The Netherlands, with its twelve provinces, enchants visitors with its charming canals, extensive cycling paths, iconic windmills, vibrant tulip fields, and bustling cities like Amsterdam and The Hague.
This article delves into the country’s rich history and picturesque landscapes, exploring unexpected delights such as quirky fast-food choices and the enduring popularity of clogs. From its Disney-like beauty to its intriguing events and cuisine, the Netherlands offers a tapestry of experiences that captivates travelers from around the world.
The renowned and adored bunny character, Miffy
Nijntje Knuffel, also known as Miffy, is a beloved fictional rabbit character originating from the Netherlands. Created in 1955 by Dick Bruna, Miffy has become an enduring figure in children’s literature, with numerous books, a movie, cartoons, and more.
Despite her European origins, Miffy enjoys widespread popularity globally and is recognized by many. While she may not have a prominent place in America’s cultural landscape, she remains an indisputable national and international icon.
Open-air urinals
Cultural norms vary worldwide, and what’s taboo in one place may be accepted elsewhere. For instance, in the United States, public urination is generally frowned upon, but in Amsterdam, outdoor urinals are not only tolerated but also seen as practical solutions to various issues.
These urinals have evolved over time and serve multiple purposes. They offer a free alternative to paid restroom facilities, especially in bars and restaurants, and help prevent public urination, which can be a hygiene and environmental concern. By providing accessible urinals, Amsterdam aims to promote cleanliness and discourage unsanitary practices like urinating in public spaces or canals.
Ice cream made with herring
When Robin Alting, an ice cream shop owner in Amsterdam, introduced Raw Herring Ice Cream, it made headlines across the Netherlands. While herring is a beloved delicacy in Dutch cuisine, the idea of combining it with sweet ice cream was met with uncertainty even among locals.
It’s certainly not a flavor you’d typically find at mainstream ice cream parlors. Raw Herring Ice Cream, as described by adventurous taste-testers, is a creamy concoction featuring a blend of sugar, cream, onion, and raw herring fish. Currently, Alting offers only samples of this unconventional creation rather than full servings.
A village dedicated to correctional facilities
While the Netherlands doesn’t experience the high incarceration rates seen in America, it still grapples with the challenge of housing individuals who have committed crimes. Veenhuizen, located in Drenthe, addresses this need uniquely.
Originally established in the 1800s as a housing colony for the impoverished and homeless, Veenhuizen transitioned into a penal colony at the turn of the century. Today, it is home to around 800 residents, the majority of whom are serving sentences for minor offenses like DUIs.
More than 1,000 windmills
For centuries, windmills have played a crucial role in draining water from the lowlands of the Netherlands, allowing farmers to cultivate the land. Today, the Netherlands still boasts around 1,000 windmills, with many of them remaining operational.
While modern companies focus on solar and electric energy, windmills continue to prove their value. Beyond their aesthetic and historical significance, these windmills serve essential functions for the surrounding countryside, showcasing their enduring importance in Dutch culture and agriculture.
Electric Ladyland: A museum dedicated to fluorescent art
In Amsterdam, Electric Ladyland is curated by Nick Paladino, an artist with a passion for fluorescent art. It stands as the world’s sole museum solely dedicated to fluorescent light. The museum transforms ordinary fluorescent lighting into a mesmerizing spectacle, illuminating homemade neon shapes that come to life in a psychedelic display when the blacklight is switched on.
Visitors are treated to an immersive and colorful experience, showcasing the majestic beauty of fluorescent light beyond its typical commercial usage in stores like Walmart and Target.
The largest gummy bear in the world
In the spring of 2023, Tanis Confectionery, a candy company based in the Netherlands, embarked on an ambitious project to create the world’s largest gummy bear. After assembling dedicated teams, the Dutch firm achieved its goal and secured a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The colossal gummy bear weighs an impressive 3,809.6 pounds and stands at a towering height of 6.5 x 6.5 feet. According to Tanis, this mega-bear is equivalent in size to 850,000 regular-sized gummy bears combined.
Self-Serve Fast Food Everywhere
If you’ve had the chance to explore the Netherlands, you might have come across FEBO. FEBO is a popular chain of self-service fast food restaurants where customers can order a variety of items like French fries, drinks, hamburgers, and more from large vending machines.
With sixty stores spread across the Netherlands, with over one-third located in Amsterdam, FEBO offers not only self-service fast food machines but also on-site automats where you can purchase traditional Dutch snacks like Kaassouffles, frikandellen, krokets, and more.
