The Amsterdam canals are nominated for Urban Wonders of the World, and inspired by that special feature at UCityGuides.com, we’re bringing you a special photo report highlighting the seven most wonderful urban attractions of the Dutch capital (the 7 Urban Wonders results will be announced in July).

1. PRINSENGRACHT

Strolling down this canal/street is walking past Amsterdam’s most attractive buildings. These flawlessly-preserved houses are high-ceilinged apartments with minimal decor, home to the professionals and hipsters who can afford them. At number 267 is the most famous house of all, the Ann Frank House. It’s a museum telling the young Jewish girl’s famous story though videos and objects left behind (including the original diary), and there’s also a related shop in a well-executed 1999 extension.

2. PC HOOFTSTRAAT AND CORNELIS SCHUYTSTRAAT

Shopping in Amsterdam is one of the city’s most enjoyable attractions, especially at its Bloemenmarkt flower market and Albert Cuypmarket. After that, it’s OK to skip the chain stores and crowds down the Kalverstraat shopping street and instead head to PC Hooftstraat and Cornelis Schuytstraat. They’re found not far from the city’s main museums, and offer the best window-shopping and boutiques. On PC Hooftstraat you’ll find the international luxury brands together with other less-known names, while at Cornelis Schuytstraat nearby you’ll see the more interesting Dutch brands and a number of one-of-a-kind boutiques (we also love the Boekhandel Mulder book shop which has been at this address since 1931).

3. Van Gogh Museum

A visit to the Van Gogh Museum starts with a tour of the permanent collection’s masterpieces and ends with temporary exhibitions in a separate building. That second wing is accessed through the interior of the main museum, and was designed by Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa. It opened in 1999 and has become a much-photographed building between a visit to the exhibitions inside and the Rijksmuseum nearby.

4. Rijksmuseum

The Dutch Golden Age treasures are on display in a 19th century building that is currently going through a decade-long renovation period. Among the many masterpieces is Rembrandt’s famous “The Night Watch”, while outside is the IAmsterdam sign that’s become quite a crowd-pleaser and one of the most photographed icons in the city.

5. NEMO

This Renzo Piano building is one of Amsterdam’s main modern landmarks. It’s a science museum resembling a ship that’s especially popular in the summer months when its roof becomes a beach. Sure there’s no ocean to swim in, but lounging on the colorful deckchairs under a parasol while sipping a smoothie here is one of the best ways to get a tan in this city. The building opened in 1997 and also offers a good city view at any time of the year, so finding NEMO is a must every time you’re in town.

6. WALEM

If you only have time for one meal in Amsterdam, this is the place to go. It’s a cafe that’s been serving some excellent light meals since 1984 and remains one of the hippest hangouts today! The tables by the canal are quite tempting, but just as attractive are the backyard seats (open only when weather permits) as well as the spacious interior. It has a cool laid-back yet stylish atmosphere, and we find ourselves returning at any time of the day, from brunch to dinner. We especially love the sandwiches, washed down with delicious smoothies. If you pass by at night you’ll also find a good selection of cocktails and drinks.

7. Morlang

Even if the sun is not out, sit at one of the outdoor tables at this canalside cafe. It’s right next door to Walem mentioned above, in the city’s most attractive canal (see above). The number of beverages to accompany your light meals during the day is not very big, but the post-dinner alcoholic drinks are quite varied. Don’t be disappointed if the tables outside are all taken because you’ll also enjoy the pleasant interior. Even if you choose to dine elsewhere, pass by at night for drinks among the attractive crowds.

-See the complete Amsterdam city guide.
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