10 of the Most Beautiful Places in the Netherlands

While in most countries you usually find the prettiest places outside of the capital, Amsterdam is still one of the best scenic spots in the Netherlands. Crisscrossed by the UNESCO–listed Amsterdam Canal Ring and home to more than 1,200 bridges, the “Venice of the North” is more like a quaint town than a capital city. Some of the most photogenic attractions include the floating flower market of Bloemenmarkt and the lovely neighborhood of Jordaan. Tick them all off on a bike tour or escape the crowds on land during a canal cruise.

Steeped in history as the official birthplace of the European Union, Maastricht is a centuries-old city with a pretty historical center that’s ideal for wandering. It’s (unsurprisingly) a particular draw for history buffs, thanks to the Cauberg Cavern, an underground labyrinth of wartime tunnels filled with sculptures and murals.

Other sights that make this one of the most picturesque places in the Netherlands include the regally Romanesque church of Onze Lieve Vrouw Sterre der Zee Basiliek and the 11th-century working watermill of De Bisschopsmolen in the quaint and cobbled Jekerkwartier district, which has a decidedly French atmosphere with its chic cafés.

Leiden boasts several major accolades: Not only is it the birthplace of Rembrandt, one of the country’s best-known artists, but it’s also a must-visit for culture lovers as the home of the Netherlands’ oldest university, plus 13 museums. It’s also nicknamed “Amsterdam in Miniature” by locals, thanks to its 17th-century historical center and picturesque canals; however, you certainly won’t find the capital’s crowds in this hidden gem in the Netherlands. Navigate the banks of the Leiden Rhine with ease during a walking tour of this fabled city.

With its flower-filled meadows, clog-making factories, and wooden windmills, the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans recreates the Netherlands of yesteryear. Today, it's home to traditional 18th-century-style houses five working windmills, making it one of the top destinations in the Netherlands. Either hop on the train from the capital, or opt for a seamless day trip that helps you tick off all of its highlights—many excursions also stop in Edam to taste its world-famous cheese.

Related: 9 of the Top Day Trips from Amsterdam

Sitting pretty in the province of North Holland, Volendam is a quaint fishing village where boats bob in the harbor and restaurants serve some of the Netherlands’ finest seafood. Its picturesque landscapes, dotted with colorful, triangular-roofed houses, were a favorite among 19th-century painters—and it’s easy to see why. Attraction-packed day trips from Amsterdam often combine Volendam with the lovely island of Marken, just a short ferry ride away.

With their windswept plains, sandy beaches, and expansive natural reserves, the Frisian Islands are one of the top natural attractions in the Netherlands. Comprising the islands of Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, and Schiermonnikoog, highlights include the UNESCO–listed Wadden Sea sand and mud flats, and the lonely-looking red-and-white striped lighthouse that’s perched on the coast. You can spot seals on a boat safari or explore the World War II Bunker Museum—a must for history buffs—in West-Terschelling.

From March through May, Keukenhof Gardens erupt into a riot of color. The pastel petals of more than seven million bulbs create a spectacular springtime display that attracts flower fans from across the globe. But bear in mind, it’s one of the most famous attractions in the Netherlands, and attracts huge crowds during its small opening window. That said, secure your entry and save hours of waiting in line with a convenient prebooked admission pass and round-trip transfer combo.

Related: Know Before You Go: Visiting Keukenhof Gardens

With its winding waterways and quaint houses surrounded by lush green gardens, Giethoorn is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. Even though the country has plenty of canals, it's this hamlet that takes the title of the “Dutch Venice.” Plus, no car horns are disturbing the peace here—vehicles are banned in this picture-perfect place. Book a stress-free day trip to see the best of Giethoorn; for a little extra luxury, this tour comes with a huge cheese platter.

Sandwiched between Rotterdam and The Hague, Delft is a town that’s just as pretty as the Delft Blue pottery it’s known for. But the area's signature decorative jugs and plates are just the beginning. Delft also has a charming medieval town center and is the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer, so it has a rich artistic heritage. Visit select social media–worthy spots on a photography tour or take a walking tour to delve deeper into Delft's pottery and past.

Covering a stretch of coastline lapped by the refreshing waters of the North Sea, Zandvoort is a seaside town famous for its vast golden beach. While this coastal escape feels worlds away from the bustling streets of Amsterdam, it's only a 45-minute drive from the capital, meaning it’s easy to swap canals for the coast on full-day tours from Amsterdam. Zandvoort's waterfront is especially beautiful in the summertime, when it's bathed in sunlight all afternoon. Lined with plenty of beach bars to relax and watch the sunset from, this is an ideal escape to add onto a trip to Amsterdam.