This country of tulips, windmills and bicycles stretches out over a predominantly flat landscape of reclaimed land. Sophisticated urban centres and sleepy rural towns are contained within the expansive vistas broken here and there by canals, castle walls and dikes. Europe's most densely populated region is located within an area of the Netherlands called the Randstad. This urban hub is spread in a circle from Amsterdam, and includes The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht and the smaller towns of Haarlem, Leiden and Delft. The metropolitan centres buzz with the activity of seasonal festivals, cultural activities, vibrant art scenes and excellent pubs and restaurants.

The cultural heritage that flavours much of Dutch life can be traced back through time. During the 1600s the Netherlands dominated the world both economically and culturally. The Dutch East India Company established trading links with the East and West Indies bringing back an abundance of merchandise and cultural influences. The Golden Age reached its zenith in the artworks of the Dutch Masters - Rembrandt, Frans Hals and Jan Vermeer. Today their paintings hang from the walls of the cities' numerous museums and galleries.

Most people travelling to the Netherlands head for the unique experience of its capital city, Amsterdam. The other parts are largely unaffected by tourism, particularly the areas outside the Randstad. The southern parts of the country are transformed by undulating landscapes of shifting sands and heath moors, best experienced within the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Still south, tucked between the German and Belgian borders, lies the historical city of Maastricht.

Since the collapse of Napoleon's empire in 1814, the Netherlands has taken a neutral stance throughout most of the world's conflicts, including the First World War in which it took no part. In spite of this independent stance it still suffered severely in World War II during the Nazi invasion of 1940. Its neutral political position, combined with its tradition of liberalism and tolerance has made the Netherlands the logical choice for the establishment of the International Court of Justice, which is situated in The Hague.

Anne Frank House

Address: Prinsengracht 267 (Westerkerk) Amsterdam

Admission: EUR8.50 (adults), EUR4 (children aged 10 to 17) Daily 9am to 7pm (September 15 to March 14) and 9am to 9pm (15 March to 14 September). Note that the queues can be long

Telephone: (020) 556 7105

This museum is dedicated to the memory of Anne Frank whose famous diary, recorded over a two-year period, describes the experiences of a Jewish teenager during World War II. Part of the house was used as a hiding place by the Franks and others to escape Nazi persecution. The families were later discovered and sent to their deaths in the concentration camps. Otto Frank was the only survivor. The original diary is on display as part of the permanent exhibition. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits that focus on related issues.

Van Gogh Museum

Address: Paulus Potterstraat 7 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR12.50 (adults), EUR2.50 (children aged 13 to 17) Daily 10am to 6pm, Fridays 10am to 10pm

Telephone: (020) 570 5200

The Van Gogh Museum is a definitive attraction in Amsterdam. Situated in a modern building, the simple architecture subtly underscores the artists' colourful and extraordinary work. The museum houses a permanent display of several hundred of Van Gogh's paintings and drawings, many of which will be familiar even to the untrained eye. The collection is organised according to three criteria. The first of these is the work of the artist, which is divided into five notable periods. Then there is the display of work of other artists including those of his friends and contemporaries. The third section is the showcase of the museum's history recording its progress with a feature on the development of the new wing designed by Japanese architect, Kisho Kurokawa, built to house the temporary exhibitions.

The Rijksmuseum

Address: Jan Luijkenstraat 1 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR11 (adults), under 18s are free and concessions are available Daily 9am to 6pm (closing at 10pm on Fridays). Closed 1 January

Telephone: (020) 674 7000

The Rijksmuseum was opened in 1885 and is best known for its collection of 17th century Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. The most notable of these is Rembrandt's masterpiece, the Night Watch. The museum contains thousands of other paintings and artefacts in its Asiatic collection, Print Room, Dutch History and Applied Arts sections. A visit to the museum should include a trip into its delightful garden adorned with bright flowers, fountains, sculptures and summerhouses. Nestled within the garden is a collection depicting five centuries of Dutch architecture. It is advisable to consult a map or purchase a CD audio tour for an orientation to the extensive collection. Note that the Rijksmuseum is currently undergoing renovations, and although still open to visitors, structural work is ongoing and scheduled for completion only in 2012.

Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art

Address: Post CS building, Oosterdokskade 5 (temporary location until end of 2008) Amsterdam

Admission: EUR9 (adults), EUR4.50 (children 7 to16), family pass EUR22.50. Other concessions available Daily 10am to 6pm. Closed 1 January

Telephone: (020) 573 2911

The museum closely traces the development in art of the second half of the 20th century, showcasing the most impressive collections of modern art in Amsterdam. The permanent exhibition focuses on De Stijl, Cobra, Nouveau Realisme, Pop Art, Colorfield Painting, Zero and Minimalist Art while temporary exhibitions on design and applied art are housed in the new wing. The museum at Paulus Potterstraat is currently closed until late 2009 but a selection of works can still be viewed at the temporary location on the 2nd and 3rd floor of the Post CS building.

Rembrandt House

Address: Jodenbreestraat 4 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR8 (adults), EUR1.50 (children 6-15). Other concessions available Daily 10am to 5pm. Closed 1 January

Telephone: (020) 5200 400

This museum provides an insight into the life and times of the famous painter. Rembrandt lived here between 1639 and 1658 at the height of his career. The museum presents a permanent collection of Rembrandt's work, a reconstructed 17th century studio together with temporary exhibitions and a collection of paintings done by his teacher, Pieter Latman, and those of Rembrandt's pupils.

Amsterdam Historisch Museum

Address: Kalverstraat 92 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR10 (adults), EUR5 (children aged 6 to 16) Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm; Saturday and Sunday 11am to 5pm. Closed 1 January, 30 April and 25 December

Telephone: (020) 523 1822

Housed in a former orphanage, the Historical Museum explores Amsterdam's development from a small medieval settlement along the river into a thriving modern city. The museum's galleries showcase the progress of each century, with particular emphasis given to Holland's Golden Age. The museum provides a showpiece of Dutch Master paintings, archaeological discoveries, gold, silver, glass and earthenware and other artefacts. The museum fee covers entry to the Civic Guards Gallery. This is a glass-roofed gallery stretching between Kalverstraat and the Begijnhof, lined with portraits of Amsterdam's Civic Guards dating back to the 17th century.

Red Light District (De Wallen)

Address: Amsterdam

A visit to Amsterdam would not be complete without a stroll around the notorious Red Light District. The atmosphere can be chaotic with throngs of tourists jostling for space alongside city slickers, pimps and drug dealers. The prostitutes of De Wallen are part of a legal and regulated industry that includes compulsory health checks and taxable income. Prostitution is by no means the only attraction of the area. The district's architecture comprises a scenic mix that dates back to the Middle Ages. Areas to explore include Waterlooplein, Zeedijk and Nieuwmarkt Square. Waterlooplein is the location of the modern City Hall and Muziek Theatre. The square was created in 1880 from two canals that were filled and then allocated to Jewish traders who used to ply their wares on its pavements. Nieuwmarkt Square was also once home to a thriving Jewish community, mainly Portuguese Jews who had fled from persecution during the Spanish Inquisition. The cultural diversity of this area extends to Zeedijk Street, which is often referred to as Chinatown. The street runs from the Saint Olof Chapel to De Waag.

Our Dear Lord in the Attic (Museum Amstelkring)

Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR7 (adults), EUR1 (children 5-18), other concessions available Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm (open from 1pm on Sundays and public holidays). Closed 1 January and 30 April

Telephone: (0)20 624 6604

This concealed Catholic church (the combined top floors of a 17th century canal house) is a reminder of the Alteration period in Holland. Protestantism was declared the official religion and churches like this one relied on clandestine activity for their survival. The building's lower floors became a museum in 1888 housing a collection of church artefacts and paintings. It is located near the edge of the Red Light District.

The Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum)

Address: Plantage Kerklaan 61 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR6.50 (adults), EUR3.50 (children 7-15). Other concessions available Tuesday to Friday 10am to 5pm; Saturday, Sunday, Monday and public holidays 12pm to 5pm

Telephone: 020 620 2535

A trip to this museum provides a fascinating insight into the activities of the Dutch Resistance Movement during World War II. Displays of false documents, weaponry and other equipment provide testimony to the bravery and innovation of its members.

The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis)

Address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, Dam Square Amsterdam

Admission: EUR7.50 (adults), EUR6.50 (children) Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 5pm. Guided tours can be booked on (020) 624 8698

Telephone: (0)20 620 4060

Although the Royal Palace is the official Royal residence it is mainly used for functions as the family reside in The Hague. The building dates back to 1648 and was originally designed for use as Amsterdam's city hall. King Louis Napoleon however had other plans. In 1808 he turned the city hall into a palace. A large collection of furniture from this period adorns its interiors. Guided tours are offered to visitors (these need to be booked two weeks in advance).

