Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. It is also one of the largest and most historic cities in Europe. Amsterdam is located close to the Amstel River as well as the Ij Bay. The city is well known by many tourists for its entertainment and culture.

At this time, the population of Amsterdam is over 700,000. This city has a very humble background. It was founded as a small fishing village in the 1100s and was not widely recognized until the 1600s which was considered the Golden Age of The Netherlands. The older sections of the city are surrounded by a series of canals. Situated near these canals are many extravagant mansions and homes.

You will not be bored on a trip to Amsterdam. It is famous for its many art museums, which are a delight to art lovers the world over. The Rijksmuseum showcases art from the Golden Age. The Van Gogh Museum and the Rembrandt House Museum are must-sees for anyone visiting Amsterdam. History lovers will want to tour the Anne Frank House, and for classical music lovers there is the world class Concertgebouworkest.

Amsterdam is certainly a city for all tastes. Among other things, it is known for its red light district, called de Wallen as well as coffee shops. Some of these shops are known for selling cannabis. Aside from the exciting nightlife, there are also the cobbled streets and peaceful canals that are popular with visitors.

Listed here are 10 suggestions to get you started on your way to a wonderful visit in Amsterdam:

1. Dam Square - This is the original site of the Amstel dam and is the hub of the city. The Square's focal point is the Royal Palace. The Royal Palace was originally the town hall, and after Louis Napoleon's crowning in 1808 became regal in its own right.

2. Anne Frank's House - This house is close to the Square. It is a constant reminder of Nazi occupation during WWII. Her famous diary is housed here. Be prepared for a wait as this location gets a lot of traffic during the busy tourist season.

3. Rijksmuseum - This wonderful museum is home to some of the world's most important historic artwork. The most famous pieces of art here are those of Rembrandt. Frans Hals and Vermeer also have several prominent pieces displayed here. There are also priceless examples of porcelain dolls and doll houses which can be viewed here.

4. Van Gogh Museum - This museum built exclusively for Van Gogh exhibits includes not only many of his finest pieces, but is also home to the largest collection of his work anywhere in the world.

5. Albert Cuypmarkt - This mart offers just about anything you can think of in the way of shopping. It is a cosmopolitan shopping region that will certainly take care of any shopping needs you may have.

6. Queen's Day - This is a celebration of any and everything gay and lesbian. There is music everywhere and a huge gay and lesbian crowd gathers in Amsterdam.

7. Vondelpark Summer - Held between June and August, this festival features various forms of entertainment including open air concerts, theatre and cabaret. It is family fun for men, women and children of every age.

8. Holland Festival - This is the largest of all the annual arts events in the country. It is held for three weeks during June.

9. Dutch Clogs - No visit to Holland would be complete without at least trying on a pair of the famous wooden clogs. Dutch dolls and Delft pottery are among other native souvenirs you will find.

10. Grand Cafes - Take a well-deserved rest from your sightseeing at one of the many famous cafes that are spread throughout the city. Try the local erwtensoep as you wet your whistle and quench your thirst.

Michael Russell
http://amsterdam-guides.com/