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.

Select an option from the set of our Amsterdam apartments and stay in the charming area of Zuideramstel with close access to the fantastic RAI Centre.

If you enjoy wildlife of different sorts, you cannot ask for a better opportunity to see some of the finest species in a perfect natural setting. The Artis Royal Zoo is a great place to admire some of the most amazing specimens of unusual and exotic fauna, but also to enjoy the marvelous examples of 19th century architecture. It is a truly remarkable spot for anyone looking for something more than the casual metropolitan chic offered by the Venice of the North.

If you are on a short stay in Amsterdam on April 30, 2013, then pack your camera and your comfortable shoes and head to the city centre to witness the anticipated investiture of Holland’s new King, taking place at the Royal Palace and New Church on Dam Square. An event not to miss, it falls on the same day as the last Queen’s Day celebration with happenings all over the city.

Founded in Amsterdam in 1955, the World Press Photo constitutes an independent, non profit organisation that produces over 100 exhibitions each year across the globe, alluring admirers in their droves through astounding visual journalism. This emphatic tour of prize winning photography is regarded as the most popular of its kind in the world, which strives to expose both the horror and beauty of modern life through the lens.

Amsterdam’s China Town is well known for its impressive offer of exotic eateries and for being home to an incredibly beautiful Buddhist temple, but its fame is also given by the presence, in the suggestive Zeedijk, of a number of gay and gay-friendly venues.

The Begijnhof is one of those really rare sights to see, especially given the ever-developing modern metropolitan setting of Amsterdam. It is one of the oldest inner courts in the city – and the only remaining one, for that matter. Once you’re there you’ll come across a range of breathtaking 14th-century typical Dutch buildings; they are private houses in vast majority – still occupied today, so you have to remember to respect the privacy of the residents although the entry itself is free. Apart from that, the place is also a home to the English Reformed Church, so you can expect to see daily masses, weddings and baptism ceremonies taking place.

To say that a visit to the fabulous House of Bols is something truly special is a great understatement. This place won the prestigious Dutch Design Award for Best Exhibition and Experience of 2007, thus proving that it is well-able to bring the best of both worlds – the past – rich in history and tradition, and the present – abounding with innovation and state-of-the-art ideas. This place is not only a museum or an exhibition, it is an interactive experience aimed at stimulating all of your senses, with the main theme of bright and colorful drinks and bartending. As you can imagine, the fun is addressed at 18+ audience, so make sure to have your ID with you to make you able to discover the amazing world of vivid colors, intense fragrances and remarkable tastes!

Experience tranquil surroundings in the heart of the busy city centre. Located in the Plantage district Hortus Botanicus is a great outing for all ages and includes a three-climate greenhouse and a butterfly greenhouse. For a more impressive and picture perfect outing we recommend a summer visit when the garden is in full bloom.

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.