Welcome To The Netherlands!
Welcome to the Netherlands, a favourite among many! The Netherlands might be tiny, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to cool cities, epic views, and good vibes. Think colourful canals, funky architecture, buzzing bikes everywhere, and way too many reasons not to say YES to the Netherlands.
Although the Netherlands offers many amazing places, this blog will focus on the top four most popular destinations: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Leiden. Each has its own vibe and deserves a place on your travel bucket list. Ready for canals, cool neighbourhoods, and a lot of Instagram-worthy pics? Let’s go!
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Language & Currency In The Netherlands
Language: The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch, which is also the primary language used in government, education, and everyday communication. Most of the population also speaks English, a mandatory school subject, perfected by integrating with tourists.
Currency: The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (€), abbreviated as EUR. It became the official currency in 2002 when the Netherlands adopted the Euro as part of the European Union’s monetary integration.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam blends old-world charm with a fun, youthful energy. Its winding canals, tall narrow houses, and cobbled streets make it one of the most unique cities in Europe. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, it’s a place that feels both exciting and easy to explore!
You’ll find plenty to do in Amsterdam, from renting a bike and riding like a local to trying Dutch snacks like stroopwafels and fries with mayo. World-famous museums, cool street markets, and cosy parks are perfect for hanging out. Plus, Amsterdam is 420-friendly, and the nightlife, especially the red light district, mainly appeals to many curious explorers.
Stunning views of Amsterdam. Credit: Noppasinw (Adobe)
Best Places To Stay In Amsterdam
Amsterdam Centrum. The city centre is the heart of the city, where you’ll find major landmarks like Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the Red Light District. It’s the most touristy area and excellent for first-time visitors who want to be close to everything. Remember, it can be busy and more expensive than other neighbourhoods.
🩵 Recommends: The Hendrick’s Hotel offers a 4-star stay with upscale, stylish rooms and boujee vibes.
De Pijp. For a trendy and diverse location, De Pijp is a lively neighbourhood known for the famous Albert Cuyp Market, great food spots, and a younger crowd. It’s ideal if you enjoy a more laid-back, multicultural atmosphere with lots of local flavour. Plus, it’s close to the Museumplein and public transport.
🩵Recommends: Pestana Amsterdam Riverside offers a stunning 5-star stay with intricate designs and a cosy atmosphere.
Noord. Across the river from the city centre, Amsterdam-Noord is a creative, up-and-coming area with a cool industrial edge. You’ll find art spaces, modern architecture, and hotspots like the A’DAM Tower and NDSM Wharf. A quick ferry ride gets you back to central Amsterdam, making Noord a fun and alternative base for your stay.
🩵 Recommends: For a clean and comfortable stay, Bob W Amsterdam Noord is a gorgeous 4-star studio apartment with everything you need for an epic stay!
Jordaan. Once a working-class neighbourhood, Jordaan is now one of Amsterdam’s most charming and popular areas. It has narrow streets, cosy cafes, independent boutiques, and art galleries. Jordaan is perfect for travellers who want a quieter, local feel close to the city centre.
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Mercier offers a retro and elegant stay with fabulous rooms, friendly staff, and a cool interior (like velvet prints – my fav).
Top Attractions In Amsterdam
Best Excursions!
Rotterdam
Welcome to Rotterdam, the coolest city in the Netherlands you’ve (maybe) never heard of! Unlike Amsterdam’s more traditional vibe, Rotterdam is all about bold architecture, creativity, and modern energy. This city was almost completely rebuilt after World War II, so instead of old canals and narrow houses, you’ll find futuristic buildings, colourful street art, and super cool design everywhere you look.
But Rotterdam isn’t just a pretty face. It’s packed with awesome things to do, bike rides along the river, epic food markets (hello, stroopwafels!), rooftop bars, and even cube-shaped houses you can explore. Whether you’re into art, music, food, or just snapping cool photos for your socials, Rotterdam has something for you. This Dutch city is a must-visit on your travel bucket-list itinerary!
View of Oude Haven in Rotterdam from a balcony. Credit: Z-Jacobs (Adobe)
Best Places To Stay In Rotterdam
City Centre. The city centre is the beating heart of Rotterdam, perfect for first-time visitors. You’ll be steps away from major attractions like the Markthal, Cube Houses, and Lijnbaan shopping street. It’s lively, modern, and packed with restaurants, shops, and easy public transport.
🩵Recommends: Rotterdam Marriott Hotel offers a stunning 5-star stay with upscale rooms and friendly staff.
Delfshaven. A historic gem in an otherwise modern city, Delfshaven is full of charm with canals, old warehouses, and cosy cafes. It’s quieter than the city centre but still close by, offering a unique mix of history and local life. This location is ideal for travellers who love a picturesque, laid-back atmosphere.
🩵Recommends: For a unique stay, the SS Rotterdam by WestCord boasts cabin rooms on a ship by the harbour!
Kop Van Zuid. This trendy, up-and-coming waterfront district is known for its bold architecture and chic vibes. Home to the iconic Erasmus Bridge and Hotel New York, Kop Van Zuid is great for fans of modern design and upscale dining. It’s just across the river from the centre and easily reachable by metro or water taxi.
🩵Recommends: Room Mate Bruno Rotterdam is a vibrant 4-star hotel offering clean, beautiful rooms at reasonable rates.
Blijdorp. Located near the famous Rotterdam Zoo, Blijdorp is a peaceful, green neighbourhood perfect for families or anyone looking for a quieter stay. It’s residential but well-connected to the city by public transport. Plus, it has awesome parks and fewer touristy local spots.
🩵Recommends: Le Marin Boutique Hotel offers cheaper room rates and a comfortable stay.
