One day in Amsterdam

Q: I will be in Amsterdam for a full day at the end of May. What do you recommend I see/do in so short a time? Regards Diana Jones

A: The important thing is not to rush around trying to see as much as you can, as you'll miss out on the relaxed atmosphere of this lovely city. I would start off with a leisurely canal boat cruise, which is the easiest way to take in the city's marvellous architecture. You can catch one near the main railway station. You'll learn that the city actually has more canals that Venice.

The four attractions that most people regard as "absolute musts" are the Rijks Museum, the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House and the Sex Museum. You could try to squeeze them all in, but I would opt for a chance to see Rembrandt's The Nightwatch at the Rijks Museum and then visit Anne Frank House. Have a beer at one of the pavement pubs or one of the notorious "brown cafe's". If there's time for an early dinner, enjoy a "rijsttafel" meal, which are widely advertised at the more traditional restaurants.

And, depending on the time of your departure, you may just be able to take a stroll through the red light district just to say you've done it.