Explore the best places to visit in Southern Holland. The captivating blend of history and beauty in Southern Holland, from regal sites in The Hague to the timeless charm of Delft. Discover more about these enchanting destinations – read on for an unforgettable journey.

Rotterdam: Where Modernity Meets Tradition

Rotterdam is full of family-friendly activities, offering a perfect mix of educational and entertaining experiences for a full day. Start your day with a visit to Diergaarde Blijdorp, the city’s well-known zoo, where kids can marvel at elephants, penguins, and an incredible aquarium tunnel in the Oceanium that offers a unique view of sea life. Read more about Blijdorp in this article.

Right next to the zoo, the Vroesenpark is an ideal spot for a picnic and some outdoor play with its playgrounds and green spaces. For a taste of the city’s architecture, take a stroll or a quick metro ride to the iconic Cube Houses, a quirky, tilted architectural marvel that’s fun for both kids and adults to explore. Nearby, the Maritime Museum provides interactive exhibits showcasing Rotterdam’s rich history with the sea, including the chance to learn about ships and port logistics through hands-on displays and outdoor installations.

Afterward, head over to the Kunsthal if your kids enjoy colorful, inspiring art exhibitions, or consider Miniworld Rotterdam, a miniature version of the Netherlands with moving trains, little towns, and detailed landscapes that captivate young imaginations. When hunger strikes, the Markthal is a fantastic stop; this large indoor market offers a wide variety of food stands with family-friendly options and an impressive ceiling mural, giving a unique cultural touch.

For some outdoor fun, a visit to Het Park near the Euromast provides open lawns and playgrounds, with the option to go up the Euromast tower for a panoramic view of the city from 185 meters above. Alternatively, consider taking a scenic boat ride on the Maas River, like the Spido Harbor Tour, which gives the whole family a closer look at Europe’s largest port, complete with exciting views of Rotterdam’s bridges and skyline.

Finally, end the day with a stop by Plaswijckpark, a family adventure park with playgrounds, a petting zoo, and paddle boats, ensuring a full day of diverse activities that cater to all ages in Rotterdam.

The Hague: Royal Grandeur and Cultural Heritage

The Hague offers an exciting variety of family-friendly activities, perfect for a full day of fun, culture, and relaxation. Begin your day with a visit to Madurodam, a captivating miniature park that brings the Netherlands to life in 1:25 scale, where kids can operate interactive displays like moving boats and planes, and get a taste of Dutch history and landmarks in a hands-on way.

Next, take a short tram ride to the Binnenhof, the historic center of Dutch politics. Families can explore the stunning Gothic architecture and take a guided tour of the Ridderzaal (Knight’s Hall), where older kids can learn about Dutch governance in an engaging setting. For lunch and a splash of art, visit Het Plein, a lively square near the Mauritshuis Museum, home to iconic works like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. The museum offers special activities and programs tailored to young visitors, making it an accessible stop for budding art lovers.

A must-visit for families is Sea Life Scheveningen, a large aquarium located in the beachside district of Scheveningen. Here, kids can walk through underwater tunnels, see shark feedings, and learn about marine conservation. If the weather is warm, spend some time on Scheveningen Beach, where families can build sandcastles, play volleyball, or explore the De Pier, a lively boardwalk with arcades, shops, and even a Ferris wheel that provides panoramic views of the North Sea. The beach also offers a range of family-friendly restaurants, so it’s easy to refuel after a day of beach fun.

For some historical fun, head to Panorama Mesdag, a unique, massive cylindrical painting that gives an immersive view of 19th-century Scheveningen; children love stepping back in time to imagine the world as it was. If there’s time left, a trip to the Museon science museum is a fantastic end to the day, with interactive exhibits on topics like space, sustainability, and history, designed to engage and inspire curious young minds.

Finally, stroll through the peaceful Haagse Bos park or visit the Clingendael Estate, where children can run around the Japanese garden and discover secret paths, adding a touch of nature and exploration to an exciting day in The Hague. Read more about the Hague in this article.

Scheveningen: Beachfront Bliss and Coastal Delights

Scheveningen is a family paradise with a host of activities that cater to all ages, making it perfect for a fun-filled day by the sea. Start with a walk along the iconic Scheveningen Beach, where families can enjoy sandy shores ideal for beach games, building sandcastles, and dipping toes in the North Sea. Along the beach, De Pier is a highlight, featuring a mix of shops, eateries, and an arcade that will keep kids entertained for hours.

The pier also has a spectacular Ferris wheel, offering panoramic views of the coast, and for adventurous families, there’s even a bungee jumping option. For a unique underwater adventure, Sea Life Scheveningen is a must-visit; here, you can explore ocean habitats, walk through underwater tunnels, and even meet sea creatures like sharks, turtles, and playful otters up close, with interactive feedings and talks.

Next, head to Muzee Scheveningen, a local museum where children can learn about the fishing heritage of Scheveningen, complete with historical artifacts, colorful displays, and hands-on exhibits that make learning fun and engaging. If the weather is nice, Scheveningen’s Family Park Drievliet offers classic amusement rides, roller coasters, and water attractions that suit a wide range of ages, giving both thrilling and gentle experiences.

Art-loving families should visit Beelden aan Zee, a unique seaside sculpture museum with an impressive outdoor collection and a “fairy tale forest” that kids find magical. Afterward, explore The Boulevard, where a variety of shops and eateries cater to every taste, making it easy to grab a snack, rent bikes, or enjoy Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes.

