traveldk.com

This is where it all started: Amsterdam’s main square is on the site of the dam on the Amstel around which the city grew. Now it hosts markets, events and all shades of city life (see Dam Square).

One of the smarterproeflokaalen (tasting houses) in the city – and unlike the rest, it closes late. Collapse on the couches and knock back the potent liquors andjenever .

At the junction of Herensgracht and Reguliersgracht, and with views over both, this friendly hotel’s beamed bedrooms are bigger than most, and it’s close enough to the nightlife for breakfast to be optional.

In 1544, the nuns at this cloister started making beer, a tradition that was revitalized a few years ago – and there’s a fine restaurant.

The charm and ambience of this canalside restaurant more than make up for the somewhat variable quality of the food.

Unable to wait for Saturday’s organic market? Then head to this friendly organic store. Pulses, grains, candles, soaps, fresh fruit and vegetables, plus a good selection of wine and beer.

Named “The Beehive” (which just about sums it up if you’re here at the weekend), Amsterdam’s prestigious department store caters for everyone from children to clubbers. Often described as the Dutch Harrods, prices ensure that it’s only the well-honied that tend to part with their cash here.

Undoubtedly one of the most charming restaurants in the area. Delicious, well-priced vegetarian (and vegan) food with a wicked dessert selection.

Nicknamed “the castle” because of its crenellated façade, this is the oldest Trades Union building in the Netherlands, built in 1900 by H P Berlage of Beurs fame for the General Dutch Diamond Workers’ Union (ANDB). Go inside for the stunning tiled entrance hall and staircase, and murals by Richard Roland Holst of the Amsterdam School.