Discover the Netherlands: 12 Must-Visit Destinations for an Unforgettable Journey

The Netherlands is chock-full of quaint cities, historical sites, and beautiful vistas. Amongst the must-visit places to get the complete Dutch feel are:

1. Amsterdam

The Rijksmuseum is a world-class museum hosting masterpieces of Dutch art, including Rembrandt and Vermeer.

The Van Gogh Museum A museum dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, with the largest collection of his art.

Anne Frank House: A poignant historical site where Anne Frank wrote her diary during WWII.

Canal District: Known for its repute canals, excellent for boat cruises and a marvelous backdrop for the city.

2. Zaanse Schans

This outdoor museum is famous for its remaining windmills, Dutch houses, demonstrations of clog-making, and cheese-making. The place reveals life during the 18th and 19th centuries in Netherlands.

3. Keukenhof Gardens

Open during spring, Keukenhof is one of the world's largest flower gardens. The colorful display of tulips and other flowers makes Keukenhof one of the world's most famous destinations for millions of people.

4. Rotterdam

Markthal: The most unique architecture and an indoor marketplace with food from every corner of the world.

Cube Houses: Strange, futuristic houses by Piet Blom.

Erasmus Bridge: This is a relatively recent architectural marvel that connects north and south Rotterdam.

Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum: It houses a good collections of art, which stretches from Dutch Old Masters to contemporary pieces.

5. The Hague (Den Haag)

It houses some of the works, for example, Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt paintings.

Binnenhof: The heart of politics in the Netherlands with nice historical buildings and view on the lake.

It's the seat of the International Court of Justice and a centerpiece of international diplomacy.

Scheveningen Beach: Lively seaside resort with lots of attractions just outside The Hague, worth a day by the beach.

6. Utrecht

Dom Tower: Climb the tallest church tower in the Netherlands for panoramic views of the city.

Canal District: Unique because it has wharf cellars; canals are lined with cafes and shops that make this a good place for a slow amble.

7. Giethoorn

It is also called the "Venice of the North." This is a quiet village without roads; the locals and visitors go through it in small boats on lovely canals. It is a magical retreat into nature, full of thatched cottages and little wooden bridges.

8. Delft

Royal Delft Factory: Famous for its iconic blue-and-white pottery, you can visit the factory to see the creation process.

New Church: Beautiful Gothický church, with the grave of William of Orange, father of the Dutch nation.

The Canals of Delft: a smaller, quieter version of Amsterdam in which to stroll along the water.

9. Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, consists of 19 miraculously well-preserved 18th-century windmills. It is an ideal location to learn about the Dutch water management system and it's really beautiful.

10. Haarlem

Frans Hals Museum Dedicated to the works of the world-famous Dutch Golden Age portrait painter.

Grote Markt: A historic town marketplace, with some exquisite medieval structures such as the Grote Kerk, locally known as the St. Bavokerk.

It is the oldest museum in the country, starting with the collection of art, fossils, and scientific instruments.

11. Maastricht

Vrijthof Square is a bustling square where most festivals take place, and historical landmarks are located, including the Basilica of St. Servatius.

St. Pietersberg Caves: A network of limestone caves used for shelter during wars, offering guided tours.

Maastricht's influence, the Dutch Belgian, and German make it so unique in its charm.

12. Leiden

Leiden University: The country’s oldest university, surrounded by beautiful old buildings and canals.

National Museum of Antiquities: Full of treasure from old Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

Hortus Botanicus: It is the oldest botanical garden in the world, with collections of exotic plants.