Top 10 Hidden Gems Things to do in The Netherlands, The Netherlands

If the idea of a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon learning about the history and production of Brabant’s most authentic herb liqueur appeals to you, then visit the Schrobbeler distillery. On an interesting tour under the proverbial smoke of Tilburg, you will learn all about this – by the producer’s own modest account – “valued atmosphere enhancer”. Introduced during Carnival in 1973, Schrobbeler has always maintained a strong link with this fun annual festival. Learn all there is to know about Schrobbeler – with the exception of the family secret of course – on one of the fun guided tours. Smile, warmth and friendship Tickets for one of the open tours at 1.30pm on Saturday or Sunday can be booked at schrobbeler.nl. Groups of fifteen people or more can also book on other days and times. And it’ll be well worth it, as confirmed by one guest: “We had a very enjoyable but also successful afternoon. The staff are friendly and were keen to tell us about the history of Schrobbeler. ''

Reconstruction of a 17th century trading ship called Batavia, which sank in 1628 on its first voyage. At the Bataviawerf the ship is reconstructed in authentic ways. On the shipyard there are several handcrafts still active and can be visited. A visit to the Bataviawerf is a nice daytrip for the whole family.

The National Museum of Antiquities is housed in an old monumental building and ‘Begijnhof’. It is the Dutch centre for archaeology. A large part of the collection consists of objects related to ancient Egypt. Unique is the two thousand year old Egyptian temple in the central hall of the museum. Besides ancient Egypt, the museum covers the Middle East, the Classical world and the early history of the Netherlands. The entire collection consists of more than 80,000 objects, including statues of Roman emperors, Etruscan tomb finds and mummies.

THE LONGEST CHURCH OF THE NETHERLANDS The great fire of 1552 destroyed much of the medieval church of Saint John. Shortly after the disaster, the council commissioned the reconstruction of the most startling church of Holland. With 123 meters it is also the longest church in The Netherlands THE 72 STAINED-GLASS WINDOWS ARE WORLD-FAMOUS Entering the Church of St. John, one falls silent at the sight of the majestic space with the 72 world-famous stained-glass windows. That first experience will only get stronger when you see the marvellous light by the 'Dutch Masters' invading the Church. The rich history of Holland can be read in the large windows. It is a beginning of an impressive discovery along biblical and historical scenes of human emotions. Then you understand that the Gouda St. John is one of the highest rated attractions in the Netherlands!

Museum Speelklok, the most cheerful museum in the Netherlands! During a visit to the typical Dutch Museum Speelklok, cheerful live music will surround you from centuries-old self-playing musical instruments. The history of these instruments started back in 16th century the Netherlands with the use of church carillons. Over the centuries, the general desire of people to be surrounded by music, led to the invention of all sorts of self-playing musical instruments: musical clocks, musical boxes, orchestrions (self-playing orchestras) and the traditional Dutch street organs. All of these instruments, including the famous street organ named Arabier and the so-called 8th world wonder the Violina, can be admired and heard during the lively museum tour. Thanks to the highly skilled Restoration Workshop, the collection is kept playing and this craft can be passed on from this generation to the next.

The Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum) takes you back into the past of every day life of ordinairy Dutch people. The museum lies in a beautiful park on the outskirts of the vibrant city of Arnhem. There is so much to see. Meet the museum staff who appear to have stepped straight out of the past. Proud of their heritage they will inspire you with their stories. For young and old alike, a visit to the museum is an unforgettable experience. Feast your senses on stories, smells, flavours and images that will take you back to days gone by. Whatever your age, the living history will make a lasting impression, bringing back memories and astonishing you by turns. Immerse yourself in the past and get to know the Dutch people and their history.