This European Country Has More Bikes Than People — and Its Canals and Tulip Fields Stretch for Miles

The famous landmarks in the Netherlands, such as the Kinderdijk Windmills and the Anne Frank House, tell the story of a country shaped by history, resilience, and innovation. With over 20 million tourists visiting annually, Holland’s attractions range from medieval castles and centuries-old canals to cutting-edge architecture.

Stand beneath Kinderdijk’s towering windmills, still functioning after 200 years, or walk through the sobering halls of the Anne Frank House. These are windows into the Netherlands’ fascinating past and culture.

To curate this list, we combined first-hand experiences with insights from traveler reviews, historical significance, and local recommendations to ensure each landmark offers something unique. Our goal was to highlight iconic sites and hidden gems.

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Anne Frank House, Amsterdam

Anne Frank House, in the Dutch capital, is arguably the most historically famous site in the Netherlands. This world-famous museum was the former house of Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Anne Frank was a German-born Jewish girl who documented her life in hiding during Nazi persecution. 

In her diary, she detailed everyday life for her family, who were forced to hide in a secret annex in the house. At the Anne Frank House, which is now a museum, you can learn everything there is to know about Anne Frank and explore the secret annex Anne lived in for more than two years during World War II. The museum also houses Anne Frank’s original diary. 

Travel Tips

• Book tickets early: The Anne Frank House tickets sell out quickly, so buy them at least six weeks in advance. They are released every Tuesday at 10 AM Amsterdam time.
• Arrive early: Even with a timed ticket, it’s best to arrive 15-30 minutes early to avoid long waits and be among the first to enter when your time arrives.

Read also: Netherlands Travel Guide

The Kinderdijk Windmills, Kinderdijk

The Kinderdijk Windmills in Kinderdijk, South Holland, is one of the Netherlands’ top UNESCO sites for windmills. Built around 1740, there are 19 magnificent Dutch windmills to see and some to even visit.

The windmills, made from red brick and up to 128 feet (39 meters) tall, are a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because they symbolize Dutch water management. They were initially constructed as part of an extensive water management system to prevent flooding. Today, you can visit some of the windmills and see what life was like for their inhabitants. 

Vibrant tulips surround the Kinderdijk Windmills in the spring, so don’t forget to bring a camera. The flower-laden meadows, beautiful windmills, and picturesque waterways are perfect for Instagram.

Travel Tips

• Use the Waterbus: Take the Waterbus from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk; it’s a fun way to arrive and lets you bring your bike.
• Visit on weekdays or early mornings: To avoid large crowds, plan your visit during the week or early in the day when it’s less busy.

Read more: Kinderdijk

De Gooyer, Amsterdam

De Gooyer, Amsterdam, is another famous windmill in the Netherlands. Located between Funenkade and Zeeburgerstraat, it’s the tallest wooden mill in the country at 87.3 feet (26.6 meters) and dates back to the 16th century. 

However, it was moved to its current location in 1814. Interestingly, it’s one of the few remaining windmills constructed primarily in wooden style. Registered as a National Monument, De Gooyer is another place you want to visit with your camera. 

The windmill itself is a spectacular sight, but its surroundings are equally beautiful. One of the best windmill views is from one of Amsterdam’s boat tours.

Travel Tips

• Photography tip: De Gooyer Windmill looks especially beautiful at sunset. It’s a perfect time to take pictures.
• Enjoy a drink at Brouwerij ‘t IJ: Relax at the nearby brewery, where you can taste local beers with the windmill as your backdrop.

Read also: Europe’s Most Beautiful Cities

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

De Hoge Veluwe National Park is located in the Central Netherlands. This breathtaking national park offers over 22 square miles (55 square kilometers) of scenic natural beauty to explore. Visitors can expect to find heathlands, woodlands, dunes, and various wildlife species. 

A popular hiking destination, De Hoge Veluwe National Park offers an insight into the more natural side of the Netherlands. As you hike through the park, look for foxes, wild boar, and roe deer. Besides hiking, cycling is also popular in De Hoge Veluwe National Park, so consider bringing your bicycle. 

De Hoge Veluwe National Park is approximately a one-hour drive from Amsterdam.

Travel Tips

• Use the free white bikes: De Hoge Veluwe National Park offers visitors over 1,800 free white bikes. Grab one at the entrance to explore the park’s 40 kilometers of cycling paths.
• Go early for wildlife spotting: The best time to see animals like deer and wild boars is early in the morning or late in the evening.

Read also: European Cities for Food Lovers

Markermeer Lake

Markermeer Lake, between North Holland and Flevoland, is another famous natural wonder in the Netherlands. Like De Hoge Veluwe National Park, it’s best known for its natural beauty. Markermeer Lake was once a saltwater inlet of the North Sea.

However, different channeling of other bodies of water caused the lake to become a freshwater lake. The lake features five artificial islands known as Maker Wadden, a popular summer spot, and a protected nature reserve. These islands have sandy shorelines and plenty of space for visitors to explore, watch wildlife, and relax. 

You can easily reach Markermeer Lake via one of the small towns nearby, such as Volendam and Lelystad. Alternatively, Amsterdam is approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) away.

Travel Tips

• Try sailing or windsurfing: Markermeer Lake is great for sailing and windsurfing. Rent equipment or join a lesson.
• Explore nearby towns: After enjoying the lake, visit historic towns like Edam, Volendam, or Marken.

Read also: Europe’s Most Instagrammable Spots

Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse

Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, commonly called the “Garden of Europe,” is one of the world’s largest flower gardens. The park spans over 79 acres (32 hectares) and contains approximately seven million flowers. 

The seven million flower bulbs on display in the gardens are planted yearly. The gardens are divided into several smaller areas, with over 100 growers allowed to create vibrant displays and promote their businesses. The best way to experience the gardens is to get yourself lost.

