More on The Netherlands – Den Haag and Utrecht!

So I’ve covered Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Giethoorn so far, but you’d have seen in my Amsterdam post (this one) that my 6-day itinerary consists of 2 additional cities – Den Haag, Madurodam (it’s in the Den Haag area) and Utrecht. I’m putting it down in a single post as a ready reference.

I didn’t get a chance to go to these 3 places, but if when I do, this is probably what I’ll cover!

Den Haag

The third largest city in Amsterdam and home to the International Court of Justice. The Hague is all about delectable architecture and art. Walk around the city and check out seat of the Dutch government. Take a look at the Binnenhof, the world’s oldest House of Parliament that’s still in use. The famous ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’ by Johannes Vermeer is at the Mauritshuis since 1902, so the museum is worth a visit.

If you like hanging around in nature, the Japanese garden is something I’d totally visit. Lush greens and pinks and purples, a basket with wine and snacks, a good book and me. I’d dig that 🙂

Madurodam

Madurodam is situated in the Hague, but I’ve mentioned it separately because you won’t be able to fit in so much in a single day! I can’t. I want to take my own sweet time to explore miniature Holland in all it’s tiny 1:25 glory! Such a fun way to learn all about Holland and its history!

Utrecht

I read somewhere that Utrecht is a cross between Bruges and Amsterdam, and I was sold. I’ll probably give Utrecht a couple of days, and am roughly outlining what I’ll do, so in case you head there before I do, here’s something to get you started 🙂

1. Free Walking Tour – Yep. I love these. It’s such a great way to familiarise yourself with the city layout and revisit places you love! And the guides will always help with interesting little tidbits and city hacks 🙂
2. Domtoren – This is the highest church tower in the Netherlands, and I’m a sucker for panoramic views. Climb all 465 stairs to treat yourself to a spectacular view! Can’t wait 😀
3. DOMunder – There’s something about the underground part of a city. It takes me back in time, and I think it’s always a great way to explore the history of a city! Going under the Domplein, or the square where the city was founded, is sure a great way to delve into (pun unintended 😉 ) what made the city what it is today!
4. Stroll along the canals – Get coffee (or beer 😀 ), sit around, people watch, do some shopping.. I’d like that 🙂
5. Museum Speelklok – I love music, and this is a museum of music making machines! How interesting is that!
6. Inktpot – There’s a UFO attached to a side of this building! This is the biggest brick building in the Netherlands, and I’d like to get some snaps of it, it sounds quite unique, doesn’t it?
7. De Haar Castle – This LOOKS like a fairy tale! It’s the biggest castle in the Netherlands, and is well known for hosting lavish parties. The parks surrounding the castle are breathtaking and would make for SUCH amazing photo ops!

I haven’t been to these places yet, but this is EXACTLY why I want to go back to the Netherlands! There is SO MUCH to see and do!

I’d love to hear if there’s anything I should add to this! Let me know in the comments below 🙂