Car Hire Amsterdam - Mini guide to Amsterdam

With a reputation as Europe’s naughtiest city, Amsterdam has attracted the crowds, thanks to the pragmatic and permissive Dutch approach to controversial liberties such as prostitution and dope smoking. It is, however, a charming, attractive, and historic city offering something for everyone.

Bicycles are the most practical way to explore the delightful lanes and concentric canals of this largely unchanged ancient city. They girdle the old centre of the city, including the Begijnhof, Koninklijk Paleis and broad Dam square. From here the touristy Damrak runs to the lovely new-classic Centraal Station, keeping the red light district to its east and shopping precinct to the right. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are the other two focal points. Wandering through the quieter Jordaan is enchanting.

Amsterdam has some fantastic museums, the pick being the Van Gogh museum, enormous Rijks museum and Stadelijk museum all within 10 minutes walk of each in the southwest. The Anne Frank house is another tourist magnet. Many can’t help slipping into the smokey hemp and cheesy sex museums.

Amsterdam is a curious cultural melting pot, where tourists sometimes outnumber locals and bohemia is found on every corner. Strolling through the red light district (sensibly confined between two canals), needn’t leave you embarrassed, the locals are blasé about it, and there is plenty to see. If you’re so inclined, ”Coffee” shops are discreetly dotted all over the city, but concentrated in certain areas, and strictly separated from bars and restaurants.

For first-timers, canal boat trip is mandatory!