Built around the storied Amstel River, Amsterdam is known as “The Venice of the North” thanks to its vast network of interlocked canals.

Characterized by charming Old World streets to bike on and wonderful waterways to see the city by boat from, its rich culture is a draw for foodies, museum hounds and music lovers alike.

Despite the intimate feel of Amsterdam, the greater metropolitan area is home to almost two and a half million people. The Dutch capital is also the largest city in the Netherlands, expanding greatly since its 12th-century founding as a fishing village. Comprised of eight boroughs – Centrum, Zuid, West, Oost, Noord, Nieuw-West, Zuidoost and Westpoort – there are several neighbourhoods within them to explore. Areas such as De Wallen, Jordann, Museumplein, de Pijp, Grachtengordel, Zuidas, Westerpark and the Plantage offer everything from world-class museums to amazing nightlife scenes and fantastic world cuisine.