Amsterdam has many faces. Everybody knows the 165 romantic ditches with the 1281 bridges, more than 600.000 bikes, the nightlife and the flower market. But apart from that the city offers you many other curiosities, excellent possibilities for shopping and al kinds of exhibitions in 50 museums. Every day you can choose from many concerts, theatre shows and events. Amsterdam is a Capital of Sports with traditions and trends. It is even the only Dutch city who has housed the Olympic Games. Amsterdam has it all!

Each year there are many visitors in the Dutch capital and there are many concerts, festivals and events organised. Amsterdam is famous for their going out facilities where everybody can enjoy themselves.

At de 17th century, the golden century, many good fortuned travellers were curious about the miracle of Europe. The art treasures from this golden century are the decisive evidence for it. And can visit them in the museums.

The Dam (or Dam Square) is the symbolic heart of the city. On one side stands the National Monument, whose sculptured human figures represent freedom from tyranny. On May 4 each year, the Queen and members of the government lay wreaths here during a ceremony to commemorate the country’s war dead. On the other side, you can find the Royal Palace, dating from 1655. Many of its state rooms are open to the public.

In a popular Dutch song, an admirer pledges his heart forever to the canals of Amsterdam. No wonder! They give the city a charm that’s hard to resist. Get to know the “Grachtengordel”, the intricate web of waterways in the heart of the city. Linger on the bridges and watch the boats go by beneath you or take one of the many canal tours.

Just west of the centre is the picturesque residential area known as the “Jordaan”, originally built to house Amsterdam’s working class in the 17th century. The area is bordered by four canals: Prinsengracht, Brouwersgracht, Lijnbaansgracht and Looiersgracht. Here you’ll find shops with unusual specialities such as buttons, wrought-iron, and personalised seals, and intimate pubs and eateries abound. And when you want a break from the bustle of the city, visit the beautiful Begijnhof, or the Vondelpark.

More information

More information about Amsterdam is available at the www.iamsterdam.com.

Information about all the sporting events in Amsterdam can be found on the website www.topsportamsterdam.nl.