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.

Rose’s Cantina

This Mexican cantina has Tex-Mex down to a tee – the food is varied and delicious, and the margaritas are served in pitchers!
Rowing

Popular among the numerous competitions is the Head of the Amstel River race.
Running

The Amsterdam Marathon began in 1976 and is now an annual event.
Saarein II

Once an infamous women-only bar, now men are welcome. Quiet during the week, rowdy at weekends. Pool table, good bar food.
Sander

A gay-friendly hotel situated behind the Concertgebouw in the Museum Quarter. Though plain, most of the 20 rooms are spacious, some with features such as fireplaces and window seats. The breakfast room opens on to a pretty garden.
SAS Radisson Krakow

A cut above the rest with superb customer service and a great location
Sauna Deco

A flashback to 20's Paris in the heart of Amsterdam.

The interior of Sauna Deco is made from the brass and stained glass art deco fittings of Paris's original 'Au Bon Marche' department store.

Like being transported back to the twenties (naked!), this is something truly unique.

Upon entering you are given a towel and a locker key, then left to roam. There are various steam and spa rooms as well as warm and cold plunge pools, foot baths and, my favourite, the outdoor sitting areas.

Take your time, lie on the loungers, doze, sit outside with your skin steaming. Read, enjoy some fruit salad and tea from the bar or maybe go for a relaxing treatment. This is not an experience to be rushed.

My top tip is to go there between 12noon and 3pm for the early discounted price of 16euros. Full day spa packages are also available.

Enjoy.
Scheepvaarthuis

Designed as shipping company offices by van der Mey, de Klerk and Kramer, this fanciful building (1916) is smothered in nautical whimsy – mariners, monsters, and mermaids.
Schreierstoren

The Schreierstoren (Tower of Tears) is one of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings – a surviving fragment of the medieval city wall.
Seven Bridges

A tired bridge-spotter can count seven from this charming hotel without moving. Immaculately decorated, it has wooden floors, Persian carpets and furniture that would grace any auctionhouse catalogue. There are no public rooms, so you can have breakfast in bed without a twinge of guilt.

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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