NEED TO KNOW

■ JOHN LAW visited Amsterdam with easyjet, who serve the city from 10 UK airports in the summer, with return flights from around £50 via easyjet.com. easyjet Holidays offer inclusive city breaks. Typical deals are £225 per person for flights with three nights room-only in July at the four-star Hotel Arena at Oosterpark. See easyjet.com/holidays.

■ For details on attractions and accommodation see iamsterdam. com or visit the I amsterdam information centres at Schiphol airport or the city’s Central station. For Haarlem information see haarlemmarketing.co.uk or visit the tourist information centre at the city’s Stadhuis (City Hall).

■ Save money on sightseeing and transport with an I Amsterdam City Card. Benefits include free entry to more than 50 museums and attractions (including in Haarlem), a free canal cruise, unlimited use of public transport, and discounts on other attractions, food and drink. A 24-hour card costs €59 and others are available for 48, 72 and 96 hours.