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Enjoy the bright colors, fragrant smells, and dazzling flower displays as you walk around. Go as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

Travel Tips

• Visit during the week: To avoid large crowds, plan your visit to Keukenhof Gardens on a weekday, preferably early in the morning.
• Buy tickets in advance: Purchase your entrance tickets online before your visit to skip long lines and ensure you get in without hassle.

Read more: Keukenhof

Mauritshuis, Den Haag

Mauritshuis is one of the most famous landmarks in Den Haag, also known as the Hague. It is renowned for several reasons. For starters, it’s one of the most historic buildings in the city. It was built in the 17th century as a private residence for Count Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen.

Secondly, it’s one of the most important museums in the Netherlands, and it has world-class artwork. It houses the Royal Cabinet of Paintings, which contains over 850 exhibits. 

The most famous piece of artwork on display in Mauritshuis is Vermeer’s “Girl With The Pearl Earring.” You can also see many works by Rembrandt.

Travel Tips

• Book your tickets online: To avoid long lines, book your tickets and time slot in advance.
• Visit during quieter hours: Visit after 3 PM when the museum is less crowded.

Read also: Europe’s Natural Wonders

Inntel Hotel, Zaandam

The Inntel Hotel in Zaandam is arguably the most unique attraction in the Netherlands. This otherworldly hotel will leave you awestruck and maybe even slightly confused. Sitting in a scenic canalside location in central Zaandam, this quirky structure has a facade comprising 70 individual Zaan homes.

What makes the hotel even more spectacular is how the homes are different shapes, sizes, and colors. Honestly, you won’t quite believe what you’re looking at. The fact you can stay overnight in the hotel makes the situation even more extraordinary. 

Better yet, this isn’t the only oddly shaped site in Zaandam. Across the city, you’ll find many oddly shaped and vibrant buildings, so don’t look away for a second.

Travel Tips

• Explore nearby attractions: Take advantage of the hotel’s location and visit the Zaanse Schans windmills and the Zaans Museum, just a short train ride away.
• Stay at the hotel: Relax at the swimming pool and sauna.

Read also: Unique Spots for Your European Travel

De Haar Castle, Utrecht

De Haar Castle in Utrecht is one of my favorite places in the Netherlands. The largest castle in the Netherlands, this magical structure belongs in a Disney movie or a film about Dracula. The Castle was initially built in the 12th century, but it owes its current form to a rebuild in the 19th century. 

It features a dramatic neo-Gothic style, multiple towers, a moat, and lush gardens. Better yet, it’s surrounded by the picturesque Dutch countryside. Meanwhile, the castle’s interior consists of grand halls, luxurious bedrooms, elegantly decorated rooms, and a gorgeous library. 

On a guided tour, you can learn more about De Haar Castle and its fascinating history. 

Travel Tips

• Arrive early to explore the gardens: Get to De Haar Castle by 9 AM to enjoy the gardens before the castle opens at 11 AM.
• Consider biking or taking public transport: The castle is about 13 kilometers from Utrecht, which can be a fun bike ride or an easy train and bus trip.

Read also: Europe’s Stunning Scenery

The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most famous tourist attractions. It was founded in 1798 and is the national museum of the Netherlands. It’s dedicated to Dutch history and arts. 

Located at Museum Square, the Rijksmuseum houses over 8,000 objects, taking visitors through thousands of years of history. Inside, you’ll find many art galleries, an atrium, a library, and artifacts from around the world. The museum’s interior impresses visitors, too.

The Rijksmuseum itself is a work of art. Its facade features tall spires, intricately carved sculptures, and colorful stained-glass windows. It also has lush gardens brimming with bright colors and delightful smells. Sounds great, right?

Travel Tips

• Visit early in the morning: Arrive right when the museum opens at 9 AM to avoid large crowds.
• Buy tickets online: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Read also: Iconic European Landmarks

Dom Tower, Utrecht

The Dom Tower in Utecht is one of the tallest landmarks in the Netherlands. At 368.5 feet (112.32 meters), it’s the tallest church tower in the country. Utrecht is a medieval city with a 2,000-plus-year history. 

The iconic Dom Tower is the centerpiece of the city’s historic center. Construction began in 1321, but it wasn’t completed until 1382. Initially, the tower was part of St. Martin’s Cathedral, but damage caused by a tornado separated the two in 1674. 

They’ve not been reconnected since. Visitors can climb the medieval tower and admire the views over the city. However, there are 465 steps to climb first. Luckily, there is also an elevator.

Travel Tips

• Book a guided tour in advance: You can only climb the Dom Tower with a guide, so reserve your spot online to secure your visit.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Since you’ll be climbing 465 steps to the top, wear sturdy shoes to make the ascent easier and more enjoyable.

Read also: Europe’s Hidden Gems

Zaanse Schans, Zaandam

Zaanse Schans is a famous Dutch site in the lush countryside surrounding Zaandam. It was one of the first industrial areas in Western Europe and once featured over 1,000 windmills. 

However, now, there are only 13 windmills remaining. These windmills provide an excellent insight into the Netherland’s cultural heritage. They are also a joy to take photographs of.

Inside the windmills, you can learn about the area’s history and find out how the windmills operated. Zaanse Schans is also home to several antique shops, a Dutch clogs shop and museum, and a cheese farm. What’s not to like?

A lovely way to experience Zaanse Schans is by bicycle. You can reach it in an hour from Amsterdam.

Travel Tips

• Check the wind conditions: The windmills are most active when it’s windy, so check the weather to see them in action.
• Get a Zaanse Schans Card: This card can save you money when you visit several sites, like museums and a cheese factory.

Read also: European Cities You Can’t Miss

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