Once home to the city’s many trams, today De Hallen in the historic Amsterdam West district is a diverse and self-consciously hip cultural hub. The erstwhile depot has shed its unglamorous past to become the go-to place for everything from bicycle repairs to haircuts. There’s numerous independent stores, galleries and eateries too, including Halte 3 and Remise 47, but don’t miss the chance to explore the indoor market, Foodhallen, or the Local Goods Market at the weekend.

Crowning it all is the boutique Hotel De Hallen, which – much like the rest of the site – has turned the site’s industrial heritage to its design advantage. Think exposed brick, high ceilings and steel, offset by contemporary art and Scandinavian furniture.