Best Museums in Amsterdam

By Robert Heaney
Flowerbeds floating on water in front of Rijksmuseum

Globally renowned as a rich cultural center, Amsterdam is positively brimming with engaging museums and historical landmarks. Having grown from a small riverside settlement in the middle ages to a modern cosmopolitan paradise, the Dutch capital has seen its fair share of significant historical and cultural developments over the centuries.

Whether you’re looking to retrace the steps of Dutch history, appreciate the works of influential artists or simply discover some brand new cultural insights, the best museums in Amsterdam cater to a huge variety of audiences.

Rijksmuseum

Image of City, Urban, Person, Shop, Shopping Mall,

One of the most important museums in both the Netherlands and indeed Europe as a whole, the Rijksmuseum stands as the largest museum in Amsterdam. Dominating the popular Museumplein, the museum is easily one of the most recognizable monuments in the city, most notably for its striking Renaissance- and Gothic-inspired architecture.

The grand halls of the Rijksmuseum are home to a vast collection of art pieces and historical artifacts, illustrating the art and history of the Netherlands from the Dutch Golden Age to present day. Among its more than 8,000-strong collection are priceless pieces from such renowned Dutch artists as Rembrandt and Vermeer, including the former’s famous Night Watch painting.

Amsterdam Museum

Image of City, Person, Housing, Urban, House,

Combining both historical artifacts and striking artworks, the Amsterdam Museum stands as the Netherlands’ most complete public chronology of the Dutch capital’s history. The museum sits within the canal band, just a short walk from the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.

The museum documents the city’s growth from a thirteenth-century settlement on the banks of the River Amstel to the thriving cultural center we know today. Everything from archeological finds and historical artifacts to the works of such Dutch masters as Rembrandt help to paint a picture of life in Amsterdam and the Low Countries as a whole throughout various periods in history.

Van Gogh Museum

Image of Person, Walking, College, Handbag, Flower, People,

Having lived and worked in the Netherlands throughout his life, it’s only fitting that Amsterdam’s most significant art gallery be dedicated to the world’s most famous painter, Vincent Van Gogh. Just a brief walk from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum stands as the most complete permanent collection of the Dutch painter’s works.

Among the gallery’s vast collection of permanent exhibits are over 200 original paintings and 500 drawings from the Post-Impressionist artist, alongside exhibitions showcasing the works of his contemporaries. The museum is separated chronologically into five periods, each exploring a different key period in his life and work.

National Maritime Museum

Image of Water, Waterfront, Boat, Sailboat, Vehicle, Watercraft, Person,

As a country defined by its fight against the ocean and its role as a pioneer in the Golden Age of Exploration, it’s no secret that the Netherlands is a country built on seafaring. The National Maritime Museum stands as a monument to Dutch nautical pursuits, covering everything from the Golden Age to Amsterdam’s historical role as an international trade hub.

Situated quite fittingly upon the water, the museum recounts the history of Dutch maritime activity through the likes of naval maps, contemporary paintings, navigation instruments and a variety of replica ships. Moored outside the museum is a replica Dutch East India Company ship, upon which visitors can see what life was like for crew members on their exploratory voyages around the globe.

NEMO Science Museum

Image of Boy, Child, Male, Person, Adult, Man, Female, Woman, Urban,

Housed within one of Amsterdam’s modern architectural marvels is the NEMO Science Museum, offering visitors of all ages an opportunity to explore science and technology in an engaging, interactive environment. Various exhibits, workshops, activities, demonstrations and movies allow visitors to see, touch, hear and smell how the world works across five immersive floors.

Situated in the Oosterdok area, the venue’s accessible rooftop offers an additional open-air exhibition, terrace and restaurant, as well as stunning panoramic views across the city. While this is an ideal experience for families with younger children, that isn’t to say older individuals can’t get just as much of a kick from the vast range of immersive exhibitions on offer.

Anne Frank House

Image of Furniture, Table, Boy, Child, Male, Person,

Easily the most popular historical site in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House. Once the original house in which the famous wartime diarist evaded German capture, the building now serves as a museum documenting her family’s more than two years in hiding, along with sobering insights into Jewish persecution under the Nazi regime throughout the Second World War.

Located on the outer banks of Amsterdam’s canal band, visitors can explore the former premises of the Frank family business including the original concealed annex in which they and two other families remained in hiding. While the rooms of the property now sit empty of original furniture, they still breathe the chilling atmosphere of the period.

