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Netherlands

Things to do in the Netherlands

With so many things to see and do in the Netherlands, it is a small country with loads of character. The Netherlands has far more to offer than its famous windmills and tulips, although these are both amazing sights to see. There are even more places in the Netherlands that you should visit.

There are loads of places to visit in the Netherlands regardless of what you love to do while you are on holiday. With a whole range of museums and galleries to explore, architecture to admire, and cafes to sit and unwind in, you will be spoilt for choice when deciding what to do during your time in this fascinating destination.

Our overnight crossings from Hull to Rotterdam gives you the chance to start your holiday the minute you step on board, so why not allow yourself to be inspired by some of these places to visit in the Netherlands and come to join us for an adventure? Plus, you can upgrade to our Standard Flexi or Fully Flexi ticket types for some extra peace of mind when you’re planning your trip to the Netherlands.

If you want a great weekend trip to the Netherlandsso you can see all the cool places to go in the Netherlands then you should also consider one of our mini-cruises! P&O offer two mini-cruise packages: our Hull to Rotterdam mini-cruise and our Amsterdam mini-cruise.

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Dutch Windmills in the Netherlands
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Day trip
From: Hull
To: Rotterdam
 
 
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Best places to go in the Netherlands

Small Cities in the Netherlands

Although Rotterdam and Amsterdam are two of the most popular places to visit in the Netherlands, there are many smaller destinations well worth exploring.

Located just half an hour from Rotterdam port, The Hague is a political powerhouse with a distinct baroque design and continental character. It’s a great option if you’d like to experience something different while discovering more things to do in the Netherlands.

Between Rotterdam and The Hague lies Delft, a charming city known for its canals, historic buildings and vibrant open-air markets. Visitors can enjoy boat trips past some of the prettiest places to visit in the Netherlands, as well as lively markets held on Thursdays and Sundays.

Dordrecht, the oldest city in Holland, is another destination just a half-hour drive from Rotterdam. With fairytale-style buildings, riverside views and architecture dating back to 1175, it’s one of the most atmospheric places to visit in the Netherlands.

The Hague in the Netherlands

Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam

Photo: Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam by Kees Streefkerk

Popular places in the Netherlands - Rotterdam

Arriving by ferry places you directly in the port of Rotterdam, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the country. For a cool city experience, don’t miss the Erasmus Bridge, an impressive feat of modern engineering, or take a trip up the Euromast lookout tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the city and beyond on clear days.

Another popular option when exploring things to do in the Netherlands is learning about Rotterdam’s maritime history or simply wandering through the city to admire its bold, modern architecture, which sets it apart from other Dutch cities.

What to explore in Amsterdam?

Driving from Rotterdam to Amsterdam takes around an hour, and once you arrive you can lose yourself among interlocking canals and stunning 17th-century houses. As one of the most popular places to visit in the Netherlands, Amsterdam offers a mix of lively and cultural experiences all year round.

To explore some of the best Netherlands sightseeing spots, you can wander on foot or hire a bike and explore like a local. Popular Amsterdam tourist attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, home to many of the artist’s most celebrated works, and the Anne Frank House, where you can learn about Anne Frank’s life and diary.

Canal houses in Amsterdam

Wildlife at Hoge Valuwe National Park

Prettiest Places in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is also an excellent destination for nature lovers. The country is home to around twenty national parks, including forests, dunes, creek valleys and lakes, spread across the landscape. With so many beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands, it’s easy to enjoy a slower pace of travel.

Spending time in the national parks gives you the chance to spot wildlife such as red deer, otters, seals and a wide range of bird species. Many parks also offer activities including walking tours, cycling routes and horse riding. These areas are ideal for dog walks too, and with dog-friendly cabins available, travelling with pets is made much easier. Find out more dog-friendly things to do in the Netherlands.


At P&O Ferries, we make it easier to travel with bicycles so you can explore even more Netherlands sightseeing spots and enjoy the best things to do in the Netherlands at your own pace.

There are loads of places to visit in the Netherlands regardless of what you love to do while you are on holiday

Bikes lining the streets of Amsterdam in the Netherlands
De Haar Castle in Utrecht, Netherlands
Hoge Veluwe National Park
Delft Square in the Netherlands
Rotterdam skyline in the Netherlands
Bikes lining the streets of Amsterdam in the Netherlands
De Haar Castle in Utrecht, Netherlands
Hoge Veluwe National Park
Delft Square in the Netherlands
Rotterdam skyline in the Netherlands

Top 10 things to do in the Netherlands

As well as the most popular places to visit in the Netherlands, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Rotterdam itself. Our list below showcases 10 top things to do in and around the Netherlands, suitable for all the family.

1. Visit the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
2. Explore the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.
3. Take a canal cruise in Amsterdam.
4. Visit Keukenhof Gardens during tulip season.
5. Explore the historic Zaanse Schans windmill village.
6. Tour the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam.
7. Visit the Giethoorn Village, known as the "Venice of the North."
8. See the Delftware pottery in Delft.
9. Discover Kinderdijk’s windmills.
10. Relax at the Beaches of Zandvoort or Scheveningen.

FAQs:

1. What is the best place to visit in the Netherlands?

Arguably the best place and most popular place to visit in the Netherlands is Amsterdam. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and vibrant modern life. You can explore its iconic canals, visit world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and see landmarks such as the Anne Frank House. With only an hour drive from our Rotterdam port catching the ferry to Holland couldn’t be easier. Book your Hull to Rotterdam ferry now.

2. What are some fun things to do in the Netherlands?

There are many fun things to do in the Netherlands. You can take a canal cruise in Amsterdam for a unique view of the city, or bike through the countryside and tulip fields. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens during tulip season, explore the windmills at Kinderdijk, and try cheese tasting in Gouda. For a quirky experience, visit Giethoorn, a village with no roads, where you can boat through its canals. Or the thrill seekers, don’t miss Efteling, a magical theme park, or visit Amsterdam's A’DAM Lookout for stunning views and the thrilling "Over the Edge" swing.

3. What are the best non touristy things to do in the Netherlands?

If you are looking for more non-touristy things to do in the Netherlands then do not worry as you can enjoy peaceful Hoge Veluwe National Park or cycle through the quiet Friesland region. Why not visit the charming, less crowded cities of Leiden and Haarlem, or enjoy the tranquil Terschelling Island. There are plenty of non-touristy things to do in the Netherlands to ensure you have a relaxing and perfect stay away from the hustle and bustle of tourist attractions. Treat yourself and start relaxing as soon as you get onboard by booking our Club Stateroom Cabin to enjoy the best night sleep on our overnight crossing.

4. Where are the best child friendly places in the Netherlands?

There are many child friendly places in the Netherlands to explore to have the perfect family holiday there. For example, Efteling is a magical theme park with fairy-tale attractions and rides suitable for all ages. NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam provides interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational for children. Keukenhof Gardens is perfect for a colourful outdoor experience during spring. Madurodam in The Hague features miniature versions of Dutch landmarks. Additionally, Giethoorn is a peaceful village perfect for family boat trips. There is plenty to do with kids in the Netherlands just like onboard our Hull to Rotterdam ferry, here with our kid’s entertainment no child will ever be bored.

With our overnight sailings from Hull to Rotterdam you can be in the Netherlands shortly after you wake up, and whether you are travelling for a short break or on a Mini Cruise you will be able to reach many of these places to visit in the Netherlands either via coach transfer or in your own car.

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