Below Sea Level

About one-third of the Netherlands lies below sea level, protected by a sophisticated system of dikes, dams, and polders to prevent flooding.

Bicycle Capital of the World

The Netherlands has more bicycles than people, and cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are famous for their bike-friendly infrastructure.

Windmills and Tulips

Iconic images of the Netherlands include its historic windmills, especially in Kinderdijk, and vibrant tulip fields that bloom each spring, notably around Keukenhof Gardens.

Innovators in Water Management

The Dutch are global leaders in water engineering and flood control, exporting their expertise to countries worldwide.

Home of The Hague

The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government and home to the International Court of Justice, making the Netherlands a center for international law and diplomacy.

Dutch Masters of Art

The Netherlands is the birthplace of legendary artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, and Mondrian, and has world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.

Liberal and Progressive Values

The Netherlands was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001 and is known for its progressive social policies.

Multilingual Society

While Dutch is the official language, many Dutch people speak excellent English, and other regional languages like Frisian are also recognized.

Kingdom with Overseas Territories

The Netherlands is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which includes Caribbean territories such as Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.

Delicious Dutch Treats

Dutch cuisine includes popular snacks like stroopwafels, bitterballen, herring, and poffertjes, often enjoyed at local markets and festivals.