Amsterdam/Binnenstad

Most visitors arrive in Amsterdam at the Centraal Station, and then walk south over the Damrak and Rokin. In medieval times, both roads actually were the final stretch of the Amstel River that used to cut Amsterdam in half. East of the Damrak-Rokin-axis was the Oudezijde ("Old Side") of Amsterdam, the oldest part of the city dating from the 13th century. West of the Damrak-Rokin-axis was the Nieuwezijde ("New Side"), which was constructed later, but still dates from the late Middle Ages. Damrak used to be a busy harbour where loads of ships docked, bringing valuable spices with them from the Dutch East Indies. Nowadays, together with Rokin, it's the glue that holds both sides of the city together, and the endless line of tacky souvenir shops won't give a hint about the street's history as a trading quarter.
The division between the Oudezijde and the Nieuwezijde never completely faded, and both have a lot to offer for visitors. The Oudezijde is lead by the Warmoesstraat, the oldest street of Amsterdam. It started out as a residential street for the wealthy, but they moved to the Canal District in the 17th century and commerce has been its driving force since. The Red Light District is in the same area, at the Oudezijds Achterburgwal, and dates back to the 14th century. Lustful sailors have been replaced by hordes of curious tourists, however. Adjacent to it is the Nieuwmarkt, a large square with plenty of cafes which is also the hub of a Chinese neighborhood (though it's smaller than Chinatowns in other cities). The Zeedijk particularly offers some great Asian restaurants and snack joints. The Nieuwezijde is known for Dam Square, with the Nieuwe Kerk ("New Church") and the pompous Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis), that was once the city hall but turned into a palace by Napoleon's brother (and still a touchy subject among the city's residents). Around it are the city's prime shopping areas with the Kalverstraat, Nieuwendijk and the bars at the Spui.
The area east of the Nieuwmarkt, now known as the Nieuwmarktbuurt, was built outside of the city's medieval walls. Part of it is known as the Jodenbuurt ("Jewish neighborhood"). As the Netherlands had a relatively high level of religious freedom from the 16th century onwards, many Jewish communities had migrated to this area. In the 1920s this was one of the busiest areas of town with large open-air markets and smoky factories. This changed in World War II, when Nazi Germany occupied the Netherlands and those of Jewish heritage were deported to concentration camps. The area went into decay and even today isn't quite as interesting as one might hope. It turned into a big traffic junction, but the Jewish Historical Museum (Joods Historisch Museum) keeps the history of the neighborhood alive.
Next to the more official cultural venues, the Binnenstad offers a lot of forgettable (and overpriced) tourist traps. Damrak has the Sex Museum and one of two torture museums, and in the Red Light District you can find the Hash, Marihuana and Hemp Museum.

By tram

The tram is the best way to get around the area. Amsterdam Centraal railway station at the north of the Binnenstad is the centre of Amsterdam's public transport network and most tram lines start, finish or pass through it. Tram lines 4, 14 and 24 start at Centraal Station and then pass Dam Square, Rokin and Muntplein, making these lines the most convenient for getting around. The Oudezijde and the Nieuwmarktbuurt do not have any tram lines, so you'll have to walk there from stops along these lines. The Nieuwezijde is covered by the central tram lines as well, but in addition, tram lines 2, 11, 12, 13 and 17 from Centraal Station cover the western side of the district along Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal.
If you're coming from the Museum Quarter or Leidseplein, take tram lines 2, 11 or 12 towards Centraal Station. Tram 24 comes from the Olympic Stadium, De Pijp (Albert Cuyp Market, Heinekenplein) and the southern Canal District and also ends at Centraal Station. From the western Canal District, Jordaan and Oud-West, take tram 13 or 17 towards Centraal Station.
From Rembrandtplein, get on tram 4 or 14 towards Centraal Station if you want to go to the Oudezijde or Nieuwezijde (e.g. Dam Square). If you want to go to Waterlooplein or the Jodenbuurt, you need to take line 14, but in the opposite direction. Get out at the stop Waterlooplein for the flea market or at Mr Visserplein for the Jodenbuurt, the Esnoga and the Rembrandt House. Plantage and the Oosterpark are served by tram 14, while IJburg and the Western Docklands are served by tram 26.

