Amsterdam Canals, Aerial view, The Netherlands by Swimmerguy269

The Lonely Planet says “other places as old as Amsterdam have evocative beauty and come in a variety of sizes: Edam, Haarlem, Delft and Deventer to name just some of the smaller delights. Moving up the league tables in size, there’s the canal towns of Leiden, Haarlem and Utrecht. And Rotterdam is a modernist feast all its own.” But if you want to narrow it down even further, here are the top 5 highlights of the Netherlands.

Rijksmuseum

Art lovers will be thrilled to view the vast collection of pieces by Dutch masters presented in this clean, contemporary space in Amsterdam. There’s heavy emphasis on the historical side, too, with works dating from the Middle Ages onward. Aside from native art, there’s the chance to explore influential pieces from other areas including Europe and Asia.

Library in Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by erich2448

The building itself is steeped in history, initially opening its doors in 1885. The Rijksmuseum was originally born elsewhere in 1800, but when it shifted to the current location, The Netherlands Museum for History and Art moved in to share the same space. The latest project has seen the building modernised, but also becoming truer to the original design by Cuypers, earning the renovations the name ‘Continuing with Cuypers’.

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank is unarguably one of the most important figures in the Netherlands’ history, and her legacy and spirit are kept alive at the Anne Frank Museum in central Amsterdam. The House was saved by campaigners who set up a trust to preserve the building and its history. Rather than being led round by a guide, you pick up a guidebook on entry and are allowed the freedom to discover at your own pace.

Anne Frank House, Amsterdam by Ed and Eddie

You can view Anne’s original diary and the tragically empty secret annex – symbolically left stripped of the objects that were seized and sent to Germany during the war. It’s worth booking in advance to avoid queuing – and leave the camera in your bag as photography in Anne Frank House is banned. Bear in mind the visit can be emotionally charged and may be unsuitable for certain individuals.

Van Gogh Museum

As well as housing the largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh anywhere in the world, the museum hosts exhibitions on various aspects of 19th-century art. When it comes to the artist the place is named for, the Van Gogh Museum’s collection comprises over 200 original masterworks as well as a comprehensive selection of 700 letters and 400 drawings. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out the artist’s own personal collection of Japanese prints.

A visit to the Van Gogh Museum provides the chance to gain insight into the artist’s personality and discover his inspirations and motivation. Historical information enables visitors to chart Van Gogh’s artistic development chronologically, witnessing first-hand how his style evolved over time. Alongside the permanent collection, the museum is holding an Anniversary Exhibition – ‘Van Gogh at Work’ running until 2014, marking the conclusion of eight years of extensive research into the artist’s methodology.

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by Kent Wang

Heineken Experience

For something rather different, visit Amsterdam’s Heineken Experience to discover the lore, legend, science and technology behind the well-loved lager. A self-guided tour takes around 1 ½ hours, during which there’s plenty of opportunity to talk to experts. The state-of-the-art exhibition also has many interactive, sensory, and hands-on features. The Experience commences with an introduction to the history of the brand and the family who founded the brewery.

Heineken Experience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by Anne Hornyak

You’ll move on to learn about the raw materials and discover how the brewing process in the Brew Room, and see how horse-drawn carts transport the barrels in the Stable Yard. There’s the chance to try your hand at pulling a pint and bottle your own beer, as well as taking part in an interactive DJing challenge and going on a ‘Brew Ride’. If it’s all left you thirsty for more, hit the Tasting Room or the World Bar, where you can sample the very stuff you’ve been learning about. Don’t forget to stock up in the shop before you leave.

Apenheul Primate Park

The Park opened in 1971 with the revolutionary concept of allowing humans to walk amongst freely-roaming primates and interact with them. The monkeys are friendly and have a calm disposition, and are used to young children. On arrival, you’re provided with a ‘monkey-proof bag’ to keep your valuables and food safely out of reach of mischievous hands, although it’s fine to keep camera equipment on your person.

Golden lion tamarin at Apenheul, Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, making a well known gesture with its middle finger / Photo by linda

Apenheul is home to over thirty species of primate from gigantic gorillas to tiny tamarinds. Although the animals will inevitably come up close, you are strongly discouraged from attempting to pick them up or pet them – and forbidden from feeding them ‘human’ food. New for 2013 is the renovated Orangu-tang area with play areas suited to both monkeys and children.

Based in London, Sarah Thompson loves writing about a variety of lifestyle topics including fashion, beauty, health and travel. A season traveller herself, Sarah shares tips about how to get the best value for money on holiday using currency travel cards. You can read more of Sarah’s articles in a wide variety of blogs and websites. Sarah is also a lover of brogues, vintage dresses and trips to Paris – and the occasional glass of red wine.

