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Everyone knows Holland’s infamous capital city, but there are so many more incredible Dutch cities to visit in the Netherlands than just Amsterdam. While Amsterdam is undoubtedly a popular and vibrant city to visit in the Netherlands, exploring other Dutch cities will help you escape the questionable smells, hoards of tourists and red-light areas in exchange for a more well-rounded and authentic experience of the country.
From the enchanting canals of Utrecht to the historic charm of Delft and the modern energy of Rotterdam, each Dutch city offers something different to your Netherlands trip and thanks to Holland's compact size and amazing transport links, they're easily reachable from wherever you are in the Netherlands.
So get ready to uncover the Netherlands's hidden gems and dive into our handpicked list of the most beautiful (and less crowded) Dutch cities to help you embrace your inner Dutchie that includes:
How to Visit The Best Dutch Cities in the Netherlands
Where is the Netherlands?
Just across the North Sea! The Netherlands is in northwestern Europe, bordered by Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the north and west. It’s easy to reach from the UK by plane, ferry, or Eurostar making it great for a quick European getaway.
What are the best things to do in Holland?
When in Holland, you'll want to get close to the Dutch culture by doing the activities they love so much. Cycling is clearly a must, eating frites from a cone and buying a frikandel from Febo, the Netherlands' beloved fast-food chain. The Dutch also love spending time in the great outdoors and of course, having a nice pint of Dutch beer.
Is Three Days Enough to Visit the Netherlands?
If you're planning a trip to the Netherlands, you might be wondering if three days are enough to truly experience the beauty and culture of this remarkable country. While it's true that the Netherlands has a lot to offer, a well-planned three-day itinerary can still provide you with a memorable taste of Dutch life.
Here's how you can make the most of your three days in the Netherlands:
- Day 1: Amsterdam - Start your trip in Amsterdam, the Dutch capital and a city that boasts a unique blend of history, art, and vibrant street life. Explore the iconic canals, visit world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and take a leisurely stroll through picturesque neighbourhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp. Don't forget to try some traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and herring from street vendors.
- Day 2: Although you'll never be bored in Amsterdam, consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby cities mentioned in our previous section, such as Utrecht or Leiden. These cities offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to experience authentic Dutch culture without the hustle and bustle of the capital.
- Day 3: On your final day in the Netherlands, you can choose between exploring the modern and innovative city of Rotterdam or the historically significant city of The Hague. Rotterdam offers a contemporary vibe, with its architectural marvels and cultural events. On the other hand, The Hague is rich in history, boasting museums, palaces, and beautiful beaches.
While three days may not allow you to explore every corner of the Netherlands, it's certainly enough time to get a taste of the country's diversity and charm. Whether you're captivated by Amsterdam's bustling streets, the serene canals of Utrecht, or the cultural richness of Rotterdam and The Hague, your three-day journey of the best Dutch cities will leave you with lasting memories of the Netherlands. So, is three days enough to visit the Netherlands? It won't make you an expert on the country, but it's certainly a wonderful start to your Dutch adventure.
What is the prettiest place in the Netherlands?
Determining the prettiest place in the Netherlands is subjective, but many would argue that Giethoorn takes the crown. Known as the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn is famous for its canals, charming thatched-roof houses, and tranquil atmosphere. Exploring this beautiful Dutch village by boat is a magical experience that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
What is the most walkable city in the Netherlands?
Utrecht is often cited as one of the most walkable cities in the Netherlands. Its compact city centre, pedestrian-friendly streets, and numerous tourist attractions within walking distance make it ideal for exploring on foot.
What town is 20 minutes from Amsterdam?
Haarlem is just a short 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam and provides a welcome change of pace when staying in the city. Known for its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and calmer way of life, Haarlem is definitely a petite and pleasant Dutch city to explore.
The 11 Best Dutch Cities (Other than Amsterdam)
1. Rotterdam
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 40 minutes
Best time to visit: Summer for outdoor events
First on our list of the best Dutch cities to visit other than Amsterdam is the infamous Rotterdam. Thanks to the short distance from the UK, the Netherlands’ second largest city makes for a quick and easy getaway from the UK, meaning you can enjoy the taste of another culture in no time at all.
In summer, Rotterdam comes alive with its plethora of outdoor events. One of them is the Rotterdam Summer Carnival which celebrates the best of Caribbean culture. You’ll also find music festivals to suit every taste making it a must for all music lovers. Once you’re finished you can lounge on beach chairs at the peaceful Parqiet, chill by Kralingen Lake or explore the edgy Weelde district which even has its own farm. A city break to Rotterdam means you’re definitely not going to run out of things to do.
Close off your busy day sightseeing with a cooling dip in the Inntel Hotels Rotterdam Centre pool and a refreshing cocktail in the contemporary bar afterwards.
Where to stay in Rotterdam:
PREMIER SUITES PLUS Rotterdam | ★★★★ | Weena 710, 3014 DA Rotterdam
A modern all-suite hotel with spacious rooms and excellent city views, perfect for both short and extended stays.
