The first thing that visitors have to do when they arrive is jump onto to bicycle. Exploring the city in this fashion is travelling Dutch style. One word of warning: be careful of the locals. It can be said that the Dutch on bikes is equivalent to New Yorkers in cars. Remember to always ride on the right side of the paths and that bikes always have the right of way, so take care that you don’t walk in their way!

But once travellers have mastered the streets of Amsterdam, they should head off to Dam Square. Where once this square was a place of violence and protests, it is now an overwhelmingly magnificent cobblestone square surrounded by imposing buildings, one of these buildings being the Nieuwe Kerk. Despite its name meaning ‘new church’, it is a building that is far from new. It was built in the 15th century to accommodate for the growing population in Amsterdam. It sits beside the Royal Palace and overlooks the many live statues, pigeons and tourists that explore Dam Square daily.

Walk a bit further and visitors will find Jordaan, a district of alleyways and canals. This working class district also has a turbulent history and is the only district in the city that does not have cobblestones. This is because of riots in the 1930s where people threw cobblestones at police – this eventuated in the government using asphalt as a replacement, but don’t be fooled by its rowdy past. It is one of the most sung about districts in Holland and is a place where everyone feels at home.

Not too far from here is the world famous red light district. While this is the area where prostitutes ply their trade, it is also a place where the city’s most beautiful buildings are housed. Enjoy the interesting pubs and unusual boutiques, but do not bring your camera – photos are far from appreciated.

Explore further south and visitors will find themselves in the De Pijp district. De Pijp, meaning ‘the pipes’ was once a maze of pipes, but since they have been filled in, market places and shops have taken over. This district is the home of the Albert Cuyp market and is said to be the busiest outdoor market in all of Europe.

The next district along is the Museumquarter that boasts the three major museums in the country – the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. These three art museums provide one of the most comprehensive collections of artwork in one area in Europe. They boast the possession of works from Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso and of course, Van Gogh.

Throughout this ramble, visitors will encounter sites such as the infamous Anne Frank Hus, the Heineken Museum, numerous coffee shops, beautiful gardens, random musicians, great entertainment and great fun for all. Amsterdam is a mixed bag that embodies all the beauty, history, culture and life that the Netherlands has to offer.