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Amsterdam is a city filled with history, art, and culture. Its museums cover everything from world-famous paintings to quirky and unexpected topics. Whether you love classic art, history, or something unusual, there’s a museum for you. So here is my list of the 10 museums to visit in Amsterdam.
Location: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam
Best For: Lovers of Dutch art, culture, and history
Entry Fee: €25 (adult), free for children under 18. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.rijksmuseum.nl
The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most famous and popular museums, and for good reason. It houses over 8,000 objects across 80 galleries, providing a guide to Dutch art and history. The museum’s most iconic work is undoubtedly Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” a massive and awe-inspiring painting.
Aside from Rembrandt, you’ll find works by other Dutch Masters such as Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen. The museum isn’t just about paintings, though. There are exhibits on Dutch history, decorative arts, and even an impressive collection of Asian artifacts. If you have any interest in Dutch culture, this is a must-visit destination.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: The museum can get crowded, especially around “The Night Watch.” Try to arrive early to enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Location: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
Best For: Fans of Van Gogh and modern art
Entry Fee: €20 (adult), free for children under 18. Entry fees are subject to change. The museum is not included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.vangoghmuseum.nl
Amsterdam is home to the Van Gogh Museum, which houses an extensive collection of works by the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. Here, you’ll find over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and hundreds of letters by Van Gogh, offering a detailed insight into his life, mental struggles, and extraordinary artistic development.
The museum’s layout is designed to tell the story of Van Gogh’s life, from his early, darker works such as “The Potato Eaters” to his bright and expressive later works like “Sunflowers” and “Almond Blossom.” You’ll also learn about the close relationship between Van Gogh and his brother Theo, who supported him both financially and emotionally throughout his life.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: Pre-book your tickets online to skip the often long lines. The museum also offers a multimedia tour that provides great insights into Van Gogh’s life.
Location: Westermarkt 20, 1016 DK Amsterdam
Best For: History enthusiasts, those interested in World War II
Entry Fee: €16 (adult), €7 (children 10-17), €1 (children 0 -9). Entry fees are subject to change. The museum is not included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.annefrank.org
The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most moving and emotional museums. It’s located in the actual building where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. Visitors can walk through the secret annex where Anne, her family, and four others lived for more than two years.
What makes this museum so impactful is the personal connection it creates with visitors. The rooms have been preserved as they were, and the museum includes excerpts from Anne’s famous diary. The experience is both heartbreaking and enlightening, as it provides a personal look into the horrors of the Holocaust through the eyes of a young girl.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: You will need to book tickets online as they aren’t available at the museum. We watched a number of people booking tickets on their mobile phones while in the queue to enter. Tickets can sell out weeks in advance, so be sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting in high season.
Location: Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
Best For: Fans of modern art, design, and architecture
Entry Fee: €22.50 (adult), free for children under 18. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.stedelijk.nl
If modern and contemporary art is more your style, the Stedelijk Museum is the place to be. The museum is often called the “bathtub” due to its unique exterior design. It boasts an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century art, including works by Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, and Andy Warhol.
The museum is divided into two parts: one focuses on modern art, featuring movements like De Stijl and Bauhaus, while the other explores contemporary works, including installation art, video art, and experimental designs. Whether you’re interested in fine art or cutting-edge design, there’s plenty to discover here.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: After exploring the museum, take a break at the Stedelijk Café overlooking Museumplein, where you can enjoy a coffee with a view.
Grab an I amsterdam City Card, download the app and get free and discounted tickets to heaps of Amsterdam’s amazing attractions, including many of the museums on this list.
Location: Linnaeusstraat 2, 1092 CK Amsterdam
Best For: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, anthropology lovers
Entry Fee: €18 (adult), €7.50 (children 6-18), free for children under 6. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.amsterdam.wereldmuseum.nl
The Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (formerly the Tropenmuseum, the Afrika Museum and Museum Volkenkunde) offers a fascinating exploration of world cultures. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, this museum focuses on the diverse ways people around the globe live, connect, and express themselves.
