Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the quintessential kick-off to any student’s European adventure. Many people believe the city has two sides (riding a yellow bicycle over a picturesque bridge vs smoking the devil's lettuce at a Red Light District coffeeshop), but to the people of the Netherlands, these things coexist naturally. There’s plenty to do in Amsterdam, but, as with any city, use your judgement. Also, be sure to spend some time by the water—in 2010 the Canal Belt neighborhoods were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Popular Attractions: Red Light District, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank's House