Top places to visit in the Netherlands: Amsterdam, Hague, Rotterdam
I will be taking you on a journey to the beautiful country of tulips, canals, and windmills, the Netherlands. The Netherlands is famous for its cycling. It is said that there are more bikes than people living in the Netherlands. You will see individuals from children, adults and seniors riding through the streets on their bicycles. To the Dutch people, cycling is a way of life.
Are you still thinking about visiting the Netherlands, I can assure you that countless amazing places and experiences are waiting for you. Don’t go anywhere, because you are about to experience the culture, history and beauty of the Netherlands. Let’s begin this journey together.
HAGUE
My first stop is the Hague, the third-largest city in the Netherlands. While Amsterdam may be the official capital, the Hague is the political and administrative centre of the country and the home of the Dutch Royal family. The Hague is often called the “International city of peace and justice.” It is a title well-deserved given its role in international law and diplomacy.
Some Attractions Sites that you can visit/ Things to do in the Hague
The Peace Palace
It is an iconic building dedicated to the peaceful settlement of International disputes. The Peace Palace houses some of the most important institutions in international law, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
To give a bit of context, the Peace Palace was funded by Scottish-American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie who envisioned the building as a global hub for peace and justice.
Outside the building, you will find the Peace Flame, which burns continuously, symbolising the world’s commitment to peace and justice.
Binnenhof
Another key landmark you should add to your itinerary while in the Hague is the Binnenhof. The Binnenhof is a historic complex of buildings that has been the centre of Dutch politics for centuries. As you walk through the area, you can see the historic buildings that have stood the test of time.
Mauritshuis
If you love or are fascinated by art, The Hague has something special for you too. Visit the Mauritshuis, a museum that houses the world-famous painting “Girl with a pearl earring by Johannes Vermeer. It is worth noting that, the Mauritshuis was not originally a museum; it was built as a mansion by Johan Maurits who made his fortune from the slave trade during his time as Governor of the Dutch colony of Brazil. This mansion reflects the unfair wealth and power of its time.
The Passage
If you don’t mind shopping or window shopping, visit the Passage which is said to be the oldest shopping centre in the Netherlands. You will find boutiques and food and drink stores. It is free to wander around.
What do you think about the Hague?
ROTTERDAM
The next city that you should add to your itinerary while in the Netherlands is Rotterdam. It is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and a significant centre for trade.
One of the city’s most distinctive landmarks is the Yellow Cube Houses. Looking at the houses, what do you think of the architecture, their tilted cubes and hexagonal base which is said to resemble an abstract forest where each house represents a tree. To me, the yellow cube houses is a piece of art. I Would love your opinion, leave them in the comment box.
Another landmark that you should consider visiting when in Rotterdam is the Luchtsingel pedestrian bridge which is significant and said to be connecting three districts in Rotterdam and bringing people together in a unique way. This yellow bridge is a symbol of community spirit built from crowdfunding by residents. It seems that the city of Rotterdam loves yellow.
One place you should not miss visiting when in Rotterdam is the Markthal, housed in a stunning semicircular glass structure, with a ceiling adorned with colorful murals of fish, fruit, flowers, insects known as the “Horn of Plenty.”
When inside the Markthal, explore the vibrant market offering everything from fresh produce to local delicacies.
You can find the video clips of these places on my YouTube channel: youtube.com/@preciousexplor
AMSTERDAM
Continuing the city tours in the Netherlands, the next city to add to your bucket list is Amsterdam, the bustling capital of the Netherlands known for its lively culture.
One of the top attractions in Amsterdam is the Eye Film Museum, popular for its architecture. The museum is located across the river from Amsterdam’s central station. To get there, you will need to take a short ferry ride—which, by the way, it is completely free. Once inside, the eye film museum, you will find a vast collection of films, from early cinema to modern blockbusters. The museum hosts exhibitions, educational programmes and film screening.
Another activity to do in Amsterdam is visit the bloemenmarkt situated on boats stalls along the Singel Canal. This market is a colourful display of Dutch horticultural expertise. The Netherlands is one of the leading exporters of flowers, and at the Bloemenmarkt, you can see why. Tulips, roses, daffodils—you name it, they have it. The market is a good place to buy some bulps, locally fresh produce flowers or simply enjoy the colorful display of flowers.
An attraction site that should be on your itinerary is the Anne Frank House. If you are wondering who Anne Frank is I would tell you. Anne is popular for keeping a diary of her experiences when she and her family hid during world war 2 in this house. This museum is a reminder of the Holocaust. Our world needs peace.
Ok, I hope that you enjoyed the adventure with me. It is goodbye Amsterdam taking off from Schipol Airport. My heart is full of memories from this trip. Have you been to the Netherlands before? If so, what did you enjoy the most? If not, would you add it to your bucket list?
Looking forward to my next destination—where do you think it will be?