The Netherlands
The Netherlands has so many worthwhile places and attractions to visit, a comprehensive and well-constructed itinerary can easily be created. Alternatively, see the area from a different perspective and discover the history and impact of World War II on The Netherlands.
Curriculum Links:
Linked to KS3 & 4 Geography
PLACES TO VISIT
Alkmaar
Historic old town with traditional Cheese Market held every Friday morning (April to Sept) where the porters wear historical costumes.
Airborne Hartenstein Arnhem
Experience the Battle of Arnhem in this modern and very appealing museum. The Airborne Experience allows you to follow in the footsteps of British parachutists as they make their way to Arnhem in September 1944.
Camp Vught National Memorial
The Camp Vught National Memorial (Nationaal Monument Kamp Vught ) is located on part of the former SS camp Konzentrationslager Herzogenbusch, also known as Camp Vught.
The combined memorial centre and museum features various exhibitions, a memorial room and wall of reflection.
Westerbork Concentration Camp
The former World War II Nazi refugee, detention and transit camp is located just north of Westerbork, in north-eastern Netherlands.
The camp was originally built in 1939 by the Dutch Government to house refugees before the Nazis took over and turned it into a deportation camp for Jewish refugees.
Corpus
The world’s most unique and interactive attraction, with an ingenious sensory experience. Embark on a journey through the human body in an original and informative way.
Spido Cruise, Rotterdam
Take a 75 minute cruise around the busy international harbour and port to see the city from the vantage of a glass-roofed boat.
Kinderdijk
A well-preserved and fascinating gang of 19 windmills from the 18th century, built to drain the Alblasserwaard polders.
Delft
A beautiful medieval town famous for the manufacture of Delft Blue Pottery, a craft that is still practised today.
Euromast
From the top of the 185 metre high Euromast, enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Rotterdam, its port and surroundings.
Aalsmeer
The world’s largest flower auction (Monday to Friday mornings only), distributing 14 million flowers worldwide every day.
Vlissingen (Flushing)
Visit the Bunkerbehoud near Middelburg, a series of underground bunkers from the Second World War and accompanying museum.
Camp Amersfoort
Visit the site of the Nazi transfer camp used throughout the occupation to see the remaining ruins as well as the memorial and museum.
Madurodam
A Dutch city built to 1/25 of its actual scale. See a variety of buildings, including the Dutch Parliament (the Binnenhof) and Schiphol Airport.
Clara Maria Cheese Farm & Clog Factory
Corrie ten Boom Museum
The home of Corrie ten Boom is now a museum, perfectly situated in the centre of Haarlem. Much of the house has been refurbished to appear as it did in the 1940’s.
Visitors can see the actual “hiding place”– a small area behind a false wall in Corrie's bedroom.
Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam
Visit the site of Anne Frank’s house and learn about the persecution she, her family and friends endured during the war, told through her famous diary.
Efteling
One of Europe’s most visited amusement parks suitable for all ages, and where a world full of miracles becomes reality.
PLACES TO STAY
Stayokay Hostels
The hostel offers 574 beds across a range of room types, including two-, four-, six- and eight-bedded rooms, as well as larger dormitories. There is also one room equipped for wheelchair users (please enquire before booking).
All rooms are fitted with a shower, toilet and washbasin, along with free individual lockers (guests should bring their own padlock or purchase one at reception).
Additional facilities include a lobby area, free Wi-Fi, a laundrette, bike shelter, tourist information and discount tickets, electronic door locks, lockers and safes. Reception is open 24/7, and there is no curfew.
Hotel Aan Zee
Located in the coastal town of Noordwijk.
• Popular, family-run hotel
• Students in 2-4 bedded en suite rooms
• Staff in twin en suite rooms
• Pool table and table football
• Large dining room
Itinerary Example
Cultural visit to The Netherlands
DAY 1: Travel from school to channel coast for a crossing to Calais or Dunkirk and on to your accommodation in The Netherlands.
DAY 2: Full day sightseeing in the area, possible visits could include the historic town of Alkmaar and Amsterdam. Return to your accommodation for evening meal.
DAY 3: Full day sightseeing in the area, possible visits could include Rotterdam or one of the area’s theme parks (admissions not included). Return to your accommodation for evening meal.
DAY 4: Depart your accommodation centre after breakfast and travel to Calais or Dunkirk for return crossing and journey back to school.
World War II visit to The Netherlands
DAY 1: Travel from school to channel coast for a crossing to Calais or Dunkirk, and on to your accommodation in the Netherlands.
DAY 2: Full day sightseeing in the area. Why not spend the day visiting the numerous concentration camps? Return to your accommodation for evening meal.
DAY 3: Full day sightseeing in the area. Spend all day visiting sites around Amsterdam. Return to your accommodation for evening meal.
DAY 4: Depart your accommodation centre after breakfast and travel to Calais or Dunkirk for return crossing and journey back to school.