Grachtenmuseum (Museum of the Canals), Amsterdam

In just 45 minutes, the Museum of the Canals packs in an impressive amount of insight—shedding light on the building it calls home, the challenges of construction in a growing Amsterdam, and how the city’s elite once lived. It’s appropriately housed in a four-story 17th-century canal mansion along the Gentlemen's Canal, making it a history lesson wrapped in luxury.

The exhibits are a treasure trove of information. Ever wonder why some canal houses tilt forward or lean to the side? Or how the city’s meticulous planning shaped its iconic waterways? How about the curious connection between Amsterdam’s prosperity and America’s revolution? All is revealed here, complete with clever touches like miniature canal house models and playful peepholes that let you peek into interiors from centuries past. A lot of thought was put into making this place interactive and fun, using video projections and 3D elements to keep things lively.

And, as a cherry on top, you’ll get a rare view of one of Amsterdam’s hidden delights: the serene garden tucked behind the museum. With most canal houses keeping their greenery out of sight, this spot offers a special glimpse into one of the city’s best-kept secrets.