The Netherlands are perfectly suited to a short break – it's just a short flight, ferry ride, or eurostar journey away. Travel with your car by ferry to experience the bulb fields outside Amsterdam.

Whereas its neighbouring city Bruges is subdued, Amsterdam is a little more riotous but no less pretty and characteristic. Like Bruges, it's a city characterised by a network of canals and a strong historical and cultural heritage – it's full of museums, galleries and churches. But Amsterdam has something of a more mischievous air about it, visible in its notorious nightlife and legendary café culture. Great fun and widely regarded as one Europe's most friendly cities, Amsterdam has a spirit all of its very own.