It doesn't matter what city you will choose as a starting point of your travel, your vacation in the Netherlands will be equally interesting and diverse. In this country you will find ancient buildings, beautiful botanic gardens and newest entertainment centers.
When it comes to historic landmarks of the Netherlands, breath-taking medieval castles must be mentioned first. There is an interesting legend about Radbound Castle that was built in the 13th century in order to protect the border with Friesland. During several centuries the castle was an irreplaceable facility until a part of its towers and protective walls were destroyed in 1578. The stones obtained in such a way were used to build a sea dam. Muiderslot Castle was built in 1280 by the order of Count Florice V. In 1609, Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft became the owner of the castle and turned it into a venue for various theatre performances, concerts and balls. Once a severe fortress, Muiderslot Castle has turned into a luxurious palace. Nowadays, halls of the castle exhibit the collections of the State Museum. Travelers are also recommended to visit De Haar Castle, which original design is reminiscent of a traditional Bavarian palace. During its centuries-old history the castle was destroyed several times, but every time it was carefully restored afterwards. Nowadays, visitors are able to see the castle exactly the way it was restored by skilled masters of the 18th century.
Keukenhof or the Garden of Europe is one more place of interest in the Netherlands, which is well-known beyond the borders of the country. The park is particularly beautiful in spring, when more than 7 million of different flowers start blooming there. Tulips, sakura, hyacinths, narcissuses, roses, orchids, gerberas, lilies, azaleas and crocuses - you will find all these and many more flowers in the park. Every year skilled florists of Keukenhof design the park in a new way, so that every time it looks original and absolutely unforgettable.
Madurodam Interactive Miniature Park is a wonderful place, a visit to which will be interesting to both adults and children. This is a large open-air museum, where visitors will be able to see ancient windmills, the magnificent Palace of the World, Dam Square, the Royal Palace and many other interesting buildings. In addition to amazing architectural landmarks, there is a big cheese market in the territory of the park. Cheese makers from nearly all cities of the country come to the market to show off their best products, so even the most discerning cheese fans will be pleased. Travelers with the children will definitely fall in love with Efteling Theme Park, where they will meet characters from their favorite fairy tales, try different rides and attractions or watch a performance of the doll theatre.
Read further:
Cities and sights of Netherlands