Maastricht

Address: Maastricht is located 133 miles (215km) from Amsterdam Amsterdam

Maastricht is the oldest city in the Netherlands, peacefully perching on the banks of the Maas River. It is also one of the sunnier spots, located at Holland's southernmost point, squeezed in between the Belgium and German borders. Ancient fortifications provide pleasant walking routes and some of these can be explored on the city's western outskirts. The Bonnefantenmuseum traces the city's historical roots, and makes for a good introduction to one's visit. Another must-see is the Basilica of Saint Servatius. It is a medieval cruciform basilica with a significant collection of religious artefacts as well as the burial place of Holland's first bishop. In the old centre of Maastricht is a selection of shops and department stores. Here one can also savour the fine food that Maastricht has developed a reputation for. A selection of wines from nearby vineyards can be savoured with the cuisine that has been influenced by the distinctive tastes of its neighbours.

International Court of Justice

Address: Carnegieplein 2 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR5 (adults) and EUR3 (children) Guided tours Monday to Friday at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm

Telephone: (0)70 302 4242

The Peace Palace was so named to import its significance as a place of arbitration for the maintenance and promotion of world peace. Situated in The Hague, the building houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration and The Hague Academy of International Law. It was here (in 1946) that the first session of the International Court of Justice was held. Four guided tours are conducted daily. The Hague is located approximately 35 miles (57km) from Amsterdam.

Waterland Neeltje Jans

Address: Eiland Neeltje Jans, Faelweg 5 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR18.50 (adults), free for children under 4 Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm (winter) and daily from 10am to 5.30pm (summer)

Telephone: (0)111 655 655

Enjoy a whole day with marine animals, experience fantastic attractions and see and learn about the world famous Delta Works at this spectacular water park. Attractions include the storm surge barrier, Delta Expo, a waterslide and water playground, whale world exhibition and a hurricane simulator.

Royal Delftware Factory

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, Delft Amsterdam

Admission: EUR6.50 (adults), children under 12 free Daily 9am to 5pm (25 March to 1 November) and Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5 pm (2 November to 24 March). Closed between Christmas and New Years Day

Telephone: +31 (0)15 251 2030

The white and blue decorative pottery, the trademark of Royal Delftware, was influenced by Chinese porcelain brought back from the east by the tradesmen of the Dutch East India Company. The Royal Delftware Factory (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles) is the only remaining earthenware factory in Delft and dates back to the 17th century. Visitors to the factory can see painting demonstrations, attend painting workshops or visit the factory's museum and showroom. Delft is 30 miles (47km) south of Amsterdam, near The Hague. There is also a showroom in Amsterdam where visitors can also view a painting demonstration and view an exhibition. The address is Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 175-179 (on the premises of Gassan Diamonds).

National Maritime Museum

Address: Kattenburgerplein 1 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR5 Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Open on Mondays from mid-June to mid-September. Closed on Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Queen's day (30 April)

Telephone: +31 (0)20 5232 222

Covering four centuries of Dutch naval history, the National Maritime Museum allows visitors to glimpse into the adventurous seafaring past of Dutch explorers and merchants through exhibits of antiquarian maps, navigation instruments, paintings and ship models, creating one of the most extensive collections of maritime memorabilia in the world. A major attraction is the life-size reconstruction of a Dutch East India Company ship called the Amsterdam, which is docked behind the museum. Learn about dated maritime trade, naval combat, fishing and whaling and the intrepid journeys that took the Dutch fleet and her crew to remote destinations as far away as modern day Indonesia, India and South Africa. *Please Note: The National Maritime Museum Amsterdam will be closed until 2010 for major renovations. The Dutch East Indiaman Amsterdam is currently moored at the NEMO Science Centre where it is open to the public.

Heineken Experience

Address: Stadhouderskade 78 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR15 adults Daily 11am to 7pm

Telephone: +31 (0)20 523 9222

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience is not to be missed. After opening its doors in 2001, with Heineken Experience has been attracting international beer lovers for almost a decade. Housed in the original brewery, visitors will learn about the history of the famous Heineken Company and its unique brewing process, visit cutting edge interactive exhibits and enjoy free Heineken beer at the two pit stops along the way. Don't go away empty handed, a gift of Heineken memorabilia is given to each visitor to ensure they remember their Heineken Experience. Unfortunately the Heineken Experience is currently undergoing major renovations and is scheduled to reopen towards the end of 2008. The new and improved Heineken experience will include a mini brewery, a new tasting bar and an opportunity to view Heineken's iconic Shire horses.

