Netherlands: Amsterdam Historic Center
Score: 71

This agreeable city, which manages to be both urbane and relaxed, has gained significantly since first ranked in 2004. Our travel experts applaud it for being "environmentally aware" and one of the most pleasantly walkable cities in the world. "Bravo to the Dutch for doing a great job of maintaining their historic core."

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"Well-preserved historic city that is simultaneously a world city, knowledge hub, commercial emporium, and international port. Buildings are well conserved and presented, yet the services are ultra modern and efficient. Very good urban management and control by Erfgoed Nederland, and inputs by NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) can be experienced everywhere. The Dutch understand how to balance the commercial aspects of heritage with authenticity and integrity."

"Wonderful city that is easy to explore without an automobile. The aesthetic appeal of walking or biking along busy canals and past tall historic buildings, and visiting first-class museums within steps of each other is hard to beat."

"A cultural capital of Europe. Different and daring. Example of a vibrant, progressive, living city. Not for the faint-hearted purist who cannot handle the red-light district."

"Historic center gives little exposure to the Dutch or the living Dutch culture. One, however, need not wander too far from the historic center to find real neighborhoods."