An expansive cheese market
During the summer months, the Alkmaar Cheese Market attracts throngs of visitors eager to sample a wide selection of delicious Dutch cheeses. The market season commences in late March and continues through September.
With roots tracing back to the 1600s, the Alkmaar Cheese Market gained prominence following the establishment of the Alkmaar Cheese Bearers’ Guild in the mid-1950s. This centuries-old market boasts an extensive array of vendors, products, and displays, showcasing everyone’s favorite dairy delight.
The Garden of Europe: The world’s largest flower garden
Lisse, a town in the Netherlands, regards Keukenhof as Europe’s most stunning botanical garden, a sentiment echoed by many after seeing its breathtaking pictures. Known as “The Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof Park is among the world’s largest flower gardens, covering 0.12 square miles.
Each year, the park’s managers plant an astounding seven million bulbs throughout the area. To fully appreciate the beauty of the garden, it’s recommended to spend two to four hours leisurely exploring and enjoying the vibrant blooms.
Enjoying chocolate spread on bread for breakfast
Hagelslag is a delightful culinary experience we’re eager to try. This Dutch treat involves layering butter on a slice of white bread and generously showering it with chocolate pieces, reminiscent of what we commonly refer to as “sprinkles.”
Widely enjoyed for breakfast in the Netherlands, this snack holds equal appeal for adults and children alike. Its sweet, buttery flavor profile has not only made it a beloved national favorite but also a cherished symbol of the country’s rich culinary tradition and heritage.
Navigating the city by boat
In contrast to the maze of roads found in many Western cities, it’s quite common to traverse Amsterdam by boat. The city’s canals, dating back to the Middle Ages when they were initially constructed for defense and water management, remain vital waterways today.
The three primary canals—Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht, and Herengracht—serve as conduits for both transportation and commerce. Amsterdam’s urban layout revolves around these canals, making it a frequent sight to see people navigating the city by boat. Renting a boat in Amsterdam typically ranges from $150 to $1,100 per day.
Clogs ubiquitous
The Netherlands is renowned globally for its exquisite craftsmanship in shoemaking. Dating back to the 1320s, Dutch clogs have remained a popular choice of traditional footwear. These iconic shoes are meticulously hand-carved and hand-painted with elaborate designs.
Originally crafted to shield artisans, farmers, and factory workers from potential foot damage, Dutch clogs have evolved into a ubiquitous symbol, cherished for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and water-resistant qualities.
The Netherlands boasts the highest per capita consumption of licorice
In the Netherlands, licorice holds a special place in the hearts of its people, and it’s not uncommon to find candy stores brimming with an extensive selection of this sweet delight, locally referred to as “drop.” Dutch licorice comes in a multitude of flavors and textures, catering to a wide range of preferences.
From chewy to minty, hard to soft, honey-infused to salty and sweet, licorice aficionados in the Netherlands are spoilt for choice. This deep-rooted love for licorice has earned the Netherlands the distinction of having the highest per capita consumption of licorice in the world. Consequently, licorice enthusiasts can indulge in their favorite treat with ease, knowing that there’s an abundance of options available to satisfy their cravings.
A diet renowned for its health benefits
Ranked number one on Oxfam’s Food Index, the Netherlands surpasses even Switzerland and France in terms of having the healthiest, most abundant, and affordable food. Despite the presence of tempting Dutch desserts and sweets, the Dutch maintain a healthy diet.
Expatica reports that the Netherlands also endeavors to promote its healthy eating habits globally, as it is the world’s second-largest exporter of vegetables. With a strong emphasis on consuming vegetables, the Dutch set an example for other countries, urging them to prioritize their nutritional intake.
The Museum of Torture
For those seeking a glimpse into the macabre, a visit to Amsterdam’s Torture Museum offers a chilling journey into a time when justice was meted out through gruesome means. This dimly lit museum houses a collection of artifacts detailing various methods of torture employed throughout history.
Visitors can witness ancient torture instruments firsthand, including a hanging cage, inquisition chair, and heretic fork—used not only to punish gossipers but also those accused of heresy.
The KattenKabinet, a museum dedicated to cat art
Following the loss of his cherished cat in 1990, Bob Meijer found solace in creating art. This led to the establishment of the KattenKabinet in Amsterdam, a unique museum dedicated to cats of every kind.
Located within a historic townhouse from 1667, the KattenKabinet offers a classical museum setting. Notably, Meijer’s personal touch includes the presence of his five cats, who freely roam the museum, adding an extra dimension to visitors’ experiences.
Micropia: A museum devoted to microbes
Launched in autumn 2014, Micropia is an Amsterdam museum dedicated to educating the public about microbes. While microbes can indeed be responsible for disease, they also play a vital role in human existence.
