The 5 Most Beautiful Dutch Cities To Visit Besides Amsterdam

While Amsterdam is a city worth exploring, the Netherlands offers much more than its capital. Some of the country’s other cities are peaceful, memorable, and less crowded, providing the perfect backdrop for picturesque adventures. Dive in, for some of the most beautiful Dutch cities across the country.

Utrecht

A 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam is the charming province of Utrecht. Embodying traditional Dutch characteristics (thinks canals, cobblestone streets, and wonky houses), the city has been steadily growing in popularity. If you’re planning a visit in summer, Utrecht is ideal to enjoy the canals — with several canal-side bars and restaurants. Looking for something more adventurous? Rent a kayak or boat, and explore the city from the water. Stay at the Best Western City Hotel Woerden, to be in the city center.

Leiden

If you’re longing for a city with the feel of Amsterdam, but without the crowds, escape to Leiden. The quaint university city is home to several windmills, plenty of churches, and picturesque canals. You’ll also have the opportunity to soak up architecture dating back centuries. Don’t miss out on Leiden’s Street Market — with several stalls peddling clothes, street food, and interesting knick-knacks.

Volendam

The popular fishing village of Volendam is just 20km from Amsterdam and has everything you would expect from a quintessential Dutch town. Armed with five centuries of rich history, the isolated fishing village is the best place to see everything from traditional houses to wooden shoes. If you’re considering a trip, wander along the harbor to experience the bustling town. Stay at the Van der Valk hotel, to immerse yourself in a serene ambiance, overlooking a small lake.

Maastricht

As the country’s southernmost city, Maastricht is nestled between the borders of Belgium and Germany. If you’re hunting for an escape to the countryside, the 2.5-hour train to the city will provide you with just this — think sweeping Dutch landscapes, decorated with windmills and farm animals. Make sure to save some time to visit the Dominicanen, a bookshop housed in an old church. For a dose of refinement and relaxation, stay at the Designhotel Maastricht, located in the trendy Wyck neighborhood.

Gouda

Besides lending its name to one of the world’s most popular cheeses, Gouda ranks among the oldest cities in the Netherlands. This city is perfect for day trips, home to historical buildings and landmarks. Must-see highlights include the Waag, Sint-Jnaskerk, and city hall. No trip here is complete without sampling its cheese. Visit the cheese markets or the Gouda Cheese Experience. Spend the night at the Mainport Design Hotel Rotterdam, and take a 20-minute train journey to Gouda. Short on time? Gouda’s small size also makes it the perfect destination for a day trip.

Flights to the Netherlands

For yourself

Picking a flight to the Netherlands is not difficult. Many US airlines offer direct flights to Schiphol, the largest airport of the Netherlands. United Airlines, JetBlue, and KLM have non-stop flights to Amsterdam from JFK international airport. You can expect to spend around 8 hours on the air from the US to Amsterdam - not bad for a transatlantic flight.

For someone else

Have someone who'd kill to visit the Netherlands? Give them an airline gift card from Flightgift, the world's most flexible gift card for plane tickets. With Flightgift, recipients can choose any flights to anywhere in the world from 400+ major airlines. And yes, it's easily customizable, making Flightgift one of the most unique gifts you can get anyone.

Dutch cities besides Amsterdam: Last thoughts

So which Dutch city will you be busy exploring? Make the most of your time in the Netherlands, and create memories of a lifetime. Dive in, for some of the most beautiful Dutch cities across the country.