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Quaint and charming, the Netherlands is sometimes overlooked by its larger European neighbours. Holland is characterised by its famous canal system, blooming tulip fields, windmill-scattered landscapes and endless kilometres of cycling routes, which gives it a quintessentially European storybook setting. The capital city, Amsterdam, is an alluring yet bohemian city whose 17th century Golden Age has left a plethora of artistic legacy.

Amsterdam is one of the few cities in the world that offers such a range of extraordinary museums; the famous Museum District features the Van Gogh Museum, works by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum and modern art at the Stedelijk, Amsterdam is truly a must visit destination for museum enthusiasts. It is also home to the notorious Anne Frank’s House, an intriguing museum dedicated to the heart-breaking story of the Jewish wartime diarist.

Amsterdam possess a total of 165 canals enveloping the city, The Amsterdam Canal District is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The beautiful flower-lined canals are symbolic of the city’s rich heritage and a trip by boat provides a unique way to view the city from a different perspective. Another highly recommended route of visiting the city is cycling, a quintessentially Dutch mode of transport, offers not only a practical, but also a very fun way to explore the cobbled streets lined with beautiful cafes and shops.

For food, the locals usually opt for the Nine Streets district, offering a relaxed atmosphere and wide variety of restaurants/bars. For the ultimate experience try to visit Amsterdam between mid-March to early-May to witness the bloom of the tulips, where the countryside comes alive with colour and a range of parades and festivals encapsulate the city.