As such, Micropia has a dual focus: highlighting the benefits of microbes and discussing their harmful effects. This unique museum aims to foster a more nuanced understanding of microbes through a range of exhibits featuring living organisms, virtual representations, and informative displays.
Mountain of Books
Located in Spijkenisse, the remarkable architectural marvel known as Book Mountain was designed by MVRDV. This distinctive structure encompasses 9,300 square meters of reading material, staircases, and glass elements, culminating in an expansive open reading space at its summit.
Unlike traditional libraries characterized by cramped and gloomy interiors, Book Mountain defies convention with its modern design and spacious layout. With five stories bathed in natural light, the building symbolizes accessibility to literature and knowledge, regardless of one’s educational background.
Compact Stacked Houses Hotel
You probably haven’t come across a stacked hotel like this before, especially if you’re from the United States. Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam offers a modern interpretation of the Zaan region’s history by stacking traditional houses on top of each other to create the hotel’s structure.
Despite its traditional exterior, the hotel features contemporary interiors. Along with its rooms, Inntel Hotels also boasts amenities such as a swimming pool, Wellness Club, bar and restaurant named Puur Saen, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The Rotterdam Cube Houses
Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, the Cube Houses of Rotterdam stand as iconic symbols of innovative architecture in the Netherlands. These vibrant yellow cubes, tilted at intriguing angles, were conceptualized in the 1970s and completed a decade later, embodying Blom’s vision of creating a modern interpretation of “trees in a forest.”
Consisting of 39 apartments in total, the Cube Houses offer unconventional yet practical living spaces, characterized by their efficient use of interior layout and abundant natural light. As a testament to Rotterdam’s forward-thinking spirit, these unique structures continue to captivate and inspire visitors, showcasing the city’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural design and urban living.
The Dutch Venice
You may have come across Giethoorn Village, a picturesque retreat in the Netherlands often referred to as the “Venice” of the region. Unlike traditional towns, Giethoorn is devoid of cars, relying solely on its network of rivers for transportation. Visitors can explore the village by foot, boat, or bicycle, immersing themselves in its charming ambiance.
Each year, approximately one million people flock to the enchanting village of Giethoorn, attracted by its timeless charm and unique setting. Located just eighty-five minutes away from Amsterdam, Giethoorn has become a popular day trip destination for curious tourists seeking a Venetian-esque rural escape.
Boerenkool met Worst
Boerenkool met Worst holds a special place as a national dish of the Netherlands, cherished for its rich history and comforting flavors. Comprising mashed potatoes, kale, and sausage, this traditional Dutch meal is a quintessential example of hearty and wholesome cuisine.
Unlike the simple mashed potato side dish commonly enjoyed in the United States, Boerenkool met Worst reflects the Dutch preference for incorporating a variety of vegetables and meats into their dishes, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Renowned for its ability to warm the soul, this dish is particularly favored on cold winter nights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that epitomizes the essence of Dutch culinary tradition.
Sporting Orange on King’s Day
While the Dutch flag features red, white, and blue, the true national color of the Netherlands is orange. This is due to the historical significance of the House of Orange, members of which have been part of the Dutch Royal Family since 1544.
William of Orange, who inherited his title and estate at the age of eleven in 1544, played a significant role in shaping the nation’s identity. Therefore, on King’s Day, it is customary for everyone to wear orange as a tribute to the House of Orange.
The largest ice-skating tour globally
The Elfstedentocht, also known as the Eleven Cities Tour, stands as the largest and longest-distance ice skating event worldwide. Combining elements of both a leisurely tour and a competitive speed skating competition, participants traverse 120 miles of natural ice.
While 300 contestants vie for victory in the speed skating competition, countless others join in the leisure tour. Held in Friesland in the Northern Netherlands since 1909, the event faces the threat of cancellation due to climate change. Over the past fifty years, it has only been held three times, with the most recent occurrence taking place in 1997.
The Dutch are credited with the popularization of orange carrots.
Carrots were predominantly white, purple, or yellow until the 17th century when the Netherlands played a pivotal role in popularizing the orange variety. As a major exporter of carrots, Dutch farmers made the decision to change the hue of their carrots to honor William of Orange, who led the Netherlands’ fight for independence.
Since the 1500s, the House of Orange has held power, and the vibrant orange hue became synonymous with their legacy. Over time, the original non-orange varieties of carrots were gradually phased out in favor of the now-iconic orange ones.
Home births account for approximately 1 in 8 births.
