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.

Latei

A delightful café cum bric-a-brac store specializing in olive oil and Finnish wallpaper. Ideal for a light sandwich, fresh juice and decent-sized coffees. Everything is for sale.
Le Garage

The famous and beautiful of Amsterdam fill their tummies and empty their wallets here. The food is a delicate fusion of French with international cuisine.
Le Pêcheur

Crystal chandeliers, an elegant courtyard garden and genteel staff contribute to an atmosphere of timeless chic at this top, centrally located fish restaurant. Slip your lips around succulent oysters, revel in a classicbouillabaisse or go for something more adventurous, like roast monkfish with wild mushroom pasta, or flappingly fresh fish with an explosion of Thai spices.
Leiden

An easy-going university town, full of cycling students, Leiden offers plenty of canals, cafés and museums, as well as the lovely Hortus Botanicus.
Leidsegracht

For dream canal houses in pristine condition, look no further than sophisticated Leidsegracht, one of the city’s most sought-after addresses. At Herengracht 394, on the corner with Leidsegracht, notice the fine wall plaque depicting characters from a medieval legend – the fourHeemskinderen on their horse Beyaart. Another plaque, at No. 39, shows Cornelis Lely, who drew up the original plans for draining the Zuiderzee.
Leidseplein

The city’s tourist hub. Sophisticated it is not, tacky and fun (and, at night, often raucous) it is, especially in summer, when buskers and street performers, from family pop groups to lone fire-eaters, keep the milling throngs amused. Despite its rambling, dog-leg shape, Leidseplein is a natural gathering place, packed with fast food stalls, cafés and smoking coffee shops. Nightspots De Melkweg, Paradiso, and Holland Casino are close at hand, while for a more reflective diversion you can play chess on a giant outdoor chessboard in adjacent Max Euweplein, or stroll in the tiny Leidsebos park.
Lellebel

Amsterdam’s infamous – and only – dragshow bar, the complete antithesis of the testosterone-fuelled Rembrandtplein nearby. At first glance it’s unremarkable, but when Shirley Bassey is turned up on the soundsystem, the bar staff perform quite some routine.
Lime

One of the hippest and friendliest bars in the area, yet decidedly unpretentious.
Lloyd Hotel

Located in the newly re-developed 'docklands' area of Amsterdam, this old youth prison offers trendy accommodation.

The rooms are rated by stars from 1 to 5 and depending on your budget, you can choose the rooms accordingly.

The room layouts are very interesting as it used to be a prison, so for example ceiling height can be enormous. Also the bathroom is a corridor from the door to the bedroom (4* room)... Certainly shakes the conventions of room layouts! However, when have the Dutch ever been conventional?!

Location is slightly out of the touristy centre, but tram, which only 5mins walk away takes you to the centre in 10 minutes.
Lock Your Bike

Bicycle theft is rife. Make sure that you always lock both front wheel and frame to an immovable object.

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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