One of Europe’s most visited capitals Amsterdam isn’t just about the red lights and the smoke-filled cafes. Its relaxed atmosphere, the cultural history and varied activities on offer make it a desirable city amongst all age groups while the quality of its offerings keep people coming back for more and are also attracting many new visitors every year.

Step back into history and experience how Rembrandt and 17th century Amsterdam lived. See Rembrandt’s paintings, drawings and etchings and watch how he mixed his paints and made his etchings. Located in the old city centre this is a reconstruction of the famous Dutch painters house and not the place to see his masterpieces. All in all it makes an interesting and educational outing for all ages.

Visit one of Amsterdam’s most popular attractions and see the work of one of Holland’s most famous individuals and artists. Located at the Museum Square the Van Gogh Museum, which has the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s work, makes for a nice outing even if you’re not an art lover.

Located across the IJ River in Amsterdam’s undiscovered north, the NDSM Wharf remained a forgotten wasteland for years, left abandoned after the decline of the ship building industry that prospered emphatically for the best part of the 20th century. Invaded by squatters and a collective group of artists, this derelict space slowly began to change shape, replacing industry with creativity to become the striking setting of cultural prowess that exists today.

Surprise. Innovation. Thrill. Progressiveness. Controversy. Distinctiveness. A collection of random associations? Not really, for actually all of the abovementioned ideas will instantly spring to your mind after a visit in Amsterdam’s Stedelijk Museum – the place to be if you’re looking for some quality excitement with contemporary art and design as the main theme.

Ideally located upon Amsterdam’s famous Museumplein, referred to as a paradise for art lovers, the magnificent Rijksmuseum is an attraction definitely worthy of a visit. Boasting a huge collection of impressive exhibitions, the Dutch National Museum is dedicated to arts, crafts and history and includes renowned masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’ and Vermeer’s ‘The Milkmaid’.

Whilst our Amsterdam self-catering holiday apartments are designed with your comfort in mind and usually fitted with televisions and wireless internet, don’t forget to check out Amsterdam’s many entertainment options close by. Our favourite haunt has to be the city’s spectacular Pathé Tuschinski Cinema.

Occupying a prime position upon Amsterdam’s bustling Dam Square, located within an historical building, is the fun filled, interactive waxwork museum – the world famous Madame Tussauds. Attracting thousands of visitors throughout the year, this entertaining experience allows visitors an opportunity to come face to face with the stars and celebrities of the past and present day.

While walking down the streets of Amsterdam the other day, I realized how diverse and edgy Dutch fashion is and how, weirdly enough, it is quite unknown to fashionistas around the world. Yes, everyone has heard about Viktor & Rolf and the well-known supermodels Doutzen Kroes, Mark van der Loo, Lara Stone and Karen Mulder, but what about hard-core fashion? What about designers? Paris, Milan, London… what about Amsterdam!?