Amsterdam: a city that surprises first-time travellers and longtime visitors alike. At first glance, horseshoe-shaped Amsterdam is a breeze to circumnavigate and its offerings seemingly obvious. But look closely and you'll find hidden pockets in the maze of canals and burgeoning neighbourhoods that are a quick pedal from the city centre. 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 favourite haunts. We'll lead you through the cobbled streets to the best independent retailers, recommend restaurants that cater for every craving and spotlight the cosiest bruine cafés for a beer or two. We'll take you on a tour of the Dutch masters, as well as the works of subsequent generations of artists, and steer you towards a fetching mix of classical and contemporary architecture inhabiting the waterside landscape.
Amsterdam is a world leader in tech, especially when it comes to industries such as healthcare, smart agriculture and - most prominently - fintech. It ranks fourth globally in app development, hosts the world's largest AI conference and is blessed with an extensive talent pool of tech professionals. The local government has a number of initiatives designed to connect entrepreneurs and give them the tools to grow their business, including an innovative ""startup visa."" The city has even incorporated coding programs in its school system in an effort to prepare the next generation for a high tech future. Startup Guide Amsterdam is packed full of valuable resources, insight into programs and tips for new businesses. It also features interviews with some of the founders and investors who have helped make Amsterdam one of the most well-respected startup communities in Europe.
