Amsterdam

Amsterdam exudes a poignant beauty and cohesion that belies its multi-faceted character. From its infamous Red Light district and lively nightlife to the village-like calm of its canals and the laid-back atmosphere of its "brown cafes," it never ceases to delight and entertain. With its rich and varied art collections and museums, and architecture spanning over six centuries, Amsterdam is in the premier league of European cultural giants. This guide is packed with ideas for a romantic weekend, a cultural tour, or hitting the town. It takes you off the tourist trail to an Amsterdam known only to the locals from ancient flea markets to hidden hofjes. There are personal recommendations and insider knowledge to help you find the best of the city, from the Grand Canals to the harbor islands. Inside you will find: 96 places to stay, 179 restaurants and 71 bars, plus clubs, theaters, music venues and festivals all personally reviewed; 22 detailed maps; 12 pages of full color maps with grid references to help you find every sight and recommendation in the guide.Bolt, Rodney is the author of 'Amsterdam', published 2004 under ISBN 9781860111204 and ISBN 1860111203.