When visiting The Netherlands most tourists stick to Amsterdam, and maybe Utrecht or The Hague. But there is so much more to see! That’s why we created this list of 10 amazing cities across The Netherlands. They are off the beaten path but surely worth a day trip.
1. Leiden
As the Netherlands’ oldest student city, there is always something going on in Leiden. Located between Amsterdam and The Hague, you don’t have to go out of your way to visit this city. There are plenty of museums to visit, and Naturalis is exceptional. It has over 3 million ancient fossils and an extensive dinosaur collection. The city center is pretty, with arguably the most beautiful canals in The Netherlands, good shopping streets, and countless bars. The whole city was built around an impressive 12th-century castle (‘Burcht’), so do not forget to pay a visit.
2. Delft
Although mainly known for its pottery (Delfts Blauw) rather than its scenery, Delft is one of the most picture-perfect cities in The Netherlands. This scenic, compact city now hosts many students which you can join for a drink at the city café ‘De Waag’, which brings you back to medieval times, as it is one of the city’s oldest buildings. If you are into art, visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft. Here, you will get to know everything about the life of the artist of light, Johannes Vermeer, who lived in Delft his whole life. The best day to visit Delft is Thursday, as the big market on the beautiful central square will open up.
3. Dordrecht
As one of the few cities on this list, Dordrecht does not have canals, however, its ‘inland ports’ are even more picturesque! Situated on the crossing of two rivers, Dordrecht is one of the oldest trading towns in The Netherlands. You will see this in the rich architecture of this beautiful city. Take a boat tour, go shopping, or even go on a trip to the famous Kinderdijk.
4. Groningen
Located in the far North, Groningen often gets skipped by the tourist masses that stick to Amsterdam and its surroundings. Do not make this mistake! Only 2 hours by train and you are right in the center of this beautiful place. As a real student city, the bars are always overflowing, people are out on the street and all the squares are ‘popping’. The remarkable Groninger Museum will feed all the art lovers with a cool, contemporary collection while strolling along the Hoger- and Lager der A will show you all of Groningen’s beautiful old monuments. For the best view with a drink, go up to the modern ‘Forum’. You can also find a library, cinema and much more here.
5. Leeuwarden
As the capital of the distinctive province of Friesland, Leeuwarden is not your typical Dutch town. The inhabitants speak Frisian and are known to be a bit more holding back. The city itself, however, is as outspoken as it can be. Stroll around the beautiful canals of Europe’s cultural capital in 2018 and learn all about Friesland in The Fries Museum. (If you are in Friesland for a longer period of time, visit all 11 cities!)
6. Zwolle
As part of the old Hanseatic League, Zwolle and other Northern European cities flourished in the 14th and 15th centuries, way before the likes of Amsterdam. Nowadays, Zwolle is the perfect mix between a hip town with a beautiful medieval city center. You will find a modern bookstore in an old church, good urban food next to the old city gates, and a good amount of shops and stores to spend your day in.
7. Maastricht
This Bourgondic city feels more like Southern France than The Netherlands, but here it is! You will find bars on every corner, big squares full of terraces, and people strolling through the old shopping streets and along the big river. Come here for a long weekend and eat your way through this culinary city. Do not forget to ‘climb’ the Pietersberg for a good view, and take a tour through its hidden caves underneath!
Read more about the charming city of Maastricht.
8. Amersfoort
In the shade of Utrecht lies the city of Amersfoort, a smaller, more relaxed version of its bigger brother. Amersfoort is quiet on the weekdays but comes to life on the weekends when hordes of Dutchies go for a shopping day, or a nice dinner after a long week of work. The city offers many beautiful picturesque views, like the mini canals, or the stunning Koppelpoort (one of the old entrance gates). Above all, being very close to Utrecht and Amsterdam, this centrally located city is very easy to reach.
9. s-’Hertogenbosch
s-Hertogenbosch, or simply ‘Den Bosch’ has a really nice vibe to it. The city is known for its friendly, open people and you will find people having drinks everywhere. Walk around this historic city and don’t forget to get a ‘Bosche Bol’ (a typical sweet treat) in one of the many bakeries the city hosts. If you feel like a party, come here in February. The whole city will turn itself upside down, as it is one of the best places to celebrate Carnaval in Europe!
10. Middelburg
Middelburg, the capital of Zeeland (yes, the original ‘Old Zealand’) used to be one of the most important and wealthy cities in the Dutch Golden Age (17th century). The now small city is therefore full of picturesque old monuments and it is no pain wandering around this proper ‘open-air museum’ for hours. If you are ready for some exercise, climb the Lange Jan Tower for a fantastic view of Middelburg and its surroundings. If you want to get to know a bit more about Zeeland, pay a visit to the Zeeuws Museum.