If you're in the mood for a quick gateway from the city centre, then consider visiting this extremely quiet and impressive attraction, which is just perfect for a picnic on the grass, but that will also satisfy history-lovers. So wander around this ruined monastery and then enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The Anne Frank House is the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Now a museum, it recreates the war and holocaust years. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects belonging to the people in hiding and those who helped them all serve to illustrate the events which occurred at this location. Anne's original diary is on display in the museum as well.

The Jordaan is a neighbourhood of the city centre of Amsterdam, west of Prinsengracht canal. Originally a working-class neighbourhood, the Jordaan has become one of the most expensive, upscale and desirable locations in the country. It is home to gorgeous historical residential buildings with cute hofjes (inner courtyards), numerous modern art galleries, speciality shops, cafes and restaurants. Rembrandt spent the last years of his life in the Jordaan, on the Rozengracht canal. The Anne Frank House is located on the edge of the Jordaan, on the Prinsengracht canal. Many houses in the Jordaan have a stone tablet on their facade, displaying the profession or family sign of the inhabitants, such as scissors for tailors and a piglet for butchers. See how many you can spot!

At nearly 555 feet, the Washington Monument is the tallest structure in the city and can be seen from all over D.C. You can take an elevator to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the National Mall, the Capitol, and the surrounding city. Tickets are timed, so it’s best to reserve in advance, especially during peak tourist season.