Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital, known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses with gabled facades, legacies of the city’s 17th-century Golden Age.  Every neighborhood is compact and pedestrian-friendly, so it can all be easily accessed by foot (or bike, or boat) to explore 60 miles of canals and nearly 7,000 buildings dating from the 18th century or earlier in one of Europe’s best preserved cities—the center has barely changed since Rembrandt’s time.

There’s no bad time to go to this Dutch capital, but in general, May through October is the main travel season, when temperatures are warmest. Crowds peak in July and August. The other top time for a trip to Amsterdam is tulip season: The city bursts into bloom as early as March, and the plumage can extend into May.

Stay:

The Dylan, The Hoxton, The Andaz, The Waldorf Astoria, Hotel V, Max Brown Hotel

Eat:

Gartine, Ree 7, The Duchess, Bakers and Roasters, Little Collins, De Kas, The Pancake Factory. For more see the essential Eater list

See:

Anne Frank House, The Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt House Museum, Vondelpark, The Dutch National Opera and Ballet, Electric Boat Tours