Dutch highlights & North
Sea air

Düsseldorf

Dusseldorf is one of Germany's economic hubs, with a densely
populated city centre housing about 600,000 people. The city is
lively, with a love of music and culture that is hard to resist.
Dusseldorf is famous for its trade and fashion fairs and attracts
visitors from all over the world to these big and exciting events.
Streets like Bolkerstraße, Ratinger Straße and Kurze Straße are
alive with entertainment in the evenings. Those looking for an
authentic drink can sample the locally-produced Altbier (meaning
old-style beer) for which Dusseldorf is known.

Much of Dusseldorf was destroyed in World War II. The city is
therefore not as scenic as others in Germany despite its ancient
history, the first mention of which dates back to 1135. Modern
architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, however, in
Frank Gehry buildings and the colourful Colorium, all clustered in
the harbour district.

There are several pedestrian malls to stroll through and plenty
of museums and parks to enjoy. Visitors will be hard-pressed to
find a cleaner and more elegant city in Germany, even if there are
fewer historic buildings than may be expected. There is a
long-standing rivalry between Dusseldorf and Cologne but both
cities are gems for visitors - just order the right beer in the
right city!

Dusseldorf is located within easy distance of Bonn and Cologne,
and due to its proximity to the border also makes a good base for
weekend trips to Amsterdam, Paris, or Brussels.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.

Nijmegen

Nijmegen is a city in the southeastern Netherlands that has a rich history dating back over 2000 years. The city was an important military site during the Roman Empire and was also the first major Dutch city to be captured by the Germans during World War II. Today, Nijmegen is a vibrant and lively city with a population of over 158,000. The city is home to a number of universities and research institutes, as well as a lively nightlife scene. There is something for everyone in Nijmegen and the city is well worth a visit.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam wears two faces. On one, it beckons youth with its
notorious Red Light District and liberal views around marijuana
use. On the other, it offers discerning travellers some of Europe's
finest museums and art galleries. Its house boats, bicycles,
cobbled streets, and quaint canals are a visual treat.

For tourists, Amsterdam's compactness is a plus. The old part of
town is a story-book setting of narrow lanes, gabled houses and
ancient bridges, and a pleasure to explore on foot. Visitors can
shop boutiques for souvenirs such as Delft china or wooden clogs,
or relax at cosy bars and pavement cafes.

At night even the most conservative visitors are drawn to the
Red Light District's lively atmosphere, where prostitutes stand in
shop windows and touts encourage passers-by to view raunchy
floorshows. For the most part, travellers will find the best bars
in the bustling Leidesplein and Rembrandtplein.

Oudeschild

Harlingen

Enkhuizen

Enkhuizen is a charming town located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. Situated on the banks of the Ijsselmeer, Enkhuizen offers visitors a picturesque setting with its historic buildings, scenic canals, and beautiful waterfront.

Enkhuizen has a rich maritime history, dating back to its glory days in the 17th century when it was one of the most important trading ports in the country. This maritime heritage is still palpable today, and visitors can explore it firsthand at the Zuiderzee Museum. This open-air museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with traditional houses, workshops, and exhibits that give insight into the life of the people who lived along the Ijsselmeer.

One of the highlights of Enkhuizen is its well-preserved old town, which is a delight to explore on foot. Cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and charming canals create a romantic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The historic buildings in the old town display a range of architectural styles, from traditional Dutch houses to grand merchant mansions. Some notable landmarks include the Drommedaris, a 16th-century defensive tower that offers panoramic views of the town, and the Westerkerk, an imposing church with a beautiful interior.

Enkhuizen also offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is part of the West Frisian Woodlands, a region known for its forests, lakes, and meandering rivers. Visitors can explore this natural beauty by hiking or cycling along the numerous trails that crisscross the area. The nearby Enkhuizen-Stavoren ferry is a popular way to discover the Ijsselmeer and visit other charming towns along its shores.

For those interested in maritime history, a visit to the Enkhuizer Almanak Museum is a must-see. This small museum showcases the oldest continually published nautical yearbook in the world, providing insight into the seafaring traditions and practical knowledge of the Dutch. The museum also highlights Enkhuizen's role as a center for navigation and cartography.

Enkhuizen is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly during the summer months. The town hosts a variety of festivals, including the annual Enkhuizen Jazz Festival, which attracts international musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike. The outdoor theater festival, Sprookjeswonderland, is also popular among families, offering performances and activities for children of all ages.

As for cuisine, Enkhuizen boasts several restaurants and eateries that offer a range of gastronomic delights. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, with fresh fish and other seafood specialties readily available. Traditional Dutch dishes, such as herring and stamppot, are also on offer, as well as international cuisines to cater to every taste.

Enkhuizen is well-connected to other parts of the Netherlands, making it easily accessible for visitors. The town is serviced by a train station, with regular connections to Amsterdam and other major cities. Alternatively, a trip to Enkhuizen can also be combined with a visit to the nearby historic towns of Hoorn and Medemblik, which are accessible by train, boat, or bicycle.

In summary, Enkhuizen is a delightful destination that offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its maritime heritage to its well-preserved old town and scenic surroundings, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Dutch town. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Enkhuizen has it all.

Oudeschild

Enkhuizen

Enkhuizen is a charming town located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. Situated on the banks of the Ijsselmeer, Enkhuizen offers visitors a picturesque setting with its historic buildings, scenic canals, and beautiful waterfront.

