In the course of the 17th century the famous crescent shape of the Amsterdam city centre was designed and realised resulting in the unique ring of canals. On the outskirts of the city centre, the canals ended in squares, where the city gates were located. The squares were used as parking places, since vehicles were not always allowed into the city itself.
About 20,000 buildings make up the historical city centre. One third of that was built before 1850. Amsterdam is not a city of churches and palaces, but of monumental mansions.
The only two houses in Amsterdam worthy of the name palace are the Royal Palace in the Dam Square and the Trippenhuis, Kloveniersburgwal 29. Originally, the Royal Palace was designed to serve as Amsterdam's town hall and the Trippenhuis was built for wealthy citizens.
The canals of course are one of the major attractions of the 'Venice of the North'. By daytime already very charming, by night they become even more enchanting because a lot of the canal houses and bridges are beautifully illuminated. The four main city centre canals are Prinsengracht, Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Singel, and of course there are numerous smaller canals, of which the Brouwersgracht, the Bloemgracht and the Leliegracht are especially pleasant.
Amsterdam is a great place for old and young people to come and admire. With it's crazy nightlife and individual theme you can really let go in Amsterdam.
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All city breaks sold by us are put together to meet your exact requirements. Whether you wish to stay in a 3 star or 5 star hotel, fly economy or club class we have the trained expertise and knowledge to cater for all you requirements.
For more information please use our contact form, email us at sales@avianova.co.uk, or phone us on 0161 772 9999.