Christine RogadorLooking for the famous Landmarks in The Netherlans?
Located in Northwestern Europe, The Netherlands is one of the most popular travel destinations that offer a blend of historical and modern attractions. Known for its charming tulip fields, iconic windmills, and picturesque canals, it attracts visitors yearly.
With its medieval and contemporary architectural wonders, The Netherlands boasts a plethora of renowned landmarks, ranging from medieval to modern structures, each offering a distinctive insight into its popularity as a tourist attraction.
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, features several cultural attractions and popular museums, such as the Rijksmuseum which holds a collection of masterpieces from renowned artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer that are still preserved today, the Van Gogh Museum, and the hiding place of Anne Frank during World War II.
These landmarks are just a few of the many beautiful and historic places the Netherlands offers. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or natural beauty, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.
There are so many fascinating places to explore and experience in the Netherlands, making it difficult to decide where to start. We have compiled a list of famous Landmarks in The Netherlands that you should take advantage of by adding these destinations to your travel itinerary.
17 Famous Landmarks In The Netherlands
1. Keukenhof
Planning to visit the Netherlands and dreaming of visiting the tulip fields? Well, those who love grand gardens need to look no further than Keukenhof, which is often nicknamed the ‘Garden of Europe’ thanks to its status as one of the largest gardens on the continent, which is open to visitors.
Keukenhof is surrounded by numerous fields of brightly coloured tulips, which bloom in every colour of the rainbow, including oranges, reds, yellows, and pinks, meaning that you can easily combine a visit to Keukenhof with a trip to the nearby tulip fields.
Keukenhof itself is situated on the fringes of the town of Lisse (an easy day trip away from Amsterdam) and is actually only open for eight weeks a year, making it that bit more special to visit. Known in English as ‘Kitchen Garden,’ this iconic Dutch destination showcases over 7 million flower bulbs over the space of 32 hectares.
There are not just tulips on show, but also hyacinths, daffodils, carnations, and even orchids (in their own special pavilion). The best period to visit is during the last two weeks of April when the majority of flowers are at full bloom.
Other highlights of a visit to Keukenhof include snapping a photo with the windmill and taking an optional canal cruise which takes visitors through the tulip fields surrounding Keukenhof.
Contributed by: Sophie from Solo Sophie
2. The Canals of Amsterdam
The canals in Amsterdam are one of the most iconic landmarks in The Netherlands. The picturesque nature of Amsterdam’s canals makes them one of the most photographed things in Europe. Dutch canals attract visitors from all over the world. The canals were built for various reasons, from transporting goods to water management.
A boat cruise is a must-do if you want to experience the Dutch canals during your trip! You can explore Amsterdam via the network of canals. Man bus tours also include a canal cruise. You could even hire a pedal boat and see the canals at your own pace. Water taxis also operate on Amsterdam’s canals. This is a great activity if you are visiting Amsterdam with kids.
Look closely at the canals in some places, and you’ll see houseboats. Amsterdam alone has over 2,500 houseboats. If you search carefully when booking your trip, you may even find one to stay in.
If you love the canals in Amsterdam, there are also many other stunning canals throughout The Netherlands, from small villages to bigger cities like Utrecht.
Contributed by: Sylvie, European Cities with kids
3. Oldehove
The Oldehove is a monument in Leeuwarden, the capital city of Friesland. It has been built in 1529 and is quite famous. The Oldehove from Leeuwarden is leaning sideways, a lot more than the leaning tower of Pisa.
The Oldehove has a height of 39 meters and hangs about 1.99 meters off centre. You can climb the 183 steps upstairs – or simply take the in 2011 installed elevators for a great view.
You can visit the leaning tower of Leeuwarden between the months of April and October daily. The entrance fee for adults is 3.50 EUR, and reduced entrance fees for children and students are available.
The Oldehove is located right in the city center of Leeuwarden, so there are many amazing things to do in the area. Have a delicious brunch at Stek, and enjoy an amazing view over the Stadsgracht and the Oldehove in the background. Other interesting landmarks in the area are the Keramiekmuseum Princessehof, the Westerpark and the Stadsschauwburg De Harmonie. A walk through the scenic Prinsentuin is also highly recommended.
Since Leeuwarden is far off the beaten tracks, I suggest combining the visit with a day trip to Ameland. It is easy to reach by ferry and makes for a great beach day. On the way over you might even be able to spot some seals!
Contributed by: Sabrina from Shades Of Summer
4. Teylers Museum
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 am -5:00 pm
Admission Fee: Adults: €15, Children( 6-17): €2.5.
