Amsterdam’s stunning architecture, friendly locals, and cultural activities speak to the true essence of this European city. Full of free-spirited locals, Amsterdam is infamous for its tolerance of vice, and Amsterdam’s red light district and designated “coffeeshops” may appear to outshine everything else the city has to offer. But visitors to Amsterdam are likely to leave remembering the beauty of this city on the water.
With more canals than Venice, Amsterdam is the perfect place to soak up the charm of an old European city. To experience the city like locals, visitors can rent a bike and pedal up and down the streets and take in the 17th century architecture. During the winter, residents trade in wheels for blades and ice skate in public rinks and even on canals when they freeze over.
Other things to do in Amsterdam include exploring the different neighborhoods, which each have something unique to offer. In Dam Square, one of Amsterdam’s oldest districts, visitors can marvel at the Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk, and the Beurs van Berlage, which had a major influence on modern architecture in the Netherlands. In the Nine Streets area, tourists can satisfy their craving for trendsetting fashion or for tasty cuisine at the many unique shops and restaurants.
Amsterdam has no shortage of enriching activities, and the city celebrates its multiculturalism with many museums. The Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Ann Frank House are only a few of the many options. And since the city is one of the safest in the world, guests can feel comfortable strolling around the streets to their favorite destinations.
Europe Tours including Amsterdam http://tinyurl.com/3yc6rvo




7 Nights on Deluxe Cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg: Embark in Budapest and travel for 7 nights up the River Danube through Hungary, Austria and Germany exploring cities and towns along the way – Vienna, Melk, Regensburg and Nuremberg where you disembark and head home.
3 Nights in Paris plus 7 Nights on Deluxe Cruise from Trier to Amsterdam: Spend three nights in Paris before embarking on your 7-night cruise through the center of Germany. See Christmas lights and decorations everywhere and visit Christmas markets in towns where holiday traditions go back for centuries.
Save $400 per booking ($200 per person) when you book the November 26, 2008 departure of the 12 Day Christmas Wonderland River Cruise. Booking is not valid with other discounts or for group travel. Additional restrictions apply.