Amsterdam Coffee Shops

Address: Amsterdam

Amsterdam's coffee shops are an iconic part of the city and for many tourists they constitute a unique and essential part of any visit to the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, 'coffee shop' means a place where cannabis is openly sold and smoked, while 'café' refers to somewhere that sells coffees, tea and cakes. The coffee shops can legally sell up to 5 grams of marijuana to adults over 18 years of age. Travellers are warned, however, that the personal possession of drugs is illegal. There are a variety of coffee shops in the city, from laid-back and mellow to psychedelic and loud. It is expected of customers to consume not only the cannabis but also a beverage or snack while at the venue. Most coffee shops offer several kinds of weed or hash listed on a 'menu', which the staff can give advice on. The prices vary according to the quality and be warned: the local skunk is very strong!

Artis Zoo

Address: Plantage Kerklaan 38-40 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR18.50 (adults); EUR15 (children). Concessions available. Ticket also provides admission to Planetarium, Geological Museum, Aquarium and Zoological Museum Open daily from 9am to 5pm

Telephone: (0)20 523 3400

Locally known as the Plantage, the Artis Zoo is somewhat of an oasis in the centre of Amsterdam and a must for children and other animal lovers. Boasting over 700 species of animals and 200 trees, many of which are on the verge of extinction, the Artis Zoo will captivate and amaze visitors of all ages.

Eftling

Address: Amsterdam

Admission: EUR28 (adults); Children under 4 free. Concession available. 1 April to 1 November from 10am to 6pm

Telephone: (0)41 628 8111

Built in the 1950s, and one of the leading theme parks in Europe, the popular theme park of Eftling is a must for children of all ages. Its children's fairytale theme captivates children and transports them into their favourite imaginary world. Complete with a fairy tale forest, lakes and trails, kids will delight at the 1895 steam carousel, the award-winning Fairy Tale stage show, the Adventure Maze, and the wooden roller coaster called Pegasus.

Madurodam

Address: George Maduroplein 1, The Hague Amsterdam

Admission: EUR14.50 (Adults) EUR10.50 (children) Concessions available Open daily. 4 July to 31 August from 9am to11pm; 1 September to 31 December from 9am to 6pm; 1 January to 3 July from 9am to 8pm.

Telephone: (0)70 416 2400

Located around 30 minutes outside of Amsterdam in The Hague, and first opened in 1952, Madurodam is quite literally the smallest city in the Netherlands, featuring hundreds of miniature Dutch structures. From the houses and factories that reflect real Amsterdam architecture, to the little railway system that winds its way around the Madurodam, children will be captivated by the sheer genius of this little city. For a small cost, usually just a few cents, parts of the miniature models will actually start working, such as trucks moving down the little highway and planes landing rolling down the little runway at Schiphol Airport.

Kinderkookkafé

Address: Vondelpark 6b, Kattenlaantje Amsterdam

Admission: EUR10 (child to cook); EUR5 (adult tea-party guests); EUR10 (adult dinner-party guests)

Telephone: (0)20 625 3257

Founded in 1981 by three women who shared a vision for a community centre where children could learn, Kinderkookkafé allows children to be grown-ups for a little while. Aprons and cooking hats come on and food fights and mess ensue while the kids are taught to cook meals, bartend and serve tables.

TunFun

Address: Mr. Visserplein 7 Amsterdam

Admission: EUR7.50 (children); Adults and children under 1 year old are free. Open daily from 10am - 6pm. Closed 30 April and 1 January.

Telephone: (0)20 528 6054

Located in an old converted traffic underpass, TunFun offers plenty of opportunities for children to play, climb, creep and jump. Featuring everything from a kids' disco and slides, to ball pools and an inflatable 'Amsterdam street' jumping castle and trampolines. Adults gain free access to TunFun and can relax and enjoy a drink or bite to eat at the TunFun café.

Blauw aan de Wal

Address: Oude Zijds, Achterburgwal 99 Amsterdam

Food Type: French

One of Amsterdam's delightful secrets, this charming restaurant is peaceful and tranquil in the midst of a bustling Red Light District. An alley leads patrons to the tiny square where Blauw aan de Wal (Blue on the Quay) is hidden, a modern minimalist restaurant with a courtyard that was once part of a monastery. The fare is Mediterranean inspired and the service renowned for its excellence. Reservations necessary. Closed Sunday. Dinner only.

Odeon

Address: Singel 460, Rembrandtplein Amsterdam

Food Type: Modern Eclectic

Once a rumpled teenage disco but now a revamped chic and cosmopolitan restaurant, the Odeon attracts the stylish and sophisticated diners of Amsterdam. A brassiere, restaurant and nightclub spread over three floors, guests are ensured an entertaining evening out. The restaurant serves fresh, simple and contemporary cuisine and has an excellent wine list. The kitchen is open daily from 11am to 10.30pm.

