AMSTELVEEN. Housed in a contemporary, geometric structure, this recent addition to the cultural landscape elucidates the creative movement of a mid-century coterie of artists, who derived their collective name (CoBrA) from the cities where they practiced (Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam). The colorful, expressive art strikes a particular chord with modernist aficionados, who find delight in works by such figures as Jorn, Appel, Corneille, Constant, Alechinsky, and Dotremont.

In this gracious, multi-storied home, Rembrandt lived during his greatest period of success. The expensive structure ­ from 1639 to 1658 ­ was his home, studio, and gallery space. When he went bankrupt in 1656, the house and his belongings were sold, Rembrandt moved to a rented home, and the building was given over to other uses. A meticulous renovation, completed in 1999, restored the structure to its 17th century prominence, and furnishings were replaced based on evidence collected in his own artwork. Today, visitors may tour the rooms, his effects, and view hundreds of drawings and etchings collected by the museum.

Suffice it to say that this astounding museum, one of the world's finest, boasts some of history's most amazing artworks. More than 7 million objects comprise its collections, which include prints, paintings, sculpture, Asian art, and works detailing the history of the Dutch nation. Dating back to 1798, the museum also hosts works by such notables as Vermeer, Goya, Van Dyck, Rubens, and van Ruisdael. It also bestows a place of prominence on 'The Night Watch,' perhaps Rembrandt's most famous creation. Worthy of days of exploration, the museum is an absolute must for visitors, for aficionados, for anyone.

If you prefer geometry and simplicity to the brooding, detailed quality of Old Masters' works, the Stedelijk will more than delight. This museum houses artwork dating from 1850 forward and encompasses such aesthetic movements as minimalism, pop art, expressionism, and cubism. Familiar names include Mondrian, Malevich, Calder, Chagall, de Kooning, Warhol, and Picasso. A library, temporary exhibits, and regularly scheduled educational opportunities extend the scope of the museum per se.

Dedicated to preserving the art created by one of history's most well-known yet tortured figures, this museum has compiled an impressive collection of Van Gogh's works. The permanent collection groups pieces according to where Van Gogh lived and the periods of his life; it also arranges them chronologically for effect. In addition, the museum displays works by Van Gogh's contemporaries and maintains holdings of the artist's letters and his own personal collection of Japanese prints. Temporary exhibits can be seen as well.