2 weeks in The Netherlands, see all the highlights of Holland and the vibrant city of groningen
The Netherlands itinerary
Created by:
itinerary-hub
Published on:
Sept. 14, 2020
15 days
286 km
8 steps
This 2 weeks itinerary shows you most of the popular destination in the provinces of North and South Holland and ends in the vibrant student city of Groningen.
Step 1: Rotterdam
3 days recommended
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the second biggest city of the Netherlands and lays in the south of the province of South Holland and is home to one on of the biggest ports in the world. The city was completely bombed in the second world war and had to be completely rebuild. Rather than trying to recreate the old buildings the city was rebuild as a modern metropolis full of outstanding modern architecture.
Best hotels in Rotterdam:
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CityHub Rotterdam (budget hotel)
CityHub Rotterdam offers a unique stay, the private sleeping pods provide a cozy space with a comfy king-size bed, while shared bathrooms feature rain showers. Using the hotel's app, guests can control their room and chat with staff for local tips.
Located in the bustling city center, CityHub puts you close to major attractions like the Markthal and Cube Houses. The 24-hour front desk and self-service bar add convenience. With its central spot and pod-style rooms, it's a cool choice for travelers looking to explore Rotterdam without breaking the bank.
While the pods are compact, the shared spaces offer room to mingle. The modern design and tech features give it a fresh vibe that appeals to younger crowds. Overall, CityHub provides a fun, budget-friendly base in a prime location for experiencing Rotterdam.
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Rotterdam Marriott Hotel (luxury hotel)
The Rotterdam Marriott Hotel sits in a prime spot right across from the city's central train station. This sleek high-rise has a killer location that puts you within easy walking distance of Rotterdam's main shopping areas and top attractions.
Inside, the rooms are modern and comfy, with big windows that let in lots of natural light. The beds get rave reviews for being super plush. While some guests mention hearing a bit of noise, overall the rooms offer a relaxing place to crash after a day of exploring the city.
The hotel's restaurant, Pillars Bar & Kitchen, serves up tasty casual bites and shareable plates. For a real treat, there's even a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site called The Millèn. The staff are friendly and attentive, always ready to help you make the most of your stay in Rotterdam. With its unbeatable location and solid amenities, the Marriott is a great home base for discovering this vibrant Dutch city.
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Postillion Hotel WTC Rotterdam (medium range hotel)
The Postillion Hotel in Rotterdam is super easy to get around from here - you're just a quick walk from tons of restaurants, shops, and major sights. The rooms are comfy and well-designed, with nice touches like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi.
One of the best things about this place is the killer breakfast buffet they serve up every morning. Fuel up there before heading out to explore Rotterdam. The hotel also has a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a workout during your stay.
While the location can't be beat, some guests mention it can get a bit noisy at times due to the central location. But overall, the friendly staff and convenient amenities make this a solid choice for your Rotterdam trip. Just be sure to book early - it's a popular spot that fills up fast!
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Best hostels in Rotterdam:
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Hostel Ani&Haakien (hostel)
Hostel Ani&Haakien in Rotterdam is a cool spot for backpackers looking for a fun and social place to crash. Located just a short walk from Rotterdam Central Station, it's super convenient for exploring the city.
The hostel has a chill vibe with a nice garden and terrace where you can hang out and meet other travelers. The staff are really friendly and organize activities like live music nights and walking tours to help you get to know Rotterdam. They also have a shared kitchen if you want to cook your own meals.
The dorms are clean and comfortable, with options ranging from 4-bed to 12-bed rooms. There's free WiFi throughout, bike rentals available, and a tasty breakfast for an extra charge. Overall, it's a great budget-friendly base in Rotterdam with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for solo travelers or groups looking to make new friends.
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Hostel ROOM Rotterdam (party hostel)
Hostel ROOM Rotterdam it's got a great vibe with a communal living area where you can chill out, watch some Netflix, or play board games. The bar serves up breakfast, snacks and drinks, and there's even a daily happy hour.
The rooms are simple but comfy, with shared bathrooms. While it's not fancy, it's got everything you need for a budget-friendly stay. The location can't be beat - you're just a short walk from the Erasmus Bridge and tons of restaurants and attractions.
