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.
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By the entrance to the Noorderkerk, a stillflourishing Protestant church, a sculpture commemorates theJordaanoproer (Jordaan riot) of 1934, in which seven people died during demonstrations against cuts in unemployment benefits. Today the tranquil surrounding square, a market site since 1627, comes to life during the Monday flea market and the Saturday bird market andboerenmarkt , selling organic produce.
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A stunning combination of historic Amsterdam and sophisticated modern style. The Odeon has it all from a café, restaurant, cocktail bar to a concert hall which doubles as a night club. The ultra-chic interior is within a building that dates back to 1662 by one of the city’s loveliest canals.
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Handy for the RAI Congresgebouw, the Okura offers top-of-the-range luxury and facilities to business travellers. It has four restaurants, including the Ciel Bleu perched on its 23rd floor.
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Friendly but basic hotel. Breakfast served in the bar. Over 60 different lagers among the well stocked bar.
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More of a wintertime bar, “Under the Stork” is warm, wooden and spacious.
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"Our Lord in the Attic." . A secret catholic church hidden in the attic of a canal house originating from the 17th century, at a time catholicism was illegal in Holland. Hidden away in the red light district, its well worth tracking down.
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Seen from the courtyard, the impressive red-brick façade, with its ornate entrance and stonedressed windows, was the height of corporate fashion. Headquarters of the once mighty Dutch East India Company (VOC), it was built in 1605, probably by Hendrick de Keyser, and is now part of Amsterdam University. The 17th-century meeting room of the VOC lords has been restored.
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An exciting opportunity to see what lies behind the gabled façades and medieval doorways of some of the city’s most historic buildings, which are open to the public for free over this weekend.
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An orange-flavoured liqueur knocked back onKoninginnedag (30 April).
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A favourite among Amsterdam’s gay hotels, the Orfeo is centrally located near bustling Leidseplein. It has friendly, helpful owners, a convivial bar and free Finnish sauna.
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Hotel price categories
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
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