The Netherlands is a fascinating country that attracts tourists for its culture, history and thriving modernity. Its landscapes are unique across Europe. With a full third of the country below sea level, the ever-present threat of flooding has led the Dutch to develop a remarkable irrigation system. The world-famous windmills and canals, spread across the country, do not just provide a pretty background for photos — they also play an essential role in keeping the floodwaters at bay.
The Dutch countryside, with its charming windmills and wooden houses, may seem sleepy and tranquil. Its cities present a completely different side to the country. Amsterdam, the nation’s capital, has long been synonymous with wild parties, a city where anything goes. The Dutch dedication to personal liberty means that illegal activities in other countries, such as prostitution and smoking cannabis, are embraced here. Hedonistic travellers flock to Amsterdam to enjoy a taste of Europe’s wildest nightlife.
Regarding cuisine, one thing truly stands out in the Netherlands — cheese! The country is the home of world-famous cheeses, like gouda and edam, as well as hundreds of specialist varieties. Dutch cheese markets, featuring traditionally-dressed artisans selling their bright orange cheese wheels, still take place across the country, particularly in the summer. As well as cheese, the Netherlands is famous for its beer, from well-known brands like Heineken to small artisan drinks.
The Netherlands has a rich cultural history, but it’s particularly known for its art. Works by the Dutch Masters, including Rembrandt and Vermeer, can be seen in the country’s finest art gallery, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. One of the most famous and influential painters in history, Vincent van Gogh, was Dutch. Although not successful during his lifetime, he is celebrated across the country today, and his wonderful works are on display in many different art galleries.
Destinations
Best time to travel
The Netherlands has cold winters and warm summers, with changeable weather in between. Summer is undoubtedly high season, but there’s enough to interest travellers at any time of year – just make sure you pack the right clothes for the season.
March – June
Spring is the most changeable season in the Netherlands, and it’s hard to know what to expect from one day to the next. Spring in the Netherlands also means tulips, attracting tourists from all over the world! Tulip season runs from mid-March to mid-May, with plenty of festivals and parties to celebrate the famous blooms.
Weather
The amount of sun and rain can vary enormously. Bring an umbrella, but don’t be surprised if you leave it in the hotel most days.
Events & parties
The highlight of the social calendar is King’s Day on the 27th of April, which sees the largest street party in Europe spill across the streets and canals of Amsterdam. Visitors are always welcome to join in the fun. Put on an orange t-shirt — it’s the country’s national colour — and on King’s Day, everyone wears it as a gesture of national unity.
Price evolution
Although spring is not as expensive as summer, it can still be costly to visit the Netherlands at this time. In particular, you can expect to pay more during the King’s Day celebrations and when the tulips are in bloom.
Summer is packed with parties and festivals throughout the country. The Netherlands is a small country, but the temperature difference can still be felt in summer when the southern provinces are warmer than the north. There are also music festivals that run just about every week in the summer, with everything from techno beats at Awakenings in Amsterdam to the more sedate charms of the North Sea Jazz Festival.
Weather
The general weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot. The country is very humid, thanks to its unusual amount of water, so be prepared for mosquitos. Insect repellent is a must for any visitor in the summer months.
Events & parties
Amsterdam’s outrageous Pride Parade turns the canals rainbow-coloured in August. It’s one of the biggest and best Pride celebrations in Europe, attracting revellers from across the continent. Look out for Sneekweek, when the quiet town of Sneek bursts into life, hosting Europe’s largest inland sailing event.
Price evolution
Summer is peak season in the Netherlands, which can be hard on the wallet. Expect the prices of accommodation to increase. You’ll need to book well in advance to find anything approaching a bargain.
Autumn is a time of transition for the Dutch tourist industry. This time of year is also the wettest season in the Netherlands. November is a quieter month, as chilly nights and heavy rainfall keep most people tucked up indoors.
Weather
While there is rain throughout the country, the coastal provinces suffer the most. They experience heavy rainfall from the end of the summer onwards. November is the month with the most precipitation.
Events & parties
As the summer winds down, there are fewer music festivals but still plenty of events. September sees the Nederlands Film Festival, while October hosts Dutch Design Week and the Amsterdam Dance Event.
Price evolution
As the season continues, prices start to drop. In particular, bargain hunters should pay attention in October and November, when it’s possible to visit the country for a major discount.
December – March
Winter in the Netherlands is cold and wet, but you should still expect wild street parties, parades, and fun that lasts all night. For the traveller on a budget, winter is undoubtedly the best time to visit the Netherlands. Thick coats, scarves, gloves, and hats are all essential parts of the winter traveller’s wardrobe. In January, National Tulip Day marks the start of the world-famous tulip season, too.
Weather
Temperatures drop below freezing, particularly at night. Thanks to the country’s humidity, you can expect to feel the cold more than you would in a dry area.
Events & parties
Christmas in the Netherlands is a month-long affair, starting with gift exchanges for Sinterklaas on the 5th of December. Christmas markets and winter festivals can be found around the country, while New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam sees enormous fireworks displays. For something different and unexpected, head to Maastricht in February. This historically Catholic region goes wild for Carnaval, which is generally unmarked in the Protestant north.
Price evolution
You can expect accommodation to be significantly cheaper than at other times of the year, except during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Itineraries and plans
Visas, currency and restrictions
Where to stay
Photo Gallery
