The Netherlands is an extraordinary country. Visited by nearly 18 million people every year, it’s the perfect place for an interrailing adventure because of its fascinating history, beautiful scenery and welcoming residents.
If you’re planning on interrailing in the Netherlands, then it’s a good idea to create a list of the top places to see. However, with 100’s of cities to choose from, it might be tough to decide which make the cut.
To give you some inspiration, here is a list of the top 5 places you should visit during your Netherlands interrailing trip:
The Hague
Starting off this list is the fabulous city of The Hague. Known as being the hub of the Dutch parliament, it’s just under 5 hours on the train from London St Pancras.
Beloved for its beautiful Gothic architecture, picturesque palaces (such as the Peace Palace) and home to many famous artists, it’s the ultimate first stop on your trip! Spend your time here walking around the Madurodam, at the Duinrell amusement park or enjoying the views of the North Sea from Scheveningen Pier.
For food, if you’re feeling fancy head out for a night of fine dining at Portfolio restaurant. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, then the stylish Zebedeus is a great choice every time. When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of cheap and cheerful options from the central Holiday Inn Express in Parliament Square to the popular hostel, Hostel The Hague.
Amsterdam
We couldn’t have an interrailing list without mentioning the fabulous city of Amsterdam. Less than one hour on the train from The Hague, the capital city of the Netherlands is perhaps the most visited and popular city in the entire country.
Known for its breath-taking canals, winding streets, exciting culture and bustling nightlife, it definitely should be on your list of the top 5 places to interrail in the Netherlands.
When staying in Amsterdam, head over to the Rijksmuseum to enjoy works of art by famous artists like Rembrandt, explore the beautiful streets on a bike ride, wander through Vondelpark or see hundreds of fascinating animals at Artis – Amsterdam’s zoo! The list is endless when it comes to what you can see and do there.
When you get peckish, there are so many places to choose from. Even though it does have its fair share of fancy restaurants (MOON anyone?), for those looking for a more wallet-friendly option, Wok to Walk is always popular, as is the traditional and extraordinary FEBO.
For accommodation, as it is so popular with tourists, there are also plenty of places to select from, including a host of stylish hostels in the centre – like the Flying Pig Hostel and Stayokay Amsterdam Oost.
Utrecht
40 minutes from Amsterdam lies the captivatingly beautiful Utrecht. A city that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, it’s abundant with wonderful sights to see during your interrailing trip there. From Dom Tower to Castle De Haar (pictured above) and Centraal Museum, you’ll be spoiled for choice in this rich city of culture.
Like Amsterdam, Utrecht is known for its unique canal system, which is why in pictures people often get them confused. However, Utrecht is a unique city of its own blending historic architecture with modern amenities.
When you are looking for a bite to eat, it also has a combination of super-stylish and relaxed restaurants. Our two pics are the cosy Twintig and the friendly Frietwinkel. For accommodation, there is something for all budgets, from the beautiful BUNK Hotel Utrecht to Inntel Hotels Utrecht Centre.
Rotterdam
Less than 40 minutes on the train from Utrecht is the ultra-modern city of Rotterdam. Another favourite amongst interrailers, this quirky and bustling city looks worlds away from the small 13th-Century fishing village it once was. With several districts spread across the city and an abundance of attractions, there won’t be a dull moment during your interrailing trip here.
For example, you could head over to the Cube Houses and be in awe at the awe-inspiring design of them, take in the city views from the Euromast or view European art from the likes of Dali to Rembrandt at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.
Food-wise, there are plenty of lively restaurants and cafes to pick from, including Cafe in the City and Termaschco. Likewise, there are hostels and hotels galore including CityHub Rotterdam and Hotel Rotterdam.
Maastricht
Although Maastricht is over 2 hours on the train from Rotterdam, it’s well worth the visit. Situated in the south, it’s home to the Basilica of Saint Servatius, the Bonnefantenmuseum and Vrijthof amongst other unique and historic attractions. It also has a bustling town square and is host to many annual festivals.
Due to its popularity with tourists and residents alike, there is a large variety of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from. But two that stand out due to their stylish decor and delicious menu is Restaurant Mandalin and Oak 34. You’ll be pleased to know that for accommodation, it’s far more affordable than other more visited cities, with options like The Student Hotel Maastricht and Stayokay Maastricht costing less than €70 a night.
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