By metro

The metro serves the central axis and the eastern end of the Binnenstad and connect it with the outer boroughs of Amsterdam. The metro lines serve only few notable tourist attractions, but can be used as a fast way to get to or from the outer railway stations. All lines serve Centraal Station, three of them also stop at railway station Amsterdam Amstel. Lines M51 and M52 cover the Zuidas and stop at railway station Amsterdam Zuid, while line M54 covers Zuidoost and stops at railway station Amsterdam Bijlmer-ArenA.
Four metro stops are located in the district: Centraal Station, Nieuwmarkt, Waterlooplein and Rokin. If you don't feel like walking, you can get on any train from the lines M51, M53 or M54 at Centraal Station and get out at the first stop for the Nieuwmarkt and the Oudezijde, including Chinatown and the Red Light District. Line M52 connects Centraal Station and Rokin with the Canal District, De Pijp and the Zuidas.

Amsterdam is a living museum with an architectural landscape that has changed little since the 17th century. Many vistas in Rembrandt's paintings, such as at the Geldersekade, are still largely similar as of this day. As such, Amsterdam is best experienced by getting lost in the city's old tiny corridors. Those rushing through busy shopping streets like Damrak and Kalverstraat don't do the city justice and miss the city's historic air.

Landmarks

• Amsterdam Centraal railway station

  address: Stationsplein
  This beautiful building is an attraction in itself, so if you did not arrive in Amsterdam by train, it is well worth making a special trip to look at the station's facade. The station was built between 1881 and 1889 on three artificial islands. It was designed by Pierre Cuypers who also designed the Rijksmuseum in a similar neo-late-Gothic/Renaissance style. At the time, the project was highly controversial as the new station would effectively cut off the city from the IJ waterfront. Politicians in The Hague pushed it through anyway, and now it is widely regarded as the most beautiful station in the country.

• Beurs van BerlageTake a guided tour and check out the view from the top of the old stock exchange tower. It was built in 1903 (by Hendrik Petrus Berlage) and is considered the beginning of modern Dutch architecture. Costs €3.50, located on Beursplein near Dam Square.

• Royal Palace

  phone: +31 20 620-4060
  address: Dam
  The Royal Palace is one of the three official palaces of the Netherlands. It is at the disposal of King Willem-Alexander by the Act of Parliament. It was built in 1651 as the city hall of Amsterdam, in a period known as the Dutch Golden Age. Many school children learn that because of the swampy soil, it was built on no less than 13,569 wooden poles. In 1795, the French Empire of Napoleon Bonaparte invaded the Netherlands, and his brother Louis Napoleon became the first King of Holland in 1806. He acquired the city hall in that year and turned it into a royal palace. It was restored to the original owners when Prince William VI returned to the Netherlands in 1812, but when he was crowned as King William I, he decided that Amsterdam should be the official capital and acquired the city hall once again as a royal palace. This is still a delicate subject among the locals, some of whom would like to see the palace returned to Amsterdam. It was completely renovated in 2009. It is mainly used for diplomatic receptions and to welcome visiting heads of state, not as a royal residence.

• Nationaal Monument

  phone: +31 20 251-4900
  address: Dam Square
  A large spire that functions as a memorial for the victims of World War II. It was designed by architect J.J.P. Oud and revealed at 4 May 1956. Every 4 May, at the Remembrance of the Dead, a ceremony is held here to commemorate all civilians and members of the Dutch armed forces that died in World War II and later armed conflicts.

Churches and synagogues

• BegijnhofThe Begijnhof is a late medieval enclosed courtyard with the houses of beguines (Roman Catholic women living in a semi-religious community). It is a very picturesque group of historic buildings, mostly private dwellings. House number 34 is the oldest home in Amsterdam. The courtyard also has a Reformed Church and a hidden Catholic chapel. Surprisingly, it feels like a serene oasis as it is surrounded by the chaotic Kalverstraat and Spui. Entry to the courtyard and surrounding gardens is free, but be careful not to disturb the local community still living here.

• Esnoga

  phone: +31 20 624-5351
  address: Mr. Visserplein 3
  The most prominent synagogue of the city centre, the Esnoga dates back from 1675 and is built in an austere Classicist style. In 1492, Spain expelled its Jewish population as part of the Inquisition, and many fled to Portugal. One hundred years later, their descendants migrated to Amsterdam for its religious freedom. This happened at a time when the Dutch provinces were fighting for independence against Spain. As to avoid being related to the enemy, these Jewish refugees originally from Spain began to refer to themselves as "Portuguese Jews". In the early 16th century, the three Jewish communities that existed at the time merged to form the Portuguese Jewish Community of Amsterdam, which still exists today. They were joined by Ashkenazi Jews that arrived from Central and Eastern Europe in the 17th century, together forming the largest Jewish community in Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Shabbat services are held regularly.

