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.

Ambassade

Overlooking the Herengracht, the Ambassade is truly comfortable and, not surprisingly, often full. Rambling through ten handsome merchant’s houses, it blends good antiques with excellent modern service. Popular with writers, the new library showcases signed copies of their work.
American Football

If you can’t get tickets to watch Ajax, the Amsterdam Admirals also play at the Arena.
American Hotel

Leidseplein’s most famous landmark is this one-off Dutch interpretation of Art Nouveau by Willem Kromhout (1902), which foretold the Amsterdam School of architecture. Only the exterior is of interest: the interior is as bland as any other chain hotel (in this case, Crowne Plaza). The exception is the hotel’s famous Café Americain, with its stainedglass windows and glass parasol lampshades. The literati who once inhabited it may have disappeared, but it’s a welcome haven from the rigours of Leidseplein.
American Hotel

Just off Leidseplein and right next to a canal and the tram system, this is a luxurious hotel with turret rooms inside each suite and champagne breakfasts - perfect for romantic getaways.
Amistad

Exclusively gay, this old hotel has been vamped up by its new, young owners. The rooms are stylish, with red being the predominant colour, and some rooms have shared facilities. Breakfast is served until 1pm. It is close to the clubs and saunas.
Amstel Botel

The idea of staying on a boat has a certain charm, but the downside of the Amstel Botel is that the rooms (or cabins if you prefer) on this floating hotel are small, and even the view over the water is dull. The upside is getting three-star accommodation at a very reasonable price. Due to building work on Ooster- dokskade the Botel will be moored at Van Riems- dijkweg until 2008/2009.
Amstel Inter-Continental

Rub shoulders with monarchs and movie stars in Amsterdam’s grandest hotel, which just oozes opulence, from the spectacular hall to the pampering bedrooms. Enjoy the state-of-the-art gym, private motor launch and two Michelinstarred restaurant – but don’t even think about the bill.
Amstel River

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a walk along the banks of the Amstel, the river whose mouth spawned a fishing settlement in the 12th century (see c. 1125: First Settlers). In 1222 the river was dammed, and Amsterdam turned from fishing to trade – the beginning of its expansion. Commercial barges still ply the river, passing Blauwbrug (Blue Bridge), inspired by thebelle époque Pont Alexandre III in Paris, the much-loved Magere Brug, and the Amstelsluizen (sluice gates), which help to pump millions of gallons of fresh water into the canals to keep them from stagnating.
Amstelpark

This welcome green space to the south of the city has a rose garden, a maze and an art gallery for adults, as well as pony rides, farm animals and a miniature steam train for children. Best of all, at the southernmost tip of the park, is the well-preserved De Rieker windmill. Built in 1636, it was a favourite of Rembrandt, whose statue stands nearby. Now a private home.
Amstelveld

From this peaceful square at the junction of Reguliersgracht and Prinsengracht, there are pretty stretches of the canal in both directions.

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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