- Werner Kunz / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
If you’re planning a trip throughout Europe anytime soon, don’t neglect to add the eclectic region of Holland to your list of destinations. Where else can you find endless mounds of tulips, 17th century architecture, whimsical windmills, endless bike trails and a vibrant culture? According to recent statistics, Holland, officially known as the Netherlands, saw record number of tourists in recent years … attracting 11.3 million in 2011.
The Netherlands, with its mix of attractions, activities and cultural highlights, is a wonderful destination to spend time while in Europe. Before setting out, make sure you also investigate the array of festivals held here. Some visitors time their vacations to coincide with their favorite events. And, as with any international trip, check travel warnings, passport/visa requirements and sign up for an international health insurance plan.
Whether you’re planning to visit for a few days or several weeks, you will find plenty to keep you entertained and engaged in the popular cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Check out these top 10 attractions and activities when exploring these delightful destinations.
Amsterdam
If you only have a few days to tour The Netherlands, make sure Amsterdam is your primary destination. This vibrant city boasts some of the top museums in the world, a mix of stunning modern and historical architecture, an array of canals and great shops, markets and cafes. Here are some stops you don’t want to miss while in Amsterdam:
1. Van Gogh Museum. A stop at this museum, which attracts more than 1.5 million visitors each year, will give you an intimate picture of one of the most influential artists in the history of art. The museum’s collection features more than 700 paintings and drawings as well as 750 written documents that reflect the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, the 19th-century post-Impressionist painter.
2. The Anne Frank House. The story of Anne Frank, who documented her family’s life in hiding during the persecution of the Jews, is known worldwide. This museum takes you into the home where they lived while trying to escape occupying Germans.
3. Canals. Whether you choose to ride alongside the canals on a bike or cruise them in a boat, exploring these waterways is a must. If you want to learn more about the history of the area and special highlights, book a canal tour. Consider a night tour of the Magere Brug, one of the most beautiful canal bridges in Amsterdam.
4. Red Light District. This city has earned a worldwide reputation for its Red Light District, particularly De Wallen, which is the largest. Expect to see an endless parade of prostitutes, brothels, adult stores and peep shows — all highlighted in red lights.
5. De Beemster. If nature is your thing, consider booking a bike tour that will take you through De Beester, an area that features The Netherlands’ picturesque grasslands, fields of tulips, farmlands and windmills.
Rotterdam
This expansive port city has a more contemporary vibe, with a skyline of modern architecture that’s breathtaking. Here are a few sites that should be on your itinerary:
6. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. With more than 140,000 pieces of artifacts, design and art dating back to the Middle Ages, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen ranks as one of the top in the world. You will find masterpieces by leading artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, Dali, da Vinci and Van Gogh.
7. Euromast Tower. For an unparalled view of the city, take a trip up the Euromast, the highest observation tower in the Netherlands. The view from the top provides you with a panoramic 360-degree view of the area. If you’re really adventurous, you have the option to abseil (rope slide) back down from the top.
8. Westelijk Handelsterrein. What trip is complete without a shopping excursion? Stop by Westelijk Handelsterrein, a bustling expanse of galleries, shops and restaurants — all housed in converted warehouses. At night, you will find plenty of nightclubs to keep you entertained.
The Hague
Known for its array of historic sites, art museums, monuments and government buildings, The Hague is among Holland’s most visited cities. It’s also situated along the North Sea coastline, another major attraction. Here are just a couple of the many things to check out while in The Hague.
9. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag. If you’re into modern art, a stop at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag is a must. It houses the world’s largest collection of artworks by Piet Mondriaan, as well as pieces by Monet, Picasso and Kandinsky.
10. Scheveningen. When you want to a great view of the coast, Scheveningen is where you want to head. Considered the Netherlands’ most popular seaside resort, it features a pristine beach for sunbathers and surfers, a pier and a promenade of theaters, museums, a bowling alley, restaurants and clubs.