If you’re looking for a fun and vibrant country to explore, look no further than the Netherlands. This small nation is packed with things to see and do, and it’s a great place to visit year-round. While the country might not be as big as other surrounding Europe destinations, there are still many that The Netherlands is famous for which makes it exciting for travelers.
What Is The Netherlands Famous For?
The Netherlands is home to some of the most beautiful windmills and canals in the world. It is also a great producer of many items from food products like cheese and beer to intricate design items like Delftware and Clogs. All of these form just a part of their fascinating culture, which also includes a vibrant sports and music scene, as well as interesting historical pasts. These make it an exciting and diverse travel destination.
From its vibrant and lively cities to its beautiful countryside, The Netherlands has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the other things that The Netherlands is famous for, be sure to add them to your trip.
Food The Netherlands Is Famous For
Dutch Cheese
The Netherlands is known for its delicious cheese, which comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors. Therefore, you will find that they are common additions to the Dutch breakfast spread.
Gouda, Edam, and Friesland are just some of the delicious types of cheese that come from the Netherlands. In fact, the Dutch produce more than 700 million pounds (317 million kilos) of cheese every year!
Edam is one of the most popular places for cheese and there is a cheese market that is a paradise for cheese fanatics. It opens every Wednesday in the summer months.
Nonetheless, you can find Dutch cheese in markets all over the country, as well as in many supermarkets. If you’re a fan of cheese, be sure to try some while you’re in the Netherlands.
Vlaamse Frieten (French Fries)
Belgium might lay claim to the invention of French fries, but the Dutch certainly know how to cook them! In the Netherlands, they are called ‘Vlaamse Frieten’ and are usually served with a variety of sauces.
One of the most popular sauces is mayonnaise, but other favorites include ketchup, satay sauce, and curry ketchup.
Vlaamse Frieten are usually served in a paper cone, making them the perfect snack to eat on the go. You’ll find them in most fast-food restaurants, as well as in many cafes and bars.
Stroopwafel
If you have a sweet tooth, then you’ll love stroopwafels! These delicious cookies are made from two thin waffles with a sticky syrup filling in the middle.
Stroopwafels originated in the city of Gouda and were originally only eaten by the wealthy. However, they soon became popular all over the Netherlands and are now enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
You can find stroopwafels in most supermarkets, as well as in many cafes and bakeries. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to find them in some of the tourist shops. This yummy gooey snack is definitely a weakness of mine and goes very well with coffee or tea.
It is one of the addictive Dutch desserts that you just can’t get enough of. So beware, because you might find yourself spending quite a bit on this.
Bitterballen
Bitterballen is a Dutch snack that consists of a ball of meat ragout covered in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. They are usually served with mustard for dipping and are the perfect snack to eat with a drink.
Bitterballen originates from the city of Rotterdam and is now popular all over the Netherlands. You’ll find them in most bars and cafes, as well as in many supermarkets.
If you’re feeling brave, you can even try making your own bitterballen at home! It is not actually that difficult.
Licorice
If you’re not a fan of licorice, the Netherlands is probably not the country for you! This intensely flavored sweet is extremely popular here and can be found in many different forms.
Drop is the most common type of Dutch licorice and comes in a variety of flavors, such as salmiak (salty), mint, aniseed, and fruit.
If you want to try something a little different, you can also find licorice ice cream, licorice chocolate, and even licorice beer.
Whatever your opinion on this divisive sweet, there’s no denying that the Netherlands is famous for it!
READ MORE: TRADITIONAL DUTCH FOOD IN THE NETHERLANDS TO TRY
History, Culture, And Traditions The Netherlands Is Known For
Tulips
Tulips are one of the most recognizable symbols of the Netherlands and they play an important role in Dutch culture. The flower was first introduced to the country in the 16th century and quickly became popular.
Tulips were so coveted that, at one point, a single tulip bulb could cost more than a house! This period is now known as ‘tulip mania.’ You can see why The Netherlands is famous for its tulips, with over 50% of the world’s tulips being grown in the country.
Nowadays, you can see tulips everywhere in the Netherlands, from public parks to private gardens. If you’re visiting in the spring, be sure to take a walk through one of the many tulip fields. You might even be able to pick your own bouquet!
Windmills
The Netherlands is famous for its windmills, with there being over 1,000 in the country. They are an iconic image of the Netherlands and can be seen in many different parts of the country. In the past, windmills were used to grind grain and pump water, but nowadays they are mostly used for tourist purposes.
