Amsterdam is a city made for exploring. With its compact neighbourhoods and convenient transport network it's easy to make the most of the city's delights even if you're short on time. Take a flight to Amsterdam to discover more about this exciting city. Here are some top tips for enjoying a whirlwind 24 hour trip.

Morning

Upon arrival in the Dutch capital, head to Anne Frank's secret annex in the Western Canal Belt. Whether you know about her history or not, this is a humbling experience that should be had by every visitor to Amsterdam. Take a look at the sparse annex where the teenager, her family and another family, hid for two years. Morning is the best time to visit as there are generally fewer crowds.

Shopping in Amsterdam is a treat as the city boasts a range of unique boutiques and markets. Take a stroll through the Negen Straatjes - nine criss-crossed lanes in the Western Canal Belt packed with craft shops, thrift stores and more. Or if it's a market you're after, pop over to Albert Cuyp Market in Dep Pip, Amsterdam's biggest and most popular. Known for its multicultural atmosphere and variety of products, you can sample Dutch cheeses, Middle Eastern herbs and even rummage around for vintage clothes.

Afternoon

A leisurely stroll through Vondelpark is a great way to spend the afternoon. A favourite with the locals, it is a myriad of green spaces, ribbon shaped ponds and winding foot and bike paths. Whilst there, you must stop for a slice of appeltart at the park's grandly designed Blauwe Theehuis. Resembling a giant blue spaceship, the inside of the cafe is wood-lined and ideal for an indulgent cake...or two!

Although much of the Rijksmuseum is closed for renovations at the moment (expected to reopen fully in 2013), visitors can still access the Philips Wing and its impressive display of 200 masterpieces. Among the 17th-century art you'll see big-hits like Rembrandt's The Night Watch and Vermeer's The Milkmaid. You can easily browse the collection in about an hour - so you won't suffer from museum burn-out.

Meal times

Make sure not to eat too much before you catch your flight to the Amsterdam, because the city boasts some truly delicious cuisine. Whether its Dutch pancakes, served sweet with sugar and lemon or savoury with salmon and crme fraiche; or sampling the city's strong Middle Eastern vibe with sticky baklava and rich, caramelised aubergine, you'll love nothing more than stopping for a bite to eat in the city.

Top tips

Squeezing your visit to the Dutch capital into 24 hours is possible, as long as you do your homework before catching your flight to Amsterdam. Buy advance tickets for popular attractions, carry a map with you at all times (it's easy to get lost) and look into hiring a bike - not only is this good exercise, it's a speedy way to get around the city too.