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Book Flights To Amsterdam And Make The Most Of The City’s Stunning Waterways

The elegantly curved canals of the Dutch capital, Amsterdam, are much admired – so much so that this summer the city’s 17th-century canal belt was awarded UNESCO heritage status. Coming at an ideal time, the recognition was swiftly followed by the start of the annual Canal Festival on the 14th August. Awards and festivals aside, though, this is the time of the year that residents flock to their favourite spots on the water to dine, dance, cycle and loll about blissfully doing nothing. Book flights to Amsterdam and join them in embracing life by the water.

Canalside Cuisine
Some canal scenes are all about lingering – over a leisurely meal, for example. At De Belhamel, you can enjoy outstanding French fare and relax on their sublime canalside terrace. The food is only half the appeal, however. From this privileged spot at a T-shaped intersection you’ll be able to see boats passing by in three directions. Meanwhile, if you’re seeking some coffee and cake by the water’s edge, head to Spanjer en van Twist, which holds the most coveted front row seats in town. You’ll find yourself seated roughly a metre from the water. Sip a coffee, savour an apple cake and ponder the boats bobbing past on the Leliegracht.

Sand and the City
If Ibiza is out of your price range this summer, then book a flight to Amsterdam instead and hit a city beach bar, where you can join Amsterdammers lolling about in the sun then partying the night away – all within view of the local waterways. Dig your toes in the sand and groove to tunes at Blijburg in the city’s IJburg suburb. Or enjoy a cocktail under the palm trees at Strand West – a convenient short trip from the central train station.

Travel on the Canal Buses
If only one image stays with you forever after your trip to Amsterdam, let it be relaxing on a boat with the sun warming your face. Onboard the Canal Bus, actually a fleet of glass- and open-topped boats, you can cruise on vessels throughout the city’s capillary network of canals. Bonus: hop-on and hop-off as you please.

Get on Your Canal Bike
Explore the canals yourself at water level in a pedal-powered canal bike. Splash around with friends in the four-seater as you explore Amsterdam’s waterways at your leisure. Keep clear of the bigger boats and you’ll be just fine! And don’t forget, of course, that getting a little wet is all part of the fun.

However you choose to enjoy the Dutch capital’s canals – whether dining by the water, taking a relaxing boat ride, or even watching a floating concert – you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Book your flights to Amsterdam now and get ready to experience the capital’s famous – and now award-winning – 17th-century waterways.

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