The 10 nicest places to stay just across the border

We can say that summer 2020 has somewhat fallen into the water. Because that vacation is going to be a bit different. Even if you might go abroad, will it have the same vibe as before corona? I actually don't think so. The majority will just enjoy staying in the Netherlands, or just outside of it. Because just over the border, you also have very nice destinations. If you're not on vacation in your own country, it's still nice to be within driving distance (and I love road trips, so that's already a plus for me) and really get away for a bit. Where should you go? Check out the 10 best destinations just over the Dutch border.

1. Antwerp
Okay, let's start with an obvious destination. Antwerp is just over the Dutch border in Belgium (you know) and is really such a nice city. You can eat super well there (The Jane, Le John, Brasserie Appelmans...) but also enjoy nice terraces and go shopping. Just pay attention to what the measures are in Belgium regarding corona, because at the time of writing, wearing a mask is still mandatory everywhere.

2. Nordhorn
A top recommendation to go for a few days of shopping, eating, and drinking. Nordhorn is an old textile town that is now mainly known for its many shops, but also because, like Venice, it is best viewed from the water. Okay, Venice might be a bit more idyllic... But this is closer and something different. Just do it.

3. Emden
A German port city in the Lower Saxony region. Especially ideal if you want a quiet city trip. There are enough museums to visit here, you can take nice walks through the harbor and eat fresh herring that they sell here with various toppings: mustard, cranberry, and of course the German curry sauce. Is that a good combo? Well... I think you should try it yourself.

4. Knokke
Also a bit obvious, just like Antwerp, but that doesn't make it any less fun. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, and if you time it right, you can spend a week on the beach here. You don't need Ibiza for that, you know. Just drive to Knokke. Delicious.

5. Düsseldorf
Maybe not the most exciting destination, but it is honestly quite a nice city for a few days. Especially if you want to go all out shopping, because you can do that really well here. You can get there quickly by car, and there are plenty of nice terraces and restaurants to kill the rest of the time. Be sure to stop by Fritz’s Frau Franzi, a Michelin-starred place where you can get a menu for under twenty euros. Hopsakee. You're robbing your own wallet if you don't go.

6. Liège
This is a real student city, which means you really won't miss out on anything in terms of hospitality, and that's always a must for me when I go away for a weekend. Another plus is that Liège is in the French part of Belgium, so everyone speaks French. You feel a bit like you're in France (and there are many French dishes on the menu). And definitely try the Liège waffle. Not really diet-proof but very tasty, and hey, it's vacation.

7. Bad Bentheim
A favorite of our own royalty and therefore also a favorite of ours. You don't go here for the restaurants, not for the shops, but for relaxation. The spa in this city is where most people come for, and you want to spend a day (or two) there and become completely zen. Furthermore, it's also a cute little town, you know. It's a castle town with a large castle as a centerpiece.

8. Münster
It's a bit further to drive, but then you have something. Münster is known for its Christmas markets but is fun all year round. It's a fairly large city, so you'll find everything you need to entertain yourself for a few days. Especially the harbor is incredibly cozy and busy in the summer, but whether that's still the case with corona is still a question, of course. Definitely worth a visit.

9. Borgloon
A tiny village in Belgium where not much happens, but there is a lot around it. Borgloon is mainly known for the ‘transparent church’ (not a real church, but a work of art), which is very special to see. Furthermore, the nature around it is very beautiful, so it's a nice stop for hikers.

10. Monschau
At the border of Belgium, just over the border from the Netherlands, you find this village. Especially if you really want to get away for a bit and do a lot of walking, this is the place you want to go. The village itself is incredibly cute (especially in winter it's very beautiful), with enough restaurants to eat well and during the day to explore nature.