. One of the things you have to do in Goes is visiting  Historisch Museum De Bevelanden , a museum in Goes that covers the history and culture of the Dutch islands of Noord- Beveland and Zuid- Beveland. Don’t forget to enjoy the city harbour (stadshaven) in Goes either, shown in the photo below. It’s one of The Netherlands best cities to visit.

32. Leeuwarden

Inhabitants:  93.000

Where to stay:  Boutique Hotel Catshuis

Leeuwarden, The Netherlands, is the capital of the Friesland province located in the North of the country. The city of Leeuwarden is one of the best places to visit in Friesland for a few very simple reasons. It is home to endless canals, museums such as the Fries Museum about the Friesland province, and tons more sights. Leeuwarden is a very calm city that will surprise you more with every corner you’re turning. Leeuwarden is most certainly one of the cities you have to see in The Netherlands.

33. Deventer

Inhabitants:  81.000

Where to stay:  Grand Boutique Hotel-Restaurant Huis Vermeer

One of the most beautiful Hanseatic cities in The Netherlands is Deventer. This spectacular city in the East of The Netherlands is home to some of the most unique shops in the entire country. But not just that, Deventer is also the perfect place to get lost in the charming and endless cobblestone streets. Deventer, The Netherlands, is genuinely one of the most magical places to visit in the country. Deventer is found in the Overijssel province and one of the cities to visit in this part of The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Deventer here.

Where to stay:  Hotel Dockum

Dokkum, The Netherlands, is one of the eleven Frisian cities and a great destination to explore in the country’s northern parts. It’s a calm and beautiful city in Friesland and known for having a cosy city centre, incredible sights and the drink ‘Dokkumer Koffie’. This coffee is a mix of coffee, whipped cream and the Frisian/Gronings alcoholic drink called Beerenburg. You drink this coffee when the whipped cream is still on top of it, without stirring. You can drink the Dokkumer coffee at cafes such as Lekkernij Koffie En Lunch.

One of the other things you need to do in Dokkum is to walk through the city centre and admire the buildings, such as the city hall (Stadhuis in Dutch). As well as the windmills on the ramparts of Dokkum and admire the weighing buildings (waag), which was built in 1754, precisely 1000 years after Dokkum was found. I find Dokkum an absolute must-see if you’re looking for cities in The Netherlands to travel to.

35. Bolsward

Where to stay:  Het Weeshuis

The Frisian city of Bolsward is one of the eleven cities you can find in this Northern Dutch province. Bolsward, The Netherlands, is a small city but definitely worth a visit. You can walk along the cosy canals, explore one of the local shops and even go on a canal tour to get a different perspective. But there is even more to do in Bolsward, such as visiting a beer brewery, church ruins and the city hall. It’s one of the best places to visit in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Bolsward here.

36. Zutphen

Inhabitants:  39.000

Where to stay:  Broederenklooster

What I love about the city of Zutphen, The Netherlands, is that it is home to one of the few chained medieval libraries left in the world. But that’s not everything this beautiful Dutch city in Gelderland has to offer. You can wander along the charming cobblestoned streets, admire the stunning buildings and enjoy everything that Zutphen has to offer: from fortifications to local shops to museums to some of the best coffee in The Netherlands. Zutphen is one of the many cool cities we have in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Zutphen here.

Inhabitants:  1.610

Where to stay:  Auberge de Campveerse Toren

One of the smaller cities in The Netherlands is Veere. This magical Dutch city is found in the South of The Netherlands. It is, beyond being absolutely adorable, home to some fascinating Scottish and Dutch history, which can still be seen today. One of the best things to do in Veere, The Netherlands, is to visit  Museum Veere . In this museum in the Zeeland province, you will discover everything about the relations of Scotland and Veere, as well as explore the history of Veere. You can easily explore everything that Veere has to offer, including its nearby lake on a boat tour and a few other activities in a day. All of that makes Veere one of the best cities in The Netherlands.

Inhabitants:  36.000

Where to stay:  De Stadsboerderij

Kampen, The Netherlands, is one of the amazing places to visit in the Overijssel province. It is one of the cities in The Netherlands that was part of the Hanseatic League, a group of cities that traded together from the Baltics to The Netherlands and beyond. This is one of the reasons why Kampen looks the way it does today: filled with beautiful buildings and cosy streets. One of the things you have to do in Kampen is to walk around the town and admire city gates, such as Koornmarktspoort, Broederpoort and Cellebroederspoort. You will also love visiting Stedelijk Museum Kampen, as well as Ikonenmuseum Kampen. It’s definitely one of the beautiful, old cities in The Netherlands.

39. Sittard

Inhabitants:  37.000

Where to stay:  Hotel De Limbourg

One of the oldest cities in the Limburg region, and The Netherlands, in Sittard. This city is filled with incredible monuments, such as dozens of monasteries, amazing ramparts and houses. Sittard has often been a city that not many Dutch people tend to visit, which is a shame, but that also means that there is more space for you to explore this great city in the Limburg region. Sittard, The Netherlands, is a great city to discover. One of the things I would recommend you to do in Sittard is to visit Museum De Domijnen to learn more about Sittard and its surroundings via art and history. Sittard is a beautiful historic Dutch city that deserves a visit.

40. Vlissingen

Inhabitants:  33.000

Where to stay:  B&B Zeeuws genoegen

One of my most favourite cities is Vlissingen, The Netherlands. This city that is found in the Zeeland province is an absolute joy to visit. Vlissingen is cosy but also has an industrial and modern vibe. Whether you want to enjoy some street art in Vlissingen or want to admire the hundreds of years old buildings, this place is perfect for it. One of the things I recommend you to do in Vlissingen is visit Panorama Walcheren to see incredibly long (and beautiful paintings). Besides that,  Zeeuw Maritiem MuZeeum  is also fantastic to visit in Vlissingen. The Zeeland province is filled with amazing cities to visit and offers the best of the South of The Netherlands.

41. Roosendaal

Inhabitants:  67.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Tongerlo

Roosendaal is one of those cities that people tend to skip when they visit The Netherlands. Now, I can’t blame anyone for that because even Dutch people tend to do that. One of the things I would recommend you to do in Roosendaal, The Netherlands, is to visit the historic area around the Markt. But there is more to see as Roosendaal is also filled with cool museums. Visit the Tongerlohuys in Roosendaal, for instance, which tells you the story about Roosendaal through five different perspectives. While it’s not one of the major Dutch cities in the country, it is definitely bustling.

42. Maastricht

Where to stay:  Hotel Britannique

Whether Maastricht, The Netherlands, or Nijmegen is the oldest city in the country is an endless argument, but both are amazing to visit. Maastricht is the best city in the south of The Netherlands to explore the traditional Burgundian lifestyle. Maastricht is home to amazing, picturesque neighbourhoods with hundreds of monumental buildings and interesting museums, incredible local food, and so much more. Visiting Maastricht feels like you’re in a completely different country and helps you remember how diverse this tiny country actually is. Maastricht is the perfect example to discover what you can see in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Maastricht here.

43. Nijmegen

Inhabitants: 177.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Karel

Nijmegen, The Netherlands, is the oldest city in the country: although it is always a battle between Maastricht and Nijmegen. It is located on the edge of one of the largest rivers in The Netherlands, which means you can find amazing river beaches here to enjoy on a hot summer day as well. Besides the fact that Nijmegen is an old Dutch city, it is also home to the oldest and one of the longest shopping streets in The Netherlands. Plus, the city is filled with fascinating museums, bustling cafes and other amazing things to do. The Gelderland province is filled with unique cities, so I would definitely recommend you to visit this area in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on what to do in Nijmegen here.

Inhabitants:  160.000

Where to stay:  Hotel Molendal

One of The Netherlands greenest cities has to be Arnhem. This charming Dutch city is found in the Gelderland region and surrounded by big estates and nature reserves. Arnhem was the location of one of the most talked-about battles during the Second World War, which means that there is plenty of history to explore. But, you can also enjoy fantastic street art, excellent local shops, a beautiful view from the main church and plenty of other things in Arnhem, The Netherlands. Arnhem is one of The Netherlands relatively big cities, but it still feels small and cosy.

Find a full article on what to do in Arnhem here.

45. Zierikzee

Where to stay:  de Zeeuwse Hemel

The incredible city of Zierikzee, The Netherlands, is one of the best places to visit in the country’s southwestern part. Not only is Zierikzee absolutely stuffed with monuments, such as old city gates, but it is also found in the most beautiful region of the Zeeland province. One of the things you need to do in Zierikzee is visit the Gravesteen building, a brick house that an Earl owned, and it is also the oldest prison in Zeeland. Tours through this remarkable building in Zeeland starts every Wednesday and Saturday at 14:30 at the Stadhuismuseum. The Stadhuismuseum itself is also definitely worth a visit. I think it is one of the nicest cities in The Netherlands.

Where to stay:  Stadslogement By Peek

Sneek, The Netherlands, is one of the eleven official cities that you can find in the province of Friesland. These eleven are historical, medieval trading cities in the North of The Netherlands and are a sight to behold. Sneek is most famous for its watergate (waterpoort in Dutch), an old monument that stands in the middle of the centre of Sneek. Besides that, you will find plenty of more things to see and do in Sneek. One of the things I recommend you do in  Sneek is rent a boat or a canoe.  You can hire them between April and October, and you can book via their website or sent them an email for any questions you might have. It’s definitely one of the most charming cities in The Netherlands.

Find a full article on more destinations to visit in Friesland here.

Inhabitants:  69.000

Where to stay:  de Opkamer

Another stunning city in the East is Almelo, The Netherlands. Walking through Almelo is interesting, as it boasts many different sorts of architecture and in the centre of the town you can even find a big estate, which is impressive. You cannot visit Huize Almelo itself, but you can discover the forests of this beautiful estate in the East of The Netherlands. Another thing I recommend you to do in Almelo is to visit  Stadsmuseum Almelo  to explore the history of Almelo and how it has evolved, as well as witnessing interesting changing exhibitions. Because Almelo is relatively small and cosy, I find it’s one of the best cities in The Netherlands to live in.

48. Den Helder

Where to stay:  Forest Hotel

People often only head to the city of Den Helder, The Netherlands, to take the boat to the island of Texel. And that is a true shame. Den Helder used to be a city with a bad reputation due to crime, amongst other things. But, nowadays, Den Helder is blooming again, and it’s great. Den Helder is home to the Dutch navy and has always been an important maritime city in The Netherlands. One of the things you need to do in Den Helder is visit the old shipyard of Willemsoord, which is filled with unique monuments, local shops, and so much more. I can also recommend you to visit fortresses in Den Helder that belong to the  defence line of Den Helder , which was expanded to its current size during the time of the French occupation in The Netherlands. If you visit Noord (North)- Holland and want to visit cities in The Netherlands, Den Helder is an excellent option.

49. Doesburg

Where to stay:  B&B Het Atelier

If you ask me what one of the most fairytale-like cities in The Netherlands is, I will probably answer with Doesburg. Doesburg, The Netherlands, is one of the many Hanseatic cities that we have in the country. This means it is filled with amazing buildings and so many fun things to do. One of the things you need to do in Doesburg is visit cafe Stadsbierhuys De Waag, which is said to be the oldest (or the second) oldest catering facility in The Netherlands as it has existed since somewhere in the 15th century. I can also recommend you visit Doesburgsche Mosterd- en Azijnfabriek, as Doesburg is very famous for its mustard amongst other delicious local goods. I find Doesburg one of the best cities to visit in The Netherlands in spring, but it is also fantastic to see during any other time of the year.

50. Apeldoorn

Inhabitants:  137.000

Where to stay:  Het Oude Kantongerecht

Apeldoorn, The Netherlands, is one of the greenest cities in The Netherlands. Apeldoorn is filled with city parks, typical houses from the city and not many high buildings. While it’s a moderately sized city in Gelderland, most parts of it feels like a village. One of the things you need to do in Apeldoorn is to visit Natuurpark Berg & Bos, as well as visiting  Paleis Het Loo . Paleis Het Loo is one of the largest Royal palaces we have in The Netherlands and is breathtaking, so are its gardens. When you’re walking through the gardens, it feels like you’ve just entered an old fairy tale. Apeldoorn is one of the larger cities in The Netherlands, but still nothing major.

51. Amsterdam

Inhabitants:  821.000

Where to stay:  The Student Hotel Amsterdam West

The Netherlands most popular city to visit is, without a doubt, Amsterdam. Every year the capital of The Netherlands gets millions of visitors, while it’s home to not even a million people. This means that a part of Amsterdam, mainly the extreme city centre, is mostly filled with tourists. However, luckily Amsterdam has more to offer than trying to worm your way through the crowds. The city of Amsterdam exists out of countless neighbourhoods that all have something else to offer, and in most of them, you don’t find many visitors, and that’s where you will find the city’s real charm. Amsterdam, The Netherlands, is a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re looking to visit the largest city in the country and want to see for yourself what all the fuss is about. Amsterdam is one of the most popular cities in The Netherlands, but also for a reason.

Find a full article on what to do in Amsterdam here.

52. Helmond

Inhabitants:  91.000

Where to stay:  Villa Rubenshof

You probably are aware of the existence of the cube houses in Rotterdam, but did you know that they were first made in the city of Helmond, The Netherlands? These were also designed by architect Piet Blom and can be found at Piet Blomplein in Helmond. One of the other things to do in Helmond is to visit  Castle Helmond  to explore the largest moated castle in The Netherlands and why it was crucial for Helmond. Helmond is a city that is actually very underrated but is filled with great places to visit. And all of that is why I think it’s one of the best cities in The Netherlands.

53. Heerlen

Inhabitants:  86.000

Where to stay:  Stadshotel Botterweck

Heerlen, The Netherlands, is one of the best places to visit in the country to explore amazing street art. It seems like every corner of the city is filled with incredible art that will blow your mind. Heerlen is a city that feels relatively young but is actually a lot older than you might think since the Romans settled here roughly 2000 years ago. One of the things you need to do in Heerlen is to visit the  Thermenmuseum , which tells you about Heerlen during the Roman Empire. While Heerlen is not one of the big cities in The Netherlands, it is actually a great place to travel to.

54. Enkhuizen

Province: Noord- Holland 

Inhabitants: 18.000

Where to stay:  Herberg de Compagnie

Another great city to visit is Enkhuizen. Enkhuizen, The Netherlands, is located on the shores of one of the country’s biggest lakes: IJsselmeer. This historic Dutch city is the perfect combination of calm and bustling at the same time. It is home to one of The Netherlands most famous tourist attractions: the open-air museum Zuiderzeemuseum, which showcases the life of people around the former Zuiderzee (sea that is now turned into the Markermeer and IJsselmeer lakes). If you’re not interested in getting an insight into these small Dutch cultures, there is still plenty to see and explore in Enkhuizen. Admire the beautiful buildings, wander through its charming streets and sit down at one of the many cosy Dutch cafes. Enkhuizen is one of the cities in the Holland region, The Netherlands, that you cannot miss out on.

Find a full article on what to do in Enkhuizen here.

55. Haarlem

Where to stay:  the niu Dairy

The city of Haarlem, The Netherlands, is another charming Dutch city that you can find in this beautiful country. It is located in the western part of The Netherlands and filled with everything that you’re looking for in a city when you visit. In Haarlem, you can find picturesque canals, amazing buildings, local shops and cafes, and so much more. Maybe you want to visit one of The Netherlands most exciting art museums or simply want to wander around and enjoy the city. Whatever you want to see in Haarlem, there is something cool to do for everyone. Haarlem is one of the main cities in The Netherlands that everyone knows, but that isn’t overrun.

Find a full article on what to do in Haarlem here.

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I hope you will enjoy visiting the best cities in The Netherlands and that you’ve enjoyed exploring what kind of cities there are in The Netherlands. If you had the question ‘how many cities are there in The Netherlands?’, then I won’t be able to answer that. The reason? Many places with city rights (due to history) in this country are tiny and a part of either my village or small town article. The exact number of cities depends on the way you measure a city.

Whether you’re walking through the biggest cities in The Netherlands or a smaller one, I love how the vibes are immaculate no matter where you are. You could be exploring Zuid (South)- Holland and its cities in this part of The Netherlands or one of the richest cities in The Netherlands, and it’s all great. Although we don’t have really rich cities in this country, there are more small towns and small villages with a higher modal income than most people in cities.

Anyway, I hope you will enjoy spending some time in whichever city has your preference: from the cheapest cities in The Netherlands to cities with canals in The Netherlands. And whether you want to explore  Amsterdam and nearby cities  or  cities near Utrecht , there is something to enjoy for you here. Share this post!

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15 Best Cities In The Netherlands To Visit Besides Amsterdam

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While Amsterdam’s a great place to visit, there is much more to the Netherlands than its capital city. Here is a list of the best cities in the Netherlands to visit besides Amsterdam.

Born and raised in the Netherlands, I definitely have a soft spot for the country. I feel very proud to call myself Dutch, and ever since moving to the UK, I’ve started to appreciate my country even more. The Netherlands has a unique culture, stunning architecture, and some fantastic cities to visit.

