Lonely Planet Amsterdam (Paperback)

~ (Author), Nikki Hall (Author) "The oldest archaeological finds in Amster date from Roman times, when the IJ (pronounced as the 'ey' in 'they'), an arm of the shallow Zuiderzee..." (more)
Key Phrases: canal belt, bulb fields, canal houses, Centraal Station, Dam Square, Amsterdam School (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Most people don't know it, but they're attracted to Amsterdam because it is gezellig. As the author of Lonely Planet's first guide to this human-scaled city explains, "The phrase 'cosmopolitan melting-pot' is often used carelessly for cities around the world but it is particularly appropriate for Amsterdam, which has traditionally enticed migrants and nonconformists. Despite (or because of) this transient mix, people accept each other as they are and strive to be gezellig, a nigh-untranslatable term that means something like 'companionable,' 'chummy' or 'convivial,' a mood often experienced by people warmly chatting over a drink or two in a cozy 'brown' café."

This book offers concise and useful history and art notes, an insider's view of entertainment options (what is a brown café* anyway?), detailed walking tours, accommodation options for all traveling styles, where to eat (from Assyrian to "Za"--as in pizza), the best ways to get around, day tripping (and otherwise tripping), plus 18 full-color maps. With this guide, you won't get lost, and you will not be at a loss for something to do.

*A brown café is "stained by smoke, has sand on the wooden floor, and provides an atmosphere conducive to deep and meaningful conversation. There might be Persian rugs on the tables to soak up spilled beer." --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

Product Description

Discover the uniqueness of this picturesque and happening city with this lively guide. From the main attractions to the best local places, let us guide you to your own Amsterdam experience.

• 18 easy-to-follow and extensive maps
• entertainment and nightlife options, from brewery pubs and gay venues to jazz clubs and open-air theatre
• details on attractions and activities, including canal cruises, walking tours, galleries and parks
• extensive listings of accommodation, restaurants and coffee chops
• guide to day trips, from Edam's cheese market to the Randstad's colourful bulb fields

Product Details

• Paperback: 252 pages
• Publisher: Lonely Planet Publications; 3rd edition (March 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1740590929
• ISBN-13: 978-1740590921
• Product Dimensions: 7 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.1 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #571,320 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

  Popular in this category: (What's this?)

  #38 in

  Books > Travel > Europe > Netherlands > Amsterdam

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars From History to Hemp: a comprehensive guide, December 30, 1999

By	Gretchen Mullendore (Seattle, Washington) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Lonely Planet Amsterdam: City Guide (Paperback)

I used this Lonely Planet guide on a recent trip to Amsterdam; it was invaluable! I planned most of my excursions based on the in-depth information provided and was never led astray. I liked how the author didn't make assumptions about my personal tastes, but covered all sorts of museums and coffeeshops and shopping leaving me free to choose my path. I also appreciated the interesting history of Amsterdam included with the book and sprinkled in throughout the neighborhood descriptions. If you are a traveller that savors the anticipation of the trip, this guide provides hours of reading before you even arrive! The maps included were all I needed to navigate the city.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Functional but dry and non-comprehensive..., December 25, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Lonely Planet Amsterdam: City Guide (Paperback)

Lonely Planet guidebooks have been very helpful to me when travelling throughout Asia and Europe in the past. However, I've been reading this particular guidebook on Amsterdam to plan on a vacation, and I feel like it is lacking spirit. Also, as I am a budget traveller, it only lists like three hostels to stay at..and doesnt include much information on them at all. I am somewhat disappointed...Moon Guidebooks are more interesting and comprehensive, it seems...

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars traveling, December 19, 2000

By	"katja_r" (munich, germany) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Lonely Planet Amsterdam (Paperback)

I am on holiday in Amsterdam as I write. This book has been invaluable in my stay. I am residing at the Hotel Prinsenhof. I doubt I would have had the good fortune to find this cozy hotel without the Lonely Planet Guide. It is faithful to the Lonely Planet format, providing detailed information including address, phone and fax numbers. There are also tips which have saved me money. One was to purchase a Year Pass for the museums. I now may visit any of the major museums as often as I like, for free. I like free. ;D If you are planning a trip to Amsterdam, or would simply like to find some things you may not have tried, yet, this book will be interesting to you.