If there’s a city I would consider moving to, Amsterdam would probably be it. Well known for its beautiful and intricate canal system, narrow houses and artistic heritage, the city has a lot to offer. Additionally, if you are into art and history collections, Amsterdam has some of the best pieces to see anywhere in the world. There are well over 20 museums which you can visit, however the three museums which should make it on your list in 2016 must include the following.
Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum is a Netherlands national museum which is dedicated to collections of history and art. Located in the centre of the city and behind the “i amsterdam” sign, this museum welcomes over 2 million visitors yearly. The museum has well over 1 million pieces but only around 8000 of them are on display. Some of the objects include masterpieces belonging to Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt, Vincent van Gogh and Frans Hals. The collection includes over 2000 pieces of art alone, painted during the Dutch Golden Age. Additionally you will also find an Asian collection located in the Asian pavilion section of the museum. Inside you will also find the Rijksmuseum Research Library which is the largest public art history research library found in The Netherlands.
Van Gogh Museum
If you haven’t had your fill of art, there is always the Van Gogh Museum which is located quite close to Rijksmuseum; exactly opposite to be exact. The museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent Van Gogh and other artists who lived during his time. You will get the opportunity to see many pieces of his work including self portraits and landscapes. The museum has approximately 700 letters, 200 paintings and 400 drawings, and include works such as ‘The Potato Eaters’, his famous self-portrait and the ‘Avenue of Poplars in Autumn’. His contemporaries’ works include pieces by Paul Gauguin and Claude Monet. Van Gogh Museum is the second most visited museum found in the Netherlands with over one million visitors yearly.
The Heineken Experience
The Heineken Experience takes you on a journey through the history of the famous Dutch pilsner known as Heineken beer. Needless to say the museum is more on the fun side and includes a small ride and you may also get the chance to earn yourself a certificate of completion after you serve yourself the perfect pint! Inside this industrial heritage site you will walk through the massive brewery, learning about the history, ingredients and production of Heineken beer. Located around 15 minutes away from the brewery, you can also visit the Heineken Brand Store which is packed with Heineken related products.