The most famous windmill village is Kinderdijk, which is located in the province of South Holland. The village has 19 windmills that are still in use and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you’re interested in learning more about windmills, be sure to visit one of the many museums that are dedicated to them. You can even stay overnight in a windmill if you want a truly Dutch experience!
Beer and Beer Exports
The Netherlands is known for its delicious beer, with some of the most popular brands being Heineken, Grolsch, and Amstel. Dutch beer has a long history that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Nowadays, the Netherlands is one of the biggest exporters of beer in the world. Dutch beer is exported to countries all over the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
If you’re a beer drinker, be sure to try some while you’re in the Netherlands. You might even want to take a tour of one of the many breweries, like the Heineken Experience! The city of Groningen is also home to the biggest pub in Europe – The Drie Gezusters (Three Sisters) pub.
Delftware Ceramics
Delftware is a type of blue and white ceramic that originates from the city of Delft. The ceramics were first created in the 17th century and quickly became popular all over Europe.
Nowadays, Delftware is still produced in the city of Delft and can be found in many shops and museums. If you’re looking for a souvenir to take home, Delftware is a great choice, but make sure to pack them properly.
You can find all sorts of different Delftware, from plates and vases to figurines and jewelry. There’s sure to be something that catches your eye!
Coffee Shop Culture
The Netherlands is famous for its coffee shop culture, which is centered around the legal purchase and consumption of cannabis. What!!!?? Yes, coffee shops in The Netherlands do not mean cafes for coffee, so make sure you get your terminology right.
Coffee shops can be found all over the country and are popular with locals and tourists alike. If you’re interested in trying cannabis, be sure to do some research first. There are a few things you need to know, such as the fact that you can only purchase small amounts (5g or less) and you must be 18 or older.
Some coffee shops can also be a place to buy souvenirs, such as t-shirts and posters. Just make sure that you don’t take any cannabis products out of the country with you, as it is illegal to do so.
Koningsdag (King’s Day)
Koningsdag (King’s Day) is a national holiday in the Netherlands that is celebrated on April 27th. The holiday was originally called Queen’s Day, but was renamed when King Willem-Alexander ascended to the throne.
On Koningsdag, the whole country comes out to celebrate. There are street parties, parades, and music festivals. The cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht are especially lively on this day.
If you’re in the Netherlands on Koningsdag, make sure to join in on the fun! Wear orange (the national color) and enjoy the festivities.
Electronic Music and DJs
The Netherlands is known for its electronic music and DJs, with some of the most famous being Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Hardwell. The country has a long history of electronic music, dating back to the 1970s.
Nowadays, the Netherlands is home to many different festivals and clubs that cater to electronic music fans. If you’re interested in experiencing the Dutch nightlife, be sure to check out some of these events!
The Dutch are known for their love of electronic music and dancing. In fact, the country is home to some of the biggest dance festivals in the world, including Tomorrowland and ADE. If you’re looking to party, Amsterdam is the place to be!
Wooden Clogs
The Netherlands is also known for its clogs, which are wooden shoes that were traditionally worn by farmers and laborers. Nowadays, clogs are mostly worn for tourist purposes and can be found in many souvenir shops.
If you’re interested in buying a pair of clogs, make sure to get them fitted properly. Clogs come in all sorts of different sizes and shapes, so it’s important to find a pair that will fit you well.
You can also find clogs with different designs, such as those with traditional Dutch scenes or symbols. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even get a pair of clogs with LED lights!
Miffy
Miffy is a character that was created by Dutch author and illustrator Dick Bruna. The adorable cartoon is a small white rabbit that wears a blue dress and has a yellow star on her left ear.
Miffy books have been translated into over 50 languages and are popular with children all over the world. If you have young kids, be sure to pick up a Miffy book while you’re in the Netherlands.
You can also find Miffy souvenirs, such as plush toys, keychains, and magnets. These make great gifts for kids and adults alike!
Beautiful Canals
The Netherlands is known for its beautiful canals, which were built in the 17th century as a way to transport goods. Nowadays, they are used for leisure and tourism purposes.
Amsterdam is the most famous city for canals, with over 100km of canals that wind through the city. The canals are a popular spot for boat tours, and there are even restaurants and cafes located on the canals.