So next time you’re visiting, why not add some of these great cities in the Netherlands to your itinerary?

Even though I’ve been to quite a few cities in my home country myself, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to add their favourite Dutch city into the mix. 

Best Cities To Visit In The Netherlands

The Netherlands isn’t very big, but it’s packed with fantastic places to visit. And while Amsterdam is one of those “bucket-list” destinations for many, I think you should consider adding some other Dutch cities to your trip. So, let’s take a look at what my fellow travel bloggers and I recommend!

1. Eindhoven

I grew up in a small village near Eindhoven, so this city is close to my heart. It’s the design capital of the Netherlands and hosts the annual Dutch Design Week, where you can find exhibitions scattered across the city centre. Eindhoven is also home to the annual light festival, Glow, where the city is covered in light art.

But even when visiting outside of these events, there are still many awesome things to do in Eindhoven . The Van Abbe museum was the first public museums for contemporary art in Europe and offers a lovely morning of enjoying art. If you’re not that much into art, you can also opt for the DAF museum or the Phillips museum.

Another area in Eindhoven that you should not miss out on is Strijp-S. This neighbourhood was known as the “forbidden city”, as it was the industry park owned by Phillips – nobody except employees was allowed inside. Nowadays, it is the creative heart of Eindhoven. Filled with hip eateries, cool startup companies, and independent shops, it’s a real treat to explore.

2. Maastricht

Being the oldest city in the Netherlands, Maastricht has some of the country’s best picturesque streets and castle ruins. The city is known for its Burgundian lifestyle, and the local cuisine is top-notch. While going on a Maastricht day trip is a great idea, I highly recommend going for at least a weekend.

Maastricht is gorgeous. The cobblestoned streets and lovely buildings are a photography lovers’ dream. But while walking through the streets is a treat in itself, one place you should add to your itinerary is the Dominicanen Book Store. This old church is transformed into a bookstore and cafe – it’s stunning!

If you’re visiting in spring or summer, make sure to stop by the St. Jan Church on Vrijthof. You can climb the tower for one of the best views of the city here for €2,50.

You can find more hints that Maastricht is indeed the oldest city in the Netherlands in the City Park. It includes remains of the ancient city wall and the Helpoort, the oldest gate in the country (dating back to 1229). 

3. Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a bit like Amsterdam’s little sister. Being the second biggest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam makes for a perfect day trip from the capital. While a large part of the city was destroyed during the Second World War, Rotterdam was rebuilt into a hub for modern architecture. 

Spending 24 hours in Rotterdam gives you more than enough time to see some of the main highlights. Start by checking out the observation tower: The Euromast. You can even sleep inside! 

Also, make sure to stop by the Cube Houses. They were designed by Piet Blom and can only be found in Rotterdam and Helmond. Because of their unique design, they attract quite a bit of attention!

Since it’s also a large harbour city, it’s also a great idea to add the Old Harbour to your day trip to Rotterdam. Only a few old buildings survived the bombs, one of which is the White House. The Old Harbour is lined with cafes and bars, making it a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the view.

4. Den Bosch

Den Bosch is another lesser-known city in the Netherlands, but worth a visit! It has a little bit of everything: historic streets, a gorgeous cathedral, and a booming creative sector along the iconic Dutch canals. 

There are a lot of things to do in Den Bosch . The Saint Jans Cathedral is one of the most beautiful of its kind in the Netherlands. You can enter for free, and it’s even possible to climb the 43-meter high tower for a view of Den Bosch. The city also has canals. They’re not as famous as those in Amsterdam, but they are still fun to explore by boat.

After a short walk from the historic city centre, you can find Work Warehouse. This quirky area is filled with cool murals and graffiti – it’s a fantastic spot for taking photos.

And don’t forget to try a Bossche Bol, the city’s famous pastry. It’s basically a huge creme puff, but better 😉

5. Arnhem 

Submitted by Just Go Places Blog

Only about an hour away from Amsterdam by train, visiting Arnhem in the Netherlands is easy to do. You can even take a train directly to Arnhem from Schiphol International Airport. You will arrive at the swish new Arnhem train station, an architectural masterpiece that has won many design awards.

Arnhem was heavily bombed during World War 2 because of its strategic position near the German border with the Netherlands. Much of the medieval centre was destroyed during Operation Market Garden, where British paratroopers tried to take the town from the Nazis. Although ultimately unsuccessful, this invasion gave the Dutch hope that the Allied Forces would arrive eventually. There are two museums and a bridge in the town dedicated to Operation Market Garden.

Downtown Arnhem is a charming collection of streets that offers plenty of shopping. From the top of the Eusebius Church spire, there are views for miles. Underground in the historical area, the Dutch Museum of Wine is contained in a series of medieval cellars previously used to store wine.

There are also plenty of attractions near the city, especially for families. Arnhem is known for its Burger Zoo and its Open Air Museum dedicated to showing how the Dutch lived in the past. The Hoge Veluwe park on the outskirts of town is also the largest forested area in the Netherlands and perfect for cycling and hiking.

Submitted by Sam from Sam Sees World

Just a short distance from Amsterdam sits one of the best and most beautiful cities in the Netherlands: Muiden. It is a quaint yet charming city that offers the perfect Dutch getaway. You can get to Muiden from Amsterdam by bike, public transport, or car. The bike ride takes around 1 hour and brings you through the unique Dutch countryside. While taking a car or public transport take around the same amount of time.

Although there is a lot to do in Muiden, the highlight of the city is Muiderslot Castle . Muiderslot castle is a huge castle in Muiden, and a UNESCO world heritage site, just waiting to be explored. It will show you a more historical side of the Netherlands and is lovely to explore and discover. The entrance price is just over 15 euros, allowing you to explore freely for as long as you please.

Beyond the castle, you can walk around the charming town, go for a boat tour, eat along the canals, shop at local boutiques and more. It is the perfect place to experience local dutch life and enjoy some of the Netherlands’ most unique sides.

7. Amersfoort

Submitted by Craving Adventure

When thinking of the best cities in The Netherlands, Amersfoort often gets overlooked. Still, this medium-sized city in the exact middle of the country actually is quite a hidden gem. In 2015 and 2016, it was proclaimed the best city in The Netherlands to live in. 

On top of that, it is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the country. You’ll instantly see this as you enter the city by the city walls, the big gates providing access into the city centre and the big moat around it. And then there is the 98-meter high medieval church tower rising from the middle of town.

Like many other old cities in the Netherlands, there is a network of canals crossing through Amersfoort. Alongside these canals, you’ll find picturesque little cobblestone streets and alleyways full of boutique shops.

Amersfoort is well known for being a great place to go shopping and for being a place of culture. For example, the city is the birthplace of famous painter Piet Mondriaan, and his birth house has been turned into a museum.

8. Nijmegen

Submitted by Ask The Dutch Guy

The historic city of Nijmegen is one of Holland’s hidden gems. It is most likely the oldest city in the Netherlands, as it used to be part of the Roman Empire for many years. Nijmegen is home to the Renaissance-style Burchtstraat city hall, Sint-Jacobskapel chapel, and the Tower of Belvédère, which were all built in the 15th-17th century.

People usually flock to Lange Hezelstraat, which is the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands. Tourists love the shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores.

This enchanting city boasts its beaches along the Waal river and the De Ooijpolder nature reserve, situated just outside the city to the east. Here, visitors can find idyllic villages, typical Dutch farms, vast meadows of lovely flowers, and hiking trails.

Nijmegen is also famous for its museums and restaurants. Museum Het Valkhof features modern art, old masters and Roman antiquities, while the National Liberation Museum displays World War II memorabilia, showcasing how the Netherlands was liberated.

Meanwhile, two of the best restaurants in the city are De Nieuwe Winkel at Gebroeders van Limburgplein and De Meesterproef with its big, open kitchen, terrace, and beautiful interior.

Getting to Nijmegen is easy. From Amsterdam or Utrecht, one can take the intercity in the direction of this ancient city. And when coming from Rotterdam, travellers can take the train to Utrecht and on to Nijmegen .

Submitted by Zarina from Miss Travel Clogs

Despite being the 7th largest city in the Netherlands, Tilburg is barely known among tourists. Heck, it’s even an underrated destination among Dutch people. And that’s very understandable as there was nothing sexy about this former textile town until recent years. But having lived there myself before moving to London, I’ve seen Tilburg transform from a vibrant student city to an all-round cultural city break destination filled with interesting architecture.

Following a dramatic gentrification process, revitalised Tilburg now offers several cool urban hotspots. My number one go-to neighbourhood is Spoorzone, or ‘Rail Zone’ in English. Located next to Tilburg Central Station, you won’t have to go far to find this must-visit area. After a massive revamp of abandoned railway buildings, Spoorzone now houses fabulous industrial-chic bars and restaurants. Drop by RAW for a beer in an impressive industrial venue, or visit De Wagon for a coffee/meal in a cute vintage 1930s train carriage!

Home to one of the top music venues in the Netherlands, the impressive programme of 013 (named after the city’s district code) includes anything from mainstream bands and (inter)national singer-songwriters to pure rock ‘n’ roll see-you-in-the-mosh-pit gigs.

Want to take things down a notch? Then I recommend catching an arthouse film at the independent cinema Cinecitta. Fancy visiting a museum? Then modern art museum De Pont is an excellent choice. Or go to the Textile Museum to see inspiring exhibitions on fashion and design.

Curious to see what else my fantastic former home town has to offer? Then explore it for yourself! Located at respectively only a 15-min and 21-min train ride away from Den Bosch and Eindhoven, Tilburg makes for an excellent base to explore the hospitable southern province of the Netherlands. Or even for a day trip to Antwerp , Belgium, which is only an hour away by car. Have fun!

Submitted by Guide Your Travel

Leiden is a mid-sized city located in the Netherlands, close to the coast and south of Amsterdam. The city is home to several large universities, so there are always lots of students around. You’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants around the city, and although the nightlife cannot be compared to that of Amsterdam, you’ll always find something to do. 

Like many Dutch cities, Leiden is built on the water. There are beautiful canals which you can explore by boat. The historic architecture in Leiden is what makes it a must-visit for tourists. The buildings date back as far as the 17th century, and there are lots of different museums and art galleries. 

Leiden is the perfect choice for travellers who tend to avoid larger cities but are looking for many cultural activities. The National Museum of Antiquities and the Volkenkunde Museum should be at the top of your list as well as the Japan museum. 

For some impressive historic architecture, head to the Hooglandse Kerk, a beautiful gothic church. The Mare Kerk is another incredible church in Leiden that was restored to its former glory.

11. Utrecht

Submitted by Nichola from Family Hotel Expert .

Utrecht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and is often overlooked for its more famous neighbour Amsterdam. Don’t be fooled, though; there’s plenty to do in Utrecht to take you away from the capital and more than enough to make you want to pick it instead of Amsterdam. 

It has a similar look and feel to the capital, with canals running through the centre and beautiful traditional buildings lining the waterfront. But it’s much quieter and calmer, without the huge crowds of tourists. 

There’s so much to do here, from exploring the endearing Nijntje Museum, all centred around the Miffy character created here in Utrecht by Dick Bruna (perfect if you’re on a family holiday to Holland ) to the fantastic Speelklok Museum, set in a former church. 

Climb to the top of the Dom Tower for spectacular views or explore the engines at the train museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum). Utrecht is a beautiful city for losing yourself in the backstreets and is best explored on foot (or bicycle), not least because cars are banned from the centre. The architecture is beautiful and has a timeless appeal to it. 

Come for the day or the weekend, and you’ll wish you had longer to spend in this captivating city.

12. Haarlem

Submitted by Jennifer from FamilyTripGuides

Haarlem is a beautiful Dutch city located just 30km west of Amsterdam and 60km north of The Hague. This makes it a great weekend trip from Amsterdam . It is a great city to experience Dutch life outside of the tourist areas of Amsterdam. It is also famous for its surrounding tulip fields and as a significant trading centre for tulips.

There is lots to explore in and around the city. We start at the Grote Markt, the heart of the historic area, a huge outdoor market on Saturdays and smaller ones on other days of the week. It is a great town square with the Grote Kerk dating back to 1307. This town square has dozens of cafes, restaurants and shops and a great place for people watching.

Just one block away is the Corrie ten Boom House and Museum, where you can take a tour and view the actual hiding place where the ten Boom family sheltered Jews during World War II. It is a fascinating tour right on one of the main streets.

If you visit in Spring, renting a bicycle and exploring the Bollenstreek Flower Route from Haarlem to Leiden is not to be missed! You will see millions of tulips and other spring flowers in tidy rows along canals. 

13. Groningen

Submitted by Lavina from Continent Hop .

Occupied by Anglo-Saxons for quite a few centuries, Groningen, the largest city in the North in the Netherlands, is full of history and culture.

Usually full of students as there’s a major university here, the city is lively, and there’s lots to do.

Located about 150 kilometres from Amsterdam, it takes about 2 hours to get here. Once you do, you’re greeted with windmills, stroopwafels, idyllic canals, a generous helping of cheese and the occasional farms you can visit on a budget, without the hustle and bustle of tourists!

Groningen is frequented mainly by locals, and few tourists make it here, making it perfect if you’re looking to experience more of the culture and history of the Netherlands.

The streets have colourful houses, and the river has numerous boats that one can see making their way through, irrespective of weather.

As with most of the Netherlands, the city has many cycling routes that are very pretty. The coastline can be windy at times but can make for a great day out, especially with kids and pets. Menkemaborg castle and the Arboretum Notoarestoen park are great for a visit. In addition to this, the city is good for shopping as well!

14. The Hague

Submitted by Dym Abroad .

One of the best cities in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam is The Hague. The Hague is one of the largest cities in the country and it is known for the seat of government that you can find here and the house of the King of the Netherlands.

Furthermore, this is the place where you find the International Court of Justice, which is one of the world’s most important courts. One of the best things to do in The Hague is visiting Binnenhof. This is a building complex where you can find the government of the Netherlands. 

The building has beautiful architecture and is great to see! Another one of the best things to do in The Hague is seeing the Noordeinde Palace. This is the workplace of the king of the Netherlands.

Besides that, you should visit KM21 when you are in The Hague. This is one of the best  modern art museums in the Netherlands . You find here a large variety of works, including sculptures, paintings, and more. Furthermore, Scheveningen is great to visit. This is a part of The Hague that you can find next to the North Sea. It is a great place for a day at the beach.

Furthermore, you find here the Scheveningen Pier, which is great to visit as well!

Submitted by Lara from The Best Travel Gifts

If you love the beauty of Amsterdam but hate the crowd, you are going to love Delft!

Delft is a city located only about an hour away from Amsterdam by train, making it a perfect day trip. Though there is plenty to do to keep yourself entertained for a day or two. It’s famous for Dutch Delft Blue pottery and being home to one of the top technical universities The TU Delft.

With Delft being famous for the typical Delft blue pottery, it should come as no surprise that exploring cute boutiques and Delft Blue factories are among the top things to do in Delft. For stunning architecture head over to the Oude Kerk (Old Church) with its leaning tower. Or check out The Market Square with the Delft City Hall, The Waag, and The Nieuwe Kerk (new church). Climb the church tower to get amazing views over the city. If you are looking for the classic Amsterdam canal photos without the tourist, check out Hippoltusbuurtstraat, Voldersgracht, and the Old Canal.

For people interested in history The Prinsenhof Museum is a great place to learn about Dutch History. It is the former residence of William of Orange, who is also known as the father of the fatherland and played a key role in Dutch history and the royal family.

Lastly, the science museum of the TU Delft is perfect for people who love to learn about (surprise) science.

Conclusion: The Best Cities In The Netherlands

And that concludes our selection of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands. If you’re planning a trip to this lovely little country, make sure to add some alongside Amsterdam. It’s very much worth your time, and it’ll give you a much better idea of what the Dutch culture really means.

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Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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19 Best Cities to Visit in the Netherlands Besides Amsterdam by residents

February 13, 2020 by Karen Turner 47 Comments

As a Dutch resident, I’ve been lucky enough to see many of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands that aren’t as well known to tourists as well as the Dutch countryside.

Although you’ve probably heard why you should visit Amsterdam, the prettiest Dutch cities to visit are often peaceful, less crowded, and more memorable.  Keep reading for the 19 most atmospheric and beautiful cities/towns in the Netherlands that will help you discover more of the Netherlands.

I have lived in Amsterdam ( click for insider tips !) and the Hague.  One of my favorite hobbies to take a train to a new Dutch city or town or village (dorp) that I haven’t been before.

Although Amsterdam is a lovely city, its centre is full of touristy shops and if you simply take the train, you’ll discover some beautiful small Dutch towns and large cities in the Netherlands that are full of incredible architecture and history.

As much as I love Amsterdam, the Netherlands is so much bigger and people joke that Amsterdam is like Dutch Disneyworld, so if you’re wondering where to go in the Netherlands…any of these cities might be a good idea to experience the real Netherlands.  It should be noted that some of the cities are near Amsterdam while others are quite far, so depending on your time, make time to visit somewhere else.

