With canal-side boutiques, a rich tapestry of museums and a famously liberal outlook, there’s little not to love about the city of Amsterdam.

And now this bicycle-filled haven is one step nearer, thanks to the launch of a new direct Eurostar route from London.

To the cheers of wanderlusters everywhere, Eurostar is hosting two direct services a day from St Pancras International to Amsterdam city centre as early as this year.

It hopes to get the new service up and running by Christmas, the Evening Standard reports.

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That means travellers will be able to alight in the heart of the Dutch capital in just under four hours.

The start of a new e320 Eurostar train between London and Brussels this weekend has accelerated progression on the so-called “Amsterdam route”.

“The preparations for the direct connection between Amsterdam and London with Eurostar and [Dutch rail operator] NS are progressing well,” said Marjon Kaper, managing director of NS International.

The train company now hopes to take on budget airlines by offering competitive rates for the beloved city destination.

With excellent open-air markets and world-class restaurants set amid a picturesque capillary of 165 canals and bridges, Amsterdam is a city that charms at every turn.

Grab a stroopwafel (syrup waffle) as you meander its compelling line-up of contemporary art exhibitions, or make a beeline for its plethora of vintage shops, coffee cafes and bistros.

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Pop over to the hip neighbourhood of De Pijp to revel in the retro facade of Twenties movie theatre Rialto, or order a round of local craft beer at Brouwerij brewery.

No trip to Amsterdam would be complete without hiring a bike – or if you prefer, booking onto a boat – to peruse the endlessly attractive townhouses that line the city’s canals.

With affordable housing and an enviable work-life balance, Amsterdam is frequently voted one of the world’s best places to live. Its booming tech scene means job prospects are healthy, and millennials are flocking to make their home here.

But even if you don’t fancy it as your permanent base, it’s certainly worth a four-hour train ride for the weekend. Roll on, December...

Photos: iStock