Commonly referred to as Holland, the low-lying country of the Netherlands came into existence in 1579 with the Union of Utrecht. Over the centuries, it has transformed into one of the most liberal states globally, known for its hard-working citizens who have continuously shown encouragement and appreciation for art, culture, and freedom of choice. Bordering the North Sea in the north, Germany in the east, and Belgium in the southwest, The Netherlands is primarily flat, with specific areas falling below sea level. Famous for their ingenious canal and dike systems, the Dutch maritime legacy is legendary, proof of which is in the many Dutch colonies across the globe. As a result, people often arrive in the country by boat, with ferry tickets to the Netherlands covering the three main ports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Hoek Van Holland.

The Netherlands is quite compact, making it easy to explore. However, the sheer variety of sightseeing options are a delight, giving this country a vibrant personality that is colorful and entertaining. Aalsmeer, for example, has the largest flower auction in the world, while the tulip fields of Keukenhof attracts over 1.7 million visitors every year. Then there is the cheese market, the windmills, and on a political front, Netherlands holds an essential place in the EU, NATO, and the OECD. Moreover, The Hague is of vital importance for it is where the International Court of Justice presides.

The capital of the Netherlands is Amsterdam – a city which needs no introduction. Walk around the picturesque streets, and you’ll see thousands of bicycles being used as a favorite transport method by both locals and tourists. Infamous for its coffee shops and the red-light district, Amsterdam is also an artistic hotspot with the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum displaying the world’s most treasured paintings. So, get your ferry tickets for the Netherlands via Ferryscanner, and plan a European holiday packed with good food, friendly hosts, lively events, and remarkable sights.