Best Things to Do in the Netherlands This Year

From tulip fields in full bloom to historic canals shimmering under city lights, the Netherlands offers an unforgettable mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you crave world-class museums, charming windmill villages, or vibrant festivals, this small but diverse country has something for every traveler. With new events, hidden gems, and classic Dutch experiences awaiting, there’s never been a better time to explore. Maximize your trip with the most exciting things to do this year, from off-the-beaten-path treasures to must-see attractions. Get ready to experience the Netherlands beyond the postcards—this guide has everything you need for an extraordinary journey.

Sail Through the Giethoorn Canals, the “Dutch Venice”

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Thatched-roof farmhouses, wooden footbridges, and endless waterways define Giethoorn, a village untouched by modern rush. Navigating its canals offers a serene alternative to bustling cities, where boats glide past blooming gardens and 18th-century cottages. Electric whisper boats ensure a quiet ride, preserving the tranquility of this car-free escape. Restaurants along the waterways offer a front-row seat to daily village life, while the Giethoorn Museum unveils its rich history. During spring, reflections of tulip fields dance on the water, making every turn a postcard-worthy view. Visiting in winter transforms the canals into an ice-skating paradise, adding another layer of charm. Renting a traditional punt lets you meander through hidden passages, while guided tours provide deeper insight into this fairytale setting. Early mornings or late afternoons guarantee fewer crowds, enhancing the peaceful experience. Giethoorn is not just a destination—it’s an immersion into Dutch heritage and nature.

Walk Across the Floating Tulip Fields in Noordoostpolder

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Endless waves of tulips stretch across the Noordoostpolder, transforming the landscape into a painter’s dream. The annual tulip festival in spring unveils this spectacle, with floating fields offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Raised wooden walkways provide an uninterrupted view of vibrant reds, yellows, and purples, creating a surreal sensation of walking on water. Photographers and nature lovers flock here for its untouched beauty, capturing reflections of blooming petals mirrored in the surrounding waters. Guided tours explain the region’s history, from its reclaimed land origins to its rise as a floral powerhouse. The fragrance of fresh blossoms fills the air, heightening the sensory experience. Renting a bike allows for a leisurely ride through the fields, covering more ground at your own pace. Whether exploring at sunrise for golden light or during peak bloom in April, Noordoostpolder delivers an unforgettable glimpse into the Netherlands’ floral magic.

Explore the Cube Houses of Rotterdam Inside and Out

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A futuristic landmark in the heart of Rotterdam, the Cube Houses challenge conventional architecture with their tilted, cube-shaped design. Designed by Piet Blom, these structures rest at a 45-degree angle, creating a maze of geometric wonder. Walking beneath their yellow facades offers a striking contrast against the modern skyline, while stepping inside the Show Cube Museum reveals their surprisingly functional interiors. Each unit maximizes space through ingenious layouts, proving that creativity and livability can coexist. Residents live within these quirky dwellings, adding a dynamic energy to the area. The nearby Markthal, with its vibrant food stalls, offers a perfect complement to the visit. For an elevated view, the nearby Erasmus Bridge and Euromast Tower provide panoramic perspectives of the city’s innovative spirit. The Cube Houses stand as a testament to Rotterdam’s resilience and commitment to pushing architectural boundaries, making them a must-see for design enthusiasts.

Cycle the Afsluitdijk, a 32-Kilometer Bike Path Over the Sea

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Pedaling across the Afsluitdijk delivers an unparalleled cycling adventure, where the open sea stretches on both sides. This 32-kilometer-long engineering marvel connects North Holland and Friesland, shielding the country from flooding while offering a scenic route for cyclists. Strong sea breezes and uninterrupted horizons create a challenging yet rewarding ride, with dedicated bike lanes ensuring a safe journey. Along the way, a visit to the Afsluitdijk Wadden Center provides insight into the dyke’s critical role in Dutch water management. A stop at the monument marking the dike’s construction in 1932 offers a moment of appreciation for this feat of human ingenuity. Resting areas allow cyclists to pause and take in the expansive views of the North Sea and IJsselmeer. E-bikes make the trip more accessible, allowing riders to focus on the surroundings rather than endurance. The Afsluitdijk blends adventure, history, and nature in a ride unlike any other.

