Thanks to her diary, the story of Anne Frank's hiding from the Nazis is a well-known historical event. Nevertheless, visitors to the actual building where she, her family, and friends hid during the German Occupation will find themselves thrown into instant contemplation in the face of this tangible reminder. Once-hidden rooms still contain period memorabilia, along with the haunting presence of those who spent two years of their lives secreted behind walls, dreaming of eventual freedom. Although only Otto Frank, Anne's father, would realize that hope, the experience of the rest will never be forgotten. Come early to avoid the lines at this humbling site.

Designed by Hendrik van Berlage, this structure originally housed Amsterdam's Stock Exchange. Illustrating the shift from 19th to 20th-century architecture, the substantial building makes evident its methods of construction, even utilizing them as decoration. Berlage, in fact, was an aesthetic contemporary of Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. These days, the building is employed as a conference center and also features gallery space. If you opt for a climb to the top of the structure's tower, you'll be rewarded with fabulous city views.

Many of Amsterdam's historic buildings have enjoyed multiple uses through the centuries, and this turreted edifice is no exception. Constructed first as a gate for the city's fortified walls, it was tranformed into a center for weights and measures, as its name still indicates. In later years, it served as a guild house for local professions and has been a museum, fire station, and more. In its most recent incarnation, the Waag houses a well-received restaurant as well as space for various types of exhibits.

This imposing structure, originally constructed as Amsterdam's town hall in the 17th century, became a palace when Louis Bonaparte (Napoleon's brother) ruled the Netherlands for a brief period. Thereafter, its status as a royal dwelling was cemented, although in name only. Most monarchs, in fact, have preferred other residences. These days, the richly adorned palace is open on an attenuated schedule. Its attractions include Empire furniture from the early 19th century, Old Masters paintings, an Italian marble interior, and exterior sculptures.

A stately, elegant home built in the late 17th century, this museum displays the wealth of generations, as well as the various styles of decor popular during the past few centuries. The home's final owner, Louisa Holthuysen, bequeathed the residence to the city in the late 19th century on the condition that it be made into a museum. These days, the beautiful interior, the gardens, and the art collection are stunning glimpses into Amsterdam's past and the life of its well-to-do denizens.