THE NETHERLANDS

Most famous for its capital city, Amsterdam, which lives up to its hype, The Netherlands is also known for its pancake-flat countryside and bicycles, windmills, waterways and thousands of tulips in spring. Amsterdam is the destination to head for first, however, and where to spend most of your time. The beautiful city is filled with canals and narrow gabled houses that were popular during its 17th century gilded era as well as centuries of history preserved in museums like the Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum. Of course the city is also famous for its slightly naughty side, like its red light district and famed hashish coffeehouses, as well as a lively restaurant and après dark scene. Beyond the capital city, other charming towns, like Delft and Haarlem await. And then there is The Hague, home to the Dutch queen and a center for international diplomacy.

The windmills are near a body of water in the Netherlands.
A group of bicycles parked on a railing next to a canal in the Netherlands.
A boat on a canal next to a house with flowers in the Netherlands.
A field of colorful tulips with a windmill in the background in the Netherlands.

Main Photo Credit: Getty Images