2. Eindhoven
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Best time to visit: Autumn for design festivals
Famous for being a hub of design and innovation our next Dutch city to visit other than Amsterdam, Eindhoven, is a tech lover’s dream. When visiting this futuristic Dutch city make sure to pay a visit to the informative but fun:
To broaden your knowledge on the evolution of the tech industry in the Eindhoven area before sampling some delicious Dutch beers at the city’s countless distilleries and breweries. Once you’re done with your refreshments, head to the 200-acre Genneper Park where you can join in on activities like mini golf, kayaking, swimming and more.
Where to stay:
Social Hub Hotel | ★★★★ | Stationsplein 3A, 5611 AB Eindhoven
A vibrant and quirky hotel ideal for tech enthusiasts.
3. Utrecht
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 30 minutes
Best time to visit: Spring for canal-side festivities
Only 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam lies the charming province of Utrecht. Embodying traditional Dutch characteristics (thinks canals, cobblestone streets, and wonky houses), this Dutch city has been steadily growing in popularity. Plus there are endless things to do in Utrecht thanks to the canals flowing through the lively city by:
- Stopping for a pick-me-up at one of the several canal-side bars
- Sampling delicious Dutch delicacies like bitterballen, stamppot and erwtensoep at the canal-side restaurants
- Exploring the city by water with a rented kayak or boat
- Sitting back and relaxing on a canal cruise
- Enjoying a picnic and some classic Dutch beer on the green canal banks
Where to stay:
NH Centre Utrecht| ★★★★ | Jaarbeursplein 24, 3521 AL Utrecht
A cosy hotel in Utrecht perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
4. Volendam
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 1 hour (including bus transfer)
Best time to visit: Autumn to avoid the crowds
Volendam's very Instagrammable fishing village is just 20km from Amsterdam and has everything you would expect from a quintessential Dutch town. Steeped in tradition and famous for its closed community, it's worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. Volendam has five centuries of rich history making this remote Dutch fishing village one of the best places to see classic Dutch architecture.
While visiting Volendam you can also check out:
- Edam cheese markets
- Wooden shoe factories
- Famous Eindhoven windmills
If you do decide to take a trip to Volendam, you can easily fit in some other nearby Dutch cities like Edam which are also incredibly beautiful.
Where to stay:
Van der Valk Hotel | ★★★★ | Breekland 6, 1131 VP Volendam
A modern hotel in Volendam that overlooks a lake
5. The Hague
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 50 minutes
Best time to visit: Summer for beach visits
Home to the country’s government, Royal Family and United Nations, there’s no disputing that The Hague is an important place and not one to miss if you’re considering venturing outside of Amsterdam to visit some other Dutch cities.
The Hague is steeped in history with countless museums and art galleries to please history fans and art lovers alike. If this sounds like you, stop by the Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery to view the Dutch Golden Age art and afterwards to the Louwman Museum to browse the vast collection of antique vehicles.
If you’ve got little ones in toe, you can’t miss the miniature theme park Madurodam. But if you’d rather be outside enjoying the sun, do like the Dutch and head to one of The Hague’s famous beaches, easily accessible by public transport.
Where to stay:
Best Western Plus Grand Winston | ★★★★ | Stationsweg 8, 2273 AK Voorburg
A stylish hotel with an excellent fine-dining restaurant.
6. Maastricht
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Best time to visit: Winter for its magically festive atmosphere
As the country’s southernmost city, Maastricht is nestled between the borders of Belgium and Germany. This pint-sized Dutch city is like something out of a fairytale, particularly in winter when its historic buildings are capped with snow and Christmas lights line the street. We recommend checking out the impressive Dominicanen bookshop housed in an old church.
Where to stay:
Amrâth Grand Hotel de l’Empereur | ★★★★ | Stationsplein 1, 6221 BP Maastricht
A refined hotel offering relaxation and easy access to the city.
7. Gouda
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 50 minutes
Best time to visit: Summer for cheese markets
Next on our list of the best Dutch cities is Gouda. Aside from its delicious Gouda cheese, this medieval city has so much to offer travellers wanting to soak up Dutch culture in a limited time frame. Ranking among the oldest cities in the Netherlands, the Dutch city is bursting with historical buildings and show-stopping landmarks.
Must-see highlights include the Waag (a cheese and crafts museum), the Sint-Jnaskerk Church, and the city hall famous for its Gothic architecture. And of course, no trip here is complete without sampling its cheese. Visit the cheese markets or the Gouda Cheese Experience to be walked through the production process.
Where to stay:
Mainport Design Hotel Rotterdam| ★★★★ | Leuvehaven 77, 3011 EA Rotterdam (20-minute train journey)
A chic hotel with luxurious amenities just a short train ride away.
