Things to see in Amsterdam

Housed in the historic Amstelhof along the banks of the Amstel River, this majestic museum is a sibling of its namesake in St Petersburg. Amsterdam has had a close connection to the Russian city since Tsar Peter took residence here and the main permanent collection focuses on artistic and cultural links between Russia and the Netherlands. Meanwhile, holdings from St Petersburg form the basis for such scintillating temporary exhibitions as the tableware of the Tsars and treasures from the Silk Road. There is also a section on the heritage of the museum’s historic home, and the Hermitage hosts fun and innovative children’s art workshops.

Daily 1000-1700.

Yes

Established in 1885, the museum showcases a collection of masterpieces with the seminal works of Dutch giants Rembrandt (‘The Night Watch’) and Johannes Vermeer (‘The Milk Maid’). The collection spanning over 8,000 works has been reorganised across three floors in chronological order with clever use of lighting and space, showcases made with non-reflecting glass and muted grey walls to minimise distraction from the galleries. Restored to its former glory with modern aesthetics, this ranks as one of the world's greatest museums.

Daily 0900-1700.

Yes

Of enduring interest to all is the historic home where Anne Frank, her family and four other Jewish people hid from the occupying Germans during WWII, after fleeing their native Germany. Finally caught by the Nazis after two years in hiding, they were taken off to concentration camps, where Anne eventually died. However, her father survived and published her diary, which takes pride of place here. Photos, documents and the family’s possessions serve as poignant evidence of the events described, which continue to resonate in the hearts and minds of Dutch citizens. Please note that it is no longer possible to buy tickets at the museum entrance; all pictures must be purchased online at annefrank.org.

See website for opening times.

Yes.

Easily the world’s largest collection by the renowned artist, this much-visited museum houses 200 paintings by the Dutch master, many of which come from the collection of his brother Theo. The ground floor has an overview of Van Gogh’s career, while the upper three floors are devoted to the different periods of the artist’s work, from early portraits of the Dutch underclass to the luminous landscapes of Auvers. The collection is liberally interspersed with paintings by his influences and contemporaries, such as Toulouse-Lautrec and Gauguin. Art workshops for children are offered and on Friday nights museum-goers can unwind until 2200 with cocktails and special DJ programmes.

Sat-Thur 0900-1700, Fri 0900-2100.

Yes.

This museum, a charming three-storey house built in the early 17th century, is where the painter Rembrandt lived for nearly 20 years. It is home to a comprehensive collection of 250 of the artist's etchings and self-portraits. Many visitors find the odds and ends that he accumulated during his lifetime, such as Roman busts and turtle shells, every bit as colourful and illuminating as his paintings. The work of Rembrandt's teachers and students is also on display, which adds depth and dialogue to the master’s own labours.

Daily 1000-1800.

Yes.

Just a short walk from Leidseplein, the sprawling Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s ‘green lung’. Named after a celebrated 17th-century poet, Joost van den Vondel (whose statue stands at the east end), the 49-hectare (120 acre) park makes a splendid retreat with ponds, gardens, lakes, playgrounds, a skating rink and a resident colony of parakeets. Paths wind through the varied landscape, inviting you to stroll or cycle in endless loops. Visitors can take a break at the delightful Blue Teahouse, an octagonal structure built in the 1930s, with a brilliant top terrace. During summer, there are regular free concerts in the bandstand and palm readers and buskers sporadically provide entertainment. In good weather, the lawns are taken over by groups barbecuing.

Daily 24 hours.

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