Amsterdam: a city that surprises first-time travelers and longtime visitors alike.

At first glance, horseshoe-shaped Amsterdam is a breeze to circumnavigate, and its offerings are seemingly obvious. But look closely, and you'll find hidden pockets in the maze of canals and burgeoning neighborhoods that are a quick pedal from the city center.

This archetype of liberalism and diversity is forever reinventing itself. The Monocle Travel Guide to Amsterdam is an ode to this vibrant European metropolis, featuring all (well, as many as we could fit in) of our favorite haunts. We'll lead you through the cobbled streets to the best independent retailers, recommend restaurants that cater to every craving, and spotlight the coziest Bruine cafés for a beer or two. We'll take you on a tour of the Dutch masters and the works of subsequent generations of artists and steer you towards a fetching mix of classical and contemporary architecture inhabiting the waterside landscape.