Netherlands

The low-lying Netherlands sits between the North Sea and Germany, dominated by polders, estuaries, reclaimed land and the large inland lake IJsselmeer. Coastal dunes, Wadden Islands and major ports like Rotterdam shape the landscape.

Temperate maritime weather means mild winters, cool summers, frequent drizzle and wind from the North Sea. Pack a waterproof shell, layers, and windproof cycling gear for coastal gusts near Texel or Wadden Sea islands.

Efficient trains from NS link cities; regional buses fill rural gaps. Long-distance travel is fast by Intercity, while bikes and ferries handle last-mile access to islands and waterfronts. Night trains require planning in advance.

Amsterdam for canals and museums, Rotterdam for bold architecture and ports, The Hague for diplomacy and seaside Scheveningen, Utrecht for compact medieval core, Maastricht for cobbled squares and Limburg cuisine. Each city has distinct rhythms and short travel times between them.

The country is made for bikes: dedicated lanes, numbered-route network, flat terrain and thousands of rental options. Try day rides along the coastal dunes or the LF long-distance routes; watch for tram tracks in city centers.

Canals, rivers and the Delta Works control water and offer routes for boat tours, sea ferries to the Wadden Sea islands, and recreational sailing on the IJsselmeer. Canal cruises are useful for quick orientation in Amsterdam.

Key protected areas: De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Biesbosch National Park, and island habitats at Texel. Expect shorebirds, barnacle goose (Branta leucopsis), common seal (Phoca vitulina), and occasional harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Trails are well marked; guided birding tours run in migration seasons.

Must-sees include Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Mauritshuis, the modern Markthal in Rotterdam and windmills at Kinderdijk. Buy timed tickets for top museums; early-morning visits reduce crowds.

Street markets and seasonal stalls serve herring, stroopwafels, poffertjes and regional cheeses. Visit Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam or Markthal in Rotterdam for fresh produce, fried snacks, and single-sitting meals.

Options range from canal-side guesthouses and converted barges in Amsterdam to design hotels in Rotterdam, seaside B&Bs on Texel, and countryside estates near Hoge Veluwe. Book canal houseboats early for spring weeks.

Low violent crime but pickpockets in crowded areas and bike-theft are common; use good locks. Respect cycling rules—cyclists have priority at many intersections. Watch tides and signs on the Wadden Sea; dunes, dikes and reclaimed land can be hazardous off marked paths.

The Netherlands rewards quick itineraries and slow explorations alike: fast trains, flawless cycling, rich museums, dynamic ports, and sensitive coastal ecosystems. Plan for weather, prebook busy museum slots, and let two wheels lead your route.