A city that can make a virtue out of canals and cannabis and come out smiling from bleak north European winters has got to have something going for it. Amsterdam holidays offer variety if nothing else.
Amsterdam city has a street cafe society that openly defies 230 rainy days each year and, while galleries tout the greatest paintings in the world, the Amsterdam Red Light District has eye-popping hookers pouting and posing behind neon-lit street windows.
As if that weren't enough, there's an annual Amsterdam contest for the Cannabis Cup, a prize for which of Amsterdam's infamous drug peddling coffeeshops can grow the best weed; a beer factory tour that's become world famous; and, of course, bikes, bikes and bikes - 700,000 at the last count, nearly one for every Amsterdammer.
Not everyone on a cheap flight city break to Amsterdam is there to sample the sex and drugs. Steer clear of the Red Light District and discover Amsterdam's unrivalled holiday reputation for shopping, entertainment and things to do. Amsterdam restaurants alone make this a great city for weekend holidays.
The galleries and museums are among the best and its cobbled, canal-lined streets, with gabled houses and quiet gardens, are irresistible. There are things to do at every turn; marvel at Amsterdam's 17th century architectural heritage or poke around the curio shops and designer boutiques.
The delightful network of inner city canals creates a cosy, relaxed atmosphere rarely found in a city of this size and its compact centre makes it ideal for exploring on foot. Everything is within easy reach of the main Amsterdam hotels and an inviting cafe or bar is always nearby for a lunch break or welcome drink.
Amsterdam holidays are noted for relaxation and the city has a reputation for a laid back attitude. But the modern city is not without its intolerant side. Bike thefts top a rising table of petty crime, racially driven street riots are not unknown and Protestant city fathers are clamouring for a clean-up of Amsterdam's Red Light District. Whatever your thoughts on Amsterdam's unique culture, you cannot help but rank it high as a great destination for city break holidays.
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Red Light
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