Amsterdam

Cross a few canals to reach the Anne Frank House, where the world's most famous diary was written. It now serves as a museum, drawing over 1 million visitors each year. Check out the nearby Westerkerk (Western Church), where Rembrandt was buried.

Step onto the Rozengracht (Rose Canal) to find yourself in the Jordaan neighbourhood. Once a typical working-class area, it's now an expensive place to live. Spend some time exploring the many art galleries and the little courtyards known as hofjes.

Follow the Prinsengracht (Princes Canal) south, past the Leidseplein. This is a lively square at night, so stop by later for a drink. Make your way to the Rijksmuseum to find Dutch masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

The Museumplein (Museum Square) stretches out behind the Rijksmuseum. Here you'll find the Van Gogh Museum, as well as the Stedelijk Museum for modern and contemporary art. When you're all maxed out on museums, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Vondelpark.

Part of Amsterdam's Old South area, De Pijp is a truly bohemian area. Go shopping at the always busy Albert Cuyp Market, where you can buy Dutch specialties here like cheese, herring and stroopwafels (syrup waffles), but also food from Suriname, Turkey, Morocco and the Antilles.

If shopping made you thirsty, sit down at one of the many bars in the area. Beer enthusiasts can also take the tour at the Heineken Experience, located in the original Heineken brewery. Tasting included!

Follow the Amstel river north to find the Dutch branch of St. Petersburg's world-renowned Hermitage museum. Interestingly enough, Tsar Peter the Great modelled the city of St. Petersburg after Amsterdam, impressed as he was with the architecture and the canals.

Circle around the Waterlooplein (Waterloo Square), where the National Opera House is located. Walk on in northern direction to reach the Nieuwmarkt (New Market). This square is dominated by The Waag (Weigh House), originally a city gate in the 15th century.

De Nieuwmarkt is located on the border of De Wallen, Amsterdam's notorious Red Light District. It was also the medieval city center, so try to look beyond the neon-lit windows. Follow the canal up and down to get a good impression of his lively area.

When you're finished, walk up to the historic Zeedijk (Sea Dike). Now the main street of Amsterdam's Chinatown, this is a great place to get Chinese, Thai or Vietnamese food. Follow the Zeedijk north to find yourself back at Amsterdam Centraal Station.