• Nieuwe Kerk

  phone: +31 20 638-6909
  address: Dam
  Used for royal coronations, most recently the crowning of King Willem-Alexander in 2013, and royal weddings, most recently the wedding of crown prince Willem-Alexander to princess Máxima in 2002. Today, the church is no longer used for services but is now a popular exhibition space. With a steep entry price of €10 this is one of the most expensive and least rewarding visitor attractions in the country.

• Oude Kerk

  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal
  The oldest of the five main churches in the historic centre, and probably the oldest building in Amsterdam. It is right in the heart of the Red Light District. You can climb the tower from April to September on Saturday and Sunday, every half-hour. Also open in the winter by group appointment (maximum 10 people) cost €70 per hour. E-mail for more information.

• Zuiderkerk

  address: Zuiderkerkhof 72
  Built in 1603-1611. Located on Zuiderkerkhof ("Southern Graveyard"). Now an information centre on housing and planning. You can visit the tower from April to September Monday to Saturday (with guide only) every half-hour, cost €6. Also open in the winter by group appointment (maximum 15 people) cost €70 per hr. E-mail for more information.

Museums

• Allard Pierson Museum

  phone: +31 20 525-2556
  address: Oude Turfmarkt 127
  The Allard Pierson Museum is the archaeological museum of the University of Amsterdam . The ancient civilizations of Egypt, Cyprus, the Greek World, Etruria and the Roman Empire are revived in this museum. Art-objects and utensils, dating from 4000 B.C. till 500 A.D. give a good impression of everyday-life, mythology and religion in Antiquity.

• Amsterdam Museum

  phone: +31 20 523-1822
  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 357 or Kalverstraat 92
  A museum about the history of Amsterdam.

• Civic Guards Gallery

  phone: +31 20 523-1822
  address: Kalverstraat 92
  Just inside the arched gateway to the Amsterdam Museum is a hidden passageway with fifteen enormous 17th-century paintings; entrance is free to the public during museum hours. The collection features massive and meticulously realistic portraits of wealthy citizens from the Dutch Golden Age, the same class of subjects Rembrandt depicted in the most famous of Civic Guard paintings, the "Night Watch".

• Jewish Historical Museum

  phone: +31 20 531-0310
  address: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1
  Jewish Historical Museum. History of the Jewish people, culture and religion.

• Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

  phone: +31 20 624-6604
  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40
  One of the oldest museums in Amsterdam, this is a Catholic church stuffed into the upper stories of a house built in 1663, when Catholics were persecuted and had to disguise their churches. It's amazing to see how they fit worshippers, an organ, and an altar into such a narrow place.

• Oranje Voetbal Museum

  phone: +31 20 589-8989
  address: Kalverstraat 236
  The legacy of Dutch football started in the 1970s, when Total Football, a revolutionary Dutch style of football, shook the world. The Netherlands is the best football nation that never won the World Cup: it lost the final three times, a national trauma. It did win the European Cup in 1988 lead by star player Marco van Basten. This museum has four floors dedicated to "Oranje", and a small cinema that shows a 20-minute film with historic football moments. Especially recommended for Germans.

• Rembrandt House

  phone: +31 20 520-0400
  address: Jodenbreestraat 4
  This is where the artist Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn and his wife, Saskia, lived between 1639 and 1658. The house is a reconstruction of the painter’s life at that time and provides interesting insight. You will be able to see 260 of his 290 etchings, find out about how they were created, see where he worked and explore the nooks and crannies of this fascinating building.

As most attractions are clearly aimed at tourists, one of the best things to do is to wander. Get lost in the little side-streets, have a chat with the locals and just appreciate the beautiful architecture all around you. The Oudezijde lends itself especially well for exploring on foot. Of course, you can also rent a bicycle and get around the Dutch way.
Many visitors take a canal tour through the city centre. On these tours, a narrator will overload you with fun-facts as you're cruising along the city's beautiful buildings. A canal cruise costs around €15 for one hour, and many operators can be found along Damrak. However, there's no reason to actually do this—walking is free, more fun and more authentic.

• Amsterdam Music Theatre

  phone: +31 20 551-8117
  address: Waterlooplein 22
  Opera, dance, ballet and other performances. Holds a free lunch concert on Tuesdays.

Attractions

• NEMO

  phone: +31 20 531-3233
  address: Oosterdok 2
  Above a tunnel overseeing the IJ, NEMO is the largest science museum in the Netherlands. It's a showcase of how scientific phenomena influence daily life. Different sections of the museum deal with technology and engineering, ICT, and bio- and behavioral sciences. This is a place to take kids and is best for those ages 11 and below—teenagers will probably get bored. And it is usually definitely full of children on weekends. During summer it has a panorama roof terrace on its roof with deckchairs with free entry.

