Many people don’t realise just how compact and small of a city Amsterdam is. Not only that, but the network of canals that covers the city looks out across some of the world’s leading museums. UNESCO listed Amsterdam on its World Heritage List in 2010, which gives you an idea of just how beautiful the city is. Here is a guide to some of the most popular tourist attractions for you to explore in Amsterdam.
Rijksmuseum
Closed for over a decade for renovation, the Rijksmuseum has finally reopened its door and is once again the Dutch national treasure house of art.
The museum is home to some masterpieces from the Golden Age, paintings by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and plenty more are on display amongst the centuries old furniture, costumes and jewellery. There is also a newly opened Asian collection and these new acquisitions help bring the displays right up the present day.
Van Gogh Museum
Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most well known names in contemporary culture and this museum details his story and his work. Housing over 200 paintings and 550 sketches from the great artist makes this the largest collection of his work in the world.
Along with his permanent display of work in the museum, there are often temporary exhibitions of works from his fellow artists which are well worth exploring. There are also letters from Van Gogh to his family, friends and supposed lovers.
Anne Frank House
One of the most endearing stories from World War II is the young Anne Frank hiding from the Nazis. Her house is based in the centre of the city and is also the hiding place where she wrote her famous diary. Having a look at the few empty rooms and remembering that two families lived here for two years will make a lasting impression you. The original of Anne Frank’s diary is on display in the permanent exhibition housed here.
Canal Tour
While it may seem like the most obvious thing for every tourist to do, a cruise along the canal is still worthwhile. Sailing along the waters on your glass roofed boat offers you a brilliant and alternative view of the city’s historic and beautiful buildings. You will see plenty of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions from a different viewpoint and you will appreciate the compactness of the city much more after you leave your boat.
Tassenmuseum
Translated into English, the Museum of Handbags and Purses may seem like a slightly frivolous trip and perhaps even a waste of money. However, the museum is well worth a trip as it houses an impressive collection dating back to the early 17th century.
From leather pouches all the way up to modern day bags made by Gucci and Prada, the museum has a world class collection of interesting bags. Even before you enter the museum, you can admire the beautiful building it is housed in as it was once a canal house and still has its old charm.