Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in the world. I've visited three or four times now. The city is often compared to Venice, Italy which I visited before I came to Amsterdam for the first time. Venice is beautiful but just doesn't have the character of Amsterdam in my opinion. Part of it is due to the fact that most of the regular citizens have moved out of Venice now because of the high cost of living there and getting goods and services in and out.
When you arrive into Amsterdam one of the first things you'll want to do is purchase a public transit pass for use on the trams and buses. The easiest place to do so is at the transit office outside Centraal Station. Most coming into Amsterdam arrive first at Schipol Airport and then take the train into the city. It's really easy since the train station is right underneath the airport.
There are a few things that should be high on your to do list in Amsterdam. One of those is taking a boat tour around the canals. The city has an incredible number of canals and bridges. You can do a day tour or a night tour which can be quite romantic if you combine it with an on board dinner. Another thing that should be very high on your must do list is a visit to the Anne Frank House. Most everyone in the world has read Anne Frank's Diary, most often in school in history class. To see it in person is so touching and well worth the visit. It's easiest to purchase tickets online. Saves time. Museum hopping is also a fun option. One my my personal favorites is the Van Gogh Museum. It contains a lot of beautiful works from the artist. There are a lot of small museums, some a bit touristy, others not so much. While you are in Amsterdam do take the time to visit the Red Light District. Many in the Netherlands and Amsterdam in particular have a very tolerant attitude about prostitution. You'll notice as you wander about the city the many coffee shops that sell marijuana. Smoking marijuana isn't permitted on the streets but is allowed in coffee shops and in private residences. Each coffee shop is allowed to sell a certain amount of marijuana to an individual each day.
Helpful links:
Wonderful Amsterdam
Amsterdam Information

Outside of the Anne Frank House

One of Amsterdam's many beautiful bridges and canals.

A canal near the Red Light District in Amsterdam

another beautiful canal