The Netherlands, the land of colorful tulips and beautiful windmills, is a country that offers a remarkable experience to anyone who visits. Despite its small size, comparable to the East Java Province, it boasts numerous attractions that can captivate your admiration. From its remarkable geographical feature of being 3 meters below sea level to its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, the Netherlands has much to offer. If you are planning a trip there, here are some must-visit destinations that can be easily explored in a day. Let’s check them out!
Table of Contents
Village of Volendam
One such destination is the beautiful fishing village of Volendam, located 20 kilometers from Amsterdam. This charming village is easily accessible by public transportation, making it an ideal tourist spot. Situated in the Province of North Holland, Volendam is often referred to as the Old Town. Here, you will find well-preserved traditional Dutch houses by the sea. These houses, made of wooden planks, are typically without fences, and they stand adjacent to each other. Each house is painted in various colors chosen by its occupants, yet they maintain a sense of uniformity, which adds to the village’s eye-catching charm. With most houses having well-maintained lawns, the village exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that never fails to attract tourists. Volendam has a population of 16,800 inhabitants.
In this village, there is a shop that offers visitors the opportunity to dress in the legendary traditional Dutch attire, known as Kleder Dracht, and have their pictures taken. These photos are often displayed in front of the shop, serving as documentation. Interestingly, a number of notable figures from Indonesia, such as politician Rano Karno and senior singer Titiek Puspa, have also had their pictures taken here. To experience the sensation of being a true “Dutch,” one needs to spend 15 Euros. The attentive staff will ensure that every detail, from clothing to accessories, is properly arranged. It’s worth noting that some residents of Volendam still wear these traditional dresses, especially women who use them when going to the fields. The village’s commitment to preserving its traditions adds to its allure and provides a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history, making it even more appealing in an increasingly modern era.
Despite being located by the sea, Volendam does not have the typical fishy smell associated with fishing villages. On the contrary, it is known for its cleanliness and pleasant atmosphere, enhanced by the refreshing sea breeze.
Zaanse Schans
Another enchanting destination is Zaanse Schans, a village situated 25 kilometers from Volendam. It is famous for its picturesque windmills, attracting at least one million tourists each year. While windmills can be found in various countries, the Dutch have made remarkable efforts to preserve them. Windmills have been used in the Netherlands since the 13th century to reclaim land from the sea. In Zaanse Schans, some windmills are still operational, while others serve as educational tourist spots. For instance, the De Kat Windmill, which used to produce artificial dye powder, now provides visitors with the opportunity to observe its workings firsthand for a fee of 4 Euros or approximately RP. 65,000-. Exploring the village by boat and strolling along its canals, while immersing yourself in its fascinating traditions, is also highly recommended. Zaanse Schans offers a satisfying experience for every traveler.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of Windmill Country, presents a wide range of tourist options. One of the must-visit places is Dam Square, the town square. Despite being the busiest city compared to others in the Netherlands, Amsterdam still maintains the prominence of pedestrians and bicycle users in the square. You can also enjoy interacting with and feeding the pigeons, which add to the city’s beauty.
Given the country’s geographical feature of being below sea level, exploring the city from a boat ride along the river is an essential experience. Taking an hour-long boat trip allows you to witness how this city, which is below sea level, has never succumbed to the waters, thanks to the implementation of advanced technology and automatic dams that activate during heavy rainfall. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to savor Amsterdam’s favorite snacks, such as Fish and Chips and French fries served with mayonnaise and lemon.
Indeed, the Netherlands, with its abundance of natural and cultural beauty, will leave you spellbound. Even though a single day may seem fleeting, the memories created in these remarkable places will remain unforgettable. Are you ready to embark on this extraordinary journey?