8. Leiden
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 40 minutes
Best time to visit: Spring for tulip season
Famous for its university, Leiden’s picturesque cobblestone streets and nearby beach make it one of the best Dutch cities for travellers seeking some peace and quiet while still enjoying an array of cultural activities. While visiting this incredible Dutch city, history lovers can visit the National Museum of Antiquities before wandering the streets while taking in Leiden’s unique architecture in the form of historic churches, the Stadhuis van Leiden and the Leiden University building. Is history not really your thing? Not to worry because there are countless other options such as:
- exploring the tranquil botanical gardens
- soaking in the sights (and the sun) on an open-top canal cruise
- browsing the stalls at the famous Leiden Street Market selling delicious cheeses, fresh fruit and vegetables and vibrant flowers.
Where to stay:
Dutch Golden Tulip Leiden Centre Hotel | ★★★★ | Schipholweg 3, 2316 XB Leiden
A comfortable hotel with a delightful breakfast to start your day.
9. Arnhem
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Best time to visit: Spring for outdoor activities
Arnhem is another must-see Dutch city that deserves a spot on your itinerary. Located in the eastern part of the Netherlands in the Gelderland province, Arnhem offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. When spending your holiday in Arnhem, we recommend:
- Paying a visit to the historic Airborne Museum Hartenstein to learn about the famous World War II Battle of Arnhem
- Explore the Burgers' Zoo for a fun and educational experience
- Strolling through the beautiful Hoge Veluwe National Park, known for its stunning landscapes
- Visiting the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Vincent van Gogh
- Climbing the spire of the St Eusebius' Church and enjoying the panoramic view over Arnhem
You can take a train from Amsterdam Centraal to Arnhem in only 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once you arrive in Arnhem, you can marvel at this Dutch city's impressive train station that looks like something from a sci-fi film.
Where to stay:
Hotel Haarhuis | ★★★★ | Stationsplein 1, 6811 KG Arnhem
A contemporary hotel in Arnhem is conveniently located near the train station.
10. Venlo
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 2 hours
Best time to visit: Autumn for local markets
Last on our list of the most beautiful Dutch cities to visit other than Amsterdam is Venlo. Although not as widely known as some of the other Dutch cities mentioned, Venlo is a true Dutch hidden gem nestled in the southeastern Netherlands on the border with Germany. It's German influence is evident with a whole part of the city being known as the 'German area'. You'll hear German, shop in German shops and even see German markets which gives a unique twist to this city in Holland.
The best things to do and see in Venlo
- Explore the medieval charm of the city centre with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, such as the imposing St. Martinuskerk.
- Immerse yourself in Dutch horticulture at the enchanting Jochumhof, a monastic village and botanical garden dating back to the 19th century.
- Try traditional Limburg vlaai, a delicious pie that the region is famous for
- Shop for local (and German) goods at Venlo's bustling markets, where fresh produce and regional specialities abound.
- Discover the rich heritage of the region at the Limburgs Museum, offering insights into Limburg's cultural, historical, and artistic legacy.
- Take a scenic boat tour or cycle along the picturesque Maas River, soaking in panoramic views of Venlo's charming waterfront and lush landscapes.
Accessible by train from major Dutch cities, including Amsterdam, Venlo invites you to uncover its treasures and create lasting memories in the heart of Limburg, a distinct Dutch province bordered by Germany and Belgium.
Where to stay:
Hotel Wilhelmina | ★★★ | Wilhelminapark 3, 5911 HG Venlo
A charming hotel that combines comfort with traditional hospitality.
11. Amersfoort
Distance from Amsterdam by train: 35 minutes
Best time to visit: Spring for outdoor exploration
Nicknamed the Keistad (boulder city), Amersfoort is a must if you're into history. It's a small, medieval Dutch city but exploring its streets is a joy. Here are our top picks for things to do in Amersfoort:
- Visiting the Koppelpoort, the remaining part of the city gate that was made all the way back in the 15th century.
- Learning all about Amersfoort's past at the Flehite Museum.
- Stopping by the Mondriaan Huise Modern Art Gallery and picking up some interesting bits from the gift shop as souvenirs.
- Checking out the unique architecture in the Kattenbroek area.
- Stopping by The New City, an innovative hub
Where to stay:
NH Amersfoort | ★★★★ | Stationsstraat 75, 3811 MH Amersfoort
A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a prime location near the city centre, perfect for a weekend trip from Amsterdam.
Gift a Trip to Holland with a Flightgift Airline Voucher
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With a flight gift voucher, you empower your favourite globetrotter do to what they love most - travel the world and explore other cultures with the ultimate freedom. They choose when and where they fly to, plus you don't need to provide any passport details when you buy their flight voucher.
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Our flight vouchers make it all possible. Sound good? It gets even better because these are no standard airline vouchers. They're printed on top-quality photo paper that your recipient will be able to display proudly of place for years to come. You can even personalise it by adding your own photo and message. You can choose from three flight gift card options including eGift (sent via email), PDF (print at home and give in person) or a luxury gift card sent in the post for FREE.