Visit the Fairytale Castle of De Haar, the Netherlands’ Largest Castle

Stepping through the grand gates of De Haar Castle feels like entering a medieval fantasy. Towering turrets, intricate stonework, and sprawling gardens define this architectural masterpiece near Utrecht. Originally built in the 14th century, it was later restored by the Rothschild family, blending historical grandeur with modern opulence. Inside, lavishly decorated rooms showcase Renaissance-style tapestries, crystal chandeliers, and antique furniture. The surrounding parkland, filled with winding paths and reflective ponds, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. Seasonal events, from medieval festivals to themed garden tours, bring the estate to life throughout the year. Exploring the castle’s hidden rooms and grand halls reveals stories of nobility, power, and extravagant feasts. Sunset visits bathe the castle in a golden glow, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Whether for its history, architecture, or breathtaking scenery, De Haar remains one of the Netherlands’ most captivating landmarks.

Experience the Psychedelic Light Art of the Amsterdam Light Festival

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Winter nights in Amsterdam take on an otherworldly glow as canals transform into an open-air gallery of illuminated masterpieces. The annual Amsterdam Light Festival showcases large-scale light installations created by artists from around the globe, turning the city’s waterways into a surreal spectacle. Each year follows a unique theme, with dynamic projections, interactive displays, and glowing sculptures reflecting off the water. Boat tours provide the most immersive views, drifting beneath bridges adorned with colorful designs. Walking routes along the canals offer a closer look at intricate artworks, many of which respond to movement or sound. Museumplein and Artis Zoo often feature additional displays, extending the festival’s reach beyond the historic center. The event runs from late November through January, making it a perfect winter highlight. Whether exploring on foot or by boat, the festival brings an unforgettable fusion of technology, creativity, and Amsterdam’s iconic charm.

Explore the Hidden Speakeasy Bars of Amsterdam

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Beyond the city’s well-known pubs and cafés, a secretive world of hidden bars offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s underground cocktail culture. Many speakeasies require passwords, secret doors, or unmarked entrances, adding an element of intrigue. Hiding behind phone booths, barber shops, and unassuming doors, these intimate spaces serve expertly crafted drinks in dimly lit, atmospheric settings. Tales & Spirits, with its inventive mixology, remains a local favorite, while Door 74 keeps its Prohibition-era charm alive with velvet booths and vintage decor. Some bars require advance reservations, enhancing their exclusivity. Signature cocktails feature local ingredients, with gin-based creations paying homage to the city’s history as a jenever hub. Each venue offers a unique experience, blending historical influences with modern creativity. Tracking down these hidden gems adds an adventurous twist to a night out, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience Amsterdam’s vibrant nightlife.

Walk on the Endless White Sand Dunes of Texel Island

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A short ferry ride from Den Helder unveils an untouched paradise where rolling sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands, offers pristine beaches, vast nature reserves, and a network of walking trails that wind through its shifting dunes. The Slufter Valley, a tidal plain teeming with rare birds and sea lavender, provides a surreal landscape of salt marshes blending into the North Sea. Ecomare, a local marine sanctuary, introduces visitors to rescued seals and the island’s unique ecosystem. Cycling routes pass historic lighthouses and charming villages, while beachcombing reveals hidden treasures washed ashore. Sunsets paint the dunes in golden hues, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Whether trekking through the national park, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying the solitude, Texel’s vast landscapes offer a peaceful escape from the mainland’s bustling cities.

Go Underground in the Maastricht Caves

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Beneath the historic streets of Maastricht lies a labyrinth of tunnels that once served as a refuge, storage site, and wartime hideout. The Maastricht Caves, stretching over 80 kilometers, were carved from limestone and have existed for centuries, bearing witness to countless historical events. Guided tours reveal hidden murals, wartime carvings, and remnants of secret escape routes used during World War II. The temperature remains cool year-round, creating an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere as visitors navigate the pitch-black corridors by lantern light. Stories of smugglers, soldiers, and artists who left their marks on the cave walls bring the history of this underground world to life. The North Caves and Zonneberg Caves offer distinct experiences, with some tours leading to the underground vault of Sint Pietersberg, once home to a secret Rembrandt painting. Exploring these subterranean chambers provides an unforgettable journey into Maastricht’s hidden past.

Visit the Floating Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt) on the Amsterdam Canals

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Rows of vibrant flower stalls line the Singel Canal, creating a floating marketplace that bursts with color and fragrance year-round. Established in 1862, the Bloemenmarkt remains the only floating flower market in the world, with vendors selling tulips, daffodils, and exotic plants from houseboat-style stalls. Fresh-cut blooms and souvenir bulbs draw visitors seeking a piece of Dutch horticulture to take home. Specialty shops offer gardening tools, floral-themed gifts, and rare plant varieties, making it a paradise for plant enthusiasts. Springtime visits coincide with tulip season, when the market explodes in a riot of colors. Nearby, historic cheese shops and Dutch stroopwafel stands add to the experience, making this a must-visit stop along the canal belt. Whether browsing for floral souvenirs or simply soaking in the fragrant atmosphere, the Bloemenmarkt remains one of Amsterdam’s most iconic and visually stunning attractions.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Windmills of Kinderdijk at Sunrise

