The Netherlands is known for its popular tourist destinations like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but there are also hidden gems waiting to be explored. One such underrated place is Delft, a charming city with its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and famous Delftware pottery.
Westkapelle, a quaint coastal village, offers beautiful beaches, scenic dunes, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the Netherlands,” is a fairytale-like village with its enchanting canals and traditional thatched-roof houses.
Bourtange, a fortified village, takes visitors back in time with its well-preserved ramparts, cobblestone streets, and historical reenactments.
Lastly, Uitdam is a serene village located along the Markermeer, offering tranquility, stunning landscapes, and the chance to experience authentic Dutch countryside life.
These underrated places provide unique cultural experiences, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, making them worthwhile destinations for those seeking a different side of the Netherlands.
Giethoorn, Overijssel
One of the best-kept secrets of the Netherlands is Giethoorn, located about two hours by train or an hour and a half by car from Amsterdam. With its canals, flower gardens and thatched houses, this charming little village exudes romance. Men dug out the canals to mine peat. The name “Giethoorn” is derived from the Dutch “Geitenhoorns” and alludes to the goat horn found in the fields.
Delft
One of the best-kept secrets of the Netherlands is the city of blue and white faience. The relaxing, romantic, and serene city of Delft is only 20 minutes from Rotterdam-The Hague Airport. You should not miss a visit to the Royal Delft, a museum dedicated to the famous Delft faience.
Westkapelle, Zeeland
Located in the southwest of the Netherlands, this island suffered from floodings, bombings, and a heavy price for the war, as more than 130 of its residents died and many were forced to flee Westkapelle. This neighborhood has often isolated itself from the rest of the Netherlands. In fact, many Westkapelle residents share the same surname. Westkapelle is an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers, as tourism has made the area more accessible to the outside world.
Lake Ijsselmeer, Central Netherlands
Lake Ijsselmeer is a must-visit location for nature lovers because it is surrounded by towns and villages like Uitdam, Volendam, or even the famous village of Edam (like the Edam cheese). The towns and villages around this lake, which is only 50 minutes by bike from the center of Amsterdam, are the ideal places to get back in touch with nature.
Stochemhoeve Park, Leiden
The wild garlic fields of Stochemhoeve (Allium Ursinum) are a free, beautiful natural spectacle. One of the most beautiful places you can visit in the Netherlands is the city of Leiden itself, which is a breathtaking place. If you want to discover a different side of the Netherlands and escape the large cities, you should put this place on the top of your to-do list. Leiden is an ideal place for a short vacation, as it is only 10 minutes away from The Hague. Come in May to see the wild garlic in bloom.
Uitdam, Waterland
Only 20 minutes by car and 50 minutes by public transportation separate this small community of 150 residents from the historic center of Amsterdam. Uitdam is one of the best-kept secrets of the Netherlands, with its charming, colorful wooden houses, endless expanses of countryside and special geographical location. On this isthmus, a long stretch of land surrounded by water, you can take wonderful walks on foot or by bike (there is a safe bike path) and enjoy the landscape, which is completely natural.
Bourtange, Groningen
This village in the northeast of the Netherlands shares a border with nearby Germany. The Eighty Years War, commonly known as the “Netherlands Revolt” against the Spanish monarchy, is responsible for the fortifications of Bourtange. The Spanish camp was difficult to capture and required extensive fortifications to resist the popular uprising that would end 80 years later with the recognition of the independence of the provinces stretching from the Netherlands to Belgium.
Veluwezoom National Park, Rheden
You can choose how you want to explore the oldest and most stunning national park in the Netherlands: on foot, by bike or even on horseback. This oasis of tranquility has been guarded since 1931. Thanks to the animals and flowers, all your worries will disappear. If you keep your eyes open, you can observe wild boars and deer. The mist and purple heather create an amazing setting for remarkable hikes.