Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and one of Europe's most well-known and visited cities. With its beautiful canals, historic buildings, bicycles everywhere and rich cultural life, Amsterdam has become a symbol of both Dutch history and modern lifestyle. Amsterdam is located in the western part of the Netherlands, in the province of North Holland, and has around 900,000 inhabitants. Amsterdam is famous for its unique canal system, often called the "Venice of the North". The canals were built in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age and surround the city center in concentric rings. There are more bicycles in Amsterdam than there are residents. The bicycle is the most common means of transport, and the city is equipped with bicycle paths everywhere. Despite its size, Amsterdam often feels like a small town – charming, green and easy to get around. Amsterdam is also known for its openness and tolerance. It is a city with people from all over the world, and it has long been a place for freedom and innovation. The city was among the first in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, and it has a strong tradition of art, design, and innovation.