When thinking of Amsterdam, one may be forgiven for conjuring up images of milkmaids in clogs, Edam cheese and windmills. But in fact, the Dutch city is something of a hotspot when it comes to art and historical sights. Here are some must-see museums to visit while you’re in The Dam.
Rijksmuseum – For artworks by Dutch masters
Perhaps the best-known among Amsterdam’s must-see museums, the Rijksmuseum boasts a veritable treasure trove of collective works from Dutch masters painted at the height of its artistic Dutch Golden Age. A total of 8,000 pieces are on display here, with highlights including The Night Watch by Rembrandt, The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer and The Meagre Company by Frans Hals. If you attempt a visit here, come early and head straight to the Gallery of Honour on the second floor to see these exemplary pieces.
Van Gogh Museum – For an intimate look at the artist’s works and life
Almost directly adjacent to Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh. Opened in 1973, it boasts the largest collection of the artist’s paintings and correspondences in the world. Just last year, it had over 2.3 million visitors, making it Amsterdam’s most popular museum by far. Highlights here include The Potato Eaters, Sunflowers and a series of his most well-regarded self portraits.
Anne Frank House – For the WWII history buff
The unassuming office building where Anne Frank, the famous young Jewish diarist, lived in hiding with her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, is now the home of Anne Frank House. The original annex where Frank and six other occupants resided in cramped quarters for over two years is still Here, visitors can expect a sombre exhibition on the persecution of Jews during the war, as well as the annex where Frank and six other occupants managed to live under the Nazi radar for two years.
Pro Tip: Make sure you reserve your tickets online well in advance of your trip if you want to skip the long queues at the door