Spotlight on: The Netherlands, beyond Amsterdam

You’ve braved the tourist-strewn cycle paths, clambered aboard a boat tour, and just about managed to snap a shot of Sunflowers above the crowds at the Van Gogh Museum. Now what?

In a bid to showcase the rich diversity of the Netherlands, Byway has partnered with the NBTC (Netherlands Board of Tourism and Conventions). Not only do they know where to grab the best stroopwafel, they're also experts on the Netherlands away from the beaten path – spoiler: there’s more to it than Amsterdam.

Why The Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a country of vibrant colours and diverse natural and urban landscapes. A country of pink tulip fields, green city parks and Delft Blue pottery – not to mention the home and inspiration of Van Gogh, one of the greatest masters of colour. But the Netherlands isn’t just pretty. It’s also functional. Effortlessly efficient. Trains that run like clockwork, expertly designed cycle paths, and boat services to nearby islands so serene you won’t find a single car.

Colourful, diverse and well-connected – it begs the question: why do so many stick to the confines of the capital? Perhaps we’ve been led to think that Amsterdam ‘has it all’. Sure, Amsterdam might be known for Van Gogh, canals and café culture, but it doesn’t hold a monopoly on them. And it definitely won’t offer you dune-fringed beaches, tulip fields or woodland walking. So buckle up for a dose of Dutch highlights, and prepare to discover the Netherlands, beyond Amsterdam.

For canals: Delft

Delft (from the Dutch word ‘delven’ meaning ‘dig’) was built around a functional network of canals. Today, Delft’s canals are unusual in that the water level sits just below the street level, creating a striking mirror reflecting the buildings and trees that line the water. With a tranquil car-free centre, there’s no better way to explore than by kayak. Be sure to stop off for a waterside drink in Bierhuis De Klomp, the oldest bar in Delft. [see trip]

For café culture: Utrecht

With cafés where locals outnumber tourists, Utrecht will leave you with a taste of authentic Dutch culture. Speciality coffee lovers can get their caffeine fix by following the ‘Utrecht Coffee Safari’, a map curated by the city’s trailblazing roasteries and baristas. And for those with a sweet tooth? Head to the Saturday market at the Janskerkhof and follow the smell of hot butter and syrup for the best stroopwafel. [see trip]

For shopping: Breda

To the shopaholics feeling the guilt of fast fashion: there’s another way. Discover the sustainable shopping scene of Breda, a hub of vintage treasure troves and green upstarts. Heavily shaped by its artistic history, Breda’s indy shopping scene is a product of its enduring creative spirit and its drive for innovation. There’s a real sense of artistry in the boutiques of  St. Annastraat; don't miss the Green Submarine plant shop, and for something a bit different, a trip to the Algorithmic Perfumery (where you can make your own bespoke scent). [see trip]

Harriet Matthews

For island hopping: Wadden Islands

Who said you had to go to Greece for Island hopping? The Wadden Islands are part of the Frisian Archipelago, a chain of wildlife-rich islands stretching from the Netherlands to Denmark. Hop from the mainland onto the islands of Texel, Vlieland and Terschelling for spontaneous sea dips, dune-jumping and sunsets from the top deck of the ferry. [see trip]

For Van Gogh: Nuenen

Van Gogh’s work takes on a totally different guise when you can *literally* walk in his footsteps and see the subjects of his work in real life. You’ll feel privy to a secret as you uncover the quiet magic of Nuenen. Trace the walking trail that will lead you through peaceful woodland, meadows and valleys dotted with buildings and monuments related to Van Gogh’s life. From April 2023, the newly renovated Vincentre will reopen its doors to allow visitors to get up close to original works. [see trip]

Visit Brabant

For tulip fields: not Keukenhof!

Tulips? In the Netherlands? Admittedly not very groundbreaking. But there’s a way to do it that doesn’t involve battling through swathes of tourists just to get that Instagram snap (like everyone else). Skip Keukenhof, and instead try Hillegom, with your base in Haarlem (be sure to pop into the beautiful Windmill de Adriaan). With such smooth terrain, there’s no better way to admire the Bollenstreek (tulip growing region) than from the saddle of a Dutch bicycle. [see trip]

Claire Droppert/NBTC