• Gassan Diamonds

  phone: +31 20 622-5333
  address: Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173-175
  A guided tour is given that's all about the diamond production process and the history of diamond trade in Amsterdam. Diamonds have been traded in Amsterdam for longer than 425 years, and the city used to be known as the "City of Diamonds". Tours are given in 27 languages. Of course you can also buy Gassan diamonds here, but you don't have to.

• Hash, Marihuana and Hemp Museum

  phone: +31 20 624-8926
  address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 148
  Opened for over twenty years, the Hash Museum is dedicated to debunking the lies and demonization about one of our most useful plants, the hemp plant. Although small, busy and seriously overpriced, it is a well-done museum where people go to get informed.

• Sexmuseum

  phone: +31 20 622-8376
  address: Damrak 18
  The largest and most prestigious museum for sex art and sex history in the Netherlands. It shows a lot of sex oddities. Only ages 16 and up are allowed entry.

• Madame Tussauds

  phone: +31 20 522-1010
  address: Dam 20
  The well-known franchise of wax museums also has a branch in Amsterdam. It's a major tourist attraction so expect a steep entry fee and long queues. Unique to this branch are waxworks of famous Dutch people including Willem-Alexander, Beatrix, Tiësto, Rafael van der Vaart, Doutzen Kroes, Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt.

• Amsterdam Dungeon

  phone: +31 20 530-8500
  address: Rokin 78
  The Amsterdam Dungeon is a horror tour through several dark chambers with live actors. It ends with a roller coaster raging through a real 13th century church.

• Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments

  phone: +31 20 528-6035
  address: Damrak 33
  The latest gimmicky tourist attraction near the Centraal Station, it's a small museum about medieval torture and torture devices. In the Middle Ages, torture was a widely known punishment for almost all crimes committed, ranging from rape to murder, and above all for heresy. The type of punishment depended on the victim's crime and social status. The Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments displays over 100 devices used to torture people. Before its make-over, it used to be the Vodka Museum; the vodka shop is still open in the basement with free entry.

• Torture Museum

  phone: +31 20 320-6642
  address: Singel 449
  You'd think one museum about torture would be enough, but no, not in Amsterdam. However, this was the first torture museum in the city centre, and is at least somewhat more authentic than the copycat. The museum depicts the history of different torturous techniques used over the centuries. The lighting is bad, the corridors are small and the price an absolute rip-off. You can walk through it in 15-30 minutes.

Markets

• SpuiEvery Friday and Sunday a market is held on the Spui. Friday has books on sale, while Sundays are all about art and antiques.

• WaterloopleinmarktA well-known but fairly overrated market near the city hall. Partly flea market, partly alternative and second hand clothing and accessories. More oriented towards tourists than to locals.

Book stores

• The American Book Center

  phone: +31 20 625-5537
  address: Spui 12
  Excellent shop for literature and books in the English language, particularly on American culture.

• Athenaeum Boekhandel

  phone: +31 20 514-1460
  address: Spui 14-16
  One of the most renowned book stores of Amsterdam because of its wide array of fiction and more academic titles. It is very popular among local students; however, their study books are also interesting reading material for non-graduates. They have a particular large selection of books in the humanities, including history, media, language, culture and international relations.

• The Book Exchange

  phone: +31 20 626-6266
  address: Kloveniersburgwal 58
  A second-hand bookstore specialising in English books, and has a large selection, with an especially good selection of travel writing, detectives, and SF/fantasy.

• Waterstones

  address: Kalverstraat 152
  Another good tip for English literature. Prices on the high side, but there's a good selection of fiction and children's books. They also have magazines, newspapers and board games.

The Binnenstad has a wide variety of restaurants, most of them in the cheaper or mid-range category. Asian restaurants are congregated in the Zeedijk, where many cheaper-end Chinese, Indonesian and Thai restaurants line up. Middle Eastern fast-food can be found in the Damstraat, just like a plethora of Argentinian, Chinese and Italian joints. If you have a higher budget, or want quality, it's better to go next-door to the Canal District.

Ice cream and bakeries

In the Nieuwendijk you can find the best ice cream of Amsterdam, and a couple of bakeries.

• Gebr. Niemeijer

  phone: +31 20 707-6752
  address: Nieuwendijk 35
  French-style bakery with pastries, croissants, breads, sandwiches all baked fresh on premises. Open for breakfast and lunch, eat-in or takeaway. Bring the kids and eat in the small playroom upstairs.

