Five Things you HAVE to do when visiting The Netherlands
Just hearing about the The Netherlands creates lovely images of windmills, wooden shoes, and waves of tulip fields. The Netherlands is all of these things and more. Its ultra-liberal way of life reflected in its architecture, cosmopolitan mix of European culture, and careful preservation of its past makes it like no other place in Europe. If you really want to absorb the essence of the Dutch experience, you must do these five things to get the most out of your Dutch experience.
The Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam
The Anne Frank Huis recreates Anne Frank’s life living in hiding in a small room with her family. In this moving display of hope, optimism and love of life, one can really connect to the quiet desperation that was Anne Frank’s existence in a world gone mad. Her diary is on display in a glass case, lonely, forever existing in the past with only hopes for the future. The Netherlands has experienced its share of invasions throughout history and the Anne Frank Huis shows the hope of one little girl at the tail end of a long history of invasions and wars against the Dutch. It is a moving introduction that will make one appreciate the peace and prosperity the Dutch now enjoy.
The Anne Frank Huis is situated in the Western belt of Amsterdam at Prinsengracht 267, Amsterdam. You can reach it by tram or bus.
Rotterdam
The Museum Bojimans van Beuningen For a collection of some of the finest art in Europe, visit the Museum Bojimans van Beuningen. This striking collection of fine art includes the works of Van Gogh, Bruegel the Elder and Rembrandt. They even have exhibits of remarkable architectural contributions. One section of the museum features the evolution of everyday household items from centuries past till now. The building itself looks neat and tidy, with a dash of futuristic design. The museum is another great way to get to know the Netherlands where it has been, where it is now, and where it is going.
The Museum Bojimans van Beuningen is located at Museumpark 18-20 3015 CX in Rotterdam. You can reach it by tram or subway.
Utrecht City
The Domtoren (Cathedral Tower) Utrecht City is the oldest city in the Netherlands. One fabulous remnant of Utrecht City’s long history is The Domtoren, or the Cathedral Tower that overlooks the city. In the 1400s, the tower was one of the tallest towers in Europe. However, it was never completely finished due to a lack of funding and in the 1600s, was damaged by a severe storm. Nowadays, it stands above Utrecht City as a stunning display of architecture. People can even get married in this tower, and many do. To get to the top is quite a hike, but well worth it. The views of Utrecht City are a great reward for a steep climb.
Groningen City - The University City
If you want a contrast to the traditional Dutch sights, then then the ultra-liberal college town of Groningen City is the place to go. Groningen City boasts the youngest population in the Netherlands. The reason for this is the large population of students that attend the Hanzehogeschool and University. Though one will encounter their share of brainiacs at this campus, there is no absence of a vibrant nightlife. One highlight of the nightlife is that there is no set closing time, so you can chat over drinks with your new Dutch friends until the sun comes up.
Groningen City is located in Northern Holland. The best way to get there is by train.
Maastricht
The Cave Tours of Sint Pietersberg Hill Maastricht lies tucked away in the very southern portion of the Netherlands - a mosaic of European culture and architecture. Fort St. Pieter stands as a silent sentinel to the centuries of wars from which it has protected countless people. Built by the Romans, St. Pietersberg Hill is famous for not only what one can see on the surface, but also for what cannot be seen. Under the fort are over 20,000 tunnels. The mining industry originally created these tunnels, but they also served as shelters to protect civilians from outside invasions
including World War II. The tunnels bear testament to the whispers of the past. Artists left inscriptions in the walls some of which date back hundreds of years. Maastricht was a strategic location along the Meuse River. Therefore, foreign invaders constantly attacked the city. As a result, the residents of Maastricht worked tirelessly to maintain the fort, moat, and walls. Be warned, most tours are in Dutch unless you call ahead. The caves are accessible via bus number 29.
The Netherlands is truly a wonderful jewel in the crown of Europe. Visiting this wonderful country will never be a disappointment - especially after visiting these top five sites of The Netherlands!