The Netherlands is known for its peace, tranquillity and traditional way of life which makes it the perfect vacation spot to relax. Despite the fact that nearly 50% of the country was once under water, the Netherlands is actually quite densely populated with around 17 million people living and working there. This doesn’t mean it’s packed and stressful though, thanks to an organised road system and efficient public transport. It does however mean that there’s a large range of places to visit all in one relatively compact area.
No bigger than the US state of Maryland, the Netherlands is packed with fertile, pancake-flat land crossed with drainage ditches and breath-taking canals. Underneath the often sunny clear skies, the country’s towns and villages are remarkably pristine with townhouses, waterways and ancient church spires having been left largely untouched though the ages. Despite the country’s small size, each town proudly displays its own unique identity, complete with different accents and dialects. In the summer months, beautiful wild flowers provide stunning displays of colour, whilst in the north and west of the country the beautiful coastline is backed by delightful sand dunes and soft sand beaches.
Whatever it is you’re looking for a in a vacation, the Netherlands has it all in abundance and is certainly one for any bucket list.
5 Things You Need to Know About The Netherlands
Here are five things you may not have known about The Netherlands, which you’ll want to make note of before packing your bags:
Time Difference: UTC +2 hours
Currency: Euro
Native Language: Dutch
Weather: The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate influenced by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, with cool summers and moderate winters. Daytime temperatures vary from 2°C-6°C in the winter and 17°C-20°C in the summer.
Sales Tax: 21%
Flying to The Netherlands from Canada
Here’s everything you’ll need to know about flying to The Netherlands from Canada, including flight times and entry requirements.
Flight Times
Flights from Canada to The Netherlands generally take around eight hours, with direct flights available from Toronto and Calgary.
Flights from other cities in Canada, such as Vancouver and Montreal, will have to take indirect routes, which will take a little longer.
Entry Requirements
Canadians may enter the Netherlands for up to 90 days for tourist purposes without a visa. You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining after you’ve returned back to Canada.
Airlines That Fly to The Netherlands
The following airlines offer direct flights from Canada to The Netherlands:
- Air Canada
- Air Transat
- KLM
10 Netherlands Must-Dos
If you’ve never visited The Netherlands before and are wondering what the ‘must-see’ sights and attractions are, here are our top ten:
- Rijksmuseum
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- Heineken Experience
- Red Light District
- Nationaal Park Zuid Kennemerland
- Dutch National Opera & Ballet
- UNESCO World Heritage Kinderdijk
- Maastricht Underground
Book Cheap Flights to The Netherlands with Globehunters
If you’re searching for your once in a lifetime trip to The Netherlands, then look no further than Globehunters. You’ll find the best deals on flights, hotels and car hire with us, and every booking is protected for extra peace of mind.