Description: DE PIJP. Bustling, vibrant, and a great source of local color, this century-old street market is a visual extravaganza. Not really frequented by visitors, it offers (both in stalls and on the sidewalk) a legion of goods, including ethnic foods, textiles, fresh produce, flowers, meats, and practically anything else imaginable. More than 250 vendors ply their wares to townsfolk, and you'll encounter folks of all nationalities and origins while you browse. Hours vary depending on weather, and most of the action takes place between Van Woustraat and Ferdinand Bolstraat.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Secreted away in the midst of the city is this enclosed courtyard, ringed by a series of white-trimmed, brick dwellings. The peaceful enclave was, in former centuries, home to a community of religious women (although not nuns) who supported the church with their charitable endeavors. This cluster of buildings was their domain, the area from which they provided succor and devoted their lives from the 14th century until 1971, when the last of the order expired. The secluded area offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect, to pause, and to take in the area's history. Of particular note are the four panels on the pulpit of the church designed by a young Mondriaan, as well as the city's oldest wooden house (dating from 1477) at No. 34. And don't miss the 'other' church - a covert Catholic place of worship which is cleverly concealed behind the façade of a house here.

 

Description: CENTRAL CANAL RING. If you've a green thumb or just admire those who do, you'll want to visit this extravagant 'floating' market, most of which actually occupies houseboats moored on the water. Cut flowers, bulbs, potted plants and the like are all available to beautify house and office, and even if you're traveling, you'll want to pick up a bouquet to brighten your room or at least snap a few photos. Souvenirs are also available from nearby vendors if you want to pick up a clog or two for the folks back home. Located between the Koningsplein and the Muntplein.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. Thousands of folks marvel annually at this well-known attraction's realistic creations, modeled after modern-day celebrities and historical figures. The wax semblances are grouped across three floors in such vignettes as Holland's Golden Age, the Music Zone, TV Studio Backstage, and Sport Gallery. Videos and appropriate settings also place the figures in context and provide an additional measure of entertainment. Among the personalities you'll encounter are Rembrandt, David Bowie, Albert Einstein, Anne Frank and Barack Obama.

 

Description: OLD CENTER / RED LIGHT DISTRICT. On the site of a once-thriving Jewish market which ceased trading during World War Two, this sprawling flea market now occupies this enormous square. Coveted by locals but aimed at tourists, all manner of things are purveyed from trendy new club gear to second-hand clothing (including vintage gems and army surplus), bicycle parts, electrical goods, jewelery and books. And, of course, there's the obligatory box of cheap vinyl records, broken lampshade and scruffy sofa (much of which is abandoned by the sellers at the end of the day). Note the market closes a little earlier on cold winter days, and won't open on especially blustery days.