The Teylers Museum in Haarlem is one of the oldest – and arguably prettiest- museums in the Netherlands. Dating back to 1784, stepping into the museum almost feels like stepping back hundreds of years in time. Originally built after the rich silk merchant Pieter Teyler van der Hulst bequeathed the equivalent of 80 million euros to the Teylers Foundation to promote theology, science, and art.
The museum has a wide collection of fossils, artworks and a vast large library with historically relevant books. The cherry on top of the sundae is the beautiful 18th-century Oval room which is lined with glass display cases in which you will find some treasures of the 18th century.
It is a great place for lovers of architecture, too as the house has remained untouched since it was built, which means high ceilings adorned with colorful frescoes and massive wooden staircases winding their way upwards.
Haarlem is the perfect weekend trip from Amsterdam and is easily reachable from the capital via a 15-minute train ride. Teylers Museums is located in the center of Haarlem, on the banks of the Spaarne River. It is a comfortable 10-minute walk from the central station of Haarlem.
Practical information for your visit: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday between the hours of 10.00 AM and 05.00 PM, entrance tickets cost €15 for adults, and there is a reduced rate for kids between 6-17, they pay a mere €2.5. Tickets can be bought online or alternatively at the reception of the museum located right inside the front door.
Contributed by: Caroline from Veggie Way Farer
5. Portuguese Synagogue of Amsterdam
The Portuguese Synagogue is one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands. This beautiful 17th Century synagogue is located in the heart of Amsterdam and is the perfect stop to add to an Amsterdam city break itinerary.
The synagogue was built by Portuguese Jewish immigrants who came to the Netherlands to escape the Spanish Inquisition. During the Dutch Golden Age (1588-1672), this community of Portuguese Jews was one of the wealthiest throughout Europe. They built this grand synagogue as a testament to their wealth and prosperity.
The Portuguese Synagogue is still an active house of worship, therefore, visitors may only enter on non-holidays. Tickets to the synagogue cost €18 and include admission to the Jewish Museum across the street. The ticket also includes an excellent audioguide that takes you through the various parts of the synagogue complex while explaining the ritual objects and history of the congregation.
One highlight of the visit is the synagogue interior, with its dark wooden pews, stone columns, and golden chandeliers. This regal space is not wired for electricity; candles still light the sanctuary on Shabbat (the Jewish Sabbath) and other holidays. Entering this space, it’s easy to imagine it awash in a candle-lit glow as worshippers gather to practice their faith.
Next time you’re in Amsterdam, make sure to add a visit to the Portuguese synagogue. This must-visit Netherlands landmark will teach you about the history of Jewish people in Amsterdam – why they came and how they integrated into the fabric of Dutch society. This small ethnic and religious group had an outsized impact during the Dutch Golden Age, and learning about their history will round out your trip to the Netherlands.
Contributed by: Tamar from World by Weekend
6. Giethoorn
Giethoorn is an 800 year old fairytale village in the Netherlands, also known as the Dutch Venice. This is due to the lack of roads in the village which means that locals commute by boats. However, unlike Venice, ‘whisper’ boats are more common in Giethoorn. These boats have motors that don’t make a noise, thus preserving the tranquility of this village.
One of the best things to do in Giethoorn for visitors is to rent a whisper boat and see the canals and a few of the 176 bridges. There is no permit or license needed to operate a boat in Giethoorn and one can easily book a boat online or in-person. Summertime in Giethoorn gets busy so it’s always better to book a boat in advance.
That being said, the end of Spring is the best time to visit Giethoorn since there are fewer people around and the gardens and houses in this idyllic village are laden with flowers in every imaginable colour.
Giethoorn can be reached from Amsterdam by a combination of train and bus. Renting a car is another easy option, given that there is a parking lot on the outskirts of Giethoorn. There are even a number of bus and boat tours to Giethoorn from Amsterdam.
Contributed by: Soujanya from The Spicy Journey
7. Zaanse Schans
Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00 am -5:00pm
Zaanse Schans is arguably the best place in the Netherlands to see those famous Dutch windmills. Just north of Amsterdam, the historic old Dutch village features multiple windmills along a beautiful winding river.
At Zaanse Schans you can learn all about the history of Dutch windmills and how they used to use the power of the wind to harvest grain and generate power for various other purposes.
The village is also a great place to learn about the history of cheese making in the Netherlands. And if you want to know why the Dutch ever thought wooden shoes were a great idea, the daily Clog Workshop will tell you all about it.
