Every five years SAIL Amsterdam takes place. This means that in August 2015 a fleet of Tall Ships from all over the world will come to the IJ harbour and everybody is welcome to visit them. During the four day exhibition many other cultural events and maritime-themed entertainment will take place both on the water and on the wharfs.

A travelling tent festival of theater and more, De Parade, happens among four major Dutch cities, transforming public spaces into lively summer, circus stages. These theater, dance, and music performances provide some rare artistic displays, such as antique whirligigs made of miniature wheels. Inventing light, exciting scenes for a charitable cause is the ultimate purpose of De Parade. There is even a day program given for kids. Lasting from August 9th - 25th in Amsterdam’s Martin Luther King Park, food stands line the park to offer culinary delights that complement the frolicking festivities. With 74 performances, 19 children shows and 35 bands, this event truly has something for all to value. So bring the kids along for a full family outing!

Food enthusiasts unite May 15th - 18th for a series of delicious summer outings surrounding culinary culture from around the world as Amstel Park hosts the annual Taste of Amsterdam festival. Some of the Dutch capital's most well reputed restaurants serve up the best in international cuisine with their signature dishes. The Taste of Amsterdam illuminates all the senses with rare aromatic flavours, delightful textures, insightful conversations and savory memories. Observe renowned chefs in masterful action. Guide your taste buds through a tasting tutorial. Sample nature’s bounty at the gourmet and organic market which boasts over 60 total merchant stands to entice and satisfy even the most discriminating appetite.

The Noordoostpolder, opposite the Markermeer bay from Amsterdam, contains more tulips than anywhere else in the Netherlands. From April 17 - May 5th, the annual Tulip Festival is a formal introduction to the super abundant tulip fields in the Noordoostpolder. Each spring a small migration of flower lovers saunters through a landscape of blooming bulbs, hand seeded a few months prior. Come admire the sheer outburst of organic colors arrayed forth in nectar scented petals.

Amsterdam Roots Festival has no doubt become a trademark on its own. Attracting over 50,000 enthusiasts of less-commercial acts from around the whole globe each year, it certainly is a nice event to attend if you’re about to enjoy a short stay Amsterdam in early summer.

The Netherlands’ sweeping coastline encompasses a series of clean, white, sandy beaches, several of which can be reached via public transport from the capital of Amsterdam, offering a calming seaside alternative to the city’s bustling streets.

Sweeping almost 1,000 hectares, the Amsterdamse Bos is one of Europe’s largest city parks, granting a welcome retreat from the confines of the capital and a chance to explore a picturesque environment brimming with fantastic attractions.

Make the most of Amsterdam’s excellent indoor and outdoor swimming facilities during your holiday.

Established over 60 years ago, the Holland Festival is Amsterdam’s oldest and most popular festival of performing arts and is an attraction not to be missed whilst visiting the city. Taking place in June of each year within an array of locations across Amsterdam, the festival boasts some truly spectacular productions of music and theatre.

If you enjoy wildlife of different sorts, you cannot ask for a better opportunity to see some of the finest species in a perfect natural setting. The Artis Royal Zoo is a great place to admire some of the most amazing specimens of unusual and exotic fauna, but also to enjoy the marvelous examples of 19th century architecture. It is a truly remarkable spot for anyone looking for something more than the casual metropolitan chic offered by the Venice of the North.