Over recent years the Netherlands has gained great popularity as a country teeming with picturesque castles, charming canals, fragrant fields blossoming with colourful flowers, and interesting and remarkably beautiful cities rich in art and culture. Thousands of tourists flock to visit this delightful country each year in order to explore the idyllic surroundings and exciting lifestyle. With this in mind, here is a quick guide to some of the top places to see in the Netherlands.

1. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the country’s capital and no doubt one of the prettiest cites in the Netherlands. If you are currently looking to book your visit, you can take a look at this page where you will find dozen of hotels in Amsterdam. Highlights in this magical destination include the splendid Grachtengordel, in the heart of the city, the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House and of course the city’s celebrated traditional coffee shops.

2. The Keukenhof Gardens

These splendid floral gardens, situated between Amsterdam and The Hague, are considered to be the largest in the world. They are home to a magnificent collection of flowers including the region’s famed tulips in all of their vibrant splendour. Visitors are able to wander these splendid gardens at their leisure (boat trips and bicycle tours are also available), before dining at the elegant on site restaurant.

3. Rotterdam

This vibrant city has a great deal to offer its many visitors. Rotterdam is celebrated worldwide for its contemporary architecture, eclectic feel, suggestive waterside setting, and lively culture. Visitors will be able to shop and dine in style in this incredibly dynamic and popular city considered by many to rival the capital Amsterdam.

4. Waddanzee Reserve

This fabulous nature reserve is home to a staggering number of migratory birds, splendid seal colonies and stunning shoals of fish.  Not only is this the largest reserve in the Netherlands, but Waddanzee is also believed to be one of the world’s greatest wetland ecosystems. This natural paradise is located in the beautiful province of Groningen and is best visited in the morning before the tide comes in.

5. The Hague

Situated on the coast The Hague is celebrated for its sophisticated mix of sandy beaches, upmarket neighbourhoods, phenomenal architecture, fine art museums and luxurious shopping districts. Visitors will also be able to enjoy fabulous cuisine in the city’s many top eating establishments.

6. The Old Windmills of Kinderdijk

These picturesque windmills perfectly compliment the stunning Dutch landscape that surrounds them. Although the Netherlands is brimming with charming examples the Windmills of Kinderdijk, all nineteen of them, date back to 1740 and happen to be located in some of the country’s most beautiful countryside.

There is so much to see and do in the Netherlands that this guide can only be considered a starting point as you plan your trip to this delightful destination. Please remember to plan your time well in order to make the most out of what will almost certainly be an unforgettable European break.

Editor’s note: Emily Jones has generously provided this article and a donation in order to help continue spreading the voice of women around the world. We are proud of the content we publish and stand by it! Click here to read our full disclosure statement.