Beautiful Cities & Towns In The Netherlands You Shouldn’t Miss

Looking for the best towns and cities to visit in the Netherlands? You’re in the right place.

I just returned from a trip and was genuinely surprised by how much this small country offers. The people were warm, the vibe relaxed, and every place I visited had its own personality.

Of course, the Netherlands has its greatest hits—canals, windmills, tulips, and stroopwafels.

But once you go beyond the cliches, you’ll find lively university towns, moody medieval streets, bold modern architecture, and some of the best small museums in Europe.

This guide is a roundup of the Dutch destinations that left the biggest impression on me. I’ve listed them in alphabetical order to keep things simple.

Here are the places you’ll discover:

Best Places To Visit In The Netherlands

Amsterdam

The “Venice of the North,” Amsterdam is compact and walkable, but packed with cultural treasures.

The historic canal belt, Jordaan, and the Nine Streets are ideal areas to explore on foot. They offer up a mix of elegant architecture, boutique shopping, and cafes along the water. There’s something visually interesting around every corner.

For art lovers, the Museumplein district is essential. It’s home to the world class Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk.

Just a short walk away is the more intimate Rembrandt House Museum or the contemporary photography hub, FOAM. Amsterdam’s museums range from grand and historic to quirky and unexpected.

The city’s past is layered into its streets, from the sobering Anne Frank House to hidden courtyards like the Begijnhof. Even in the heart of the tourist zone, you’ll find quiet lanes and postcard perfect bridges.

In the evening, a canal cruise is a classic for a reason. The bridges glow, the water reflects the city lights, and you get a different perspective on the layout and rhythm of the neighborhoods.

Amsterdam is often defined by contrasts: Golden Age opulence and gritty street art, grand concert halls and dive bars, bikes whizzing past serene canals.

It’s modern, messy, beautiful, and full of life. And it doesn’t take long to feel its pull.

To avoid disappointment, you’ll definitely need to pre-book tickets for the following attractions well in advance:

• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House
• Rembrandt House
• Canal cruise
• Bike tour
• Guided walking tour

Most attractions in Amsterdam are covered by the Amsterdam City card, except for the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House.

Where To Stay: Hotel V Nesplein (industrial-chic vibes with mid-century modern influences); Rosewood Amsterdam (decor inspired by the Rijksmuseum); Waldorf Astoria (housed in canal-side mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries)

Delft

Delft feels like a postcard brought to life. With its tree-lined canals, elegant gables, and pedestrian friendly streets, it’s one of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, but full of layered history and quiet beauty at every turn.

The town is forever linked to the artist Johannes Vermeer. He lived and worked here in the 17th century.

You can learn more about him at the Vermeer Centrum. While none of his original paintings are in Delft, the center does a good job contextualizing his life and techniques.

Delft also has strong royal ties. The Nieuwe Kerk, which looms over the central market square, houses the tombs of the Dutch royal family, including William of Orange.

>>> Click here to pre-book a Delft walking tour

Across the square, the Stadhuis offers a striking contrast with its red shutters and Renaissance flair. If you’re up for a climb, the church tower has one of the best panoramic views in the country.

The town’s other major claim to fame is its iconic blue and white ceramics. You can visit the Royal Delft factory to see how the hand-painted pottery is made and browse the historical collection. Even if you skip the tour, shops around town sell both modern and antique pieces.

>>> Click here to book a ticket and tour of Royal Delft

Delft is also just pleasant to be in. There are quiet little canals to cross, charming streets to wander, and plenty of inviting canal-side cafes to duck into. The town feels lived in, not overrun.

Easily reached by train from The Hague or Rotterdam, Delft makes a perfect day trip.

Where To Stay: Hotel Arsenaal by WestCord (housed in a 17th century weapons depot on the Oude Delft canal); Hotel Johannes Vermeer (boutique stay, just a minute from Market Square)

Edam

Edam is located just north of Amsterdam, easily reached in under 30 minutes by bus or car.

Though it’s now quiet and residential, Edam was once a prosperous port town in the 16th and 17th centuries, thanks to shipbuilding, trade, and of course, its famous cheese.

