The Netherlands offers a wide range of activities from cycling and camping adventures, to more leisurely explorations, such as walking tours and boat rides, with plenty of cobblestone streets to explore, as well as the city squares for people watching.
The cities, towns and villages of the Netherlands are packed with historic sites and places of interest, with frequent transportation links making it easy to see plenty in a single day. The pace of life in the Netherlands is generally very laidback, making for a stress-free trip, with a coffee shop or pancake house never far away.
Locally known as "Haagse Mart," The Hague Market is the largest outdoor market in Europe. Located on Herman Coster street, this is perfect for gift buying, exploring local crafts or simply experiencing an authentic slice of Dutch life. There’s little you won’t find among the many colorful stalls, with an estimated 25,000 daily visitors. The market is open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Play a round of golf at one of the 65 splendid courses open to tourists. The Netherlands has 50 public courses and 10 hotels with golfing packages, leaving you with yet another excuse to soak up the atmosphere of the Dutch countryside.
Explore the stunning Jordaan district of Amsterdam on foot, along the two and a half kilometers of pleasant pathways. Jordaan is best described as the Old Town with beautiful stretches of canal, cobblestone streets, warm, friendly taverns and cafés, and a collection of classical 17th and 18th century architecture.
Cycling is an extremely popular hobby in the Netherlands, and many locals use bikes as their main form of transporatation. For a true cycling adventure, the Netherlands has over 17,000 km (10,600 miles) of designated bicycle tails with predominantly flat terrain, making it the perfect place for long distance cycling. Mike’s Bike Tours offers daily rentals and guided tours of both the city and the countryside.
Amsterdam is home to a network of canals and waterways, as well as a fascinating harbor area, and there is no better way to explore than on a glass boat tour, or onboard the city’s Museum Boat, which runs between many of the major cultural attractions. Trips can be booked through Water Taxi Tours.
Take a cheesy walk around the historic city of Gouda, home of the beloved dairy delicacy. Visit the many local landmarks, including the Weighhouse Museum, and see the art of cheese making at its very best. For a copy of the "cheese map" visit http:// www.vvvgouda.nl.