If you want to take a solo trip but are unsure where to start, the Female Solo Travel Ebook covers all the essential info you need to ensure an epic solo adventure!
Top Attractions In Rotterdam
Best Excursions!
Utrecht
Take a trip to Utrecht, one of the most incredible hidden gems in the Netherlands! This city has everything you’d expect from a major Dutch destination: beautiful canals, charming old streets, and tons of bikes, but with a younger, more laid-back vibe. Whether you’re into funky vintage shops or medieval towers, Utrecht delivers without the massive tourist crowds of Amsterdam.
Utrecht is also a student city, buzzing with energy and creativity. You’ll find art on the walls, music in the air, and something always going on, day or night. Plus, getting around is super easy, and the city centre is compact, so you can walk or bike everywhere. If you’re looking for a fun, friendly, and seriously Instagram-worthy place to explore, Utrecht should definitely be on your list!
Traditional houses along a canal in Utrecht. Credit: Leonid Andronov (Adobe)
Best Places To Stay In Utrecht
Binnenstad (City Centre). The city centre is the historic heart of Utrecht, packed with charming canals, cosy cafes, shops, and the iconic Dom Tower. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to major sights, nightlife, and public transport. You’ll be in the middle of the action, with beautiful views and plenty to explore on foot.
🩵Recommends: Inntel Hotels Utrecht Centre is a 4-star boujee hotel with stunning rooms and upscale vibes.
Museumkwartier. This charming neighbourhood is located just south of the city centre and has culture and green spaces. It is quieter than the central area but within walking distance of all the main sights. Expect tree-lined streets, cute boutiques, and great access to museums like the Centraal Museum.
🩵Recommends: Conscious Hotel Museum Square offers a chic vibe, clean, cosy rooms, and friendly staff.
Wittevrouwen. A trendy and artsy district northeast of the centre, Wittevrouwen is known for its cosy cafes, local eateries, and creative vibe. It’s a favourite among students and young professionals. This is a great pick if you like staying in a more local, residential area while still being close to the action.
🩵Recommends: Hotel Mitland offers cool, quirky rooms, amazing spa services, and waterfront views.
Lombok. Just west of the centre, Lombok is a diverse and vibrant neighbourhood known for its international food scene and lively markets. It’s a fun, culturally rich area that gives you a taste of everyday Utrecht life. Plus, it’s only a 10-minute walk or bike ride to the centre.
🩵Recommends: Parc Broekhuizen offers a stunning 5-star stay with gorgeous spaces and a boutique vibe.
Top Attractions In Utrecht
Best Excursions!
– Utretch
Leiden
Leiden’s charming university city is like stepping into a postcard, with its winding canals, colourful houseboats, and centuries-old buildings. It’s the birthplace of Rembrandt, packed with cool museums, cosy cafes, and one of the oldest universities in Europe. Whether you’re into art or science or just want to chill by the water with a stroopwafel in hand, Leiden’s got you covered.
What makes Leiden super fun is how walkable and bike-friendly it is; you can explore the whole city without ever needing a car. From climbing the historic Burcht (a castle-like fortress) to hopping on a canal boat tour or checking out the quirky museums, there’s always something to discover. It’s like Amsterdam with just as much charm, but more laid-back, artsy, and with fewer crowds.
A view of the city dam and the old facades of houses at sunset in Leiden. Credit: Pillerss (Adobe)
Best Places To Stay In Leiden
Leiden City Centre. The city centre is the historic heart of Leiden, filled with beautiful canals, museums, shops, and restaurants. Staying here puts you within walking distance of major attractions like the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and the Burcht van Leiden. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to soak up the city’s charm and be in the middle of everything.
🩵Recommends: Intercity Hotel Leiden offers a gorgeous 5-star stay with modern vibes and comfortable rooms.
Stationsdistrict: Located around the main train station, this area is super convenient for travellers coming by rail or planning day trips to places like Amsterdam, The Hague, or Rotterdam. It’s a modern area with business hotels, shopping centres, and easy access to transport. Plus, it’s great for short stays or for exploring beyond Leiden.
🩵Recommends: Golden Tulip Leiden Centre offers a 4-star stay, perfect for a quick getaway or stopover.
Pieterswijk. For a quiet, picturesque neighbourhood, stay in Pieterswijk, which is known for its cobbled streets and proximity to Leiden University. It’s home to the beautiful Pieterskerk and lots of quaint architecture. This area is ideal for couples, students, or anyone looking for a peaceful stay with a touch of history.
🩵Recommends: Boutique Hotel Huy Van Leyden offers pretty, stylish rooms and top-notch service.
Morsdistrict. Just west of the centre, Morsdistrict is a more residential, local-feeling area within easy walking or biking distance to Leiden’s main sights. It’s less touristy and offers a glimpse into daily Dutch life, with nearby parks and family-friendly accommodations. It’s also a nice option if you’re looking for comfort and calm.
🩵Recommends: Van Der Valk Hotel offers spacious rooms and a relaxed environment for your getaway.
Top Attractions In Leiden
Best Excursions!
– Leiden
That’s A Wrap!
From iconic canals to cutting-edge architecture, the Netherlands offers something fun for everyone. Amsterdam has museums and vibrant neighbourhoods; Rotterdam has bold design, buzzing nightlife, and a fresh, creative spirit; Utrecht has big student energy and hidden gems around every corner; and Leiden is a peaceful yet culturally rich escape filled with picturesque streets and a strong sense of tradition.
Each city has its own personality, but together they showcase what the Netherlands offers: walkable beauty, welcoming locals, endless things to see and do, and great places to stay. So, where will you explore in this stunning destination?
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