How to Travel Smart to the Netherlands on a Schengen Visa?

Practical Tips for Travelers to Holland

Here are some practical tips to make your travel experience in the Netherlands smoother:

• Weather: The weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Carry an umbrella or a raincoat, as rain showers are common even in summer.
• Public Transportation: The Netherlands has an excellent public transportation system, including trains, trams, and buses. Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a reusable card that allows you to travel seamlessly on various modes of public transport.
• Bicycling: The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture. Renting a bicycle is a fantastic way to explore the cities and countryside. Follow the local cycling rules, use designated bike lanes, and always lock your bicycle securely.
• Language: While Dutch is the official language, many Dutch people speak English fluently. However, learning a few basic Dutch phrases can be helpful and appreciated by the locals.

Famous Visits and Tourist Spots

The Netherlands offers a plethora of tourist attractions and famous landmarks. Here are some must-visit places:

• Amsterdam: Explore the charming canals, visit the Anne Frank House, admire the masterpieces at the Van Gogh Museum, and take a stroll in the vibrant Jordaan neighborhood.
• Rotterdam: Known for its modern architecture, Rotterdam is home to iconic structures like the Erasmus Bridge and the Markthal. Don’t miss the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the vibrant Witte de Withstraat.
• The Hague: Visit the political heart of the Netherlands and explore famous landmarks such as the Peace Palace, the Binnenhof, and the Mauritshuis museum.
• Keukenhof: If you’re visiting in spring, Keukenhof is a must-see. It’s the world’s largest flower garden, showcasing vibrant tulips and other beautiful blooms.

Tips for Traveling Cheap

Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips to save money:

• Flight: Look for budget airlines or compare prices across different airlines to find the best deals on flights to the Netherlands. Consider flying into smaller airports like Eindhoven or Rotterdam to save on airfare.
• Accommodation: Opt for budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. Booking in advance or staying in less touristy areas can often result in lower prices.
• Food: Try local street food or eat at affordable restaurants to experience Dutch cuisine without breaking the bank. Avoid dining in touristy areas, as prices tend to be higher.

Places to See and a Proposed Itinerary

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a trip to the Netherlands:

• Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam, explore the city center, visit the Anne Frank House, and take a canal cruise.
• Day 2: Rent a bicycle and cycle through Vondelpark, Museumplein, and the trendy neighborhood of De Pijp.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to the historic city of Haarlem or the picturesque windmill village of Zaanse Schans.
• Day 4: Travel to Rotterdam, explore the city’s architecture, visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
• Day 5: Head to The Hague, visit the Peace Palace, explore the Binnenhof, and relax at the Scheveningen beach.
• Day 6: Visit the Keukenhof gardens (seasonal) or explore the charming city of Utrecht.
• Day 7: Return to Amsterdam for some last-minute shopping and depart for home.

Renowned Asian Restaurants in the Netherlands

If you’re craving Asian cuisine during your trip, the Netherlands offers a variety of renowned Asian restaurants. Here are a few recommendations:

• Nam Kee – Known for its delicious Chinese dishes, especially their famous Peking duck.
• Umami by Han – A popular choice for contemporary Asian fusion cuisine, blending flavors from different Asian countries.
• Saravanaa Bhavan – A well-known South Indian vegetarian restaurant serving authentic dosas, curries, and other traditional dishes.
• Yamazato – Indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisine, including sushi, sashimi, and traditional kaiseki menus.

Popular Food Dishes and Unique Attractions in the Netherlands

When it comes to food, the Netherlands offers a range of tasty dishes. Some popular Dutch food items to try include:

• Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs usually served with mustard as a snack.
• Stroopwafel: A sweet treat made of two thin waffles with caramel syrup in between.
• Haring: Raw herring served with pickles and onions, often eaten as a street food delicacy.
• Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter.

Aside from the famous tourist spots, the Netherlands also boasts unique attractions such as the Kinderdijk windmills, the beautiful tulip fields of Lisse, and the traditional fishing villages of Volendam and Marken.