Many cruises to northern Europe include a stopover in Amsterdam as a port of call. Other small ship river cruises travel the canals of the Netherlands. Here are some of the top guide books to help you learn about the small country of the Netherlands. There's more to see than just tulips, windmills, dikes, and wooden shoes.
1. Lonely Planet the Netherlands
From the Lonely Planet series. Travel guide devoted to the entire country. Especially good to use if you are exploring outside of Amsterdam.
2. Rick Steves' France, Belgium & the Netherlands
Rick Steves has a wonderful sense of humor, and it shows in this wonderful guidebook. Lots of useful facts about Holland, including sights to see (some "through the back door.")3. Michelin - The Netherlands
Michelin travel guide to the Netherlands.4. Eyewitness Travel Guide: Amsterdam
Passport illustrated travel guide series from Thomas Cook travel organization. Many pages of maps and photos.5. Fodor's - Amsterdam
Fodor's travel guide to Amsterdam.