10 bucket list activities and locations in the Netherlands

Many people have a bucket list full of the very biggest dreams: traveling the world, jumping out of a plane, climbing Mount Everest, or other adventures that make your blood run cold. But did you know that the Netherlands has so many special places and experiences that you can also make a full bucket list of things you want to have done and seen in your own country?

You don’t have to go abroad at all. Some of the most beautiful and unforgettable moments can be found close to home. In this blog we share 10 must-do activities and locations in the Netherlands that you should definitely visit once. All of them are equally special!

1. 1. Watching a sunrise in Giethoorn
   2. Hiking or biking the Elfstedentocht
   3. Camping under the stars in National Park De Hoge Veluwe
   4. A day out to the Kinderdijk
   5. Visiting the Zaanse Schans
   6. Sunrise or sunset on the Afsluitdijk
   7. Kayaking in the Biesbosch
   8. Going to a concert or festival in Amsterdam
   9. Cycling and picnicking in the Green Heart
   10. Discovering the Wadden Islands

Watching a sunrise in Giethoorn

Giethoorn, also called the “Venice of the North,” is a fairytale village in Overijssel where you can reach most places only by boat or bicycle. Imagine: no cars, only water, small bridges and old farmhouses.

But do you really want an unforgettable experience? Go there in the early morning when the sun is rising. It is quiet, misty and almost magical. Rent a boat, a canoe or go out by bike. Definitely a bucket list moment!

Hiking or biking the Elfstedentocht

The Elfstedentocht is a legendary 200 km skating tour of eleven Frisian cities – Leeuwarden, Sneek, IJlst, Sloten, Stavoren, Harlingen, Franeker, Dokkum, Assen, Bolsward and Workum. The last time this Elfstedentocht was run was back in 1997. After all, you need well-frozen waters for this. But you can bike or walk large parts of this route year-round. Do it in stages, enjoy the Frisian landscape and experience why this tour is so legendary.

Stargazing at the Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Hoge Veluwe is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Netherlands. But do you want to make it really special? Spend the night in one of the Finnish bungalows or forest cottages at vacation park De Roek. at night you can actually see the starry sky here, something impossible in many larger cities. Make sure you have chosen a clear night, bring a star chart and let yourself be enchanted by the infinity of the universe. Pure magic!

A day out to Kinderdijk

Kinderdijk is known for its 19 traditional Dutch windmills dating back to the 18th century. It is perhaps the most “Dutch” you can imagine, and it is therefore a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk past the windmills, take beautiful photos, enjoy the water and hop in one of the boats for a tour. You suddenly understand why the Netherlands is fascinated with water management. A must-do for every Dutchman!

Visiting the Zaanse Schans

Like Kinderdijk, the Zaanse Schans is an authentic Dutch heritage village where you go back in time. With traditional houses, working mills, artisans and historic workshops, you really feel like you’re in the old Netherlands. Taste fresh cheese, watch clogs being made, and understand how the Netherlands earned its gold for centuries. This is Dutch culture in its purest form!

Sunrise or sunset on the Afsluitdijk

The Afsluitdijk is more than just a road – it is an incredibly impressive structure separating the IJsselmeer from the Wadden Sea. Go there at sunrise or sunset and walk across it. On both sides you can see water all the way to the horizon, and at quiet moments it feels almost surreal. This is Dutch engineering art that you really have to see!

Kayaking in the Biesbosch

The Biesbosch is a unique polder and bird paradise where you can kayak among willows and reed beds. This nature reserve is the heart of river nature in the Netherlands. Rent a kayak and paddle around among the birds, fish and plants. It feels like a private adventure in nature and you are only an hour from Rotterdam or The Hague! Perfect for those who love peace and adventure.

Cycling and picnicking in the Green Heart

The Green Heart is literally the green heart of the Netherlands. An area full of polders, meadows, windmills and villages around Utrecht, Amsterdam and Rotterdam. It is ideal for walking, cycling and picnics. Rent bikes, pack a basket full of goodies, and discover small villages, rustic farmhouses and stunning views. This is the real Holland, green, flat and peaceful.

Attending a concert or festival in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is not only known for its canals and bicycles. The city is also a global music center. The biggest stars from all over the world perform here at the ArenA and Ziggo Dome. Whether you go to Paradiso, Melkweg, or one of the many other venues, or you want to visit a festival like the Amsterdam Dance Event, there is always something to do.

Discovering the Wadden Islands

The Wadden Islands are a unique experience: islands off the northern Dutch coast with beautiful beaches, dunes and Wadden nature. Go to Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling or Ameland and experience island life. Walk along deserted beaches, bird-watching huts, cycle through island landscapes, and enjoy fresh fish in small restaurants. Each island has its own character, discover them all!

Credits photos: Canva.com