It’s summertime in the Netherlands, and the summer holiday season is in full swing! If you’re new to the Netherlands, you might be wondering where everyone is heading. Well, let’s dive into some of the popular summer holiday spots to soak up the sun this summer.
Popular Holiday Destinations Outside the Netherlands
The Netherlands is ideally located in proximity to a wide array of summer holiday destinations, from majestic mountains and serene lakes to picturesque coastlines and vibrant cities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on a sandy beach, adventure in the mountains, or cultural exploration in historic cities there is something for everyone.
Here are some Dutch-approved picks for summer travels:
- Spain
- Why Go: Spain remains a top holiday destination for residents of the Netherlands, offering beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural experiences. The diverse regions of Spain mean you can enjoy everything from the bustling city of Barcelona to the tranquil beaches of Costa del Sol.
- Top Spots: Barcelona, Madrid, Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza).
- Activities: Sunbathing on the beaches, exploring historic sites and enjoying Spanish cuisine.
- France
- Why Go: With its close proximity and diverse attractions, France is a favourite destination. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sunny beaches of the Côte d’Azur, France offers a wide variety of sunny experiences.
- Top Spots: Paris, Provence, Côte d’Azur, and Normandy.
- Activities: Sightseeing in Paris, wine tasting in Bordeaux, relaxing on the Mediterranean coast, and visiting charming French villages.
- Italy
- Why Go: Italy’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food make it a perfect summer holiday spot. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Rome or enjoying the scenic Amalfi Coast, Italy never disappoints.
- Top Spots: Rome, Florence, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast.
- Activities: Touring ancient ruins, exploring art museums, enjoying Italian cuisine, and cruising along the coast.
- Greece
- Why Go: Known for its beautiful islands and ancient history, Greece is ideal for a summer escape. Enjoy the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini or the vibrance of Mykonos.
- Top Spots: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
- Activities: Beach relaxation, exploring ancient ruins, island hopping, and tasting Greek delicacies.
- Portugal
- Why Go: Portugal offers affordable travel options with beautiful beaches, historic cities, and vibrant culture. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Lisbon or the golden beaches of the Algarve, Portugal is perfect even for budget-conscious travellers.
- Top Spots: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, and Madeira.
- Activities: Exploring coastal cities, wine tasting, enjoying Fado music, and surfing on the Atlantic coast.
- Croatia
- Why Go: Croatia’s stunning coastline and historic towns are perfect for a budget-friendly summer holiday. The crystal-clear waters and ancient cities like Dubrovnik provide an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.
- Top Spots: Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Plitvice Lakes National Park.
- Activities: Exploring medieval towns, sailing the Adriatic Sea, hiking in national parks, and enjoying local cuisine.
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Many seasoned locals also prefer traveling by car to enjoy a flexible and scenic journey. It’s not unusual to hear your Dutch colleague casually mention their planned 14-hour drive down to Saint-Tropez. Although the 25-hour drive to Sardinia for a three-week vacation sounds like part dream, part nightmare. If you fancy yourself an “it’s about the journey, not the destination” traveler, you’ll find yourself in good company. During the summer, you can join a convoy of Dutch caravans and campervans heading in every direction.
Summer Destinations Within the Netherlands
The Netherlands, while known for its picturesque cities and charming countryside, also boasts some fantastic summer spots perfect for day trips or getaways.
- The Wadden Islands
- Why Go: The Wadden Islands offer beautiful beaches, unique wildlife, and charming villages. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for a peaceful retreat close to home.
- Top Spots: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, and Schiermonnikoog.
- Activities: Beach activities, cycling, bird watching, and exploring quaint villages.
- The Veluwe
- Why Go: The Veluwe is a stunning natural area perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. Its diverse landscapes include forests, heathlands, and sand dunes, making it ideal for nature lovers.
- Activities: Hiking, cycling, visiting the Hoge Veluwe National Park, and exploring the Kröller-Müller Museum.
- Dutch Beaches
- Why Go: The Netherlands boasts a coastline stretching over 450 kilometers, offering several beautiful beaches. From the lively shores of Scheveningen to the serene beaches of Zandvoort there is plenty to enjoy.
- Top Spots: Scheveningen, Zandvoort, and Noordwijk aan Zee.
- Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, beach sports, and enjoying seaside cafes and restaurants.
Freedom to Travel with an EU Residence Permit
Having an EU residence permit gives you the freedom to travel across the Schengen Area with ease. The Schengen Area consists of different European countries where there are no border controls. This means you can explore numerous destinations without the need for additional visas or paperwork. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, your EU residence permit opens up a world of travel opportunities within Europe. For more information, visit the IND website.
The Dutch are experts at making the most of their summer, prioritizing time off work to enjoy the sunshine with their loved ones. Take a page from their book and consider it a must-do to enjoy your summer too!