• Van der Linde

  phone: +31 20 624-8213
  address: Nieuwendijk 183
  Its officially a bakery, but they don't sell bread, They do sell Amsterdam's most famous whipped ice cream, lovely almond cookies and cakes. The texture is really creamy and soft, it melts easily and they put it in a cone with a soup spoon.

• Zomerijs/Winterkost

  address: Nieuwendijk 4
  Zomerijs/Winterkost means "summer ice cream and winter food". They have all the flavors you can think of and can even make a flavor on demand, but you have to tell the owner one or two days in advance. All the ice cream is homemade with natural ingredients for a reasonable price. In the winter typical Dutch winter food is served, like mashed potatoes with cabbage and smoked sausage.

Budget

• Bird

  phone: +31 20 620-1442
  address: Zeedijk 72
  Very crowded little snack bar with Thai food. Not to be confused with the restaurant of the same owner, on the other side of the street. Try the chicken in oyster sauce.

• New King

  phone: +31 20 625-2180
  address: Zeedijk 115
  Slowly becoming an institution, this hugely popular Mandarin Chinese restaurant seems to have found a perfect balance between food, price and ambiance. The food is authentically Chinese, delicious, fresh and quickly served, and all of that for a bargain. Service is fast and rushed, but it doesn't feel like a snack bar. It has a stylish interior, and it's still one of those places you could bring a date to. The biggest problem is that everyone seems to know this place, so it's somewhat crowded and noisy, and you'll probably have to wait outside for a seat to become available. When you get in, order the oysters. They're a hit.

• OCHA

  phone: +31 20 625-9958
  address: Binnen Bantammerstraat 1
  This used to be just the little "Thai snackbar around the corner", but since a raving review in the local newspaper Het Parool, big crowds are waiting in line to get seated during dinnertime. The scenery is simple and the restaurant is very small and cramped. However, the hype is all about the food, which is absolutely mouth-watering. They have the usual Thai fare, but the dish to go for is the massaman curry, their specialty.

• Pasta Pasta

  phone: +31 20 331-1199
  address: Warmoesstraat 49
  Serves delicious pastas, made just as you want them. Choose a sauce, topping and pasta for a tasty, but well-priced meal.

• Rapper

  address: 30 Oudebrugsteeg
  Offers delicious sandwiches in freshly baked wraps and salads with a selection of home sauces. Prices vary from €3.95 for vegetarian wrap to €5.95 for Black-Angus Entrecôte wrap.

Mid-range

• Greetje

  phone: +31 20 779-7450
  address: Peperstraat 23-25
  Traditional Dutch, alongside French classics. Located in an historic building on a quiet side street near Central Station; it's off the beaten track so most of the diners are local. Open 6 days a week (not Mondays); a reservation is usually necessary.

• Kantjil & de Tijger

  address: Spuistraat 291
  Great spices and meat dishes, Indian/Indonesian food. Try the Nasi Goreng Rames.

• Rembrandt Corner

  address: Jodenbreestraat 2
  Around the corner of the "Rembrandt Huis" is a very nice "Eetcafe" with fresh food, WiFi hot spots and internet workplaces. Try the dish of the day or the mussels.

• Tony's NY City Bagels

  address: Jodenbreestraat 15
  Oversized cups of coffee, muffins and bagels. Muffins, brownies, giant cookies, cheesecake and bagels spread with various toppings are served at reasonable prices to a clientèle that is a mix of locals and tourists. American themed. There are 3 locations in the city.

Splurge

• &Samhoud Places

  phone: +31 20 260-2094
  address: Oosterdokskade 5
  This modern place was recently awarded with 2 Michelin stars, making it one of only 2 restaurants in Amsterdam to claim that recognition. Excellent service, high quality, modern cooking and (although perhaps subject to taste) a contemporary design interior. Wednesdays to Sundays it also serves lunch. Closed on Mondays. Call ahead.

• Amsterdam Jewel Cruises

  phone: +31 20 422 13 85
  address: Singel 235
  A la carte dining while cruising the canals.

Cafes

• Blue

  phone: +31 20 427-3901
  address: 3F, Kalvertoren, Singel 457
  The selling point of this cafe is its 360 degrees view over Amsterdam. Its interior is minimalist and stylish. A great place to have a Dutch cup of coffee while taking in the views. Unfortunately, it's only open at daytime as evenings are reserved for private events.

• De Jaren

  phone: +31 20 625-5771
  address: Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20-22
  A minimal art-deco interior next to Hotel d'Europe and a great view of where all the main canals come together (climb the stairs to the upper floor - the view is better and the crowds surprisingly thinner). Food is middling and on the pricy side, but it's a nice place to sip a cup of coffee or tea and read a newspaper.

