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. Read on from Part One in this guide to the greatest cafes in the city…

Stone’s Corner

Choose from two locations in the Red Light District: the first is large and barlike, whereas the second is smaller and more stylish, rather like a lounge. This is another great spot for people watching, since it has huge glass windows facing out into a busy pedestrian street.

Homegrown Fantasy

With a bit of a modern art museum vibe, this is an unusual but charming place. While easy to miss if you don’t know where it is, inside it is roomy and comfortable. This is a fairly well-kept secret, located in a not particularly touristy street that is however easily accessible from either Centraal Station or Dam Square. One of a kind and well worth the visit!

Baba

A great little shop with lovely views out across the Warmeostraat in the Red Light District. They open at appoximately 8am and close at 1am each night. If you’re not a huge fan of trance or house music, maybe this won’t be your cup of tea, but for those who love it, it’s paradise.

Hill Street Blues

If Baba happens to be packed, no problem, because this place is only about 30 seconds down the road. It’s a great place to sit and relax, particularly as the back room has such lovely views over the Centraal Station harbour. If you feel like a game of pool, head down to the games room downstairs.

Tops Coffeeshop

A bit out of the way, but well worth it! The staff are usually very friendly and helpful, the sound system is good, food and drink are great and best of all, you have a fanstic view over the Prinsengracht. During summer the front doors open up and the outdoor seating imparts a glorious summery atmosphere.