Amsterdam
Amsterdam, with its iconic canals, historic architecture, and world-class museums, is a city that blends rich heritage with a modern creative spirit. The canal belt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best explored by boat or on foot, offering picturesque views of 17th-century merchant houses and charming bridges. The Museumplein is home to cultural landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum, which houses masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the works of the legendary Dutch painter. The Anne Frank House provides a deeply moving experience, offering insight into one of history’s most powerful stories of resilience. Meanwhile, the Jordaan district, once a working-class neighbourhood, is now filled with independent art galleries, boutique shops, and cosy cafés.
Amsterdam’s cultural scene is as diverse as its history, with a thriving music and nightlife scene that ranges from classical concerts at the Royal Concertgebouw to cutting-edge electronic music in renowned clubs like Shelter and De School. Street performers and jazz musicians add to the city’s lively atmosphere, particularly in areas like Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. The city’s cycling culture is an integral part of daily life, with bike-friendly streets making it easy to explore hidden courtyards, historic windmills, and lush parks such as Vondelpark. Throughout the year, Amsterdam hosts events like King’s Day, where the city turns into a sea of orange, and the Amsterdam Light Festival, which transforms the canals with illuminated art installations.
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in, from traditional Dutch dishes to international cuisine. Local specialities include stroopwafels, freshly made herring from street vendors, and bitterballen, deep-fried meat snacks often enjoyed with a cold beer. The city’s thriving café culture is best experienced in its brown cafés, traditional Dutch pubs known for their cosy atmosphere and historic charm. Amsterdam’s multicultural influence is evident in its food markets, such as the Albert Cuyp Market, where stalls serve everything from Surinamese roti to Indonesian rijsttafel, a feast of small dishes reflecting the country’s colonial past. Whether exploring its rich artistic heritage, cycling along the canals, or enjoying its vibrant food scene, Amsterdam offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.
Our Favourite Places in The Amsterdam
Our Favourite Hotels in The Azores
Ambassade
Our Favourite
Rated as ‘one of the 100 best hotels in the world’, the Ambassade consists of 10 beautiful 17th century Dutch houses, overlooking the Herengracht and Singel canals.With a wealth of original paintings, porcelain, antique clocks and furniture, this small, privately-owned, very characterful and exquisitely furnished hotel offers impeccable service and attention to detail. ‘Brasserie Ambassade’ serving classic French cuisine and a new library bar were added in 2015. Lift to most floors (advise us if essential). There are 58 bedrooms and a flotation and massage centre next door. One of our favourite hotels – highly recommended.
The Grand Amsterdam
The Grand is one of the city’s most famous and luxurious hotels. Formerly Amsterdam’s town hall, no expense has been spared in the decoration and furnishing of the elegant lounges, brasserie and 178 bedrooms.The hotel is built around a peaceful courtyard garden where lunch and dinner are served in summer and has some excellent facilities including the popular ‘Bridges’ restaurant, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room.
Pulitzer
Overlooking two of the city’s most picturesque canals, the Pulitzer consists of 25 fully renovated interconnecting 17th and 18th century houses. The recent refurbishment emphasises many of the original features of these historic canal houses while at the same time adding contemporary accents including the hotel’s large collection of modern art. The 225 rooms come in all shapes and sizes, many with excellent canal views, and are decorated with muted colours and vintage furniture. Restaurant ‘Jansz’ serves modern cuisine with a Dutch twist – delightful canal views make this the perfect place to enjoy the generous breakfast. The bar is something of an Amsterdam institution and has a cosy, gentleman’s club atmosphere, while in contrast the garden café is full of light and opens onto the Pulitzer’s hidden gem; its spacious and peaceful courtyard garden.
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01442 879787
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