The town is beautifully preserved, with boutique shops, brick canal-side houses, and a compact historic center. You’ll find charming bridges, lush gardens, and cobbled lanes perfect for wandering.

Edam is small. You can easily see it in half a day. But it feels like stepping back into a slower, more gracious time.

Edam is world-famous for its mild, semi-hard cheese, which is traditionally wrapped in red wax.

You can visit the Edam Cheese Museum for a bite-sized history lesson. Or try a cheese tasting at one of the shops.

Try to time your visit for the weekly summer cheese markets held on Wednesdays in July and August. You’ll see re-enactors in traditional dress roll and weigh cheeses as they did centuries ago.

And don’t miss Chocolaterie ’t Snoepwinkeltje en Chocolaterie at Spui 4. The boutique candy and chocolate shop is beloved for its whimsical pink facade, floral details, and delicious sweets.

>>> Click here to book a guided day trip from Amsterdam to Edam

Where To Stay: l’Auberge Damhotel Edam (historic boutique hotel)

Gouda

In 2019, the Dutch tourism board announced it would stop promoting the Netherlands in the traditional sense. Instead, it decided to managing over-tourism by spotlighting lesser known cities beyond Amsterdam.

One of the most appealing examples of this approach is Gouda, pronounced “how-da.” It’s a small historic city in the southern Netherlands that offers charm, accessibility, and a slower pace.

Gouda is internationally famous for its namesake cheese and Thursday cheese market. It’s been produced here since 1184 and ranks among the world’s most popular cheeses.

But beyond its cheese legacy, Gouda makes an excellent base for a car-free visit. The city is well connected by train and has an extensive network of cycling paths, many with e-bike charging stations.

The town itself is postcard-perfect, with a medieval square, canals, and stepped-gable buildings.

The Town Hall is especially handsome. In fact, if you climb up to the balcony, you have a great view over the main square and cheese market.

One of its newer attractions, the Gouda Cheese Experience, opened in 2020 inside a butter yellow former military barracks from the 19th century.

It offers an interactive and surprisingly fun dive into the history and production of Gouda, ending with a generous tasting of artisanal aged cheeses.

>>> Click here to book a Gouda walking tour

Where To Stay: Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis Gouda (beautifully renovated 16th century orphanage); Goudse Watertoren (architect-designed B&B in a converted water tower)

Haarlem

Just a short hop from the tulip fields of the Bollenstreek, Haarlem feels like a quieter, more refined cousin to Amsterdam. Its historic center is full of charm, with winding streets, peaceful hofjes, and a lively mix of students and locals.

Though often overshadowed by the capital, Haarlem has its own identity. The city combines art, history, and coastal energy in a way that’s hard to resist.

One of Haarlem’s standout attractions is the Frans Hals Museum, housed in a former almshouse with a lovely garden courtyard.

Inside, you’ll find portraits by Hals and other Haarlem School painters. The museum also includes period furnishings, silver, ceramics, and decorative arts that round out the city’s Golden Age story.

>>> Click here to pre-book a canal tour

Just a short walk away, the Teylers Museum offers a different experience. Founded in 1784, it houses an eclectic mix of fossils, scientific instruments, and master drawings by artists like Michelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt.

Haarlem’s art scene extends to De Hallen, a modern art space on the Grote Markt. In two buildings, it hosts contemporary exhibits, Dutch Impressionists, and changing installations of sculpture, ceramics, and textiles.

And no visit to Haarlem is complete without stepping into the Grote Kerk, or St. Bavo’s Church, which towers over the main square. The church houses the famous Müller organ once played by both Handel and Mozart.

During the summer, free concerts fill the space with sound. It’s also the burial place of Frans Hals.

>>> Click here to book a 2 hour Haarlem walking tour

Where To Stay: Boutique Hotel Staats (stylish boutique hotel); Hotel ML
(contemporary luxury and central location on the Grote Markt)

Hoorn

Hoorn is a charming, historic town that feels a bit like a living museum.

Once a major player during the Dutch Golden Age, it was a powerful port for the Dutch East India Company. Over time, it lost its power and status to Amsterdam.

