Exploring Holland's Picturesque Car-Free Villages

Amsterdam - The Starting Point of Your Adventure

Recently, I had the chance to visit the Netherlands, and of course, Amsterdam was a must-see. This city is famous for its stunning art museums, the Anne Frank House, and its vibrant canal system. However, to truly understand this beautiful country, I believe one must venture beyond the bustling cities and explore its quaint villages.

The Fairytale Village of Zierikzee

Zierikzee is a historic town located on a now-submerged island in Zeeland. It boasts over 500 fascinating historical monuments. A favorite among visitors is the Sint-Lievensmonstertoren, a church dating back to the 12th century. Despite suffering a fire in 1832, the Dikke tower still stands tall. I climbed to the top to enjoy breathtaking views of this charming town.

Don’t forget to visit the Maritime Museum and the ancient harbor gates to gain insight into the local life!

The Historic Town of Doesburg

Doesburg was once the most fortified city in the Netherlands due to its strategic location along the IJssel River. I spent time admiring the historic houses, many of which still display symbols carved into their walls that tell the stories of their former residents. Notable attractions include the mustard museum, a vinegar factory, and a herb garden.

Appingedam - A Charming Old Town

Once a vital trade center and main port, Appingedam is now a picturesque town known for its unique hanging kitchens. Saturday afternoons are perfect for hopping on a ferry with friends to explore the city, or cycling through the town center to see the town hall, which has stood since 1630.

Oudewater - The Weight Certification Town

If you feel a little out of balance, head to Oudewater for your official weight certification! This tradition dates back to the 16th century when people came here to prove they were not witches. The village is also home to ancient houses that create an enchanting historical atmosphere.

Domburg - The Alluring Coastal Village

Domburg, an ancient village by the North Sea, has attracted visitors since the 17th century. It is famous for its 40 shops adorned with Latin signs and depictions of gods washed ashore after a storm in 1647. Domburg was once a colony for renowned artists like Mondrian and James Whistler.

Harlingen - A Fairytale Port Town

Harlingen is a picturesque port town in Friesland, located in the northern Netherlands. The charming old villas here truly amazed me. Look out for the stones on rooftops; they were once used by locals to identify addresses before house numbers were introduced. Harlingen also features warehouses from the 17th century that are worth exploring.

Naarden - The Unique Fortress City

Naarden stands out among other fortress cities. Founded in 1300, its houses are arranged in a large circular layout, surrounded by towering “lance” trees. This star-shaped fortress architecture is truly impressive when viewed from above!

The White City of Thorn

Located near the Belgian border, Thorn was a small principality in the 12th century. The village is famous for its white stone houses. I visited the St. Michaelskerk monastery from the 10th century, which reflects the historical rhythm of the town.

Volendam - The Fairytale Village

Volendam is a charming village reclaimed from the Zuiderzee in the 14th century. It has attracted many artists like Picasso and Renoir. Visitors from Amsterdam often stop by Volendam to admire the traditional wooden boats and locals dressed in traditional Dutch costumes.

Giethoorn - The Venice of Northern Europe

If you can’t make it to Venice, Giethoorn is the perfect alternative. This serene village boasts numerous peaceful canals, earning it the title “Venice of Northern Europe.” With 90 km of waterways, many homes can only be accessed by boat. I rented a boat to explore the canals, stopping at riverside cafes and picturesque thatched-roof cottages.