Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands is built around a concentric network of canals spanned by over 1000 bridges.One of the most attractive ways of viewing the city is on a canal tour. Many of the houses date back to The Netherlands' golden age in the 17th century. These narrow-fronted merchants' houses are characterised by the traditionally Dutch ornamented gables. The oldest part of the city is Nieuwmarkt, located near the first canals - Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht - built to protect the city against invasion.
Amsterdam is famous for its liberalism regards soft drugs and its thriving sex industry. The city has also long been a centre of diamond cutting and it is still possible to see diamond cutters at work. Boasting 53 museums, 61 art galleries, 12 concert halls and 20 theatres, Amsterdam also has a booming cultural life.
Things to See & Do
* Canal cruises
* Rijksmuseum
* The Van Gogh Museum
* Anne Frank House
* Royal Palace