Best things to do in the Netherlands in the spring
The Netherlands in the spring is an incredible destination for visitors. The country comes alive with colorful flowers, mild weather, and longer days. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a spring trip to the Netherlands. To help you make the most of your visit, we have put together a list of the best things to do in the Netherlands in the spring. There will also be resources throughout the post so going into a deep dive will be easy peasy. Let’s get into it!
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What is there to do in spring in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is famous for its picturesque countryside, charming towns, and beautiful flowers. Spring is the perfect time to explore the outdoors and take in the beauty and simplicity of the countryside.
Keukenhof Gardens: Known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof is the largest flower garden in the world and a must-see destination in the spring. The gardens are open from mid-March to mid-May, and visitors can see millions of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers in bloom. It’s a great place to spend a day out. Here is a YouTube video that explains Keukenhof and its features in more detail.
Windmills: The Netherlands is home to many windmills, some of which are still in operation. Visitors can take a tour of the windmills and learn about their history and how they were used to grind grain and pump water. Zaanse Schans and Kinderdijk are some of the most famous, but they pop up everywhere!
Biking: The Netherlands is a great destination for cycling, and spring is a perfect time to explore the countryside on two wheels. Visitors can rent a bike and take a leisurely ride through the picturesque towns and villages, stopping to admire the flowers and take in the scenery. If cycling is a bit too intense, scooters and small electric cars are available in different areas throughout the more popular visitors areas.
Tulip Fields: Many visitors visit the Netherlands in the spring just for the tulips. Keep in mind that the fields aren’t inside the Keukenhof as many believe, but some are in the area. To explore, rent a scooter or bike to get around. Please do not enter any fields without the farmer’s permission! Some farms that allow walking and photos in the fields are Tulip Experience Amsterdam and de Tulperij —personal favorites. Tulip-picking is possible at de Tulperij!
Indoor things to do in spring in the Netherlands
This small country is home to many world-renowned museums, art galleries and festivals, and spring is a perfect time to explore the country's rich culture and history. Just hope for good weather, but prepare for chilly and rainy weather.
Rijksmuseum: The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the most famous museums in the Netherlands and is home to an extensive collection of art and artifacts from the country's history. Visitors can see works by famous Dutch artists such as Rembrandt and Vermeer, as well as other masterpieces from around the world. This is a massive museum and takes a lot of time to explore. Hiring a guide will help you make the most of the experience. Also nearby are the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum.
Anne Frank House: The Anne Frank House is a must-see destination for visitors to the Netherlands. The house is the hiding place where Anne Frank and her family lived during the war, and visitors can learn about their stories and the history of the Holocaust. The original diary is also found here. Also recommended are the Portuguese Synagogue and the Jewish Museum.
Batavialand: Dive into the history of the Netherlands with these two museums in one located in Lelystad. There’s even a ship you can explore to see what life what like in the days of the Dutch exploring the world. Next door is a fashion outlet that is a favorite shopping stop.
King’s Day: Wear orange for this national holiday that is celebrated in every corner of The Netherlands. In Amsterdam, the city has a canal parade that goes on for hours, so grab a spot early! It’s also a day when people sell anything and everything as it’s a massive flea market. It’s a celebratory and party atmosphere with music popping up on various corners.
Local food highlights
It may not seem like it, but The Netherlands is home to a diverse and delicious culinary scene, and why not spend time indulging in local food?
Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and visitors can sample a wide variety of types and flavors at the many cheese shops and markets throughout the country. Recommended is Woerden, a cheese town near Utrecht. While Gouda is known worldwide, Woerden gives a much calmer and friendlier experience around cheese.
Seafood: The Netherlands is also known for its seafood, especially herring and eel. Visitors can try traditional Dutch dishes such as raw herring with onions, or grilled eel with a sweet and tangy sauce. Look for the special stalls found sprinkled around any Dutch city.
Stroopwafels: Stroopwafels are a traditional Dutch treat from Gouda made of one waffle sliced thin with a syrup filling in between. They can be found at many street vendors and markets and make a delicious snack or dessert. Rudi’s Original Stroopwafel found on the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam and the Kamphuisen Siroopwafelfabriek in Gouda are highly recommended. They are a bit different from each other, but both are delicious.
Beer: The Netherlands is also home to a growing craft beer scene, with many microbreweries and bars that specialize in local brews. Visitors can try a variety of beers, ranging from traditional styles to more experimental flavors such as fruit beers.
Unique places to eat:
Jopenkerk (Haarlem) - Enjoy lunch or dinner in a former church-turned-brewery. It’s always busy and a favorite with locals and visitors.
Restaurant Floreyn (Amsterdam) - Dutch cuisine done in a fine-dining style is an experience not easily found.
Koozie Lunchroom (Rotterdam) - Simple dishes made with love on this island in the middle of Rotterdam.
This itinerary is just a small sample of the many things that the Netherlands has to offer in the spring. Whether you are looking to explore the outdoors, experience the culture and art, or indulge in the local food, the Netherlands is a destination that will not disappoint. With the right planning and a little bit of flexibility, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country and create lasting memories of your trip.
Recommended places to stay in the Netherlands
INK Hotel (Amsterdam) - Highly recommended for its good stuff, great location, and unique rooms. This former home to a local newspaper uses its history through the hotel to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Tip: On the weekends, brunch is exceptional.
Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus (The Hague / Scheveningen) - Filled with history back to 1818, from a bathhouse to a fancy spot for a concert or gala, to now, a grant hotel worth the word “grand”. Tip: Plan for a high tea with views of the North Sea.
nhow Rotterdam - Take in the views of the famous Erasmusbrug (bridge) and enjoy cozy rooms. Just a few steps from the metro and within walking distance to most attractions including the downtown area. Tip: Head to the hotel bar for the balcony with the best view of the bridge.