If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to take a canal tour in Amsterdam or one of the other cities with canals. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective!
Tall People
The Netherlands is known for its tall people, with the average Dutch person being 1.81m (5’11”) tall. The country even has a “tallest man in the world” title, which is currently held by Sultan Kösen from Turkey.
The Dutch are also known for their long legs, which is thought to be due to the fact that many people ride bikes. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to bring your camera so you can capture some photos of the tall Dutch people!
Sports The Netherlands Is Famous For
Soccer
The Netherlands national football team is one of the most successful in the world. They’ve reached the final of the World Cup three times and have won the European Championships twice. Affectionately known as the ‘Oranje’, the team is a source of great Dutch pride.
The Dutch team is also famous for its style of play, which is known as ‘total football’. This means that all players on the field are interchangeable, so anyone can play any position at any time.
If you’re visiting the Netherlands during the European Football Championships or the World Cup, you’ll see orange everywhere! The color has become synonymous with Dutch national pride and is often worn by supporters of the team.
Cycling
The Netherlands is also well-known for its love of cycling. In fact, it’s thought that there are more bikes than people in the country!
The Dutch love of cycling is due to the fact that it’s a great way to get around cities. Amsterdam, in particular, is very bicycle-friendly, with over 400 kilometers of bike lanes.
Early in the morning during rush hour, you can see tons of people biking to work. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, you can rent a bike and explore the country like a local!
Cities And Travel Destinations The Netherlands Is Famous For
The Netherlands is a small country with a big impact. From its art and architecture to its historic landmarks, the Netherlands has a lot to offer tourists. If you’re planning a trip to Holland, be sure to visit some of the places that the Netherlands is famous for.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city is known for its canals, museums, nightlife, and red-light district. This is so many things to do in Amsterdam that you can spend months there.
Amsterdam is also a great place to shop, with a wide variety of stores and markets. If you’re looking for Dutch souvenirs, be sure to visit the Albert Cuyp market, which is the largest market in Amsterdam.
No matter what you’re interested in, there are many things Amsterdam is known for that is worth checking out.!
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its modern architecture. The city was bombed during World War II, so many of the buildings are new.
If you’re interested in architecture, Rotterdam is a great place to visit. You can find a variety of different styles of architecture, from traditional Dutch buildings to modern skyscrapers.
The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which houses one of the largest collections of art in the Netherlands.
Whether you’re interested in architecture or art, Rotterdam is a great travel destination.
Utrecht
Utrecht is a city in the Netherlands that is known for its canals and churches. The city is home to several medieval buildings, as well as a large university.
Utrecht is a great place to visit especially if you are a fan of historic architecture. Widely considered the medieval center of the Netherlands, you can explore the historic buildings and learn about the city’s history on land or via the scenic city canals.
The Hague
The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands. The city is home to multiple governmental organizations, including the Dutch government, as well as the International Court of Justice. Most of these buildings also feature intricate architecture, making the city a blend of styles across time.
The Hague is a great place to visit to find out more about the politics and history of the country. You can learn about the Dutch government and see the buildings where important political decisions are made.
The Hague is also home to several museums, including the Mauritshuis, which houses a collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.
Famous People From The Netherlands
The Netherlands has produced many famous people, including artists, politicians, athletes, and more. Here are a few of the famous Dutch people that The Netherlands is known for.
Vincent Van Gogh
Vincent Van Gogh is considered one of the greatest painters of all time. He is best known for his distinctive style, which was heavily influenced by impressionism. His paintings are characterized by bright colors and expressive brushstrokes.
Many of Van Gogh’s paintings depict everyday scenes or landscapes. He was often inspired by the countryside around him. He also painted a number of self-portraits throughout his life.
Van Gogh’s work has had a lasting impact on the art world and he is considered one of the most important painters of the 19th century. His paintings are recognized worldwide and his work is displayed in museums all over the world. The most popular attraction to learn more about Van Gogh is the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam.
Rembrandt van Rijn
Rembrandt van Rijn was a 17th-century Dutch painter. His paintings are characterized by their realism and use of light and shadow.
Rembrandt’s most famous painting is “The Night Watch”, which depicts a group of soldiers in a nighttime scene. The painting is one of the most famous paintings in the world and is on display at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
Rembrandt was a highly influential artist and his work had a significant impact on the development of art in the Netherlands. He is one of the most famous Dutch painters even today. The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam is also where you can learn his story and see more works of art by this Dutch master.
