While Amsterdam is an essential stop for anyone traveling to the Netherlands—with its iconic canals, world-class art museums, and the poignant Anne Frank House—the real soul of the country lies beyond the capital. The charm of Holland is best discovered in its small towns, where cobblestone streets wind past quaint homes, and historic architecture meets peaceful waterways and traditional windmills. These towns offer a slower pace of life, a deep sense of history, and vibrant spring fields blooming with daffodils and tulips. Here are some of the most picturesque small towns in the Netherlands that you absolutely need to explore:
10. Zierikzee
Located on a former island in the province of Zeeland, Zierikzee is a treasure trove of history, boasting over 500 historic monuments. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Dikke Tower, the only surviving remnant of the 12th-century Sint-Lievensmonstertoren church, which was destroyed by fire in 1832. Climbing the tower rewards visitors with sweeping views of the city. As a former fishing port, Zierikzee also houses the Maritime Museum and historic North and South port gates, offering a glimpse into its nautical past.
9. Doesburg
Once the most strategically important fortified city in the Netherlands, Doesburg sits along the IJssel River. History is written into its architecture—many old homes still display symbolic shields on their facades. Notable attractions include the Mustard Museum, a working vinegar factory, a herbal garden, and the intricate glasswork at the Lalique Museum. Don’t miss De Waag, reputedly the oldest public building in the country, and the Reformed Church, which intriguingly resembles a warehouse more than a cathedral.
8. Appingedam
This medieval gem in the province of Groningen once thrived as a bustling seaport. Today, Appingedam is best known for its charming “hanging kitchens,” small rooms jutting over the Damsterdiep Canal. On Saturday afternoons, a scenic ferry ride gives visitors a unique view of the town’s historic center. Explore its cozy streets on foot or by bike to see the 17th-century Town Hall and the centuries-old Nicolai Church.
7. Oudewater
Back in the 16th century, Oudewater became famous for its “witches’ scales.” During the European witch trials, people came here to be officially weighed—if your weight matched your height, you were cleared of suspicion. Today, you can still get your own certificate at the Heksenwaag. Beyond its quirky history, Oudewater offers a beautifully preserved medieval atmosphere, with canals lined by timeworn homes dating back to its founding in 1265.
6. Domburg
A coastal retreat since the 1600s, Domburg is located in Zeeland along the North Sea. A major storm in 1647 revealed ancient stores with Latin inscriptions and mythological images, adding to the village’s mystique. Domburg later became a haven for artists like Piet Mondrian and James Whistler. Visitors today come for the beaches, surfing, biking, fishing, and horseback riding—making it a perfect spot for a break from historic tours.
5. Harlingen
Way up north in Friesland lies Harlingen, a historic harbor town rich in seafaring tradition and filled with beautifully preserved mansions. Look for gable stones on the buildings—they once served as house identifiers before modern addresses existed. Some stones even reveal the original purpose of the building, like the golden angel marking what used to be a Masonic lodge. Old 17th-century warehouses also line the canals, giving the town a timeless appeal.
4. Naarden
Naarden is a true standout among fortress towns. Designed in the star-shaped fortification style, the town’s buildings are arranged in a perfect circle surrounded by green pointed bastions and a wide moat. Aerial views of the town are simply stunning. Naarden is home to the Netherlands Fortress Museum and hosts the famous St. Matthew Passion concert every Good Friday, adding a musical note to its military legacy.
3. Thorn
Thorn, in Limburg near the Belgian border, was once a mini-state within the Holy Roman Empire ruled by an abbess and noble nuns. Its centerpiece is the elaborate St. Michaelskerk Abbey Church, which dates to the 10th century. Today, the town is known as the “White Village” thanks to its uniformly whitewashed houses—a tradition that began in the 18th century. Thorn is as peaceful as it is photogenic.
2. Volendam
Founded on land reclaimed from the sea in the 14th century, Volendam became a haven for farmers, fishermen, and later, artists like Picasso and Renoir. The town’s storybook look—complete with red-tiled roofs and traditional Dutch costumes—has made it a favorite day trip for visitors from Amsterdam. Stroll the harbor, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in views of the classic fishing boats that still bob in the water.
1. Giethoorn
Nicknamed “the Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a town where the roads are waterways. With 55 miles of tranquil canals, some homes are accessible only by boat. Glide past thatched-roof cottages, cozy cafés, and arched wooden bridges on a guided canal tour or rent a boat and paddle at your own pace. It’s the ultimate destination for serenity, scenery, and a slower pace of life.