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.

Kitsch

Aficianados of kitsch will love the style of this perfectly pink restaurant. Ask for the corner mattress when booking, or a table with its own water fountain.
Kitsch Kitchen

Ample to spice up your kitchen and accessorize the cooks. Pop across the nearby Rozengracht to number 183, where “Kitsch Kitchen Kids” has a range for the little people.
Koffie Verkeerd

If you like your coffee milky, “wrong coffee” is what to ask for.
Koninginnedag

On the Queen’s birthday, the whole city becomes a gigantic street party. The locals sell bric-a-brac from stalls outside their houses, there’s a fair in Dam Square, and people dressed in monarchist orange throng the streets. Music blares, fireworks fill the night sky, and the party goes on till dawn.
Koninklijk Paleis

Supported by a staggering 13,659 wooden piles, Jacob van Campen’s Classical building occupies one side of Dam Square. Designed as theStadhuis (town hall), it was transformed into a Royal Palace in 1808 by King Louis Bonaparte. Although it is still used for official functions, such as the wedding reception of Crown Prince Willem-Alexander in February 2002), the present royal family live elsewhere. The interior is breathtaking (see Koninklijk Paleis).
Koninklijk Theater Carré

It is hard to believe that the magnificent Carré Theatre, superbly set beside the Amstel, was built at break-neck speed in 1887 to house Oscar Carré’s circus. A copy of his other circus in Cologne, it has a fine Neo-Renaissance frontage, some splendid ironwork, and is decorated appropriately with the heads of clowns and dancers. Today, it hosts pop concerts, dance shows, lavish musicals, and even the occasional circus.
Kopstoot

Aptly named, akopstoot (head knock) is apils swiftly followed by ajenever chaser.
Korfbal

A cross between netball and basketball. Blauw Wit is the club to watch.
La Tertulia

A mother and daughter team run this bright, split-level canalside coffeeshop. Perfect for firsttimers.
Land van Walem

Sip a champagne cocktail on the canal-side terrace, or show off your latest designer wear to the fashionable crowd inside one of Amsterdam’s most popular cafés. Piles of magazines and intriguing artworks help while away the time (see Het Land van Walem).

Jump to top

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