Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a beautiful city featuring all the best of Europe. There is something here for every traveller: natural beauty, history, great food and shopping and convenience.

Most of the great attractions of Amsterdam are located within a 2 km radius of the city centre. This is where you will see the beautiful old-world houses lining the canals, the street markets and the many fine museums.

Among the essential museums to visit are the Anne Frank House, where the teenage diarist hid with her ill-fated family during WWII; NEMO (a science museum); the Rembrandt House; the Rijksmuseum (a world-renown art museum); and the Van Gogh museum. However, there are many other museums that are a bit more unconventional, for example the Katten Kabinet is a cat museum, started by the curator after his favourite cat died. The curator still opens the first floor of his palatial home to visitors. You can get more suggestions of place to visit from your Amsterdam Hotel.

Those who love flowers should make a point of visiting the Keukenhof Gardens. While it is only open in the spring, Keukenhof Gardens is the best place to see the brilliance of Amsterdam’s tulip industry, especially in mid-April.

Tulips are one of two symbols most identified with Amsterdam and the Netherlands. The other is the windmill. While most windmills are located outside the city, you can still see the De Gooyer windmill in town. It is now a private home but it is a well-loved landmark.

Amsterdam is well known for the open attitudes of its people, so it should be no surprise to find such attractions as the Sexmuseum, the Hash, Marihuana and Hemp museum and VodkaMuseum Amsterdam. It should be noted that prostitution is legal. Marijuana sale, possession and usage are technically illegal, but local authorities tend to look the other way.

Those travelling with children will be pleased to know that the city has 30 parks and four beaches. Of these, VondelPark is the biggest, but Amstelpark has the most activities for children, including a playground, pony rides and even a miniature train.

There are all sorts of interesting shops and street markets throughout the city. It is also very easy to get around, whether walking, biking, by canal boat or by many other types of public transportation. Those who remember reading “Hans Brinker” as children will enjoy knowing that you can indeed skate on the canals in the winter. However, it can be risky as quite often the ice is very thin.

For old world color and new age attitudes, Amsterdam is a wonderful place to visit.

Travelling with children is very enjoyable but any parent knows it can also be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you get to your destination.

1. Look for the right airline. Some airlines work to make travelling with children a lot easier: Children and their adult companions can board first and the airline may even offer children’s meals. When making your reservations, make it clear that you are travelling with children and ask what amenities are offered. Also notify the flight crew upon check-in that you may need some extra help.

2. Follow all safety regulations. Safety seat requirements change regularly. Make sure your child has the right safety seat for his or her age and weight. Be sure you know how to use it correctly.

3. Pack wisely. Your carry-on luggage should have everything you need for travelling with children: snacks (especially fluids), moist towelettes, diapers or training pants, at least one change of clothing and soft toys. Bring more than you think you need – you never know when a flight may be delayed.

4. If possible, nurse infants during takeoff and landing or let them suck on a pacifier or a bottle at those times. Doing so will help them during the changes in air pressure.

5. Be courteous – leave the annoying noisemaking toys in your checked luggage or at home. The other passengers will greatly appreciate it.

6. If you’re travelling by car, take frequent rest breaks so the children can run around and use the bathroom if needed.

7. When sightseeing, a good rule of thumb when travelling with children is to keep the trip under three hours. Be sure to bring a stroller or wagon

8. If your children are prone to motion sickness, make frequent stops and only pack non-greasy snacks. Your doctor may be able to advise you about motion sickness medicines for children.

9. At your accommodation, remove all safety hazards such as electric cords and medicines. Use safety caps or tape over all electrical outlets and door locks. Never leave a young child unattended.

10. Be patient. Travelling with children requires a little extra planning and some extra time to get to your destination but it’s worth it for the chance to see the world through their eyes.