But you can still feel that legacy in its old warehouses, stately homes, and museum collections.

Hoorn is a small town and can easily be covered on foot. It’s just a quick stroll around the main square, cobbled lanes, photogenic canals, and harbor.

The main square, Roode Steen, is home to the Westfries Museum. It tells the story of the region’s trading heyday and has a collection of Rembrandt’s sketches.

Just steps away is the striking Waag (Weigh House) and a statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen. He was a controversial VOC governor (war criminal perhaps?) born in Hoorn.

You’ll also see the Hoofdtoren tower. It’s a nice place to stop and eat.

The harbor area is one of the prettiest in the Netherlands. You’ll see old ships docked in the inner harbor, and it’s a great place for a stroll or waterside lunch.

>>> Click here to book a guided city tour

Where To Stay: I absolutely loved the Heavens Hotel. It’s in a converted church with preserved Gothic pillars, stained glass windows, and vaulted architecture. Chef’s Kiss!

Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is one of the most iconic and picturesque places to visit in the Netherlands. It’s famous for its 19 historic windmills that give off Dutch fairytale vibes.

Just 9 miles from Rotterdam, Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip for anyone visiting the region.

The windmills were built in the 18th century to manage water levels in the polder (reclaimed land below sea level). Today, they’re one of the best places to understand the Netherlands’ long standing battle with water.

You can visit the museum windmills, including two furnished ones that show how millers once lived and worked.

The town is very flat and easy to get around. It’s perfect for cycling.

Entrance to the outdoor area is free. But you need a ticket to enter the windmills or take a boat tour.

There’s a free app that offers an audio guide if you want a self-guided tour.

>>> Click here to book a guided tour from Amsterdam

Where To Stay: Villa Augustus (quirky, upscale hotel in a former water tower with stunning gardens)

Leiden

Overlooked Leiden is tucked between Amsterdam and The Hague. The city has many claims to fame.

It’s an academic center, the birthplace of Rembrandt, and the final European home of the pilgrims before they set sail to America. There’s an upscale aura, making it feel like the Oxford of Holland.

The pretty historic core can be explored in a couple hours. And did you know? Leiden has more canals than Amsterdam!

Walking or biking along the canals, you’ll see bridges, weeping willows, hidden courtyards, and stepped gable houses. It’s everything you’d want from a Dutch city, just less crowded.

The city is full of little hofjes, residential courtyards. There are 35 altogether. Most are private, but a few are open to the public.

Leiden is also a city of museums. There are a dozen or so, covering everything from classical antiquities to medicine to windmills. Beware, they’re all closed on Monday.

And don’t forget Leiden University. It’s the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575 by William of Orange. It has a rich academic legacy and counts numerous Nobel Prize winners and royals among its alumni.

Next door, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, established in 1590. It’s a lush haven with rare plants, greenhouses, and a historic Japanese garden.

>>> Click here to book a city walking tour

Where To Stay: Steenhof Suites (luxury suites in a restored 15th century building); Boutique Hotel d’Oude Morsch (chic and modern boutique hotel in a historic military barracks)

Maastricht

Travelers often overlook Maastricht. But this elegant southern Dutch city offers a compelling mix of history and charm.

Set along the Meuse River near the Belgian border, Maastricht feels worlds away from the flat landscapes of the north.

Its cobbled streets wind past stately 17th century townhouses and buzzy squares. There are remnants of medieval fortifications, including towers, bastions, and city gates that still mark the old city perimeter.

One of Maastricht’s most fascinating features, though, lies beneath the surface. The city is built atop a labyrinth of underground limestone quarries, part of a vast network of around 500 sites.

These passageways, some dating back to Roman times, were actively used from the 13th century onward for mining marlstone. Today, many are open to the public.

>>> Click here to book a 2 hour Maastricht walking tour

Above ground, Maastricht is equally appealing. The city is known for its cafe culture, designer boutiques, and lively student scene.

Don’t miss Vrijthof Square, home to the grand Basilica of Saint Servatius and the Sint Janskerk. Or a walk along the restored city walls near Helpoort, the oldest city gate in the Netherlands.

