While windmills and wooden clogs may evoke traditional stereotypes, today the Netherlands is equally known for its liberal, open-minded culture, and remarkable feat of reclaiming land from the sea. Spring visitors will find tulips in abundance alongside some of the 32,000 kilometres of cycling paths which criss-crossed this famously flat landscape. Accommodation options abound, with the best places to stay in the Netherlands ranging from restored canal-side townhouses to sleek contemporary constructions. Many also offer excellent restaurants, soothing wellness experiences and the chance to gather with friends and family in a superb setting.
Art enthusiasts will discover that the Netherlands houses one of the world's finest collections of masterpieces. From Rembrandt and Van Gogh to Vermeer and Mondrian, Dutch masters are displayed across exceptional museums throughout the country. Rotterdam's modernist marvels contrast beautifully with Amsterdam's charming canal houses, while characterful cities like Delft, Utrecht, and Maastricht each offer distinct cultural treasures and architectural heritage. The contemporary cultural scene is also hugely lively, with pop-up exhibitions, gigs and performances held in restored warehouses, leafy gardens, along riverbanks and on small islands during the summer months.
While Amsterdam deservedly captures international attention with its UNESCO-listed canals and world-class museums, the Netherlands also rewards those who venture beyond the capital. Edam beckons with its famous cheese, The Hague impresses as the seat of parliament and home to royal residences and international courts, and the islands of the Wadden Sea invite laid-back exploration in the sunshine. Whether you're drawn to the traditional Dutch villages of the Zaan Region with their wooden houses and windmills, or prefer exploring the maritime heritage of historic ports, the best places to stay in the Netherlands are studded right across the country, offering easy access to seemingly endless attractions. Do book your trip well in advance if travelling during the summer — the Netherlands is always very popular!