There is no fee to visit Zaanse Schans and you’re free to just walk around while you’re there. Some of the individual buildings on site have entrance fees, however, and if you’re driving there is a fee to park. Zaanse Schans is open daily from 9-5 and can get busy in the spring and summer, so it’s best to visit as early in the day as possible and avoid weekends if you can.
Zaanse Schans is an easy day trip from Amsterdam and can be combined with a visit to the historic Dutch fishing villages of Volendam and Marken. If you have a car, it’s quite easy to get to Zaanse Schans, though there is limited parking (pro tip: there are a few free street parking spots on Diderik Sonoyweg – that’s the name of the road – nearby).
There is a direct bus from Amsterdam Central Station to Zaanse Schans that runs every 30 minutes and drops you off right at the entrance. It’s faster to take the train to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, however, and walk about a mile from there to the village.
Contributed by: Chris from Around The World With Me
8. Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace Amsterdam)
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday:10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Closed: Monday
The Royal Palace in Amsterdam (Koninklijk Paleis) was originally built in the 17th century as a city hall and was constructed on 13,659 wooden piles that were driven into the soft ground below. Today, the Royal Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands and serves as the official residence of King Willem-Alexander in Amsterdam and is open to the public for tours.
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is absolutely gorgeous, it doesn’t look very big compared to many of the other palaces in Europe. But its decoration, furnishings, and marble wall carving are simply stunning.
The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is the largest and most prestigious monument of the Dutch Golden Age, and many refer to it as “The Eighth Wonder of the World”.
The balcony is the most famous part of the palace as it was where King Alexander and Queen Maxima kissed.
Guests of the palace have included the Prime Minister of Great Britain, Winston Churchill, after the war, and even President Xi Jin Ping of China, and King Philippe of Belgium and his wife.
Together with the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), the Amsterdam Royal Palace is where the abdication and coronation of the current monarch of the Netherlands takes place.
The Palace is located in the middle of the capital near Dam Square, and it is open to visitors.
Opening hours: 10.00 – 17.00 (always check online, because hours can vary or it can be closed due to royal events)
Fun fact: Did you know that there are only 43 countries in the world that have monarchies? The Netherlands is one of 12 monarchies in Europe.
Contributed by: Alexa from 52 Perfect Days
9. Rijksmuseum
Opening Hours: Daily: 9:00 am -5:00 pm
Admission Fee: Adult: €20, under 18: Free, and I Amsterdam and Museumkaart cardholders get in free
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum in Amsterdam dedicated to Dutch art and history. Visitors to the Dutch capital city must include this iconic museum in their Amsterdam itinerary.
This Dutch treasure house sits in a renovated 19th-century building in Amsterdam’s Museumplein. Architect Pierre Cuypers, who designed Amsterdam Centraal Station, was chosen through a contest to create the massive museum to house several national and royal collections in one place. The neo-Gothic and Dutch Renaissance-style museum opened in 1885.
The Rijksmuseum holds many decorative titles as the country’s largest museum and one of the most-visited museums worldwide.
What’s more impressive is the museum’s permanent collection, including the Dutch Gold Age masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh. The exhibition of 8,000 artworks from the Middle Ages is spread over more than 200 rooms.
The crown jewel of the Rijksmuseum is The Night Watch (1642) by Rembrandt van Reign. There is usually a crowd in front of the life-size painting, so it is hard to miss it.
Other masterpieces you should not miss include The Milkmaid (1660) and The Little Street (1658) by Vermeer. Also, don’t miss The Threatened Swan by Jan Asselijn.
Besides the Dutch masterpiece paintings, check out the gorgeous Cuyper’s library with its extensive collection of books and research papers. Also, stroll the sculptor-studded gardens and the urban park featuring a water fountain.
The museum is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm. Admission costs €20 for adults and is free for those under 18. I Amsterdam and Museumkaart cardholders get in free.
Contributed by: Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue
10. Kasteel De Haar
Founded in the 13th century, Kasteel De Haar (De Haar Castle) is a medieval Palace and one of the most impressive landmarks in The Netherlands. This charming fortress is home to interesting exhibitions of original artefacts and luxurious state rooms with ornate décor, which were lovingly restored in 1892.
In the grounds, visitors can explore the immaculately sculpted gardens, which contain a network of ponds, canals, bridges and romantic vistas, as well as a Rose Garden and Roman Garden.
Kasteel De Haar is often likened to a fairy-tale castle due to its impressive towers, turrets, moats and a suspension bridge, making it a popular spot with photographers.
