Literally translated as the "Low Lands," the Netherlands is much higher in fun and refinement. Though densely populated, the country is highly urbanized, with an intense inclination towards orderly channels, clean streets, and packed buildings reflecting the unique Dutch Golden Age architecture. The countryside is a verdant expanse of flat land dotted with picturesque tulip fields, the quintessential windmills, and colorful towns and villages. The Netherlands is very liberal and welcoming, attracting millions to its orderly (kind of wild) vibrant life and unique profile that allures the young and the old together.
A walkable city distinguished for its many parks, canals, pubs, flamboyant discotheques, and youthful, liberated atmosphere. Amsterdam attracts millions who flock for short stays, usually weekends, to enjoy a touch of Bohemian lifestyle coupled with friendliness and beautiful sites. The city is a central nightlife hub in Europe as it is ultra-vibrant and packed with pubs, cafes, and restaurants. Main attractions include the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, itself near the Van Gogh Museum; the Royal Palace; Dam Square; the rather conspicuous Scheepvaarthuis, or Shipping House; the Concertgebouw Theatre; and the Magere Burg or Skinny Bridge crossing The Amstel River.
The largest port in Europe and 10th largest globally, Rotterdam is not all too different from its Bohemian sister, Amsterdam, given its massive number of bars and, clubs; but it is quite attractive. Its main sights include the towering Euromast; the iconic Erasmus Bridge; its magnificent Stadhuis or City Hall; the Kunstal or Art Hall; the Wereldmuseum; Europe'sEurope's first skyscraper, the Art Nouveau Witte Huis or ''White House'' (no relation to DC…); and the strangely futuristic Cube Homes and Markthal office buildings. Summers become an even brighter sight with the arrival of the city's Caribbean-themed Summer Carnaval.
It'sIt's one of the largest cities in the Netherlands, with much well preserved old architecture. This marvelous city highlights the spectacular St. Martin'sMartin's Cathedral, the DOMUnder -an underground attraction tracing Dutch history through archaeological ruins dating 45 CE, the Centraal Speelklok Museums.
Here, you can traverse the grand old homes that once belonged to the aristocracy and now serve as home to the country's parliament. Be sure to visit the Knight'sKnight's Hall or Ridderzaal, a large medieval hall that's been immaculately conserved. You can stroll easily to the city's best shopping and dining opportunities, where you will find several tourist attractions too, like the famous Peace Palace, built-in 1913, and home of the International Court of Justice.
It is one of the most beautiful towns in Noord-Holland; Haarlem is just a few minutes away from Amsterdam and makes for a fabulous break from the crowds of its much bigger neighbor. Here, you can walk the lovely streets of the old port area without the crowds, driving in the many charming old homes and buildings of the historic Bakenesser Gracht area.
Located just 40 minutes drive from Amsterdam, you will enjoy the country's leading tulip-growing industry. Recognized in the Netherlands as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof covers a useful 70 acres and is deemed one of the world's most extensive public gardens. Don’t Don’t miss to visit the museum in Lisse dedicated to the history of the country's most prestigious flower.
