With over 50 museums in the city, only the most comprehensive guided tours of Amsterdam can cover every collection. For some visitors, this kind of Amsterdam sightseeing is the perfect activity. For those travelers whose time or interest is more limited, a little bit of research ahead of time will help hone interest and determine the most relevant museums.

Rijksmuseum

One of the most famous art collections in The Netherlands, this museum houses works by many famous Dutch artists. The building in which it sits is also worth a visit; it is considered a landmark and one of the core stops for Amsterdam sightseeing.

Stedelijk Museum

Along with the Rijksmuseum, this is one of the most popular destinations. A visit to the Stedelijk is something of a complement to a visit to the Rijksmuseum, as both of them house a wide collection of artists. But whereas the Rijksmuseum focuses on older art, the Stedelijk emphasizes modern works. The Stedelijk also features various special exhibits.

Van Gogh Museum

One of the foremost collections of Van Gogh paintings in the entire world. This museum displays many of Van Gogh's most famous works, including The Potato Eaters and one of the few Sunflowers painted on a yellow background. The Van Gogh museum presents its collection as a walkthrough of the painter's life from early work till the end of his career.

Het Rembrandthuis Museum

Although the Het Rembrandthuis is a museum, it was originally Rembrandt's house and is preserved as such. It has been restructured to display his works, with a particular focus on his etchings. Many original etchings are preserved here that can be seen nowhere else in the world.

Scheepvaart Museum

The Scheepvaart, or Netherlands Maritime Museum, is a former naval storage building that has been converted into a repository of maritime artifacts. There are exhibits and artifacts to view, and the building in which it sits is a historical landmark as well.

Museum Van Loon

This privately owned institution offers visitors guided tours in Amsterdam by appointment only. Nonetheless, many visitors enjoy its eloquent portrayal of upper class Dutch life. It remains owned by the family van Loon, an aristocratic Dutch family that came to wealth and power starting in the 1600s. Their family house has been opened for tours.

The Jewish Historical Museum

There is no one building that one can call the Jewish Historical Museum. Instead, it is a combination of different offerings expressed in a variety of tours. Some highlights include the Anne Frank house and the JHM Children's Museum, which entertains and delights children of all ages. Because it offers so many different choices, the Jewish Historical Museum can be a very wise destination for families.

Allard Pierson Museum

The Allard Pierson presents the archaeological artifacts of The University of Amsterdam. Visitors can enjoy a variety of artifacts from the near East, including Cyprus, Greece, Sicily, Egypt, and Rome. This waterfront museum offers a blend of historical interest and artistic beauty that makes it a good destination for groups. Guided tours in Amsterdam can be arranged.