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Introducing The Netherlands

The Netherlands is so much more than just windmills and tulips! From top to bottom, its rich history can be experienced through the well-preserved architecture of its picturesque villages, churches, and canals. If nature is more your speed, the Netherlands boasts beautiful beaches and national parks to explore. It may be a small country, but there is something here for everyone! 

When is the best time to visit Holland?
The Netherlands is a country that can really be visited year-round. Even in the chilly winter months, you are still able to enjoy a stroll through the park or a cup of mulled wine at a local market. Situated on the coast of the North Sea, the Netherlands experiences moderate marine temperatures during Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), colder temperatures in the winter (December- February) and warm, but manageable temperatures during the summer months (June-August). Spontaneous rainfalls can occur year-round, with the heaviest rains falling in October and November. 

Where should you go?
In the Netherlands, you really can have it all! Since the country is relatively small, you are able to see all its corners without having to travel long distances. This means that it is quite easy to visit the tulips fields in the Bollenstreek (Dutch bulb region), go cycling along the dunes near Bergen and Schoorl, wander through charming cobblestone streets of 17th-century villages such as Haarlem or Leiden, or go hiking in the Veluwe National Park, all while traveling from point A to B in only 1.5 hours on average.

How many days do you need?
In 5 days, you can experience all of the highlights of the west such as Amsterdam and its many art museums which boast works from the great Dutch Masters, the tulip fields in bloom around Haarlem, traditional Dutch windmills at the Zaanse Schans, and a cheese market in Alkmaar or Gouda. If you have 7 to 10 days to spend, you can visit more off-the-beaten-track places like the picturesque fishing villages of Monnickendam, Marken, and Volendam, take a boat tour or canoe excursion through Biesbosch National Park, or head south to Limburg to visit castles and go hiking in the only hills in the Netherlands. You can even enjoy some mudflat waking and the beach in the Wadden Islands.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 7 days · 10 days · 14 days

The Netherlands Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Lievebrug Bridge in Ghent
Grand Tour of the Netherlands & Belgium - 14 Days

Castles, cathedrals, windmills, canals: this two-week itinerary takes you through highlights of the Netherlands and Belgium. Starting in the vibrant Dutch capital of Amsterdam and ending in the cosmopolitan Belgian capital of Brussels, the adventure offers a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor excursions. Learn about architecture in Rotterdam, see medieval Ghent from a boat, sample Belgian waffles in their place of origin, view original paintings by Vincent van Gogh, and experience natural landscapes with a ride through a national park on an e-bike. This grand tour has something for everyone!

The National Monument on Dam Square, Amsterdam
Map of World War II in the Netherlands - 5 Days
World War II in the Netherlands - 5 Days

History buffs won't want to miss this five-day tour of World War II sites and monuments in the Netherlands. From the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam to the Camp Westerbork detention camp, and from refugee hideaways in the woods to military cemeteries and memorials, there's so much to see and learn. Spend the night at the site where the Netherlands was liberated from the Nazis, walk with a veteran across a landmark bridge at sunset in Nijmegen, and wrap up the itinerary with a visit to the National Monument in Amsterdam.

A picturesque canal in Amsterdam
Best of Amsterdam & Haarlem - 5 Days

This enlightening 5-day journey will take you to the highlights of Amsterdam and its surrounding region. Start at the Anne Frank House, then enjoy a private boat tour along the city's canals before visiting two world-class art museums, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. On a day trip to the countryside, you'll see historic windmills, wander around a quaint fishing village, and sample traditional Dutch cheese in Edam. Spend the last part of the trip in the charming city of Haarlem, an easy side trip from the capital, where you'll visit the oldest museum in the Netherlands.

Bicycle in the Dutch Countryside
Map of Flower Tour of Holland - 5 Days
Flower Tour of Holland - 5 Days

This itinerary is all about flowers! In just five days, you will cycle through Dutch tulip fields on an e-bike, learn how tulips are grown, and see how they're sold at auction and at floating flower markets. View magnificent tulips on display at the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens, the largest flower park in the world, and learn all about the rich history of tulips and their value in Dutch culture at the Tulip Museum. The best time to plan this trip is March through May, with the tulips at their best in mid-April.

