We went here the day after William asked Erika to be his girlfriend. Oud Zuilen is a charming village with a castle that you can visit, two windmills, and a cute restaurant where you can eat Dutch "bitterballen". The area is also Erika's favorite place to run. Pro tip: rent bikes in Utrecht and cycle there!
No better way to see Utrecht than from the water. Small risk of falling into the canal though, so if you're slightly less adventurous, check out the paddle boat option :)
Want to see Utrecht from the water, put in some effort, but not risk falling in the canal? Then this is your pick!
Must-do if it's your first time in the Netherlands and you want to see more than Amsterdam. Erika has to admit that as a born-and-raised Dutchie she's never been here (but William has!)
So close to the Netherlands that we went there just for the afternoon. Bruges is a fairytale-like city of winding canals and hidden cobblestone alleys. It’s the perfect place to get lost for an day, especially if you stop for local beer, waffles, and a box of Belgian chocolates.
Our first trip together! When we just started talking we discussed how traveling together is a great way to get to know each other. Hence, a trip one week after we officially started dating. Trier is perfect for a day or two. Lots of history and good German food (William's favorite).