In Belém (situated west of the city along the river) lies Lisbon’s, and possibly Portugal’s, most important historical monument. Here you can see an opulent church and cloistered garden built in the elegant Manuelian style at the beginning of the 16th century, when Portugal was a great seafaring power. Within walking distance of many other sights, the Gothic Jerónimos Monastery is a must-see on any itinerary.

The Singel Flower Market is one of Amsterdam’s most colourful attractions. The small shops are located inside a row of floating barges — a holdover from the days when the flowers arrived in Amsterdam every day from the countryside by boat. At the flower market you’ll find tulips of every colour, either in bouquets or as bulbs to plant at home. If you plan to buy bulbs to take out of the country, be sure they have a "customs cleared" stamp on the packet so you won’t have trouble at the border.

Every visitor is aware of the existence of Amsterdam's red light district, locally referred to as De Wallen. Some head there straightaway while others prefer to walk around it — the choice is yours. The truth is, you will likely end up wandering through the area simply because of its location right in the city centre. The best way to get acquainted with the city's most notorious neighbourhood and discover its stories and secrets is by joining a walking tour. Follow your guide through winding cobblestone streets and narrow alleys as you learn the history behind Amsterdam's infamous adult destination. See, along the way, oddities like the world's first condom shop, the Museum of Prostitution, as well as little-known sculptures, and sex theatres.