Amsterdam's most notable department store has a great household goods department and a decent mix of clothing (designer and own-label), kids' wear, jewellery, cosmetics, shoes...

Kites, kites and yet more kites - well, you've got to do something with all the Dutch wind. Also a quirky array of boomerangs, yo-yos and kaleidoscopes can be found at this...

Broken Barbies and battered bears are restored to health by Mr Kramer, a doctor for old-fashioned dolls and teddies who has practised here for 25 years. In the same shop,...

Metz is wonderful for upmarket gifts: designer furniture, glass and opulent accessories are all available. For lunch with a view, make for the top-floor restaurant designed by...

Budding Kasparovs take note: this is the place to come to for a glorious selection of chess sets, from African to ultra-modern examples.

DIY kits and a ready-made parade that includes electric trains, modern and vintage vehicles and some truly adorable and intimate dolls' houses.