While home births are uncommon and often discouraged in the United States and England, they remain prevalent in the Netherlands, where approximately one in eight babies is born at home. This rate is among the highest in the developed world.
However, there has been a decline in home births in the Netherlands over the years, with one-third of women opting for home births in the 1990s. This decline is attributed to a growing demand for pain relief options such as epidurals, which cannot be administered during home births.
The Cuypers Library
Known as the Cuypers Library, this stunning and surreal repository is filled with thousands of books. Renowned for housing the largest collection of art history books in the Netherlands, the library boasts colorful volumes that illuminate under the natural sunlight streaming through its windows.
Visitors can ascend spiral metal staircases to explore the diverse selection of books on offer. Located within the renowned Rijksmuseum of Amsterdam, the library is a hidden gem that is not frequently crowded with tourists.
The Celestial Vault
The Celestial Vault, an art installation and optical illusion, is situated in The Hague. Beyond being a showcase of modern landscaping, this intriguing site doubles as a de facto Druid altar. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the skies and heavens in a novel manner.
Constructed in the 1990s within a massive crater, the Celestial Vault invites visitors to recline in its center, providing them with a fresh perspective on the sky above their heads.
Guillotine Cheese Slicer
Looking for a distinctive Dutch gift for the cheese enthusiast in your life? Consider the Guillotine Cheese Slicer, available in Amsterdam for approximately $24. You can find these slicers at Reypenaer Kaas Proeflokaal, where they are uniquely designed for slicing Dutch Gouda cheese, rather than for 1700s French Royals.
Dutch Gouda is a beloved cheese in the Netherlands, crafted from cow’s milk. Young Dutch Gouda varieties are creamy and soft, while aged varieties are firmer with a sharper, tangier flavor.
Diesel and gas cars will be phased out by 2030.
Depending on your stance on fossil fuels, you may either welcome or feel apprehensive about this development. By 2030, as part of a National Climate Agreement, the Dutch Government aims to slash the country’s emissions by nearly half.
A key component of this strategy is the prohibition of new diesel and gas cars by the specified year. Instead, all newly manufactured vehicles will be emissions-free, running on battery power rather than fossil fuels. Thanks to the Netherlands’ implementation of advantageous tax incentives for electric vehicles, sales of Tesla cars have soared and are expected to continue rising.
Bike freely without helmets.
In the Netherlands, sustainable practices abound, with cycling being the most prominent. Dutch citizens pedal their way everywhere, whether it’s to a business meeting, a romantic evening out, or a leisurely picnic. What sets them apart is their preference for classic, old-fashioned bicycles over the latest models.
While cycling is common in many countries, what distinguishes the Dutch is their aversion to helmets. Despite safety concerns, helmets are rarely worn, and those who do don them are often regarded with curiosity. This unique aspect of Dutch culture reflects their unwavering commitment to cycling as a way of life, even at the expense of safety precautions.
Celebrate birthdays with fervor.
Dutch birthdays, often dismissed as dull affairs, actually have their own unique charm. While the customary tea, coffee, and cake are standard fare, it’s the ritual surrounding the celebration that sets them apart. Guests gather in a complete circle around the birthday honoree, creating an almost cult-like ambiance.
The choice of birthday songs may sound mysterious to outsiders, especially to those unfamiliar with Dutch, but there’s no cause for alarm. What may seem like an unusual custom is simply a joyful and communal celebration of another trip around the sun.
Indulge in salty licorice.
The Netherlands proudly boasts the highest licorice consumption per capita globally. Dutch people are known for their serious appreciation of candy, although their licorice is a unique twist—it’s generously salted! You might be puzzled by the combination of salt and candy, but it’s a cultural preference that only the Dutch truly understand.
So, if a Dutch friend offers you candy, approach with caution. If you have a taste for salty treats, dive right in. However, if salted candy isn’t your thing, a polite decline might spare you from a surprising flavor experience. It’s all part of the salty-sweet adventure in Dutch confectionery culture.
Experience upscale camping.
Camping in the Netherlands is a far cry from the minimalist approach often seen in the USA and elsewhere. Dutch campers prefer to enjoy the great outdoors in style, complete with all the latest luxury amenities. Picture a camping experience with a fully equipped kitchen, indoor plumbing, heating, a washing machine, and even a home entertainment system.
For the Dutch, connecting with nature doesn’t mean sacrificing modern comforts. Instead, it’s about enjoying the best of both worlds. This lavish camping vacation may surprise Americans accustomed to more rustic camping experiences, but there’s much to be learned from the Dutch approach to outdoor leisure.
