The Netherlands, especially Amsterdam, enthralls travelers in their 20s with laid-back canals, vibrant nightlife, and a liberal social scene. Many rave about the city’s cycling culture, lively bars, and museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Outside the capital, university towns such as Utrecht and Leiden offer authentic local vibes. Coffee shops and festivals add to the country’s youthful appeal, as do easy day trips to see windmills and tulip fields. Backpackers appreciate the country’s walkability and efficient train network, which makes short journeys simple. Overall, the Netherlands ranks high for inclusive attitudes and a welcoming environment that feels both modern and quaint.

History of The Netherlands

The Netherlands traces its history to prehistoric tribes in the low-lying deltas, a landscape that demanded innovative water management techniques even in ancient times. By the Roman era, the region was part of the Empire’s northern frontier, dotted with forts along the Rhine. During the Middle Ages, various feudal states emerged, including Holland, Utrecht, and Gelderland, often under the nominal control of the Holy Roman Empire. In the 16th century, the Low Countries fell under the rule of the Habsburgs, eventually passing to the Spanish branch. Religious tensions and high taxation prompted the Dutch Revolt (1568–1648), leading to the formation of the Dutch Republic, also known as the United Provinces. This ushered in the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, where seafaring prowess, global trade, and cultural achievements flourished. Icons like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and the philosopher Spinoza rose to prominence, while the Dutch East India Company (VOC) became one of the world’s earliest multinational corporations. The 18th and 19th centuries saw periods of French occupation under Napoleon, which ended with the establishment of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. In the 20th century, the country endured the trauma of Nazi occupation during World War II, with figures like Anne Frank symbolizing resilience. Post-war recovery spurred economic growth and a reputation for social liberalism. Today, the Netherlands is globally recognized for its blend of historic canal cities, progressive policies, and a tradition of cooperative governance, reflecting a storied past shaped by commerce, conflict, and creativity.

Diving into The Netherlands's Nature

The Netherlands is renowned for its meticulously managed landscapes, where human ingenuity has reclaimed land from the sea through dikes, canals, and polders. Large swaths of the country lie below sea level, protected by an advanced system of waterworks—evident in places like Flevoland, the world’s largest artificial island. The iconic Dutch countryside often features endless fields of tulips and other flowers, especially in spring when the region around Keukenhof bursts into vibrant color. Windmills, historically used to pump water, remain a hallmark of the landscape, with the Kinderdijk area boasting a UNESCO-listed cluster of well-preserved mills. The Wadden Sea along the northern coast is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for mudflat walking and a rich array of birds, seals, and other marine life. Meanwhile, the Veluwe region in the east offers heathlands and woodlands where deer, wild boar, and rare birds can be spotted. The Delta Works in the southwest, a sophisticated flood protection project, also offers scenic vistas of estuaries and wetlands. Even urban areas such as Amsterdam and Utrecht intertwine with nature through historic canals, tree-lined avenues, and waterfowl making their homes along the waterways. Whether by bike or boat, exploring the Netherlands means embracing a harmonious blend of water, fields, and sky, showcasing how centuries of innovation and respect for the environment have sculpted a distinctive national landscape.

Voyista's The Netherlands Tour Experience

Through multiple trips across the Netherlands, Voyista has discovered much more than Amsterdam’s canals and museums—we’ve pedaled through windmill-dotted countryside, wandered colorful tulip fields, and explored lesser-known coastal villages. Whether you want to dive into the Van Gogh Museum’s treasures or attend a local cheese market, our custom itineraries balance city bustle with tranquil enclaves. We connect you to the vibrant Dutch culture, from its progressive social scene to the perennial charm of flower markets. Traveling with Voyista ensures you enjoy efficient train travel, cozy cafes, and hidden gems that make the Netherlands such a refreshing European getaway.