South Holland (Zuid-Holland) is one of the Netherlands' most vibrant and diverse provinces, combining bustling urban centres with beautiful rural landscapes and a picturesque stretch of coastline. Home to major cities like Rotterdam, The Hague, and Leiden, this region represents the heart of Dutch culture, politics, and innovation. The best places to stay in South Holland are enormously wide-ranging, with lovely boutique boltholes, imposing landmark hotels and attractive rural retreats set across this fascinating region.
Culture-focused visitors can delight in discovering the world-class museums which stud The Hague, or admiring the futuristic architecture of bustling Rotterdam. Leiden is another favourite, with wonderfully preserved historic buildings lining picturesque canals, and Dordrecht prides itself on being the oldest city in the Netherlands. Delft may be famed for its blue-and-white tiles, but this small city also boasts a thriving foodie scene; perfect for couples, solo travellers or groups of friends eager to savour the region’s distinctive dishes.
Beyond towns and cities with buzzy markets and regular cultural events are more laid-back villages surrounded by fields and polders, windmills and waterways. Stroll through the dazzling tulip fields of the Bollenstreek, cycle and ramble along leafy trails, or navigate ancient canals in the sunshine. For a coastal escape, look no further than charming Noordwijk, with its iconic lighthouse, and elegant adults-only villa — undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in South Holland.