• Filter

  phone: +31 20 261-1434
  address: Valkenburgerstraat 124
  Small eco-friendly coffeebar situated in the lobby of hotel Ecomama. Serves great coffee, breakfast and a small selection of sweet and savoury treats. Also organic tea, juice and the best grilled-cheese sandwiches. Have a relaxed morning on the sunny terrace or enjoy art by starting Dutch artists.

• Hannekes Boom

  phone: +31 20 419-9820
  address: Dijksgracht 4
  One of Amsterdam's hidden secrets, Hannekes Boom is a cosy, somewhat ramshackle, bar with a waterfront along the IJ. It's a great place to just hang out and have a beer. Not for clubbers, but for those looking for a relaxing underground atmosphere and live music. It is centrally located, but off the tourist path, so it has a local feel to it. Outdoor seating is available, but you have to order your drinks inside. If you want to eat, make a reservation in advance (though the food is nothing special).

Beer shops and tasting rooms

The Binnenstad has a lot of beer shops and tasting rooms, and even a brewery and a distillery.

• Brouwerij de Prael

  phone: +31 20 408-4469
  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 26-30
  A brewery, tasting room and beer shop all in one.

• Cracked Kettle

  address: Raamsteeg 3
  This beer, wine, and spirits shop carries independent, unique, and rare bottles. The staff are friendly, but the space is quite confined and obtaining bottles from the very top shelves requires assistance and a dust rag.

• De Bierkoning

  phone: +31 20 625-2336
  address: Paleisstraat 125
  Not a café, but a 'supermarket' specialized in beer. It has over a thousand beers, about half of it Dutch.

• In De Wildeman

  phone: +31 20 638-2348
  address: Kolksteeg 3
  A very well stocked beer café, or actually beer tasting room (bierproeflokaal) in the centre of the inner city. 17 beers (usually from various countries) and a cider on draught, and about 250 different bottled beers offered. There is no music played, which makes for a very friendly and talkative atmosphere, and it has a separate non-smoking room.

• Wynand Fockink

  phone: +31 20 639-2695
  address: Pijlsteeg 31
  Wynand Fockink is a distillery that started in 1679. They offer distillery tours, but you must reserve at least a week in advance as they fill up quickly. It is also a tasting room and a liquor store. They have numerous liquors, brandies, and jenevers and encourage you to try them all. It is traditional to stoop and sip the first drink and not spill. Great liquors, and a good time in the back alleys of Amsterdam.

Bars and pubs

Avoid all bars in and around the Dam Square area, they're among the most expensive in the country. A beer will easily set you back €5, and the atmosphere is usually not that good. Better pubbing areas are the Nieuwmarkt and the small streets (such as Handboogstraat) that border the Spui. Also, there are some excellent specialty bars and tasting rooms for beer fans out there.

• Belgique

  phone: +31 20 625-1974
  address: Gravenstraat 2
  One of the smallest bars in Amsterdam, there is seating for at most 15 people. Specialising in Belgian beers, extensive menu that includes some hard to find beers on tap. This place is smoke friendly so don't be surprised to see people rolling joints as they drink.

• Cuba

  address: Nieuwmarkt 3
  Great bar, really nice atmosphere, close to the Red Light District with a nice terrace in the summer. Selection of cheap cocktails and long island ice tea.

• Gollem

  phone: +31 6 5378-0273
  address: Raamsteeg 4
  A special beer café, serving many beers, especially from Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic and other countries.

• Katoen

  phone: +31 20 626-2635
  address: Oude Turfmarkt 153
  Close to the southern part of the Canal District. Alternative music and cosy atmosphere also in the evenings.

• Molly Malones Irish Pub

  phone: +31 20 624-1150
  address: Oudezijds Kolk 9
  Authentic Irish pub with food. Mix of expatriates, locals and tourists, friendly staff. Situated on a canal off the Zeedijk, close to Centraal Station and Warmoesstraat. Open every night, live music in the week-ends and large-screen television.

• Schuim

  phone: +31 20 638-9357
  address: Spuistraat 189
  The super comfy cafe is a great place to spend entire rainy days at a time. It heats up quite a bit at night. Pot smoking seems to be tolerated even though Schuim is definitely not a "coffeeshop".

• Speijk

  address: Nieuwesijdsvoorburgwal 260
  Awesome bar with lost of fun, artsy crazy locals. Various DJ play different styles. Open till late in the morning. Best place to meet laid-back and awesome Amsterdammers!!