Baarle-Nassau

Schiermonnikoog.

• 1 Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland
• 2.0.1 Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.
• 3 Muiden: The perfect day trip from Amsterdam
• 5 Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)
• 7 ‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:
• 8 Den Haag / The Hague
• 10 Baarle-Nassau
• 12 Rotterdam
• 13 Maastricht
• 15 Central cities to visit in the Netherlands
• 17 Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands
• 20 Giethoorn
• 21 Schiermonnikoog
• 22 Groningen
• 23 Leeuwarden
• 24 Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?
• 25 Enjoyed this? Share it!

Best Places to Visit in Noord Holland

You might be wondering: Is Holland the same as the Netherlands? Well, Holland is part of the Netherlands. It refers to one specific part of the Netherlands on the west coast (aka Noord Holland/South Holland).

Noord Holland is where most of the population lives, so people generally tend to call the Netherlands Holland as a result…however, you’re better off not describing the whole of the Netherlands as Holland since there are LOTS of other regions in the Netherlands worth visiting.

Noord Holland is where Amsterdam is located, so you’ll find many cities close to Amsterdam to visit.  The fantastic train system in the Netherlands means that the towns near Amsterdam (in Holland) are at most about one hour from Amsterdam, which makes these cities the perfect one day trip from Amsterdam (or longer!) . Click for a complete list of the 20 best day trips from Amsterdam

Haarlem: An easy day trip from Amsterdam

Haarlem is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Amsterdam. People assume because they’ve visited Amsterdam that there’s nothing of worth in Haarlem, however, Haarlem is older than Amsterdam. (Similarly, you can easily find cheap accommodations in Haarlem and take the train to Amsterdam.)

Haarlem’s town center is dominated by the imposing St. Bavokerk (also known as Grote Kerk, Big Church). Built on the spot of a burned down 12th-century church, it became an official cathedral in 1557. It’s beautiful inside and out, with stunning stained glass windows and an organ on which a young Mozart—among other musicians of yore—played many a tune.

Beyond the cathedral, Haarlem has some great museums such as the eccentric Teyler’s Museum and De Hallen, a tiny contemporary art museum. If relaxation is in order, check out the Jopenkerk, a hip craft beer bar and restaurant in a converted church, and be sure to follow up with the city’s best fries (and mayonnaise) at De Friethoes.

In short, Haarlem is a great day trip from Amsterdam for people who want to escape the hustle and bustle (and the tourist traps!) for a day. (Thanks to Alex .)

Click for my complete guide to Haarlem.

Muiden: the perfect day trip from amsterdam.

This beautiful and historic Dutch town close to Amsterdam (only 40 minutes by bus) is the home of one of my favorite Dutch castles (Muiderslot) .   Muiden minimizes cars and you’ll often see large ships passing through the town.  Be sure to stop into one of the historic brown bars for a drink or a meal after visiting Muiderslot castle.  You’ll feel like you stepped back in time.  Click for more information about visiting castles in the Netherlands.

This atmospheric star-shaped fortress city in the Netherlands is widely considered one of the best Dutch cities to explore due to its well-preserved walls/moat and beautiful houses.

It is an easy train ride from Amsterdam to Naarden and you’ll find that there’s plenty of things to do outside of Amsterdam if you discover this beautiful Dutch city at your own pace.

Although there’s so many cute towns in the area, experiencing Naarden means that you’ll also get a glimpse into Dutch history as it has one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands (dating back to 1572!).  Perfect for a half-day trip from Amsterdam or a day trip combined with visiting Muiden.

Best cities to visit in South Holland (Includes best cities to visit in Zuid Holland, Brabant, and Limburg)

A bit further from Amsterdam, you’ll find the cities of South Holland, Brabant, and Limburg. This area is about 1-3 hours from Amsterdam, but these towns/cities are rich in culture, history, and beauty. (Sometimes less!)

This charming university town only thirty minutes from Amsterdam is full of charm, stunning canals, beautiful Dutch canal houses, and so few crowds that you’ll be wondering where everyone is.  Leiden can be mistaken for Amsterdam if you show the right photo although once you visit the historic Pieterskwartier, you won’t want to return to the crowds in the Red Light District.

Click for a complete guide to Leiden

‘s-Hertogenbosch / Den Bosch:

‘s-Hertogensbosch, or Den Bosch for short, is the capital city of North Brabant, famous for its hospitality, good food and people who know how to enjoy life.

Den Bosch is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands with city rights dating back to 1185. One of the most remarkable sights is the Gothic St. John’s Cathedral, built between 1380 and 1530. During a recent renovation on one of the flying buttresses, there was added a statue of an angel holding a cell phone.

Those who love art can visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre to learn about Den Bosch’s most famous painter (Hieronymus Bosch). From the tower of the Centre, you will have a breathtaking view of the city. A different way to see Den Bosch is to take a boat tour on the Binnendieze through the city’s canals, including under many of the buildings.

There are also markets on the main square on Wednesdays and Saturdays.  Many restaurants are located at the Markt, De Parade and Vismarkt squares and on the streets: Korenbrugstraat and Korte Putstraat.

The specialty of Den Bosch is the  Bossche bol – a gigantic profiterole covered with dark chocolate and filled with whipped cream. Den Bosch is a perfect destination for a one-day trip, however, my advice is to stay a few days extra so that you can thoroughly enjoy the city.  During Carnaval, the city changes names and turns into a giant party in the streets.

(Thanks to Daniela from Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Den Haag / The Hague

Den Haag is often overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it is full of fantastic museums as well as historic architecture. Although Amsterdam is the capital, the Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and the home of Dutch Parliament.

For history geeks, it’s also the home of the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court in addition to hosting many of the main governing bodies of the Netherlands. One of the ones not to miss is the beautiful Binnenhof, which was a castle originally built in the 13th century to house counts. It is now used for meetings of the cabinets. (The Hague is about 1 hour from Amsterdam.)

Den Haag is also full of hofjes (historic courtyards that used to be almshouses), fantastic museums, and a lively Chinatown. For math and art geeks, you can visit the Escher Museum, which is housed in a former palace. The building is beautiful, but the art is even more fascinating.

Even more famous is the Mauritshuis, which houses  Girl with the Pearl Earring  and The   Goldfinch . If you’re an art geek with a love for the Dutch Golden age, this beautiful museum in a palatial setting is a must-see during your trip.

If you’re in Den Haag, don’t miss the Netherlands’ most famous boardwalk along the beach:  Scheveningen . The pier is a day in itself with tons of activities for couples and families alike!

Click for an insider’s guide to what to do in the Hague with 30+ things to do in the Hague!

Click for a one day guide to the Hague

Heusden is a small fortified town on the River Maas. A bird view of the town is pretty amazing, as it looks like a star from the air. Heusden is the perfect destination for slow travel in the Netherlands as you can walk along the old city walls, get lost in the narrow streets, or sit at café Havenzicht to watch the yachts passing by.

The town was built in the early 13th century to replace a castle destroyed by the Duke of Brabant. The stronghold played a significant role in the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) against Spanish dominance. In the 70’s the town has been completely restored based on a map from 1649.

There are many places to eat in Heusden, but you should try the Dutch pancakes at De Pannekoekenbakker.  When walking around in Heusden, there are many art galleries, including the shop of famous Dutch footwear designer Jan Jansen.

(Thanks to Daniela from  Ipanema Travels To.. .)

Baarle-Nassau is one of those bizarre oddities you need to see to believe. Its misshapen borders are tightly entwined with the Flemish enclave of Baarle-Haartog, thanks to a handful of fickle treaties in medieval days of yore.

The task of figuring out which country a building resides in is so confusing that the town had to create a rule: country of residence is determined by which country the front door opens into. Since taxes in Belgium are lower, that led to a rush to renovate houses to have doors opening to the Belgian side!

The queer little town(s) merits a day trip at the very least. A scenic cycle, drive, or bus ride from nearby Tilburg will bring you to its wacky borders, marked on the ground with small crosses.

You can pick up a pannenkoek (pancake) at De Pannenkoekenbakker on the Dutch side, then hop over to Belgium to sample a Flemish brew or three at De Lantaern. No passport necessary! (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose .)

Gouda is known for its world-famous cheese, but the city has so much more.  It is only 55 minutes by train and compact, so you can easily make it one of your day trips from Amsterdam and it is a must-see for the Netherlands if you’re a cheese lover.  Thanks to Maartje!

The impressive Town Hall on the central market square is a unique monument not to miss! Courtyards: the oldest yard dates back to even 1449!  St Jan church is the tallest church in the Netherlands and has huge stained glass windows. Look up and admire the facades of the Gouda houses with special ‘gevelstenen’, some even date back to 1609.

Stroopwafels are traditional Dutch syrup waffles. Try the waffles at Van Vliet bakery, where thousands are freshly baked daily on Lange Groenendaal street.

The Gouda cheese market occurs from April to the end of August. On Thursday mornings you can witness cheese making, cheese trading and weighing cheese in de Waag.

Click for a complete guide to Gouda 

Rotterdam is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands with a population only second in size to Amsterdam.  If you’re looking for another city to visit, Rotterdam is where to go in the Netherlands besides Amsterdam due to its dramatically different cityscape.

Most of Rotterdam was destroyed in World War II, so they’ve had to rebuild everything. For modern architectural buffs, Rotterdam is a great place to explore for its architecture, including the famous Blaak cube houses and the Rotterdam Market Hall. You can go up the Euroscope and take in the panoramic view of Rotterdam.

There are a number of good restaurants in Rotterdam, including Guliano (Italian) and Takumi (Japanese ramen). Rotterdam has the largest Asian population in the whole Netherlands, so Chinatown is where to go for Asian food. Rotterdam is a great city for nightlife.

The Witte de Withstraat street is Rotterdam’s bar street. I personally loved Wunderbar, which is a bar that is below ground but allows you to order through a window on the street level.  (Thanks to Tendelle .)

Click for a complete guide to Rotterdam

Maastricht is one of the most charming cities in the Netherlands and it can be easily explored in a weekend. The city is perfect for a slow, romantic weekend spent exploring a beautiful cathedral bookstore, strolling the tangled streets, touring historic caves, and eating/drinking delicious regional cuisine at affordable prices.

It’s a scenic 2.5-hour train ride each way south to Maastricht from Amsterdam and it costs about 25 euros per way. Its proximity makes it easy to hop over to Aachen, Germany for only 5 euros.

Recommended for a weekend trip from Amsterdam or a 1-2 day stopover between the Netherlands and Germany if you’re Eurorailing!

Read more about Maastricht here .

Delft is a quaint medieval town close to Rotterdam. about 1 hour from Amsterdam It’s well-known for being home to the Delft University of Technology, so it’s a vibrant and international university town.

The “Delft blue pottery” is famous from here, and many collectors flock to Delft to buy this special pottery as a Dutch souvenir. Don’t miss the Nieuwe Kerk’s impressive view over the city (and sizeable climb). Click to see how you can visit a Delft factory for free.

The city center of Delft is very beautiful. One of the hidden gems is that below street level and at the canal-level, there are tucked away benches for people to sit on. These benches are hidden from plain sight, perfect for a romantic date spot.

You can read a complete guide to Delft here as I routinely visit this beautiful Dutch city!

Central cities to visit in the Netherlands

Utrecht is the 4th largest city in the Netherlands and it’s the major Dutch city south of Amsterdam (only 40 minutes!). Utrecht is also a very old city that dates back to 1122 and it is the kind of city that you can get (happily) lost in.

I highly recommend exploring the beautiful and compact city center on foot, there are beautiful old houses, pretty canals and lots of cozy cafes (some with cellars opening up to the canals).  Its canals are two stories, unlike Amsterdam’s canals.

One must-visit is the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands (112 meter high). Other interesting places to visit are the Railway Museum and Neude. For kids, there’s the Miffy museum.

If you’re planning a trip around the Netherlands and you’re looking for a good base in the Netherlands, Utrecht is perfect as it is exactly in the center of the Netherlands and it has reasonable accommodations.   (Thanks to Lotte ) 

You’ll hear Dutchies raving that it is one of the best Dutch cities to visit and I’m apt to agree that it is one of the top places to visit in the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam.

Click for my guide to a day trip to Utrecht .

Northern & Eastern Cities (from Amsterdam) to visit in the Netherlands

Just an hour by train from Amsterdam is a charming little city called Zwolle. In the centre, you will find beautiful Medieval buildings that make you feel like a princess! The streets are intimate but also have a broad range of shops and restaurants to explore. One of the most unique sites you will come upon in Zwolle is Waanders The Broeren, a beautiful bookstore situated in a 15th century church.

Designer BK Architecten elegantly designed the store without altering any of the church’s original structure. The best part is that you can enjoy the beautiful ambiance of the church over delicious food and drinks in the brasserie, nestled in the heart of the cathedral. It’s about 1.5 hours to Zwolle from Amsterdam. (Thanks to Melissa )

You can read a complete guide to things to do in Zwolle here.

Ommen is a historical city located on the banks of the Vecht River. Though it’s home to less than 9,000 residents, Ommen has been called a city since 1248, when it was granted stadsrechten (city rights) in order to protect itself from pillaging.

Today, Ommen is the ideal balance between a fun tourist spot and a serene country escape. Due to its small size and “remote” location (for the Netherlands, anyway), it remains a bit of a secret in the larger international community.

Notable spots around Ommen include the Reformed Church, the city’s oldest building (originally constructed in the 12th century), and three old-fashioned windmills – two of which are still in regular operation.

After wandering through the charming city square and narrow side streets, you can relax by the river, linger at a waterside café, or cycle through the picturesque Dutch countryside. The area is probably best known for the Bissingh – a festival that takes place every July, made up of markets, live music, and other events. The Bissingh now spans several weeks. (Thanks to Emily for this contribution).

You may have seen photos of Giethoorn although few people know it by name (or can pronounce it correctly). It really is one of the prettiest dutch towns that I’ve seen. The small village of Giethoorn is in Overijssel and it is a bus ride away from Zwolle. This little town has no streets; only bridges, canals, and bike lanes.

You can rent a boat for 15 euros (per hour) to enjoy its picturesque canals although you should bring your own drinks/food as food in the town commands tourist prices (although it is possible to stop off for some frites!).

Tip: Go late in the afternoon to avoid large groups and stay overnight to enjoy the quiet small town feel. I consider boating around Giethoorn one of my favorite experiences in any one of the Dutch cities to visit in the Netherlands.

Click for information on visiting Giethoorn from Amsterdam.

Schiermonnikoog is part of a Dutch group of islands called the Waddeneilanden (Wadden islands). The island is also the Netherlands’ first National Park, and the perfect getaway for nature lovers and bike enthusiasts.

What makes this, and other islands like it, so special, is that it’s virtually car free.  Permanent residents of the island, of which there are only about 900, need a special permit to keep a car. Due to the small size and flat landscape, very few choose to do so, making Schiermonnikoog a car-free cycling paradise.

Nature lovers have plenty to look forward to on the island. Schiermonnikoog hosts the widest beach in Europe, has plenty of hiking trails, offers great bird watching opportunities, and is great for spotting sunbathing seal families.

It’s the perfect place to see the surprising variety of Dutch nature up close. If you tire of hedonism and history, head north to Schiermonnikoog to recharge your batteries, and immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful parts of the Netherlands.  (Thanks to Alex, Lost with Purpose.) [If this appealed to you, you also might love the idea of Texel , which is about 2 hours north of Amsterdam.]

This lively student city in the north of the Netherlands is full of charm and friendly folks. It’s also home of the world’s tallest climbing wall, the Excalibur . (I can proudly say that I’ve climbed it!)  

We got happily lost in the beautiful historic centre with many cute shops, art galleries, and brown bars serving up delicious local beers.  We enjoyed the incredible architecture of the University of Groningen, which was established in 1614. The campus is absolutely stunning and worth visiting. The Grote Markt has many food stands, including some amazing Venezuelan food (the best I’ve had!)

Click to read my guide to climbing Excalibur & a complete guide to Groningen written by a local.

The capital of Friesland, Leeuwarden, was named the 2018 European Capital of Culture and you can discover its rich history while walking around the city center.

Fryslân (Friesland) as a region has a unique culture and language (Frisian).  The unfinished church is one of Leeuwarden’s most famous landmarks although you’ll also find beautiful parks. Leeuwarden is one of Fryslân’s eleven historic cities with beautiful architecture and a rich history.   (To read more about Friesland or Leeuwarden, click here!)

Have you been to the Netherlands? What was your favorite city besides Amsterdam?

If you have a favorite that is not included yet, please comment below!

Enjoyed this? Share it!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 13, 2017 at 8:37 pm

Wow! This is such a comprehensive post that opened my mind to other places outside of Amsterdam. I’d heard of a few (think Utrecht and Gouda, plus Holland) but had no idea about the others. I LOVE that first picture of Haarlem too. For someone who’s from the UK it’s kinda shameful I haven’t been yet, but this will definitely come in handy if I ever do!

