A Short Voyage to a World Apart
Sometimes, the best adventures begin close to home. For UK travelers, the Netherlands offers the perfect balance of proximity and discovery—far enough to feel like a true getaway, yet close enough to be conveniently reached. With its modern cities, timeless canals, rich history, and thriving arts scene, the country welcomes both weekend explorers and those looking for a longer reset. From romantic bike rides through picturesque towns to sampling local delicacies in vibrant city centers, there’s something for every type of traveler.
What makes it even more appealing? The ease of getting there by ferry. Skip the airport queues, avoid the luggage limitations, and enjoy a slower, more scenic route across the North Sea. Bring your car if you wish, stretch out with a coffee, and let the journey itself become part of your holiday story.
Why the Netherlands Works for Every Kind of Traveler
For quick getaways:
Cities like Rotterdam and Amsterdam are built for short breaks. With excellent public transport and compact city centers, you can explore a lot in just a few days. Think vibrant markets, riverside walks, and cozy cafés tucked away on cobbled side streets.
For deeper stays:
If you can stretch your time, the Netherlands rewards slower travel. Discover lesser-known gems like Utrecht, Haarlem, or Giethoorn. Rent a bike and meander through the countryside. Visit coastal towns, art museums, and tulip farms at your own pace.
Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a full fortnight, you’ll find the pace that suits you.
Make the Most of the Crossing
Traveling from Hull to Rotterdam by ferry is both practical and enjoyable. With overnight sailings, you can rest in a private cabin while the sea carries you to Europe. There’s onboard entertainment, shopping, and restaurants to make the journey feel like part of the holiday—not just a means to an end.
And for those planning travel before the end of September 2025, now is a great time to book. P&O Ferries UK is currently offering 30% off on both standard return trips and short break bookings when traveling from Hull to Rotterdam. That gives you options—whether you’re planning a three-day escape or a ten-day holiday.
What to See, Taste, and Do
- Rotterdam: Admire modern architecture like the Cube Houses or visit the sprawling Markthal for a taste of Dutch cuisine.
- The Hague: Less than 30 minutes away, this city blends regal history with seaside charm.
- Kinderdijk: A UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Rotterdam, perfect for seeing the Netherlands’ iconic windmills.
- Delft: Home of blue-and-white pottery and quiet canals, this charming town is ideal for a half-day trip.
For those staying a bit longer, consider venturing beyond the usual stops and heading north to Groningen or south to Maastricht—two cities that beautifully showcase the diversity of Dutch culture. Groningen, with its youthful energy and innovative spirit, offers a dynamic mix of contemporary art, architecture, and nightlife. Meanwhile, Maastricht exudes a more classical charm, with cobbled lanes, medieval architecture, and a relaxed café culture influenced by its proximity to Belgium and Germany. Each city reveals a unique layer of the Netherlands waiting to be explored.
Travel Light or Bring It All
Unlike flying, taking a ferry with P&O Ferries UK means no luggage restrictions—and that can transform the way you pack and plan. Bring that extra jacket, those boots you might only wear once, or even a few comforts from home that wouldn’t fit in a suitcase. Traveling with your car? Even better. Load up your boots with everything from picnic gear to hiking equipment, kids’ toys to your favorite snacks. The freedom to carry more lets you travel not just prepared, but relaxed and ready for whatever your journey brings.
Final Thoughts
The Netherlands is a land of balance: busy yet peaceful, historic yet innovative. It offers just enough variety to be thrilling and just enough comfort to be restorative. From the vibrant tulip fields in spring to cozy canal-side cafés in winter, there’s a rhythm to life here that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. You can spend mornings in world-class museums, afternoons wandering vibrant street markets, and evenings dining by the water.
Whether you’re after culture, countryside, or coastlines, the Dutch experience is both charming and refreshingly accessible. And with flexible travel options and a generous discount from P&O Ferries UK, now might be the perfect time to make the crossing—whether you’re heading over for a quick weekend escape or settling in for a longer adventure.