• The Tara Irish Pub

  phone: +31 20 421-2654
  address: Rokin 85-89
  Quite a large Irish pub, but it feels homey and cosy. The crowd is fairly mixed with ex-pats, tourists and the occasional local student. Two pool tables are available. Bar food is served, but it's rather expensive and portions are small.

Nightclubs

• Bitterzoet

  address: Spuistraat 2
  This placed used to be alternative, but changed ownership and is now more hip hop and R&B oriented. Check their agenda to see what they're doing.

• Winston Kingdom

  address: Warmoesstraat 131
  Music venue and nightclub in the red light district.

Coffeeshops

The Binnenstad is the area with the highest concentration of, along with most other attractions in Amsterdam, marijuana coffeeshops.

• 420 Cafe

  phone: +31 20 623-4848
  address: Oudebrugsteeg 27
  Known for their low prices.

• Abraxas

  phone: +31 20 625-5763
  address: Jonge Roelensteeg 12-14

• Bluebird

  phone: +31 20 622-5232
  address: Sint Antoniesbreestraat 71
  One of the best selections of pot in Amsterdam.

• De Dampkring

  phone: +31 20 638-0705
  address: Handboogstraat 29
  Bought out Pink Floyd and renovated it. The shop was featured in a scene in Ocean's Twelve. Very decent hashish ("Rifman" products), rather high prices. Has won the Cannabis Cup numerous times.

• The Grasshopper

  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 59
  On the edge of the Red Light District, has an upper-floor bar.

• Green House

  phone: +31 20 627-1739
  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 191
  Usually pretty crowded but when warm or if you can get a seat definitely one of the nice coffeeshops near the Red Light District. Also has a bar next door.

• Hill Street Blues

  address: Warmoesstraat 52a
  Lively atmosphere but buy cannabis elsewhere.

• Homegrown Fantasy

  phone: +31 20 627-5683
  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 87a

• Kadinsky

  phone: +31 20 624-7023
  address: Rosmarijnsteeg 9
  It looks completely different from before, and now has three floors with a slick minimalist design.A great place to smoke your goods, and actually serves a good cup of coffee too.

Budget

• Bob's Youth Hostel

  phone: +31 20 623-0063
  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 92

• Bulldog

  phone: +31 20 620-3822
  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 220
  Friendly hostel in the heart of the Red Light District. A coffeeshop is conveniently located on the ground floor, this is also where you get your breakfast.

• De Oranje Tulp

  phone: +31 20 428-1618
  address: Damrak 32

• Durty Nellys Inn

  phone: +31 20 638-0125
  address: Warmoesstraat 117
  Dorms are clean and the beds comfortable. The Irish pub downstairs gives discounts to people staying in the hostel (€3.5 for a pint of Amstel, €6 for a burger and chips). Breakfast 09:00-11:00. No common area apart from the bar itself.

• Flying Pig Downtown

  phone: +31 20 420-6822
  address: Nieuwendijk 100
  The "Downtown" branch, as opposed to the "Uptown" in Zuid, has more of a party vibe. Both hostels are known for their laid-back atmosphere, bars and indoor smoking areas. Free extras, check out the facility page on their website.

• Hotel Beursstraat

  phone: +31 20 626-3701
  address: Beursstraat 9
  Simple and clean hotel, mostly visited by (young) people who are looking for an inexpensive accommodation.

• Hotel Brian

  phone: +31 20 624-4661
  address: Singel 69
  Very basic hotel, but breakfast and internet included.

• Hotel Tamara

  phone: +31 20 624-2484
  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 144
  Cheap "hotel" in a great location with basic clean rooms.

• Intersail Hostel Christina

  phone: +31 6 5478-5934
  address: Stijger 2, Oosterdok
  A floating hostel. Small cabins, bedlength is 1.90 m, but great staff and a nice spacious sun deck. Breakfast, sheets, towels are included in the price. Shared shower and toilet. Four person cabins are better to be used for only three adults. Don't take too much luggage in these cabins.

• Shelter City Christian Hostel

  phone: +31 20 624-4717
  address: Barndesteeg 21
  An alcohol and drug-free Christian youth hostel right at the Red Light District. Single-sex dormitories, including breakfast, bed linen.

• St Christophers

  phone: +31 20 623-1380
  address: Warmoesstraat 129
  Part hostel, part hotel. Each room is designed by local Dutch artists.

