DK Travel : Amsterdam

Amsterdam has an appeal that is absolutely unique. It’s a vibrant place, a treasure-trove of extraordinary artistic riches, and the living embodiment of 900 years of history, during which it rose to become the centre of a huge global empire. After a period of decline, it matured into today’s relaxed and tolerant modern metropolis. Elegant and serene, Amsterdam also has its seamy side, and this too is part of its character, as much as its famous network of canals. Whatever you are looking for, this small city packs a big punch.

Café Zouk

A fushion menu at this nonn- touristy café-restaurant, which is popular with the locals.
Cafe' Daalder

Visiting Cafe Daalder has been one of the most "gezellig" dining experiences I have had in a long time. This traditional Dutch style brown cafe is conveniently located in the historic Jordaan area of Amsterdam and truly is a real hidden gem to the untrained eye. Daalder offers delicious high quality, creative cuisine at a very modest price indeed, which by far exceeded my initial expectations. A wonderful surprise to discover after a long string of disappointments after moving to the city. For those who appreciate beautifully presented, hand crafted dishes that wont blow your budget, this restaurant is an absolute must whilst in Amsterdam!
Canal Bikes

Explore the canals at your own pace. Adults may well find these pedal boats energysapping, but children will love them. They seat either two or four people, and can be boarded at four different central locations (see Canal Bikes).
Canal House

The Golden Age lives on in this tranquil pair of 17th-century canal houses, filled from top to bottom with antiques. Breakfast beneath a chandelier in the ornate salon with a view of the garden. The bedrooms are individually decorated (and priced).
Canals and Waterways

Amsterdam’s canals – in particular, the elegant ring of three 17th-century canals known as the Grachtengordel – are its defining feature (see Canals and Waterways).
Cannabis

Don’t even think about it.
Capsicum Natuurstoffen

This store sells a huge range of gorgeous printed and embroidered silks, linens and cottons, imported from all over the world.
Carré

Originally built as a circus theatre in 1894, circus troupes still appear at this impressive landmark on the banks of the Amstel – along with anything from opera to ballet, magicians to music. Nothing beats sipping champagne on the balcony overlooking the river on a warm evening (see Koninklijk Theater Carré).
Cees Nooteboom

Prolific man of letters (b.1933) whose fiction is at best observant and poignant, at worst experimental and elusive.
Centraal Station

For many visitors, their experience of Amsterdam begins at Centraal Station, the transport hub of the city, where some 1,400 trains arrive and leave every day. It was built in the 1880s in Neo-Renaissance style by P J H Cuypers, who was also responsible for the startlingly similar Rijksmuseum, and A L van Gendt, designer of the Concertgebouw. Before work on the building could start, three artificial islands had to be constructed and 8,600 wooden piles sunk to support them. The fact that the building blocked Amsterdammers’ view of the sea caused much controversy at the time. The ornate red-brick façade depicts themes of travel, trade and city history, picked out in gold and other colours. If you have time to while away, the station restaurant Eerste Klas serves full and light meals in a splendid Art Nouveau setting.

Jump to top

Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €90
- €90–€140
- €140–€200
- €200–€250
- over €250
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€45
- €45–€60
- over €60