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.

Pompadour

You can pile on the calories just staring at the window-display of this chique chocolaterie. Sadly, all you’ll burn here is a hole in your wallet. Try the famous homemade chocolates or exquisite tarts.
Pontifex

This tiny waxworks gives Madame Tussauds a run for their money, with a colourful range of candles of every type imaginable. Adjoining are the premises of the rather spooky doll doctor, Kramer.
Portugees-Israëlitische Synagoge

Inspired by the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem, Elias Bouman’s bulky red-brick synagogue is still the core of the small Sephardic community for whom it was built in 1675. The massive wooden barrel-vaulted ceiling is lit by more than 1,000 candles(see Portugees-Israëlitische Synagoge).
Portugees-Israëlitische Synagoge

The Sephardic Jews, who settled in Amsterdam from the late 16th century, celebrated their new lives in a tolerant society a century later by commissioning Elias Bouman to build this imposing synagogue. It follows a traditional design with the Hechal (Holy Ark), facing Jerusalem, opposite the tebah, from where the cantor leads the service (see Jewish Sights).
Prinsengracht

At 3 km (2 miles), the outermost canal of the Grachtengordel (see Canals and Waterways) is quite tiring on foot, but makes a very pleasant, fairly car-free cycle ride, with plenty of cafés at which to rest along the way.
Prinsenhof

This small, quiet B&B in an attractive canal house is squeaky clean, friendly and modestly priced. Small wonder, then that its 10 pretty bedrooms (some with shared facilities) are hard to come by.
Puccini Bombini

Possibly the most delicious chocolates in the world. Flavours range from the finest interpretations of classics to the odd-sounding but out of this world Lemongrass. Your wallet will be lighter but your taste buds in heaven.
Puccini Bomboni

A chocoholic’s paradise! Mouthwatering chocolates often with surprising fillings, such as nutmeg, lemongrass or pepper. Real junkies can also feast on big chunks of chocolate bars.
Puccini Bomboni

When I was in Belgium, a local told me the best chocolate he'd ever had was actually in Amsterdam, at Puccini. It took me ages to find the place - I didn't have my Amsterdam DK guide yet! - but when I did, it was well worth the search. The quality of the chocolate is outstanding, and the selection is incredibly varied. The shop was lovely and the service was very patient, considering how long I spent trying to decide on my selections. The Puccini truffles I tried were all fantastic, and the blocks of dark chocolate studded with dried cherries were perfect travel food, but the best thing I had there was a tamarind truffle - outstanding. This shop is well worth a visit.
Pulitzer

Combining 21stcentury chic with beams and bare bricks, the Pulitzer is an innovative conversion of 24 canal houses, celebrated for its art exhibitions, courtyard garden and outstanding cellar.

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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