Amsterdam is a fantastic, vibrant city and is also the capital of the Netherlands. While it has gained notoriety for its marijuana cafes and lax stance on prostitution, it is also one of the oldest cities in Europe and boasts a huge amount of culture. One of the best things you can do while there is head on down to one or two of the famous coffee houses for a hit of culture, great food and drink and people watching.
Abraxis
Hidden in a tiny alley near the Dam Square, this coffee house has three gorgeous wood-paneled floors to hang out in. If you head up to the top small, you will find it decorated with live marijuana plants, which can be a thrill to newcomers. The ambiance is lovely and the view from the top is wonderful. If you’re not afraid of heights, skip up to the top floor and look down through the glass partition all the way down to the ground floor! » Read more: Five Great Coffee Houses and Cafes in Amsterdam