EYE Film Institute

Image of City, Convention Center, Person, Water, Waterfront, Shelter, Office Building,

The EYE Film Institute is the Netherlands’ most important center dedicated to the medium of film and the moving image. Visitors to EYE Amsterdam can enjoy a selection of classic screenings across its four main cinemas and explore the many facets of the film industry through its expansive exhibition area.

The museum explores current, historical and artistic developments in film, while its interactive basement offers visitors the opportunity to explore its vast digitized collection. EYE also hosts an impressive program of immersive, educational events and activities for families and individuals alike to learn about the industry.

Rembrandt House

Image of Sword, Wood,

A short ways behind the Red Light District sits the former residence of celebrated Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. A vast property on the banks of Zwanenburgwal, the Rembrandt House has been restored to replicate its exact layout during the artist’s residency, decorated according to an inventory drawn up shortly after his declaration of bankruptcy.

Enthusiasts of the Golden Age painter’s works can explore his studio and living quarters, adorned with a rotating collection of his paintings. Demonstrations held at the venue also offer insights into Rembrandt’s painting and etching techniques, alongside other artistic techniques popular among his seventeenth-century contemporaries.

Venustempel Sex Museum

Image of Cafe, Indoors, Restaurant, Cafeteria, Person, Interior Design, City, Chair, Furniture,

As a city now long famous for its various hedonistic offerings, it should be clear that Amsterdam isn’t one to shy away from topics often considered taboo in other parts of the world. The Venustempel (‘Venus Temple’) is the world’s oldest – and indeed first – museum dedicated to eroticism and sensuality.

Fittingly situated close to Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District, the museum displays an extensive collection of erotic paintings, photographs and recordings, among other exhibits. At the museum’s entrance, visitors are immediately greeted by a plaster bust of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and fertility, before embarking on an exploration of human intimacy throughout the ages.

