Cities to visit in the Netherlands

1. Amsterdam

As the capital city, Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures, attracting millions of tourists annually. Its iconic canals, historic museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, and a lively nightlife make it a top destination, check out our guide to Amsterdam for the best highlights in town. For students, institutions like the University of Amsterdam provide world-class education. Expats are drawn to its diverse job market, especially in finance and technology, and its high English proficiency facilitates a smooth transition. The city has a population of approximately 750,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,800 per month, not cheap but chances are high that you will have a nice canal view. By the way from Amsterdam it’s an easy daytrip to Zaanse Schans (windmills) or de Keukenhof (dutch tulip fields).

2. Rotterdam

Known for its modern architecture and one of the world’s largest ports, Rotterdam stands as a testament to Dutch resilience and innovation. The city’s Erasmus University is renowned, attracting international students. Expats find ample opportunities in logistics, maritime, and creative industries. The vibrant cultural scene, including festivals and art exhibitions, adds to its allure. Rotterdam has a population of about 600,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €1,000 to €1,200 per month. Much cheaper than Amsterdam!

3. The Hague

The Hague, or ‘Den Haag‘, is the political heart of the Netherlands, housing the Dutch government and the International Court of Justice. Tourists appreciate its rich history at the city center and are always in proximity to the amazing Scheveningen beach. Institutions like Leiden University College (yes they have a department here with the focus on politics) attract students, while expats often find employment in international law, politics, and various NGOs. The city has a population of approximately 480,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,200 per month.

4. Utrecht

Often dubbed the ‘beating heart’ of the Netherlands, Utrecht’s medieval old town, scenic canals, and the Dom Tower captivate visitors. Utrecht University, one of the oldest in the country, offers a wide range of programs, making it a student hub. Its central location and thriving economy make it appealing to expats, especially in the education and healthcare sectors. Utrecht has a population of about 370,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately €1,150 per month.

5. Eindhoven

Eindhoven, known as the ‘City of Light’ due to its ties with Philips, is a hub for technology and design. The Eindhoven University of Technology attracts engineering students worldwide. Expats are drawn to its innovative environment, with numerous tech companies and startups. The annual GLOW festival showcases the city’s dedication to light art and technology. The city has a population of approximately 210,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,100 per month.

6. Maastricht

Nestled in the southernmost part of the country, Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. Its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant culinary scene make it a tourist favorite. Maastricht University offers international programs, attracting students globally. The city’s strategic location near Belgium and Germany adds to its cosmopolitan feel. Maastricht has a population of about 125,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately €1,000 per month.

7. Groningen

Groningen, often referred to as the “Metropolis of the North,” is a lively city with a significant student population, thanks to the University of Groningen. This youthful energy permeates the city’s vibrant cultural scene, including music festivals and art exhibitions. For expats, Groningen offers opportunities in education, research, and a growing tech sector. The city has a population of approximately 240,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,100 per month.

8. Leiden

Leiden, the birthplace of Rembrandt, is steeped in history and culture. Its canals, museums, and the oldest university in the Netherlands make it a charming destination. Students flock to Leiden University for its esteemed programs. The city’s proximity to The Hague and Amsterdam provides expats with diverse job opportunities while enjoying a quieter lifestyle. Leiden has a population of about 120,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately €1,000 per month.

9. Delft

Famous for its blue pottery and as the hometown of painter Johannes Vermeer, Delft exudes Dutch charm. The Delft University of Technology is a leading institution, especially in engineering and technology fields. The city’s blend of historic beauty and innovation attracts both tourists and professionals. Delft has a population of approximately 100,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,000 per month.

10. Haarlem

Located near Amsterdam, Haarlem offers a more relaxed atmosphere with historic architecture, boutique shops, and the renowned Teylers Museum. Its proximity to the coast makes it appealing to tourists. While not a major student city, its quality of life and accessibility to larger cities make it attractive to expats seeking a balance between work and leisure. The city has a population of approximately 150,000. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,000 per month.

11. Nijmegen

Considered the oldest city in the Netherlands, Nijmegen has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It played a key role in World War II and is famous for the annual Four Days Marches, the largest multiple-day walking event in the world. Nijmegen is home to Radboud University, known for its strong research programs, making it a major student hub. Expats are drawn to the city’s healthcare, education, and IT sectors. With around 180,000 residents, Nijmegen offers a lower cost of living compared to larger cities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,000 per month, making it an affordable option for students and professionals alike.

12. Tilburg

Tilburg, once an industrial powerhouse known for its textile industry, has transformed into a cultural and creative hub. With a population of about 225,000, it is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands. Tilburg University attracts a diverse student population, and the city is known for its vibrant music festivals, such as Roadburn and the Incubate Festival. Expats find job opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, and creative industries. The cost of living in Tilburg is relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing approximately €950 per month. Its central location in the Netherlands provides easy access to other major cities.

13. Breda

Breda is a historic city with a lively cultural scene and a strong military history. With around 185,000 residents, it is known for its beautiful city center, historic castles, and the annual Breda Jazz Festival. Breda University of Applied Sciences attracts international students, particularly in hospitality, gaming, and media studies. The city is also home to several international companies, making it appealing for expats. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €1,000 per month, and the cost of living is lower compared to Amsterdam or The Hague.

