Ah, the Netherlands—land of tulips, windmills, and more bikes than people. Whether you’re here for the art, the history, the cheese (yes, please), or just to pedal your way through postcard-perfect landscapes, this country delivers on every level. When I first planned my trip, I wasn’t sure how much I could squeeze into a budget, but trust me, the Netherlands is a treasure trove for thrifty travelers.
From bustling cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam to the serene beauty of Kinderdijk and Keukenhof, this guide covers the best places to visit without breaking the bank. And hey, you’ll still have enough euros left for all the stroopwafels your heart desires. So grab your clogs (or just some comfy sneakers), and let’s dive into the top 10 must-visit spots in the Netherlands!
1 – Amsterdam
Amsterdam is everything you’ve ever heard about and more—it’s beautiful, lively, and full of surprises. Start by strolling along the canals; I dare you not to fall in love with their charm. The Anne Frank House is an emotional must-visit, and if you’re into art, the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum will blow your mind. For a more laid-back experience, grab a bike and pedal through Vondelpark or get lost in the quirky streets of Jordaan.
And let’s not forget food—stroopwafels are life-changing. Don’t leave without snapping a picture by the iconic « I amsterdam » letters (well, wherever they’ve moved them to this time). Amsterdam’s diversity in attractions and affordability make it perfect for budget travelers.
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2 – Rotterdam
Rotterdam is not your typical Dutch city—it’s modern, edgy, and all about innovation. The architecture here is wild, from the Cube Houses to the futuristic Markthal, which doubles as a foodie’s paradise. Climb the Euromast for panoramic views, or take a water taxi for a thrilling (and cheap!) ride through the city’s harbor.
This city knows how to mix old and new, with spots like Delfshaven offering a taste of history amidst the sleek skyline. Bonus: Rotterdam is perfect for budget travel, with free art exhibitions and affordable public transport. Trust me, you’ll leave with more Instagram-worthy photos than you can handle.
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3 – Zaanse Schans
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing windmills up close, Zaanse Schans is the place to be. It’s like stepping into a postcard. The windmills here are fully functional, and some even let you go inside to see how they work. There’s also a cheese farm where you can taste (and buy) delicious Dutch cheeses—yes, I’m talking Gouda heaven.
The best part? It’s a quick day trip from Amsterdam, and many parts of Zaanse Schans are free to explore. Bring your camera because this place is ridiculously photogenic. Walking along the river with the windmills in the background feels like stepping back in time.
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4 – Utrecht
Utrecht is the Netherlands’ hidden gem. Imagine Amsterdam but smaller, quieter, and just as beautiful. The canals here have unique sunken wharves that are now lined with cafes. Grab a seat by the water, sip on some coffee, and just soak it all in.
If you’re into history, climb the Dom Tower for an unbeatable view of the city. Utrecht’s charm lies in its relaxed vibe—it’s perfect for wandering without a plan. Pro tip: Rent a kayak and explore the canals from the water. It’s cheap and way more fun than a traditional canal boat tour.
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5 – Keukenhof
If you’re in the Netherlands during spring, you HAVE to visit Keukenhof. It’s tulip central, and no, the hype is not overrated. The gardens are massive, with over seven million flowers in bloom. It’s a feast for your eyes and your camera roll.
Get there early to avoid crowds and take your time wandering through the endless rows of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Keukenhof is only open for a few weeks each year, so plan ahead. Even if flowers aren’t usually your thing, this place will convert you.
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6 – Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk is like Zaanse Schans’ quieter cousin but just as magical. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 19 traditional windmills lined up along canals. You can bike, walk, or take a boat ride to explore the area.
The visitor center offers a short film explaining how these windmills have kept the Netherlands dry for centuries—it’s fascinating and free! Kinderdijk is peaceful, picturesque, and totally worth the trip. It’s also super affordable, especially if you’re into self-guided tours.
7 – Haarlem
Haarlem is often overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it’s just as charming and way less crowded. Start your visit in Grote Markt, the city’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings and cute cafes. The Frans Hals Museum is a must for art lovers, and don’t skip the St. Bavo Church, where Mozart once played the organ.
If you’re visiting in spring, Haarlem is a great base for exploring nearby tulip fields. It’s also just a quick train ride from Amsterdam, making it an easy day trip.
Pro tip: Try the local beer at Jopenkerk, a brewery set in a former church.
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8 – Maastricht
Maastricht feels like it belongs in a different country. It’s tucked down in the southern part of the Netherlands and has a more European vibe. Think cobblestone streets, stunning churches, and lively squares. Vrijthof Square is the heart of the city, perfect for people-watching over a coffee or beer.
Don’t miss the underground caves at St. Pietersberg, which are full of history and perfect for a unique adventure. Maastricht is a foodie’s dream, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy street food.
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9 – Zaandam
Zaandam is where modern design meets Dutch history. The city is best known for its quirky Inntel Hotel, which looks like a stack of colorful Dutch houses. Beyond that, there’s the Czaar Peter House, one of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands.
Zaandam is a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Zaanse Schans or the canals of Amsterdam. It’s small, charming, and totally walkable, so you can see a lot without spending a fortune.
10 – The Hague
The Hague is where politics and beach vibes collide. Start your visit at the Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics, and then wander over to the Mauritshuis to see Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring.
If you’re into beaches, Scheveningen is just a tram ride away and has everything from sandy shores to a Ferris wheel. The Hague is also home to the Peace Palace, which is as impressive as it sounds. Bonus: It’s a lot cheaper to stay here than in Amsterdam, and it’s just as packed with things to do.
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There you have it—10 incredible places that prove the Netherlands is more than just tulips and windmills (although, let’s be real, those are pretty great too). Each destination has its own vibe, from the artsy energy of Amsterdam to the tranquil charm of Kinderdijk. Whether you’re cycling through Utrecht’s canals or snapping pictures of Zaanse Schans’ iconic windmills, there’s always something new to discover.
The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to experience it all. The Netherlands is budget-travel-friendly and packed with unforgettable experiences. So, book that ticket, pack light, and get ready for an adventure filled with beauty, culture, and maybe a little too much cheese (no judgment). Safe travels!
