Amsterdam is the lively capital of the Netherlands, located in North Holland, half an hour from the North Sea coast. The canals from the Golden Age form a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of charming facades, cyclists, and canal boats. Must-sees include the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and a canal cruise at sunset. Thanks to a compact city center, excellent public transportation, and countless bike rental companies, you can explore the highlights in a single day.