Things to do in North Holland

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North Holland Travel Guide

Haarlem showing a windmill and a river or creek

Muntplein featuring a bay or harbor, a bridge and a river or creek

Leidseplein which includes a city, night scenes and street scenes

Volendam featuring farmland and a windmill

North Holland must see attractions

1. Van Gogh Museum

Head to the Van Gogh Museum to see some of the works of a groundbreaking 19th-century Dutch painter. Sadly, Vincent Van Gogh only sold one of his paintings during his short life, and never dreamed of the fame he’d enjoy after his death. Here you can browse the world’s largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings and learn about his tormented life. The museum also displays works by other master painters of his time, including Monet, Gauguin and Seurat.

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2. Anne Frank House

A visit to the Anne Frank House is a sober yet enlightening experience. The life story of Anne Frank has become one of the most famous accounts of a Jew hiding in Nazi Germany. Anne’s diary, which she started in 1942 when she was 13, is the most translated Dutch book of all time. Its first translation was in German, in 1950.

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Anne Frank House featuring street scenes and a city

3. Dam Square

Amsterdam’s origins lie on Dam Square and you’ll get a sense of this history as you look at the structures here. Today the square is also a venue for mass events, fun fairs and pantomime artists. Join the locals and relax at the base of the National Monument while listening to street organs. Chase the pigeons and dodge the many cyclists when you cross the square to go shopping or explore some of the historical buildings.

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Dam Square showing a square or plaza, a city and street scenes

4. Rijksmuseum

To understand how the tiny country of the Netherlands became a world superpower through both art and trade, visit the Rijksmuseum. Browse through over a million works of art and historical objects in more than 200 rooms. You’ll see famous paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer, among hundreds of other artists, and admire the ornate building itself.

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Rijksmuseum which includes heritage architecture

5. Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a State Monument and an Amsterdam hot spot in summer. This is where locals go to sunbathe, cycle or play outside. There are also concerts or other performances on weekends. Over 10 million visitors come here every year to enjoy nature and culture, as well as order drinks and meals on the restaurant terraces.

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Vondelpark featuring a pond, landscape views and a statue or sculpture

6. Leidseplein

Delve into the many delights of buzzing Leidseplein to people-watch while enjoying a meal or just a drink after a day of sightseeing. In the warmer months, the area is packed with people gathered on the terraces of the restaurants and bars. Order a local beer and watch the street performers. In the winter, visit one of the many restaurants or clubs, or head to the ice rink surrounded by hot food and drink stalls for an atmospheric outdoor experience. If you love architecture, 17th-century Leidseplein has some interesting buildings for a walking tour.

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Leidseplein showing a city and heritage architecture

What to do in North Holland

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Van Gogh Museum

This modern museum houses the world’s largest collection of the legendary Dutch master painter who led a troubled life and never saw his work become famous.

Anne Frank House

See where this brave and famous Jewish teenager hid from the Nazis during World War II and recorded her world-famous diary.

Dam Square

Amsterdam’s iconic square, with its cobbled stones and grand historical buildings, is a lively gathering place and venue for protests and celebrations.

Rijksmuseum

This palatial building full of Dutch paintings and international artifacts is the country’s largest public-funded museum.

Vondelpark

One of the oldest and largest public parks in Amsterdam is a relaxing place to rest, have lunch or watch a performance after visiting the nearby museums.

Leidseplein

This lively square in the heart of Amsterdam’s cultural district offers dining and entertainment, with an array of theater, movie, music, comedy and street performances.

Rembrandt Square

You can find out about the history of Amsterdam with a stop at Rembrandt Square. Discover the fascinating museums in this vibrant area, or seek out the biking trails.

Zandvoort Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Zandvoort Beach during your travels in Zandvoort? While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

Armin van Buuren show May 2017 - Lights #Patterns

Johan Cruyff Arena

Catch an event at Johan Cruyff Arena, and enjoy other activities in Amsterdam such as biking. Experience the great live music and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in North Holland

Flower Market showing a city, a river or creek and markets

Amsterdam City Centre

4.5/5(2,270 area reviews)

Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt Square are a few top attractions in Amsterdam City Centre. Hop around the city on the metro at Nieuwmarkt Station or Waterlooplein Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, charming cafes, and popular shops.

Amsterdam showing a city, street scenes and a river or creek

Binnenstad

While you're in Binnenstad, take in top sights like Dam Square or National Monument, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Dam Stop or Paleisstraat Tram Stop.

Amsterdam Tulip Museum showing street scenes and signage as well as a small group of people

Jordaan

Upscale modern art galleries thrive in this historic area, while markets bustle at Noordermarkt, Westerstraat, and Lindengracht. Explore tranquil gardens and hidden courtyards (hofjes), or visit the Anne Frank House nearby.

Rijksmuseum showing a pond, views and a city

Museum Quarter

4.5/5(1,225 area reviews)

In the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid, Museumkwartier boasts major museums like Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum, and Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy concerts at Concertgebouw, unwind in Vondelpark, and access tram lines 2, 3, 5, 12, 16, and 24.

Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

While you're in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage, take in top sights like Nemo Science Museum or Nieuwmarkt Square, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Nieuwmarkt Station or Mr. Visserplein Stop.

Red Light District

Explore this vibrant area with a mix of architectural styles and colorful streets known for adult entertainment. Visit local coffeeshops and the museums in the neighborhood for a unique experience.

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