The Netherlands is a popular vacation destination for all sorts of travelers. From its unique landmarks, beautiful villages, and incredible Dutch food, it’s easy to see why the Netherlands draws so many visitors.
One of the best ways to experience all that the Netherlands has to offer is to rent an apartment or house instead of a hotel room. Vacation rentals offer a better opportunity for you to see how the Dutch people live. Plus, they give you more room to spread out.
Rentals typically also include amenities that you rarely find in hotel rooms, such as fully equipped kitchens and multiple bedrooms or a master bedroom with a private bathroom, free WiFi, and a private living room/lounge area. Some luxury apartments even offer things like an indoor pool, hot tub, and/or sauna!
And you’ve got so many places to choose from when it comes to finding great places to stay! From hamlets to major cities, you’ll find warm and welcoming accommodations all over the Netherlands.
The Dutch capital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands’ largest city, is home to some of the world’s best museums and has a charming old-world feel to it. Rotterdam, a major port city in South Holland, boasts a historic and fascinating old harbor and a host of museums.
Plus, the iconic Kinderdijk windmills are located just outside of town. Beach lovers will enjoy the country’s many North Sea waterfront resort towns near The Hague.
Interested? Of course you are! Read on to see some of the best vacation rental listings in the Netherlands, as well as top tips, info on our favorite rental agencies, and more vacation ideas!
Best Vacation Rentals in The Netherlands
1. This 17th Century Canal Apartment in Amsterdam
Take a leap back in time without sacrificing modern conveniences when you rent this beautifully furnished canal-front apartment in the Jordaan neighborhood of Amsterdam.
You’ll be within walking distance of popular attractions like the Anne Frank Museum, Dam Square, and the Van Gogh Museum. This one-bedroom, one-bath unit sleeps two persons and is pet-friendly. You’ll have a full kitchen, a canal view, and an outdoor space to enjoy the temperate Dutch weather.
If you’re seeking historic Dutch charm, this is a great vacation rental apartment for you. There are wooden beams, exposed brick walls, and a tile fireplace. Don’t worry, though.
The unit has modern conveniences like free WiFi and a sauna. We think the most special element of this Amsterdam rental is the classic wooden “garden boat,” where you can sit moored along the canal and watch the boats go by.
See Related: Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Areas & Places
2. This Houseboat Rental in Old Amsterdam
If you want to be even closer to the water, consider this outwardly unassuming houseboat rental. Moored along one of the most romantic and peaceful canals in Amsterdam, it drips with fab decor and is surrounded by 17th-century architecture, making for stunning views.
The boat has one bedroom with a king-size bed and a ceiling window, ideal for watching the stars at night. Although the boat is rooted in Belle Epoque, it offers free WiFi and a small modern kitchen, along with a full bath.
This houseboat is centrally located, just a two-minute walk from Centraal Station and within walking or cycling distance of shops and top restaurants.
3. A Luxury “Mansion” in Amsterdam
If you are craving a luxury apartment in Amsterdam, this two-bedroom, one-bath baby mansion fits the bill. Ideal for two couples or a small family, this canal-front vacation rental is within a short walk of Amsterdam Central Station, the Anne Frank House, and other popular attractions like the Royal Palace Amsterdam.
The unit is pet-friendly and offers a full kitchen with a separate dining area and a washer and dryer. Luxury touches include floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the canal, crystal chandeliers, a wood-burning fireplace, and a bathroom towel warmer.
See Related: Famous Landmarks in Amsterdam to Visit
4. This Award-Winning Rotterdam Townhouse
Located near Rotterdam city center, within a two-minute walk from dozens of shops and restaurants, this funky, modern top-floor apartment has two bedrooms, each with a queen bed. There is a private bathroom with a bathtub and shower, plus a small kitchen with two refrigerators and a microwave.
Although this unit is only accessible via steep Dutch stairs (they’re the tallest nation on Earth; everyone here has long legs and deep strides), you’ll be rewarded for your climb with a spectacular view of the property’s garden and the city beyond.
There’s also a small balcony. It’s the perfect place to sit outside and sip your morning coffee.
Best of all, the landlords want their guests to experience all that their city has to offer. To this end, they include a half-day sightseeing tour for all guests!
5. Modern Harborfront Apartment in Scheveningen
If you want to be near the water with great access to The Hague, this two-bedroom, one-bath, comfy-chic unit in Scheveningen will captivate you. The unit sleeps five, with three twin beds in one bedroom and two twin beds in the other.
A fully-equipped kitchen, wireless internet access, and a washer and dryer will help make your stay care-free. All the action on the waterfront is just outside your windows, and Kijkduin Beach is just a short walk.
The balcony, with a small table and chairs, is ideal for watching the boats pull in and out of the marina. The spacious living area gives everyone room to spread out and enjoy a good book or one of the provided puzzles.
See Related: Best Beaches in the Netherlands to Visit
6. A Canal House in The Hague
The Hague makes a great base camp for exploring The Netherlands. In The Hague, you’re near the coast and the cities of Delft and Rotterdam. The one-bedroom, one-bath canal house offers plenty of Dutch charm combined with subtlety-hidden modern amenities.