May 13, 2017 at 8:45 pm

Such a nice list about Netherlands! I visited Amsterdam and Utrecht before, and had great time there 🙂 So many other cities to explore!

May 13, 2017 at 8:53 pm

Pinned this interesting read! We were just discussing yesterday about how we could spend a week in Netherlands and I knew of only Rotterdam and Amsterdam!… Thanks for your inputs, now I have too much to fit in a week.. lol..

May 13, 2017 at 9:07 pm

It´s been ages since I was in Amsterdam and the coast – but never was to many of these towns on your list! Looks awesome and since I´m not all that far from NL, a road trip has to happen next year! Giethoorn looks like out of a fairytale, x

May 13, 2017 at 9:16 pm

I fell in love with the Netherlands upon my first visit, but now I absolutely can’t wait to get back!

May 13, 2017 at 9:48 pm

They really are picturesque! I have only been to Amsterdam, so your post gives me inspiration to explore more for sure. Pinned for later.

May 13, 2017 at 9:49 pm

I really like Utrecht and I was lucky to be there on the Queen’s Day some years ago. Thanks for all the suggestions about other places to visit, Baarle-Nassau in particular sounds intriguing. I’ve just clicked through to your Amsterdam post as we’re going in October!

May 13, 2017 at 10:15 pm

I live very close to Naarden and it is a beautiful city. It’s also a great area for cycling through the forest. It’s nice to see an article about other places than Amsterdam. There is so much to see in the Netherlands.

May 14, 2017 at 12:18 am

Omg I cannot believe there is a TOWN called GOUDA and its actually all about CHEESE. These cities are the perfect excuse to come back to the Netherlands for more Stroopwafel 😛

May 14, 2017 at 12:36 am

I didn’t know the Netherlands have so many beautiful cities and towns. I’ve only been to Rotterdam and Maastricht but I should definitely visit some more – especially because I’m a neighbour haha.

May 14, 2017 at 9:05 am

I have only been to Amsterdam, but I’d love to see more of the Netherlands! This post was very inspiring. I’m pinning it for when I plan a return trip 🙂

May 14, 2017 at 6:29 pm

I smiled throughout this post as i have been to many of them. So much more to explore though. Thank you for this comprehensive list!

May 14, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Love this list! I’ve only ever been to Amsterdam (guilty as charged), but I’d love to see the countryside and smaller towns and maybe do a bicycle trip around the country one day!

May 14, 2017 at 11:17 pm

I have to admit that I am one of those people who has only been to Amsterdam and really haven’t had any urge to venture outside of it. This post has definitely inspired me to head back to the Netherlands though! Giethoorn looks amazing!

May 15, 2017 at 10:31 am

Explore Friesland too. There are lots of small villages like Makkum (the fishers village) a village just close by Afsluitdijk or drop by in Aldfaerserf Openluchtmuseum in Allingawier. You can visit Leeuwarden too and some other big cities in Friesland.

May 15, 2017 at 11:13 am

Hi May, Thanks for commenting. I actually just visited Friesland this weekend (for the first time) to visit Leeuwarden as well as Franeker. Super charming and I’ll be adding about 5 more cities to this list very soon, including at least one in Friesland. Driving the Afsluitdijk was really incredible. Thank you for commenting and I will include more regions soon!

May 15, 2017 at 12:16 pm

Here is an interesting one.I was once accepted for a Masters in Maastricht. Life happened, but now it’s now super high on my list! I love seeing places beyond Amsterdam, so this list is really good!

May 15, 2017 at 6:05 pm

This post has definitely inspired me to visit the Netherlands ! I’d love to see the countryside, small towns and do a bicycle trip around the country 🙂 I’ve only visited Amsterdam few years ago… but there are so many places to explore outside of Amsterdam !

May 15, 2017 at 8:05 pm

Karen, lovely article. However, as an American living in Den Haag, and having to answer the question quite often about the Holland/Netherlands question, I thought I might give you a bit of info. Noord Holland and Zuid Holland are the two most populated provinces, and where the largest cities are located, thus the overarching term for the country as Holland. Although you do mention Zuid Holland far into your post, at the top you only mention Noord Holland. You might want to edit to include both provinces. Bedankt!

May 15, 2017 at 11:07 pm

Dear Suzanne, You are very correct. I wasn’t necessarily clear with my wording in the original copy, but I’ve updated to reflect the reality of the Randstad. Thank you for your comment. Thank you for reading. 🙂

July 30, 2017 at 1:51 am

Leiden in South Holland is also worth a visit. It’s a very old university town and it’s my husband’s hometown, incidentally. I have visited it many times and love the waterways that flow through it including the Oude Rijn.

May 15, 2017 at 8:14 pm

LOL I was reading this article and wishing you would mention my city Groningen. x

May 15, 2017 at 11:06 pm

JUST updated with Groningen. I actually intended to include it originally, but ran out of time prior to publication. I really enjoyed it, especially the lovely brown bars and the Excalibur climbing wall! Adding 4 more now to round it out at 20!

May 15, 2017 at 8:49 pm

Hello Karen, Oh wow! I’m sure you’ve visited the oldest planetarium in the world- Planetarium Eise Eisinga. I’m excited to read your next blog 🙂

May 19, 2017 at 3:14 am

Wow, this is a wonderful post! The first and last time I went to Netherlands, was when I was 16… That’s very long ago. Being from Germany, I definitely missed out on visiting the surrounding countries. You pictures are gorgeous and inspire to visit even smaller cities! It seems there are little gems everywhere!

May 19, 2017 at 8:27 am

Nice blog! Maybe you could add a fee words about the forts that were built to protect the cities from marauding armies, the Hollandse Waterlinie. The forts are converted for many different purposes. Gorinchem, where I live, has four or five of them. The city is surrounded by complete ramparts and fortifications as well, and you can visit Woudrichem/Loevestein castle plus fort Vuren by foot ferry.

May 20, 2017 at 3:01 pm

Love this! We went to Amsterdam last year and checked out Utrecht which I loved. Our next destination in the Netherlands is Rotterdam so excited that it made the list as well. 🙂

May 21, 2017 at 5:56 pm

I went to Amsterdam almost two years ago and absolutely loved it! This is such a great post to explore more of the Netherlands besides the big city. I will be saving this for my travel planning!

May 24, 2017 at 10:30 am

OH MY GOSH! This is amazing. Beautiful photos, amazing experience. I envy you. 🙂

June 18, 2017 at 3:53 pm

Thanks for this post! I want to explore other parts of the Netherlands but didn’t know where to start. These towns sound awesome and I’ve actually heard of some of them. Giethoorn looks so sweet and beautiful!

June 29, 2017 at 2:10 pm

Oh my God nice pictures thanks for shear it.

July 15, 2017 at 1:19 pm

I love how you also listed some lesser known places, like Zwolle and Leeuwarden. Personally, I also really love Breda and Middelburg 🙂 Oh… and Deventer.

July 17, 2017 at 11:40 am

Muiden is a very beautiful place to be.Muiden is a city and former municipality in the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland. It lies at the mouth of the Vecht and is in an area called the Vechtstreek

July 30, 2017 at 2:39 am

Hi Daphne, I was recently there and loved it. I need to update this post with the new places I’ve been recently!

August 21, 2017 at 11:45 am

I live in Amsterdam but in this kinda posts i never read anything About my home town Breda in the south. City famous for its old beautiful centre, Forrest at the south, beer, candies, carnaval, jazz festival And last but not least the Netherlands most famous DJ (Tiësto) is from this place. Good to combine with Rotterdam as there is a highspeed train from Amsterdam via Rotterdam to Breda.

November 3, 2017 at 2:58 pm

I live here for a 4 years already (in Gouda – totally agree on its appearance on your list!). I cannot really say I love Amsterdam, it is waaaaay to crowded for me… But other small cities like Haarlem, Dordrecht, Delft, Leiden….mmmm…. small and cozy :)))) For those who said they never knew Netherlands has so many beautiful places to visit – there are even more!

July 13, 2018 at 5:27 pm

Nice compilation. Disappointed that the nice Zeelandic towns like Middelburg and Vlissingen are missing. Maybe you are yet to explore those

July 13, 2018 at 5:28 pm

Hi Raj, I was in Middelburg about 2-3 weeks ago. I’ll definitely be updating it to include it. 🙂

Watch for a guide this month!

Best, Karen

September 19, 2018 at 1:06 am

Nice list,but Amersfoort deserves to be on it as well,my hometown. Mooie lijst,maar Amersfoort verdient on we ook op te staan,mijn stad One of the oldest medieval towns in the Netherlands 20 km. from Utrecht. From Amersfoort you can go anywhere in The Netherlands,it is Railroad hub.

September 15, 2019 at 10:12 pm

Hi, my favourite towns are Marken (I love lighthouses) and Elburg – you wont forget either in a hurry.

October 23, 2019 at 9:54 pm

I’m just wrapping up a 3.5 week trip the the Netherlands, ending in Amsterdam. I started in Delft, with side trips to The Hague and Leiden; then Rotterdam, Utrecht, Maastricht and finally Amsterdam, heading to Haarlem tomorrow (which is how I found your blog). I’ve loved each place in its own way but, so far, Leiden is my favorite.

October 24, 2019 at 11:37 am

Hi Eileen, Thank you for this lovely comment. It makes me so happy to read this as there are so many charming cities in the Netherlands to see! Curious if Leiden takes the crown for you after seeing Haarlem! I regularly visit Delft and Leiden myself. 🙂

August 16, 2020 at 11:12 pm

Please mention Arnhem, a beautiful city and take the side trip to the POSTBANK!!!

June 20, 2024 at 4:32 am

I was recently touring around in the south and east and fell in love with Breda, Zutphen, Dordrecht, Amersfoort, Den Bosch and Bergen Op Zoom. I’m planning on buying a second home in one of those. any recommendations as to which would be the best choices for a senior gay couple?

[…] of the heather landscapes in Texel… I’m currently based in The Netherlands where weekend getaways are much easier than in the US, but the short weekend trip is possible. […]

[…] write about expat related issues.  If you’re looking for pragmatic, helpful, and honest tips for travel in Europe, you’re in the right place.   If you want to read some more inspiring guides to Paris, […]

[…]  I live here, so browse my site for insider tips for Amsterdam (my home for 2+ years), other beautiful cities in the Netherlands that you won’t want to miss, and Dutch alcohols that you’ll want to […]

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17 Best cities in the Netherlands

This post is also available in: Dutch

The Netherlands has a lot more cool cities and towns that are worth visiting than you would think! Most tourists only visit Amsterdam, but there is more to explore in this tiny country. To give you some inspiration for your visit to my homecountry, I decided to write about the best cities to visit in the Netherlands. That’s why I also asked other travel bloggers about their favourite destinations in the Netherlands and which cities you definitely shouldn’t miss during a visit. It resulted in this pretty awesome article with the 17 best cities in the Netherlands! 🙂 

This article is perfect as an inspiration for your visit to the Netherlands! It includes cities that are an excellent alternative to Amsterdam, which is getting more and more touristic each year. Of course, Amsterdam is an amazing, beautiful city filled with history, canals and adorable streets. But did you know that there are plenty of other cities and towns in the Netherlands that also have these features, but are not touristic at all? Especially if you’re planning on visiting the Netherlands during the holidays, it’s smart to visit more than just the capital city. 

After each destination I’ve added some hotel recommendations. However, if you would rather want to experience living like a local in the Netherlands, I advice you to check out Airbnb. Often I find the most unique accommodations in great locations on Airbnb. If you haven’t used Airbnb before, use this link for a discount! That way I also get a discount on my next booking with them. A win/win situation! 🙂 

Enjoy your stay in the Netherlands!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. For more information please check our Disclosure page . 

1. Amsterdam: The capital city of the Netherlands

The first city in this listicle is an obvious one. Most tourists have actually only heard of Amsterdam. Often when I’m travelling overseas and I say that I’m from the Netherlands, I will get a puzzled face. But when I say “Amsterdam”, everyone knows what I’m talking about!

Amsterdam should definitely be in your itinerary when you visit the Netherlands for the first time! It’s one of the most touristic places in my country and it’s easy to see why so many people want to visit this city. All the beautiful canals, old houses in different sizes and shapes, a lot of art, museums and restaurants.

There is something to do for everyone in Amsterdam. From Amsterdam it’s also easy to visit other cities with the train or bus, so it’s a great central point to start your trip in the Netherlands. If you’re spending a few days in Amsterdam or doing a lot of day trips from here, it might be an idea to get the I Amsterdam City Card . Be sure to also read our article  Day Trip in Amsterdam with the I Amsterdam City Card to see if it’s worth it if you’re only spending one day in Amsterdam.

Hotel tips in Amsterdam

• Misc Eatdrinksleep:  a bit of a quirkier hotel at a canal. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Hotel Estheréa: a hotel with an absolutely gorgeous interior. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Ambasade Hotel: another amazing hotel at a canal. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel: perfect if you’re on a budget. Check out the prices and availability  here .

2. Haarlem: The perfect day trip from Amsterdam

Photo and text by Brigitte from A Little Blonde in Paradise .

From Haarlem you can be in the center of Amsterdam within 15 minutes, but you can also set foot on the beach within 15 minutes. Sounds perfect, right? Haarlem is becoming a popular city for people that want to experience the Amsterdam feeling, but want to escape from all the tourists and chaos.

So what are the highlights of Haarlem? You must check out the main square of Haarlem, this is where it all happens. You will find plenty of fancy restaurants, the beautiful church and the city hall where you will often see people getting married. In my opinion, the most photogenic street is the Warmoestraat, just behind the main square. But there is more! Haarlem is the perfect city to wander around and get lost in the many beautiful hidden streets. You will see lots of courtyards with old authentic Dutch houses.

If you want to see more of the authentic Dutch architecture you should go for a walk along the river Spaarne and you will not be disappointed. Where you should go for food and drinks? Here are my some of my favourite brunch spots: Mica, ByLima, Anne&Max, Blender, Mogador Coffee,  Dodici, Fortuyn and Diga. They are not the standard tourist spots, they are a bit hidden and not all of them are located in the main center of Haarlem, but it is worth visiting them!

Hotel tips in Haarlem

• Amrâth Grand Hotel Frans Hals:  a centrally located hotel, close to all the touristic attractions. Check out the prices and availability here .
• Ambassador City Centre Hotel:  A family run hotel in the centre of Harlem, opposite of the Sint-Bavo church, close to the Grote Markt. Check out the prices and availability here .
• Amadeus Hotel : Another family run hotel, located in a historic building at the Grote Markt. Check out the prices and availability here .
• Hello I’m Local Boutique Hostel:  A cool hostel that is perfect if you’re on a budget. Check out the prices and availability here .

3. Rotterdam: Manhattan at the Maas

Photo and text by Lisanne from Weekends in Rotterdam ..

In the past, most tourists only paid a visit to Amsterdam and some barely even knew there was more to the Netherlands than our capital city. Nowadays, Rotterdam is getting more and more recognition for the cool city it is. Rotterdam is my hometown, and it’s funny to see hop on/hop off busses driving around and more and more tourists walking around on the streets. This definitely wasn’t the case just a mere three to four years ago.

Rotterdam is completely different from Amsterdam and any Dutch city. Because Rotterdam was bombed during the Second World War, it had to be build from scratch. A lot of renowned architects designed buildings for Rotterdam and you’ll be amazing by the crazy buildings in the city. For instance, the weird Cube Houses you see pictured above, or the large Markthal, De Rotterdam or the beautiful Erasmus bridge. Because of all those buildings, Rotterdam also has a beautiful skyline that actually resembles New York a bit. That’s why we also call Rotterdam  Manhattan aan de Maas  or Manhattan at the Maas.

TIP:  Are you visiting Rotterdam during the Eurovision Song Contest 2020? Then be sure to read this Eurovision Song Contest Guide for Rotterdam , it contains a lot of useful information about the song contest and practical information for your visit in general.

Hotel tips in Rotterdam

• Rotterdam Marriott Hotel: named best hotel of Rotterdam in 2018. Check out the prices and availability here .
• nhow Rotterdam: a cool hotel with urban art, architecture, design, fashion, photography and some of the best views of the city. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• CitizenM Rotterdam: a luxurious hotel with great views. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Hostel ROOM Rotterdam: a very cool hostel and great if you’re on a budget. Check out the prices and availability  here .

Read this article for more unique hotels in Rotterdam .

4. Utrecht: Historic university city

Utrecht is a beautiful city that has a lot of historic buildings and structures. It’s actually one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. Utrecht is a great alternative to Amsterdam, as in this university city you can also find a lot of canals and “herenhuizen”, which are the traditional Dutch houses. This makes it the perfect city to walk around canals and exploring the beautiful historical buildings.

Many students in the Netherlands choose the University in Utrecht, and it’s no surprise when you see the gorgeous historical university buildings and the university botanical gardens.

Are you planning on visiting Utrecht? Be sure to check out these 20 things to do in Utrecht .

Hotel tips in Utrecht

• Grand Hotel Karel V:  a 5-star hotel in the center of the city. Check out the prices and availability here .
• De Hoendervorst:  this unique hotel has an excellent location in the center of Utrecht. You stay right at the canal in an old yard cellar. Check prices and availability here .
• BUNK Hotel Utrecht: in this hotel they offer bunk beds for different amount of people. It’s located very close to the city center and just 300 meters of TivoliVredenburg. Check out prices and availability here .
• Stayokay Utrecht centrum:  affordable hostel in a perfect location in the center of Utrecht. Check prices and availability here .

5. The Hague: The political capital of the Netherlands

Photo and text by Karen from Wanderlustingk .

The Hague is the former capital of the Netherlands and it’s a must for anyone interested in history. You can visit the working palace of the king, the Dutch parliament (my favourite free attraction here!), or visit one of the famous art museums. The historic city is very picturesque and compact, so it’s easy to walk around while enjoying the many cute shops. My favourite is a wine store called De Filosoof with a beautiful Persian cat that greets the visitors and waits by the register. Similarly, a popular attraction is the popular beach resort of Scheveningen for the views over the sea, strolling along the boardwalk, or going surfing. One of the coolest parts about this city is that you can do both in one day and that it doesn’t feel as touristy as Amsterdam.

Another cool thing about the Hague is how international it is. Most of the consulates and embassies in the Netherlands in the Hague, so you hear many languages on the street and you’ll find food from all over the world (that you can’t find elsewhere in the Netherlands). The diversity and beauty of the Hague make it so appealing for visitors looking for a day trip.

Hotel tips in The Hague

• Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus The Hague Scheveningen:  beautiful hotel on the boulevard, only 3 minutes from the beach. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• NH Den Haag:  this elegant hotel is located 15 minutes from the central station.  Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Student Hotel The Hague:  perfect combination of co-living and co-working. Check out the prices and availability here .   

6. Dordrecht: The oldest city of the Netherlands

Photo and text by Leo of Safari Nomad

Dordrecht, the seaport and the oldest city in Holland, is located on an island and is bordered by five different rivers. In the past it was an important city with a trade in wood, cereals and wine, yet the culture and its wealth is still visible today (monuments, museums, theatres, etc.). Today the city is principally known for shipbuilding, wood and steel industry.

The city is rich in history, so there are a number of museums, monuments and fantastic historical buildings. Very interesting activity there is sailing through the old harbours on an electric boat, which takes you past houses built in the water and under bridges. Must sees are the Great Church and collection of paintings of the Dordrechts Museum. From the Groothoofd there is a gorgeous view of the rivers’ intersections.

Nearby there is a nature reserve National Park De Biesbosch, consisting of many waterways, islands, lakes and marshes. Here you can enjoy plenty of outdoor opportunities, such as hiking, cycling, kayaking and even bird watching. You can rent a boat and explore the beauty or go horse back riding.

Hotel tips in Dordrecht

• Villa Augustus: this unique hotel is a former water tower. All the rooms have a beautiful view, either over the river or a vegetable garden. Check prices and availability here .
• B&B Op Ut Hoekie: excellent location in the center of Dordrecht. Each room has a cute little balcony. Check prices and availability here .
• Oranjepark: excellent location in the center of Dordrecht. The hotel is a beautifully renovated building. Check prices and availability here .

7. Delft: an idyllic town in the Netherlands

Delft is mostly known for it’s traditional blue and white ceramics, also known as  Delfts blauw . Other than that, Delft has a beautiful old city center and is a picturesque town. The city was built around a canal known as Oude Delft  or Old Delft and many more canals were build later on. Delft is perfect as a city trip from either Rotterdam or Amsterdam, but it’s certainly also worth it to stay here for a couple of nights.

What are things to do in Delft? Visit the Nieuwe Kerk, Oude Kerk and the Main Square, three historic highlights in the middle of the center. At the main square you can buy local products and explore a buzzing part of town. Or try out chocolates at a chocolaterie, go shopping for ceramics at one of the cute shops or explore the town by boat or bicycle!

Hotel tips in Delft

• Hotel de Plataan Delft Centrum:  located in the historic center of Delft and is one of the greenest hotels in the country. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Hotel Johannes Vermeer Delft:  located in an old cigar factory in the center, close to many monuments, museums and shopping areas. Check out the prices and availability here .

8. Breda: A city with an amazing vibe

Photo and text by Eva Jansen from Guided by Curiosity .

Breda is a city that has an amazing vibe. It’s great for delicious food, shopping and taking walks. For example, there is a huge choice of restaurants; my favourites include Bar Lucca, Girasole, The Tiger Club, Zuyd and Beers & Barrels. Fancy something sweet? Then go for a piece of cheesecake at the cozy In kannen & Kruiken. Best in town!

Breda regularly hosts fun events, such as Breda Barst, BredaPhoto, Cultuurnacht and Breda Jazz. The Stedelijk Museum Breda is also recommended for a (first) time visit in Breda. Do you prefer to explore nature? Within a few minutes you are at the beautiful Mastbos where you can make beautiful walks.

Hotel tips in Breda

• Hotel Nassau:   a special and luxurious hotel, located in an old monastery right in the center of Breda. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Bliss Boutique Hotel:  a four star, contemporary boutique hotel in the center of Breda. Check out the prices and availability here .

9. Den Bosch: Experience the traditions and heritage of The Netherlands

Written by Jasmine Buckley of The Life of a Social Butterfly.

Despite its location only an hour by train outside Amsterdam, Den Bosch (or ‘S Hertogenbosch) is often a city overlooked by tourists visiting The Netherlands.

Den Bosch is a wonderful city to visit for those looking for a glimpse into the traditions and heritage of The Netherlands. A city filled with old-world charm, a myriad of quaint cobblestone streets and scenic canal routes meandering beneath the surface. Den Bosch is the place to discover unique art, shop in local Dutch stores and enjoy a traditional Bossche Bol (a delicacy from Den Bosch, which is a chocolate-covered puff pastry filled with whipped cream). The best place to enjoy a Bossche Bol is at confectioners Jan De Groot.

One of the best-loved things about The Netherlands is the canals and Den Bosch is no exception. Take a boat tour of the medieval Binnendieze and pass beneath centuries-old buildings, whilst listening to the intriguing tales of the city’s past.

Gothic St John’s Cathedral, Old City Hall and the Markt Square give visitors a taste of an old-world Netherlands. Market days are on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays if you want to get a feel for Dutch life in the city.

If you’re not exploring the quaint streets Molenstraat and Uilenberg, be sure to check out Den Bosch’s unique local stores and restaurants on Korte Putstraat. Robbies is the city’s most popular concept store. Locals in Den Bosch are proud of their heritage and you will find an array of intriguing local stores that you will not find elsewhere in The Netherlands. Read more about shopping in Den Bosch here .

Hotel tips in Den Bosch

• Uylenhof Hotel:  this unique hotel is positioned over an arched canal bridge with beautifully furnished luxury apartments located a stone’s throw away from the city’s main attractions. Check prices and availability here .
• Hotel Julien:  this is a perfect hotel for couples. The location is perfect and the rooms are comfortable and beautiful. Check prices and availability here .
• Best Western Plus City Centre Hotel Den Bosch: this hotel is located right in the center of Den Bosch. Check out prices and availability here .

10. Zwolle: Old Hanzestad filled with cute boutiques and cafes

Photo and text by Lotte of Phenomenal Globe.

Zwolle is a lovely city located in the northeast of the Netherlands which can easily be reached by train from both Utrecht and Amsterdam. I know Zwolle very well, as I went to high school in Zwolle and still visit the city about once a month, as many of my friends live there.

Zwolle was founded around 1000 AD and given city rights in 1230. The city is home to approximately 130.000 residents and is the capital of the province Overijssel. There is a beautiful old city center surrounded by canals.

One of the must sees is the impressive Sassenpoort, which is listed in the top 100 of national monuments (and rightly so!). A great activity to do in Zwolle is to make a boat tour through the canals surrounding the city center. Alternatively you can climb the 75 meter high Peperbus (which obviously earned its nickname because it looks like a large pepper shaker).

Zwolle is also a great place to go shopping. You can find all most chains shops in the Diezerstraat, but make sure to wander around the little alleys branching of this street as there are lots of cute boutiques, such as Moonloft, with unique items!

Zwolle has lots of cute restaurants, cafes and bistros. I recommend Proefiz for lunch and Poppe for dinner. On a hot day, make sure to buy an ice cream at Salute, but be warned, the line can be long (always an indication something must be delicious and is worth queuing for).

Hotel tips in Zwolle

• Pillows Grand Hotel Ter Borch: this hotel has an excellent location in Zwolle. Check prices and availability here .
• Hotel Lumen Zwolle:  great service in a beautiful modern hotel. Check prices and availability here .

11. Gouda:  More than just the cheese!

Photo and text by Chrysoula of  Historic European Castles .

While most people only know Gouda in The Netherlands for its namesake cheese, there is actually a lot going on in this southern Dutch city for discerning travellers to enjoy. Of course, the weekly Gouda Cheese Market will be a real highlight (and will be where you want to stock up on cheesy souvenirs!), but the town’s historic buildings and museums are also well worth a visit.

The majority of Gouda’s historic highlights are located in and around the Markt Square which allows you to easily visit all the top sights in one go. Gouda’s Church of St. John is a breath-taking work of architecture, with stone columns and archways as well as epic stained-glass windows that have survived since the 15th century. The Gouda Stadhuis that stands in the centre of the Markt square is one of the most impressive buildings in the town, with a picturesque Gothic style making it unbelievably photogenic!

The Gouda Museum is another top spot with pottery, paintings and porcelain dating back to the 1800s. The Red Lion Windmill (Molen De Roode Leeuw) is a favourite sight in Gouda among travellers, with the sails moving gracefully around and reflecting in the nearby waters of the canal. This is a quintessential image of the Netherlands that will be one for the photo albums!

For those who want to enjoy the great outdoors, walks along the canal and through the Goudse Wood are a wonderful way to while away a few hours.

Last but by no means least, travellers visiting Gouda simply must try a delicious stroopwafel, a sticky, sweet layered treat that you’ll find in every cafe and bakery around the town!

Hotel tips in Gouda

• Anna aan de Motte:  this 5-star hotel is located just 300 meters of the Market and the old city hall. Check out prices and availability here .

12. Groningen: A city in the Netherlands you shouldn’t skip!

Photo and text by Daphne de Vries .

Groningen is a city that is often overlooked. Too far away from the rest of the Netherlands and that’s why people often opt for a different city. It’s a shame, because Groningen is very nice and has a lot to offer!

When in Groningen, be sure to visit the Folkingestraat & Zwanestraat, both voted the best shopping street in the Netherlands, and stroll through the fine, narrow streets. Go shopping or relax at terraces around the Vismarkt and on the Grote Markt. Stroll along the beautiful mansions in the Brug- and Astraat and along the Hoge and Lage der A. Enjoy the Noorderplantsoen, climb the Martini Tower and visit the Groninger Museum. Do you travel with children? Be sure to visit the Comic book Museum. Do not forget to get a pie at Bij Britta, have a drink at De Uurwerker, have lunch at Pernikkel and dine at Dot!

Hotel tips in Groningen

• The Student Hotel Groningen: just outside of the busy center, but still in walking distance of everything. Check out the prices and availability here .
• City Hotel Groningen: great location, as it’s in walking distance of touristic attractions. Check out the prices and availability here .

13. Maastricht: the most Southern city in the Netherlands

Photo and text by Sophie of Solo Sophie.

The most Southerly city in the Netherlands is that of Maastricht, a beautiful Dutch destination which is surrounded by rolling green hills and close to the border with both Germany and Belgium. Entirely different from the equally beautiful cities of Holland, the Dutch Limburg Capital boasts plenty of attractions, including walking opportunities, foodie experiences, and plenty of history.

Maastricht is perfect for a long weekend break, and not just because the city is easy to reach and even easier to get around (almost all of the city’s major things to do can be reached on foot, or better yet, by bicycle). Instead, highlights include taking a guided tour of the Maastricht Underground tunnels (a maze of underground routes covering over 10 km under the city), experiencing the free to visit Helpoort (the last medieval gate Maastricht has to offer), finding the best view of the city (be sure to head up the red tower of Sint-Janskerk), and shopping in Boekhandel Dominicanen (a bookstore housed in a former church). If you’re feeling a little peckish, then a trip to Bread and Delicious is an absolute must, while those who love luxury will enjoy the fact that 80% of Maastricht’s hotels are rated four-star or above!

For more inspiration for your time in Maastricht, be sure to read Sophie’s article with things to do in Maastricht !

Hotel tips in Maastricht

• Le Theatre Hotel:  this hotel has an excellent location in the center of Maastricht, directly at the Vrijthof. Check prices and availability here .
• Townhouse Maastricht:  this hotel has an excellent location in the center and has an eco-certificate of Planeet Care. Check prices and availability here .

14. Deventer: A Dutch city with amazing events

Photo and text by Kristy from Tassie Devil Abroad .

Deventer was part of the Hanseatic League; a trade union created by seven Dutch towns situated on the river IJssel during the 14th and 15th centuries. This union led to enormous prosperity and today all of these cities are worth a visit to see the beauty and history on display. Especially Deventer!

Deventer is full of beautiful old architecture and home to some great museums, art galleries and churches. It’s also the host of some fantastic yearly festivals. For instance, Deventer op Stelten, Deventer Boekenmark and the Dickens Festijn. During Deventer op Stelten the town hosts performers from around the world (many on stilts) for a weekend every July. Deventer Boekenmarkt is the largest book market in Europe and is held on the first Sunday of August. The town hosts around 878 book-stalls, with many rare and very old books on display and available to buy. And every year on the weekend before Christmas the Dickens Festijn (Dickens Festival) dresses up the historic Bergkwartier in Christmas finery and more than 950 characters are brought to life!

Hotel tips in Deventer

• Grand Boutique Hotel Huis Vermeer:  great location and is situated opposite of the Lebuniuskerk. Check out the prices and availability  here .

15. Giethoorn: The Dutch city without roads

Photo and text by Daniel Green from Cultural Trekking .

Giethoorn is a small town, about a 3-hour train ride North of Amsterdam. You may know Giethoorn as the Venice of the North or The city without roads. To get from house to house you must travel by boat. In the springtime it’s filled with flowers, budding trees, birds, and is often the location that is sought after for a Make a Wish Destination.

As I was here in the off-season, I was unsure if I would be able to take a tour of this unique city. I climbed onto the boat with four other passengers, which I was told was quite unusual. Normally, the boats in the spring are overflowing with tourists and the canals of Giethoorn are crammed with boats.

Our boat driver told us that this was once a Peat Moss farming community, which turned the area into lakes and ponds. The people of that time built their houses on the islands between the ponds. Giethoorn was named as such, due to the farmers unearthing ancient goat horns, they believe are from the flood that occurred in 1170. The name of Geytenhoren was given, and later was changed to Giethoorn.

Giethoorn holds a community of green thumb inhabitants. It’s a beautiful place, with beautiful people. The cottages on their peat moss mounds, the rolling clouds lazily floating by. It was almost as if I fulfilled my own Make a Wish dreams.

Interested in visiting Giethoorn? Be sure to check out some of the tours! Check out prices and availability here .

Hotel tips in Giethoorn

• Hotel de Harmonie:  charming, beautiful family run hotel. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Hotel B&B d’Olde Smidse: great location and has a terrace and possibilities for water sport activities. Check out the prices and availability here .

16. Leiden: Rembrandt’s birthplace and historic university city

Photo and text by Katy from Untold Morsels .

The historic university city of Leiden has many favourite Dutch icons in one neat package. Like Amsterdam, Leiden is built on a series of canals and waterways. So one of the best things to do is simply wander the streets and over bridges and admire the 17th century architecture. You won’t be able to resist stopping for a coffee or beer at one of the many canal side cafés in Leiden. We liked Vlot Grand – a cafe that actually sits on the water.

Leiden is famous for its university where Einstein often taught and being Rembrandt’s birthplace. And it was there that the Pilgrims raised the money needed to lease the Mayflower for their famous journey to the New World. Today the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum is one of many museums in the city. Dutch windmills are gorgeous and you can see one working right in the heart of Leiden. Molen De Valk, houses a museum and if you climb to the top there are beautiful views of the city. But for many people, fields of colourful tulips are the reason they visit the Netherlands. Leiden is the perfect base if you want to visit the nearby Keukenhof gardens in spring as it is right in the heart of tulip country.

Hotel tips in Leiden

• Hotel de Doelen:  lovely boutique hotel in an historic building overlooking the Rapenburg canal. Check out the prices and availability  here .
• Boutique Hotel d’Oude Morsch:  a historic, yet contemporary hotel at the edge of the center of Leiden. Check out the prices and availability here .
• De Barones Van Leyden:  an intimate four star hotel in the center of Leiden. Check out the prices and availability  here .

