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.

The mother of all fairs returns for its yearly unveil of the latest must haves for your home, for you, and more. Nine days of fashion, beauty, food and entertainment are organised at Amsterdam RAI. Book ahead for discounted entry.

Don Quixote would be on cloud nine if he could stay in Amsterdam during the National Windmill Day. After all, this is the only period of the year when it is possible visit over 600 different windmills across the whole Netherlands free of charge! Moreover, many of them are found directly in and around Amsterdam, so use this opportunity to learn more about the bladed Dutch trademark.

If you enjoy the company of Mozart, Bach or Vivaldi in your speakers, or simply like to experience a bit of something more ‘sophisticated’ when it comes to music, then Amsterdam is a place which is bound to meet your demands in that scope. With plenty of great places to go and listen to classical music of the highest quality, you’ll be more than happy to explore the attractions offered by the Venice of the North.

Escape the bustle of the city and discover a forgotten world at this picturesque village, renowned for its traditional Dutch architecture, authentic atmosphere and of course, its iconic series of working windmills.

Affectionately regarded as a “miniature Amsterdam,” the city of Haarlem makes a rewarding destination for a break from the Netherlands’ capital, combining a friendly village vibe with beautiful architecture and exemplary cultural, dining and retail opportunities.

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.

If you’re well-familiar with names like Edam, Gouda or Maasdam, and if terms like Mimolette, Maaslander or Leerdammer do ring more than a bell, then you’re in the right place to be delighted. The short list below contains some of the most worthy places to visit if you don’t want to become cheesed off by your stay in Amsterdam.

Do the Lovedance! One of the most important events in Amsterdam, surely not exclusively for the gay community, as part of the Wereld AIDS Nacht (the World AIDS Night). A must if you are visiting the city this year towards the last days of November.

Drug law in the Netherlands has been a source of controversy for decades. While it’s true that the use of soft drugs is tolerated throughout the country and will most assuredly go unpunished, the encompassing socio-political climate is much more ambiguous. Before you give your order in one of the legendary “coffee shops,” take the time to familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of drugs in Amsterdam.