The Netherlands, also spelled Holland, is a country in northwest Europe. It is bounded to the east by Germany, to the south by Belgium, and to the north and west by the North Sea. The country has a population of more than 17 million people and an area of about 41,500 square kilometers. The Netherlands is famous for its windmills, tulip fields, and lively cities. Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Some interesting facts about Netherlands
- The Netherlands is a major exporter of flowers, particularly tulips, around the world. Every year, more than 3 billion tulip bulbs are produced in the country and exported to over 100 countries worldwide.
- The Dutch are well-known for their passion for cycling. In fact, the Netherlands has more bicycles than people, with approximately 23 million bicycles in the country.
- The Netherlands is the world’s largest cheese exporter. Every year, the country produces over 650 million kilograms of cheese, the most famous of which is Gouda.
- The Netherlands is a major exporter of flowers, particularly tulips, around the world. Every year, more than 3 billion tulip bulbs are produced in the country and exported to over 100 countries worldwide.
- The Dutch are well-known for their passion for cycling. In fact, the Netherlands has more bicycles than people, with approximately 23 million bicycles in the country.
- The Netherlands is the world’s largest cheese exporter. Every year, the country produces over 650 million kilograms of cheese, the most famous of which is Gouda.
- Windmills are another thing the Dutch are famous for. There were once over 10,000 windmills in the Netherlands. Although many have been replaced by modern technology, some still exist and serve as a source of inspiration.
- Rotterdam, the world’s largest port, is located in the Netherlands. The port handles over 12 million containers per year and serves as an important trade hub between Europe and Asia.
- The Dutch are well-known for their fondness for herring. Raw herring is a traditional dish, usually served with onions and pickles.
Â

When is the best time to visit Netherlands?
The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and precipitation all year. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) on average. The seasons are mild in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), with cooler temperatures and more rain. Temperatures range from -1°C to 6°C (30°F to 43°F) during the winter (December to February).
Crowds: The summer months (June to August) are the busiest for tourists in the Netherlands, as the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the busiest season, with more people and longer lines at popular tourist attractions. If you prefer a more tranquil atmosphere, visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when crowds are thinner but the weather is still pleasant.
Tulip season: From mid-March to mid-May, the Netherlands is famous for its tulip fields. Plan your trip during this time to see the tulips in full bloom. The Keukenhof Gardens, near Amsterdam, are also open during this period and are a popular destination for tulip enthusiasts.
Festivals and events: Throughout the year, the Netherlands hosts numerous festivals and events, such as King’s Day (April 27), the Amsterdam Light Festival (December to January), and the Rotterdam Marathon (April). Plan your trip accordingly if you want to attend one of these events.

Things to Know before visiting Netherlands?
- Language: Although Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, many people also speak English. In fact, English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country, so communicating with locals should be simple.
- The euro (€) is the currency of the Netherlands. Banks, exchange offices, and ATMs are widely available throughout the country and can be used to exchange currency.
- Transportation: The Netherlands has an extensive public transportation network that includes trains, buses, trams, and metros. Tickets can be purchased at train stations, ticket machines, or online. Bicycles are another popular mode of transportation, and they can be rented at many bike rental shops across the country.
- Tipping is not required in the Netherlands because service charges are usually included in the price. However, in restaurants or cafes, it is customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) for good service.
- Smoking is prohibited in public places such as restaurants, bars, and cafes. You may smoke outside, but please be considerate of those around you.
- The Netherlands is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1) in the Central European Time (CET) timezone. The country also observes daylight saving time, so the timezone is UTC+2 during the summer months.
- Weather: The weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, so plan on rain and cooler temperatures even during the summer. Bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
- Safety: Although the Netherlands is a safe country to visit, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes. Dial 112. To contact emergency services.

What is the best gift from Netherlands
- The Netherlands is well-known for its cheese, particularly Gouda and Edam. Cheeses are available at markets and specialty shops across the country.
- Dutch clogs: “Klompen,” or wooden clogs, are a traditional Dutch footwear that make a fun and unique gift. They can be found in souvenir shops and markets across the country.
- Stroopwafels are a popular Dutch treat made of two thin waffles sandwiched by a layer of caramel. They make a tasty and easy-to-pack gift.
- Delftware is a type of blue and white pottery popular in the Netherlands. Delftware items such as plates, vases, and tiles can be found in specialty shops and markets across the country.
- Jenever, also known as Dutch gin, is a traditional Dutch drink that has been made for over 400 years. It makes a unique and tasty gift for gin enthusiasts.
- Dutch chocolate: The Netherlands has a long history of chocolate production, and a wide range of high-quality chocolate products can be found in specialty shops and markets across the country.
- Dutch art: The Netherlands has a rich art history, and prints, posters, and other art-related products can be found in museums and specialty shops all over the country.
Things to Do in Netherlands
The Netherlands has a diverse range of activities and attractions, from exploring vibrant cities to discovering the natural beauty of the countryside. The following are some of the best things to do in the Netherlands:
- Visit Amsterdam: With its beautiful canals, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam is a must-see destination.
- Explore the Dutch countryside: The Netherlands is well-known for its picturesque countryside, which includes charming windmills, colorful tulip fields, and charming villages. Exploring the countryside by bike or boat is the best way to do so.
- Visit the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, which are home to more than 7 million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers. From late March to mid-May, they are open to the public.
- Discover Dutch art and culture: The Netherlands is the birthplace of some of the world’s most famous artists, including Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt. Their works can be seen at museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
- Beaches: The Netherlands has a long coastline with beautiful beaches like Scheveningen and Zandvoort. They are popular swimming, sunbathing, and water sports destinations.
- Visit Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Rotterdam, which features 19 windmills built in the 18th century to pump water out of the low-lying land.
- Visit the Maastricht Underground Caves: Located in the city of Maastricht, these underground caves were used as a shelter during WWII and now offer guided tours.
- Discover Dutch cuisine: The Netherlands has a distinct and delicious cuisine, with specialties such as raw herring, stroopwafels, and bitterballen. These dishes are available in local restaurants and markets.
- These are just a few of the many activities available in the Netherlands. There’s something for everyone in this city, whether you’re interested in art and culture, outdoor activities, or simply taking in the local atmosphere.