Taco Dibbits

We just named Amsterdam the fifth best city in the world, based on the results of our annual Time Out Index survey. And so who better to tell us why ‘Dam is so hot right now than Taco Dibbits, director of the world-famous Rijksmuseum? From its progressive politics to its dazzling art scene, he tells us why he loves his home city. Amsterdam’s a tolerant, progressive city ‘Since the sixteenth century Amsterdam has welcomed immigrants and, along with them, their many cultures and beliefs. Nowadays, Amsterdammers work hard on upholding and redefining tolerance as one of the city’s essential values.’ You can walk or get around by bike ‘It’s beautiful, vibrant and bustling, but it’s also very approachable and relaxed. Because it’s small, you can visit everything on foot and by bike, and there’s always something going on or somewhere to explore.’ It comes into its own in summer ‘With summer getting into full swing, there are so many great exhibitions, concerts and special events lined up. Think cinema under the stars, nights in the Botanical Gardens and concerts at Artis Zoo and on the canals during Grachtenfestival.’ Noordermarkt. Photograph: Picture Partners / Shutterstock.com The food scene is popping off ‘On Saturday mornings I get fresh organic products from Noordermarkt. And while one never previously thought of Amsterdam as a city of restaurants and great food, this has changed radically – there are now so many great places worth trying. Dine at RIJKS, our Michelin-star res