11 Most Charming & Beautiful Villages in Netherlands

A quaint country that sits between Germany and Belgium is famous for Amsterdam, canals, windmills, and tulip fields. However, to truly get the most out of the country, you need to visit traditional Dutch villages in Netherlands that will make you feel closer to the country. 

Filled with so many beautiful places to explore that are rich in history and arts, the country boasts many charming villages by the sea featuring tulip fields and towering windmills that will make you feel like you’re in a children’s storybook. 

To truly take in the country’s beauty, seeing these beautiful villages must be on your list – if you have much time to spare. Even if you have a short time to spend in the country, make it a point to visit at least a village or two because you are in for a beautiful experience. 

These villages are perfect for day trips and even longer stays. So, what are you waiting for? Put one of these villages in your itinerary and explore the Netherlands. It will be worth your while, and you will be able to appreciate more what the Dutch have to offer. No wonder it is one of the most scenic countries in Europe. 

This is a guest post by Ask The Dutch Guy, your go-to guide for The Netherlands. Ask The Dutch Guy aims to showcase The Netherlands’ beauty and inspire others to explore the country.

Kinderdijk

Besides the tulip fields, Amsterdam, and the canals, the Netherlands is famous for its windmills. If you want to see windmills in action set against a lush green setting with bodies of water, Kinderdijk is the place to go. 

Considered one of the most scenic villages in the Netherlands, Kinderdijk is near the city of Rotterdam. The town still has 19 windmills built between 1739 and 1740. They look beautiful, but these windmills do more than that. 

Built to prevent floods, they have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1997, keeping the village and nearby areas safe. Two of them are open to the public, and if you want to know more about how water is managed, you can visit a visitor center in the area. 

Giethoorn

Giethoorn is the Venice of the North. Indeed, it is one of the most beautiful villages in the country, as the thatched-roof farmhouses sit on canals. The houses here are all connected by bridges, making the town something like it came out of a fairytale book. 

There are zero roads in the old quarter of the village, which means that boats are the only way to travel in this part. Also, the town is far different from Venice because it’s very peaceful. The scenery of beautiful cottages and well-tended gardens is noticeable. 

You can take a boat, explore the city, or wander foot through the bridges. Don’t worry; you won’t get tired because there are cute cafes to stop by should you need a break from walking. Or if you don’t like to walk, rent a bike and explore the city the Dutch way. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Giethoorn.

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Zaanse Schans

One of the most visited villages in Netherlands is also famous for historic windmills and houses. At some point, the town had over 500 windmills along its canals. Some are already gone, while others were restored and relocated and are now in working condition.

There are five mills to visit – and you can even climb them. Each of the windmills has a unique character that you will truly appreciate. 

Aside from the windmills, there are seven museums to visit. One of the most exciting attractions is a 17th-century bakery where you can still get fresh bread. You will also find the first branch of Albert Heijn, a Dutch supermarket chain that is always open to the public. 

Valkenburg

Take a step back in time and see the charming village of Valkenburg. Find beautiful and historic architecture that is a remnant of the city walls and gates. While you’re here, check out the Gothic church of Saint Nicolas. 

Do you like castles? Even if you don’t, you’ll appreciate the ruins of it located on a hill above the town. This is also why it’s the highest castle ruin in the whole country. 

There are also tunnels and caves to explore. Some are artificial, which makes them an even more exciting attraction. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Valkenburg.

Lisse

Lisse is a small town that is famous for the Keukenhof Gardens. If you’re in the country to see the tulip fields, watch out for the influx of tourists in spring. During the springtime, the tulips are in full bloom, and when the flower parade, the Bollenstreek Bloemencorso, occurs. Check out this tour with a ticket and transfer to visit the tulip fields from Amsterdam.

Remember: the gardens are only open for several weeks, from March to mid-May. So, if you come when they’re not open, don’t worry; that’s not all Lisse offers. 

The Keukenhof Castle is a sight to behold and is open to the public all year. Another attraction to explore is the Museum De Zwarte Tulip, where you can learn more about tulips’ history. Also, don’t miss the Sint Agathakerk, a huge roman catholic church with a beautiful interior with magnificent paintings. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Lisse.

Harlingen

Are you thinking of hitting the beach in the Netherlands? Then you should check out the town of Harlingen. Harlingen is on the shores of the Wadden Sea in the country’s north. It’s famous for its fishing industry. 

Take in the stunning pieces of architecture, and watch the boats sail from town to sea. There is a nice port along with canal lines to explore. Make sure to explore the Harlingen lighthouse as well, which is the village’s most iconic landmark. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Harlingen.

Appingedam

Appingedam holds a unique history. The village still has a few medieval buildings to admire and small alleys you can go through. One of the town’s attractions is the hanging kitchens at the Damsterdiep. Indeed, a visit to Appingedam will help you dive deeper into the Dutch’s rich culture. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Appingedam.

Domburg

Located in the north sea, Domburg is one of the oldest seaside villages in Netherland. Yes, it’s a small town, but you will undoubtedly have an exciting time. Of course, the main attraction is the beach, and during the summer, it sees a lot of tourists flocking in. 

The center is worth exploring because there are many cafes and even go to a spa. You can also visit the windmill Weltevreden. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Domburg.

Volendam

Volendam is a village near Amsterdam, which is a finishing village. Stroll through the old town and explore the many pathways and bridges, which will take you to beautiful Dutch houses. The town also has three museums to visit. 

Another place to check out is the area that lines the harbor, where you will find many restaurants, shops, and many more. Although Volendam will give you that touristy feel, it’s worth visiting as it’s one of the most beautiful villages in Netherlands.

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Volendam.

Naarden

Naarden is one of the most preserved fortified towns in the whole of Europe. It is located on a six-pointed star design and is surrounded by greenery and a moat. From afar, you can already appreciate the appeal of the town. 

Pay a visit to the St. Vitus Church at the heart of the village. Explore the old town hall as well, where you see traditional Dutch buildings that feature intricate brickwork. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Naarden.

Marken

Indeed, there are many scenic villages in the Netherlands, and one of them is Marken. The town is isolated from the mainland, so the houses are built on stilts. In the peninsula, you will find a small center crossed by multiple canals, and along them are wooden houses built on stilts. What makes them very special is that you can’t find this type of architecture anywhere else in the world. So, savor it!

You will also find a small marina for fishing boats, fish restaurants, and small stalls selling quick bites. Before you leave the village, make sure you visit the lighthouse, too. It’s something you should experience while here. 

Want to stay? Find the best hotels in Marken.

The Netherlands is diverse, with beautiful countryside and medieval villages you won’t see anywhere else. To truly take in the country’s beauty, seeing these beautiful villages must be on your list – if you have much time to spare. Even if you have a short time to spend in the country, make it a point to visit at least a village or two because you are in for a beautiful experience. 

These villages are perfect for day trips and even longer stays. So, what are you waiting for? Put one of these villages in your itinerary and explore the Netherlands. It will be worth your while, and you will be able to appreciate more what the Dutch have to offer. No wonder it is one of the most scenic countries in Europe. 

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