Once the private residence of the Van Zuylen van Nijevelt van de Haar family, whose descendants still visit annually, over the years the castle has hosted royalty and celebrities alike. As the largest castle in The Netherlands, De Haar Castle is a unique venue and regularly hosts seasonal fairs and events.
Kasteel De Haar is easily accesible from both Amsterdam and Utrecht, with the journey by car taking about half an hour each way. The site is also serviced by public transport, with the sprinter train stopping at the close-by Vleuten Station, and Bus 127 stopping a 15 minute walk from the entrance. Alternatively, day tours are available and can provide transportation, as well as a knowledgeable guide.
Contributed by: Lucy and Dan from Thoroughly Travel
11. Muiden Castle
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM most days
Admission Fee: € 17,50 for adults, € 10,00 for kids, and free with the IAmsterdam or Museumcard
The often overlooked town of Muiden, which lies just about a half hour outside of Amsterdam, is home to an exceptionally famous landmark in the Netherlands.
Muiderslot, more fondly known as Amsterdam Castle, is a medieval fortress that was deigned and built by Count Floris in the year 1280. The castle itself stands overlooking the Vecht canal and is a fantastic place to take a tour.
The entirety of the castle still stands- rare for a medieval structure! Two different routes, the Knights route or the Tower route, are available for an audio guide tour. These offer such helpful insights into stories about Muiderslot and what life was like back in the day. Both tours take you around the castle, exploring rooms like the courtyard, the kitchen, throne room, and bedroom.
However, the tower route, which is best for kids, takes visitors onto the ramparts and into the stunning towers situated around the castle. The views from here are amazing!
When you’re finished with the actual castle tour, take a walk across the moat (yes, there’s a MOAT!) and into the gardens. While there is also a a garden audio tour, just meandering around the rows of plants is a peaceful retreat inside the castle area.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, you should absolutely add Amsterdam castle to your Netherlands itinerary! Muiderslot is easily reachable from the city of Amsterdam via car, train, or even bike ride!
Contributed by: Taylor From Traverse With Taylor
12. Cube Houses
Famous for its unique tilted cube design, the cube houses of Rotterdam is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Netherlands.
Known as Kubuswoningen in Dutch, these quirky little houses are not only the must do bucket list attractions in Europe but are actually functional places, occupied by residents and businesses. You can wander around in the compound freely, taking in as many creative shots as you want!
For a small fee of €3, you can pop into one, aptly called the museum house, to get an idea of what it feels like living in such an odd space.
But do remember, avoid the tourist rush as it’s better to wait out the crowd as it can get a little stuffy inside the tiny haven. Inside, a set of narrow stairs will give you access to the upper floor which is especially interesting because of its sun trap design.
The tour is self-guided and rather a quick one as the sole focus is showcasing an alternative living space.
The array of 38 bright yellow-colored houses was built in 1984 by the Dutch architect Piet Blom. Getting here is easy as the place is 2 minutes from the Blaak subway station. The landmark is located across the Market Hall, from where you can grab something local to eat and drink.
Contributed by: Vidyut from Nomading Solo
13. Anne Frank House
One of the most important Amsterdam landmarks to visit during your trip to the Netherlands is the Anne Frank House. This museum is located in the annex where the celebrated diarist hid from the Nazis during World War II. Thoughtfully conducted guided tours lead thousands of visitors through each week, focusing on what it was like to hide for years along with the larger history of what happened to the Jews of the Netherlands during the Holocaust.
You must go on a guided tour, and tickets can only be reserved through the museum’s website. Order yours well in advance (aim for six weeks ahead), as tickets are limited and a stop here is on almost everyone’s Amsterdam itinerary.
Prepare to be moved, and it is not uncommon for entire tour groups to be in tears by the end of the experience.
While this is one of the most popular things to do in Amsterdam, there are a few groups that might look for alternative activities. Due to the nature of the space, it is not an accessible tour for those who have difficulty with stairs. The museum also recommends that parents traveling with children consider their emotional maturity before signing them up for the tour. Their recommended minimum age is ten, but ask you to use your discretion.
Contributed by: Stephanie from History Fangirl
14. Delta Works
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday:10:00 am – 4:00 pm , Saturday -Sunday: 11:00 am -5:00 pm
Admission Fee: Entrance to the Maeslantkering is €2.50, or €4.50 with a tour
The Delta works are a defensive system that protects the southwest of the Netherlands against high water from the sea. They are situated in the provinces of Zeeland, Zuid-Holland and Noord-Brabant. The Delta works consists of 6 dams, 5 storm flood barriers and 3 locks.
