Amsterdam is home to some world-famous museums. In fact, there’s a whole museum district in the city, home to some true artistic treasures and fascinating history. Whether you want to visit the city’s largest museum, the Rijksmuseum, or have always wanted to go inside the Anne Frank House, or perhaps you’re an art lover who wants to tick the Van Gogh museum off their bucket list, there’s a museum for everyone. With a whopping 75 museums in Amsterdam, you’re never going to be able to see them all. So we’ve rounded up the best of the best...
VAN GOGH MUSEUM
When you’re in the city of tulips and cheese, you can’t miss this. Amsterdam presents one of its most famous national treasures - Van Gogh, in a museum dedicated to his life and work. This is complemented by other 19th Century artists and contemporaries of Van Gogh. This museum holds an extensive selection of Van Gogh’s work at various stages across his career. Whether you’re familiar with Van Gogh’s work or you’re a newbie to the world of art, this is a place everyone will appreciate.
ANNE FRANK HOUSE
We can’t recommend visiting the Anne Frank House enough. Once you leave, it will change your perspective on life. The Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. Here you can learn all about her time in hiding. Delve back into history to see her struggle during the Nazi regime - she actually lived here with her family in the Secret Annexe and it’s quite a sobering experience to witness the small space that was their home. Buy your ticket in advance.
RIJKSMUSEUM
The largest museum in Amsterdam and one you can’t miss if you’re looking to get cultured on all things Dutch. The Rijksmuseum is one of the city’s most famous and popular art museums. Art lovers in Amsterdam should head to the Rijksmuseum because it’s a national museum showcasing the best of Dutch art and history. It also has one of the biggest and most beautiful libraries in Europe inside. Located in Museum Square, wander around and take in the masterpieces and the vast European art collection.
NEMO SCIENCE MUSEUM
The NEMO Science Museum is a fascinating museum where you can get involved with different experiments and exhibitions. You’ll learn some cool facts here whether you want to find out more about the light and sound phenomena, water power, colour or even the world of shapes. Make new discoveries at the NEMO museum and once you’re done head to the awesome killer outdoor rooftop for a drink and some cool views. Or head out to the Oosterdok and watch the water.
HERMITAGE AMSTERDAM
Located on the banks of the Amstel River, the Hermitage Museum showcases some of the world’s best examples of neoclassical art from the 18th century. Those who have studied art, or are currently studying art will really appreciate what this museum has to show. From 18th century artists, stunning Greek sculptures to portraits from the Golden Age, you can easily lose an afternoon here wandering around and enjoying the art in a modern space.
STEDELIJK MUSEUM
If contemporary art is more your thing, then the Stedelijk museum is for you. The art here is incredible and the space is simply a delight to walk around. This beautiful museum is fresh and modern with bright pops of colour and patterns adorning the walls. Showcasing the very best of modern art, you can get here easily from the Van Gogh Museum and kill two birds with one stone. The entry is quite pricey with an adult ticket costing €17,50 but if you’re a student you can get in for €9. We think it’s worth the money if you appreciate contemporary art.