For those with a passion for architecture, there is no better day trip from Amsterdam than a trip to Rotterdam. After the city was flattened during World War II, they have worked to rebuild it into a modern mastery of architecture with a wide variety of building structures. Rotterdam houses Europe’s largest port. It is known for its large number of summer festivals and events, including cultural festivals and impressive sporting events such as the Rotterdam Open Judo Championship and the Dutch Open Badminton Championships.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands by Dietmut Teijgeman-Hansen

2. The Hague

Head out to The Hague for history, museums, and judicial courts. Although The Hague is not the capital of the Netherlands, it has the seat for the Dutch government and parliament and is Queen Beatrix’s residence. There are a variety of palaces, museums, and narrow streets to explore. The Hague does not have Amsterdam’s excitement but instead offers expansive coastline and green space as well as quaint shopping.

3. Haarlem

For a smaller, more quaint version of Amsterdam, make your way to Haarlem for the day.. It is known for having one of the most impressive cathedrals in the Netherlands. Haarlem offers culture, historical architecture, and the internationally famous Dutch bulb fields, giving it the nickname the City of Flowers. While you are there, take a small detour to Zandvoort, which has the best beaches and coastal dunes that the Netherlands has to offer.

4. Utrecht

This university town with a charming medieval city center is another great place to visit.  Utrecht is famous for its numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants and one of a kind double-tiered canals. Explore museums, boutique shops, modern architecture, and museums. There are eleven museums in Utrecht that offer a wide range of collections. If you are visiting on a Sunday, take part in their Cultural Sundays with different events and festivals every month. The city is small enough that you can take in everything on foot.

Utrecht, The Netherlands by CeBepuH

5. Bruges, Belgium

Head out of the Netherlands for a day to the neighboring Bruges, Belgium for history, lace factories, churches, Begijnhof, and exquisite shopping. Take a tour and sample the beer at the De Halve Maan brewery, which is known for its traditional Brugse Zot. Dating back to 1546, it is made from hops, malt, and yeast. Their guided tour takes you through the history of the brewery and their production process. Bruges a wide variety of museums that include collections classic fine arts, Flemish primitives, archaeological excavations, furniture, silverware, folklore, contemporary art, and more. There is something here for everyone. Finally, while you’re in Bruges, you can’t forget to pick up some famous Belgian chocolate.

When visiting The Netherlands, why not check out the range of short term apartment rentals available in the main cities. There are a number of Worldwide Accom apartments in Amsterdam for rent to suit any budget.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by penwin

1) Keukenhof

First, have you ever seen photos of fields of flowers — that look more like bold, dramatic stripes that go on forever? Well, you were probably looking at images from Keukenhof; it’s the largest flower garden in the world, and is known as “The Garden of Europe.” From March to May, you’ll see long rows of blooms in hues such as purple, yellow and red. About seven million flower bulbs are planted each year. It really is a spectacle not to be missed. You’ll find dining and accommodations at fine establishments such as Restaurant-Hotel Savelberg and NH Zandvoort.

2) Rotterdam

Next, travel over to Rotterdam, the second biggest city in this country. Here you’ll find the largest shipping port in Europe — and because of its vast commerce network, Rotterdam is known as “The Gateway to Europe.” Home of Erasmus University, this city was almost completely destroyed by bombing during World War II. It now, however, is a thriving metropolitan area that hosts several cultural festivals each year, such as for film and music. For meals, step inside Izakaya or Restaurant Ivy, and stay overnight at Hotel van Walsum or Hotel New York.

3) Delft

Another must-see, especially for pottery lovers and history buffs, is Delft. The old city of Delft holds much history — including tales about William of Orange — and is home to the famous blue pottery, which several factories there make. But take a tour at the Royal Dutch Delftware Factory to see just exactly how it’s made. For staying overnight, try Van Der Dussen or Matties. Restaurants worth trying include Hampshire Hotel and Bridges House Hotel.

4) Amsterdam

No trip to the Netherlands would be complete without stopping by Amsterdam — home of the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. You might like to rent an apartment for the duration of your stay, and if so, renting one of the many Amsterdam apartments might even be less expensive than hotel rooms. Some Amsterdam accommodations include those in the heart of the city and on the outskirts. If being on your own and experiencing this city by blending in with the locals is for you, then renting your own apartment for the holiday. Check out the local cuisine too, such as found at De Kas and the Pancake Bakery.

5) Alkmaar

Finally, stop by Alkmaar. There you’ll discover the Cheese Museum. If you’re a fan of the culinary arts, you won’t want to miss this tour. Also, grab a bite to eat at Hof van Alkmaar or Portofino. If you stay overnight, try the Grand Hotel Alkmaar or the Golden Tulip.
With these top-five cities on your itinerary, you’ll store up a lifetime of memories, and your entire trip will be packed full of excitement. Do your research before you go, and you’ll have an appreciation of the Netherlands that will forever stay with you.

Robin Sharman is a travel blogger who writes about places to visit all over Europe.  A keen traveller, Robin also recommends renting apartments in Rome, Paris and London instead of always going to hotels.

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It was back in 1953 when the Východná Heritage Festival was first held. Originally, the festival was held in an open air field that overlooked the village; however, within the last decade a large theater was developed in the area in order to house the annual event. Every year, usually during the first weekend of the month of July, the Východná Heritage Festival is held in the newly constructed open-air theater.

Due to the fact that the Východná Heritage Festival is now considered part of the International Council of Organizations for Folklore Festivals and Folk Art, more than 1500 performers come to the festival every single year in order to entertain almost 100,000 people who regularly attend the annual event.

For the most part, much of the Východná Heritage Festival is held within the open-air theater, however there are a number of smaller events that can be found throughout the village; before, during as well as after the annual event. You will also find a number of kiosks located throughout the city during the event in order to ensure that there are plenty of refreshments and things to eat for the numerous visitors who come to this sleepy little village areas. The festival itself is also recorded and presented around Slovakia thanks to the efforts of state Slovak Television.

There is also a substantial amount of effort being put into ensure there is sufficient lodgings in and around the village of Východná in order to accommodate large influx of visitors. There are countless warding houses, hotels as well as other accommodation facilities that can be found in and around the village.

The Východná Heritage Festival is definitely a unique and interesting Festival to visit regardless of whether you are simply visiting Slovakia for the season, or even if you live there year-round. You are bound to stay entertained throughout your entire trip to the sleepy little village of Východná. So if you are visiting Slovakia during the early part of July, make sure to take a day and head on over to the Východná Heritage Festival.

Photos by festivalvychodna.sk

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