To wrap up the day, a family-friendly sunset cruise offers a scenic and relaxing end to your beach day, with beautiful views of the sea and Scheveningen’s skyline from the water. Whether it’s the attractions, the ocean fun, or the blend of local culture and thrilling activities, Scheveningen offers endless enjoyment and adventure for families.

Delft: A Tapestry of History and Art

Delft is a charming and historic city brimming with family-friendly activities, perfect for a full day of exploration and fun. Begin in the heart of Delft’s old town, where everyone can enjoy the picturesque canals and traditional Dutch architecture. A visit to the Royal Delft factory is a must, as it’s one of the last places where authentic Delft Blue pottery is still made. The factory tour offers hands-on workshops where visitors can try painting their own tiles, making it a memorable experience and providing a unique souvenir.

From there, the Vermeer Centrum Delft offers an interactive dive into the life and works of painter Johannes Vermeer, complete with exhibits that allow visitors to learn about his techniques and even step into replicas of his famous scenes, making for an engaging experience. Delft’s Science Centre is another exciting stop, filled with hands-on exhibits and creative workshops focused on engineering, robotics, and sustainable energy; visitors can experiment with design challenges, models, and more.

After an active morning, a picnic or leisurely walk in the serene Delftse Hout, a large recreational park, is ideal. Here, groups can rent boats, enjoy the park’s natural beauty, or explore its various scenic paths and picnic spots. For a new perspective on the city, a canal tour provides an excellent way to view Delft’s historic architecture while learning more about its rich history, all from the relaxing vantage point of the water. Later, a visit to Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) on the Market Square provides a chance to climb the tower for breathtaking views of Delft and the surrounding countryside.

If visiting in the summer, don’t miss the farmers’ market or local food stalls offering classic Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes, adding a delicious touch to the day. Art lovers may also appreciate De Delftse Pauw, a smaller pottery studio where visitors can learn about traditional pottery techniques in a cozy setting. This adds a special, hands-on experience to any visit. For a calming end to the day, consider visiting a nearby petting farm where visitors can interact with friendly animals like goats, rabbits, and ponies—just one more way to connect with Delft’s welcoming atmosphere and enjoy a peaceful, nature-filled experience. Read more about Delft in this article.

Leiden: Scholarly Pursuits and Quintessential Dutch Scenes

Leiden offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that make it ideal for a full day of exploration, learning, and enjoyment. Start with a visit to Naturalis Biodiversity Center, a renowned natural history museum that captivates with its impressive dinosaur skeletons, extensive fossil collections, and interactive exhibits on wildlife, geology, and ecosystems. Visitors can wander through immersive exhibits, marvel at the life-size T. rex, and explore scientific discoveries that span millions of years.

Next, stroll through the historic city center and its scenic canals, where a canal boat tour offers a relaxing way to see Leiden’s picturesque streets and learn about its history as a key Dutch university city. The Botanical Garden (Hortus Botanicus), one of the oldest in Europe, is another highlight, providing a peaceful space to enjoy unique plant collections, rare species, and a lovely greenhouse featuring tropical flora. It’s a tranquil spot to explore winding paths or enjoy a quiet lunch surrounded by beautiful greenery.

For those interested in space and science, the Rijksmuseum Boerhaave is an engaging stop, featuring fascinating exhibits on Dutch scientific history, including astronomy, medicine, and physics, with interactive elements like hands-on science experiments and displays about scientific breakthroughs that originated in the Netherlands. Art and history enthusiasts will appreciate the Museum de Lakenhal, Leiden’s fine arts and history museum, with works from Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, alongside exhibits that delve into the city’s rich textile history. To take a break in a refreshing open space, Leidse Hout park is an excellent choice, with open lawns, scenic walking paths, and a cozy café perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Leiden also offers a bustling market along the Nieuwe Rijn canal every Wednesday and Saturday, where local goods, Dutch delicacies, and fresh produce are available, making it a vibrant spot to sample regional treats and pick up unique souvenirs. As evening approaches, the city’s many canal-side restaurants offer a welcoming place to unwind, providing diverse dining options with views over the water, creating a perfect end to a day spent exploring the history, beauty, and science of Leiden.

Kinderdijk: Windmills and Waterways

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinderdijk is a mesmerizing landscape of 19 traditional windmills set against the backdrop of lush polders and waterways. These windmills, built in the 18th century, were designed to manage water levels and prevent flooding. Take a guided tour to learn about the engineering marvels and the significance of these windmills in Dutch history. Cycling or walking along the trails offers an up-close experience of this serene and picturesque location.

Gouda: Cheese, Culture, and Traditions

Gouda, renowned for its delectable cheese, invites visitors to explore its quaint streets and historic market square. Every Thursday morning, the city comes alive with the traditional Gouda Cheese Market, where locals and tourists gather to witness the age-old cheese-trading rituals. The towering Sint Janskerk (St. John’s Church) boasts an awe-inspiring collection of stained glass windows, and the Gouda Museum offers insights into the city’s history and artistic heritage.

Conclusion

The province of South Holland presents an irresistible blend of historical significance, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. From the metropolitan allure of Rotterdam and The Hague to the enchanting charm of Delft, each destination offers a unique facet of Dutch heritage and modern vibrancy. With its windmills, canals, museums, and markets, Southern Holland promises an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of the Netherlands’ captivating spirit.

Best Places to visit in Southern Holland by Public Transport – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of public transport do you recommend?
Definitely the train and the subway and metro in the major cities.

Why would you prefer public transport instead of a rental car?
The major cities are prone for traffic jams. It also saves the stress during the road trip. You can enjoy the scenery more during the trip and its just as fast.

Is it possible to visit all these places in one day?
No, time flies when you are having fun. You are better off seeing a maximum of two places per day.