Enkhuizen has a rich maritime history, dating back to its glory days in the 17th century when it was one of the most important trading ports in the country. This maritime heritage is still palpable today, and visitors can explore it firsthand at the Zuiderzee Museum. This open-air museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with traditional houses, workshops, and exhibits that give insight into the life of the people who lived along the Ijsselmeer.

One of the highlights of Enkhuizen is its well-preserved old town, which is a delight to explore on foot. Cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, and charming canals create a romantic atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The historic buildings in the old town display a range of architectural styles, from traditional Dutch houses to grand merchant mansions. Some notable landmarks include the Drommedaris, a 16th-century defensive tower that offers panoramic views of the town, and the Westerkerk, an imposing church with a beautiful interior.

Enkhuizen also offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and is part of the West Frisian Woodlands, a region known for its forests, lakes, and meandering rivers. Visitors can explore this natural beauty by hiking or cycling along the numerous trails that crisscross the area. The nearby Enkhuizen-Stavoren ferry is a popular way to discover the Ijsselmeer and visit other charming towns along its shores.

For those interested in maritime history, a visit to the Enkhuizer Almanak Museum is a must-see. This small museum showcases the oldest continually published nautical yearbook in the world, providing insight into the seafaring traditions and practical knowledge of the Dutch. The museum also highlights Enkhuizen's role as a center for navigation and cartography.

Enkhuizen is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly during the summer months. The town hosts a variety of festivals, including the annual Enkhuizen Jazz Festival, which attracts international musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike. The outdoor theater festival, Sprookjeswonderland, is also popular among families, offering performances and activities for children of all ages.

As for cuisine, Enkhuizen boasts several restaurants and eateries that offer a range of gastronomic delights. Seafood lovers will be in heaven, with fresh fish and other seafood specialties readily available. Traditional Dutch dishes, such as herring and stamppot, are also on offer, as well as international cuisines to cater to every taste.

Enkhuizen is well-connected to other parts of the Netherlands, making it easily accessible for visitors. The town is serviced by a train station, with regular connections to Amsterdam and other major cities. Alternatively, a trip to Enkhuizen can also be combined with a visit to the nearby historic towns of Hoorn and Medemblik, which are accessible by train, boat, or bicycle.

In summary, Enkhuizen is a delightful destination that offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its maritime heritage to its well-preserved old town and scenic surroundings, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Dutch town. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Enkhuizen has it all.

Utrecht

Known for its tulips, windmills and bicycles, the Netherlands stretches out over a predominantly flat landscape. Sleepy rural towns and sophisticated cities lie within its expansive vistas, broken here and there by dikes, walls, canals and castles. The country is also home to one of Europe's most densely populated regions, which is located in an urban hub called Randstad. The area radiates in a circle from Amsterdam and includes The Hague, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, as well as the smaller towns of Delft, Haarlem and Leiden. Visitors will find vibrant art scenes, cultural activities, seasonal festivals and excellent pubs and restaurants in these destinations.

Historically speaking, the country's global influence stretches back centuries. That is, the Dutch East India Company established trading links with the East and West Indies in the 1600s, bringing a wealth of merchandise and cultural influences back to Europe. The Netherlands' Golden Age reached its zenith in the artworks of its master painters, namely, Frans Hals, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Johannes Vermeer. Today, their paintings hang from the walls of the country's many world-class museums and galleries.

Tourists generally visit the Netherlands to experience its capital city, Amsterdam, though nature lovers may enjoy the south's undulating landscapes of heath moors and shifting sands. They're best explored within the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The historical city of Maastricht is tucked between the Belgian and German borders, and is definitely worth seeing.

Regarding global conflicts, the Netherlands has largely taken a neutral stance since the collapse of Napoleon's empire in 1814. That said, it suffered severely in World War II, when the Nazis invaded. Its neutral position and tradition of tolerance and liberalism would make it the logical location for the International Court of Justice, which is situated in The Hague.

Düsseldorf

Dusseldorf is one of Germany's economic hubs, with a densely
populated city centre housing about 600,000 people. The city is
lively, with a love of music and culture that is hard to resist.
Dusseldorf is famous for its trade and fashion fairs and attracts
visitors from all over the world to these big and exciting events.
Streets like Bolkerstraße, Ratinger Straße and Kurze Straße are
alive with entertainment in the evenings. Those looking for an
authentic drink can sample the locally-produced Altbier (meaning
old-style beer) for which Dusseldorf is known.

Much of Dusseldorf was destroyed in World War II. The city is
therefore not as scenic as others in Germany despite its ancient
history, the first mention of which dates back to 1135. Modern
architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, however, in
Frank Gehry buildings and the colourful Colorium, all clustered in
the harbour district.

There are several pedestrian malls to stroll through and plenty
of museums and parks to enjoy. Visitors will be hard-pressed to
find a cleaner and more elegant city in Germany, even if there are
fewer historic buildings than may be expected. There is a
long-standing rivalry between Dusseldorf and Cologne but both
cities are gems for visitors - just order the right beer in the
right city!

Dusseldorf is located within easy distance of Bonn and Cologne,
and due to its proximity to the border also makes a good base for
weekend trips to Amsterdam, Paris, or Brussels.