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Hidden gems in the Netherlands

We have selected fourteen cities that travellers often overlook, each a real hidden gem with a unique ambiance and charm. Whether you want to be immersed in history, prefer strolling along picturesque canals, or are looking for a bustling modern city with a raw edge, these fourteen destinations should be on your bucket list.
  1. Alkmaar

    Alkmaar is best known for its cheese market, which is the oldest cheese market in the Netherlands. However, Alkmaar has more to offer. With its lovely old city centre full of courtyards, canals and dozens of terraces you are guaranteed to be surprised.

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    Canal in Alkmaar
  2. Amersfoort

    Amersfoort truly is one of the biggest surprises of the Netherlands. With its attractive city centre it guarantees a great shopping experience, catering to everyone.

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  3. Arnhem

    Arnhem is best known as the site of one of the most infamous battles of World War 2. However, it is also known as a true fashion and design city with great shopping opportunities. But also as a green city as it has many inviting parks.

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  4. Breda

    Breda is a paradise for shoppers and foodies alike. It has one of the best city centres of the Netherlands, with plenty of cafes, trendy restaurants and excellent shopping. In Breda you can enjoy life against a gorgeous historical backdrop.

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  5. Delft

    Delft is not only a charming canal-ringed town with historical monuments and medieval architecture. It is also the city of the world-famous Delft Blue ceramics, and the birthplace of the ‘Master of Light’ Johannes Vermeer.

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  6. Den Bosch

    Den Bosch is one of the oldest medieval cities in the Netherlands. It is a city with a versatile city centre, with great restaurants and lively cafés, fun shopping streets and lots of beautiful monuments.

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  7. Eindhoven

    Eindhoven is famous for its innovative character, bustling with creativity and innovation in design and technology. Visit Eindhoven’s city centre for a great shopping and food experience or wander through Eindhoven’s technological past and future at the Strijp-S site.

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  8. Gouda

    Gouda is world famous for its cheese and syrup waffles. Take a tour along the beautiful canals, wander through narrow picturesque streets or check out the action at the Gouda cheese market.

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  9. Groningen

    Groningen is known for its student population, which makes it a vibrant city. You can feel the city's energy when walking through the centuries-old streets. With its great shopping districts and pedestrianised streets, Groningen is a winning alternative to Amsterdam.

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  10. Leeuwarden

    Leeuwarden is famous for its historic city centre, boasting over 600 monuments. A cultural hub with a laidback charm. Leeuwarden has exceptional restaurants and cozy cafes and has great a mixture of shopping areas and exiting nightlife.

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  11. Haarlem

    Explore Haarlem with its attractive city centre, countless museums, shops, restaurants and the beach around the corner. Haarlem is versatile, ranging from hidden courtyards to trendy concept stores and from medieval churches to excellent restaurants.

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  12. Leiden

    Step into Rembrandts footsteps and explore Leidens rich history. Stroll along its beautiful canals and the narrow streets of the old city centre. Or visit one of its many museums.

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  13. Nijmegen

    The oldest city of the Netherlands, but still young at heart. Nijmegen is great for shopping, with many authentic shops. Rather enjoy nature? On the outskirts of Nijmegen you can explore the beautiful nature reserve De Ooijpolder and Duffelt area.

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  14. Zwolle

    Zwolle is a dynamic Hansa town with an impressive history. Past and present go hand in hand here. While Zwolle is famous for its historic city centre. It is also known as a contemporary and green city, with many beautiful parks on its city grounds.

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