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Capital
Amsterdam
Netherlands holidays
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Holidays to the Netherlands serve up canal-filled cities, sandy swathes and a countryside bursting with flowers.
City exploring
Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ most famous city. Its winding streets, collection of canals and tall, narrow houses are immediately recognisable. And, it’s packed full of things to do. You’ve got museums of all shapes and sizes and attractions like the highest swing in Europe, alongside an excellent food scene and lively nightlife. Just half an hour’s drive outside of Amsterdam you’ll find Haarlem. This place is another historical hotspot, and it’s known for being a haven for shopping fans.
Beautiful beaches
This place lines up some stellar swathes of sand. Zandvoort aan Zee is a favourite with locals as well as tourists. It ticks all the boxes – there’s plenty of space for sunbathing, it’s lined with beach bars and restaurants and it’s a favourite with fans of watersports like kitesurfing, kayaking and surfing. Amsterdam’s got its own offerings, too, including an urban beach speckled with giant beanbags.
Full of flowers
The Netherlands is famous for its flower-growing industry – you won’t find a more colourful countryside anywhere else. Different types of flowers grow throughout the year, but if you want to see the Dutch countryside in full bloom, spring’s the best time to go. You’ll see millions of flowers in countless colours on the Flower Strip, or Bollenstreek, set out in distinctive stripes. Visit the Keukenhof flower gardens, which, featuring over seven million colourful bulbs, are so impressive that they’ve become known as the garden of Europe.
Popular hotels in Netherlands
Facts about Netherlands
FAQs
Where can I find the latest travel advice?
All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.
What travel adapter do I need for Netherlands?
When visiting the Netherlands, you'll need a European-style plug adapter. The standard plugs are Type C and Type F, which have two round pins. Most hotels provide these outlets, but it's advisable to bring an adapter if your devices have UK-style plugs.
Should I tip in Netherlands?
Tipping isn't as common in the Netherlands as in some other countries. In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill. If you're particularly pleased with the service, rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra amount is appreciated but not expected.
Are there any local customs I should know about in Netherlands?
When visiting the Netherlands, greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as directness is valued in conversation. Cycling is a major part of local life, so stay aware of bike lanes and avoid walking in them. Tipping is appreciated for good service but not obligatory, with rounding up the bill being common practice.
What's the nightlife like in Netherlands?
Nightlife in Netherlands offers varied experiences. Amsterdam features lively nightclubs, jazz bars and canal-side venues with electronic and live music scenes. Rotterdam provides warehouse clubs and contemporary bars with international DJs. Utrecht offers a more intimate setting with cosy brown cafes and underground music venues.
Where are the best places to shop in Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers diverse shopping experiences. In Amsterdam, you'll find trendy boutiques in the Nine Streets area and high-end brands on P.C. Hooftstraat. Rotterdam's Koopgoot is great for mainstream fashion. Many cities also have weekly markets where you can browse local products and souvenirs.
What should I pack for Netherlands?
For the Netherlands, pack layers to accommodate changing weather. Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Include a day bag for exploring cities, a universal adapter for electronics, and any necessary medications. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful Dutch landscapes and architecture.
Where can I try local food in Netherlands?
For local food in Netherlands, visit brown cafés and eetcafés for stamppot, mashed potatoes and vegetables, and bitterballen, fried meat croquettes. Try fresh herring from street stalls and stroopwafels from market vendors. Amsterdam and other cities have traditional Dutch pancake houses serving both sweet and savoury varieties.
What are the best beaches in Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers several coastal spots. Zandvoort Beach near Amsterdam provides wide sandy shores with beach clubs and watersports, ideal for day trips. Scheveningen in The Hague combines a long promenade with beach bars and a pier. Texel Island features unspoilt dunes and quieter stretches, whilst Bloemendaal aan Zee offers a lively atmosphere with music venues and beachfront dining.
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