Netherlands Travel Guide

– A Completed Journey Through Europe’s Scenic Lowlands

The Netherlands, often referred to as Holland, is one of Europe’s most culturally vibrant and visually captivating countries. Known for its tulip fields, windmills, canals, bicycles, art museums, and modern urban innovation, the Netherlands brings together tradition and contemporary charm in perfect harmony. From the historic canals of Amsterdam to the charming windmills of Zaanse Schans, the artistic brilliance of Van Gogh, the royal palaces of The Hague, the modern architecture of Rotterdam, and the peaceful landscapes of Giethoorn, every part of the Netherlands offers a unique travel experience.

This comprehensive travel guide provides a detailed, research-based overview of the Netherlands, covering major attractions, distances, transportation systems, travel routes from India, visa procedures, accommodation categories, and the best time to explore this extraordinary country.

Overview of the Netherlands

The Netherlands is located in Northwestern Europe, bordered by Germany and Belgium, with a long coastline along the North Sea. Much of the country lies below sea level, which has led to the development of world-famous dykes, canals, and advanced water-management systems.

The Netherlands is divided into 12 provinces, but the most notable regions for travellers include:

• North Holland – Amsterdam, Haarlem, Zaanse Schans
• South Holland – Rotterdam, The Hague, Leiden, Delft
• Utrecht – Medieval charm and canals
• Gelderland – National parks and countryside
• Overijssel – Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North”

The Netherlands is exceptionally safe, clean, organised, and easy to navigate, making it one of the best countries for both solo travellers and families.

Major Attractions in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers a delightful combination of cityscapes, rural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern innovation. Below are the essential destinations and highlights every traveller should explore.

1. Amsterdam – The Cultural and Historical Capital

Amsterdam is the heart of the Netherlands—famous for its canals, museums, royal heritage, nightlife, markets, and international atmosphere. It is one of Europe’s most visited destinations.

Main Attractions:

• Amsterdam Canal Belt – UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Rijksmuseum – Dutch national museum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House
• Dam Square
• Heineken Experience
• Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt)

Distances:

• Amsterdam to Rotterdam – 78 km
• Amsterdam to The Hague – 65 km
• Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans – 19 km

2. Zaanse Schans – Traditional Dutch Windmill Village

Zaanse Schans is a picturesque open-air museum showcasing historic windmills, wooden houses, and traditional Dutch crafts.

Main Attractions:

• Working windmills producing spices, oil, and paint
• Traditional Dutch wooden shoe (clog) factories
• Dutch cheese tasting experiences
• Waterfront viewpoints

Distance:

• Zaanse Schans to Amsterdam – 19 km

3. Rotterdam – The Modern Face of the Netherlands

Rotterdam is known for futuristic architecture, Europe’s largest port, and world-class culinary and cultural experiences.

Main Attractions:

• Cubic Houses (Kubuswoningen)
• Erasmus Bridge
• Markthal Rotterdam
• Maritime Museum
• Port of Rotterdam cruise

Distance:

• Rotterdam to The Hague – 26 km
• Rotterdam to Amsterdam – 78 km

4. The Hague (Den Haag) – Seat of the Dutch Government

The Hague is a city of refined architecture, embassies, royal palaces, international courts, and peaceful beaches.

Main Attractions:

• Peace Palace (International Court of Justice)
• Mauritshuis Museum – Home of “Girl with a Pearl Earring”
• Scheveningen Beach
• Binnenhof – Dutch Parliament

Distance:

• The Hague to Amsterdam – 65 km
• The Hague to Rotterdam – 26 km

5. Giethoorn – The Fairytale Water Village

Giethoorn is known for its canals, traditional thatched cottages, and peaceful ambiance. The village has almost no roads, and boats serve as the main form of transport.

Main Attractions:

• Boat tours through the canal system
• Wooden bridges and picturesque cottages
• Waterfront cafés and gardens

Distance:

• Giethoorn to Amsterdam – 121 km

6. Keukenhof Gardens – World-Famous Tulip Paradise

Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, open only during spring. Millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bloom in stunning displays.