Historic monuments on a tour of Holland and Flanders
Map of Highlights of Holland & Flanders - 7 Days
Highlights of Holland & Flanders - 7 Days

There's no need to choose between Holland and Flanders (the Dutch-speaking half of Belgium). This weeklong itinerary takes you to the highlights of both, including sightseeing in Amsterdam, an architecture tour in Rotterdam, a gourmet food tour in Antwerp, and a boat tour past medieval castles in Ghent. You'll sample cheeses where they're produced, spot windmills in the Dutch countryside, and relax with a Belgian crowd on a river beach. This whirlwind itinerary has something for everyone!

Church
Map of Highlights of Holland - 10 Days
Highlights of Holland - 10 Days

Experience the best of Holland along with some of its hidden gems on this 10-day trip! From big cities to charming small villages, you’ll experience a perfect cross-section of what the Netherlands has to offer. You’ll have the opportunity to admire all of the traditional Dutch characteristics: cheese markets, famous painters, typical canals, rich history, churches with stained-glass windows, windmills, lovely squares, and ancient cobbled alleys. In addition to exploring picturesque smaller cities such as Gouda, Leiden, and Delft, you will also visit Amsterdam, home to the country’s most famous museums, the vibrant, modern harbor city of Rotterdam, and even get some beach time!

Make the Most of Your Time in the Netherlands

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Traditional windmills throughout the Alblasserwaard polder of Kinderdijk
How Many Days to Spend in the Netherlands

With five days in the Netherlands, travelers can explore Amsterdam's highlights and use the capital as a hub for nearby popular sites, including The Hague, Rotterdam, and...

The Netherlands Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest The Netherlands Content

Spend a week exploring the Benelux capitals, starting in Amsterdam
Map of Discover the Benelux Capitals: Amsterdam, Brussels & Luxembourg City - 7 Days
Discover the Benelux Capitals: Amsterdam, Brussels & Luxembourg City - 7 Days

Experience the beautiful capitals of the Benelux countries (the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg) during this whirlwind trip. In Amsterdam, you'll cruise the canals and take a walking tour of the historic streets while stopping to see the famous Dutch masters. Then, head to Brussels, the capital of Belgium, for waffles, beers, quirky museums, and a rowboat excursion. Finish the trip in Luxembourg City, where you'll wander through the compact and historic streets, as well as its famous palace.

Wander around Amsterdam's historic canals and cobblestone streets
Map of Grand Tour of Benelux: the Netherlands, Belgium & Luxembourg  - 14 Days
Grand Tour of Benelux: the Netherlands, Belgium & Luxembourg - 14 Days

Spend two glorious weeks in the tri-nation Benelux region with this action-packed itinerary. Start by cruising the canals and visiting the world-famous artworks of Amsterdam, cycling through the innovative streets of Rotterdam, and cruising past windmills in Kinderdijk. You'll then head to Brussels for mussels, beer, and museums, followed by kayaking in Belgium's picturesque town of Dinant. Finish the trip in Luxembourg, where you'll check out the capital and nearby castle of Vianden.

Traditional windmills throughout the Alblasserwaard polder of Kinderdijk
How Many Days to Spend in the Netherlands

With five days in the Netherlands, travelers can explore Amsterdam's highlights and use the capital as a hub for nearby popular sites, including The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Seven days, however, is the right amount of time to cover main interests and discover more of the country than the average visitor with places like Marken, Edam, and Biebosch National Park. If you have 10 days, you can go farther afield to the northern province of Groningen or visit a second country and cross the border into Belgium.

The Netherlands Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
7 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Map 10 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
10 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Map 14 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
14 Days in the Netherlands - 5 Unique Itineraries
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for The Netherlands
Travel specialist Mieke Arendsen
active 51 mins ago

Mieke Arendsen

Born and raised in the province of Gelderland in the east-central part of the Netherlands, I have traveled to most corners of the world, especially to Asia. But deep down, I will always remain a...

read more...
Travel specialist Bas Naus
active 1 day ago

Bas Naus

Like any person in the Netherlands, I started riding my bike soon after I learned how to walk and I ate cheese almost every day. But during my childhood, we would always drive straight to the...

