Museums

The best museums of Amsterdam
listed for you.

Amsterdam is famous for its incredible museums, and we understand that you’d appreciate a clear overview to help you choose the ones you simply can’t miss or that match your interests best. That’s why we’ve listed the very best museums and our favorites, including personal tips. Enjoy everything Amsterdam’s museums have to offer!

Starry Night painting Van Gogh

1. Van Gogh museum

The Van Gogh Museum is the place to see all of Van Gogh’s masterpieces in one location. With the included audio guide, you’ll explore over 200 paintings, drawings, and letters, offering insight into the life and genius of this iconic artist. From his famous Sunflowers to his powerful self-portraits, the museum showcases Van Gogh’s work like never before.
It’s no wonder the Van Gogh Museum is Amsterdam’s most visited museum: a must-see when visiting Amsterdam.

Our recommendations
Book your tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly.
An audio guide (available in 12 languages) is included with the ticket and shares fascinating stories about the paintings and the life of Van Gogh himself. While a guided tour offers even more insights, it’s not essential.
Tickets are not sold on-site, so you’ll need to book them online beforehand.
Your ticket also grants access to the temporary exhibitions, which are highly rated and excellently curated, featuring world-renowned painters.
Visitors cycle through the iconic arches of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, captured in a vertical frame.

2. Rijksmuseum

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Netherlands at the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s world-famous art museum. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic institution showcases masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, and Frans Hals’ The Merry Drinker. The collection also features works by other renowned artists such as Jan Steen, Jacob van Ruisdael, and Pieter de Hooch, alongside stunning artifacts and decorative arts spanning over 800 years of history.

3. Stedelijk Museum

If you are interested in modern and contemporary art, The Stedelijk Museum is the museum to visit in Amsterdam. With its impressive collection of over 90,000 works, you’ll encounter groundbreaking pieces from renowned artists like Mondrian, Chagall, and Warhol. The museum’s exhibitions cover a wide range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, and new media, providing a rich exploration of modern art. From Rietveld’s iconic chair to the thought-provoking contemporary installations, the Stedelijk Museum offers something for every art enthusiast.
If you like modern art we are sure you will love this museum!

Our recommendations
Admission is free for people under 18 years. You do need to book these free tickets online. Students get a discount of more than 50%.
Free cancellation or rescheduling is available until 24 hours before your visit date.
The architecture of the building is very special. Don’t forget to look around and enjoy the building itself as well.
The Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are located next door, making it easy to combine your visit.
Fabrique des Lumieres

4. Fabrique des Lumières

Discover the mesmerizing world of light and art at Fabrique des Lumières, located in the iconic Westergasfabriek. This digital art center brings masterpieces by Van Gogh, Klimt, and others to life with stunning projections and immersive music.
Surround yourself with color, sound, and motion in a one-of-a-kind audiovisual experience perfect for all ages. Whether for a day out, a romantic date, or a cultural adventure, it’s an experience not to be missed.

– REST OF MUSEUMS CONTINUES AFTER CITY PASSES INFORMATION BOX –

City Passes

Amsterdam offers different City Passes to enjoy all the museums in an affordable way. They are often combined with Canal Cruises and Free Public Transport in the city. We’ve listed the best options for you.

I amsterdam City Card without Van Gogh Museum
(100+ museums, Canal Cruise, City Public Transport & Bike Rental)
€60 – BOOK HERE

I amsterdam City Card including Van Gogh Museum
(100+ museums, Canal Cruise, City Public Transport & Bike Rental)
€70 – BOOK HERE

Amsterdam Pass
(Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum or Moco Museum + Canal Cruise + The Rembrandt House Museum or Heineken Experience + City Public Transport)
€61 – BOOK HERE

Go City Amsterdam All-Inclusive
(40+ attractions, including the Rijksmuseum, Moco Museum, Heineken Experience, Canal Cruises, and much more.
The exact list of included sights can be found here.)
€89 – BOOK HERE

5. Royal Palace Amsterdam

Experience the history and beauty of the Royal Palace on Dam Square, one of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks. Originally built as the city’s Town Hall during the Dutch Golden Age, the palace now serves as the official residence of the Dutch Royal Family. Inside, you’ll find stunning rooms with grand chandeliers, marble floors, and beautiful artworks. A visit to the Royal Palace offers a fascinating look into Amsterdam’s past and the elegance of its royal heritage.

6. Moco Museum Amsterdam

Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at the Moco Museum in Amsterdam. Known for its innovative exhibitions and dynamic collections, Moco brings together modern and street art from iconic artists like Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Damien Hirst. With a focus on thought-provoking and boundary-pushing art, Moco offers visitors an immersive experience that challenges perceptions and ignites creativity. A visit to Moco Museum promises a unique opportunity to engage with some of the most influential and provocative art of our time.

7. Nemo Science Museum

NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is a thrilling experience for all ages, with interactive exhibits that engage both adults and children. While it’s especially fun for kids, who can explore science through hands-on activities, adults will also appreciate the museum’s thought-provoking displays on technology, energy, and the wonders of the natural world. It’s a place where curiosity and discovery are encouraged, making it a fantastic destination for the whole family.

8. Anne Frank House

Visiting the Anne Frank House is a moving and educational experience that brings the story of Anne Frank’s life and legacy to life. Located in the house where Anne hid with her family during World War II, the museum allows visitors to explore the rooms where Anne wrote her famous diary. With insightful exhibits, you’ll learn about her time in hiding, the challenges they faced, and the impact of her words offering a deeper understanding of history.

Our recommendations
An audio tour (available in 9 languages) is included with the ticket. The audio tour is also adapted for children, making the visit suitable for them as well.
Guided tours are not available, but it is possible to book a 30-minute introductory program to learn more about the history.
Tickets tend to sell out quickly. Every Tuesday at 10 am CET, tickets become available online for visits six weeks later. Be sure to book on time.
There are also excellent walking tours available in the neighborhood of Anne Frank’s hiding place, where the guide will show less known locations and share the history and stories from that time.