The problem in Amsterdam isn't finding something to do. With an abundance of historic sites, thriving clubs, excellent restaurants and unique architecture, the real worry is deciding what not to do.
It may be a tourist cliché, but taking a canal tour by barge is by far the best way to see Amsterdam and its magnificent buildings. With boats leaving Damrak by Central Station and Rokin by the Spui throughout the day, the 90-minute voyage affords a spectacular view of this thoroughly maritime city.
Visit the world famous Heineken Brewery at 78 Stadhouderskade. Now a museum and visitors center, the home of the Netherlands' most famous beer offers two tours every weekday morning at 9:30 and 11:00 between June and September. The insight into brewing history is fascinating, but it is the generous free samples that make this attraction so popular!
Take a trip outside the city to Marken, a small island where many of the inhabitants still wear traditional Dutch dress and live in old-style wooden houses. Catching bus 111 from Central Station (times available by dialing 0900-9292) is the best method of getting there, although organized coach tours are available.
Learn the lessons of history by going to Museumplein, where you can drop into the Rijksmuseum to view their unparalleled collection of paintings by the Dutch Masters and a wealth of historical artifacts. Also within a stone's throw are both the Stedelijk - a major collection of modern art - and the Van Gogh museum, which boasts the world's largest collection of the famous artist's work.
Step inside the Cannabis Museum at 148 Oudezijds Achterburgwal to find out about the plant that made Amsterdam notorious. Open daily from 11am to 10pm, this unusual institution illustrates the use of cannabis as a medicine, raw material and intoxicant through the ages. There is even a working hemp garden on display.
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