Beyond Amsterdam: Southern Netherlands in Style

Looking to explore the Netherlands beyond the usual Amsterdam hotspots? For LGBTQ+ travellers wanting a more refined, less touristy escape, the southern cities of The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft, and Schiedam offer a luxurious and authentic Dutch experience—with just the right mix of culture, design, and charm.

The Hague: Royal Charm & Cultural Riches

Known locally as Den Haag, The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government and royal family, offering a stately alternative to Amsterdam’s bohemian energy. Start your day at the Mauritshuis, a 17th-century mansion turned art museum, where Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt masterpieces are displayed in elegantly intimate rooms.

After your cultural fix, stroll the chic Denneweg and Hoogstraat, lined with antique shops, bespoke boutiques, and luxury goods. For a standout dinner, book a table at Calla’s, where the seasonal tasting menu blends Dutch ingredients with global flair.

Just a short tram ride away, the seaside district of Scheveningen offers a touch of glamour. Pop into the iconic Kurhaus for afternoon cocktails with North Sea views. For your stay, consider the historic Hotel Des Indes, a former palace with grand interiors, or The Collector, a modern boutique hotel with a playful art collection and central location.

Rotterdam: Bold Architecture & Urban Energy

Where The Hague is traditional and regal, Rotterdam is modern, edgy, and full of surprises. Rebuilt after WWII, the city has become a hub for bold architecture and contemporary design. Visit the Kunsthal, designed by Rem Koolhaas, for thought-provoking exhibitions in an innovative space.

Lunch at the stunning Markthal, a horseshoe-shaped food hall with sky-high murals and artisan stalls, is a must. Grab some local cheese, cured meats, and fresh pastries—or sit down for a full meal at one of the surrounding restaurants.

Don’t miss a water taxi ride across the Maas River for the best views of the skyline. End your night at Hotel New York, once the Holland America Line HQ, now home to a stylish bar where you can sip genever and watch the lights of the city reflect across the water.

Day Trips: Delft & Schiedam

Just between The Hague and Rotterdam, Delft is a quiet beauty. Wander canals, visit the Royal Delft factory, and try your hand at painting your own ceramic souvenir. For lunch, De Centrale serves refined Dutch cuisine in a converted power station. Wrap up with a peaceful canal cruise—champagne optional but recommended.

Nearby Schiedam is famous for its jenever (Dutch gin) heritage. Visit the National Jenever Museum, housed in a former distillery, and book a private tasting of rare spirits. Even without a drink, the town’s historic windmills and pretty streets make it well worth a visit.