Visit a hotel in Amsterdam

A walk past the main attractions around the area of Dam Square, in the heart of Amsterdam, is all it takes to get a sense of the historical nature of the city.

The perfect starting point is Dam Square itself.
On its western side you can see the Royal Palace and the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church).
To the east is the National Monument, established to remember the victims of World War II.

Walk along the main shopping street, Kalverstraat.
Halfway along, turn right on the Spui.
Immediately to the right here is the Begijnhof.
This ancient court is traditionally inhabited by unmarried women with a religious background (but not nuns). Further along begins the canals.
These can be difficult to orient yourself at first, but the church towers can be used as beacons.

In the distance you may see the blue crown atop the tower of the Westerkerk.
This church is located near the Anne Frank House and the Homo Monument.
Walking a little further on the Prinsengracht, you pass the many side streets, which are home to boutique shops, trendy restaurants and many very cosy terraces.
At the end of the Prinsengracht, turn right onto Haarlemmerdijk.
Moving towards Central Station, you will pass the bike parking garage, a multi-floor construction where thousands of bikes are parked each day.

Attractions for young and old
Throughout the city, there are attractions which cater to the whole family.
During a visit to Madame Tussauds, you may find yourself encountering one of your celebrity or historical heroes. Or enjoy a pleasantly creepy experience in The Amsterdam Dungeon.
A fun combination of entertainment and education can be found at science centre NEMO, where the VOC ship of the Maritime Museum is also docked.
And, of course, Amsterdam's zoo, Artis, is popular with young and old all year round.

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