One of the best parts is the friendly staff. They offer free walking tours and can hook you up with discounts for local sights. The kitchen is handy if you want to cook your own meals. Overall, it's a fun place to meet other travelers and explore Rotterdam without breaking the bank.
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Step 2: Delft
1 days recommended
Delft
Delft, a small student student city laying in between the Hague and Rotterdam, is famous for its blue and white ceramics. Delft is a relatively quiet city full of fascinating old buildings. It is usually visited as a day trip from Rotterdam, The Hague or Amsterdam.
Best hotels in Delft:
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Hotel de Plataan (budget hotel)
Hotel de Plataan in Delft has the rooms are decorated with fun themes like Old Egypt, Atlantis and Jungle, giving each one a unique vibe. You'll find yourself just steps away from Delft's main square and all the best restaurants and bars.
The staff here are super friendly and go out of their way to make you feel welcome. They serve up a delicious breakfast each morning with fresh fruit, local cheeses, and made-to-order omelets. The hotel also has a nice cafe on the ground floor that's perfect for a coffee or evening drink.
While the rooms aren't huge, they're comfortable and have everything you need. The location can't be beat if you want to explore Delft on foot. Overall, it's a fun, laid-back spot with tons of character in a perfect central location.
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Hampshire Hotel (luxury hotel)
Hampshire Hotel sits right on the edge of Delft's charming city center, putting you just steps away from all the main sights and attractions. The rooms are comfy and come with free WiFi, air conditioning, and nice views over the city.
What really stands out is the location - you can easily walk to spots like the Nieuwe Kerk church and Vermeer Center. The staff are super friendly and helpful too. There's an on-site restaurant and bar with a waterfront terrace that's perfect for relaxing with a drink on summer evenings.
While it's great for exploring Delft, the hotel is also a good base if you want to take day trips to nearby cities like Rotterdam or The Hague. Or you can hop on a bus and be at the beach in no time. Overall, it's a solid choice in a prime spot.
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The Social Hub (medium range hotel)
The Social Hub in Delft is a cool spot right next to the train station. It's got a fun, lively vibe that feels more like a college campus than a typical hotel. The rooms are modern and comfy, with nice views of the city. You can grab coffee or a bite to eat at their restaurant, or hang out in the shared spaces to meet other travelers.
One of the best things about this place is how close it is to everything. You're just a short walk from Delft's charming old town, with all its canals and historic buildings. The staff are super friendly and helpful if you need tips on what to see and do. Overall, it's a great home base for exploring Delft, whether you're in town for work or play.
Best hostels in Delft:
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Will & Tate City Stay (party hostel)
Will & Tate City Stay with The Will with fancy apartments and private rooms, and The Tate with dorms and stylish doubles. The location is awesome, just a short tram ride or bike ride from all the main sights like Madurodam and the beach at Scheveningen.
The place has a chill vibe with a full bar, shared kitchen, and garden terrace where you can hang out. There's even a cinema room and lounge to relax in after a day of exploring. The rooms are comfy and clean, with free WiFi throughout.
The staff are super friendly and helpful if you need tips on what to see and do nearby. With the tram stop right out front, it's easy to get around and see everything The Hague has to offer. Overall, it's a great base for checking out this charming Dutch city.
Step 3: The Hague
2 days recommended
The Hague
The Hague is the Netherlands third largest city and even though it is not the capital it is home to the government of the Netherlands. The Hague is often overlooked by travellers and although it doesn't have the flamboyance of Amsterdam it does have a lot to offer culturally, some fascinating buildings and a lively city centre.
Best hotels in The Hague:
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ibis Styles Den Haag City Centre (budget hotel)
The ibis Styles Den Haag City Centre is located in a historic building with a cool clock tower, it's got a great mix of old-world character and modern comforts. The rooms have a fresh, stylish vibe with city views and all the essentials like free WiFi and flat-screen TVs.
One of the best things about this place is its unbeatable location. You're just steps away from all the main sights, shops and restaurants. The staff get high marks for being super friendly and helpful. There's a nice lounge area to relax in, and you can fuel up for the day with their continental breakfast spread.