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Travel specialist Lisa van den Eerenbeemt
active 3 hours ago

Lisa van den Eerenbeemt

As a Travel Specialist for the Netherlands and Belgium, I’m passionate about crafting personalized journeys that showcase the rich culture, history, and hidden gems of both countries. Whether it’s...

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Travel specialist Fleur Tuinte
active 5 hours ago

Fleur Tuinte

My name is Fleur, a 24-year-old Dutch girl who was born and raised in the Achterhoek, located in the very eastern part of the Netherlands. I now live in Nijmegen, which is the oldest city in the...

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Trip Reviews for The Netherlands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

KimKim set us up for success
The Netherlands | May 20 - May 25, 2026

J
Jim B.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on May 26, 2026
KimKim set us up for success. We told our agent Lisa the primary things we were looking for and she made it happen. Food tour, Windmills, countryside, Amsterdam Central, museums, etc. Then on to Rotterdam and Den Haugue. Recommend for sure. Read more

KimKim set us up for success. We told our agent Lisa the primary things we were looking for and she made it happen. Food tour, Windmills, countryside, Amsterdam Central, museums, etc. Then on to Rotterdam and Den Haugue. Recommend for sure.

Hotel Reviews
The James Hotel Rotterdam
Rotterdam

Staff was less than friendly. No Breakfast. Good location and property is updated but didn't feel welcoming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Be friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel des Arts
Amsterdam-Centrum

Do this! You feel like you are family here. Right in Central Amsterdam

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Public transport pass Netherlands (OV chip card)
Public transport pass Netherlands (OV chip card)
The Netherlands

it is so easy to use if you find your station

Local specialist: Lisa van den Eerenbeemt
Lisa
Lisa van den Eerenbeemt
Local specialist in Nijmegen | Replied on May 27, 2026

Thank you for your feedback, Jim! It has been a pleasure organizing the trip for you and your family. I'm very glad you had such a good time in the lowlands!
Wishing you all the best,
Lisa

A great trip so perfectly organized
The Netherlands | Apr 15 - Apr 19, 2026

V
Valerie S.
Italy | Reviewed on May 13, 2026
For years I have wanted to visit The Netherlands to see the tulips but could never get the timing or became exhausted looking online for the where/how/who of planning a trip. This year we decided, "let's do it" and luckily found Mieke, who was nothing short of wonderful. She took our wishes and needs, asked questions and understood what we were looking for, then organized things to fit just perfectly in our time frame. She put together not just a great itinerary but wonderful activities we... Read more

For years I have wanted to visit The Netherlands to see the tulips but could never get the timing or became exhausted looking online for the where/how/who of planning a trip. This year we decided, "let's do it" and luckily found Mieke, who was nothing short of wonderful. She took our wishes and needs, asked questions and understood what we were looking for, then organized things to fit just perfectly in our time frame. She put together not just a great itinerary but wonderful activities we would not have found on our own. The private driver was amazing - so helpful and personable, we left feeling like we'd made a good friend. The private canal cruise in Hoorn with a very kind and informative captain was so enjoyable, as was the Tulip Train, and the other activities she organized for us. We had a fabulous trip and it was all down to Mieke's expertise and piecing it all together so seamlessly!

Hotel Reviews
Ysbrantsz Boutique Hotel
Hoorn

We enjoyed the town and this hotel, right at the heart, was a great fit for us. The room was well-done and had a sort of "upscale" feel, staff was accommodating and nice, and the restaurant there is excellent. Focus seems to be on the restaurant as it was always very busy with locals and travelers, but the rooms were nicely done and very clean. The garden side is quiet and nice and the other side opens onto the main square.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ambassador City Centre Hotel
Haarlem

