Netherlands

Not at all, but cycling is one of the best ways to experience the country. The Netherlands has an enormous network of dedicated cycle routes, and bikes are a normal part of everyday life. Just remember that Dutch cyclists know what they're doing, so don't wander into a cycle lane while staring at Google Maps!

Definitely not. Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, Delft and Groningen all offer something different, while the Wadden Islands, Zeeland and the countryside give you a chance to escape the cities. The country's excellent transport network makes it easy to explore beyond Amsterdam.

Despite the name, Dutch coffee shops are primarily associated with cannabis rather than coffee. Cannabis is tolerated under specific Dutch policies, but there are rules around where and how it can be sold and consumed, and regulations can vary by municipality. Don't assume that everything goes just because you're in Amsterdam.

The Wadden Islands sit off the northern coast of the Netherlands and are known for beaches, dunes, wildlife and wide-open landscapes. Texel is the largest and easiest to reach, while Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog offer a quieter escape. They're a great option if you fancy swapping Amsterdam's canals for some fresh sea air.