Amsterdam is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums. From art and history to science and technology, Amsterdam has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best museums in Amsterdam that you simply can’t miss.
Table of Contents
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Anne Frank House
- Stedelijk Museum
- The Rembrandt House Museum
- Tropenmuseum
- Hermitage Amsterdam
- Amsterdam Museum
- NEMO Science Museum
- Foam Photography Museum
- Museum of Bags and Purses
- The Dutch Resistance Museum
- Allard Pierson Museum
- Micropia
- EYE Filmmuseum
1. Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and a must-visit for anyone interested in Dutch art and history. The museum’s collection features over 8,000 objects that tell the story of 800 years of Dutch art and history, including masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
2. Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh, one of the most influential artists in history. The museum’s collection features over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters by Van Gogh. The museum also features works by other artists who were influenced by Van Gogh, including Paul Gauguin and Claude Monet.
3. Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank, the Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II and wrote a diary that has become one of the most widely read books in the world. The museum is located in the house where Anne and her family lived in hiding for two years, and features exhibits on Anne’s life, the Holocaust, and discrimination.
4. Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam is a museum of modern and contemporary art and design. The museum’s collection features works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, and Gerrit Rietveld. The museum also features a large collection of design objects, including furniture, textiles, and ceramics.
5. The Rembrandt House Museum
The Rembrandt House Museum is located in the house where Rembrandt lived and worked for 20 years. The museum features exhibits on Rembrandt’s life and works, including his etchings and paintings. Visitors can also see Rembrandt’s workshop and learn about the techniques he used to create his masterpieces.
6. Tropenmuseum
The Tropenmuseum is a museum of world cultures and ethnography. The museum’s collection features over 175,000 objects from around the world, including art, textiles, and artifacts. The museum also features exhibits on different cultures and traditions, and offers workshops and events for visitors of all ages.
7. Hermitage Amsterdam
The Hermitage Amsterdam is a museum that features exhibits on Russian art and culture. The museum’s collection features works from the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Velazquez, and Matisse. The museum also features exhibits on Russian history and culture, including the Romanov dynasty and the Russian Revolution.
8. Amsterdam Museum
TheAmsterdam Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the city of Amsterdam. The museum’s collection features over 100,000 objects that tell the story of Amsterdam from its early beginnings to the present day. The museum also features exhibits on the city’s architecture, social and economic development, and its diverse population.
9. NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum is a museum dedicated to science and technology. The museum’s collection features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about different aspects of science and technology through hands-on experiences. The museum also features a large outdoor terrace that offers stunning views of Amsterdam.
10. Foam Photography Museum
The Foam Photography Museum is a museum dedicated to contemporary photography. The museum’s collection features works by some of the most influential photographers of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, and Nan Goldin. The museum also features a variety of temporary exhibits that showcase the work of emerging photographers.
11. Museum of Bags and Purses
The Museum of Bags and Purses is a museum dedicated to the history of bags and purses. The museum’s collection features over 5,000 bags and purses from different periods and cultures, including ancient Egypt, the Middle Ages, and the 20th century. The museum also features exhibits on the evolution of fashion and design.
12. The Dutch Resistance Museum
The Dutch Resistance Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of the Dutch resistance during World War II. The museum’s collection features exhibits on the resistance movement, including the activities of the Dutch underground, and the lives of ordinary people during the war.
13. Allard Pierson Museum
The Allard Pierson Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the ancient Mediterranean world. The museum’s collection features artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, including statues, pottery, and jewelry. The museum also features exhibits on the history of archaeology and the methods used to study ancient cultures.
14. Micropia
Micropia is a museum dedicated to microorganisms and microbiology. The museum’s collection features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the invisible world of microorganisms and their role in the natural world. The museum also features a variety of exhibits on different topics related to microbiology, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
15. EYE Filmmuseum
The EYE Filmmuseum is a museum dedicated to the history of film. The museum’s collection features films, posters, and artifacts from different periods and countries, including classic Hollywood films, European art-house films, and contemporary cinema. The museum also features a variety of temporary exhibits and screenings of classic and contemporary films.
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Conclusion
Amsterdam is a city that is rich in history and culture, and its museums offer visitors a chance to explore this heritage in depth. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or technology, there is a museum in Amsterdam that is sure to pique your interest. From the world-famous Rijksmuseum to the lesser-known Museum of Bags and Purses, Amsterdam’s museums are a testament to the city’s vibrant and diverse cultural scene.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Amsterdam’s museums?
- Amsterdam’s museums are open year-round, but it’s best to visit during the off-season (October to March) to avoid the crowds.
- What is the best way to get to Amsterdam’s museums?
- Amsterdam’s museums are easily accessible by public transport, including buses, trams, and trains.
- How much does it cost to visit Amsterdam’s museums?
- The cost of admission varies depending on the museum, but many museums offer discounts for students and seniors.
- Are Amsterdam’s museums accessible for people with disabilities?
- Most of Amsterdam’s museums are wheelchair accessible and offer accommodations for visitors with disabilities. However, it’s best to check with the museum in advance to ensure that they can meet your specific needs.
- Are Amsterdam’s museums kid-friendly?
- Many of Amsterdam’s museums offer exhibits and activities that are specifically designed for children. However, some museums may be more suitable for older children and adults.
- In conclusion, Amsterdam is a city with a wealth of cultural heritage and its museums offer visitors a chance to explore this in depth. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or technology, there is a museum in Amsterdam that caters to your interests. By visiting these museums, you can gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture, and appreciate its vibrant and diverse cultural scene.