While some guests mention the rooms could use a bit more soundproofing, overall this ibis Styles offers great value in an awesome spot. It's perfect for travelers who want to be right in the middle of the action in The Hague without breaking the bank.
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Benvenuto (homestay)
Benvenuto is a charming little place tucked away in a quiet neighborhood of The Hague. The spacious suite offers a comfortable queen bed and lovely garden views from the balcony. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning in the separate dining area or out on the terrace when the weather's nice.
The thoughtful host René goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. He's always available if you need anything, but gives you plenty of privacy too. The location is great - it's in a peaceful residential area but just a short bus ride to the city center and main attractions. With free parking and fast WiFi, it's an ideal home base for exploring The Hague and surrounding areas.
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Hotel Indigo (luxury hotel)
Hotel Indigo in The Hague is a stylish boutique hotel located right across from the Royal Palace Noordeinde in the heart of the city. Set in a former bank building, it blends historic charm with modern design. The rooms have a cool vibe with spa-inspired bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and Illy coffee machines.
The location can't be beat - you're steps away from major sights like the Binnenhof government complex and Mauritshuis museum. After a day of exploring, you can relax at the hotel's Brasserie Stocks and Bonds for a meal or drinks. The breakfast buffet gets rave reviews from guests.
With attentive service and thoughtful touches throughout, Hotel Indigo offers a comfortable home base for experiencing The Hague. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, it's a great choice in the city center.
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Boutique Hotel Corona (medium range hotel)
Boutique Hotel Corona is set in three historic 17th century buildings, it's got loads of character but with modern comforts. The location is hard to beat - you're just steps away from major sights like the Mauritshuis museum and the Binnenhof parliament buildings.
The rooms have a contemporary style and come with handy things like free WiFi and coffee makers. After a day of exploring, you can grab a bite at the hotel's laid-back restaurant and bar. The staff are super friendly and always ready to help out with recommendations or directions.
While some rooms are on the cozy side, the central location more than makes up for it. It's an ideal base for seeing the best of The Hague, whether you're in town for business or sightseeing.
Best hostels in The Hague:
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Will & Tate City Stay (party hostel)
Will & Tate City Stay it's got two buildings - The Will with private apartments and double rooms, and The Tate with dorms and stylish doubles. The location is awesome, just a short tram ride or bike ride from all the main sights.
The place has a fun vibe with a full bar, shared kitchen, and garden terrace where you can chill. There's even a cinema room if you want to catch a movie. The rooms are clean and comfy, though some guests mentioned the tram noise can be a bit loud at times.
Overall, it's a great base for exploring The Hague. You're close to museums, restaurants, and the beach is just a few miles away. The staff are super friendly and helpful too. If you're looking for a social atmosphere in a central location, Will & Tate is definitely worth checking out.
Step 4: Leiden
1 days recommended
Leiden
Leiden is a vibrant and energetic student city of around 120,000 inhabitants. The city centre of Leiden is old and charming full of narrow streets and canals. Leiden is very easy reachable and in close proximity of Amsterdam, Rotterdam or the Hague so it is easily doable as a day trip from one of these cities.
Best hotels in Leiden:
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City Hotel Rembrandt (budget hotel)
City Hotel Rembrandt is super close to the train station and all the main sights, so you can easily explore the city on foot. The rooms were recently renovated in 2018 and have a modern, comfortable vibe. Some even come with a little seating area if you want to relax.
In the mornings, they put out a nice breakfast buffet to fuel up for the day. The staff are friendly and helpful if you need any tips about what to see and do in Leiden. It's just a quick walk to museums, shops, and the famous canals. Overall, it's a convenient home base for checking out this charming university town. The central location can't be beat if you want to be in the middle of the action.
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Boutique Hotel Huys van Leyden (luxury hotel)
Boutique Hotel Huys van Leyden, this place has some serious history - it's in a building from 1611 that's been lovingly restored. The rooms are all unique, with wood floors and bright colors that give them lots of personality. And the location can't be beat - it's right next to one of Leiden's pretty canals.
