Major Cities

A deeper look into The Netherlands

1. Drenthe
2. Flevoland
3. Friesland
4. Gelderland
5. Groningen
6. Limburg
7. North Brabant
8. North Holland
9. South Holland
10. Utrecht
11. Zeeland
12. Overijssel

In these 12 provinces, there are certain major cities that are most visited by tourists and have therefore become popular. We will give you a link to websites that can give you more detailed information about the below mentioned cities.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city of tolerance and diversity, with a population of around 750,000 people of myriad different ethnic groups and nationalities. The city is built around 165 canals, which provide not only a means of getting around but also living space for the large number of houseboats. Amsterdam is extremely cosmopolitan but is also fairly small, and is often described as having a village mentality.

Amsterdam’s key industries are tourism and finance, but there are an increasing number of new media and technology firms springing up in the city.
It is also world famous for its liberal, laissez faire attitude, which has led to the decriminalisation of cannabis and prostitution, both of which are regulated and taxed.

The city comes alive in the summer when the café terraces fill with tourists and locals alike, creating a buzzing and lively atmosphere. People flock to the Vondel park, cruise the canals on boats or ride around the city on their bicycles. Despite fairly wet and cold weather for much of the year, nothing seems to deter the throngs of tourists who come from all over the world to enjoy the city.

The best website to visit if you want further information is

Delft

Delft was granted a charter in 1246 and the original medieval structure of that period is still very recognisable in the old city centre. In the Golden Age, Delft was a wealthy merchant city, housing VOC (Dutch East India Company) chambers, and home to famous scientists and painters such as Johannes Vermeer.

Relive this glorious past as you wander along canals with their arched bridges, stately mansions, massive churches, silent courtyards and narrow alleyways. The intimate nature and the monumental buildings in various architectural styles have all been preserved with great care.

Delft is renowned all over the world as the city of Delft blue earthenware. This is based on an age-old history. In the 17th century, the 'Golden Age', dozens of small potteries arose in Delft in buildings which formerly accommodated breweries. Delft was one of the home ports of the Dutch East India Company. When the Delft potters became acquainted with the imported Chinese porcelain, they began manufacturing Delftware with designs based on these patterns, which is nowadays still made by hand.

Delft is also famous for its pleasant historical centre. There are fun shops, galleries, pubs and restaurants with outdoor terraces and pub boats. Why not view the city from a tour boat or horse-drawn tram? Also well worth a visit is the general market on the Markt, the colourful flower market and the flea market with bric-a-brac and antiques along the canals.

The best website to visit if you want further information is

The Hague

The Hague (or Den Haag or ’s Gravenhage) is the political capital of The Netherlands. Many people will probably associate The Hague with the Peace Palace and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

The Hague is a great place for a holiday. With its many swinging and cultural events is it a pleasure to visit The Hague, Scheveningen and Kijkduin any time of the year. And there is the coast, of course! So close to town, the wide beaches and the vast North Sea invite you to sunbathe or take an invigorating walk. In short, in The Hague you can enjoy yourself in many different ways.

The best website to visit if you want further information is

Maastricht

The southernmost and sunniest city in the Netherlands, Maastricht, is a wonderful fortified city of Roman origin set on the river Maas. The beautiful, unspoiled hillsides that surround Maastricht are home to famous vineyards and provide the opportunity for many interesting, relaxing and scenic outings.

In Maastricht lies the opportunity to enjoy the fine art of living to the fullest. Architecture and history aficionados will not be disappointed either. Maastricht has an abundancy of caves, tunnels, grottos, museums and basilicas that will provide many opportunities for fascinating excursions.

The best website to visit if you want further information is

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is thoroughly modern city in Holland. Located on the Maas River, it is the world’s largest port. The city offers adventuresome modern architecture and a charming culture. There is a richness in the number and diversity of attractions, festivals and museums. Rotterdam has a swinging, young city culture.

The city is famous not only for its mix of historic and modern buidlings, its harbour and the variety of cultures that live here, but it is also well-known for its shopping. Rotterdam has an abundant number of shops and boutiques that cater for all styles.

The best website to visit if you want further information is

If you are not sure what city to visit or want more information on the cities of The Netherlands than follow this link. It will give you a variety of information ranging from the "best deals" to accomodation.