This hotel turned out to be a great location for us - right in the center and easy to walk to everything we needed. Room was comfortable and looked at the church. We loved hearing the bells chime and watching the people parade as they met up for drinks at the many cafes along the street (and of course participating ourselves in that activity!) The breakfast was well-done, restaurant meal was good, staff was very helpful and friendly. We had a great stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Hoorn
Explore Hoorn
The Netherlands

First, the hotel that Mieke set up for us was perfect - great location, lovely rooms, nice staff, very good restaurant and easy to get around. We enjoyed seeing Hoorn, which was a pretty town and lively; sitting on the square for a beer, watching the people parade, looking in the shops, watching sunset over the water...it was quite nice. Second, my main review is for the private driver that was organized for us. Robert was absolutely top-notch. He picked us up at the airport, assisted my husband, who has a disability, was personable and interesting while also professional. He took us to Hoorn by the backroads as requested, to allow us to visit some of the private tulip farms and see them up-close. He came back to Hoorn at an early hour to take us to the airport at the end of our trip, again going above and beyond for us and by the end of our time with him we felt like we'd made a new friend. We are so grateful to him for the help and the good time he showed us, that really helped make the trip special.

Hoorn - Tulip tram
Hoorn - Tulip tram
Hoorn

An old-time steam train with antique wooden rail cars that took us amidst the tulip fields - what's not to love? While there was some confusion at the station and the train was late departing, therefore not leaving us time in Medemblik to walk around, the experience of riding through the tulip fields was just lovely. It would have been nice to be able to walk between rail cars, but it being an antique train, I guess that wasn't possible. Having a beverage car would have enhanced the experience as there was little time at the stop in Wognum, barely enough to queue up at the tiny restroom and get back onboard, much less get something to drink or snack. I'd hoped they'd slow down more as we passed the tulips (they slowed more going through unused stations!) but I think it may have been due to the delayed departure and needing to get back in time. Medemblik was supposed to be "a tulip station" but didn't have any flowers on display as in Wognum. Despite the somewhat disorganized situation, we did enjoy the trip.

Quality of Experience
Signage to reach the train, timing, better facilities (more than one or two toilets at the stop would be beneficial), slower passage through the tulips, time to explore Medemblik. Could be better organized.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The antique train and wooden cars were well-preserved and a nice "old time" experience
Haarlem - Canal cruise
Haarlem - Canal cruise
The Netherlands

The cruise was smooth and had an audioguide in a couple of languages as it took us among the canals of Haarlem. Overall the process of easy and user-friendly and gave us a glimpse of the city from the water and some details we would have missed walking around town. Haarlem felt sort of like a "mini Amsterdam" and this experience enhanced that impression while allowing us to get off the streets and onto the famous canals to see things from a different perspective. It was more "commercial" than our canal cruise in Hoorn (but that one was a private cruise) though the staff in the canalside shop were helpful and friendly here.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hoorn - Private boat tour historic harbor
Hoorn - Private boat tour historic harbor
The Netherlands

Our captain was so sweet and informative - we learned a lot about the town, history, architectural details, and had a great time ducking down under the bridges, seeing the canals, and seeing the town from a different perspective. The private tour let us really talk to the boat captain, ask questions and hear his insights. He included a lovely surprise of drinks and snacks, and we were so glad we did this outing. It was perfect.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mieke Arendsen
Mieke
Mieke Arendsen
Local specialist in The Netherlands | Replied on May 15, 2026

Hi Valerie
Thank you for your kind words! Glad to hear you have enjoyed the trip so much - especially these places that not many people visit. It was a pleasure organizing the trip for you guys, and I am glad it turned out to be such a good match.

