Amsterdam is a wonderful city full of cultural gems, outdoor art, wonderful architecture and friendly people. It may be relatively small for a European capital city, but it is bursting with history, world-class museums as well as other attractions. Radiating out from the Dam Square, the historic centre of the city is ringed by quaint canals and cobbled streets, thronged with bicycles, tourists, houseboats, students, and street performers. The city wears two faces: on one it smiles and beckons hedonistic youth with its notorious Red Light District and liberal view of marijuana use, while on the other it offers some of Europe's finest museums and art galleries.

 

There are plenty ways for visitors of any age to get to know Amsterdam’s charms and people. Cruising Amsterdam’s canals puts the city in perspective while offering unique views of dozens of spectacular sights in a short period of time. With more than 1,000 bridges to cross, eye-candy architecture to photograph and countless cozy cafes for breaks along the way, Amsterdam is also meant to be walked and explored by foot. Or just take a bike as everyone does in the Netherlands. It is by far the fastest way to make your way through several of the city’s charming neighborhoods and to explore Amsterdam’s sights.

 

Be sure to plan some time for Amsterdam’s many museums which rank among the city’s most popular attractions. Home to fine historical artifacts (Rijksmuseum), the works of treasured Dutch artists (Van Gogh Museum) and the story of a little girl whose impact on the world is nothing less than extraordinary (Anne Frank House), these are only a few of the Amsterdam museums visitors should check off their list. More than 40 other museums make Amsterdam’s attractions as diverse as the city itself.

 

 

Also Amsterdam is undeniably the shopping capital of the Netherlands. Whether you're a bargain hunter or a label hound, Amsterdam's shopping choices will keep you busy for days on end.