Stepping off the train at Amsterdam’s central station, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d just walked through the gates of Disney World. Masses of crowds push forward towards the exit, and when you finally do get outside into the fresh air, there are even more people in your way.
And while it’s a beautiful city with its romantic canals, exquisite architecture, and events going on every single night, the crowds — and constant action — certainly aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Drunken bachelor parties staggering around with inflatable women can leave a visitor begging for some peace and quiet. For a quieter experience built on traditional Dutch culture, art, and food, head to Groningen. This university town in the north of the country is located in a quiet area far removed from the Randstad, and any real Dutchie will tell you this is where you’ll find the real Netherlands.