When visiting the Netherlands, it's possible to spend a full day on the beach without even leaving the city! Voted one of the world's best city beaches, Amsterdam's BIijburg lives up to its title. Located east of Amsterdam, the hip resort opens onto the freshwater IJsselmeer lake with sandy beaches, volleyball, an atmospheric café and "glamping" spots.
Chill out with the locals to live music and regular festivals. If you're in Utrecht, head for Strand Oog in Al (SOIA) in the Oog in Al park, which offers a grass and sand beach on the canal, an atmospheric café and a children's play area. The venue regularly plays live music and hosts DJs and festivals, a music lover's heaven.