They say every good thing has to end, and that included our fabulous Rhine River cruise. Many of our shipmates headed straight to the airport but, as a world-class city in its own right, we figured Amsterdam deserved at least a little attention before we headed to the City of Lights. Okay, it was only a single day but still, it was better than nothing, right?

Amsterdam is the ideal place for a one of a kind city trip.There is so much to see and do, plus the city’s history (dating back to the 13th century), tolerant culture and ethnic diversity top off a truly unique experience. This 2 days in Amsterdam itinerary includes - among other things - some of the world-renown museums located in the historic heart of the city, walks among traditional narrow houses and courtyards, plus my pick of popular and trendy areas to grab a bite or a drink.

There is something secretive about the taste of the world’s best beers and certainly Heineken pilsner belongs to this group. The brewery was established in Amsterdam in 1864 and today Heineken is a huge multinational company, one of the three largest beer producers in the world. Throughout its history, Heineken remained by and large family company, with Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken as its biggest stockholder and her husband Michel on the company’s board. Heineken rich and successful history has been presented in their old defunct brewery in Amsterdam, with several amusement park attractions added to the exhibit and renamed as Amsterdam Heineken Experience.

De Wallen is the medieval city center, crossed by canals and narrow alleys lined with old-school bars. Surrounded by the neon-lit red-light district, the Oude Kerk is a centuries-old former church hosting cultural events. Similarly, the old red-brick stock exchange, Beurs van Berlage, now presents exhibitions and concerts. Also checkout the trending travel itineraries across the world and pack your bags.

Alongside wooden clogs, windmills, and tulips, the Amsterdam Canals spring to mind when anyone mentions Holland. A canal cruise along the Amsterdam Canals is undoubtedly the number one attraction and for first time visitors like me, a canal cruise is a great introduction to the city. The Amsterdam Canals also celebrate their 400th birthday in 2013 and many special events and festivals are helping the city celebrate.

"The cheaper the transport, the more money you make. From Amsterdam, it can be carried again by barge to places such as Hamburg, Lubeck, Copenhagen or London. We are at the center of a vast trading web."