The 1953 watersnoodramp (North Sea Flood of 1953) was the breakthrough for building the Delta works. Due to a combination of high spring tide and a storm tide there was extensive flooding in the southwest of the Netherlands. Some 1836 people died due to this disaster.
The Delta Works were built from 1954 till 1997. These works placed the Netherlands on top in water management worldwide.
The Maeslantkering and the Oosterscheldekering are the most visited of the 14. The Oosterscheldekering is the largest storm flood barrier in the world. It was finished in 1986 and it consists of 65 pillars with 62 sliding doors in between. It’s 9 kilometers in length and there’s an accessible road going over it. With a hydraulic system the Oosterschelde can be closed off in 75 minutes. The Maeslantkering consists of 2 large arms that can close off the New Waterway.
Entrance to the Maeslantkering is €2.50, or €4.50 with a tour. Opening times are 10am till 4pm on weekdays and 11am till 5pm on the weekend. A visit to the Oosterscheldekering is included in the all-in ticket to Deltapark Neeltje Jans, which is €20.00. From April till October opening times are 10am-5pm.
Contributed by: Cosette from KarsTravels.
15. Amsterdam’s Red Light District
With the glow of red, neon-lit windows shining on beautiful canal waters, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the most famous landmarks in the Netherlands.
Known as De Wallen in Dutch, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the city’s most visited areas. Located in the center of town, this former medieval city center is best known for being home to some of Amsterdam’s more adult-focused attractions, including window prostitution, sex shops, and numerous coffeeshops (selling cannabis, not coffee).
While the Red Light District is most famous for its adult attractions, it is also home to some of the city’s most charming canals and bridges. At night, the glow of the red lights over the water makes for great photos that really capture the city’s atmosphere. One important thing to note: you should never take photos of the sex workers in the windows.
The neighborhood is also home to some unique museums, including the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution. There, you can learn more about the daily lives of the workers behind the windows.
The Red Light District is at its most atmospheric during the evening hours. Being one of Amsterdam’s most popular things to do, it is always crowded, especially after dark. Daytime visits to the District shouldn’t be skipped as the canals in the area are some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful.
Contributed by: Sydney from A World in Reach
16. Martinitoren
The Martinitoren is a symbol of the Dutch city of Groningen, standing tall at its center as a reflection of its rich history. Built in the late 14th Century, it is one of the oldest monuments in the city and one of the few remaining parts from that time. You should go to the Martinitoren because you can climb up 95m, and then you can see a great view of the whole city.
Visiting this historic structure is one of the best things to do in Groningen. While climbing to the top may require you to take some extra steps with 141 staircases total, the experience is absolutely worth it! Once at the top, be sure to marvel at all sites such as the Martini church right below and other surrounding structures.
To join the adventure, you’ll need to get a €6 / $6.45 coin from Groningen Store in Forum! When you make it up the nearly 300-step staircase, your efforts will be rewarded with an exceptional view. This breathtaking experience is available between 1 pm and 5 pm on weekdays, and 12 pm until 5 pm during weekends.
Important to know is that there is no elevator to take you up this monument, they do provide wheelchair access taking you all the way up.
Contributed by: Chyntia and Alexander from Travel your Memories
17. Dom Tower
One of the most important landmarks in the Netherlands is without a doubt the majestic Dom Tower.
Not only is the Dom Tower a historical and architectural treasure to the city of Utrecht, it also has the impressive title of being the tallest church tower in all of the Netherlands with its 112 meters height.
The Dom Tower’s foundation stone was laid in 1321, and it was finished in 1382, which means the tower is almost 700 years old. Over the centuries, the tower has survived many storms including the tornado in 1674 that destroyed many places in Utrecht.
Today, you can easily visit the Dom Tower during your trip to Utrecht. For €12,5 you can get a 1-hour guided tour in the tower. During this tour, you’ll visit the historical rooms inside of the Dom Tower and climb a total of 465 steps to the best viewpoint of Utrecht at the very top of the tower. There are a limited number of tours every day, and they run between 11 AM – 5 PM.
Visiting the Dom Tower is an absolute must if you find yourself in Utrecht. You’ll see the famous church tower from almost any angle in the city, and it’s a constant reminder of just how grand and important this building is. So, make sure to stop by on your trip to the Netherlands!
Please notice: Until 2024, the Dom Tower is undergoing a full restoration, which means there is a scaffolding placed around the building. However, they still run tours and you’re taken to an even higher viewpoint than normally.
Contributed by: Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers
