Last updated on March 27th, 2023 at 01:27 pm
I have visited many of the cities in the Netherlands after living here for 2 years. As many know, Amsterdam is the main reason why people visit, but there are many other cities which are well worth exploring.
If you have an Amsterdam trip planned, why not extend the trip and pay a visit to some of the other less popular but beautiful places. Read on, to learn about my top 5 must visit places in the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam.
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If you are interested in paying a visit to the Dutch capital, be sure to read my post about what to do in Amsterdam in April
Maybe on your next European trip, you choose to discover the most popular Italian cities? Check out my post on Rome, Florence & Venice in 7 Days for a wonderful step by step itinerary.
Utrecht – A Less Touristy Amsterdam
Utrecht is a very charming, lively city. It is known to be the fastest growing and healthiest city in the Netherlands.
Built around the Dom tower, you can see it from anywhere in the city, you can even climb the tower if you wish. It gets better, many peaceful canals flow through the city centre. A great way to enjoy these canals is by taking a canal cruise.
What’s more, you can discover the boutiques and big brand shops that line the canals. My last recommendation is to see Castle de Haar, the largest and most luxurious castle in the Netherlands.
Lisse – Classic Tulip Field Views
Lisse is the heart of the flower bulb region. This is definitely a must visit if you are in the Netherlands between the months of March and May.
At this time, you can drive around the area and admire the colourful fields of flowers along the way and get out to take some pictures.
Even better, visit the Keukenhof and see the huge display of multiple varieties of flowers. There is a combination ticket that includes a round trip by bus from Amsterdam and entry ticket to the gardens here.
Giethoorn – Little Venice
Giethoorn is also known as the little Venice of the Netherlands. This village contains many hand-dug canals and small islands connected by over 150 bridges.
There is just one problem, visitors have to park outside the village as the town centre has no roads. But the good part is, you can rent whisper boats and sail them around the canals and onto the lake. It is a must do while in the Netherlands.
If you are in Amsterdam for a holiday, you can take a day trip to Giethoorn by bus with a boat tour included here.
Rotterdam – Modern Architectural Setting
Rotterdam is the architecture city of Holland, with its impressive Skyline and high rise buildings. It is also known for having the biggest Port in Europe.
Here are some of the things visitors should do in Rotterdam – visit the cube houses, go to the market hall (a bustling market full of international foods, in a colourfully designed, unique shaped building), you can walk along the Erasmus bridge and watch the boats come in and out from the port.
For an experience like no other, do a 1 hour sightseeing splash tour on an amphibious bus that drives through the city and cruises on the Maas River. Another great activity is to climb the Euromast Tower for 360 degree panoramic views of Rotterdam.
Maastricht – Historic Sites
Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in Holland. It is a nice city to walk about – take a stroll along the River Meuse, explore the narrow streets and discover the many shops.
Take part in some of the activities such as boat tours and walking tours if it takes your fancy. Apart from the Summer, December is also a good time to visit Maastricht as it hosts magical Christmas Markets.
I hope you enjoyed this post and that you get a chance to see these must visit places in the Netherlands. If you found it helpful, share with your friends. Lastly, if you have any questions, let me know in the comments.
Thanks for reading,
Lisa