D' Vijff Vlieghen

Address: Spuistraat 294-302 (opposite the Amsterdam Historical Museum) Amsterdam

Food Type: Local

The 'Five Flies' is one of the world's famous restaurants, oozing old-world charm with antiques and Rembrandt etchings on the Spui, and offering New Dutch Cuisine, created using only fresh Dutch products. Brass plaques on the chairs remind diners of the famous names like Orson Welles and Walt Disney who have patronised the rambling establishment that occupies five adjoining historic houses. D'Vijff Vlieghen also offers an organic five-course vegetarian meal. Open daily for dinner. Reservations advised.

Café de Jaren

Address: Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-22 Amsterdam

Food Type: Gastropubs

Contemporary and stylish, the chief attraction of the Café de Jaren is its waterfront terrace overlooking the Amstel River, in the heart of the city. It makes for a great place for a pre dinner drink, the sampling of a superb bottle of wine or enjoying a strong coffee. The menu is varied and attractive, with fare ranging from soups and sandwiches to steaks and pastas. With a classic French feel to it, the high ceilings and tiled floors of the Café de Jaren exude a refined elegance. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Dynasty

Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 30 Amsterdam

Food Type: Oriental

Amsterdam is well supplied with oriental restaurants particularly in its rejuvenated Chinatown district. One of the most popular institutions, serving a mix of Asian cuisine from Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese, to Malay and Filipino, is Dynasty. The themed interior is exceedingly colourful, the ceiling adorned with upturned paper umbrellas. A big attraction is the beautiful Canalhouse Garden, usually packed out for summer dining. Reservations essential. Closed Tuesdays.

Pasta E Basta

Address: Nieuwe Spiegelstraat 8 Amsterdam

Food Type: Italian

The lively Pasta E Basta restaurant has hit on a gimmick that draws customers as much as the delicious plates of pasta it serves: the waiters and bartenders sing opera arias while they tend the tables. This makes for a jovial atmosphere, where guests enjoy the excellent wine list and superb Italian fare in an intriguing environment. Bookings should be made well in advance. Open daily from 6pm for dinner.

Rose's Cantina

Address: Reguliersdwarsstraat 38-40 Amsterdam

Food Type: Spanish

Amsterdam's most popular Mexican-style bar buzzes with warm Latin-American ambience and serves up notoriously potent margaritas along with a number of food specialities. The menu includes regular Mexican favourites like burritos, nachos and enchiladas. Fillet steak and burgers are also available and are well complimented with Mexican beer. Open daily from 5pm.

De Silveren Spiegel

Address: Kattengat 4-6 Amsterdam

Food Type: Local

The elegant Silveren Spiegel (Silver Mirror) is one of Amsterdam's best known traditional restaurants, featuring a romantic atmosphere enhanced by beautifully decorated candlelit rooms in two historic houses. Highlights on the menu include seafood and meat dishes both of which are cooked in traditional Dutch manner.

De Witte Uyl

Address: Frans Halsstraat 26 Amsterdam

Food Type: Modern Eclectic

A simple Amsterdam restaurant that serves delicious food in a laid back yet sophisticated environment, De Witte Uyl is a popular choice with locals and foreigners looking for a pleasurable night out. While the soft rhythms of jazz music flow through the restaurant, patrons can indulge in the flavours of the diverse contemporary menu that offers dishes like steak of veal filled with sage and pastrami, served with mashed sweet potato, brussel sprouts and parmesan or warm crème of garden peas with mint, with home smoked oysters and steamed wonton filled with chévre, crème fraiche and chives. Order two dishes and a desert for a fixed price and scan the international winelist, which compliments the intricate menu. Open for dinner, Tuesday to Saturday.

Café Luxembourg

Address: Spuistraat 24 Amsterdam

Food Type: Gastropubs

A large established eatery, Café Luxembourg's affordable prices, traditional atmosphere and superb food continue to draw crowds throughout the year. With heavily wooded tables, a long, well stocked bar, soft lighting and a pleasant atmosphere, Café Luxembourg is the ideal place for a lunchtime salad or sandwich, evening drink accompanied by a mouth-watering array of snacks or a laid back wholesome evening meal. In summer patrons can people-watch from the bustling sidewalks and in winter friends and couples can cosy up with a nice bottle of red or a crisp pint. If you looking for a great meal at an affordable price, Café Luxembourg is the ticket. Open daily from 9am for lunch and dinner.