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Amsterdam

The compact size of Amsterdam – a city built around a system of canals – means that you are never far from the highlights of the destination, and there is never a dull moment, whatever may take your fancy. There is a charm that comes with the quaintness of Amsterdam, but recently a new wave of urban art has been sweeping the town, with an influx of cool reigniting its bohemian credentials. While Anne Frank’s House and the Van Gough Museum are understandably popular, you should also check out rising photographic talent at Huis Marseille or Foam. Away from the tacky stag-do-central of the Red Light District is Reguliersgracht, where criss-crossing alleys are lined with chilled-out cafés and dinky boutique shops.

Amsterdam, Netherlands by Christian Lendl

Istanbul

While the majority of the population of Istanbul are Muslim, it is a sprawling cosmopolitan city with a huge mix of cultures. Being located on the very edge of Europe and Asia, it is a melting pot of Western and Middle Eastern cultures which will fascinate any discerning traveller. One of the archetypal visions of the city can be found in the Covered Bazaar, where merchants and locals trade wares and offer must-have souvenirs to the tourists who pass through. This will give an idea of the whole city, which is a maze of nooks and crannies, all filled with remarkable cafes and boutique shops offering scents, gold and textiles. The Blue Mosque is a must, presenting fabulous mosaics of ceramics and glass, and offering an insight into the wealth and excess of the home of the Ottoman Empire.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey by Jerzy Kociatkiewicz

Rome

The home of an empire that once included territories in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, Rome is a goldmine of cultural artefacts. One of the most popular ruins is the Colosseum, which once held brutal fights to the death for the entertainment of thousands. Standing in the stalls, one can imagine the roars and jeers from the baiting crowds. Opposite is Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, from which some of the best views in the city can be found, looking down over the ruins of the residences of many Roman emperors, including Augustus (27 BC-14 AD), Tiberius (14-37) and Domitian (81-96).

Fontana di Trevi, Rome, Italy / Photo by Claire for Europe Explored

London

The British Empire is one with a long and treacherous history. London has a regal sense about it, with cultural monuments still standing proudly across the city – many of which, such as Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, are still being used today as the centres of the monarchy and Government, respectively. The Tower of London, along the north bank of the River Thames, was built primarily by William the Conqueror in 1078, with many phases of expansion across the centuries. Juxtaposed with the historical sites is modern urban London, with many waves of immigrants creating a cultural hotpot in areas such as Brixton and Camden, where restaurants serve cuisines from across the globe and boutique shops and market stalls trade in unique gifts.

London, England, United Kingdom by Tim Morris

Berlin

Berlin is a strange mix of cultures, which is sometimes a little difficult to feel at ease with. On one hand, you have the ever-present reminders of its recent history, in the form of Third Reich tours or visits to the Iron Curtain and the location of Hitler’s bunker, where he spent his last few hours. While fascinating, it can also be spine-chilling, thinking how recent those terrible events were. However, there are plenty of opportunities to chill out, with quirky urban spectacles such as pop-up nightclubs, and underground ping-pong events, held in derelict buildings. The best way to do this is get talking to the locals and ask if they know of any happenings close by. A sure-fire destination for weekend parties, though, would be Farbfernseher in Kreuzberg.

Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany by Bill Tyne

With so many routes and tour companies available to help you travel across the continent or dedicate your time to discovering one particular city, there is no excuse not to learn about these fascinating hubs, no matter what your budget.

Written by Kat Kraetzer, a travel blogger who loves to visit Europe.

The post Europe’s Best Cultural Hotspots appeared first on Europe Explored.

1) Zurich

The number one place to live in Europe is Zurich. Zurich has a tiny population and a wealth of bars and restaurants as well as stunning views of the Alps. Taxes are some of the lowest in Switzerland and its education and medical facilities are superb. It is however extremely expensive and property here comes with an equally big price tag.

Zürich and lake Zürich, Switzerland by MadGeographer

2) Vienna

Voted number two is Vienna in Austria. The whole of the city centre in this beautiful city has been designated a UN World Heritage Site, and the city boasts an excellent education system and superb infrastructure. It hosts around 200 balls a year, the Opera Ball being the most famous, and a regular feature of the Viennese Carnival season.

Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria by Gryffindor

3) Geneva

Next up and following very closely – if not jointly tied – is Geneva in Switzerland. One of the most attractive and cultured cities in the world, this really is a stunning city and offers a fantastic quality of life. More than 40% of the population here comes from outside of Switzerland which is a testament to its huge appeal.

