"Amsterdam may be the capital, but the Dutch parliament meets in this stunning city on the North Sea. Within its Gothic-style Inner Court lie some of the country’s best museums, including an homage to M.C. Escher and the Mauritshuis (which houses Girl with the Pearl Earring). Most locals, though, flock to The Hague for its beaches: long stretches of sand lined with lively boulevards, seafood restaurants, and breezy beach clubs. How to get there: Direct trains from Amsterdam bring you to The Hague in 50 minutes." - Chris Schalkx