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.

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The Pancake Bakery

Located in an old warehouse, about 2 mins from the Anne Frank Museum, this place is definitely well worth a visit. They make omelettes and pancakes - both savoury and sweet - and have over 75 different varieties to choose from. They have menus in English, and the waitress that served us spoke perfect English - really helpful if your Dutch isn't up to decoding all the speciality ingredients listed in their menus! The prices are very reasonable as well - check out their website (available in English) for a pdf menu and location map.
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.
The Skinny bridge

As an alternative to a lot of the usual activity that takes places in Amsterdam we took an evening canal boat cruise. Part of it involves sailing under the ‘skinny bridge’ (across the river Amstel and opposite of the Carré theatre). At the time we were told that if you kiss whilst under the bridge that person will be your true love and you will stay together forever, Well, that was 5 ½ years ago and we are now coming up to our 6 month wedding anniversary!
Tulip Inn Amsterdam Art

This gorgeous hotel is set just outside the historical centre in Amsterdam and I thought it was lovely. The emphasis of the hotel is on modern-type art, including lots of street art and 'funky' coloured statues/models.

It's a really comfortable place to stay with all the rooms being clean and well maintained for the duration of your holiday. Food in the Tulip Inn is authentic and delicious. Everything is well priced, from the room rates to the food and staff are friendly and chatty.
TunFun

Amazing underground, indoor play area for children up to 12 years old. €7 Euros entry for children and Adults are free but only allowed in with a child. Cafe and seating area for the grown upw while they wait.

Giant slides, ball pits, infalables and ten pin bowling are just a few of the things the kids can do
Van Gogh Museum

In addition to work by Van Gogh, the museum has a rich and varied collection of other 19th-century art. The artists represented include Impressionists, Post-Impressionists and others: Van Gogh’s friends and contemporaries, those who inspired him, and those who drew inspiration from him.
Vondelpark

There are free open air concerts in Vondelpark during the Summer months. Apart from that, the park is very clean, very relaxing, and entry is free.
Vondelpark

A 45 hectare park in the heart of Amsterdam which is located near to the Museumplein and the Leideseplein.
The place in the city to run, jog, walk, skate, bike-ride, etc. There is an open-air theater with performances and concerts in June, July and August - and admittance is free of charge. Children's performances are on Wednesdays. Also for the children , there are playgrounds.
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".
Winterland in Maastricht

Amazing Christmas Market in village of Maastricht. 2.5 hrs by train

http://www.winterland.nl