Discover the Top Cities in the Netherlands
The Netherlands may be small, but it's packed with attractions and easily navigable by its excellent transportation network. Whether you're city hopping or heading straight to Amsterdam, you'll find a wealth of sights and activities.
Visit the top destinations in the Netherlands and enjoy the convenience of short travel times between cities. Even London is just a high-speed train ride away from Amsterdam.
Explore these cities and discover the best they have to offer with our guide to the top cities in the Netherlands.
1. Amsterdam
Amsterdam, a European tourism hub, is renowned for its historic canals, especially in the Jordaan neighborhood with its 17th-century homes and hidden courtyards. Visit Grachtengordel for iconic bridges and houseboats, and don't miss the Rijksmuseum for masterpieces by Rembrandt and other Old Masters. Other highlights include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Vondelpark.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Areas & Hotels.
Explore Amsterdam by renting a car.
2. Utrecht
Utrecht's Old Town, Binnenstad, is home to the impressive St. Martin's Cathedral and the separate Domtoren. Discover the city's Roman roots at DOMUnder and visit the Museum Speelklok and the Centraal Museum. Don't miss the Railway Museum for a glimpse into the past.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Utrecht.
3. Maastricht
Maastricht, with its Roman history, is known for its bridges like the Sint Servaasbrug. Explore historic sites, the medieval town walls, and the ancient St. Servaaskerk. The St. Pietersberg Caves offer an underground adventure.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Maastricht
4. Delft
Delft is synonymous with its iconic Delftware pottery. Visit De Porceleyne Fles to see the creation of these blue and white ceramics. Wander the Old Town's canals and enjoy the historic ambiance.
5. Rotterdam
Rotterdam, a modern architectural marvel, is home to the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk and the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. Don't miss the Euromast and the Cube Houses, and take a harbor tour to see the bustling port.
6. The Hague
The Hague's Binnenhof is a historic political center with the Knight's Hall. Nearby attractions include the Great St. James Church and the Peace Palace.
7. Haarlem
Haarlem offers a quieter alternative to Amsterdam with its historic Bakenesser Gracht district and the Grote Kerk. Visit the Teyler's Museum for art and science exhibits.
8. Lisse (Keukenhof)
Keukenhof in Lisse is a tulip paradise and one of the world's largest public gardens. Visit in spring for the flower parade and the tulip museum.
9. Arnhem
Arnhem, known for the Battle of Arnhem, also boasts the Netherlands Open Air Museum and Hoge Veluwe National Park.
10. Breda
Breda's rich history is evident in its Old Town, Begijnhof district, and the Grote Kerk. Explore the Port Quarter and Breda Castle.
11. Eindhoven
Eindhoven, the "City of Light," is known for the Van Abbemuseum's modern art and the Vincentre, dedicated to Van Gogh's life.
12. Groningen
Groningen is a cultural hub with festivals like the Noorderzon Theater Festival. Visit Martin's Church and enjoy the city's bike-friendly atmosphere.
13. Leiden
Leiden is famous for introducing tulips to Europe. Visit the Wednesday market for local produce and enjoy canal tours.
14. Nijmegen
Nijmegen offers scenic walks along the Rhine and historic sites like the Valkhof. Enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere and café culture.
