Canals, bikes, and world-class museums — an easy weekend away by train or budget flight.
Founded as a small fishing village in the 12th century, Amsterdam grew into a major world trading power during the Dutch Golden Age, when merchant wealth financed its famous concentric canal ring. Today it's known for that UNESCO-listed canal system, world-class art from Rembrandt and Van Gogh, and one of the most bike-friendly city centers in the world.