The charming Dutch capital Amsterdam is a delightful short break holiday with a host of experiences to suit all travellers, from families to partygoers.

Founded as a village in the 13th century, Amsterdam was named following the damming of the river Amstel. The city was built on fishing and trade and boomed during the 17th century when it was the centre of the Netherlands and the sizeable Dutch empire.

Its fortunes dwindled before picking up again during the industrial revolution, when the population grew rapidly. The Netherlands were invaded by Germany during World War II and Dutch Jews were heavily persecuted.

With a population of almost 750,000, it is surprising that Amsterdam has still managed to maintain its small town feel, even in the centre. The key to this is one of the largest historic city centres in Europe and its labyrinth of canals.

The narrow wooden and brick houses along the old tree-lined canal systems are beautiful and the cobbled streets and pretty bridges add to the old world charm.

However, Amsterdam is also very much a modern city and is famous for its progressive attitudes. Amsterdam’s clubs and bars are legendary and there are enough open till all hours, to satisfy even the most jaded hedonist.

From quiet café bars by the canals, to large dance venues, the evenings in Amsterdam are as busy as the daytime. Plus its cheap to get to with flights out of season availablefor less than £50.

Amsterdam is famous for its excellent museums and art galleries, which include the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the work of the prolific Dutch painter and his contemporaries, the opulent Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank Huis, and the Amsterdams Historisch Museum. which is perfect for the cultral holiday maker.

The Rembrandt House Museum, the ornate Museum Willet-Holthuysen and the Stedelijk Museum are also worth a visit.

For families, the Artis Zoo has an impressive collection of animals, a planetarium a large aquarium and extensive gardens. The city also has a number of lovely parks and large botanical gardens for those seeking tranquillity...If you prefer a more peaceful holiday.

Amsterdam has a dizzying selection of clubs and bars and other evening entertainments are provided by a vibrant music scene, with everything from classical concerts and opera to rock gigs in small clubs, and a lively gay scene.

Amsterdam does have its seedier side and its relaxed laws have made it a magnet for sex tourists, who head for the busy red light district. Others are drawn by its laid back attitude to smoking cannabis and many coffee shops in Amsterdam provide customers with a menu, though the authorities have started to crack down on the practice.

Home to world-class local team Ajax, Amsterdam attracts crowds of football fans to its Amsterdam Arena. It also has an impressive Olympic Stadium built for the 1928 games, which runs a busy programme of sporting and cultural events.

Transport into and around Amsterdam is excellent and visitors can arrive easily by train, plane or boat. Many of the budget airlines fly to nearby Schipol Airport. Amsterdam is busiest during the spring and summer, when its colourful flowers are in bloom, though it also pleasant and quieter in autumn and winter.

Dutch people often speak their native tongue, almost impeccable English and some French and German, making the city cosmopolitan and easy to negotiate for tourists. The country has adopted the euro and plays a key role in the European Union.

Accommodation in Amsterdam is plentiful and caters to all holiday budgets, from basic hostels for backpackers to plush historic house hotels along the canals. Food similarly runs the whole gamut of styles and prices, with a range of European cuisines, fine dining options, basic cafes and fast food options available.