Art in the District

Amsterdam lies on the banks of two bodies of water, the IJ bay and the Amstel river. Amsterdam has one of the largest historic city centres in Europe, that dates largely from the 17th century.

Many fine houses and mansions are situated along the canals; most are lived in, others are now offices, and some are public buildings. Some of the narrow brick houses are gradually sinking because they are built on wooden piles to cope with the marshy subsoil.

If visiting the red-light district in Amsterdam, be aware of the common presence of drugs and don't be surprised if you get offered some.