Leisure
Dining
While a hearty meal of liverwurst (traditional sausage made with liver) washed down
with local Heineken beer is considered typical, dining out in Amsterdam tends to be
an international experience. From Turkish rolled pizza to spicy Surinamese broodjes
(sandwiches), menus reflect the immigrants who call the city home as well as
centuries of Dutch colonial rule. Indonesian food is particularly popular. Try rijsttafel (an elaborate meal of
Indonesian dishes with rice) on and around Utrechtsestraat. For different Asian
cuisine, head to Chinatown, in the Nieuwmarkt area. Try the Negen Straatjes and Jordaan areas for small, good-quality restaurants. Head
to Toscanini for authentic Italian. Just west of Jordaan is the atmospheric
Amsterdam restaurant, a former water-pumping factory that now serves
high-quality Dutch fare.
Shopping
Leidsestraat, Kalverstraat and Nieuwendjik make up the
city's main shopping districts. Also soak up the atmosphere of
Amsterdam's markets. Among the best is Singel's famous floating
Bloemenmarkt (flower market), founded in 1862, where you can pick out a
bunch of Dutch tulips from a sea of color. For traditional handmade and painted Delft pottery, head to Jorrit
Heinen. If the Dutch amber nectar appeals to you, the beer shop De
Bierkoning is well worth a visit. You'll find original gifts
– from bicycle-tire bags to soft clog slippers – at Saskya
& Co., near the central station.
Things to do
Walk or cycle along Amsterdam's labyrinth of canals to reach the
city's highlights. At Anne Frank's House on Prinsengracht,
you can see the original diary and learn more about the family's
experiences. Next door stands the Dutch Renaissance-style Westerkerk church,
where Rembrandt is buried. An absolute must-see, the Van Gogh Museum houses the largest collection of the
Dutch master's work. Nearby is the imposing Rijksmuseum, home to
many Rembrandts and Vermeers. Finish your tour by strolling through leafy
Vondelpark.
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