Through an impressive collection of artefacts, photographs, and multimedia displays, the Wereldmuseum tells stories from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Oceania. The exhibits encourage visitors to reflect on the shared human experience and consider the impact of colonial history and globalisation.
The museum is both educational and thought-provoking, with a strong focus on the voices and perspectives of the communities represented. It’s an eye-opening experience for anyone curious about the wider world.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: Check the museum’s calendar for temporary exhibitions, which often focus on modern social issues and global art trends.
Location: Honthorststraat 20, 1071 DE Amsterdam
Best For: Street art enthusiasts, fans of modern pop culture
Entry Fee: €19.95 (adult), €17.95 (children 7-17), free for children under 7. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.mocomuseum.com
The Moco Museum is a relatively new addition to Amsterdam’s museum scene but has quickly become a favourite for modern and street art fans. Located near the Van Gogh Museum, Moco focuses on works by famous artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum is known for its Banksy collection, which includes some of his most iconic works, like “Girl with Balloon” and “Laugh Now.”
What makes Moco stand out is its edgy and bold approach to art. It’s a museum that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its charm. The exhibitions are thought-provoking, often commenting on social and political issues, making it a great stop for those who enjoy art with a message.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: The museum is small compared to others in the area, so it’s best to combine it with a visit to nearby museums like the Van Gogh or Rijksmuseum.
Location: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
Best For: Families, science enthusiasts
Entry Fee: €21.50 (adult and children 4-17), free for children under 4. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.nemosciencemuseum.nl
If you’re travelling with children or love hands-on learning, the NEMO Science Museum is a fantastic choice. This interactive museum is designed to teach visitors about science and technology through fun experiments and activities. Spread over five floors, NEMO covers everything from physics and chemistry to astronomy and biology.
One of the museum’s most popular features is the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of Amsterdam and a café where you can relax after exploring. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, while adults can enjoy the more advanced explanations of scientific concepts.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: Arrive early, as NEMO can get quite busy, especially on weekends and school holidays.
Location: Damrak 18, 1012 LH Amsterdam
Best For: Visitors interested in history, culture, and the portrayal of sexuality
Entry Fee: €10 (adult), no entry for children under 16. Entry fees are subject to change. The museum is not included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.sexmuseumamsterdam.nl
The Sex Museum Amsterdam (also known as the Venustempel) is the world’s oldest museum dedicated to the history of human sexuality. Open since 1985, this quirky museum explores the portrayal of sex through the ages, offering an entertaining yet educational look at a topic that’s often considered taboo. Located near Dam Square, the museum is easily accessible and worth a visit for those curious about how erotic art and culture have evolved.
You’ll find an eclectic mix of sculptures, paintings, photographs, and old-fashioned erotic devices from different cultures and eras. The museum is divided into themed rooms, with exhibits covering ancient civilisations, the Victorian era, and modern-day views on sexuality. While some displays are humorous or light-hearted, others provide deep insights into how societal attitudes toward sex have changed over the centuries.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: The museum can be a bit cramped during peak hours, so visit early or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience. It’s a fun stop if you want to experience Amsterdam’s more unconventional side.
If you are visiting the Sex Museum, add a bit of fun and head to Condomerie. Condomerie is a show that sells all sorts of condoms, even novelty condoms.
Location: Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS Amsterdam
Best For: Photography lovers, fans of contemporary visual art
Entry Fee: €16 (adult), free for children under 12. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.foam.org
FOAM (Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam) is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. Located along the Keizersgracht Canal, this museum showcases the work of renowned photographers from around the world while also giving a platform to emerging talent. From documentary photography to fashion shoots and artistic compositions, FOAM’s exhibitions span a wide variety of styles, making it an exciting and dynamic space.
The museum frequently updates its exhibits, meaning every visit offers something fresh. FOAM also has a reputation for supporting younger photographers and providing a space for innovation. Many exhibits explore pressing social and political issues, using the power of photography to reflect on themes like identity, inequality, and the human condition.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: FOAM’s gift shop has some fantastic photography books and prints if you’re looking for a unique souvenir.
