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.

Pulpo

Mainly Mediterranean dishes with the occasional Asian detour.
Puppet Shows

There has been a puppet theatre on Dam Square for over a hundred years. Puppet Theatre Misha Kluft performs every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from May to October.
Quentin

A prime example of an Amsterdam hotel that, although not exclusively gay, extends a warm welcome to its many gay guests. Women in particular make this friendly, well-kept little hotel near Leidseplein their base, as do visiting musicians – Paradiso and Melkweg are nearby.
Quentin Engeland

A row of seven unusual houses in this hotel-packed street represent the architectural styles of seven different nations. The Engeland, a cosy, gayfriendly establishment, occupies the English “cottage” amongst them, plus the Netherlands house next door.
Radisson SAS

Situated around a dramatic atrium, this well-run hotel takes up most of the street and comprises several old houses, a paper factory and an 18th-century vicarage, part of which has become a lovely candlelit bar. The hotel’s health and conference centres are across the road, connected by a tunnel.
Rakang

Totally authentic Thai; one of the best of its kind in the city. Those in the know load up at their cheaper, equally delicious takeaway next door.
Ravensbrück Memorial

Dedicated to the women of Ravensbrück, one of the most disturbing of the city’s Holocaust memorials (1975) incorporates a sinister soundtrack and eerily flashing lights.
Razzmatazz

A must for a designer collection ranging from Vivienne Westwood to Dexter Wong – plus accessories, and information on clubs and parties.
Red Light District

The world’s oldest profession aptly occupies Amsterdam’s oldest quarter, de Walletjes (“the little walls”), bordered by Zeedijk, Kloveniersburgwal, Damstraat and Warmoesstraat. Today, the district is one of the city’s greatest tourist attractions, with scantily clad prostitutes, pouting or indifferent, sitting in windows or lolling in doorways along Oudezijds Voorburgwal and the lanes off it. At night these lanes become the haunts of junkies and pickpockets, and are best avoided.
Reguliersgracht and Herengracht

Put Thorbeckeplein behind you and count 15 bridges from this junction – a spectacular sight after dark.

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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
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