THE COUNTRY
As ignorant as it sounds, many people are automated to thinking Amsterdam when the Netherlands comes up in a conversation. Rightfully so but there's more to the country than just Amsterdam. In fact, Amsterdam is my least favourite city in the Netherlands. No offence to any of the Dutch people but it's the truth! In fact, my Dutch friends also said that it's their least favourite.
There's just so much more to the country than Amsterdam. It's home to many picturesque canals, colourful tulip fields, windmill, green landscape, and over 22 million bicycles. Since we're talking numbers, the total population in the country is just above 17 million! The Dutchies sure love cycling!
Aside from cycling there are also tons of activities available from experiencing the nightlife in the world renown red light district, enjoying serene spots in the wide open fields, having a cold one by the canal, or of course - going into a "coffee shop".
Whether you're travelling here just for the weekend, which a lot of people typically do, or if you're here to actually explore the country, READ UP! So let's jump right into it!
VISA/ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You need to make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your departure date from the Netherlands. Most passport holders are able to obtain a 90 day tourist visit at a no cost.
If you're unsure about your country, you may double check online to see if you need any additional requirements for the entry.
CURRENCY
Euro is the currency in the Netherlands. ATM's are everywhere. Debit and credit cards are accepted in almost all the places.
Euro's both have notes and coins. Try to get rid of your coins first as much as you can in transactions. Don't neglect them to avoid having too much by the time you leave the country. This is a good way to squeeze out every penny out of your pocket to stretch your budget even further as they do add up in the end.
TRANSPORTATION
Bicycles - There are over 22 million bicycles here. Go ahead and rent one! This is probably the most inexpensive and the most common way (common may be an understatement..) to get around a city. Netherlands is a bicycle country, every one in this country has at least a bike or two so get around like a local!
Buses and Trams - Another option to get around in a city. Sometimes it is necessary to use these for a much longe trip.
Trains (Sprinter, Intercity etc.) - The Netherlands is not a big country, getting from one city to another typically doesn't take that long, maybe several hours tops. The trains are comfy, fast, and probably the most inexpensive way to get from one city to another. My favourite way to get around and probably will be the best option for you as well.
THINGS TO DO
Windmills at Kinderdijk - This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has 19 windmills with a stunning setting! Try coming here for sunrise or sunset to avoid the crowd.
Haarlem - A city that maintained it's medieval roots just north west of the country.
Bike Around Amsterdam - The Red Light District, the nightlife, the picturesque canals are cool and all but biking around the city is also a must here!
Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam) - You will learn about the the arts and the history of the Netherlands in this museum.
Cube Houses (Rotterdam) - One of the coolest things in I've seen in the Netherlands. It is one creative architecture.
Vondelpark (Amsterdam) - After a long day in the city, this is a good place to relax.
Join a Free Walking Tour - Most of the major cities in the Netherlands offer an organized walking tour for free! A great activity for those on a budget wanting to know more about the city and the country.
Keukenhof Garden (Lisse) - Depending on the time of the year, you will be able see the colourful tulips here. They are open from March to May.
Markthal (Rotterdam) - A massive colourful market great for grabbing a bite or a drink.
Utrecht - A medieval old town in the central part of the country. A fairly laid back city worth visiting.
Amsterdam - Very crowded, very touristy, and very expensive! I'm not even exaggerating. Here you will find The Red Light District, coffee shops, and other "coffee shops" (if you know what I mean..), picturesque canals, and well, people who just want to throw their money away.
Efteling (Kaatsheuvel) - Want to feel like a kid again? This is a fantasy amusement park perfect for both kids and adults to visit.
Zaanse Schans (Zaandam) - Another great spot to see the windmills of the Netherlands.
"IAmsterdam" Sign (Amsterdam) - I'm sure you've all seen this online. I don't need to say more.
Flevoland - A province rich of landscape.
Oudehaven (Rotterdam) - A great spot to have a seat and grab a grub or a drink.
Heineken Experience Brewery (Amsterdam) - This is for all the beer lovers.
To see the real beauty of the country, you must see other places aside from Amsterdam. It is probably the most visited place in the Netherlands and I completely understand if it is a hot tourist destination. That being said places like Haarlem, Zaandam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam just to name a few are worth visiting just as much.
That's it for now and I hope you found my guide useful. I wish you guys all the best in your travels and happy adventuring!