Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. The Nine Streets are just that: nine little streets and alleys in the heart of the historic canal district which, together, form a square-shaped shopping area stretching from the Singel to the Prinsengracht. They encompass: Reestraat, Hartenstraat, Gasthuis Molensteeg, Berenstraat, Wolvenstraat, Oude Spiegelstraat, Runstraat, Huidenstraat and Wijde Heisteeg. Brimming with charm, they are filled with speciality stores that purvey everything from vintage clothing and retro 1950s toasters to toothbrushes and candles galore. A wealth of coveted designer boutiques also congregate along here. It's ideal for present-hunting for others or treating yourself to a pair of unique new shoes. Dotted along the way are plenty of places to enjoy a cup of coffee, cake or a healthy lunch. Beats malls any day.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. This narrow pedestrianised street runs between Dam square and the Muntplein (where the Kalvertoren shopping center can be found), and is probably Amsterdam's busiest commercial shopping area. Along here, you'll come across pop music stores, fashion stores and shoe stores; the Bodyshop and English-language bookstore, Waterstone's, are also along this stretch. If you feel your sugar levels plunge along with your bank account, head to Australian Homemade on the corner where the street meets Spui for delicious chocolate or ice cream. Or put your feet up with something more substantial on the Spui square where a local book market sets up every Friday and (from March to December) also the site of an art market on Sunday.

 

Description: MUSEUM QUARTER / VONDELPARK. This street, along with Van Baerlestraat and Beethovenstraat, comprises some of Amsterdam's most upscale shopping. Along PC Hooftstraat, you'll find a number of the world's top names in fashion and accessories. Along with men's and women's clothing, there are also venues for jewelry, shoes and the like. Among the more recognizable names are Hugo Boss and Calvin Klein.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. Beginning near the Rijksmuseum, this fashionable district is arguably the city's best destination for antiques and art. Upscale shops line the streets, offering everything from sculpture and porcelain to high-quality furniture and other decorative goods. Many of the pieces are one-of-a-kind and make ideal mementos of time spent in the Netherlands. Give yourself some time for browsing; you won't want to miss everything that's available.