I've lived in the Netherlands for 15 years. These 4 cities have canals and culture — and fewer crowds than Amsterdam.
A long-term resident of Amsterdam suggests four alternative Dutch cities for travelers looking to avoid the city's growing tourist crowds. The recommendations focus on cities like Utrecht and Zutphen, which offer similar historic charm, canals, and culture without the intense congestion.
Why it matters
It addresses the growing issue of over-tourism in major European hubs and provides practical alternatives for sustainable travel.
Zutphen is full of gorgeous architecture that always makes me feel transported back in time. Dana Marin I've lived in Amsterdam for over a decade, and I love it here — but it can get packed with tourists. When friends ask for off-the-beaten-path recommendations, I recommend four other Dutch cities. Utrecht is an easy day trip from Amsterdam, and Zutphen has tons of history and culture. I've loved Amsterdam since my first visit as a tourist — so much so that 15 years ago, I moved here. As someone who now calls Amsterdam home, I'm the first to admit you won't find another city quite like this in the Netherlands. In recent years, however, I've noticed that the crowds coming to adore Amsterdam just keep growing. It feels like everywhere I turn, there's someone else snapping the same photo I was planning to.
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