What really makes this hotel stand out is the little extras. You can have afternoon tea, book a private boat trip on the canals, or enjoy dinner at the hotel. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure guests have a great stay. Just keep in mind there's no elevator, so you'll get your steps in going up and down the stairs.
If you want to be right in the middle of things in Leiden, this is the place to be. It's an easy walk to all the main sights like the Pieterskerk and the old town area with its museums. The train station is close by too if you want to take day trips. Overall, it's a cozy home base for exploring this picturesque Dutch city.
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Boutique Hotel d'Oude Morsch (medium range hotel)
Boutique Hotel d'Oude Morsch, the hotel occupies a historic 200-year-old building, giving it tons of character. Its location is really tough to beat - it's just a few minutes' walk from the train station and all the main sights in town.
The rooms have a cozy, stylish vibe with nice touches like coffee machines and comfy beds. While some guests mentioned the rooms being on the smaller side, most raved about how clean and well-appointed they were. The friendly staff and delicious breakfast also got lots of praise from visitors.
One of the best things about staying here is being able to easily explore Leiden on foot. You're super close to museums, the botanical gardens, and all the quaint canals and architecture that make this Dutch city so appealing. All in all, it's a great home base for discovering everything Leiden has to offer.
Best hostels in Leiden:
step 4: Leiden
step 5: Keukenhof gardens
Step 5: Keukenhof gardens
1 days recommended
Keukenhof gardens
The Keukenhof gardens are during the flowering period (end march to mid may) one of the most visited sites of the Netherlands and rightfully so. The gardens are one of the most beautiful in the world and filled with millions of flowers. The Keukenhof gardens are located on the edge of the little town of Lisse, but are easily doable as a day trip from one of the nearby cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam or the Hague. Try to get here early because this place can get very busy once the tour busses arrive.
Best hotels in Keukenhof gardens:
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Hotel Restaurant de Engel (budget hotel)
Hotel Restaurant de Engel is just a short drive from the famous Keukenhof gardens, it's perfectly located for flower lovers wanting to explore the colorful tulip fields in spring. The cozy rooms have modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and coffee makers, and some even have balconies overlooking the surrounding countryside.
The on-site restaurant is a big highlight, serving up tasty Dutch and international dishes. After a day of sightseeing, you can relax with a drink at the bar or challenge your travel buddies to a game of pool. The staff are super friendly and go out of their way to make guests feel welcome. While it's not a luxury hotel, De Engel offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring this picturesque part of the Netherlands.
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Boutique Suites Lisse (medium range hotel)
Boutique Suites Lisse is just a short walk from the famous Keukenhof gardens. The rooms are modern and spacious, with comfy beds and handy kitchenettes. I loved the stylish decor and how clean everything was kept.
The location can't be beat if you're in town to see the tulips. It's super close to restaurants and shops too. The staff were friendly and helpful with local tips. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at night from the nearby bars, so light sleepers might want earplugs.
All in all, it's a great home base for exploring the area. The free parking is a nice perk, and the breakfast looked tasty (though I didn't try it myself). For the price, you get a lot of space and amenities compared to other options nearby.
Best hostels in Keukenhof gardens:
step 5: Keukenhof gardens
step 6: Haarlem
Step 6: Haarlem
1 days recommended
Haarlem
Haarlem is a city located outside of Amsterdam in the northwest of the Netherlands. The city used to be a major walled trading port, the city still has a medieval character, with cobblestone streets and gabled houses. The city is also home to many great museums.
Best hotels in Haarlem:
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Holiday Inn (budget hotel)
The Holiday Inn in Haarlem is super close to all the main sights, just a quick walk from the train station and city center. The rooms are modern and comfy, with big beds and all the amenities you need for a great stay.
One of the best things about this place is the breakfast - people rave about it. There's a big buffet with tons of options to fuel up for a day of exploring. The staff are really friendly too, always happy to give tips on what to see and do in Haarlem.
If you're looking for a centrally located hotel that won't break the bank, this Holiday Inn is a solid choice. It's clean, convenient, and has all the basics covered. Plus you can't beat the location for exploring everything Haarlem has to offer on foot.