Robert Heaney
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

adventure amsterdam
Blog

Adventurous Things to do in Amsterdam

Calling all adventurers! Are you a brave soul that faces the extreme with a smile? Do death-defying feats fill you with a lust for life like no other? Well then, you've come to the right place. Amsterdam might not seem like the city to cater to your needs at first, but look beneath the surface, and you'll find plenty of adventurous things to do in Amsterdam. Don't believe us? Shame on you. Here, we'll prove it to you. Here are our picks for the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam! You are very welcome. Including: THIS IS HOLLAND A'DAM LOOKOUT Bungee jumping Cycle far and wide Kayak on the canal and more! Jump, go ahead and jump To adventurous types like yourself, heights probably aren't too much of an issue. After all, there are adventures to be had high above the pathetic sea level, right? Well, how do you feel about jumping off a crane? At Faralda Crane Hotel, you can do just that. This crane/hotel, something that was strange even to write, you don't just have to stay the night in one of the most stylish yet strange hotels in the city. You can also scale the building and bungee jump from the crane itself. Madness. And this isn't your usual head-first affair. Oh no, this is feet-first bungee, devoid of the usual blood rush to the head of your standard jump. So go on, prove how adventurous you really are, and jump from a crane! Definitely one of the craziest things to do in Amsterdam. 5D Thrills When reality doesn't quite cut it for your adventurous side, why not try another dimension? At THIS IS HOLLAND, you'll fly through the skies of Amsterdam, feeling the wind in your hair. Sea spray will patter your face as you glide across the city's rivers. All of that, and you won't even leave your seat. This thrill ride is composed of four shows, each giving you fantastic and unique views of the city. You'll learn about Amsterdam's past and present as you soar through the air. All the while, your seat mimics the show's motions, and you'll feel the wind, rain, and much more as advanced technology throws everything at you. Sublime. Wheely good Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones we make ourselves. After all, what we think is adventurous might not quite align with the offerings of a city. So, why not set out on your own and cycle out of town? The Netherlands is a gloriously pretty country, with rolling hills, flower-filled fields, and more windmills than you can shake a turbine at. And best of all, many of the country's freeways have dedicated cycle lanes safely slotted beside them. So, get on your bike, and go explore! The Flower Strip is around 25 miles south of the city, making it the perfect picturesque getaway for you adventurous creatures. Tread water Visitors to Amsterdam will soon discover the city's affinity to water. It's literally everywhere, with canals and river estuaries snaking their way through the city. You'll likely spend much of your vacation crossing these by bridge, or walking beside them as you get about. You can even take boat tours of the city. But where's the adventure in that? You know what you have to do. You have to conquer these waters yourself! So get out there, hire a kayak, and take to the waters like a modern-day, solo pirate. Just with less of the plundering and more of the water mastery. Easily one of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam, and one of the best ways to see the city in all its beautiful glory. Lick a shot Picture the scene - you're deep in enemy territory. Your opponents have you pinned down, and it's looking dicey. But then, as the fear begins to wash over you like a claustrophobic blanket of terror, you breathe out, shake it off, and bravely stand to face your foe. As you return fire, you're peppered with invisible bullets. Your battered suit lets out an exhausted set of beeps. You've been shot one too many times, and it's getting tired of keeping score. But you are unharmed. And better yet, you're ready to enact revenge on the scallywags. Now that's an adventure. That scene is just a microcosm of fun at Lasertag Amsterdam. Inside, between 2 and 24 people will, run, gun, and have ultimate fun during 30-minute battles. Do you have what it takes to top the scoreboard? You'll just have to find out for yourself, you adventurous wonder. Look out below! Heights mean nothing to adventurers like you. So why not test your mettle at A'DAM LOOKOUT? This innocuous-looking observation deck might not seem too daring at first. Sure, the view of the city is one-of-a-kind. But it's safe. Perhaps too safe. Well, look again, because A'DAM LOOKOUT has a terrifying secret. It's called 'Over the Edge', and its only for the most stern of heart. This giant swing careens over the edge of the observation deck 100 meters in the air. That makes it easily one of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam! But, if you wuss out, we won't judge you for it. There are still thrills to be had beyond the views. Safer thrills, but thrills nonetheless. Hop into the VR booth, and go on a virtual rollercoaster ride through the city's streets. Awesome. Monkey around Do you ever look up at trees and wish you could swing through them as our long-lost ancestors did? Yes, evolution is real, and yes, so do we! And now you can, thanks to Fun Forest Amsterdam! Forego the country's flatland and trade it in for a little tree climbing. Test your mettle on arduous rope courses, fly through the air on the ziplines, and clamber about on all the other tree-climbing paraphernalia. It's a one-way ticket to fun town. Population? You. Get wild at the beach Amsterdam might not be known for its water sports, but what do people know? Some people believe the Earth is flat, so it's not like they can be trusted. Prove them wrong, and partake in some exciting and, dare we say it, adventurous watersports in the city! At Amsterdam Watersports, you can take part in a myriad of exciting water-based activities, from wakeboarding, surfing, jet surfing, and even flyboarding. No, we didn't make that last one up. If you've ever seen videos of those people using water-powered jet boots to fly into the sky like Tony Stark, it's that. And it's fantastic. And that's our list of the most adventurous things to do in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley
amsterdam alone
Blog