All the best to you and Bryan!
Best regards,
Mieke

Beautifully planned trip
The Netherlands | Apr 28 - May 5, 2026

Lee
Lee B.
Phoenix, AZ, USA | Reviewed on May 06, 2026
The trip as planned by Mieke at Kimkim was wonderful. Prior to traveling, she carefully listened to our preferences and adjusted the itinerary to our likes and needs. It was necessary to contact her once by phone and a couple of times via in app messaging and she was immediately responsive. The hotels were perfect as to location, amenities and atmosphere. All drivers were prompt and efficient. The one guide we had, Roland in Bruges, was a perfect mix of knowledge and humor, not overly... Read more

The trip as planned by Mieke at Kimkim was wonderful. Prior to traveling, she carefully listened to our preferences and adjusted the itinerary to our likes and needs. It was necessary to contact her once by phone and a couple of times via in app messaging and she was immediately responsive. The hotels were perfect as to location, amenities and atmosphere. All drivers were prompt and efficient. The one guide we had, Roland in Bruges, was a perfect mix of knowledge and humor, not overly into tedious detail, but just the right balance of information and informality.

Hotel Reviews
Juliana Hotel
Brussels

Gorgeous and beautifully appointed. Our room was small, on the top floor. The roofline was peaked making the ceiling slanted very low on one side. Although it required being aware to prevent a bumped head, the beauty of the facility made this a minor inconvenience. We had the final meal of our trip in the hotel restaurant and it was outstanding. The food was sophisticated and perfectly prepared, staff was attentive and the dining room is stunning.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Jan Brito
Bruges

Quaint, atmospheric and perfectly located.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Collector Hotel
The Hague

Lovely, boutique hotel in a perfect location, although previous warning that it was pedestrian only might have made our arrival a bit easier. Nice breakfast and bar.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Rotterdam - Markthal
Rotterdam - Markthal
The Netherlands

The Markthal in Rotterdam was underwhelming. Although the building was architecturally interesting, it was less of a fresh produce market and more of a food court, which was disappointing compared to what we expected.

Bruges - Boat Tour (optional)
Bruges - Boat Tour (optional)
Belgium

The boat tour in Bruges was a must-do, and it was great fun. Despite the long lines, we went early, and it was a wonderful experience comparable to iconic Disneyland rides.

Brussels - Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries
Brussels - Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries
Belgium

The Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries in Brussels were okay but not as comprehensive as expected. Although dotted with the 'best' chocolate shops, we missed out on locating the complete gallery experience.

Bruges - Private guided walking tour
Bruges - Private guided walking tour
Belgium

The private guided walking tour of Bruges was a pleasant experience. The guide struck the perfect balance of information and humor, making the walk enjoyable.

Rotterdam - Kinderdijk windmills by water shuttle
Rotterdam - Kinderdijk windmills by water shuttle
The Netherlands

The Kinderdijk windmills visit by water shuttle was not as impressive as hoped. There was some transportation confusion getting to the river shuttle, but our problem was quickly answered by the specialist.

Rotterdam - Cube Houses
Rotterdam - Cube Houses
The Netherlands

Seeing the Cube Houses in Rotterdam right when we got off the train was fascinating. It's something I read about, and seeing them in person did not disappoint.

Delft - Delft blue pottery
Delft - Delft blue pottery
The Netherlands

Exploring the Delft blue pottery and having high tea in Delft was an enlightening and lovely experience. We learned more than we expected and these activities were a delightful addition to our itinerary.

The Hague - Day trip to Delft
The Hague - Day trip to Delft
The Hague

The day trip to Delft was absolutely lovely. Despite feeling there might have been more to see in The Hague, Delft was perfect and had so much to offer.

The Hague - Mauritshuis Museum
The Hague - Mauritshuis Museum
The Netherlands

The visit to the Mauritshuis Museum was a nice way to spend the day we arrived. It was a fine excursion and added a pleasant touch to our itinerary.

Keukenhof & tulips fields by private transport
Keukenhof & tulips fields by private transport
The Netherlands

The tulip fields by private transport was a fantastic experience, with our driver taking us to more tulip fields than we imagined! He was a great guy and we thoroughly enjoyed the private tour.

Local specialist: Mieke Arendsen
Mieke
Mieke Arendsen
Local specialist in The Netherlands | Replied on May 07, 2026

Dear Lee, thank you for taking the time to review the trip - your feedback is very much appreciated. Glad to hear you have enjoyed the trip and I will pass on your compliments to Roland. It has been an absolute pleasure organizing the trip for you.
All the best to you!!
Best regards,
Mieke

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