Car Hire Netherlands - Mini guide to Netherlands

Known the world over for its liberal policies, the Dutch are non-the-less practical and sensible, making tourism easy. Windmills, clogs, tulips, dykes and canals, diary products red light districts and cannabis ‘coffee’ shops all attract the crowds.

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most charming cities, covered in canals and unusual architecture. Bicycles are the most practical way to explore the delightful lanes of this largely unchanged ancient city. It is however a cosmopolitan cultural melting pot, where tourist sometimes outnumber locals. The Damrak and Dam square attract the tourists, in part due to its proximity to the red light district. Liedse Plein and Rembrant Plein are the other two focal points. Wandering through the quieter Jordaan (Jewish quarter) is enchanting. Amsterdam has some fantastic museums (Van Gogh and Rijks), the famous Anne Frank house and several lovely churches. There’s certainly more to the city than the red light district and coffee shops.

The Hague is the seat of the Royalty and government, including stately mansions, palatial embassies and prestigious art galleries. Rotterdam is the world’s busiest port, very much The Netherlands’ modern, working class city, with unusual architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.

Maastricht, in the extreme south, is the country’s oldest significant settlement, dating from Roman times. Remains of the old fortifications are well preserved and add to the city’s appeal.