Things to do Alone in Amsterdam

They say that 1 is the loneliest number. But what do they know? Sometimes, having the freedom to do and see whatever you want whenever you want is just what you need. So, if you're visiting Amsterdam alone, or you have a day to yourself, what are the best things to do? Well, we're going to tell you. Right now. So sit back, scroll down, and retain all this sweet information, because these are our picks for the best things to do alone in Amsterdam! Including: Museums Boat tours Bike rental Stadium tours Brewery visits   Image courtesy of Gerard Arrey/Shutterstock Artifact watching Why not go check out a museum while you're on your lonesome? You get to stay as long as you want, and no one need drag you around any museum that doesn't interest you! The Moco Museum is for the modern art enjoyer, with an unofficial 'residency' courtesy of street art legend Banksy. Inside, you'll find works from many artists besides the elusive stenciler, each with their own views on modern life, governance, and greed. Truly some eye-opening works lie within, and plenty of photo ops, should you dare ruin the moment with your need for social media attention. Or, on the more classic side of art is the Rijksmuseum. Featuring works from luminaries of the Dutch Golden Age of painting, discover well-known pieces from Rembrandt, Vermeer, and many more. The museum houses over 8,000 works of art, so good luck seeing them all in one day! Or, if science is more your jam, big and little kids will love the NEMO Science Museum. With hundreds of interactive exhibits across multiple floors, exploring everything from electricity to chemical reactions, there's something for everyone inside. Then, when you're done, head to the roof for more exhibits embedded in a luscious garden.   Bayside High Or, leave your seasick friends and family at home and go explore Amsterdam on the open ocean. Well, not the ocean per se, but certainly on the city's many canals and rivers! If you want to see Amsterdam's highlights all rolled into one waterborne trip, then why not hop on a boat tour of the city? There are multiple stops along the way, giving you the opportunity to stretch your legs, explore, and snap some sweet pics. You'll head past the Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark, Centraal Station, and the Anne Frank House. Or, if you want to see what else the country has to offer, and take a roundtrip tour of The Hague, Rotterdam, and Delft! You'll tour Rotterdam's illustrious harbor by boat, see the historic Delft town center, and then onto The Hague, the governing center of the whole country. Just make sure you set aside a day for this one, because you'll be exploring for hours on end!   Two wheels, one rider Another fantastic way to explore Amsterdam on your own is by bike. It's no secret that Amsterdam is the most cycle-friendly city on Earth, so why not rent one for yourself and see what all the fuss is about? There's pretty much no place you can't go on a bike; even many of the country's freeways have cycle lanes! It's the easiest way to make your way through Amsterdam's many winding, cobbled streets as you explore the city from top to bottom. Then, swap urban for flora at one of Amsterdam's brilliant parks, which are all cycle-friendly too! A fair warning: the cyclists that call Amsterdam's lanes home take no prisoners. If you're a bit rusty, or are getting used to the hired bike's gears, do yourself a favor and go practice in a park. There's no room for slowpokes in the fast lane, baby, and you're likely to be stared at or tutted if you fumble your way on the lanes.   Image courtesy of Vladimir Zhoga/Shutterstock Stepover into history For the soccer fans out there, you might not wish to drag your partner out to a stadium tour. Not everyone digs the beautiful game, and there probably aren't many things more boring than a non-fan to walk around a stadium staring that silverware that means nothing to them. So, leave your soccer-hating partner in the dirt, and do yourself a favor. Go take a tour of the Johan Cruijff Stadium, home of European juggernauts Ajax. Comfortably the Netherlands' best team for decades, this 75-minute tour will take you around the team's facilities, including the changing room, down the tunnel, and even pitchside. Then, explore the extensive trophy cabinet, with many domestic and European trophies won by soccer legends like Johan Cruijff, the stadium's namesake. Simply the best, and one of the most perfect things to do alone in Amsterdam if you're the only soccer fan!   Go grab a beer Of course, one of life's many pleasures is sitting out in the sun, sipping a beer, and letting the warm calmness wash over you. Just us? Surely not. Thankfully, if that sounds like paradise to you, Amsterdam's got some treats you shouldn't miss. For craft beer connoisseurs, hop on a free ferry from Centraal Station over to Amsterdam Noord. There, a short walk from the harbor, you'll find the Oedipus Taproom, a delightful brewery cum bar, with plenty of outside seating, friendly staff, and a comprehensive number of different beers on tap. You can even order a burger from the resident eatery 'The Beef Chief'. Don't worry; they do veggie and vegan burgers too, if murder isn't your acquired taste. And, as the staff and patrons are both incredibly welcoming, with conversations struck up left, right, and center, it's one of the best things to do alone in Amsterdam! Or, if you want a more touristy experience, why not take a tour of the Netherlands' favorite amber export, Heineken? At the Heineken Experience, you'll tour the very first Heineken brewery, which opened nearly 200 years ago. You'll learn about the brand's heritage, how it's brewed, and what innovations they're planning to bring to the beer game. And don't worry, when all is said and done, you'll get a chance to try a couple of glasses yourself, on the house. And those were our picks for the best things to do alone in Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley
Iconic Amsterdam canal houses reflected in a canal
Blog

