2Amsterdam, Netherlands

Why Visit: Amsterdam’s architecture is characterized by its picturesque canals lined with narrow, gabled houses and its innovative modern structures.

Architectural Highlights:

  • Canal Houses: The 17th-century canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features beautifully preserved houses with distinctive gables.
  • Rijksmuseum: This Dutch Renaissance revival building houses a vast collection of art and history.
  • Eye Filmmuseum: A striking example of contemporary architecture, this museum is situated on the waterfront and is known for its futuristic design.

Amsterdam School: The city is also notable for its early 20th-century Amsterdam School architecture, characterized by expressive forms and decorative brickwork, seen in buildings like Het Schip.