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Amsterdam Excursions

Maastricht

Maastricht is the oldest city in the Netherlands, peacefully perching on the banks of the Maas River. It is also one of the sunnier spots, located at Holland's southernmost point, squeezed in between the Belgium and German borders. Ancient fortifications provide pleasant walking routes and some of these can be explored on the city's western outskirts. The Bonnefantenmuseum traces the city's historical roots, and makes for a good introduction to one's visit. Another must-see is the Basilica of Saint Servatius. It is a medieval cruciform basilica with a significant collection of religious artefacts as well as the burial place of Holland's first bishop. In the old centre of Maastricht is a selection of shops and department stores. Here one can also savour the fine food that Maastricht has developed a reputation for. A selection of wines from nearby vineyards can be savoured with the cuisine that has been influenced by the distinctive tastes of its neighbours. Maastricht is located 133 miles (215km) from Amsterdam.

Website: www.vvvmaastricht.nl

International Court of Justice

The Peace Palace was so named to import its significance as a place of arbitration for the maintenance and promotion of world peace. Situated in The Hague, the building houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration and The Hague Academy of International Law. It was here (in 1946) that the first session of the International Court of Justice was held. Four guided tours are conducted daily. The Hague is located approximately 35 miles (57km) from Amsterdam.

Address: Carnegieplein 2; Website: www.vredespaleis.nl; Telephone: (0)70 302 4242; Transport: Tram 10 from Hague Central or bus 24 from bus station to Vredespaleis stop; Opening time: Guided tours Monday to Friday at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm; Admission: €5 (adults) and €3 (children)

NEMO at night © Amsterdam Tourist Board

Waterland Neeltje Jans

Enjoy a whole day with marine animals, experience fantastic attractions and see and learn about the world famous Delta Works at this spectacular water park. Attractions include the storm surge barrier, Delta Expo, a waterslide and water playground, whale world exhibition and a hurricane simulator.

Address: Eiland Neeltje Jans, Faelweg 5; E-mail: info@neeltjejans.nl; Website: www.neeltjejans.nl; Telephone: (0)111 655 655; Transport: Bus 133 Connexxion (Rotterdam-Vlissingen); Opening time: Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm (winter) and daily from 10am to 5.30pm (summer); Admission: €17.50 (summer), €11.50 (winter). Concessions available

Royal Delft © www.royaldelft.com

Royal Delftware Factory

The white and blue decorative pottery, the trademark of Royal Delftware, was influenced by Chinese porcelain brought back from the east by the tradesmen of the Dutch East India Company. The Royal Delftware Factory (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles) is the only remaining earthenware factory in Delft and dates back to the 17th century. Visitors to the factory can see painting demonstrations, attend painting workshops or visit the factory's museum and showroom. Delft is 30 miles (47km) south of Amsterdam, near The Hague. There is also a showroom in Amsterdam where visitors can also view a painting demonstration and view an exhibition. The address is Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 175-179 (on the premises of Gassan Diamonds).

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, Delft; E-mail: tourism@royaldelft.com; Website: www.royaldelft.com; Telephone: +31 (0)15 251 2030; Transport: 15 to 20 minute walk from Delft Central Station; Opening time: Daily 9am to 5pm (25 March to 1 November) and Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5 pm (2 November to 24 March). Closed between Christmas and New Years Day; Admission: €4.50 (adults), children under 12 free

Heineken Experience

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience is not to be missed. After opening its doors in 2001, with Heineken Experience has been attracting international beer lovers for almost a decade. Housed in the original brewery, visitors will learn about the history of the famous Heineken Company and its unique brewing process, visit cutting edge interactive exhibits and enjoy free Heineken beer at the two pit stops along the way. Don't go away empty handed, a gift of Heineken memorabilia is given to each visitor to ensure they remember their Heineken Experience. Unfortunately the Heineken Experience is currently undergoing major renovations and is scheduled to reopen in summer 2008. The new and improved Heineken experience will include a mini brewery, a new tasting bar and an opportunity to view Heineken's iconic Shire horses.

Address: Stadhouderskade 78; Website: www.heinekenexperience.com; Telephone: +31 (0)20 523 9666; Transport: Tram number 16, 24 or 25 from Centraal Station to Stadhouderskade; Opening time: Currently closed for renovations until Summer 2008; Admission: €11 adults