Brundwick Monument in Geneva, Switzerland by Zeke

4) Dusseldorf

In fourth place is Düsseldorf in Germany with a great infrastructure and international transport system. Set on the banks of the Rhine, another stunning city in which to live – and especially work. This German bastion is known as a business and financial hub, as well as for its renowned artisanal beer, and an intense rivalry with the nearby city of Cologne.

Dusseldorf, Germany by Johann H. Addicks

5) Munich

Munich is very close behind. Possibly best known for Oktoberfest, a two week festival featuring the best in beers. The Munich Biennale is another draw for tourists, and a great example of the rich operatic culture in the city. Known for its publishing houses, Munich is a popular destination for emigrating editors and writers.

Munich, Germany by Diliff

6) Frankfurt

Frankfurt is the largest financial centre in Europe, with significant commercial interests. It is also the most expensive place to live in Germany, but is very family friendly, and is known as a ‘Green City’; with over half of the area within the city limits being protected outdoor space. It also boasts 8 festivals a year and two botanical gardens.

Saint Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Frankfurt, Germany by rupp.de

7) Bern

Number 7 in our list is Bern, again in Switzerland, the world’s second safest city and excellent medical facilities. Like Vienna, the town centre has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to 114 significant heritage sites, making it the perfect expatriate destination for history buffs.

Bern, Switzerland by Daniel Schwen

8) Copenhagen

Number eight in our list is Copenhagen, capital of Denmark, again, an expensive city but it does boast no less than eleven Michelin Starred restaurants, the best international schools and medical facilities. The city is also known for its exquisite promenades and waterfront structures, contributing to the cultural beauty of Denmark.

Amagertorv in Copenhagen, Denmark by Furya

9) Amsterdam

Number nine sees Amsterdam step up to the mark with its liberal attitudes, network of canals and a family friendly reputation. Reliance on cycling helps make the city a healthier place to live, and the gay friendly vibe contributes to the feel good atmosphere for residents. 55% of housing is government owned, with tenants heavily favoured by law – making Amsterdam a haven for renters.

Amsterdam, Netherlands by Swimmerguy269

10)Brussels

Finally Brussels in Belgium makes it into our top ten with great schools and a thriving ex pat community. It has a mainly bilingual population, speaking both Dutch and French (making the city more accessible). In addition, 25% of the population are of Muslim background, making it a great place for Islamic expatriates.

Brussels, Belgium by Wouter Hagens

Written by Helen Shepard from Movers International, a professional ex pat with a spirit of wanderlust.

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Channel tunnel, UK <=> France by Mortadelo2005

Aeroplane: there are a high number of flights leaving from all of our UK airports and going to pretty much any airport in Europe. The flights are usually quite short, anything from a 40 minute trip to Amsterdam, an hour’s flying time to Spain, or a four hour journey to get to Turkey. Aeroplane is the quickest method of transportation to get anywhere. There are, a number of people, however, with an aversion to flying, some don’t enjoy it, or really don’t like to fly. If this describes your or someone in your family, then you may feel like you have limitations placed on where you can go to, but there are a number of other methods of transportation for you to take advantage of.

The train: you can drive down to the channel tunnel and take the train over to France, from here you can drive or take a coach or further to trains to get to anywhere you need to get to. This journey can take a bit longer, the drive or train journey to get to the channel tunnel can take a full day depending on where in the UK you live. Once you are in France, you will need to continue to travel for anything up to one or two days more, if for example, you were going to Spain, once you have got off the train in France, you’d either need to drive for about a day or get a train which will take a few hours to get into Spain. The trains are comfortable and offer food, drinks, as well as a bathroom, so you will be travelling in relative comfort.

Ferry UK to France from Dover by Harvey Barrison

The Ferry: if you are unhappy going on the channel tunnel, if the idea of a train underwater concerns you, but equally you do not enjoy flying, consider taking the ferry. You will need to either drive or take the train to Dover in order to meet with your ferry, if you have driven there you can put your car on the ferry so that you can use it when you get to Europe. The ferry ride takes an hour or two to get to dock in Calais, France. From here you can either take another train to whichever European country you wish to visit or you can drive yourself. The train/car journey length will vary depending on which country you are going to and whether you make any stops along the way.

Whilst it may take a little longer to get the train or the ferry, it is much cheaper in costs, and further to this, you get to see more of the countries you are travelling through, if your holiday is a trip to Spain, you can tell your friends that you’ve also been to France too. Travelling to Europe now, is as easy as travelling in and around the UK, and with work being continually carried out, the trip is sure to get easier and easier.