Amsterdam is one of our favourite European cities; the more we go back, the more we discover of this upscale, cultural destinations. What?s more, the Netherlands boasts a superb transport infrastructure, so it?s easy to experience more of the greater Amsterdam area without hiring a car, writes Andrew Forbes.
This autumn we headed to the Dutch capital of style and luxury to discover 5 unique day trip ideas…
1. Castles & Gardens River Cruise
Amsterdam is of course renowned for its picturesque and historical UNESCO canal district. Yet if you just head out of the city, within half an hour you?ll discover an entirely unique perspective of Amsterdam?s elegant history, from the Golden Age.

Together with the River Amstel, the charming River Vecht is one of the notable waterways of the Netherlands and from the privileged view point of a boat one can see many of the extraordinary estate homes, palaces and castles that have made this part of the country so well known amongst lovers of architecture, history and nature. During the 17th century Golden Age, many wealthy Dutch merchant invested in the area, as not only is it a beautiful part of the country, but it was also becoming a burgeoning commercial district. The growing success of investors here meant many built their luxury summer homes along the banks of the river Vecht, away from busy Amsterdam.
At least 50 of these historic estates remain and the best way to enjoy them is by hiring an elegant vintage boat with captain...