things to do in holland
Holland, also known as the Netherlands, is a beautiful country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of exciting things to see and do. Here are some top attractions and activities to consider:
Must-see attractions:
- Canals of Amsterdam: Take a boat tour or stroll along the picturesque canals, admiring the city’s architecture and historic buildings.
- Rijksmuseum: Home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other famous Dutch Masters.
- Anne Frank House: Visit the museum dedicated to the Jewish girl who wrote a diary during WWII, hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam.
- Keukenhof Gardens: Marvel at the stunning tulips and other flowers in the world’s largest flower garden (open from March to May).
- Windmills of Kinderdijk: Explore the iconic windmills that helped to pump water out of the polders and make the Netherlands a fertile land.
Outdoor activities:
- Cycling: Holland is famous for its cycling culture, and you can rent a bike to explore the countryside, canals, and coastal areas.
- Beaches: Enjoy the beautiful beaches along the North Sea, such as Scheveningen, Noordwijk, and Wadden Sea.
- Hiking: Explore the scenic countryside, forests, and national parks, such as the Veluwe National Park and the Hoge Veluwe National Park.
- Kayaking: Paddle through the canals, rivers, and coastal areas, exploring the unique Dutch landscape.
- Visit a cheese farm: Learn about the art of cheese-making and sample some of Holland’s famous cheeses, such as Gouda and Edam.
Food and drink:
- Try traditional Dutch cuisine: Sample dishes like stamppot, herring, and pancakes, and wash it down with a cold beer or a glass of Heineken.
- Visit a market: Explore the bustling markets, such as the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam or the Bloemenmarkt in Amsterdam.
- Sample local wines: Holland has a growing wine industry, with many excellent wines to taste.
- Visit a brewery: Learn about the brewing process and sample some of Holland’s famous beers, such as Heineken and Amstel.
Festivals and events:
- King’s Day: Celebrate the Dutch king’s birthday with a festive market, music, and dancing (April 27th).
- Tulip Festival: Enjoy the stunning tulips in bloom, with many festivals and events throughout the Netherlands (March to May).
- Grachtenfestival: Attend the famous classical music festival, held in Amsterdam’s canals (August).
- Holland Festival: Experience the country’s vibrant arts scene, with music, theater, and dance performances (June).
Day trips:
- Utrecht: Visit the charming city, with its medieval architecture, canals, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Leiden: Explore the historic city, with its beautiful canals, charming streets, and world-class universities.
- The Hague: Visit the Netherlands’ seat of government, with its stunning architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Rotterdam: Discover the modern city, with its sleek architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and world-class museums.
These are just a few of the many amazing things to do in Holland. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.