Distances:

• Keukenhof to Amsterdam – 39 km
• Keukenhof to The Hague – 38 km

How to Reach the Netherlands from India

The Netherlands is easily accessible from major Indian cities. The main gateway is:

• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) – One of the best-connected airports in Europe.

From Kolkata

• Kolkata → Delhi → Amsterdam
• Kolkata → Mumbai → Amsterdam
• Kolkata → Dubai / Doha / Istanbul → Amsterdam
• Kolkata → Paris / Frankfurt → Amsterdam (short connecting flight or train)

From Delhi

• Direct Flight: Delhi → Amsterdam (KLM Royal Dutch Airlines)
• Delhi → Dubai / Doha → Amsterdam
• Delhi → Frankfurt / Paris → Amsterdam

Average flight duration: 8–10 hours (direct), 11–14 hours (with layovers).

Netherlands Visa Guide for Indian Travellers

As part of the Schengen Area, the Netherlands requires Indian travellers to obtain a Schengen Short-Stay Tourist Visa (Category C).

Documents Required

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Schengen visa application form
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Round-trip flight reservation
• Hotel or accommodation proof
• Travel medical insurance (coverage of minimum 30,000 EUR)
• Employment/Business proof
• 6-month bank statements
• Income tax return documents
• Detailed travel itinerary

Where to Apply – Netherlands Visa Office (VFS Global)

Netherlands Visa Application Centre – New Delhi
VFS Global Netherlands Visa Centre, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi

Other VFS locations: Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Pune, Chandigarh.

Processing Time

• Standard time: 10–15 working days
• Peak season: up to 30 days

Transportation System in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has one of the world’s most advanced and efficient transportation systems. Trains, trams, metros, ferries, and buses interconnect seamlessly.

NS – Nederlandse Spoorwegen (Dutch Railways)

• High-frequency trains connecting all cities
• Airport to city connections every few minutes
• Comfortable and punctual services

Trams & Metros

• Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht have strong tram networks
• Metro lines in Amsterdam and Rotterdam for quick travel

Bicycle Culture

• Netherlands is the cycling capital of the world
• Bicycle lanes everywhere
• Bike rentals available in all major cities

Accommodation Options in the Netherlands

The Netherlands offers diverse and comfortable stay options. No contact numbers are included as requested.

Amsterdam

• Canal-side boutique hotels
• Luxury 5-star properties
• Modern business hotels near Amsterdam Zuid

Rotterdam

• Architectural design hotels
• City-centre modern properties
• Harbour-view hotels

The Hague

• Heritage hotels near Binnenhof
• Beachfront hotels in Scheveningen
• Elegant boutique hotels

Utrecht & Haarlem

• Charming canal-view stays
• Historical inns
• Comfortable midrange hotels

Giethoorn

• Waterfront cottages
• Charming B&B stays
• Traditional Dutch guesthouses

Best Time to Visit the Netherlands

1. Spring (March – May)

Best season for tulip fields, Keukenhof Gardens, and mild climate.

2. Summer (June – September)

Perfect for sightseeing, canal cruises, outdoor activities, and festivals.

3. Autumn (October – November)

Beautiful fall foliage, lesser crowds, and perfect photography conditions.

4. Winter (December – February)

Christmas markets, cosy streets, and cultural experiences.

Suggested 7-Day Netherlands Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam – Explore canals, Dam Square, Royal Palace
Day 2: Rijksmuseum – Van Gogh Museum – Heineken Experience
Day 3: Zaanse Schans Windmill Village – Volendam – Marken
Day 4: Amsterdam to Rotterdam – Visit Markthal & Cube Houses
Day 5: Day trip to The Hague – Peace Palace – Scheveningen Beach
Day 6: Visit Keukenhof (Spring) or Leiden/Delft (Other Seasons)
Day 7: Giethoorn Water Village – Return to Amsterdam – Departure

Conclusion

The Netherlands is an exceptional European destination offering a harmonious blend of nature, culture, architecture, and modern lifestyle. Whether travelling from Kolkata or Delhi, the journey is smooth and well-connected. From Amsterdam’s canal beauty to Rotterdam’s futuristic skyline, from The Hague’s royal ambience to Giethoorn’s fairytale charm, every corner of the Netherlands welcomes travellers with warmth, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.