Maastricht is also a gateway to the rolling hills and vineyards of Limburg. It’s a city that blends Dutch, Belgian, and even French influences—all reflected in its food, architecture, and laid back pace.

It’s ideal for travelers who want history without the crowds, a touch of the unexpected, and a more cosmopolitan Dutch experience.

Where To Stay: Kruisherenhotel Maastricht (unique luxury hotel in a 15th century monastery); Maison Haas Hustinx & Spa (refined boutique hotel on the Vrijthof)

Rotterdam

Rotterdam doesn’t try to charm you with gables and Golden Age nostalgia. Instead, it grabs your attention with bold architecture, modern design, and a skyline that is more Berlin than Amsterdam.

Bombed during World War II and rebuilt with ambition, Rotterdam is where the Netherlands shows off its forward thinking edge.

The best way to take it all in is with a stroll through the city center. Futuristic structures like the Cube Houses tilt over pedestrian streets and the Markthal boasts a vibrant food market and massive digital mural.

Just a few blocks away, the red Witte Huis, Europe’s first skyscraper, stands in contrast to the angular new builds that now define the city’s aesthetic.

Art and architecture buffs shouldn’t miss the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen. It’s a mirrored, bowl-shaped art storage facility you can actually visit.

For something more classic, the riverside neighborhood of Delfshaven offers a rare glimpse of old Rotterdam. It comes complete with canals, a windmill, and historic warehouses.

The Erasmus Bridge, nicknamed “The Swan” for its graceful shape, links the city center to the southern bank of the Maas River.

Here, you’ll find the Kop van Zuid, home to striking towers like De Rotterdam and the iconic Hotel New York, once the headquarters of the Holland-America Line. It’s a great area for modern waterfront views and stylish dining.

Rotterdam is also known for its cultural edge. You’ll find contemporary art at the Kunsthal, street art scattered across neighborhoods, and a thriving culinary scene that ranges from Michelin-starred dining to Indonesian rijsttafel and street food stalls.

If Amsterdam is the past and The Hague the political heart, Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ boldest step into the future. It’s edgy, creative, and confident, and easily one of the most exciting cities in the Netherlands to explore.

To get an overview and see the city highlights, you might consider booking this highlights and hidden gems walking tour with a local. Or if you’re into contemporary architecture, this is THE place for an architecture tour.

Where To Stay: Suitehotel Pincoffs (elegant 4 star hotel overlooking the Erasmus Bridge); Nhow (concept hotel with shops, restaurants, etc); Hotel New York, (historic Art Deco property)

The Hague

Though it isn’t the capital, The Hague—or Den Haag in Dutch—is the political heart of the Netherlands.

It’s where the Dutch parliament meets, where the royal family resides, and where many of the country’s most important decisions are made.

As the third largest city after Amsterdam and Rotterdam, The Hague plays a central role in the nation’s political, legal, and economic life.

The city’s roots trace back to the 13th century, when the Binnenhof was built as a hunting lodge for the Counts of Holland. That same complex still functions today as the seat of government.

While firmly modern and forward facing, The Hague retains an air of old world elegance. Landmarks like the Ridderzaal(Hall of Knights) and the Peace Palace underline the city’s historical and diplomatic importance.

Yet there’s also a relaxed, coastal quality to life here. This is thanks to its leafy parks, open squares, and proximity to the beach at Scheveningen.

The city is also home to several world-class museums that are a huge draw.

The Mauritshuis is housed in a 17th century mansion near the Binnenhof. It contains a stunning collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. It includes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson, and works by Frans Hals and Rubens.

>>> Click here for a guided walking tour and Mauritshuis admission

Nearby, the Escher Museum is dedicated to the mind bending prints of M.C. Escher. It’s housed in a former royal palace with interactive exhibits that appeal to both art lovers and families.

The Kunstmuseum Den Haag offers an outstanding collection of modern art, including the largest collection of Mondrian paintings in the world.

With its grand architecture, global institutions, elegant neighborhoods, and excellent cultural offerings, The Hague feels distinctly different from other Dutch cities. It’s polished, cosmopolitan, and full of surprises.

