The lowest country in Europe still has a high point—the Vaalserberg

It's all about canals, tulips, cycling, and world-class museums. You should go if: You like museums, canals and cycling You want to see tulip fields in spring You prefer easy day trips by train Must-visit places: Amsterdam: The Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House (book ahead) Keukenhof: Spring gardens with millions of bulbs, open roughly late March to mid-May Kinderdijk: A UNESCO-listed line of windmills Utrecht, Delft and The Hague: Canals, pottery and politics Giethoorn: A village with no streets, only canals Visit Gouda for the best cheese! Must-try foods: Stroopwafel: Syrup waffle, best warm Haring: Raw herring with onions Bitterballen with mustard Poffertjes: Mini pancakes Gouda and frites with mayonnaise Fun facts: There are more bicycles than people. A large share of the country lies below sea level, protected by dikes. Amsterdam has more canals than Venice has. Logistics: Best time: April to May for tulips; September for fewer crowds Currency: Euro; cards are preferred, and some places do not accept cash Getting around: Trains, trams and bikes; watch for cyclists before stepping into the bike lane Tipping: Round up or about 5 to 10 percent Entry: Schengen Area Must-learn phrases: Hello: Hallo Please: Alsjeblieft Thank you: Dank je wel Goodbye: Tot ziens Do you speak English?: Spreekt u Engels? Cheers!: Proost!