Gabled houses, romantic canals, cobblestone streets and countless bicycles are just a few of the Netherlands’ iconic images. The Dutch countryside is dotted with windmills, tulips and quaint villages, while cosmopolitan cities wow visitors with stately monuments, lively cafes and some of the world’s best art galleries. The Netherlands’ compact size means you can see many of its highlights in a relatively short time.

Key Highlights

Amsterdam’s fascinating diversity never fails to captivate travellers. Merchant villas, tree-lined canals and bustling squares give the Dutch capital its unique atmosphere, and historical sights such as Anne Frank’s house provide an intriguing insight into the city’s past. Art lovers will be right at home in Amsterdam’s museums, which house a superb collection of masterpieces by Rembrandt and Van Gogh.

In Depth

The Netherlands’ seat of government, The Hague is a stately city with regal buildings, fabulous art galleries and many important institutions including the UN’s International Court of Justice. A large number of immigrants from around the world have given The Hague a vibrant multicultural feel.

Rotterdam is Europe’s busiest port and the second-busiest in the world (after Shanghai). The city was essentially levelled during World War II and rebuilt in a progressive modern style, leaving it with an aesthetic unlike any other Dutch city.

Volendam is a colourful fishing village where some residents still dress in traditional costumes. The nearby island of Marken is connected to the mainland by a dike and enchants visitors with its characteristic wooden houses.