DK Travel : Amsterdam : Central Canal Ring

Amsterdam’s three great canals, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, are at their most impressive in this central section of the Grachtengordel, which culminates in the stretch known as the Golden Bend, where the wealthiest Amsterdammers built stately houses in the 1660s. Designed and decorated by the best architects of the day, such as Philips Vingboons, the mansions built here were often twice the width of standard canal houses. Nowadays, many of these buildings are occupied by institutions. In contrast, the intimate cross-streets that run between the three canals, known as De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) enticingly display the city’s talent for creative retail. Another magnet for shoppers is Metz & Co, which provides a bird’s-eye view of the whole area from its top-floor café. Cutting through this elegant district is the main thoroughfare, Leidsestraat, which culminates in the brash and lively entertainment hub, Leidseplein. Architectural highlights include the Paleis van Justitie and the American Hotel.

For more on canal tours See Unexpected Sights on a Canal Tour and Canal Tours

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.
Dutch Resistance Museum

The Dutch Resistance Museum tells the story of the Dutch people in Word War II
houseboat B033 on the Houseboat Hotel website

A beautiful moored houseboat perfect for a romantic break for two and that home from home feeling. Wonderful views at night of the oldest twinkly bridge in Amsterdam this boat oozes rustic charm, it has stained glass windows, a cozy place to sit and eat and watch the world cycle by, its warm and cozy and has adequate facilties for showering and cooking also. We loved eating our evening meal at the table and watching the tourist boats float by waving as they thought we were living there! The boat is very central a short distance to major attractions and is situated opposite the Opera House and minutes from the Waterlooplein flea market and the Dam Square . It also feels safe and quiet at night, and there is a local supermarket Albert Hein local shops for your groceries I loved this charming boat would certainly go back again!
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.
Siberië

Nice little coffee shop on Brouwersgracht, relaxed atmosphere good staff, nice treats. Also has local artist work hanging. Coming up on October 12th, "The Inauguration of Conscious States " The first exposition of artist A.Valentine. Talented artist, definitely worth a look! They also have a live STREAMING WEBCAM online, so you can even check out the place before you go! heres the cam-http://www.coffeeshopsiberie.nl/eng/siberiecam.html

check them out!
The Rookies Bar/Cafe

Very friendly little cafe just off Leidesplein, awesome hot chocolate, pool tables, music and friendly staff on hand to help you out with any herb related questions. Perfect for your first cafe visit in Amsterdam......or your 5th! I always make sure I pop in when in Amsterdam.
Walking along the canals for hours

My favourite Amsterdam moment was walking along the canals for hours, with no sense of time or distance or needing to be anywhere else. The Norwegian band Kings of Convenience sum it up perfectly: "these canals it seems / they all move in circles / places look the same / but we're the only difference".
Wynand Fockink

This bar has been around since 1679. The front part is a tasting tavern. The bar is a small, there is a “to go” window onto the alley and many patrons hang out there. In the back, the bar distills its own liqueurs. You can see the equipment if you peer through some of the windows or tours are also available.

They have an extensive selection of flavors, plus a vast menu of combinations. Don't look at the menu. Well, you can look at the menu, but it's completely overwhelming. Instead, tell the bartender what flavor or feel you are in the mood for, and he'll give you tastings until you find something that you like. Or get advice from the other patrons (they'll be more than willing to share their favorites). Then the bartender will pour you a shot.

DO NOT pick up your drink!

It will be filled to the rim, maybe even overflowing. Lower your mouth to the drink and slurp off the top. Then you can lift the glass and leisurely sip the rest.