This vacation rental has historic architectural elements like wainscoting, crown moldings, and multi-pane, floor-to-ceiling windows. For comfort and ease, there is WiFi, a modern kitchen with a dishwasher, a flat-screen TV, and a full bath. There’s even a piano!
You can enjoy the outdoors from the small but well-appointed patio. The Canal House is within walking distance of many of The Hague’s attractions and is just a five-minute walk to the train station, where you can catch a 20-minute direct train to the coast.
7. This Seaside Condo in Zandvoort
What’s better than a full, unobstructed view of the beach and the North Sea beyond? That’s what you get in this unique seaside condo right on the water in Zandvoort.
This cozy studio unit sleeps two and has one-and-a-half baths. There’s a kitchenette, twin beds, and a dedicated work area.
But, the best part of staying here is the floor-to-ceiling view of the sea, where you can view sunsets, daytrippers and families out flying kites. Parking, WiFi, and Netflix are included in the rental price.
Zandvoort’s city center is just a leisurely 10-minute walk. There you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants and even a nightclub or two.
The train station is a 12-minute walk from the condo. It’s just a 30-minute train ride from Zandvoort to Amsterdam.
See Related: Best Weekend Trips from Amsterdam: Top Getaway Options
8. This Cottage in Beers
If your idea of the perfect Netherlands vacation is a trip to the countryside, this cottage in Beers is a good choice. It’s located in the east-central part of the country. This two-bedroom cottage sleeps four people.
What makes it unique is its spectacular setting, at the edge of an orchard and the Kraaijenberg Lakes. The cottage, which was just built in 2020, has a full kitchen, dining area, and living room that opens onto a spacious veranda.
The cottage comes with free WiFi, free Netflix, and free parking. There are also four bikes available for guests to explore the nearby nature reserve.
9. An Authentic Windmill Outside Amsterdam
What’s more Dutch than staying in a windmill? That’s what you can experience in this whimsical three-bedroom, three-bath rental in Abcoude, just a few miles from Amsterdam. This structure is set in a green field by a meandering stream with sweeping views of glorious Dutch countryside.
There are three floors of wonderfully-appointed living space, with double beds in each of the three bedrooms. In addition, there is a living room overlooking the countryside, a full kitchen, and a dedicated workspace.
See Related: Amsterdam Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Volendam and Marken
For a healthy dose of Dutch history, this rental house in Maarssen is a superb choice. This one-of-a-kind, two-bedroom, 1.5-bath house sits directly on the de Veecht River and sleeps five persons.
The house was built to mirror the classic teahouses of the 17th century that were built with expensive adornments to show the neighbors that you could afford tea. This teahouse features a basement living room, a galley kitchen, a bath with a claw-foot tub, and a sweeping adjacent lawn.
Historic touches include wooden beams, classic porcelain fixtures, and antique furnishings. You can reach the house by land or by boat, and there are mooring spaces available for guests. Extra amenities include a washing machine and dryer, air conditioning, WiFi, and free parking.
11. A Forest Ranger’s Home in De Pan Nature Reserve
For romantic and relaxing accommodation, choose this forest ranger’s home, located in Maarheeze in the southern part of The Netherlands, near the Belgian border. This two-bedroom cottage is surrounded by nature and would make a perfect honeymoon (or second honeymoon) retreat.
Hiking and biking routes are within an easy walk, and the cottage has its own garden where you can relax and enjoy the spectacular setting. Deer often visit the front yard, and horseback riders and horse-drawn wagons occasionally pass by.
If you arrive at the right time during the late spring, the back patio erupts with color as the wisteria on the pergola comes into bloom. It’s truly beautiful.
The cottage sleeps three, with a double bed in one room and a single bed in the other. There’s a bare-bones kitchen with all you need to prepare small meals and a bath with a shower.
See Related: Netherlands Itinerary: How to Plan a 7-10 Day Visit
12. TinyParks Forest Cabins
For family-friendly accommodation in the forest, we suggest TinyParks Forest Cabin rentals. These small, well-equipped cabins are air-conditioned, have a full kitchen, and sleep four in two bedrooms.
The setting is perfect for nature lovers. It’s at the edge of a private forest that is home to abundant wildlife and plant life.
The complex offers plenty of things for everyone in the family to enjoy. There’s a community swimming pool, a playground, and lots of hiking and biking trails. TinyParks is located about 17 miles from Groningen.
13. A Classy 17th-Century Canal Apartment in Amsterdam
Brick walls, hand-hewn oak beams, and a classic Dutch facade greet you at this classic canal apartment in Amsterdam. The first-floor unit sleeps two on two twin beds and has a bathroom with a shower.
The best part of this apartment is the view. The fascinating canal life is just a few feet from your windows.
There’s no kitchen, but the location is within an easy walk of many different types of eateries. The furnishings are upscale and include Dutch antiques and Persian-style rugs. Amenities include a coffeemaker and WiFi.
