Amsterdam attractions: 8 places to see

During your stay in Amsterdam, you may wish to see the city's attractions.

Today, I'm taking you on a tour of Amsterdam's best places.

Amsterdam attractions: article summary

Amsterdam attractions: see the art collections at the Rijksmuseum

One of Amsterdam's most popular attractions, and certainly its most important art repository, is the Rijksmuseum. Founded in 1798, it houses the country's immense collection of rare art and antiques.

The museum's impressive collection includes one million cultural artifacts dating from the 13th century to the present day. More than 8,000 important paintings are spread across the 250 rooms of this sprawling building.

In addition to his paintings, the Rijksmuseum has a library of over 35,000 books and manuscripts. There are also many fascinating exhibitions dealing with the development of art and culture in the Netherlands.

Visit Anne Frank's house

On the Prinsengracht stands Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis). Dedicated to the all-too-short life of one of the world's best-known Holocaust victims. This is the actual house in which Anne's family hid for much of the Second World War.

The Frank family were Jewish refugees from the German city of Frankfurt. It was here that Anne wrote the diary that became an international bestseller after the war. It was published just a few years after his death.

Much of the house has been preserved as it was in Anne's time. It serves as a poignant monument to a tragic period in history.

Amsterdam attractions: discover the Van Gogh Museum

A must-see for art lovers and historians alike, the spectacular Van Gogh museum has been one of Amsterdam's main attractions since it opened in 1972. Dedicated to the often troubled life and extraordinary art of one of the country's most revered painters.

The Rietveld-designed structure houses the world's largest collection of Van Gogh's paintings and artifacts. Much of it was donated by his brother, Theo, and other family members.

Rich in 200 impressive paintings, 500 engravings and drawings, plus 700 letters to friends and familyThe collection is divided into key periods in the artist's life: his realist works (1880 to 1887), including the famous The Potato Eaters, and his impressionist period from 1887 to 1890, which saw the creation of perhaps his best-known work: The Sunflowers.

One of the highlights of a visit is the incredible "Van Gogh Experience", a fascinating multimedia presentation of the painter's life through digital reproductions of his work.

Explore the Jordaan district

Jordaan is Amsterdam's most popular district. It's well known for its mix of residential areas with gardens, bustling markets and upscale boutiques and restaurants. The area is also home to many fun activities, from a pleasant stroll through the many picturesque streets to visits to the many tourist attractions.

Although best known as the site of Anne Frank's home, the region is also home to lesser-known treasures such as the Woonboots Museum, a floating museum dedicated to barges and the interesting Amsterdam Cheese Museum.

On Saturday mornings, Lindengracht transforms into a huge open-air market, where you can find local crafts, produce, flowers and treats perfect for filling your picnic basket.

Amsterdam attractions: family fun at Vondelpark

Amsterdam's largest and most visited park, Vondelpark occupies 120 acres and contains an infinite number of fun things to do. In addition to stretches of green space dotted with peaceful ponds. Criss-crossed by vast paths, the park is home to a beautiful rose garden with over 70 different types of flowers.

It also boasts a variety of sculptures and statues, playgrounds and other leisure facilities.

If you haven't packed a picnic, don't worry: the park is also full of cafés where you can enjoy a delicious meal. enjoy a snack or a full meal.

Visit Amsterdam's Royal Palace

Formerly the Town Hall, the Amsterdam Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis van Amsterdam) serves as the King's residence when he is in the city. Its construction was a monumental task when it began in 1648. It required the installation of 13,659 piles to support the gigantic structure.

Based on the architecture of ancient Rome, the exterior is strictly classical, while the interior is magnificently furnished, its apartments decorated with a multitude of reliefs, ornaments, marble sculptures and friezes.

Other highlights include one of the finest furniture collections in the world and the City Treasurer's Hall, with its marble fireplace and ceilings painted by Cornelis Holsteyn. You'll also see the aldermen's hall, containing paintings by Bol and Flinck.

The largest room is the Council Chamber, sumptuously decorated and one of the most beautiful ceremonial halls in Europe.

Amsterdam attractions: Westerkerk

Located next to the Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam's West Church (Westerkerk) is one of the most popular churches to visit in the city. It's certainly one of the most picturesque.

Completed in 1630, this pretty Renaissance church is distinguished by its many Gothic features inside and out. Its 85-meter tower, popularly known as "Langer Jan" (Big John), is the tallest in the city.

At the top of the spire is a large replica of the Emperor's Crown, placed in memory of Emperor Maximilian of Austria. Inside the tower, a chime rings out the hours.

Other highlights include a fine organ dating from 1622, and an interesting marble column placed here in 1906 in memory of Rembrandt.

The Rembrandt House Museum

Rembrandt, with his wife Saskia, spent the happiest years of his life in his house on Jodenbreestraat. Today, it houses Rembrandt House Museum (Museum Het Rembrandthuis).

It was here, in the Jewish quarter, that he found models for his biblical themes and painted the views of his many outings along the canals.

Rembrandt lived here for 20 years. The house has been furnished in 17th-century style, with many engravings and personal objects.

There are many attractions in Amsterdam. However, if you don't have a lot of time, I recommend you see the ones I've presented to you today.

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