Netherlands city breaks

The Netherlands is pretty affordable year-round, but the cheapest time of year is usually from November to March (excluding Christmas). This is considered to be ‘off-season’ due to the colder weather and fewer crowds. But don’t be put off by a bit of rain, it’s also a great time to explore Amsterdam’s biggest attractions like Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House with little to no queues.  Or you can always stay warm with a Heineken Experience and hide away with a beer in its old brewery. 

Spring/summer isn’t completely off the cards for a budget-friendly break either, especially if you snap up a last-minute getaway.

Although there’s never a bad time to visit the Netherlands, you might want to time your trip around the likes of affordability, festivities or things to do. 

Best for affordability: January to March

Best for seeing the tulips bloom: April to May 

Best for weather and festivals: June to August

Best for mild weather with fewer crowds: September to October

Best for Christmas markets: November to December 

Oh boy, there are so many delicious Dutch foods to try! Here are a few of our favourites… 

First up, we have stroopwafels - these are thin waffles with a sweet syrup filling. They're the perfect combination of crispy and chewy, especially when you place them on top of a hot cup of tea or coffee for 30 seconds! The caramel centre will simply melt in your mouth. 

Another must-try is bitterballen. These are small, deep-fried meatballs that are crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They're often served as a snack or appetizer and dipped in mustard. 

If you're a seafood fan, you simply have to sample herring. Raw herring is a traditional Dutch light bite that typically comes with onions and pickles. It might sound a bit strange if you're not used to it, but trust us, it's worth trying!

Finally, we can't talk about the local cuisine without mentioning Dutch cheese. Gouda and Edam are two of the most famous types, and they're packed with flavour.  Often served on bread or crackers, they both go down a treat with wine. 

Did you know the Netherlands is famous for its bike culture, and cycling is a great way to get around in most cities? You can rent a bike pretty much anywhere, and there are plenty of dedicated paths and lanes to keep you safe. Plus, it's a fun and healthy way to take in the sights.

If cycling isn't your thing, you can also take advantage of the top-rated public transport system. Trains, buses, and trams are all widely available and efficient, making it easy to get from one city to another or even around town. You can buy tickets at stations or use a contactless OV-chipkaart for convenient and cashless travel.

Of course, if you prefer to hire a car, that's also an option. Just be aware that parking in cities can be difficult and expensive, and traffic can be busy during rush hour. But if you're looking to explore the countryside or visit smaller towns, driving offers the freedom to do so.

The Netherlands is filled with amazing tourist attractions! Whether you're into art, history, or just taking in the beautiful scenery, you won’t be short of things to do. Here are just a few popular places to visit:

Amsterdam is the biggie, of course! This city is known for its charming canals, stunning architecture and vibrant culture. You can visit famous sites like the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum, that’s when you’re not wandering the streets and soaking up the atmosphere. Plus, there are plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants to enjoy along the way.

For a taste of the Dutch countryside, head to the Keukenhof Gardens. This blossoming park contains over 7 million tulips and other flowers, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. The gardens are only open for a few months each year, so plan your visit accordingly!

And let's not forget about the iconic windmills! The Netherlands is home to numerous windmills, but the Kinderdijk are perhaps the most famous. These 19 windmills are situated along a canal and have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.