Amsterdam
If you're a fan of Rembrandt, you can't travel to Amsterdam without visiting the world-famous Rembrandt House Museum, once the residence of the eminent 17th-century painter himself. The house showcases many of his greatest accomplished works and sketches, and has been a public exhibition venue for more than 100 years. You can also see the Anne Frank House, which tells the story of the brave Jewish writer and diarist Anne Frank in the Second World War and is one of the most popular museums in the country. Some of Amsterdam's other top-rated attractions include the art-themed Rijksmuseum, picturesque Vondelpark, the Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum), and the thriving Jordaan neighbourhood with its excellent boutiques and contemporary art galleries. For comfortable, value-for-money accommodation, you could try the Boutique Hotel View and the Hotel Nadia, or book a stay at exquisite The Posthoorn or The Toren.
Some of Amsterdam's other top-rated attractions include the art-themed Rijksmuseum, picturesque Vondelpark, the Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum), and the thriving Jordaan neighbourhood with its excellent boutiques and contemporary art galleries. For comfortable, value-for-money accommodation, you could try the Boutique Hotel View and the Hotel Nadia, or book a stay at exquisite The Posthoorn or The Toren.
Rotterdam
Another lively, international city with Europe's biggest cargo port, Rotterdam is the location of the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, exhibiting many great medieval and modern artworks. It's also overlooked by the pioneering steel Erasmus Bridge and is renowned for its unique hexagonal Cube Houses, which stand above a chess piece museum. Consider the sophisticated Hotel New York or the chic citizenM Rotterdam hotels if you're looking for deluxe accommodation, or book a room at the value-for-money Ibis Rotterdam City Centre or the SS Rotterdam.
The Hague
Wander around the Hague Market and get some fabulous souvenirs, or visit the nearby Amusement Park Duinrell and challenge yourself to one of its formidable roller-coaster rides. The Hague is also well known for its terrific Scheveningen beach, impressive Madurodam miniature park, and the charismatic Squares of The Hague. One of the best budget-friendly places to stay in the South Holland capital is the Hotel Mimosa, while the Hotel Mozaic Den Haag is one of the city's most exclusive accommodation establishments.
Maastricht
See the illustrious Romanesque-styled Basilica of Saint Servatius, visit the art- and natural history-themed Museum aan het Vrijthof, and admire the tremendous Basilica of Our Lady, Maastricht, another fine Romanesque landmark. The city is also home to the affordable, boutique Townhouse Hotel Maastricht and the truly regal Kruisherenhotel Maastricht hotel.
Utrecht
Explore Utrecht's immaculate musical-themed Museum Speelklok, learn about the history of the railways at the Spoorwegmuseum, and witness the architectural masterpiece known as the Dom Tower, a spectacular 113m Gothic church tower that is the tallest in the country. For impeccable hospitality, try the high-end Grand Hotel Karel V Utrecht, or book the value-for-money Holiday Inn Express Utrecht - Papendorp.
