Dutch landscape with windmills

 

10 cool things to see and do in the Netherlands (that many people miss)

Living in the Netherlands as an au pair is about much more than daily life with your host family. It is also a chance to explore a country full of canals, windmills, bike rides, beach days and charming little towns.

Whether you want to tick off the classic Dutch highlights or discover places that feel a little more local, there is plenty to see during your time off. With a mix of classic highlights and local inspiration from our Dutch partner agency, here are 10 great things to do in the Netherlands as an au pair.

1. Take a canal cruise in Amsterdam

A canal cruise is one of the most classic things to do in the Netherlands. Seeing Amsterdam from the water gives you a completely different view of the city, with its narrow houses, bridges and busy canal life. It is a great first activity if you are new to the country and want an easy way to experience the city. It is also a lovely option when friends or family come to visit.

2. The Netherlands’ most famous windmills

If you want to see one of the most iconic symbols of the Netherlands, visit Zaanse Schans or Kinderdijk. 

Zaanse Schans offers a more lively and traditional Dutch experience, with windmills, wooden houses, clogs and cheese. Kinderdijk feels more open and scenic, with its historic windmills and strong connection to Dutch water management. Both are beautiful, and each gives you a slightly different side of the classic Dutch landscape.

3. See the Tulips in Spring

Spring in the Netherlands is something special. If you are there during tulip season, visiting the flower fields or Keukenhof is definitely worth adding to your bucket list. The bright colours, endless rows of flowers and fresh spring atmosphere make it one of the most iconic experiences in the country. It is also one of the best places to take beautiful photos and make memories from your au pair stay.

4. Visit Kasteel de Haar

For something a little more elegant and unexpected, visit Kasteel de Haar. It is the largest castle in the Netherlands and feels almost like something out of a fairytale. The castle itself is impressive, but the gardens are just as beautiful. This is a great place to go if you enjoy history, architecture or simply want to see another side of the Netherlands beyond canals and windmills.

5. Discover Rotterdam

Rotterdam shows a completely different side of the Netherlands. Instead of historic canal houses, you will find bold modern architecture, a creative atmosphere and a city that feels very different from Amsterdam. From the Cube Houses to the Markthal and the Erasmus Bridge, it is a great place to visit if you want to experience a more modern and energetic side of Dutch life.

6. Get lost at the three-country point in Vaals

If you want to do something a little different, head to Vaals in the south of the Netherlands. It is known for the Drielandenpunt, where the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium meet, and it is also home to a large maze attraction. It is a fun and unusual day out, especially if you are looking for something that feels a bit more adventurous than the usual sightseeing spots.

7. Spend a day in Giethoorn

Giethoorn is one of the most unique places to visit in the Netherlands. The village is famous for its canals, wooden bridges and boat tours, and much of its historic centre is shaped by waterways rather than roads. If you are looking for a peaceful and pretty day trip, this is a lovely option and feels very different from the bigger Dutch cities.

8. Visit Madurodam

Madurodam is a fun and very Dutch place to visit because it lets you see the country’s famous landmarks in miniature. It is more than just a miniature park, with interactive experiences that also help explain how the Netherlands works, including its infrastructure and water management. It is a good choice if you want something playful, different and easy to enjoy with friends or visiting family.

9. Looking for more ideas?

If you want to explore beyond the best-known highlights, there are plenty of other places worth adding to your au pair bucket list. You could visit the Delta Works to learn more about the Netherlands’ relationship with water, explore the ancient Hunebedden in Drenthe, spend a day by the sea in Scheveningen, climb the Dom Tower in Utrecht, browse De Bazaar in Beverwijk, or discover the charming towns of Friesland’s Eleven Cities.

10. Visit a Dutch market and try local favourites

A visit to a Dutch market is one of the best ways to experience everyday life in the Netherlands. Alongside the stalls and local atmosphere, it is also the perfect place to try some classic Dutch snacks. Go for a warm stroopwafel, sample bitterballen with mustard, or order a popular Dutch croquette. If you want to try something more traditional, herring is a classic choice. And of course, Dutch fries are always worth having too.
 

Looking for more inspiration?

Want to know what life in the Netherlands can really look like as an au pair?