17. Edam: A buzzing fishing town

Photo and text by Inma of A World to Travel .

In the commune of Edam-Volendam, in the province of North Holland (north of Amsterdam), Edam is a small town that is well worth visiting. Especially in the warmer months of the year, from mid-spring to mid-autumn, when its streets are filled with people who enjoy its nature, take walks along its canals, drink coffee on its terraces and – among many other things – also try their cheese.

If you dare, a great experience is to explore Edam with the e-chopper. Last month I had the opportunity to do a bike tour from Oosthuizen to Edam, and it was one of the highlights of my trip through this region. At your own pace, and on roads that barely have traffic, you can understand how Holland gained ground to the sea, building polders that would retain it as it walks along the edge, appreciating the difference in sea level in relation to the country (significantly sunk).

Other popular activities in Edam – which was as important as Amsterdam, Hoorn and Enkhuizen in the past – include visiting the Volendam Museum, the Cheese Factory Volendam and taking a ride on the Rederij Volendam Marken Express ferry service. Enjoy!

Hotel tips in Edam

• l’Auberge Damhotel:  located conveniently on the Keizersgracht, this hotel is perfect to explore Edam. Check prices and availability here .

Other Dutch cities that are worth a visit

Even though this article is named the best cities in the Netherlands, it’s not completely true that the above cities are the absolute best to visit in the Netherlands. These cities are definitely highlights and most definitely worth a visit, but it’s just not possible to make an accurate list of all the cities in the Netherlands and saying that one is better than the other. Actually, there are many more cool cities and towns in the Netherlands that are definitely worth a visit! For instance Nijmegen, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Volendam, Middelburg, Muiden – just to name a few! This list could go on and on.

But the above list is definitely a great place to start for your visit in the Netherlands! Still in need for some more inspiration? Check out these 16 Cool Day Trips in the Netherlands .

Have you ever been to the Netherlands? What is your favourite city in my homecountry and what do you consider to be the best city in the Netherlands? 

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19 comments.

Thank you for sharing! Am really excited to visit some of the cities mentioned. Countdown to my trip in 5 days!!! Looking forward to visit Keukenhof!

Giethoorn is a truly beautiful place. It’s like story tale village. Without any disturbance we can enjoy. And ya.. flowers, trees, birds, and of course houses. Each scene … Woow. Really nice article.

This is so helpful! My husband and I met in Utrecht 15 years ago and are going back for our anniversary in the spring. We’ve got seven days and will make day trips to several of these places. If you were staying 3-4 nights in Utrecht, where would you stay the other 3-4 nights as a base? We’ve been to Amsterdam so many times, we don’t need to spent anymore time there, so were thinking Giethoorn but I’d love your advice! I’ve been to several of these towns like Zwolle and Leiden but it’s been so many years, I don’t remember them at all so I’d love to revisit a few.

I have only been to Amsterdam and Haarlem. I knew I missed a lot, but this is a good reminder that it is time for another trip to the Netherlands. You highlighted so many lovely cities, and many I had never heard of before.

Last summer we spent 14 days in the Netherlands. We were able to visit 4 locations on this list. Although Giethoorn was picturesque, in retrospect I would have skipped it. The paths along the canals are narrow and the throngs of tourists can make for slow walking. The charm of this location is easily enjoyed as a half day trip or for some lunch.

Hi Kiesha, I agree that Giethoorn is perfect for a shorter trip, especially in high season/during holidays when there are a lot of tourists! Thanks for your comment and for sharing your experience :).

love that you mentioned Groningen. not many tourists visit Groningen which is such a shame. it has such a unique vibe with the students, eateries and scenery.

Maastricht is another beautiful city in the south of holland, close to the Belgium border.

What a great round-up, I’m inspired to make a return trip to the Netherlands. Thanks for sharing some of the lesser-visited spots!

I want to visit ALL of these! I’ve only seen Amsterdam and I’ve had Delft on our list for ages, but now I’ll definitely be adding Groningen and Giethoorn. They look beautiful! My parents are currently living in Amsterdam, so I’ll be emailing them a link to your suggestions. I’m sure they’d love to check these out! 🙂

I’m heading to Amsterdam in May for 4 days but now I’m going to add Rotterdam and Hague to the itinerary. I cannot wait to see the skyline in Rotterdam, who knew it had so much architecture?! Thank you, this list is AMAZING!

I wish we had that list when we got stranded in Amsterdam last week with the beast from the east we had 4 extra days to explore and we are most def planning to go back and visit some of these gorgeous places

Ohh hope you still had a lovely time in Amsterdam, even though you got stranded there! Thanks 🙂

Great list! I live close to the dutch boarder and planned to see more from the Netherlands this year. Giethoorn and Rotterdam is on top of my list. Thanks for sharing 🙂

I still need to visit Giethoorn myself, but really want to! Thanks Maike 🙂

I loved this guide. I’m hoping to visit the Netherlands for the first time this year, and you’ve really opened my eyes to going beyond Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Will definitely be coming back to this post for some travel planning advice.

Thanks Alice!! I hope you do go beyond Amsterdam & Rotterdam and find the charms of the other Dutch towns and villages 🙂

WOw, each of these cities sound so cool and look beautiful! I really need to get over to the Netherlands. Thanks for this great list!

Yes, come visit! 😀

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18 Places to Visit in the Netherlands That Aren't Amsterdam

By Chris Schalkx

Take it from a born-and-raised Dutchman: There are plenty of places to visit in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam . If you stick to just the capital city, you’re only scratching the surface of this small-but-mighty country.

Look beyond Amsterdam’s tourist-thronged canal belt, and you’ll find plenty of villages plucked straight out of a classic painting by one of the Old Masters—windmills, tulips , swirling waterways, and all. There are sprawling national parks brimming with birdlife and criss-crossed with cycling trails , while envelope-pushing cities like Eindhoven and Rotterdam show that the country is a creative powerhouse too.

The best part? The national train network reaches all corners of the country, and its relatively small size puts even the most far-flung places within a day-trip distance from Amsterdam. Below, 18 places to visit in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam—from frozen-in-time villages to museum-packed cities —to consider adding to your itinerary.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Katherine LaGrave and Caitlin Morton.

Wrapped in the Dutch countryside within easy day-trip distance from Amsterdam, Zaandam once stood at the heart of the Dutch milling industry. Remnants of these glory days can be found at Zaanse Schans, a short drive north from downtown, where a stroll through its jumble of windmills and clapboard houses feels like stepping into a real-life version of an Old Masters painting. Downtown, the ubiquitous Zaan-style architecture has gotten a mind-bendingly modern makeover at the landmark Inntel Hotel (an Escher-esque mash-up of traditional Zaanse houses), and the Zaandam City Hall, which reinterprets the shapes of Zaanse houses into minimalist masterpieces.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zaandam in 15 minutes.

For Dutch standards, the two-hour train ride to this northern city is a nearly impossible schlep, but the picturesque journey through rolling farmlands is well worth it. Criss-crossed with canals and dotted with monumental churches, Renaissance-era gardens, and warehouses dating back to the 16th century, Groningen is packed with history. But as one of the country’s main university towns, the city has a surprisingly forward-thinking nightlife scene too. Most of the action happens around de Grote Markt (Big Market) square, which hosts a lively fish and food market by day, and turns into a party hub after dark.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam with a transfer in Utrecht or Almere bring you to Groningen in about two hours.

Thought this place was pancake-flat? Most of it is, yes—but Maastricht and the surrounding Zuid Limburg countryside prove that there’s more to this land than polders and endlessly flat farmland. Start off in Maastricht, the country’s southernmost major city, where you can walk through centuries worth of history in its cathedrals and limestone mines. After, venture into the undulating hills, forests, and meadows of Zuid Limburg via picturesque towns such as Valkenburg and Gulpen, from which miles of walking and cycling trails roll into every direction. The area’s close proximity to Belgium and Germany make it possible to visit all three countries within a single day.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Maastricht in two and a half hours.

This tiny village in the country’s northeast is often referred to as the “ Venice of the Netherlands,”and it’s easy to see why. With its thatched-roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges, Giethoorn seems to have come straight out of a fairytale. It’s best explored via its network of bike lanes and canals—either by boat, or by ice skating during the frozen winter months. For a lay of the land, make the Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus your first stop. Set in a former farm, this museum walks guests through Giethoorn’s fascinating history via historic artifacts, hand-written letters, and hands-on workshops on old-timey cottage crafts.

How to get there : Trains from Amsterdam bring you to Zwolle in about an hour, from where buses link to central Giethoorn.

This picturesque fishing village is Holland’s best-known for a reason: It’s filled with colorful wooden houses, bobbing fishing boats, and seafood stall after seafood stall dishing up fish and chips, smoked eel, and pickled herring piled high with onions (to be eaten like the Dutch: in a single gulp). Once you’ve had your share of Volendam, hop on a ferry across the Markermeer lake to Marken, another old-timey Dutch village on a small island some 30 minutes away.

How to get there : Bus 316 leaves from Amsterdam Central station and brings you to Volendam in around 30 minutes.

Imagine a scene of the bucolic Dutch countryside, and the village of Kinderdijk is probably what comes to mind. In other words: lots of windmills. The village’s 19 monumental mills were built in the early 18th century to prevent flooding and keep soil dry, and the mill network has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Some of the mills, including Blokweer and Nederwaard, are open to the public and function as fascinating museums that share a peek into the lives of the families that once inhabited them.

How to get there : Buses leave from Rotterdam and bring you to Kinderdijk in about 30 minutes.

Alkmaar has many intriguing museums and lots of medieval architecture worth checking out, but most visitors flock here for one reason: cheese. The town is known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place on Friday mornings from April to early September. There’s plenty to see in other months too, though: There’s a cheese museum located in the 16th-century Waagtoren tower, half a dozen hofjes (almshouses) with gorgeous courtyard gardens, and a handful of ornately decorated churches dating back to the 17th century.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Alkmaar in just over 30 minutes.

Haarlem’s cobbled streets and pretty canals make this northern Dutch city feel like Amsterdam without the tourist crowds. Even its museums are of a similar caliber, with the renowned Frans Hals Museum exhibiting pieces by Dutch Masters such as Frans Hals and Pieter Bruegel, and its ‘Hal’ wing showcasing contemporary works by international artists. There are historic churches, market squares and quaint hofjes to explore, while the miles of dunes rolling along the coast make for a perfect break away from the city.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Haarlem in 15 minutes.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

This park is one of the largest in the Netherlands, and within its 13,343 acres, counts rare wildlife, some of the most iconic buildings in the country, and the Kröller-Müller Museum , which showcases a collection of nineteenth and twentieth century art in addition to the largest private collection of Van Goghs. Zoom around on a (free) white bike—the park has about 1,700 on loan at central locations.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Apeldoorn in an hour, from where buses link to various points around the park.

Wadden Sea Islands

The five islands in the Wadden Sea, part of an archipelago of about 50 islands that stretches all the way to Denmark , are some of the country’s best places to unplug. Each one has a unique character, but all deliver seaside tranquility in spades—windswept dunes, cheeky seals, frozen-in-time villages and all. Seek out Texel, the largest of the bunch, for its wildlife-rich nature reserves; opt for largely car-free Schiermonnikoog, if it’s beachside hiking you’re after; or plan a trip to Vlieland during its annual Into The Great Wide Open festival around September, which transforms the island into a giant laid-back music and arts exhibition.

How to get there : Ferries from different cities on the mainland (including Harlingen) with a seasonally-changing schedule bring you to each island in about one to one and a half hours.

You can’t visit the Netherlands and not seek out some of its famous technicolor tulips. There are many places around the country to view the beautiful flowers , but the Keukenhof Gardens (open from March to May) and sprawling fields around the town of Lisse are a sure thing. The floral frenzy is at its peak around mid-April, when the annual Bloemencorse Bollenstreek parade of flower-adorned floats will travel from Noordwijk to Haarlem, with a stop at the Keukenhof along the way.

How to get there : The Keukenhof Express bus from various locations around Amsterdam and Schiphol airport brings you to the Keukenhof in about 30 minutes.

Many people flock to Delft for its eponymous blue pottery, but don’t overlook the town’s Renaissance architecture and Vermeer Centre museum (the Dutch painter, famous for such works as Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Milkmaid , was born and died here). The compact size of its historic center make it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls: Stop for coffee along its canals, browse Delftware in its numerous boutiques, and sample cheeses at the cafe-lined Markt square in front of the Nieuwe Kerk, where a lively local market pops up every Thursday.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Delft in an hour.

If you like technology and design, head to Eindhoven, a southern city home to some of the country’s most envelope-pushing museums and design academies. Seek out the Van Abbemuseum for its modern and contemporary art; stop at industrial park-turned culture hub Strijp-S; and hit up the Inkijkmuseum , a micro-museum located in a former washhouse. The city is at its best during the yearly Dutch Design Week (the largest design fair in northern Europe), which takes over Eindhoven’s creative spaces every October .

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Eindhoven in just under one and half hours.

Utrecht’s historic canal houses have two stories, and its centuries-old wharf cellars now serve as spots to enjoy food and drinks at water level—something unique to this city. You can also enjoy the towering churches and cozy cafes of Utrecht by bicycle, as it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. It’s also the perfect place for history buffs, with sites like the Dom Tower and Centraal Museum offering glimpses into the country’s past.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Utrecht in 25 minutes.

Beemster Polder

About thirteen miles north of Amsterdam, the Beemster region is a prime example of a Dutch polder—a flat piece of green farmland formed by draining a body of water. Aside from its cultural significance (it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999), the Beemster Polder is a gorgeous landscape, complete with little canals, windmills, and lush green fields. Make sure to stop by Middenbeemster, which, like most towns in the country, is impossibly charming.

How to get there : Buses from various locations around Amsterdam bring you to the Beemster in about 30 minutes.

Holland’s second-largest city lost most of its heritage buildings during World War II bombings, but now leads the way in envelope-pushing architecture. Its skyline is a highlight reel of works by architecture greats such as Rem Koolhaas, who designed the gravity-defying De Rotterdam tower that soars above the Meuse river. Other standouts include the quirky cube houses ( for rent on Airbnb !) by Dutch architect Piet Blom; the horseshoe-shaped Markthal building by local architecture firm MVRDV; and the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, a bowl-shaped metallic edifice that’s home to the Boijmans Van Beuningen’s 151,000-piece art collection.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to Rotterdam in 45 minutes.

Located near the Belgian border in the province of Limburg, Thorn is another one of those postcard-pretty Dutch hamlets with cobblestone roads and ancient churches. What makes Thorn unique, though, is its whitewashed architecture; at the Thorn Museum in the center of town, you’ll learn why this all-white look was an ingenious form of Medieval tax evasion. The other can’t-miss attraction is the 10th-century abbey church, which throughout history grew into a tiny kingdom ruled by noblewomen.

How to get there : From Amsterdam, trains to Weert take about two and a half hours, from where buses connect you to Thorn.

Amsterdam may be the capital, but the Dutch parliament meets in this stunning city on the North Sea. Within its Gothic-style Inner Court lie some of the country’s best museums, including an homage to M.C. Escher and the Mauritshuis (which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring ). Most locals, though, flock to The Hague for its beaches: long stretches of sand lined with lively boulevards, seafood restaurants, and breezy beach clubs.

How to get there : Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to The Hague in 50 minutes.

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Top 5 cities to visit in the Netherlands

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written by Jessica Cropper

updated 06.05.2024

With lively nightlife, beautiful scenery, and liberal values, the Netherlands is always a fail-safe holiday choice. As a world superpower in the 16th and 17th centuries, it gave rise many spectacular towns and cities, yet nowadays Amsterdam takes all the glory. If you travel a bit further afield (not that far, the Netherlands is small) you'll find plenty of other charming places to visit, and possibly a more authentic experience. To steer you in the right direction, here's our pick of the top five cities to visit in the Netherlands.

1. Rotterdam

2. the hague, 5. amsterdam, travel ideas for netherlands, created by local experts.

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

This trip will bring you the best of two countries: the Netherlands and Belgium. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities. This trip has it all.

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

You might visit Amsterdam for its history, but Rotterdam is the place to go for architecture aficionados. The city didn't fare well in the Second World War, and when it was rebuilt, the city council decided that instead of resurrecting the city as it was, it would be rebuilt with the future in mind.

The resulting post-war architecture and modernist skyscrapers make Rotterdam a treasure trove for design fans. Make sure you check out the Cube Houses, Nieuwe Luxor Theatre and the Van Nelle Factory. For more insight into the artistic movements that inspired these buildings head to the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen to see its exhibition on De Stijl and the Bauhaus, plus several centuries of Dutch and European art.

Rotterdam is also the largest port in Europe, from where hopeful Dutch families once emigrated to New York, or New Amsterdam as it was once known. You can learn more about Rotterdam’s nautical past at the Maritime Museum.

Thinking of visiting the Netherlands? We can help! Try our new tailor-made trip service and enjoy a fully personalised trip planned just for you!

