Amsterdam originally emerged as a fishing village in the late 12th century, following the construction of a dam on the Netherlands’ Amstel River. Since those humble beginnings, Amsterdam’s development has been rapid and vast. Through the ‘Golden Age’, when Amsterdam was the world’s leading centre for finance and diamonds; the age of gold and silver; and periods of recession and recovery, the city grew to become the charming Dutch capital that’s adored by so many.

Today Amsterdam boasts one of the largest and most beautiful historic centres in Europe. Spread across 90 islands – linked by 400 bridges spanning the city’s iconic canals – the centre is packed with around 7,000 historic buildings, including many which date back to the ‘Golden Age’. Among the most impressive are the Royal Palace, which dominates Dam Square; a number of churches including the 17th century Westerkerk, Amsterdam’s tallest church; and the medieval houses of Begijnhof. Not to be missed is the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring district. Here you’ll see some of the city’s finest houses and grand mansions perched on along the canal sides; as well as traditional white drawbridges.

Amsterdam is also home to a collection of incredible museums and galleries, many of which are world-renowned for their cultural, artistic and historical importance. There’s Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and her family famously hid from the German occupiers in World War Two; Rijksmuseum, exhibiting ‘Golden Age’ paintings by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum, celebrating the life and works of legendary Vincent Van Gogh; and much more. In the spring and summer months, trips to the Tulip Museum and the Keukenhof Gardens are a must.

For a little retail therapy Amsterdam’s abundance of shopping streets and busy markets won’t disappoint; while there are plenty of trendy cafés, bars and restaurants dotted around the city too. And of course, the iconic red light district brings a wealth of unique sights and experiences. Simply walking through the area is an experience in itself.

Situated on the Rhine River in the centre of the Rhine-Rhur region, charming Cologne is the beating heart of the beautiful Rhineland. Originally founded over 2,000 years ago by the Ubii tribe, Cologne was once the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire and served as a major trade route throughout the Middle Ages. In recent years the city has been extensively rebuilt and restructured, and is now one of the most important historical and cultural centres in Europe.

With such a rich history and heritage, Cologne is a picture book of fascinating highlights and experiences. The city’s most iconic site is without doubt the magnificent UNESCO-listed Cathedral, which has long been considered Germany’s single most popular attraction. The soaring gothic spires of this incredible 13th century structure can be seen from all over the city, however visiting the cathedral is a must to marvel at its spectacular architecture up-close and uncover the treasures within.

The city’s many other must-visit sights and attractions include the impressive Hohenzollern Bridge, which spans the Rhine near the cathedral; a collection of 12 glorious Romanesque churches including St Kunibert, St Severin and St Andreas; the beautiful Forstbotanischer botanical garden; and several galleries and museums such as the Fragrance Museum and Museum Ludwig, which boasts one of the Europe’s finest Picasso collections. For a taste of the local culture – and of the local brew – be sure to stop by Altstadt district, where bustling pubs and beer halls serve the city’s famous sweet pale ale, Kölsch.