Walking is the best way to appreciate the city's relaxed rhythm. When you look at an Amsterdam map, you may think the city's too large to explore on foot. Not true: It's possible to see almost every important sight on a 4-hour walk. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as those charming cobbles get under your soles and on your nerves after a time; leave thin-soled shoes and boots at home.
When walking, remember that cars have the right of way when turning. Don't step in front of one thinking it's going to stop for you. And be aware that many drivers consider road signs and red stoplights to be not much more than occasionally useful suggestions. When crossing a street, watch out for trams, buses, even bikes. Look both ways before crossing a dedicated bike lane -- some pedalers get unreasonably irritated if you force them to crash into you.
Kids are irresistibly attracted to water, so watch out for them near any of Amsterdam's 160 canals. Protective fencing rarely exists and the low metal railings meant to keep cars from rolling into the water are ideally positioned for small feet to stumble over.
Urban Minefield -- In a city with so many high and varied gables, there's a temptation to walk along gazing upward. Be careful: There's the possibility you'll walk straight into a canal, but that's a minor danger compared to the one underfoot. Many Amsterdammers have dogs, some of them the size of Shetland ponies. Signs on the sidewalk saying HOND IN DE GOOT (DOG IN THE GUTTER) are mostly ignored. Take your eye off the ground for so much as an instant and you might regret it.