See Related: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam, Netherlands
14. A Luxurious Waterfront Villa
Located near the small town of Arnemuiden, in the Zeeland region of The Netherlands, this luxurious, four-bedroom villa sits right on Lake Veere and has its own private jetty. The villa sleeps eight, with double beds in three of the bedrooms and twin bunk beds in a fourth bedroom.
There are 1.5 baths, which, in this case, means there is one bath with just a shower and one with both a toilet and a shower. What gives the villa its luxurious feel, in addition to the beautiful waterfront setting, is high-end fixtures, floors, kitchen appliances, and lighting.
Everything here is new and modern, and a sliding glass door opens up to the patio, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living. You’ll feel like you’re living in luxury.
15. A Modern Seaside Chalet Near The Hague
Complete with its own mini lighthouse, this crisp, modern chalet on the beach in Noordwijk is ideal for families looking for a seaside vacation. With sand and beach scrub right outside the front door, it really doesn’t get much more sun, sand, sea, and surf than it does here!
Featuring bright, modern decor, a spotless kitchen, dining and living space, an outdoor patio, and room for six, this beachfront property is just a short hop from The Hague. It’s also pretty close to EuroParcs Parc du Soleil resort and all the amazing amenities within!
See Related: Best Cities in the Netherlands to Visit
16. A Luxurious Holiday Villa on the Water
For your own slice of vacation heaven, look no further than this vacation villa in Roelofarendsveen. Sandwiched between Leiden and Amsterdam, this bright, airy villa sits on the banks of the Paddegat waterway, allowing you the opportunity to fish or take a dip. You can even consider renting a kayak and paddling around Lake Braassemermeer.
This last rental really favors those who prefer the calm of the countryside, but it’s just a skip and a jump from the action in Amsterdam. There’s a gorgeous patio here and room for six, making this an ideal choice for friends’ trips or family vacations.
See Related: How Many Days Do You Need in Amsterdam?
Advice for Renting Accommodations in The Netherlands
Consider the length of your stay
If you’re staying a month or less, a vacation rental is for you, but if you’re planning something more long-term, you’re going to want to look into a letting agency. The housing situation in the Netherlands is pretty contested and tough for novices to navigate.
Be warned: a letting agent’s fee will normally be equivalent to one month’s rent for the property you settle on. Agencies are pretty tight-knit and self-regulating, so don’t expect to find anyone cutting you any deals.
Study the location
Most rental sites don’t give you the property’s exact address until you’ve confirmed your reservation and made a deposit. That can lead to false assumptions based on the pictures and the general description. If you want to be within walking distance of a certain attraction or if you need a property located in a specific neighborhood, make sure to discuss it with the host before you confirm your reservation.
Don’t rely solely on the photos
Landlords generally try to portray their rental home or apartment from the best possible angle. This can lead to photos that omit undesirable elements, like an industrial site next door, or hide the small size of the rooms.
Photos are just one tool to use when making your decision. Use guest reviews and your interaction with the host to give you a more complete feel for the property.
Don’t assume you’ll have a certain amenity
Read through the list of what’s included with the property rental. Rentals in The Netherlands aren’t likely to have all the things you generally find with a property rental in the United States. This might include things like a coffee maker, a king bed, a jacuzzi, or free parking.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Life’s changing circumstances can derail even the most secure travel plans. An illness or death in the family can cause you to cancel your trip and your Netherlands vacation rental at the last minute, maybe within the non-refundable period. Check out some of our favorite insurance providers here, or search TravelInsurance.com for the right package to protect you if you have to cancel for a covered reason.
FAQs
What types of house rentals are available in The Netherlands?
Vacation rentals in The Netherlands come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll find tiny houses, expansive country homes, cozy beach cottages, city center apartments, and tree houses. You’ll even see a converted church and a couple of houseboats. Everyone’s definition of a house rental is somewhat different, and the current vacation rental market has something for everyone.
Is staying in a house rental a good option for families visiting the Netherlands?
A house rental in the Netherlands is a particularly good choice for families. Generally, you get more room with a house rental, and you’ll have amenities, such as a fully equipped kitchen and a dining table, to make meals easier and less expensive than dining out.
What are the best websites for finding house rentals in the Netherlands?
Among the best rental agencies to use when looking for vacation rentals in the Netherlands include VRBO and Airbnb. Dutch-based Booking.com is also a great resource for finding holiday rentals in the Netherlands.
How do I book a house rental in the Netherlands?
Booking a vacation rental in the Netherlands is easy, especially when you work with one of the major booking agencies, such as VRBO, Airbnb, or Booking.com.
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Kyle Kroeger is the Founder and Owner of ViaTravelers.com. He is a seasoned traveler and entrepreneur. Kyle started ViaTravelers.com to help travelers find their next adventure, whether it’s exploring new places or revisiting old favorites.
He’s a converted finance nerd and Excel jockey turned world wonderer (and may try to get lost on purpose). He loves listening to people’s stories from around the world as well as sharing his own experiences traveling the globe. He loves travel so much that he moved from his hometown of Minneapolis to Amsterdam with his small family to travel Europe full-time.
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