Whether you’re snacking on sweet stroopwafels and browsing the antiques at Noordermarkt or taking in a boundary-pushing dance performance at a local theater, Amsterdam combines old and new at every turn. You’ll find world-class museums, including the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, 17th-century canal houses, stunning industrial architecture, and vibrant cafes overlooking the city’s famous canals — where the water can turn into makeshift ice rinks in the winter. The canal district of Nine Streets showcases independent boutiques, while the city’s major squares, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, are brimming with nightlife. If you’re looking for some greenery, Hortus Botanicus is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens.

For a bird’s eye view of the city, head to the panoramic observation deck of the multi-use space A’dam Lookout where you can also ride on Europe’s highest swing, Over the Edge, more than 325 feet above ground.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the primary entry point for international visitors and a major European hub for long-haul connections. Its location just south of the city center means that a cab ride or train journey into the city center takes less than 30 minutes. The Netherlands is renowned for its extensive, efficient public transit system, and you can ride the train in and out of other neighboring countries as well. In the city, Amsterdam’s iconic blue-and-white trams are a mainstay for locals and visitors alike, and dedicated bike lanes and a distinct lack of hills make this one of the world’s most bike-friendly cities.

For a kaleidoscopic show of famous Dutch tulips, head to your Amsterdam rental in the spring. This is also when you’re less likely to encounter rain, although the city’s weather is famously hard to predict — an umbrella and waterproof jacket are musts here. Summer brings everyone outside, whether they’re biking into the surrounding countryside, soaking up some sun on a canal boat, or chilling at a waterfront café. Koningsdag (King’s Day) on April 27 is a national celebration of epic proportions. Join the locals by dressing in orange — the color of the Netherlands — and soaking up the festive atmosphere as people line the canals and set up stalls outside their homes. Later in the year, June gathers international artists and musicians all month long for the Holland Festival. During winter time, Amsterdam’s oceanic climate brings cold, blustery weather.

Electric Ladyland

Tucked away behind the Anne Frank House and beneath an art gallery, Electric Ladyland claims to be the first museum dedicated to fluorescence. Head here for in depth insight into the science behind phosphorescence, from small-scale minerals to all-encompassing experiences where you become part of the art. Just be sure to book ahead, as appointments are the only way to visit.

Amsterdamse Bos

This 2,500-acre forest is one of Europe’s largest city parks. Here you’ll find miles of walking and cycling paths, pretty bridges to stroll across, as well as areas for hockey, tennis, cricket, football, and swimming. Plus there are a number of spots here for refueling and relaxing, including cafes, restaurants, and a spa.

Amsterdam-Oost

This vibrant East Amsterdam district strikes a balance between historic and hip. Sandwiched between the Amstel Canal and the historic Jewish Quarter, you’ll find galleries featuring work by Dutch creatives, a stunning concert hall, and restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world. You could easily spend a day here wandering past the grand fountains in Oosterpark, going shopping at the area’s vintage and design-focused stores, browsing the 100-year-old street market known as Dappermarkt, grabbing a coffee at a canal cafe, and checking out the quirky bars and breweries.