The Netherlands is home to a variety of ancient ruins and interesting architecture. One of the most famous ancient ruins is the Roman city of Forum Hadriani, located in modern-day Voorburg. This archaeological site features the remains of a Roman …
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Netherlands
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Backpacking Netherlands in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Netherlands with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Netherlands
Embark on a backpacking escapade in the Netherlands, a charming blend of picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural treasures. Pros? Explore the iconic canals of Amsterdam, cycle through tulip fields, and relish the friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The compact size and efficient public transportation make it easy to navigate. However, the cost of living can be higher compared to some backpacker havens. Yet, the Netherlands' unique mix of history, art, and outdoor adventures offers backpackers a Euro-centric experience, where the quaint meets the cosmopolitan, making it an enticing and culturally rich destination in the heart of Europe.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Netherlands
Architecture
💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Netherlands
- Amsterdam: The capital city of Netherlands is a must-visit destination. Explore the charming canals, visit the Anne Frank House, admire the Van Gogh Museum, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
- Keukenhof Gardens: Known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof is a stunning display of colorful tulips and other flowers. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
- Rotterdam: This modern city is famous for its futuristic architecture. Visit the iconic Cube Houses, explore the Markthal, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Euromast observation tower.
- The Hague: As the seat of the Dutch government, The Hague offers a rich history and cultural experience. Visit the Binnenhof, explore the Mauritshuis museum, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Scheveningen.
- Giethoorn: Known as the ”Venice of the Netherlands,” Giethoorn is a picturesque village with canals, charming thatched-roof houses, and beautiful gardens. Take a boat tour and explore the tranquil waterways.
But Netherlands offers more...
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Netherlands
Traveled route: Amsterdam, Gestapelde Zaanse Huisjes, Zaanse Schans, Gouda, Rotterdam, Harlingen, Terschelling, Loosdrechtse Plassen
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Netherlands
The best time to visit the Netherlands for backpacking would be during the spring or summer months, specifically from April to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, allowing you to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, many festivals and events take place during the summer, providing a vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences. However, keep in mind that popular tourist destinations can be crowded during peak season, so it's advisable to plan and book accommodations in advance.
Risk level: low (33%)Safety advice for Netherlands
- The Netherlands' national terrorism threat level is set at 'substantial' - level 4 of 5.
- Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Terrorists may target tourist areas and attractions or other places frequented by foreigners. Public transport is also a possible target. Take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities.
- Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Drink spiking is also a risk.
- Watch out for thieves who pose as plain-clothed police officers.
- Take care of your belongings, particularly at tourist spots and on public transport.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
NetherlandsMy tips to get you on the way!Does Netherlands sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Netherlands. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Netherlands may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Netherlands. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Netherlands may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Netherlands, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Netherlands, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024
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