Johan Cruijff
Johan Cruijff was a Dutch footballer who is widely considered one of the greatest playmakers of all time. He played for Ajax and Barcelona during his career and was a member of the Dutch national team that won the 1974 FIFA World Cup.
Cruijff was known for his speed, skill, and ability to score goals. The talented footballer won the highly converted Ballon d’Or 3 times in his career in 1971, 1973 ad 1974. He is one of the most famous and respected Dutch athletes.
To learn more about Johan Cruijff and Ajax FC history, a visit to the Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium will be an interesting experience.
Rene Descartes
Rene Descartes was a philosopher, mathematician, and scientist. He is best known for his philosophical work, which included the famous statement “Cogito, ergo sum” or “I think, therefore I am.”
Descartes’ work had a significant impact on the development of modern philosophy. His work also influenced other fields, such as mathematics and science.
Descartes was born in the Netherlands and spent most of his life there. He is considered one of the most important Dutch thinkers of the 17th century.
Architecture And Landmarks The Netherlands Is Famous For
To explore the country further, be sure to check out some of these landmarks that The Netherlands is famous for. The country is home to some world-renowned landmarks and museums, so there’s something for everyone.
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Netherlands. The museum is dedicated to the work of Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh and houses the largest collection of his work in the world.
The museum is located in Amsterdam and is easy to reach by public transport. If you’re a fan of van Gogh’s work, or even if you’re just interested in art, it’s definitely worth a visit. It is a widely popular museum so definitely get your ticket in advance.
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam. The museum houses a large collection of Dutch art, including works by Rembrandt van Rijn and Jan Vermeer.
The Rijksmuseum is in the Museumplein alongside the Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum. It is worth spending a day here, and you probably need even more time if you want to dive deeper into each museum.
Get the entry ticket beforehand to save of waiting time. Both of these top Amsterdam attractions are also included in the city passes that Amsterdam offers, like the iAmsterdam Card.
Keukenhof
The Dutch are known for their love of flowers, and Keukenhof is the perfect place to see this in action.
Keukenhof, also known as the Dutch tulip fields, is a must-visit for anyone who loves flowers. The park is located in Lisse, Netherlands, and is open for a few weeks each spring.
Keukenhof is the largest flower garden in the world and it’s a truly magical place. During the tulip season, the park is covered in a sea of colorful flowers. It’s definitely an unforgettable experience.
World’s First Stock Exchange
The Amsterdam Stock Exchange is the world’s first stock exchange and it was established in 1602. The exchange is now part of the Euronext stock exchange.
The Amsterdam Stock Exchange was founded by a group of Dutch merchants who wanted to create a place where they could trade stocks and bonds. The exchange played a very important role in the Dutch economy and it was a major financial center in Europe.
The Amsterdam Stock Exchange is still in operation today and it’s one of the largest stock exchanges in the world. Amsterdam is still an important financial center and the stock exchange is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Schiphol Airport
Schiphol Airport is the largest airport in the Netherlands and it’s one of the busiest airports in Europe. The airport is located just outside of Amsterdam, and it’s a major hub for European airlines.
Schiphol Airport is known for its excellent facilities and efficient operation. The airport has been consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world.
Schiphol Airport is also one of the busiest airports in Europe, handling over 60 million passengers each year.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is another popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam. The house is where Jewish diarist Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during the Second World War.
Nowadays, the house is a museum that tells the story of Anne Frank and her time in hiding. It’s a moving experience and one that will stay with you long after you leave.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Netherlands during the Second World War, be sure to visit the Anne Frank House.
Binnenhof
The Binnenhof is the seat of the Dutch parliament and it’s one of the most important political buildings in the Netherlands. The building is located in The Hague, and it’s a popular tourist attraction.
The Binnenhof has a long history, and it has been the seat of the Dutch parliament since 1446. The building is also home to the Dutch prime minister, and it’s one of the most important political buildings in the country.
Many More Things The Netherlands Is Known And Famous For
These are just a few of the things that the Netherlands is famous for. Whether you’re interested in trying some Dutch delicacies, exploring the country on two wheels, or dancing the night away, you’re sure to have a great time in this vibrant and welcoming nation.
With the Dutch’s rich culture and history, there’s something for everyone in this popular desitnation. You are bound to discover many more things that The Netherlands is famous for on your trip!