One of the grandest cities in the Netherlands, The Hague is the polar opposite of Rotterdam. The Dutch royal family lives here and the city is full of large, beautiful mansions, pretty parks and leafy streets. What it lacks in edginess it makes up for in casual, laid-back elegance, and it's a great city to visit for fine dining.

There are plenty of good museums to choose from too, like Museum Beelden an Zee – hidden in the sand dunes of the Scheveningen beach resort – which focuses on contemporary sculpture, to the Prison Gate Museum that brings alive tales of crime and punishment in years gone by (a great one for kids and adults alike). Before you leave make sure you see Vermeer's masterpiece Girl with a Pearl Earring at the Mauritshuis .

The grand buildings of the Binnenhof in The Hague © Tom Goossens/Shutterstock

If you're interested in military history, you'll be interested in Arnhem. The infamous Battle of Arnhem took place here in September 1944. Allied Forces tried, and failed, to capture what is now known as the John Frost Bridge in their plan to advance into Germany. Almost 2,000 Allied troops died in the battle (mainly British and Polish forces) along with some 1,300 German soldiers and close to 500 Dutch civilians.

Most of the Allied soldiers are buried at the Oosterbeek War Cemetery , a visit to which is a sobering yet worthwhile experience. To find out more about Arnhem’s role during the war, you can also visit the Arnhem War Museum. The city is also featured in our new book Travel the Liberation Route Europe which commemorates the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Europe.

Windmills at the Open Air Museum in Arnhem © Wunigard/Shutterstock

Gouda is a cheese-lover’s paradise, of course, but did you also know the city is also famous for its pottery and waffles? Apparently the now ubiquitous-in-Starbucks stroopwafel was invented here in the 19th century.

But back to cheese for a moment… If you're in town on a Thursday make sure you head to the cheese market held in the beautiful town square from 10:00am-12:30pm from April to August. The market is a full-on celebration of things Dutch – national costumes, clogs, huge wheels of cheese and traditional crafts, plus merchants and farmers clapping hands in the traditional way each time they agree on a deal.

If you haven’t had your fill of cheese after that, you can also visit the Cheese and Crafts Museum in Goudse Waag building, where you can watch how cheese is made.

For a souvenir that won't make you put on weight, you can buy some of your very own traditional Gouda pottery at shops in the town, or at the annual ceramics market held at the end of May.

A cheese shop displays its wares in Gouda © symbiot/Shutterstock

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The draw of Amsterdam is clear to see: the city is an Instagrammer's dream, with gorgeous 17th-century architecture and quaint cobbled streets. If you haven't been before, make sure you see the most obvious sights – the Rijksmuseum , Anne Frank’s House , and Van Gogh Museum all worth your time and money. The city also boasts a solid list of free entertainment .

After this, take the time to soak in the laid-back vibes, wandering along the canals and sampling a craft coffee or craft beer at one of the many excellent cafe bars.

Amsterdam's nightlife is a wholly unique experience – running the gamut from hardcore Club NYX (which even has a DJ booth in the toilet), or Progress Bar, which mixes socially progressive talks and events with epic club nights.

Start planning your trip by choosing your accommodation with our guide to the best places to stay in Amsterdam .

Amsterdam is packed with classic and charming canal views © S.Borisov/Shutterstock

Find more holiday ideas in the Netherlands with our guide to the best things to do in the Netherlands .

For more information on these cities and the rest of the country, purchase the newly updated Rough Guide to the Netherlands .

Top image: Goudas cheeses in the window © Jose Luis Carrascosa/Shutterstock

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7 Cities & Towns you Must Visit in the Netherlands

My time in the Netherlands came and went in a flash. But if we’re being particular it lasted 8 days and 7 nights, all of which were jam-packed. So if you’re wondering which cities you must visit in the Netherlands, these are my top picks.

Throughout my time here in the land of bicycles and miniature pancakes I was eager to see, do and taste as much as possible. Although I didn’t quite get to every pitstop I had planned, I did manage to see and do everything I wanted in each of the cities I did visit, making up for quality over quantity.

Let’s dive in!

Cities and towns you must visit in the Netherlands

An obvious starting point: Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most visited cities and with one picture or postcard, it isn’t hard to see why. This city, built on canals with wonky houses, would have to be one of the world’s most photographed cities if not  the most.  Be sure to wander around at leisure and leave yourself three days here (minimum) as there’s  a lot  to see and do. In terms of museums make sure you don’t miss the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Elsewhere be sure to visit Singel Canal, Keizersgracht Canal, Vondelpark and Jordaan neighbourhood.

My next stop in the Netherlands was to catch the (30 minutes-ish) train ride to The Hague , which is better known to the Dutchies as  Den Haag.  As the centre for global judiciary decisions, I had been eager to visit since my first two years of law school (of which I dropped out of to complete a political science degree). This city was as grand as I had envisioned, with beautiful architecture and perfectly manicured gardens at every turn.

image via Flickr

You can reach Leiden by train from Amsterdam in less than 30 minutes, or by train from The Hague in just 10. Pronounced “LIE – DEN”, this city is a great pit stop if travelling between one Dutch city and another, dropping your bags at the train station and exploring for a day. With canals and quintessentially Dutch architecture, this is a great alternative to the tourist-heavy streets of Amsterdam.

By far the cutest city I came across in all of the Netherlands and even one of the most charming in all of Europe, I cannot believe it has taken me so many years of travel to discover Delft! Just a few minutes by train from The Hague, Delft has the charm of a small town with the benefits of a sizeable city nearby (not to mention some of the world’s best gelato!)

Described to me as Amsterdam’s cooler little sister, Utrecht is a city like no other in the Netherlands and perhaps even in Europe (though it kind of reminded me of the effortless coolness of Antwerp and Ghent in Belgium). Utrecht doesn’t have many sights or attractions, but has plenty of cool cafes, eateries and boutiques to discover. Its the kind of city you can visit and feel like a local within minutes.

Image via Flickr

Perhaps the “coolest” city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is in a league of its own. Modern and design-focused, Rotterdam was completely wiped out by the Germans in in 1940 as a sign of power to the rest of the country who might similarly meet the Germany army with resistance. For this reason Rotterdam is extremely unique to the Netherlands, as it does not have an old town centre or appear alike any of the other cities in the country, though it does have a widespread reputation for architecture and design.

Well and truly in the south of the Netherlands is Maastricht, another interesting city I discovered on my travels through the country and one that I found a great base to explore from. With a unique location near to the Belgium border and not far from France or Germany, this is a great city to base yourself in for day trips to explore nearby Cologne, Liege, and you could even travel down in to Luxembourg! The city itself warrants a couple of days to explore – Maastricht iss a beautiful city with a well-deserved gastronomic reputation. Of all the cities you must visit in the Netherlands, I think Maastricht is the most underrated.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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• UEFA Euro 2024
• COPA AMÉRICA
• SPORTS & TEAMS
• PERSONALITIES

Euro 2024 schedule, fixtures: Dates, times, TV channels, bracket, how to watch

The 2024 European Championship is here! Here's everything you need to know ahead of Euro 2024. For more, check out 10 can't-miss group games , as well as a full group-by-group breakdown .

How do I watch Euro 2024 in the United States?

The full tournament will be broadcast on the FOX family of networks from June 14-July 14, 2024 in Germany.

Alexi Lalas' Top 10 Power Rankings for the UEFA Euro 2024 | EURO Today

Euro 2024 Schedule

Here are the key dates for the Euro 2024 tournament:

• Group stage: June 14 to June 26
• Round of 16: June 29 to July 2
• Quarterfinals: July 5 and 6
• Semifinals: July 9 and 10
• Final: July 14

Below you can find the date and time for each game. All times Eastern.

Group Stage Schedule

• Slovenia vs Serbia , 9 a.m. (FS1)
• Denmark vs England , 12 p.m. (FS1)
• Spain vs Italy , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Slovakia vs Ukraine , 9 a.m.
• Poland vs Austria , 12 p.m. (FS1)
• Netherlands vs France , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Georgia vs Czechia , 9 a.m.
• Turkey vs Portugal , 12 p.m. (FOX)
• Belgium vs Romania , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Switzerland vs Germany , 3 p.m. (FS1)
• Scotland vs Hungary , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Croatia vs Italy , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Albania vs Spain , 3 p.m. (FS1)
• Netherlands vs Austria , 12 p.m. (FS1)
• France vs Poland , 12 p.m. (FOX)
• England vs Slovenia , 3 p.m. (FOX)
• Denmark vs Serbia , 3 p.m. (FS1)
• Slovakia vs Romania , 12 p.m. (FS1)
• Ukraine vs Belgium , 12 p.m. (FOX)
• Czechia vs Turkey , 3 p.m. (FS1)
• Georgia vs Portugal , 3 p.m. (FOX)

Group Stage Scores

• Croatia 2, Albania 2
• Germany 2, Hungary 0
• Scotland 1, Switzerland 1
• Turkey 3, Georgia 1
• Portugal 2, Czechia 1
• Romania 3, Ukraine 0
• Slovakia 1, Belgium 0
• France 1, Austria 0
• Netherlands 2, Poland 1
• Slovenia 1, Denmark 1
• England 1, Serbia 0
• Switzerland 3, Hungary 1
• Spain 3, Croatia 0
• Italy 2, Albania 1
• Germany 5, Scotland 1

Bracket Stage - Round of 16

• 2A vs 2B, 12 p.m.
• 1A vs 2C, 3 p.m.
• 1C vs 3D/E/F, 12 p.m.
• 1B vs 3A/D/E/F, 3 p.m.
• 2D vs 2E, 12 p.m.
• 1F vs 3A/B/C, 3 p.m.
• 1E vs 3A/B/C/D, 12 p.m.
• 1D vs 2F, 3 p.m.

Quarterfinals

• W39 vs W37, 12 p.m.
• W41 vs W42, 3 p.m.
• W40 vs W38, 12 p.m.
• W43 vs W44, 3 p.m.
• W45 vs W46, 3 p.m.
• W47 vs W48, 3 p.m.

Euro 2024 Final

• W49 vs W50, 3 p.m.

Euro 2024 Groups

A1: Germany   A2: Scotland A3: Hungary A4: Switzerland

B1: Spain B2: Croatia B3: Italy B4: Albania

C1: Slovenia C2: Denmark C3: Serbia C4: England

D1: Poland D2: Netherlands D3: Austria D4: France

E1: Belgium   E2: Slovakia E3: Romania E4: Ukraine

F1: Turkey F2: Georgia F3: Portugal   F4: Czechia

Who are some of the top stars expected to play at Euro 2024?

Kylian Mbappe will lead France at Euro 2024, its first major international tournament since the 2022 FIFA World Cup , which it lost in penalties to Argentina . France is stacked with world-class talent at every position, but especially in the attack with names like Antoine Griezmann , Olivier Giroud , Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani .

England will be looking to avenge its loss in the Euro 2020 final with a title-winning run in 2024, and it has reason to believe it can do it with one of the most in-form players in world soccer, Jude Bellingham . The 20-year-old will be the centerpiece of a group that already includes household names such as Harry Kane , Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka .

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to star for Portugal at Euro 2024 after a disappointing run at the 2022 World Cup. The only other players over 35 years old that are likely to have prominent roles for their countries are Croatia's Luka Modrić , Germany's Manuel Neuer and Giroud.

Premier League stars Kevin De Bruyne and Virgil van Dijk will also be at the tournament.

Best reads ahead of Euro 2024

+ Which matches in the group stage are can't-miss? Doug McIntyre highlights the games you have to see. ( Read more )

+ Which group is the Group of Death? Let's just say watch out for Group B. Here's our full breakdown of the groups. ( Read more )

+ Of all the chapters of Cristiano Ronaldo's career, the one taking place right now is without question among the most surprising. It looked like most of the book on Ronaldo's time at soccer's peak was written. Yet here we are, with Ronaldo having quietly pieced together a spectacular comeback year, while Portugal enters next summer's European Championship as one of the favorites. And no, those two things are not coincidental. ( Read more )

+ There will be a notable absentee from next year's European Championship: Erling Haaland . It could also impact his ambitions of winning the Ballon d'Or award next year and being confirmed the world's No. 1 soccer player. How could it impact the race? ( Read more )

+ Betting the tournament? England and France are the pre-tournament betting co-favorites to win the title. ( Read more )

+ Big money at stake: UEFA said it will pay $360 million in total prize money to the 24 national teams at the 2024 European Championship that is expected to earn about $2.61 billion in commercial revenue. ( Read more )

More soccer on FOX

Also this summer, the FOX family of networks will broadcast the 2024 Copa América from June 20 to July 14 in 14 cities across the United States. Here's everything you need to know about a tournament that will be highlighted by the United States men's national team and defending champion Argentina with superstar Lionel Messi , along with Mexico and Brazil .

What should England do about its Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden problem?

Cristiano Ronaldo headed for another selection ruckus caused by sentimental storyline

Euro 2024 daily recap: Germany advances to Round of 16; Croatia drops points late

Euro 2024: Croatia salvages 2-2 draw with Albania, leaving both in tough spot

Euro 2024 daily recap: Portugal salvages all 3 points with stoppage time goal

Germany-Hungary, Wednesday Euro predictions, picks by Chris ‘The Bear’ Fallica

Germany is lively, young and has a shot at unbeatable Euros history

Jamal Musiala fires Germany into knockout stage, surges to top of scoring race

FOX Soccer NOW: Top 5 goals of Euro 2024 so far

UEFA Euro 2024 odds, picks: France favorite as Mbappé's status in question; England tumbles

As 100 million broil under heat dome, more 'unbearable' temps on the way: Live updates

ARLINGTON, Va. − Excessive heat advisories, watches and warnings blanketed the first day of summer Thursday for more than 100 million Americans from Chicago to Caribou, Maine − and more heat was on the way.

Meteorologists are blaming a heat dome , a powerful high-pressure system that traps hot air over a region and prevents cool air from getting in while causing ground temperatures to remain high.

The searing heat rolling across the northeastern tier will make its way to the mid-Atlantic in coming days. This Washington, D.C., suburb is facing the prospect of 100 degrees by Sunday. High temperatures here are forecast to remain above 90 degrees for the next two weeks.

New England is under siege. The National Weather Service forecast a high of 98 degrees for a second consecutive day in Boston. The same temperature on Wednesday broke a record of 96 degrees for the date that stood for more than 100 years. Worcester, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, also broke 100-year-old records, and Hartford, Connecticut, was forecast to see 97 degrees, one day after the same temperature broke a record of 95 set in 1995.

"Millions (are) at the mercy of a prolonged stretch of 90-degree Fahrenheit temperature," AccuWeather Meteorologist Renee Duff said. "The longevity of the intense heat will put additional strain on residents and electrical infrastructure."

Developments:

∎ In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams was opening cooling centers − and promoting local parks. "Temperatures are still rising, so find safe ways to stay cool," he said in a social media post. " @NYCParks provide great options from our beautiful beaches to refreshing sprinklers and shady benches."

∎ The temperature in and around Pittsburgh could feel like 110 degrees through Saturday. The heat index in northwest Ohio and northern Indiana could reach 102 through Friday.

∎ Kroger supermarkets are providing a great way to cool off . To celebrate the official start of the summer season, Kroger  is giving away 45,000 pints of ice cream. Visit  FreeKrogerIceCream.com  and download a limited-time, single-use digital coupon available only on Thursday while supplies last.

∎ Organizers of the Pride Parade and Festival in Cincinnati are bracing for extreme heat on Saturday , when it is expected to reach 95 degrees. They plan to give out free sunscreen, Liquid IV packets, and will set up areas with misters, fans and water stations.

∎ Some school districts in north New Jersey dismissed students early due to the heat this week. Clifton High School rescheduled its commencement ceremony on Thursday to the evening to avoid the scorching afternoon temperatures.

Here comes the heat: Cities have been getting ready for the heat onslaught

Heat-related hospital visits tick up in cities hit by heat

Hospitals are seeing the effects heat is having on residents in cities hit by the heat wave, as health officials say they worry about the most vulnerable populations due to age, housing or health status.

Columbus, Ohio, emergency rooms have seen 37 admissions for heat illness since Monday, the city's health department sai d. Nineteen of those had to be transported by ambulance.

Franklin County Coroner spokesperson Kelli Newman said the spike is above the norm for Columbus, but comparable to other heatwaves Columbus has experienced.

In Erie, Pennsylvania , UPMC Hamot has treated 20 patients with heat-related illnesses so far this week, while Saint Vincent has treated another eight. Eight of Hamot's patients arrived at the hospital on Wednesday, the third day of the heat wave.

"We're seeing people who are dehydrated, or suffering from heat exhaustion or heat cramping," said Jason Chenault, Hamot's senior director of emergency and critical care services. "Most of them are getting rehydrated with IV fluids and discharged, though some of them have been admitted."

Temperatures rose to 91 at Erie International Airport on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Monday's high set a record for the date, while Tuesday's and Wednesday's highs each fell one degree short of the record.

