This extravagantly decorated clandestine church built centuries ago when Catholicism was considered a crime is hidden in plain sight behind an unassuming front door in the city centre. Those walking down Juffrouw Idastraat would never imagine that within one of the typical terraced houses lies the enormous Parish of Saints James and Augustine where Catholics used to practice their faith in secret. Nobody is quite sure who built the church, but the stunning baroque plastering seems to suggest that it was the famous architect and artist Daniel Marot or one of his students. Book a free tour which takes you through the church and the attic to the more recent Bishop’s Chamber which is full of some of the original features and furniture that were used in the 1700s.

This fine golden sandy beach is almost three kilometres in length and up to one hundred metres wide. Its facilities include lifeguard watchtowers, a Red Cross post, car park, footbath, toilets and disabled access. It is perfect for enjoying water-based activities, sports and also has playgrounds for children. Along the beachfront there are all kinds of shops and restaurants.

Dating back as early as the 13th century, this late medieval building is the oldest remaining parliamentary court still in use today. It was first built as a castle and home to the various counts of Holland, but after several battles for succession, the Binnenhof changed hands many times and, in the process, saw many new administrative buildings erected around it. Extensive renovations are currently underway and not expected to finish before 2028, so politicians have had to find elsewhere to conduct their business. Tours of the surrounding areas are available and more information can be obtained at the Binnenhof Renovation Information Centre, which is right next to the complex.

The well-known impressionist Claude Monet lived in Giverny his whole life. Today, you can visit his house and the very gardens that gave him inspiration to paint some of his most famous pieces of work.