It’s amazing to discover that one the most famous and prestigious addresses in Europe was once just a soggy swamp. Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter (museumkwarter) is synonymous with culture, art, haute-couture and superlative dining; and if that’s not enough, it also boasts the city’s largest park and, of course, some of the world’s most prestigious museums.

Spending a day (or several) exploring the Museum Quarter is by far the number one activity whilst holidaying in Amsterdam. Renting an Amsterdam vacation apartment in the Museum Quarter will also ensure you experience Amsterdam in all its authentic glory.

For just a taste of what this fabulous quarter has to offer, follow our guide to a ‘day out in the Museum Quarter’ and take home some unforgettable memories!

After a hearty breakfast, head to the Van Gogh Museum and spend your morning overdosing on the works of the world’s most tortured artist. Showcasing the largest Van Gogh collection in the world, this wonderful complex is also home to many other works by Vincent’s contemporaries, friends, muses and various artists who claim to have been inspired by Van Gogh. Should you be travelling with children (and over a week-end) don’t forget to book them a spot at the gallery’s kids’ workshops. They’ll be entertained while you peruse at leisure, and you may well discover your child’s hidden talents.

After a few hours’ escape in the surrealist world, it’s time to bring you back to earth. A raw herring ought to do the job! Your very authentic lunch is cheap and tasty, and is best savoured from Altena, a humble stand on Jujikenstraat. Don’t forget to chew and enjoy the lingering aftertaste…hmmm

A spot of afternoon shopping is bound to help your digestion! So head to PC ZHoofstraat for some exquisite retail therapy! ZHoofstraat is one of the most exclusive shopping strips in the whole country, home to famous brands such as Gucci, D&G, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. The street also has historic significance. This probably has nothing to do with the fact that the first ever ‘Glamour stiletto 75m sprint’ was held here in 2006, but rather with the fact that it was named in honour of a famous Dutch poet. Ms Nancy Karels was the winner of the stiletto sprint, and she pocketed a €10,000 shopping spree for her efforts. Well deserved!

If the torturous window shopping was not enough, head to the Rijksmuseum to admire some more priceless artworks. To get there, cross Museumplein Park and admire the museum’s architecture before diving in for a closer look. The building is a work of art in its own right and is a mix of gothic and renaissance styles. Considered one of the finest museums in the world, the Rijksmuseum hosts collections from Holland’s Golden Age (among many others) and is a dedication to world history. There are over 20 paintings by Rembrandt to admire, as well as various works by Johannes Vermeer and Frans Hals.

For dinner, we suggest you delve into Amsterdam’s multi-cultural side and head straight to Sama Sebo, an Indonesian institution just a few minute’s walk from the museum. This place gets insanely busy in the evenings, but it’s the vibrant and cosy atmosphere which makes it a really fun (and flavoursome) gastronomic experience. Order the full menu and treat your taste buds to a trip into culinary heaven.