7 places you have to visit in Amsterdam

Summer 2009 has ended. Taverns are closed, deck chairs are locked in the cellars and a cold wind blows on the beach. Where should you go on vacation when your favorite summer destination recalls a ghost town? What about a weekend in the city, going from museum to museum and dining at famous local restaurants?

Amsterdam is one of the best small cities in the world. The city is known worldwide not only for its channels, but also for may museums and historical monuments. There is always something to admire, particularly the pervasive tolerance and diversity. You can find there all the advantages of the city: the history, nightlife, entertainment, international restaurants, good public transportation - but it is a quiet town with little traffic on the roads, especially thanks to its channels. In Amsterdam is nothing far away - but do not forget to rent a bike for an even better experience.

7 places you have to visit in Amsterdam

1. Oude Kerk - right in the middle of the Red Light District is situated this old church with small houses on the sides. Its buildings, especially the octagonal Gothic-Renaissance tower, were used mostly by sailors to get their bearings.

2. Dam square - although we would find more beautiful attractions, Dam Square is the center and heart of Amsterdam. Its history is very fascinating. Dam has witnessed numerous historical dramas over the years, for example Napoleon's soldiers settled there when they occupied the city in 1808. Dam history is well documented in the Amsterdam Historical Museum. The Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) dominates the square. There was originally a town hall and its classical facade and beautiful statues were intended to celebrate the city of Amsterdam. In contrast to its turbulent history, the square is now a quiet place and home of hundreds of pigeons and tourists who rest there.

3.Begijnhof - is a charming well-hidden garden surrounded by old houses. These houses were inhabited by nuns, and there still live unmarried women. In the center of the garden is a medieval church and the number 34 is the oldest house in Amsterdam. The entrance is on the street Spui and is marked with an engraved emblem. Entry is free.

4. Magere Brug - or "Skinny Bridge" is the most famous bridge out of the 1280 or so bridges in Amsterdam. It is a traditional Dutch drawbridge connecting the banks of the river Amstel. The bridge was built in 1670.

5. Jordaan - once a working class area, now one of the most sought after addresses in Amsterdam. Rebuilt factories attract mainly students, wealthy businessmen and artists. The idyllic atmosphere consists of a mixture of narrow streets, picturesque canals, cafés, shops and art galleries.

6. Rembrandtplein square - is lined with restaurants, pubs, cafés and hotels. It is a true magnet for tourists and a popular center of nightlife. You can also find there the traditional Dutch pub with real Dutch music. In the center of the square is a small but pleasant park where you can relax or pay homage to the statue of Rembrandt. Near the square are also great night clubs, diamond dealers, shops with tacky souvenirs and a plenty of gays who are waiting for their date.

7. Red Light District - atmosphere of alcohol, party, sex and various Peeping Toms is omnipresent. Shops offer hardcore videos, magazines and toys for adults. The Red Light District is a some sort of a sinful sexual amusement park visited by hordes of tourists. The famous red light distracts from the beautiful old houses around the channels. The area is constantly guarded by the police, but even though you should be careful. There is a strict ,,no photography“ policy.

And do not forget – a trip to Amsterdam is not complete without a boat cruise on a canal and a visit to a windmill.

How to get there

Amsterdam is one of the best European destinations and can be reached easily both by air and by land, or even sea. Book your cheap ticket with one of the many low cost airlines that fly to Amsterdam. Getting there might be really cheap if you take advantage of various airfare deals on flights to Amsterdam´s airport Schiphol which is located just a few kilometers from the city center. on