by Sheila Richardson

Amsterdam is the capital and the largest city of The Netherlands. This popular short break destination is primarily known for its red-light district and liberal coffee shops, but there is so much more to this beautiful city. Here are our suggestions for things to do in Amsterdam:

The canals

Red Light District

Amsterdam's Red Light District is as much of a cultural attraction as any museum or historical building. The notorious prostitutes’ quarter of the city is just as clean and well maintained as the rest of the city. It just so happens that the shops are selling something a little more exotic than postcards and souvenirs. Neither seedy nor particularly distasteful, it's one of Amsterdam's must see attractions (without the kids obviously).

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum houses over 200 paintings and 500 drawings by the famous artist as well as fine examples of his Japanese prints. The recently built wing by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa contains temporary exhibitions focusing on Van Gogh’s contemporaries and his influence on their work. Highly recommended.

Opening hours are from 10am-10pm on Friday and 10am-6pm all other days.

More city attractions

If you're not much of a sun lover, why not take a short break to Iceland or Finland. There are dozens of things to do in Helsinki and the tourist attractions in Reykjavik will leave you speechless.

For a great city just across the Channel, the Netherlands is the place to go. The incredibly diverse attractions of Amsterdam very rarely disappoint.

And finally, if it's excitement you're seeking, then the desert is the place to be. Either take in the bright lights and attractions in Las Vegas or enjoy the ever increasingly list of things to do in Dubai.