The Wadden Islands, located in the north of the country, offer unique travel opportunities accessible by boat from Den Helder, Holwerd, Harlingen, or Lauwersoog. Whether you travel with a car, bicycle, or simply on foot, the journey itself provides a relaxing departure from daily life. Visitors can sample regional delicacies such as fresh fish, cakes, cheese, and local beers, enjoy extensive walks along wide beaches, and observe diverse birdlife. Whether you select Texel, Terschelling, Ameland, or visit several islands, these destinations provide an exceptional opportunity to unwind without leaving the country.
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"right","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/8191a04f-7ec7-4b85-b6d6-623c6dd4effb/Full-length-side-view-of-young-man-on-land","altTextEN":"\"","altTextNL":"\"","altTextFR":"\"","altTextDE":"\"","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/256d6d316f9eeb30/original/Full-length-side-view-of-young-man-on-land.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"12 provincial capitals we all learned about in school"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Gelderland is Arnhem; Groningen is Groningen; North Holland's capital is not Amsterdam, but Haarlem. Have you ever visited them all? It’s a fun challenge, whether you spread your trips out over the year or hop on a train and visit four, five, or six during summer vacation. From Maastricht to 's Hertogenbosch, Utrecht to Lelystad, each city has its own history, unique features, and must-see attractions. Once you've explored all of our capitals, you can set your sights on the capitals of Europe!
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"left","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/1094ca94-186d-4940-b3d5-058b830deb76/1014250508","altTextNL":"\"\"","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/758135632ce08a41/original/1014250508.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"People are wary of the unknown ..."},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"You might relate to this: when searching for a holiday, it's easy to fall back on your usual preferences. But what if you tried something completely different? Step outside your comfort zone and embrace new surprises and challenges. If you usually vacation by the sea, consider renting a cabin in the woods. If you prefer staying in the bustling Randstad, try visiting the countryside and stay in a charming village B&B. And if you normally travel with your whole family, why not take a solo day trip to a foreign city to experience true freedom?
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"right","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/b33fc22d-d85a-410f-a16e-9289e0e3e7a4/Two-young-children-sit-on-old-growth-tree-in-forest","altTextEN":"\"\"","altTextNL":"\"\"","altTextFR":"\"\"","altTextDE":"\"\"","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/52d82e8f7bad9a06/original/Two-young-children-sit-on-old-growth-tree-in-forest.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Three tips for Europe"},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Island hopping in the Greek Cyclades"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"If you’ve already explored the Wadden Islands and are craving even more sunshine, consider island hopping across the Greek Cyclades. Here, you can travel from one idyllic island to another, discovering famous white-and-blue villages, ancient temples, churches, and archaeological sites. Savor delicious meals at inviting taverns or on terraces at local Greek homes, where overnight stays are often affordable. Ferries connect islands like Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos, and many others, making it easy to relax on both popular and secluded beaches.
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"left","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/744ec4d6-14f9-4891-ae41-2ea5477307bc/Coalition-tools-cybersecurity-strategy-1920","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/7b1b3f018a30f69b/original/Coalition-tools-cybersecurity-strategy-1920.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Skiing in the Czech Republic"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"While Austria, France, Switzerland, and Italy are often considered premier destinations for skiing enthusiasts, those new to skiing or snowboarding may benefit from exploring alternative options. Beginners require not only instruction but also appropriate equipment, such as clothing, helmets, skis, boots, and poles. For families, these costs can accumulate rapidly.
The Czech Republic presents an excellent alternative. The Lipno ski area offers a welcoming environment with dedicated instructors and approximately 13 kilometers of slopes, ideal for those learning at a comfortable pace. The region is also known for its scenic beauty, opportunities for walking, and a variety of dining options. Notably, prices in this area are typically 30-50% lower than in traditional Alpine destinations such as Austria and France.
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"right","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/dcfb9b3e-eae2-4aff-9a26-85894696551b/Man-standing-back-up-from-falling-over-in-snow-skies","altTextEN":"\"\"","altTextNL":"\"\"","altTextFR":"\"\"","altTextDE":"\"\"","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/697ed8965972152b/original/Man-standing-back-up-from-falling-over-in-snow-skies.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Surfing in Portugal"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"For those seeking an active holiday experience within a welcoming environment, Portugal stands out as the premier surf destination in Europe. Renowned for its Mediterranean climate, Portugal is among the warmest countries on the continent. Guests can participate in surfing instruction during the day and, in the evening, enjoy exceptional cuisine and picturesque sunsets.
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"left","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/19d6ad52-2d22-4ead-8330-7c5a040ece0c/600580931","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/4e2fcf53c99369dd/original/600580931.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Try a new way to travel ..."},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Take the train!"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"It’s affordable, eco-friendly, and lets you unwind. Just hop on, settle in with a book or gaze out at the scenery as it rolls by. You’ll arrive at your destination feeling refreshed. With trains, you can journey far; imagine visiting cities like Paris, Berlin, Copenhagen, Prague, or even Turin.
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"right","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/ad59bc8d-6cfa-4b1a-a336-6e7af9145475/new-double-tax-treaty-with-France-consequences-for-you-1920","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/dd2b8a3cd8a071/original/new-double-tax-treaty-with-France-consequences-for-you-1920.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Hitchhiking!"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"If you’re feeling adventurous and want to save money on petrol or tickets, just grab a marker, some cardboard, and a positive outlook—you’ll be surprised how far you can get. Don’t worry about the clock, pick the right highway ramp, and pack light. Enjoy the journey!
"},"alignedImage":{"position":"left","transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/b12fa40a-4afc-404d-a3e2-6b6e8df4b0b3/ING-communication-rules-1920","original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/49ef7f4dac2727d9/original/ING-communication-rules-1920.jpg","extension":"jpg"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Hop on your bike!"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"For the ultimate sense of freedom, choose cycling - bring only what you need, pick a bike that fits you, and pedal towards new horizons. It’s great for your fitness, lets you enjoy the outdoors all day, and you'll never get stuck in traffic. Before you go, consider training for longer rides and decide whether you’ll camp or treat yourself to a comfortable B&B after a tiring journey.
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