Canals weave their way past gabled houses, flower markets dazzle with a riot of tulips, cosy cafes lure you in with the promise of perfect coffee and pastries. Amsterdam is a magical capital which packs in world-class art, culture and architecture – discover every corner with a canal or tram ride.
The Netherlands’ second city is a thriving port destination with a modern feel. Here you’ll find a thriving coffee culture, innovative art and design made manifest in some truly striking buildings, and a city of bold bridges that promises a warm welcome when you visit.
The Hague, Den Haag, is synonymous with politics. It’s also a pretty destination with a brilliant cultural scene, ambitious restaurants and a beach on the North Sea coast. While the handsome Het Paleis hosts a superb collection of pieces by MC Escher, and the Mauritshuis has Rembrandt rubbing shoulders with Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring.
Eindhoven’s story is indelibly linked with that of electronics company Philips, which was born in the town in 1891, transforming it into a major industrial city. The Philips Museum tells that tale, while the city itself is home to some remarkable creative industrial design. Drop by the Van Abbemuseum for a diverse collection, ranging from Kandinsky to Picasso.
Tilburg was a city built on wool, and that heritage is celebrated at the Textile Museum. Yet this is also a place that has embraced the future, reinventing itself as a vibrant arts hub – street fairs and carnivals dot the calendar – in a place that feels youthful and fun.
The oldest city in The Netherlands, Nijmegen is today a bustling university town set against a lovely medieval backdrop. The Waal River winds through the delightful centre, while the landscape around is a magnet for hikers – there’s even an annual festival dedicated to walkers.
Arnhem’s name will forever be linked with the battle that raged here during WW2 and many visitors come to see the landmarks and monuments that mark the event. The city is modern and fresh, rebuilt after the war and known for its fashion and textile industry, as well as a slew of parks and intriguing museums.
With a university that dates back to 1575 and with Rembrandt being its most celebrated son, Leiden is a quaint town with many claims to fame. The large student population keep the nightlife ticking, while picture-perfect 17th century houses line the canals. There are several world-class museums to lose yourself in too.
Stand in the revitalised Nieuwe Markt and you can tap into the energy that makes Groningen buzz. This is an old town, it’s university opened early in the 17th century, with a young soul. Climb the 251 steps to the top of the Martinitoren tower to enjoy a vista of this vibrant student town.
Close to Belgium, Maastricht stands as a symbol of European cooperation – it’s here that the treaty promising greater links between EU nations was signed in 1992. It feels notably different to most Dutch cities, with its own culture, attitude and language – as well as Roman history and outstanding restaurants.
