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Explore the Netherlands
The Netherlands is tiny - you can reach the farthest point in 3 hours. Amsterdam is amazing but there's so much more. Rotterdam's architecture, Utrecht's canals, The Hague's beaches... I've been escaping by train every chance I get for three years.
1Day Trips
Zaanse Schans: Windmills, 17min. Haarlem: Mini Amsterdam but calmer. Leiden: University town. Delft: Blue-white ceramics.
2Major Cities
Rotterdam: Modern architecture - Cube Houses, Markthal. Utrecht: Canalside cafes. The Hague: Scheveningen beach. Maastricht: Most 'un-Dutch' city.
3Transport Guide
Download NS app. Load OV-chipkaart with min 20€. Off-peak hours: outside 06:30-09:00 and 16:00-18:30. Flixbus for cheap Europe travel.
4Seasonal Events
April: Keukenhof, King's Day on 27th. Summer: Festivals, beach clubs. Winter: Sinterklaas, Amsterdam Light Festival.
5Practical Info
Always carry rain gear. Learn bike rules. Check NS app for train cancellations.
💡Rose's Travel Tips
- Get an OV-chipkaart (anonymous 7.50€) - works on all public transport
- NS Dal Voordeel (50€/year) gives 40% discount during off-peak
- OV-fiets at every station, 4.55€/day
- Buienradar app is essential - rain radar accurate to the minute
- Group tickets (Groepsticket) are great value
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I go for a day trip?
Utrecht 30min, Rotterdam 40min, The Hague 50min, Haarlem 15min. Keukenhof in spring, Zaanse Schans for windmills.
How to buy train tickets?
NS app or yellow machines. With OV-chipkaart, just check-in/check-out. Single tickets +1€.
Can I cycle between cities?
Yes! Bike paths are excellent. Amsterdam-Haarlem is 45min-1hr.
Best season?
April-May for tulips. Summer stays light until 22:00. Winter for Christmas markets.
Travel Inspiration
I share my Netherlands adventures on Instagram. New route every weekend!
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