t The Nationaal Monument dominates Dam Square.
g Itineraries g Contents
Discover Itineraries
The Dam is the natural starting point for your voyage of discovery around Amsterdam. Pay your respects to Dutch victims of World War II at the Nationaal Monument, then stroll down Rokin street to the Amsterdam Museum. For a quick glimpse of the diverse collection, head straight for the Amsterdam Gallery, which is free to enter. After admiring the Old Masters here, say hello to ‘T Lieverdje, a cheeky bronze personification of Amsterdam, on the Spui. Next, take a peek into the tranquil Begijnhof, where Het Houten Huis is one of Amsterdam’s oldest houses.
Pause for lunch on the Spui at Café Luxembourg (www.cafeluxembourg.amsterdam), a classic brasserie. Order prawn croquettes and bitterballen (fried meatballs). Make your way along the canal-lined streets to the Museum Quarter in time for the 3:30pm guided tour of the Van Gogh Museum. Discover more about one of the world’s most famous artists while exploring one of the largest collections of his works.
For enjoyable multicultural street dining, amble a couple of blocks along Stadhouderskade to the inviting stalls of Albert Cuypmarkt. The only trouble here is choosing what to eat.
A visit to the Joods Historisch Museum is a humbling reminder of how much the city owes to the Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jews who found a tolerant refuge here as early as the 15th century. In sharp contrast, the Waterlooplein Market around the corner is a worldly clutter of flea-market stalls. Browsers can find everything here: vintage clothing, ethnic jewellery, antiques, curios and even pornography.
The waterside Café de Sluyswacht is the perfect place for a snack before strolling to the Museum Het Rembrandhuis. Take your time gaining an insight into the home life of Amsterdam’s greatest painter, before embarking on a leisurely walk along Sint Antoniesbreestraat to the Nieuwmarkt. Pause at In de Waag for a coffee before walking along Zeedijk – the main thoroughfare of Chinatown.
This area is dotted with Chinese, Indonesian and Thai eateries. Oriental City (www.oriental-city.com) is favoured by locals and specialises in Cantonese and Sezchuan food. Feast on the fabulous dim sum, with deliciously warming fillings. After dinner, wind up at In de Wildeman, one of the city’s finest proeflokalen, for an after-dinner glass of genever.
Discover Itineraries
t The Nationaal Monument dominates Dam Square.