Discover Tailor-Made Netherlands Vacations

Spring (March to May) is perhaps the most iconic time to travel, as the country bursts into colour during tulip season. Fields bloom with vibrant flowers, especially in regions like Lisse and the Keukenhof Gardens. The weather is mild, making it ideal for cycling and exploring charming towns.

Summer (June to August) brings long, sunny days perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes, canal cruises, and numerous music and cultural festivals. Cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam bustle with activity, and beaches along the North Sea coast offer a pleasant escape.

Fall (September to November) is quieter, with fewer tourists and lower prices. Trees turn vivid shades of red and gold, creating stunning scenes in city parks and in the countryside. It’s a peaceful time for museum-hopping with shorter lineups and ideal for scenic walks along the canals.

Visiting in winter (December to February) transforms the Netherlands into a festive wonderland. Christmas markets sparkle with lights, and if temperatures drop enough, canals freeze over for traditional ice skating. It’s a magical experience rooted in Dutch culture.

For more details, consult our guide on the Best Time to Visit the Netherlands.

Pedal through cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht and you’ll see locals of all ages cycling to work, to school, or even on dates. This goes hand in hand with the canal lifestyle. Tranquil waterways are lined with houseboats, historic architecture, and picturesque bridges that give Dutch cities their unique charm.

Art lovers will also be captivated by the Netherlands' legendary artistic heritage. From the dramatic portraits of Rembrandt to the emotionally charged brushstrokes of Van Gogh, Dutch art has made a lasting impact on the world. The country’s museums, like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, offer a deep dive into this legacy.

Whether you're cycling along canals, tasting traditional bites, or standing in front of a masterpiece, Dutch culture is a blend of simple pleasures and timeless artistry. Experience the Netherlands’ rich traditions and flavours with a Goway vacation of your own.

Classics like stamppot, a hearty dish made with mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and served with sausage, are especially popular in colder months. Poffertjes, tiny fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, are a sweet street-food favourite. For snacks, try bitterballen, deep-fried meatballs served with mustard and a cold beer. Dutch food may be humble, but it’s deeply satisfying and full of flavour.

No visit is complete without tasting a stroopwafel, a sweet, chewy waffle cookie filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed warm over a cup of coffee. For the adventurous, try raw herring, often served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by the tail. Dutch cheese is world renowned, with Gouda and Edam being just the beginning of a tasty trip through local markets and farms. And don’t forget to try the incredible Indonesian restaurants (the Dutch East Indies were an important former colony of the Netherlands) you’ll find in big cities like Amsterdam.

Some advice from Destination Specialist Allan Birkett - "Before visiting Amsterdam make sure you know the difference between coffee shops and cafés. Coffee shops sell cannabis, while cafés serve actual coffee - a distinction every visitor should know!"

The official language is Dutch, but English is widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist areas.

You will need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your stay to enter the country. Schengen visa rules apply, so check if your country requires one before you go.

The Netherlands is designed for cycling. If you’re renting a bike, stick to the designated lanes, use hand signals, and always watch out for other cyclists and pedestrians. If you’re not biking, the public transport system is excellent. Trains, trams, and buses run smoothly and on time, so purchase an OV-chipkaart for seamless travel on all of these.

For more practical insights on visiting the Netherlands, check out our guide to Things to Know Before You Go.