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Travel Guide » Europe » Amsterdam
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Amsterdam
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(Netherlands)


History, art, a head of beer and a roll-your-own.

Amsterdam is one of the world's best hangouts, a canny blend of old and new: radical squatter art installations hang off 17th-century eaves; BMWs give way to bicycles; and triple-strength monk-made beer is drunk in gleaming, minimalist cafes.


The city seems to thrive on its mix and, despite hordes of tourists, still manages to feel quintessentially Dutch. The old crooked houses, the cobbled streets, the tree-lined canals and the generous parks all contribute to the atmosphere.

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Entertainment & Night Life

Even the most jaded culture vulture will be impressed by Amsterdam's selection of canalside pubs, hip-as-hell clubs, jazz venues and cutting-edge experimental theatre. Drop into a proeflokaal (brown cafe) for a couple of genevers (Dutch gins) or an ale or two.

Luxembourg
  (bar)

This once-elegant grand cafe has seen better days although its faded charm still makes it undeniably atmospheric. These days it's over-run with tourists who enjoy people-watching from the sunny terrace. But if you prefer to hang out with the locals, head inside for a drink.

Bar Bep
  (bar)

An excellent stop on a bar hop, this casual bar gets pretty packed with students and arts-media types. Have a drink al fresco (private parties are often held on the front terrace), or stay inside and get the bartenders working up some of their renowned cocktails. Order some bar snacks, hang out a while, then see where the night takes you.

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