Holland is a place that somehow manages to be both full of energy and wonderfully relaxed. Here, bikes rule the streets, tulip fields paint the countryside in every color imaginable, and windmills remind you of a time when wind power kept the country moving. While most travelers gravitate toward the famous bustle of Amsterdam or the modern skyline of Rotterdam, we’re skipping those obvious stops to uncover a more authentic side of the Dutch landscape. In cities like Utrecht, canals double as streets and history feels closer to the surface. This guide takes you through a few of the best places to visit in the Netherlands: expect a mix of timeless landmarks, cultural experiences, and scenic spots that show why the country is one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is one of the Netherlands’ most famous open-air museums, with historic windmills and wooden houses bringing the 18th and 19th centuries to life. Once the center of a thriving industrial region, the Zaan River was lined with hundreds of working mills. Today, several remain, including De Zoeker (The Seeker) and De Bonte Hen (The Spotted Hen), which still grind oil and spices. One of the top destinations in the Netherlands, Zaanse Schans is a chance to see Dutch craftsmanship up close, from clog-making and cheese tasting to traditional green-painted houses that showcase life during the Dutch Golden Age.
Volendam
Volendam is a traditional fishing village on the shores of the IJsselmeer, known for its wooden houses, colorful harbor, and strong maritime heritage. A stroll along the waterfront reveals fish stalls, cafés, and boats moored in the busy marina. Visit this top destination in the Netherlands to sample fresh seafood, learn about local crafts, and see traditional Dutch clothing still worn for festivals and photos.
Edam
Edam is a postcard-perfect town with red-roofed houses, cobbled streets, and canals that reflect its long history. While the town is a world-famous cheese destination, it also prospered through fishing and shipbuilding. Today, visitors can stroll through historic streets, visit traditional cheese warehouses, and learn about the town’s seafaring heritage. If you visit in summer, try to catch the weekly cheese market — held for just eight weeks a year.
And Tulips… Keukenhof and Alkmaar
Every spring (2027?!), the Dutch landscape transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece as millions of tulips erupt into color. For a curated experience, Keukenhof in Lisse stands as the world’s largest flower garden. This 32-hectare park features over seven million bulbs, where winding pathways lead visitors through themed gardens and fragrant pavilions just a short trip from Amsterdam.
For those seeking a more rustic adventure, the countryside around Alkmaar offers an expansive patchwork of vibrant fields. Here, you can cycle past endless rows of red, yellow, and purple blooms that represent the heart of the Netherlands’ iconic three-billion-bulb export industry. Whether exploring the manicured beauty of Keukenhof or the windswept fields of Alkmaar, the region provides an unforgettable immersion into the "flower shop of the world."