Destinations / Netherlands / Amsterdam, Central and South Holland
Few landscapes in Europe offer such ideal conditions for exploring from behind the helm as the central and southern Netherlands. A country characterised by fine cheeses, tulips of many colours and windmills, it also boasts a dense network of canals. Thanks to these, you'll not only see picturesque towns breathing with history on the boat, but also the tranquil Dutch countryside that quickly throws you into a state of relaxation. But if you're looking for something a little more action-packed on your holiday, head to the land of the clogs when one of the world's famous events is taking place. The fun will be taken care of!
Tip
The area, which is literally crisscrossed with navigable canals, offers a variety of routes of varying lengths. You can choose according to both your points of interest and your experience. While the centre of the Netherlands can be enjoyed by beginners as well as seasoned sailors, we would not recommend sailing south for skippers with less experience.
A museum at every turn
If you're cruising the Netherlands, whether you want to or not, you can't avoid the capital. But don't worry about Amsterdam, you'll enjoy the metropolis. It's a great place for shopping enthusiasts and those who prefer more unusual activities. One of the typical experiences that every visitor should take away from Sin City is not just a stroll through the Red Light District or a smoke in one of the many coffeeshops. Amsterdam is also a place that is known for its important museums. Did you know that it is even the city with the highest density of museums in the world? You can choose from over 60 locations and countless exhibits. For us, we recommend the famous Rijksmuseum with the richest collection of Dutch art from the 15th to the 19th. The Van Gogh Museum, which focuses on the works of one of the greatest figures of Dutch history, and the Anne Frank House, which commemorates the story of a Jewish girl in World War II. But apart from that, you can also go to unusual museums such as the Sexmuseum, the Hashish and Marijuana Museum and the Museum of Prostitution.
Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam
Celebrations that make it worth picking up anchors
The central and southern Netherlands are inviting to visit all year round, but at certain times of the year you won't find it any more fun than usual. In fact, the country plays host to events that make the streets of its picturesque towns a little more lively. The most sought-after tourist attractions are undoubtedly the floral corsages. Who doesn't like the breathtaking processions of allegorical floats decorated with flowers and accompanied by bands of musicians? Flower lovers must also visit the so-called Garden of Europe, as Keukenhof Park is often nicknamed. Europe's largest flower park is only open from March to May and offers its visitors mainly a spectacle in the form of crocuses, daffodils and tulips. Other spectacular experiences, albeit from a completely different barrel, are offered by two major celebrations that are characterised by a bit of wacky fun - April's Koninginnedag and August's Gay Pride.
Recreation with everything
If you'd like to switch off for a while on your trip and enjoy a typical holiday where your only concern is where to go for lunch, head to the famous Loosdrechtse lakes. Thousands of Dutch people head to this area every year to relax by one of the seven lakes, which offer the perfect amenities for all holidaymakers. There are pleasant beaches, children's playgrounds, public barbecues and restaurants. Of course, there are also a variety of activities for all sportsmen. In addition, you won't miss the rich nightlife at the lakes, which easily rivals that of Amsterdam.
Where else but Holland on a houseboat! Let's pick one for you.
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Cruises for 3–5 days | Cruises for a week | Cruises for 10–14 days