The Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam)

The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam's most popular tourist attraction and the pride and joy of the Dutch art world. It houses the world's largest collection of Dutch masters and a wealth of exotic Asian art treasures. Primarily an attraction for lovers of art, you can also view a wide range of historic artefacts, ceramics, traditional crafts and even antique dolls houses while on short breaks here. Taking pride of place in the vibrant Museumplein, on cheap city breaks in Amsterdam you can spend a long and rewarding day of culture here followed by an equally fascinating visit to the Van Gogh Museum and the Concertgebouw.

 

A big draw for visitors are the iconic old masters from greats such as Vermeer, Rembrandt and Jan Steen. Visitors always linger long admiring the captivating displays of old Delft pottery as well which contrast sharply with the unique colonial era treasures obtained from the Indian sub-continent and the Dutch East Indies. On short breaks in Amsterdam, you can also do some al fresco viewing in the Baroque Gardens of the Rijksmuseum, where you will discover imposing statues and stately fountains. The gardens are littered with salvaged fixtures from historic Dutch homes and offer up a compelling blend of architecture styles spanning over four centuries.

 

There is a great deal to take in during a visit to The Rijksmuseum and a guided tour will make a very sound investment if time is limited. You can opt for a general introduction to Dutch art or take a thematic journey through art history concentrating on the works of Rembrandt or colonial art for example. There are audio tours in several languages and lots of educational resources available for serious art connoisseurs such as a picture library and some English language lectures. Younger members on weekends in Amsterdam can get creative themselves or follow an engaging children's guide, bringing to life 400 years of art history with sketching competitions and treasure hunts.