Amsterdam in October

At the peak of fall, Amsterdam finds itself in the middle of its late-year shoulder season. Just as the weather begins to make way for the colder climates of winter, so too do tourism rates reach some of their lowest. With that, a trip to Amsterdam in October guarantees you’ll be able to experience the capital’s famous mix of history and hedonism at its most genuine. Visiting Amsterdam in October Average Temperature: 46 - 57°F • Average Rainfall: 9 days/mth • Average Sunshine: 3 hours/day Marking the height of Amsterdam’s fall shoulder season, October sees some of the year’s lowest turnover of tourists, with the summertime masses now long gone and the brief waves of Christmas vacationers still a good way off. While the Dutch capital is never truly quiet, this temporary lull offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the city at its most genuine. Many of Amsterdam’s top attractions and activities are evergreen, meaning you can enjoy them at just about any time of year. However, lower tourism rates mean you’ll get to experience these attractions much more at your leisure, often without having to battle such large crowds. And if that’s not enough to convince you, then perhaps the low-season hotel rates and airfare will be. With fall now in full swing, Amsterdam’s weather takes a fairly noticeable dip in October. With typically mild highs and rather cool lows, you’re likely to find yourself – quite rightfully – leaning more toward indoor attractions and cozy cafés. If you’re looking to spend more of your time exploring the city’s iconic streets and squares, then just be sure to pack some slightly warmer clothes, and don’t forget your umbrella. Things to do in October Few things represent Amsterdam better than its wealth of renowned historical and cultural hubs. Taking pride of place, the Rijksmuseum stretches along the Museumplein, housing its vast selection of some of the Netherlands’ most celebrated artworks and historical artifacts. The Amsterdam Museum takes a much more direct approach to history, chronicling the development of the Dutch capital from the middle ages to present day. However, easily the most visited historical site in Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House, where a museum dedicated to the famous wartime diarist immortalizes the very place she and her family evaded German capture. Should you have an eye for art, you’ll know that some of history’s most notable artists were Dutch through and through. In tribute to these famed painters, Amsterdam is dotted with a variety of art galleries, such as the Van Gogh Museum, along with hotspots like the Rembrandt House, frozen in time, where enthusiasts can walk in the footsteps of one of Europe’s greatest creatives. Alongside art, culture and history, Amsterdam is particularly famous for its hedonistic delights, and nothing reflects that more than its bustling nightlife scene. As a general rule of thumb, Jordaan is a particularly popular area with young people for its selection of trendy bars, and the clubs on Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein serve as a great place to continue the night. For a unique way to explore the city while you still have the weather for it, a canal boat tour can offer a fantastic view of some of Amsterdam’s top attractions from along its iconic waterways. Alternatively, a hop-on, hop-off boat tour offers somewhat the same experience, while also offering a great way to get from A to B. If you’re looking to escape the cold for a few hours, whether it be with a steaming cup of coffee and a hearty slice of homemade cake or a few beers over a friendly game, a number of specialty venues throughout the city can deliver just that. The homely atmosphere and wide library of board games and books at Checkpoint Charlie makes it a great place to spend a few hours, while Mooie Boules has visitors sinking a few drinks while playing or watching a few rounds of French boules. Events in October Amsterdam Lift-Off Film Festival Over the course of a week in October, filmmakers and film fanatics alike come together to celebrate their shared passion for the medium at the Lift-Off Film Festival. The event invites upcoming talent to submit films of any genre to be vetted and subsequently screened in various iconic locations across the city. Throughout the festival, submissions will be subject to audience choice awards, in which viewers vote on their choice for the best candidate in various categories. Some of the largest categories include Best Actor, Best Screenplay and Best Director, with other awards specific to genres, techniques and media. The festival serves to provide a platform for rising creators to gain recognition and further opportunities in the film industry and related professional circles. Amsterdam Dance Event The Amsterdam Dance Event is the world’s leading electronic music festival. Taking place over a little under a week, the event features over 300 performances from more than 2,000 DJs throughout more than 80 venues and clubs throughout Amsterdam. With an immense program of events featuring both the biggest international names and fresh talent, the festival briefly transforms Amsterdam into the world’s busiest and most thriving nightlife hub. The event attracts over 350,000 visitors from around the globe each year to revel in performances covering the full spectrum of electronic sub-genres. Camera Japan Festival Camera Japan is another lauded film festival with a Japanese twist. Beginning in Rotterdam often in late September before moving to Amsterdam, the event features a vast program of Japanese film screenings. From short films to top animated pieces, many of these screenings offer English subtitles, attracting thousands of fans of world cinema each year. Alongside the impressive array of movies is also a plethora of cultural events and activities. Visitors with an interest in Japanese art can join a calligraphy class, while foodies can indulge in some of the best Japanese cuisine in the region and watch a traditional dance or Japanese fashion demonstration.
Robert Heaney

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.