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Van der Valk Hotel (luxury hotel)
Van der Valk Hotel Haarlem is a modern and stylish hotel just outside the city center. The spacious rooms feature comfy extra-long beds, satellite TV, and private balconies - perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The on-site restaurant, Martinus, serves up tasty dishes for every occasion, from business dinners to family meals.
One of the best perks is the free parking, which can be hard to find in Dutch cities. The hotel is only about a 10-minute drive from Haarlem's main attractions like the Grote Markt and Frans Hals Museum. For those flying in, Schiphol Airport is just 15 minutes away by car. With amenities like a spa, fitness center, and 24-hour front desk, Van der Valk offers a comfortable home base for exploring charming Haarlem and the surrounding area.
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Hotel ML (medium range hotel)
Hotel ML is its prime location across from the Grote Kerk puts you steps away from the city's main sights and bustling squares. The building itself is a beautifully restored historic gem, with spacious rooms featuring modern amenities and stylish decor.
The staff here really go above and beyond to make your stay special. The breakfasts are a highlight - think fresh pastries, local cheeses, and made-to-order eggs. In the evenings, you can unwind with a cocktail in the cozy bar or treat yourself to an upscale dinner at their Michelin-starred restaurant.
Hotel ML offers a base for exploring picturesque Haarlem. The mix of old-world charm and contemporary comforts, plus the unbeatable location, make it well worth considering for your next visit to this lovely Dutch city.
Best hostels in Haarlem:
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Stayokay (party hostel)
Stayokay in Haarlem is a cool spot if you're looking for a laid-back place to crash. It's on the edge of town, so you get some peace and quiet, but you're still close enough to hit the beach at Bloemendaal aan Zee. The rooms are simple but clean, with bunk beds in the dorms and private rooms if you want your own space.
The best part might be the free breakfast - it's actually pretty good for a hostel. There's a nice terrace by the water where you can chill with a drink from the cafe. And if you're feeling active, you can rent a bike and cruise through the dunes or along the beach.
It's not fancy, but it's got everything you need - free WiFi, parking, and friendly staff who can give you tips on what to see in Haarlem. Overall, a solid budget-friendly option if you want to explore the area without breaking the bank.
Step 7: Amsterdam
4 days recommended
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, located in the province of North-Holland, is the capital of the Netherlands. Amsterdam is known for its canal system lined with narrow houses with gabled facades and for its many great museums with some of the worlds most famous paintings.
Best hotels in Amsterdam:
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MEININGER Hotel (budget hotel)
MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West is a great spot for travelers looking to explore Amsterdam without breaking the bank. Located right next to Sloterdijk train station, it's super easy to get into the city center or to Schiphol Airport. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with options ranging from private rooms to dorm-style beds.
The hotel has a fun, social vibe with a bar, guest kitchen, and lobby area where you can hang out. The staff are friendly and there's free WiFi throughout. While it's not right in the heart of Amsterdam, the convenient location next to public transit makes it easy to see all the main sights.
For budget-conscious travelers or groups, MEININGER offers good value. The rooms are basic but have everything you need, and the hotel has a nice mix of social areas and privacy. Overall, it's a solid affordable option if you don't mind being a short train ride from central Amsterdam.
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Saint Claire Studio's (homestay)
Saint Claire Studio's is steps away from all the main sights like Dam Square and the Royal Palace. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped with things like free WiFi, air conditioning, and coffee makers.
What's really great about this place is the location. You can easily walk to tons of restaurants, bars, and museums. It's also super close to public transportation if you want to explore further out. The staff are friendly and helpful too.
While the rooms aren't huge, they have everything you need for a nice stay in the city. It's a good option if you want to be centrally located without spending a fortune. Just keep in mind it's up some stairs, so pack light if you can. Overall, a solid choice for experiencing Amsterdam.
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Singel Hotel (luxury hotel)
The Singel Hotel in Amsterdam is set in three renovated 17th-century canal houses, it offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort. The location can't be beat - it's just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station and close to major attractions like Dam Square and the Anne Frank House.
The rooms are cozy and well-equipped, with amenities like flat-screen TVs and coffee makers. While not huge, they make smart use of the space. One of the best features is the canal views from some of the rooms - you can't get more quintessentially Amsterdam than that.