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Golden hues stretch across the Dutch countryside as early morning light casts long shadows over Kinderdijk’s iconic windmills. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, these 18th-century structures stand as a testament to the Netherlands’ long battle against rising waters. A peaceful morning visit ensures fewer crowds, offering an undisturbed view of the 19 windmills reflecting in the still canals. Walking and cycling paths weave through the landscape, allowing visitors to get close to the preserved mechanisms still in operation. The interactive visitor center provides insights into the region’s innovative water management history. Boat tours along the canals offer a unique vantage point, gliding past reeds and traditional farmhouses. Wildlife sightings, from herons to storks, add to the tranquility of the scene. Whether exploring on foot, by bike, or from the water, Kinderdijk at sunrise delivers an unforgettable glimpse into the Netherlands’ historic ingenuity.

Walk Through the Vibrant Street Art of Eindhoven’s Strijp-S District

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Industrial history meets modern creativity in Eindhoven’s Strijp-S district, where former Philips factory buildings now serve as canvases for some of the Netherlands’ most striking street art. Murals tower over alleyways, blending abstract designs with bold social statements. Each corner reveals a new masterpiece, from hyper-realistic portraits to colorful geometric illusions. The Berenkuil graffiti tunnel showcases evolving works by local and international artists, transforming the space into an ever-changing outdoor gallery. Independent cafés and concept stores line the district, offering a break between explorations. Guided street art tours provide deeper context behind the pieces, explaining the techniques and messages hidden in the details. The annual Dutch Design Week further solidifies Strijp-S as a hub of artistic expression. Whether admiring large-scale murals or stumbling upon hidden gems in side streets, this creative neighborhood offers an immersive experience that brings Eindhoven’s innovative spirit to life.

Kayak Through the Utrecht Canals and Paddle Past Hidden Cellar Bars

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Tranquil waters wind through Utrecht’s medieval heart, offering a perspective unlike any other. Kayaking along the canals reveals a network of wharf cellars repurposed into cozy cafés, jazz bars, and independent breweries. Paddling beneath low stone bridges and past ivy-covered façades, the journey blends history with adventure. Many rental stations provide single or tandem kayaks, with routes varying from quick loops to extended explorations reaching quieter residential areas. Evening excursions take on a magical ambiance as golden streetlights reflect on the water. Docking at one of the canalside terraces allows for a well-earned break with a local craft beer or Dutch bitterballen. Unlike Amsterdam’s bustling waterways, Utrecht’s canals maintain a laid-back charm, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed paddle. Whether gliding past the Dom Tower or exploring hidden corners, this experience merges outdoor activity with the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Ride the Oldest Steam Train in the Netherlands Between Hoorn and Medemblik

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A journey through time unfolds aboard the Hoorn-Medemblik steam train, where vintage carriages and billowing smoke revive the golden age of rail travel. Running since 1887, this historic railway passes through picturesque West Frisian landscapes, with windmills, tulip fields, and grazing sheep lining the route. Conductors in period uniforms share stories of the railway’s past, adding depth to the experience. At each station, restored buildings showcase railway memorabilia, while Medemblik’s harbor provides a charming stop before returning. Many visitors pair the trip with a ferry ride to Enkhuizen, completing a nostalgic Dutch travel loop. Seasonal events, including themed rides and reenactments, bring added excitement for families and history enthusiasts. The rhythmic chug of the locomotive and the scent of burning coal evoke a time when travel was unhurried and scenic. Whether enjoyed for the history or the views, this steam train ride offers an unforgettable slice of nostalgia.

Attend the Cheese Market in Alkmaar and Watch Traditional Cheese Carriers in Action

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Time-honored traditions come to life in Alkmaar’s cheese market, where massive wheels of Gouda and Edam are weighed, traded, and transported using centuries-old techniques. Every Friday from April to September, the city square transforms into a spectacle of organized chaos as cheese carriers, dressed in white uniforms with colored hats, swiftly move stacks of golden wheels on wooden barrows. The Kaasdragers Guild ensures authenticity, preserving a tradition dating back to 1365. Visitors can observe the rigorous quality checks, sample freshly cut cheeses, and explore nearby specialty shops selling aged varieties infused with herbs or truffle. The adjacent Cheese Museum offers deeper insight into the Netherlands’ dairy heritage. Arriving early secures the best viewing spot, while guided tours provide historical context behind the lively event. The market’s atmosphere, complete with Dutch folk music and enthusiastic vendors, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience.