Things to do in The Netherlands, no research required

The capital, a quieter old town half an hour down the line, and the suburb that’s worth the tram ride. Amsterdam carries the bulk of it, from the big-name experiences to the canal-side bars. The second city adds its own waterways and a compact center with room to breathe. The third fills in for the day you want out of the crowds entirely. Bars and restaurants are the deepest categories by far, with a solid run of museums and galleries if that matters more to your trip. Useful on the train between them as much as on foot in any one.