"People's bodies are just not prepared to deal with this kind of heat this early in the year," said Dr. Chris Cammarata, Hamot's director of emergency medicine. "I worry about those who have to work outside for days in a row when the temperatures are this high."

Thomas Sherry, 64, was sweating profusely Thursday morning after he walked along Peach Street in Erie for nearly 20 blocks.

Sherry, who had spent the previous days of the heat wave cooling off at the Mental Health Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania, said he was not allowed to go inside Thursday due to a disagreement.

Despite the hot weather, Sherry said things could be worse.

"It's much better than winter," Sherry said as he held a quart-size bottle of water.

-David Bruce, the Erie Times-News ; Samantha Hendrickson and Bailey Gallion, the Columbus Dispatch

'Nothing that we can't handle': Hard-hit Maine residents enduring

Rebecca Matley has noticed difficulty breathing this week. 

The worst she felt was on Wednesday, when the northern Maine city she lives in, Caribou, hit a record-breaking heat index of 103 degrees, making it hotter than Miami.

“Just going from the car to the door you can feel it,” she said.

The 22-year-old works as a barista at The Maine Bean & Tea, where the heat has caused a surge in sales of the shop’s blue raspberry slushie.

“We’re lucky we had a lot of it in stock before Wednesday,” she said.

Shelly Gagnon and her family sought relief at Cross Lake, where they spent their Wednesday evening in the cool water. The 46-year-old said the only routine the heat has interrupted is her morning and nightly walks with her two golden retrievers, Harper and Lucy.

Other local waterways and public pools have been inundated with residents seeking a respite from the oppressive heat.

For the last two days, the splash pad at the Caribou recreation center has been “absolutely packed full,” said Gary Marquis, the superintendent of parks and recreation for the city.

On Thursday night, about 2,000 people will attend Caribou’s biweekly street fair, he said. Local government agencies will be providing water and firefighters in a ladder truck will be “spraying off the kids.”

“It's amazing how people will still come out when it's this hot and enjoy good music and enjoy all the vendors,” he said. “This heat is an inconvenience for a couple days, but it's nothing that we can't handle.”

− Christopher Cann

Here's where heat records were broken

Temperatures broke records all across the region impacted by the heat wave, forecasters said. Here were some records met or broken on Wednesday:

• Boston, Massachusetts , got to 98 degrees on Wednesday, breaking the previous record of 96 degrees for the same date in 1923.
• In Hartford, Connecticut, temps reached 97, breaking the day's record of 95 in 1995.
• The National Weather Service in Caribou, Maine , said the cities of Millinocket, Houlton and Bangor all tied previous records at 95 degrees.
• Albany , New York, also tied its daily 1995 record at 94 degrees.
• Elkins, West Virginia, set a record high temperature for the second day in a row on Wednesday, when it reached 90 degrees, breaking the 89-degree record set in 1905. Another record could be hit Thursday, forecasters said.
• Record warm low temperatures were met or broken in Indiana . Fort Wayne met a record set in 1995 of 75 degrees, while South Bend's low was 76 degrees, breaking the 75-degree record set in 2012.

Climate change linked to lengthy heat wave

The deadly heat wave that scorched much of North America in early May and early June – and is still baking the central and eastern U.S. – was made 35 times more likely because of human-caused climate change,  a scientific study  released Thursday says.

The heat wave has killed at least 125 people and led to thousands of heat stroke cases in Mexico, where the heat was particularly intense. Scientists say heat waves will continue to intensify if the world continues to unleash climate-warming emissions from the burning of fossil fuels.

“The results of our study should be taken as another warning that our climate is heating to dangerous levels," said study co-author  Izidine Pinto, a researcher at the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute. Read more here .

− Doyle Rice

Heat wave linked to climate change? Eye-popping numbers suggest so.

Long lines for ice cream in Maine

Lilly Goodwin, a manager at Jimmie's Ice Cream & Grill in Brewer, Maine, told USA TODAY the heat wave has fueled a surge in customers. The 22-year-old said the scorching weather “came out of nowhere” and led to long lines as sweaty patrons ordered and waited patiently for their strawberry, vanilla and chocolate cones.

“We’ve been very very busy,” said Goodwin, who lives in the Bangor area, which tied a 29-year record high of 95 degrees on Wednesday. “I’m glad our AC is working. It’s been working extra hard.”

On the same day, afternoon temperatures broke and tied records across the state. The city of Millinocket reached a record 97 degrees Wednesday.

"It's unbearable," said Maria Rowe, owner of the Yum Bake Shop in Millinocke. "When working in the hot kitchen, it just makes it so much worse."

Power companies prepared for high demand

In New York, Con Edison President Matthew Ketschke said the company has opened a command center because of the high demand for electricity and is ready to dispatch crews if necessary. But he said he expects no widespread problems.

"We ask people to generally be smart about their energy usage through a high-load period like this," he said. "Defer energy intensive things like running the dishwasher or laundry until later in the evening when demand goes down. Otherwise the grid is pretty much ready."

Across New England, a region-wide abnormal conditions power alert was in effect. ISO New England, a non-profit regional power transmission agency, projects demand to peak Thursday evening at the highest level of the season so far. But the agency anticipates having the "necessary resources" to meet demand.

"System operators have tools at their disposal if unexpected conditions materialize," the agency said in a statement.

In Virginia, Dominion Energy spokesperson Aaron Ruby said the power system is "fully prepared" for the heat and thus far is performing well.

"We’re coordinating closely ... to ensure the reliability of the grid throughout the heat wave, not only in Virginia but across the entire 13-state regional grid," Ruby said in a email to USA TODAY.

World could again break record for heat this summer

The dangerous heat is not limited to the United States. Cities on four continents are scorching, an early sign that a season of record-breaking heat could surpass last summer as the warmest in 2,000 years. The World Meteorological Organization says there is an 86% chance that one of the next five years will eclipse 2023 to become the warmest on record.

In Saudi Arabia, where nearly 2 million Muslim pilgrims are finishing  the haj in Mecca this week, hundreds have died during the journey amid temperatures 120 degrees. Egyptian medical and security sources said Thursday that at least 530 Egyptians alone had died.

In India, New Delhi on Wednesday registered its warmest night in at least 55 years, with India's Safdarjung Observatory reporting a temperature of 95.4 degrees at 1 a.m.

Alberto makes landfall in Mexico

Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of 2024, made landfall in Mexico and was downgraded to a tropical depression, moving to the west at 18 mph with sustained winds of 35 mph.

Three deaths in Mexico were blamed on the storm. But officials there were also crediting Alberto which delivering much-needed rains to the drought strickent region. 

The storm is forecast to dump up to 20 inches of rain across parts of northeast Mexico with nearly a foot of rain expected throughout southern Texas. Such high rainfall totals will likely produce "considerable flash flooding and urban flooding" as well as possible mudslides across northern Mexico, the National Hurricane Center said .

Alberto makes landfall: Danger looms for Texas

How do you stay safe in the heat?

The weather service is urging people to avoid the outdoors in the heat of the day. If that isn't an option, look for shade and drink plenty of water. Temperatures inside closed-up cars can reach deadly heights in minutes, so children and pets absolutely cannot be left in them.

People at greatest risk are young children, elderly people, outdoor workers and those with chronic diseases, mental illness or people taking certain medications that make it difficult to regulate their body temperatures, experts say . Additionally, those without access to reliable AC are at risk, as are others who live in areas called urban heat islands that have little green space and are warmer because of more pavement and buildings.

− Michael Loria

Here's how to keep cool: Stay safe during this week's heat wave that is hitting millions

Contributing: Christopher Cann, USA TODAY; Reuters

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How to watch the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament: Where to stream games, broadcast schedule and more

Soccer — or football — fans, are you ready for the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament? Today, Europe’s prestigious international soccer tournament continues with Slovenia vs. Serbia (9 a.m. on FS1), Denmark vs. England (12 p.m. on FS1) and Spain vs. Italy (3 p.m. on FOX). Between June 14 and July 14, there will be 51 games to keep up with at the Euro 2024. Need help figuring out how to watch every live Euro 2024 match? We’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about the UEFA Euro tournament, including the broadcast schedule, where to watch Euro 2024 matches free and more.

Looking for how to watch the Copa America 2024 ? We've got you covered there too.

How to watch Euro 2024 games:

Watch every euro 2024 match.

Dates: June 14 - July 14, 2024

Location: Germany

TV channel: FOX, FS1

Streaming: Fubo, DirecTV, VPN

When is UEFA Euro 2024?

Euro 2024 kicked off on Friday, June 14. The tournament continues today with Slovenia vs. Serbia (9 a.m. on FS1), Denmark vs. England (12 p.m. on FS1) and Spain vs. Italy (3 p.m. on FOX).

What channel is Euro 2024 on in the US?

2024 Euro matches will air across FOX networks Fox and Fox Sports 1 (FS1). Five Euro 2024 matches will also air exclusively on Fubo (in the US).

How to watch the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament without cable:

Watch fox, fs1 and the fubo exclusive games.

Fubo TV’s Pro tier will get you access to FOX and FS1. Plus, Fubo is the exlcusive home of five Euro 2024 matches in the US. So it's the only subscription on this list that will get you every Euro game. Fubo will also get you 190 other live channels. So if you're a sports fan looking for one simple subscription, Fubo might be it for you. Fubo subscribers also get 1000 hours of cloud DVR storage. The platform offers a free trial period, so you can stream the start of the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament totally free. 

DirecTV Stream

Watch fox, fs1, youtube tv + sports add-on, where to watch euro 2024 matches for free:.

While in the US, you'll need a cable package or live TV streaming subscription to catch every Euro 2024 match, the soccer tournament is airing worldwide — and in some countries, it'll be streaming live for free!

In Ireland, coverage will stream free (and in English!) on RTE Player . In Germany, the tournament will air/stream on ZDF and ARD . In France , it’ll be on TF1 . In Spain, RTVE . In Italy, it’s on RAI . And outside of Europe, it’ll air free via TVNZ in New Zealand .

Don’t live in any of those places? Don't worry, you can still stream live Euro 2024 matches for free with the help of a VPN. A VPN (virtual private network) helps protect your data, can mask your IP address and is perhaps most popular for being especially useful in the age of streaming. Whether you’re looking to watch Friends on Netflix (which left the U.S. version of the streamer back in 2019) or tune in to the boxing match this weekend without paying the PPV prices, a VPN can help you out. Looking to try a VPN for the first time? This guide breaks down the best VPN options for every kind of user .

Stream free Euro 2024 coverage

ExpressVPN offers “internet without borders,” meaning you can catch free coverage of the Euro 2024 without shelling out for Fox, FS1 or Fubo. All you'll need to do is sign up for ExpressVPN, change your server location to Ireland, Germany, Spain, Italy, France or even New Zealand and then find free livestream coverage on one of the streaming platforms mentioned above. 

ExpressVPN’s added protection, speed and range of location options make it an excellent choice for first-time VPN users looking to stretch their streaming abilities, plus, it's Endgadget's top pick for the best streaming VPN . New users can save 49% when they sign up for ExpressVPN’s 12-month subscription. Plus, the service offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, in case you're nervous about trying a VPN.

Euro 2024 schedule key dates:

Group stage: June 14 to June 26

Round of 16: June 29 to July 2

Quarterfinals: July 5 and 6

Semifinals: July 9 and 10

Final: July 14

UEFA Euro 2024 Group Stage schedule:

All times Eastern

Germany vs Scotland, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Hungary vs Switzerland , 9 a.m.

Spain vs Croatia , 12 p.m. (FOX)

Italy vs Albania, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Poland vs Netherlands , 9 a.m. (FS1)

Slovenia vs Denmark, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Serbia vs England, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Romania vs Ukraine, 9 a.m.

Belgium vs Slovakia, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Austria vs France, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Turkey vs Georgia, 12 p.m.

Portugal vs Czechia, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Croatia vs Albania, 9 a.m. (FS1)

Germany vs Hungary, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Scotland vs Switzerland, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Slovenia vs Serbia, 9 a.m. (FS1)

Denmark vs England, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Spain vs Italy, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Slovakia vs Ukraine, 9 a.m.

Poland vs Austria, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Netherlands vs France, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Georgia vs Czechia, 9 a.m.

Turkey vs Portugal, 12 p.m. (FOX)

Belgium vs Romania, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Switzerland vs Germany, 3 p.m. (FS1)

Scotland vs Hungary, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Croatia vs Italy, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Albania vs Spain, 3 p.m. (FS1)

Netherlands vs Austria, 12 p.m. (FS1)

France vs Poland, 12 p.m. (FOX)

England vs Slovenia, 3 p.m. (FOX)

Denmark vs Serbia, 3 p.m. (FS1)

Slovakia vs Romania, 12 p.m. (FS1)

Ukraine vs Belgium, 12 p.m. (FOX)

Czechia vs Turkey, 3 p.m. (FS1)

Georgia vs Portugal, 3 p.m. (FOX)

More ways to watch the Euro 2024 tournament:

Sling tv blue, hulu + live tv, recommended stories, christian eriksen scores for denmark at euro 2024, three years after collapsing on the pitch.

Eriksen, who suffered cardiac arrest and collapsed on the pitch at Euro 2020, put Denmark up 1-0 over Slovenia with a beautiful strike.

Chicago Bulls trade Alex Caruso to Oklahoma City Thunder, receive Josh Giddey in return: Report

The trade marks a homecoming for Caruso, who started his career with the franchise, while sending Giddey to Chicago as a young playmaker.

Monty Williams out in Detroit, Jeff Van Gundy joins the Clippers & NBA Free agency preview | No Cap Room

Jake Fischer and Dan Devine go through the NBA news of the week, preview the start of free agency and do a vibe check on the Golden State Warriors.

Astros calling up pitcher Jake Bloss from Double-A to face Orioles on Friday

The Houston Astros are calling up pitcher Jake Bloss to face the Baltimore Orioles on Friday. There's no time for him to progress through the minors now.

Patriots sign RB Rhamondre Stevenson to 4-year, $36 million contract extension

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson agreed to a four-year contract extension with the New England Patriots, which could give him a shot at franchise history.

NASCAR: Gene Haas will keep a charter for a Cup Series team following closure of Stewart-Haas Racing

Haas' new team will be called Haas Factory Team and will also field two Xfinity Series cars.

7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux, world's tallest teenager, set to become tallest college basketball player ever

Olivier Rioux is tall, even for a basketball player.

Los Angeles Kings reveal new logo design inspired by Wayne Gretzky era

The Kings' new logo is heavily inspired by the '90s look sported by Gretzky in his peak, but features the 1967 crown and other slight updates.

Live from the 2024 MLB Draft Combine + JJ Wetherholt interview & Triple-A challenge system changing

Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman discuss being at the 2024 MLB Draft Combine, talk with potential first round draft pick JJ Wetherholt about his upbringing in baseball and get into why MLB is changing their review system in Triple-A.

U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials: Will Sha’Carri Richardson claim the throne?

Other countries provide a safety net for their track & field selection process to the Olympics. The U.S. does not, setting up a cutthroat but fair test to make the U.S. Olympic team.

Yankees ace Gerrit Cole pitches 4 strong innings in return from elbow injury, but Orioles prevail in extra innings

He wasn't perfect, but there was a lot to like about Cole's 2024 debut after he missed the start of the season due to an elbow injury.

Sources: NCAA presents new basketball tournament models that would expand field by 4 or 8 teams

The potential models shown to conference commissioners Wednesday would add additional at-large selections and at least one more First Four site.

Anthony Richardson's film, albeit limited, doesn't lie. There's supernova talent and plays waiting for the Colts

For Richardson to stay on this path of a true needle-moving QB, one with the upside of a perennial MVP candidate, he has to learn how to take care of his body and get down or rid of the ball a half-beat quicker.

Tiger Woods' son Charlie wins USGA qualifier to play in U.S. Junior Amateur championship

Charlie, 15, is the same age his father was when Tiger won the first of this three straight U.S. Junior Amateur championships in 1991.

T20 Cricket World Cup 2024: USA falls to South Africa in first Super 8 matchup despite late surge

Team USA's Andries Gous batted 80 runs but could not catch up to South Africa in the team's first game of the Super 8 knockout round.

Rich Paul says LeBron James, Bronny aren't a package deal as NBA draft looms

Will Bronny and LeBron James play together in the NBA?

Euro 2024: Kylian Mbappé will reportedly miss France's next match vs. Netherlands

Mbappé will not need surgery to repair his broken nose.

Pascal Siakam reportedly 'intends' to sign 4-year, $189.5M max deal to return to Pacers

Pascal Siakam is staying in Indiana.

Remembering baseball legend and Hall of Famer Willie Mays | Baseball Bar-B-Cast

Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman discuss the passing of Hall of Famer Willie Mays, his lasting impact on sports and society, the incredible stats he put up in his career and the Rickwood Field game that will mean even more now.

Sparks star rookie Cameron Brink carried off court with knee injury vs. Sun

Brink grabbed her knee in pain after falling to the court and needed the help of trainers to carry her from the court.