Where To Stay: Hotel Des Indes (iconic 5 star hotel with opulent décor and historic charm); Paleis Hotel (boutique luxury stay steps from the art museums.

Utrecht

Utrecht might just be the Netherlands’ best kept secret. This lively university town blends medieval history with a relaxed, modern energy. It has all the charm of Amsterdam, minus the crowds.

The canals here are different, too. They’re sunken and lined with old wharf cellars that have been transformed into cozy cafes, indie boutiques, and wine bars. It makes for an atmospheric stroll, without having to dodge swarms of tour groups.

Towering above it all is the Dom Tower, the tallest church spire in the Netherlands. You can climb its 465 steps for sweeping views of the city. Or just admire it from below with a coffee in Domplein Square.

Right next door, the Dom Church is worth a peek. Don’t miss the tranquil cloister garden behind the nave.

>>> Click here to book a Utrecht walking tour

Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Centraal Museum, which has everything from Utrecht Caravaggistas to modern design.

It’s also home to the world’s largest collection of work by Dick Bruna, creator of the beloved bunny Miffy, a local hero in these parts. Right next door is the Miffy Museum, great if you’re traveling with kids (or just want a dose of whimsy).

Another of Utrecht’s standout spots is the Museum Speelklok.

It’s a delightfully quirky museum filled with self-playing instruments, from delicate music boxes to full-on mechanical organs. It’s unexpectedly fun, and a hit with almost everyone who walks in the door.

For something quieter, explore the Oudegracht canal or stop in at St. Martin’s Cathedral. It was partially destroyed by a tornado in the 17th century, leaving the nave and tower forever separated.

Just 15 minutes from the historic center is a beauty, Da Haar Castle. It’s known for its dramatic towers, opulent interiors, drawbridges, and romantic gardens. In

The vibe in Utrecht is less manicured than Amsterdam but no less beautiful. If you’re looking for a city with character, great food, and serious cultural depth, without the tourist crush, Utrecht more than delivers.

It’s a perfect base (great train connections) or day trip. And once you’re there, you might just wish you had more time.

Where To Stay: Grand Hotel Karel V (top luxury hotel, set in a 14th century monastery); Hotel The Nox (sleek boutique hotel with elegant interiors)

Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a recreated Dutch village that spins traditional culture around like it’s on a lazy Susan.

This open air museum brings the historic lifestyles of the Zaan region to life, with working windmills, quaint green wooden houses, and locals who perform their crafts with genuine gusto.

Back in the day, this stretch of the Zaan River was lined with hundreds of windmills. They powered everything from sawmills to spice grinders.

Today, a handful remain, and many are open to visitors. Each one was designed for a different purpose, and you can actually step inside and see the massive wooden gears in action.

The town is a bit of a patchwork now, with loosely connected attractions that all charge separate admission fees.

If you plan to explore more than one, it’s worth getting the Zaanse Schans Card for convenience and savings.

Two things you really shouldn’t skip: the Zaanse Time Museum and the windmills.

The museum tells the story of Dutch clockmaking with intricate timepieces dating back to the 1500s. It’s a surprisingly engaging stop, even if you didn’t think you were into clocks.

The windmills at Zaanse Schans are fully functional. Each served a unique purpose: sawing wood, grinding spices, producing oil, or making paint.

You can book a ticket to tour several of them to see their original mechanisms in action and learn how they powered Dutch industry in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Touristy? Sure. But it’s an easy and worthwhile day trip from Amsterdam. Just time your visit early or late in the day to avoid the crowds and tour groups.

Where To Stay: Heerlijck Slaapen op de Zaanse Schans (charming B&B located directly in the heritage area with windmill views)

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best places to visit in the Netherlands. You may find these other Netherlands travel guides useful:

• Tips for visiting the Netherlands
• One day in Amsterdam itinerary
• 2 days in Amsterdam itinerary
• One day in Rotterdam itinerary
• Best things to do in Delft
• Guide to the Anne Frank House
• Guide to the Rijksmuseum
• Guide to Keukenhof Gardens
• Guide to Rembrandt House
• Guide to the Van Gogh Museum

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