• Stayokay Stadsdoelen

  phone: +31 20 624-6832
  address: Kloveniersburgwal 97
  Stayokay operates a network of 27 hostels in the Netherlands, and is the Dutch affiliate of Hostelling International. A little smaller than Stayokay Vondelpark, this location does not take groups. Free WiFi and pay internet terminals. Free security lockers are provided in the hallways outside the dorms. One of the few hostels in town who can accept under 18 year olds traveling alone (granted you have a written permission from your parents and copies of their passports). Call them for more info.

• Travel Hotel Amsterdam

  phone: +31 20 626 65 32
  address: Beurstraat 23
  The hotel is a comfortable 2 star hotel situated only a 5 minute walk from Amsterdam’s Central Station.

• White Tulip Hostel

  phone: +31 20 625-5974
  address: Warmoesstraat 87
  Mostly dorms, but there are also a few private rooms available. Really a basic crash-pad, but quiet and relaxed due to their 'No large groups' policy.

• Hostel Meeting Point

  phone: +31 20 627 7499
  address: Warmoestraat 14
  Laid back hostel. Has his own, pretty cheap, hotel bar. smoking room (weed allowed) inside.guests of the hostel can use free internet computers. Only dorms.

Mid-range

• CityCenter Bed and Breakfast

  phone: +31 6 4516-0078
  address: Sint Jacobsstraat 21

• Delta Hotel

  phone: +31 20 620-2626
  address: Damrak 42-43
  Clean rooms and friendly staff.

• Hotel Citadel

  phone: +31 20 627-3882
  address: Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 100

• Hotel Continental

  phone: +31 20 622-3363
  address: Damrak 40-41
  Small rooms. Shared toilets.

• Hotel Y Boulevard

  phone: +31 20 623 04-30
  address: Prins Hendrikkade 145
  Includes a free breakfast. NOTE: Temporarily closed until the end of 2014.

• Rembrandtplein Hotel

  phone: +31 20 428-4244
  address: Groenbrugwal 27
  Friendly staff, bar open all night.

• RHo Hotel

  phone: +31 20 620-7371
  address: Nes 11-15
  Rooms are quiet. Parking available. Friendly staff.

• Rokin Hotel

  phone: +31 20 626-7456
  address: Rokin 73
  A 2-star renovated 17th century mansion. Very clean and good atmosphere, own parking.

• Jewel Canal Apartments

  phone: +31 6 244 575 93
  address: Singel 235
  Two canal side apartments in the center of Amsterdam, close to the Dam Square. Suitable for holiday and business stays. Free high speed internet.

Splurge

• Estheréa

  phone: +31 20 624-5146
  address: Singel 303-309
  A boutique hotel that consists of a row of 17th century buildings along the Singel canal. It has 93 rooms and 2 suites. It recently renovated 75 of its rooms. Free Wi-Fi.

• Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam

  phone: +31 20 552-0000
  address: Prins Hendrikkade 108
  An upscale hotel established in the monumental Scheepvaarthuis, the first building in Amsterdam School style that used to be the headquarters of six shipping companies. Breakfast is not included in the lower rates, but all include Wi-Fi.

• Krasnapolsky

  phone: +31 20 554-9111
  address: Dam 9
  A somewhat seedy location for a 5-star hotel, the main entrance is right on Dam Square, but the hotel backs onto the red-light district, with a view of sex-shops and peepshows.

• Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam

  phone: +31 20 623-4255
  address: Damrak 1-5
  A 4-star immediately opposite Centraal Station. Free Wi-Fi in public spaces.

• Radisson Blu

  phone: +31 20 623-1231
  address: Rusland 17

• Renaissance Amsterdam

  phone: +31 20 621-2223
  address: Kattengat 1
  A 4-star hotel with conference centre, Wi-Fi access in the lobby and café.

• Sofitel Legend The Grand

  phone: +31 20 555-3111
  address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 197
  The Sofitel has views on the canals. Weather permitting, lunch is served in the courtyard.

• Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam

  phone: +31 20 523-0900
  address: Oosterdokskade 43
  Read newspapers and magazines or relax at Amsterdam's main library. Internet terminals are available, but they are no longer free and going on-line now costs €1 per 30 minutes. It is limited to web-only access. It's possible to get Wi-Fi, but you need to show your passport.

The Binnenstad has an awful lot of museums, but quite frankly, most of them are not that good. The Anne Frank House in the Canal District is interesting, as are the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum in Zuid. An excellent addition to Amsterdam's already rich museum landscape is the Hermitage in Plantage, an annex of the famous museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
You can also take the ferry over the IJ from Amsterdam Centraal to Buiksloterweg in Noord. These are free of charge and provide nice views of the harbour and skyline. Then make a short walk to the EYE Film Institute for its architecture and visit the free exhibition in the basement (or see a film).