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The Netherlands

If you've never visited the Netherlands, jump on a train to it this instant! A country of canals, cycling and charming Dutch culture, the Netherlands is an incredible destination for any trip. Take that Amsterdam weekend one stop further with this bucket list, and see all this perfect country has to share. 

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Take a boat around Giethoorn

 

Giethoorn is one of those places where you have to blink twice, to make sure it's real. Nicknamed 'Dutch Venice', this village of waterways holds a special kind of magic. Join a canal cruise or hire a canoe to explore this charming paradise. Try not to fall in!

 

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Join Amsterdam Pride

 

It's never a bad time to visit Amsterdam, but to really get a sense of this city's culture, go during July and August to participate in the Pride festival. As one of the best celebrations of gay pride around the world, it's an amazing experience for all. Watch the spectacular Canal Parade and participate in many of the events and workshops taking place around the city. Are you ready to go?

 

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Paint pottery in Delft

 

As the birthplace of the iconic blue Delftware pottery, your visit to this charming Dutch town wouldn't be complete without a hands-on pottery experience. Visit the Royal Blue Delft factory to find out how the pottery is made, before sitting down to paint your very own Delft tile in that perfect shade of blue. 

 

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Kayak in Utrecht

 

Utrecht is the older sister of Amsterdam that people often forget. Head to this stunning city for a spot of kayaking along the Oudegracht, before grabbing a drink at one of the wharfside bars. 

 

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See the tulips at Keukenhof

 

The Netherlands are famous for their tulips, so it's only fitting you see them in their finest setting. Head to Keukenhof Gardens in April and May to see over 7 million flowers blooming, and you'll never forget it. Make sure to combine your visit with a tour around the flower fields themselves, to discover the significance of the tulip in the country. 

 

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Visit the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam

 

There are many sights to see in Amsterdam, but one of the most important is the Anne Frank House. Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl forced into hiding with her family during WWII and is now globally-known due to her diary. Housed in the same building where they hid, the museum tells the story of Anne's experience and is an essential place to visit to learn about the Holocaust. 

 

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Visit de Hoge Veluwe National Park 

 

De Hoge Veluwe National Park is the largest nature reserve in the Netherlands, with nearly 14,000 acres of land. Borrow one of the park's white bikes and zip around the area, exploring woodland, fields and sand dunes. 

 

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Climb the Dom Tower, Utrecht 

 

 It's hard to miss the Dom Tower when you visit Utrecht, and you shouldn't miss the chance to climb it, either. As the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, this beautiful piece of architecture provides stunning views across the city. 

 

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Rent a bike

 

If you visit the Netherlands, the first thing you should do is find out how to hire a bike, because you're going to need it. Seriously. This is by far the best way of getting around and exploring both cities and countryside. After a few days, you'll feel like a local! 

 

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Eat a stroopwafel, Gouda

 

There are so many delicious Dutch treats to try, but if we had to pick one, it would be the stroopwafel. Two thin layers of waffle, sandwiched together with syrup or caramel. You can buy these treats in any supermarket, but why not try a fresh one from the market in Gouda, the stroopwafel's birthplace? And we warn you now - once you've had one, you'll be begging for more...

Tick off more experiences...

 

There's so much more to see and do in Europe by train! Read on to discover the ultimate Interrail experiences in the next country (from A-Z), or go back to the homepage to choose one for yourself.

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Find your perfect Pass

Not sure which Pass would suit you? Check out our most popular Passes here.

 

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Travel by train 

With so much to tick off your bucket list, you need a fast, sustainable and comfortable way to travel. Here's why travelling by train should be your next adventure.