The staff here really go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. They're always happy to offer tips on exploring the city or help arrange tours and tickets. With its unbeatable location and friendly service, the Singel Hotel is a great home base for discovering all that Amsterdam has to offer.
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Alp Hotel (medium range hotel)
Alp Hotel is tucked away on a quiet street, but still super close to all the main sights. The rooms are bright and comfy, with some even having balconies overlooking a peaceful garden.
The staff here are really friendly and helpful. They've got free coffee and fruit available 24/7, which is great for a quick snack or caffeine boost. While there's no restaurant on-site, you're surrounded by tons of great places to eat nearby.
Location-wise, it's perfect. You can walk to places like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum in about 10 minutes. There are also tram stops close by if you want to explore further out. Overall, it's an ideal home base for exploring Amsterdam, especially if you want something more low-key than the busy tourist areas.
Best hostels in Amsterdam:
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Via Amsterdam (party hostel)
Via Amsterdam is a cool spot for travelers looking to explore the Dutch capital without breaking the bank. Located about 10 minutes from the city center by metro, it's got a hip vibe with street art and urban design throughout.
The rooms range from private doubles to dorms, all with city views. There's a shared kitchen if you want to cook, plus a restaurant serving international cuisine with veggie and gluten-free options. Breakfast is available too if you want to fuel up before hitting the sights.
When you're not out exploring, Via Amsterdam has plenty to keep you entertained - there's bike rental, a cinema room, and chill-out spaces to hang with other guests. It's a great base for seeing Amsterdam while staying somewhere with character that won't empty your wallet. The nearby metro makes it easy to zip into the heart of the action whenever you want.
step 7: Amsterdam
step 8: Groningen
Step 8: Groningen
2 days recommended
Groningen
Groningen is a city in the north of the Netherlands with about 200.000 inhabitants. This vibrant student city is home to over over 50.000 students and has a great youthful atmosphere. The city is a popular place to study because of its great party scene where the bars stay open past 6:00 A.M every day of the week. Few tourist make it to this city relatively far from Amsterdam, but the ones that do will be rewarded with a buzzing city with a nightlife that can rival any place on earth.
Best hotels in Groningen:
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Hotel Halbert (budget hotel)
Hotel Halbert is steps away from the iconic Martini Tower and lively Grote Markt square. The rooms have a modern, comfy vibe with extra long beds and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
One of the highlights is definitely the breakfast. On nice days, you can enjoy it out in the city garden, which is such a peaceful way to start your morning. The spread has lots of fresh options, including gluten-free choices. And if you're looking for a nice dinner, the onsite restaurant Blumé serves up seasonal dishes in a cozy setting.
The staff here are super friendly and helpful too. Whether you need restaurant recommendations or directions around town, they're always happy to assist. With its perfect location and welcoming atmosphere, Hotel Halbert is an ideal home base for exploring all that Groningen has to offer.
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The Market Hotel (medium range hotel)
The Market Hotel in Groningen is located on the bustling Grote Markt square, you're steps away from shops, restaurants, and major sights like the Martini Tower. The rooms are sleek and modern, with comfy beds and nice touches like coffee machines and soundproof windows to keep out the street noise.
One of the best parts is the breakfast - they put out an impressive spread each morning. The hotel also has a fitness center if you want to squeeze in a workout, plus a spa for some relaxation. With friendly staff and an unbeatable location, it's a great home base for exploring Groningen. Just keep in mind it can get lively in the area on weekends with the nearby bars and cafes.
Best hostels in Groningen:
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PJs Hostel (party hostel)
PJs Hostel in Groningen is location can't be beat - you're just steps away from the main square and all the action. The hostel has a modern vibe with these neat "cocoon" style beds that give you some privacy, even in the dorm rooms.
The place is super clean and new, with comfy beds and stylish bathrooms. There's a restaurant and bar on the ground floor, which is handy for grabbing food or drinks. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy on weekend nights from the music downstairs.
Overall, PJs is a great choice if you want a central location and don't mind sharing a room. The cocoon beds, clean facilities, and social atmosphere make it stand out from your average hostel. It's perfect for solo travelers or groups looking to explore Groningen without breaking the bank.