Welcome to the Netherlands, a country renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and captivating cities. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a group of friends, or a family seeking fun and adventure together, the Netherlands has something to offer everyone. Let Hostelling International help you navigate through the Dutch experience, making your journey both comfortable and certainly memorable. Welkom in nederland!
Amsterdam – The Heart of the Netherlands
Amsterdam, the capital city, is a vibrant hub of history, art, and culture. Staying at one of the HI hostels here will place you at the centre of it all. Jump on a boat tour along the picturesque canals or take a walk in the city parks. The largest park is also the most famous in the Netherlands, Vondelpark. Visit the Anne Frank House, wander through the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Enjoy the historic buildings, and bustling markets, not forgetting the great shops in the old city centre! Bicycles can be seen everywhere in this amazing city, so why not rent one and feel like a local, definitely one of the best ways to see the city!
Utrecht – A Blend of Old and New
Utrecht, with its medieval old town and tree-lined canals, is a city that beautifully blends history with a modern lifestyle. Stayokay Utrecht Centrum is great for those who want to be in the centre of it all, in Neude Square. Here you are really spoilt for choice with so many cute cafes and restaurants, most with relaxing terraces, and shops galore. Stroll the quaint streets, visit the Dom Tower and Rietveld Schröder House. Enjoy the lively cafes along the Oudegracht canal. For those who would like to experience the natural beauty of the Rhijnauwen, check out the beautiful riverside Stayokay Utrecht-Bunnik!
Arnhem – A Gateway to Nature and History
Arnhem, a city rich in both natural beauty and historical significance, offers a unique Dutch adventure. Stayokay Arnhem is perfectly located to explore the stunning Hoge Veluwe National Park, where you can cycle through diverse landscapes and visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to an extensive Van Gogh collection. In the nearby centre of Arnhem you’ll find boutique shops and eateries. The town is famous for its pivotal role in World War II, commemorated at the Airborne Museum and the John Frost Bridge.
Rotterdam – A Modern Architectural Marvel
The contemporary vibe in Rotterdam is complemented by a lively arts scene, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts. It is a city of innovation and modern architecture. Stayokay Rotterdam, famous for its cube houses, is ideally located in the heart of the city. Discover the Erasmus Bridge and the iconic open air market, the Markthal. Take a tour of the city’s port, one of the largest in the world, or just relax, watching the world go by, at the cosy Oude Haven. Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the Kunsthal but don’t miss out on the trendy Witte de Withstraat, with its boutique shops, and cool bars and restaurants! Have fun!
The Hague – The Royal City by the Sea
The Hague has it all! From royal palaces to the international courts, the popular Plein and Grote Markt squares to fancy department stores and cute boutiques, this city offers a unique blend of culture and coastal beauty! Leave your bags at Stayokay Den Haag and venture out into the heart of the city. Marvel at the Mauritshuis Museum, home to Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” enjoy the stunning Peace Palace or explore the historic Binnenhof complex, and enjoy the city’s vibrant international scene! Don’t forget that the coast is just 5km away. Why not rent a bike and bask on the Scheveningen Beach?
Haarlem – Tradition and Charm in a Nutshell
Haarlem, is a charming city that offers a more relaxed Dutch experience. Situated on the waterside, Stayokay Haarlem is a great base to explore the beautiful Grote Markt, with its stunning St. Bavokerk church. Visit the Frans Hals Museum to appreciate works by the Dutch Golden Age painter, and stroll through the city’s picturesque streets lined with boutique shops and cafes. Don’t miss the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, and the serene Hofjes, historic almshouses with beautiful gardens.
No trip to the Netherlands is complete without witnessing its iconic tulip fields and windmills! If you have time left then it is well worth squeezing into your itinerary a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens in spring to see a breathtaking display of tulips in bloom. A trip to Zaanse Schans offers a glimpse into the traditional Dutch way of life, with its historic windmills and artisan workshops and waffles! Quaint Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a hidden gem worth discovering too. This car-free village is best explored by boat, gliding through its tranquil canals and under charming bridges.
The Netherlands is a country of endless charm and beauty. There are so many things to do, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes, there’s something to captivate every traveller. Staying in Hostelling International hostels ensures a comfortable, affordable, and enriching experience. So pack those bags, embrace the Dutch spirit, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the charming Netherlands!