Location: Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam
Best For: Art lovers, history enthusiasts, fans of Rembrandt
Entry Fee: €21.50 (adult), €15.00 (young adult 18-25), €8.00 (child 6-17), free for children under 6. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.rembrandthuis.nl
For anyone who admires Rembrandt van Rijn, one of the most celebrated Dutch painters, a visit to the Rembrandt House Museum is a must. This museum is located in the artist’s former home, where he lived and worked between 1639 and 1658. The house has been meticulously restored to its 17th-century appearance, allowing visitors to see how Rembrandt lived and worked during his most productive years.
Aside from exploring Rembrandt’s living quarters and studio, visitors can enjoy a large collection of his etchings and drawings. The museum also provides demonstrations of traditional etching techniques and painting methods, allowing you to better understand how the artist created his masterpieces.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: For a more immersive experience, try to visit during one of the museum’s live etching or painting demonstrations. These are scheduled daily and are included with your ticket.
Location: Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam
Best For: Lovers of international exhibitions and dynamic art experiences
Entry Fee: €38.50 (adult), €13.00 (child 13-17), free for children under 13. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry fees are subject to change. Entry is free with the I amsterdam City Card.
Website:
Formerly known as the Hermitage Amsterdam, the H’ART Museum brings world-class international art to the heart of the city. Through exciting partnerships with global museums like the British Museum and Centre Pompidou, the museum hosts blockbuster exhibitions that change regularly.
Set in a beautiful historic building along the Amstel River, the H’ART Museum is a place where art lovers can enjoy a fresh perspective with each visit. The exhibitions span a wide range of styles and periods, making this a great choice if you’re looking to see something new and exciting in Amsterdam’s cultural scene.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: Check the museum’s website before your visit to see which exhibitions are on, as they change frequently.
Location: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 148, 1012 DV Amsterdam
Best For: Cannabis enthusiasts, history lovers, curious travellers
Entry Fee: €4 (adult), €2 (child 6-12), free (children under 6). Entry fees are subject to change. The museum is not included in the I amsterdam City Card.
Website: www.hashmuseum.com
Amsterdam is famous for its relaxed cannabis laws, and this museum dives deep into the plant’s history, culture, and uses. The Hash, Marijuana & Hemp Museum explores the role of cannabis in medicine, spirituality, industry, and even art.
From ancient hemp farming to modern legalisation movements, the museum provides a fascinating look at how societies have used and viewed this plant. There are even live hemp plants growing inside, along with displays on how hemp is used for textiles, paper, and eco-friendly products.
Highlights:
Insider Tip: Visit the museum’s sister location in Barcelona if you’re ever in Spain – it offers a different take on cannabis history and culture!
Q: How many museums are there in Amsterdam?
A: Amsterdam has over 75 museums covering art, history, science, and unique topics.
Q: Are there museums suitable for children?
A: Yes! The NEMO Science Museum is great for kids, offering interactive exhibits.
Q: Should I book museum tickets in advance?
A: It’s a good idea, especially for popular museums like the Van Gogh Museum. You need to have booked online for the Anne Frank House.
Q: Are there discounts available for museum tickets?
A: Yes. Consider getting an I amsterdam City Card, which offers free or discounted entry to many museums.
Q: What’s the best way to get around between museums?
A: Many top museums are located around Museumplein, easy to reach by tram, bike, or on foot.
Amsterdam’s museums are some of the best in the world, offering a rich variety of art, history, and culture. Whether you’re fascinated by Dutch Masters, inspired by modern art, or moved by historical accounts, there’s a museum in Amsterdam to suit your interests. From world-class institutions like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House to niche gems like the Sex Museum and FOAM, a visit to this city is incomplete without diving into its incredible museum scene.
To make the most of your time, it’s worth planning by checking opening hours, booking tickets in advance, and deciding which museums align with your interests. Whether you’re spending a weekend or a week in the city, these museums will give you a deeper understanding of Amsterdam and the wider world.
Happy exploring!
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Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.
We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.
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