Amsterdam is a city known for its iconic canals and red light, but the city offers delights for everyone to enjoy. Amsterdam is a built on the remains of a swamp with canals weaving between tall brick townhouses that pre-date the 1800’s. For those interested in architecture the Oude Kerk is a must full of historical architecture and atmosphere. Make sure to take in the city by boat either a water taxi, or if you have the time and budget take a river cruise and relax with friends as you weave through the canals.

You will be hard pressed to find cars in the old town as biking is the main form of public transportation, unsurprising for a country that has more bikes than people. Rent a bike and ride around the old town, you’ll blend in with the locals and enjoy the feast for the senses that is the old town. Make sure to take some time and stop by local restaurants and try local cuisine. Dutch food is often based on local resources leading to a large amount of fish in the cuisine, coupled with the national love of frying anything it’s hard to go wrong.

While known for its beautiful architecture Amsterdam is also known for its traditional Dutch tulips. The Bloemenmarkt is a floating flower market on the Sengel Canal and is bursting with fresh-cut blooms. Those that are nature lovers should make sure to check out the Hortus Botanica is the oldest botanical gardens and was originally cultivated to provide herbs to the city’s doctors. The gardens now provide a place to relax and unwind for thousands of visitors a year. The Vondelpark is also excellent place to stroll and enjoy the greenery, and it’s almost certain that you’ll find something to do there.

Not to leave out the history buffs, Amsterdam is full to the brim with opportunities for those who want to learn. A must see is the Anne Frank house which documents one family’s journey through the Holocaust, while somber it is incredibly moving and interesting to be in the space they lived in. For those interested in art the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum house the works of Van Gogh and Rembrandt and Dutch masters respectively. If you want to learn more about the royal family make sure to tour the Royal Palace of Amsterdam which served as the King’s residence when he was in town.

For those wanting to blend in make sure to explore the Jordaan neighborhood along the canals. The neighborhood is full of cute boutiques, cafes, and coffee shops. Make sure to people watch at Dam Square and stop by Madame Tussauds world famous wax museum full of famous faces. Swing by the Amsterdam Zoo, one of the oldest in Europe. It houses a shady garden section, butterfly pavilion, coral reef, peek into a canal, and a planetarium. Another family activity is the NEMO Science Center situated on the cities Eastern Docks, and is full of educational and informative exhibits for all ages.

Amsterdam is a city filled with history and a cultured present, making it a worthwhile trip for any traveler.