Why visit? Visit the largest art museum in the Netherlands to trace the country's history across centuries. The Rijksmuseum houses more than 8,000 works of art, including many famous pieces by celebrated Dutch Masters.

Why visit? Visit the Anne Frank House to see where the diarist Frank and her family hid from, and were ultimately captured by, Nazis during World War II. Today this museum is one of Amsterdam's top attractions.

Why visit? Explore the world's largest collection of work by artist Vincent Van Gogh at the Van Gogh Museum, which also displays many of his belongings. Other artists shown here include Claude Monet and Paul Gauguin, among others.

Why visit? Wander the Jordaan neighborhood in central Amsterdam to take in 17th-century architecture, tree-lined canals, and an abundance of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It's also home to a number of attractions, including the Anne Frank House.

Why visit? Jog, cycle, or sit down for a picnic at Vondelpark, Amsterdam's public green space popular with locals and tourists alike. The amphitheater here hosts plays and music events during the summer.

Why visit? Take in panoramic views of Amsterdam from the A'dam Lookout sky deck atop the 22-story A'dam Tower, huge by local standards. You'll also find exhibits, a gift shop, and a bar and restaurant inside the building.

Why visit? See modern and contemporary art on loan from private collectors at the Moco Museum, a compact, two-story museum housed in an old city mansion. Past exhibits have showcased works by the likes of Banksy, Salvador Dali, and Roy Lichtenstein.

Why visit? Learn about anatomy at Body Worlds, a permanent exhibition showcasing more than 200 real human bodies. The bodies are preserved using plastination, a method developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens, the scientist behind the exhibit.

Why visit? Visit the Rembrandt House Museum (Museum Het Rembrandthuis) to see where the Dutch master artist created many of his most celebrated works. This museum—located in Rembrandt's former home—displays many of the artist's personal effects.

Why visit? The centrally located ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo houses nearly 1,000 species of animals on its landscaped grounds. Take in historic architecture as you view the animals—a19th-century pub is now home to the Wolf House—and visit museums, greenhouses, and even a planetarium located on-site.

Why visit? Many inter-city trains stop at Centraal Station in Amsterdam's city center. Regardless of your travel plans, make time to stop by this imposing 19th-century neo-Rennaisance building and check out its intricately designed facade.

Why visit? Climb the narrow stairs in the Museum Our Lord in the Attic (Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder), a preserved 17th-century canal house, to discover a secret church used by Catholics during the Protestant Reformation.

Why visit? Walk the 17th-century halls at the Royal Palace Amsterdam, the former town hall and now official palace of the Dutch Royal Family. Inside, extravagant rooms and marble carvings showcase three centuries of power.

Why visit? The National Maritime Museum (Het Scheepvaartmuseum) focuses on Amsterdam's storied maritime history with paintings, model ships, artifacts, and interactive displays. Board the full-sized replica of a 1749 merchant ship to watch period actors recreate history.

Why visit? Beer lovers won’t want to miss the Heineken Experience, a self-guided tour through Heineken’s first built brewery. At the end of the tour, settle in for free samples in the tasting room.

Why visit? One of the best ways to get around Amsterdam is by using the GVB, the municipal transportation system that includes the metro, tram, bus, and ferry services. Day passes can provide value for frequent daily uses.

Why visit? Grab the kids and head to NEMO Science museum, the largest science museum in The Netherlands. After you’re done, stop by Café DEK5 on the museum’s sloping roof for views of the city.

Why visit? The Micropia museum focuses on the microscopic world, with a variety of exhibits on microorganisms and living displays of bacteria. Use the body scanner to see what’s on your body in real time.

Why visit? The seven-story OBA Library of Amsterdam offers more than just books, with regular art exhibits and public lectures. Head to the top floor to check out the views of the city from the library's restaurant.

Why visit? The Begijnhof is a Catholic complex dating to the 14th century, making it among the oldest residences in the city. Visit the grounds and churches for a tranquil way to take in classic Amsterdam architecture.

Why visit? In the heart of Amsterdam, the historic Dam Square offers attractions and people watching. It's surrounded by historic buildings, including the Royal Palace Amsterdam and Niewe Kirk; the National Monument sits on its eastern end.

Why visit? Check out soccer matches and other sporting and music events at Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam's main arena and home to the AFC Ajax soccer club. True fans won't want to miss a behind-the-scenes tour.

Why visit? Learn about the Resistance movement in Amsterdam at Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam, which examines five years of Nazi occupation in the city. Exhibits feature a variety of artifacts from the era, including propaganda posters and newspaper clippings.