Of all the cities in Europe, Amsterdam is one of the most delightful, its bustling markets, magnificent art galleries, olive-green canals and gabled houses famous throughout the world. One of its special charms is its small-city feel with all the key attractions within easy walking distance. The hub of the city is its splendid train station, Centraal Station. From there it’s a hop and a jump to both Dam Square and the notorious Red Light District – with the picturesque canals that lattice the old centre beckoning as does the floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt.
The pick of Amsterdam tourism
The best way to get your bearings is a canal cruise. Afterwards, three must-sees are the Anne Frank House, a powerful memorial to the Holocaust; the Rijksmuseum with its fabulous collection of Dutch art; and the Van Gogh Museum, which holds the world’s largest exhibition of the artist’s paintings. There are other art galleries too as well as the intriguing Amsterdam Museum, which tracks through the city’s history with gusto.
