The Netherlands
5 cities
Thinking of a trip to The Netherlands? You won’t regret it—unless you dislike windmills, tulips, and a culture that somehow makes biking look like an Olympic sport. This flat yet fascinating country is a treasure trove of history and charm, where canals weave through cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht, inviting you to explore their picturesque streets. You can visit the Rijksmuseum to marvel at Dutch masterpieces or take a leisurely stroll through the Anne Frank House, where history whispers in every corner. Fancy some fun? Join the locals in their obsession with cycling as you pedal past the stunning Keukenhof gardens in spring, bursting with color. Don't forget to sample some stroopwafels or indulge in a herring—just be brave enough to try it raw! As night falls, you’ll find a lively bar scene filled with cozy pubs and quirky clubs, especially in Amsterdam. With so much to see and do, what’s your excuse for not hopping on a plane?
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Places we adore in The Netherlands 
The Netherlands Weather
What's the weather like in The Netherlands? 
The Netherlands boasts a maritime climate, where rain and wind are as common as the iconic windmills. Winters are brisk and damp, with temperatures hovering around freezing, while summers flirt with warmth but often retreat into cool breezes and scattered showers. Spring and autumn dance between sunshine and rain, making it a prime time for tulips and cycling in muddy puddles. And let’s not forget the infamous Dutch "moisture"—a polite way of saying it’s likely to rain at any moment, so bring an umbrella and your best sense of humor!
The Netherlands Weather
Pack the essentials
What to know for The Netherlands
When planning your trip to the Netherlands, there are a few essential tidbits to keep in mind to ensure your experience is both enjoyable and memorable. From navigating the charming canals to indulging in delicious stroopwafels, here’s what you need to know before you go!
- Public Transport is Your Best Friend: The Netherlands boasts an efficient public transport system, including trains, trams, and buses. Get an OV-chipkaart for easy travel across cities without having to fumble for change like a lost tourist.
- Bikes Rule the Roads: Don’t be surprised if you’re nearly run over by a cyclist! Biking is the preferred mode of transport, so keep an eye out for bike lanes and don’t forget to signal if you’re planning a turn—no one wants to be the tourist who causes a pile-up!
- Language is Not a Barrier: While Dutch is the official language, the majority of the population speaks English fluently. So don’t worry if your Dutch consists of just “stroopwafel” and “gezellig”—you’ll get by just fine!
- Cashless is the Way to Go: The Dutch love their digital payments. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have a small amount of cash for those charming little markets or that random café that’s stuck in a time warp.
With these essentials in mind, you’re set for a fantastic adventure in the Netherlands. Just remember to bring your sense of humor and maybe a raincoat—because, let’s face it, it’s the Netherlands!
Packing list for The Netherlands
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket
- Bicycle lock
- Power adapter
- Windmill-shaped cookie cutter
- Local currency (Euros)
- Sense of humor for dealing with Dutch weather