14. Arnhem

Arnhem, famous for the Battle of Arnhem during World War II, offers a mix of history, nature, and modern living. The city has about 163,000 residents and is known for the Veluwe National Park, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. ArtEZ University of the Arts attracts creative students from around the world. Expats find opportunities in the energy sector, fashion industry, and logistics. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €950 per month, making it a relatively affordable city with a high quality of life.

15. Zwolle

Zwolle, the capital of the Overijssel province, is a charming city with a well-preserved medieval center. It has a population of about 130,000 and is known for its vibrant food scene, including the Michelin-starred restaurant De Librije. Windesheim University of Applied Sciences makes Zwolle an attractive destination for students. Expats working in the agri-food sector and logistics find many opportunities here. The cost of living is lower than in the Randstad region, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center renting for about €900 per month.

16. Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden, the capital of Friesland, has a unique cultural identity, with Frisian as an official language alongside Dutch. The city was the European Capital of Culture in 2018 and has a thriving arts and music scene. With a population of about 123,000, it offers a mix of historical charm and modern innovation. NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences attracts international students. Expats often work in the water technology sector, as Leeuwarden is a leader in this industry. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for about €850 per month, making it one of the more affordable major cities in the Netherlands.

17. Amersfoort

Amersfoort is a well-preserved medieval city with a strategic location in the center of the Netherlands. It has about 160,000 residents and is known for its picturesque canals and historic buildings. The city is not a major university hub, but it offers excellent transport connections to Utrecht and Amsterdam, making it ideal for students and expats who commute. The local economy is strong in healthcare, finance, and business services. The cost of living is moderate, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around €1,100 per month.

18. Apeldoorn

Apeldoorn is a green city, home to the royal palace Het Loo and surrounded by forests and parks. It has a population of about 165,000 and offers a high quality of life with a slower pace compared to the Randstad. While not a major student city, it has vocational institutions and is close to universities in Arnhem and Nijmegen. Expats find opportunities in IT, healthcare, and public administration. The cost of living is reasonable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center renting for around €900 per month.

19. Den Bosch (’s-Hertogenbosch)

Den Bosch is a vibrant city with a rich history, lively arts scene, and famous local cuisine, including the “Bossche Bol,” a chocolate-covered pastry. It has about 156,000 residents and is known for its annual Carnival celebrations. The city hosts a campus of Avans University of Applied Sciences, attracting students in business and applied sciences. Expats often work in agrifood, logistics, and the creative industry. The cost of living is moderate, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around €1,000 per month.

20. Enschede

Enschede, located near the German border, is home to the University of Twente, known for its engineering and technology programs. It is also close to Hengelo and Almelo, two noteworthy cities in the country. The city has about 159,000 residents and offers a dynamic student life. Expats are drawn to its growing tech industry, cross-border business opportunities, and affordable cost of living. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for around €900 per month, making it one of the most affordable university cities in the Netherlands.

21. Gouda

Famous for its cheese market and historic center, Gouda offers a quintessential Dutch experience. Did you know it’s almost the lowest part of the Netherlands? The polder between Zoetermeer, Waddinxveen, Pijnacker and Gouda are roughly -6 meters below sea level, how crazy is that! The city has about 74,000 residents and is known for its charming canals and medieval architecture. While not a major student hub, its proximity to Rotterdam and Utrecht provides educational opportunities. Expats appreciate the quality of life and accessibility to larger job markets. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €950 per month.

22. Alkmaar

Alkmaar is famous for its traditional cheese market and historic old town. From Alkmaar it’s just one hop to Den Helder where you can take the ferry to Texel, one of the Wadden islands. With a population of about 110,000, it is a charming city with a strong tourism sector. Inholland University of Applied Sciences has a campus here, attracting students in creative industries and business studies. Expats find opportunities in tourism, retail, and the creative sector. The cost of living is moderate, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center renting for around €1,000 per month.

23. Dordrecht

As the oldest city in Holland, Dordrecht is a hidden gem with a rich maritime history, stunning old harbors, and a vibrant arts scene. It has about 119,000 residents and is well-connected to Rotterdam. While it doesn’t have a major university, vocational institutions and proximity to Rotterdam provide opportunities for students and expats. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €1,000 per month.

24. Hoorn

Hoorn, once a major trading city, retains its historic charm with old merchant houses, canals, and a beautiful harbor. It’s close to the famous village of Giethoorn.The city has about 74,000 residents and is just 30 minutes from Amsterdam, making it ideal for commuters. The cost of living is relatively low, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around €950 per month.

25. Middelburg

Middelburg, the capital of Zeeland, offers a unique mix of history and coastal beauty. Easy perfect getaways escapes from here are Domburg, Veere, Vlissingen and Goes for example. With about 48,000 residents, it is smaller than many other Dutch cities but has a lively student population thanks to University College Roosevelt. The cost of living is moderate, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center renting for around €900 per month.