Amsterdam is truly a biker’s city, although pedaling along the labyrinthine streets can get a little chaotic. Stick to walking and you won’t be disappointed. The gentle canals make a perfect backdrop for exploring the Jordaan and Rembrandtplein square. Pop into the Red Light District if you must—if only so you can say you’ve been there. The Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences a traveller can have, and the Van Gogh Museum boasts a sensational collection of works.

Home to the Netherlands’ oldest university and the birthplace of Rembrandt, Leiden also served as a several-year stop-off between England and the New World for America’s Pilgrim fathers in the early 17th century. Today, lovely Leiden boasts the second-largest Dutch city center after Amsterdam. The National Museum of Antiquities has an impressive collection of Egyptian artifacts. The Hortus Botanicus, established in 1590, was the site of the planting of Holland’s first tulip bulbs in 1593.

This ancient and historic city houses many buildings going back to the early Middle Ages. Until it was overtaken by Amsterdam in the Dutch Golden age, Utrecht was the most important city in the Netherlands. It was and still is the See of the Archbishop of Utrecht, the most important Catholic leader in the Netherlands. The University of Utrecht is the largest in the Netherlands. One of the unique features of the city is the wharf system in its inner canals. Before the city was fully canalised, parts of the Rhine River flowed through the city center. Most prominent of the historic buildings is the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Martin, the construction of which lasted for almost 200 year, beginning in 1254.

Lying about 15 miles northeast of Rotterdam, Gouda is most famous for its eponymous cheese. One of its most prized attractions, De Waag on the town square, was once a weighing house for cheese traders and now features an exhibit detailing the entire cheese making process. Also on the square is the 15th-century town hall, one of the oldest in the Netherlands. On Thursday mornings during the summer, the town’s Markt turns back into a traditional cheese market, something not to be missed.

Monolithic gates still protect Amersfoort, a well-preserved medieval city that remains connected to its history. Built into the foundations of 13th-century defensive walls, the Muurhuizen wall houses are one of the city’s most intriguing features. Art enthusiasts should visit the Mondriaan House (birthplace of abstract artist Piet Mondriaan) and the Armando Museum, a collection of works by the famed Dutch painter.

The Hague is a study in contrasts — a captivating blend of new styles and old masters in a historic city synonymous with peace and justice. With easy access to both city and beach, The Hague offers everything from royal palaces and timeless Dutch fishing harbours to endless opportunities to stroll the streets alongside the 'Hagenaars' and 'Hagenezen' as you explore exotic cuisine and unforgettable shopping experiences.

Holland's most modern city began as a fishing village in the 13th century. It was developing into an industrial and trading power when German bombers destroyed the city centre and harbour in 1940. However, Rotterdam's unique architecture now brings many visitors to cycle around this urbane, cosmopolitan city. Old Dutch-style houses can still be found in historic Delfshaven, from where the pilgrims set sail in 1620. Cultural offerings ranging from the summer carnival to classical music can compete with those of Amsterdam.

Skiing at Hahnenkamm and the Kitzbühler Horn, Kitzbühl's two primary ski areas, is the thing to do during the town's winter season. Boasting more than 60 lifts, Kitzbühl has slopes for everyone from beginners to professionals, who gather annually at Die Strief for the skiing World Cup.

The southern France city of Toulouse is a study in contrasts. Visit the Academie des Jeux Floraux, the oldest literary society in the western world, as well as the Galerie du Chateau d'eau, the world's first photography museum. Stroll the Garonne, before visiting France's most beautiful pipe organ at the Saint-Sernin Basilica. Yet for all its medieval architecture, Toulouse is a modern city, home to the European aerospace industry, as well as bars and restaurants in bustling Place du Capitole.

Ibiza: Old Spanish for "party 'til you drop." Perhaps not literally, but this is definitely one of Europe's favourite nightlife playgrounds. Ibiza boasts more than 100 miles of coastline with some 50 beaches, plus plenty of restaurants, bars, and water sports—and clubs, of course. Fit in a little culture and visit Ibiza's UNESCO-designated old town.

This big resort—the largest on Gran Canaria—was developed in the 1960s specifically as a tourist area. And all types of tourists have found it. LGBT travellers, families with kids, au naturel sunbathers, honeymooners, groups of young singles… there’s a spot for everybody on the beach here (and a hotel or apartment for every budget).

Los Cristianos was a humble fishing village before it became known as a convalescent resort for Swedes. Now it’s a playground for beachgoers from all over Europe, thanks to sunny weather and plentiful hotel options. At night, you’ll find a lively bar scene.

Lonavala is one of the twin hill stations located near to each other, the other being Khandala. These hill stations are very popular getaway spots for people from Mumbai and Pune, which are very well-linked with Lonavala by road and rail. Monsoons are the best time to visit Lonavala/Khandala.