Amsterdam

A short history

The Dutch Golden Age built this city. The Amsterdam Stock Exchange, founded in 1602, is generally considered the first modern stock exchange, and the merchant wealth that flowed through it paid for the narrow, ornately gabled townhouses still lining the water. They are narrow for a reason: property was taxed on frontage, so the houses went deep and tall instead — which is also why the hoist beams are still bolted above so many top-floor windows.

Why travellers love it

For a first trip to Europe it is unusually forgiving: compact, flat, walkable, and English is spoken almost everywhere. The museums are world-class without being overwhelming, and the rail connections mean a second or third city can be added to the trip without a second flight.

Before you go

The Netherlands is in the Schengen area, so arrange a visa well in advance if your passport needs one. April to May brings the tulips and September is quieter and still mild. Book the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House online before you fly — the latter sells out weeks ahead and does not sell at the door. And watch for bicycles: the red lanes are a road, not a pavement.

Highlights

• A canal cruise
• The Rijksmuseum
• Vondelpark
• The Jordaan neighbourhood