13 best museums in Amsterdam you must visit

If you’re heading to the Dutch capital and looking for things to do in Amsterdam, visiting the city’s best museums is a must. From the vibrant street art at STRAAT to the elegant Willet-Holthuysen Museum, these attractions celebrate Amsterdam's unique character.

For 17th-century masterpieces, check out the Rijksmuseum or visit the Anne Frank House to learn about World War II. Whichever museum you choose, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that makes getting hooked on Amsterdam easy.

Amsterdam’s best museums at a glance

Best museum for history: Anne Frank House

Best museum for art: Rijksmuseum

Best museum for families: Van Gogh Museum

Best museum for a unique experience: House of Bols

1. Anne Frank House

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit Anne Frank House?

The Anne Frank House is a powerful historic site where you can gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and the resilience of the human spirit. This museum provides an intimate look at Anne Frank’s life and the Jewish community’s struggle during World War II.

How long can I spend at Anne Frank House?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours here.

Insider tip

Timeslots for museum entry are required, so book your ticket ahead to secure your spot and choose an earlier time to avoid the crowds.

Address and opening hours

Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-10:00 PM every day.

2. Museum of the Canals

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit the Museum of the Canals?

One of the many fun facts about Amsterdam is that you can travel along the canals for 100 kilometers (60 miles) and still be within the city. The Museum of the Canals is one of Amsterdam’s best indoor activities and gives visitors a unique glimpse into the history of these symbolic canals and the daily lives of its inhabitants. For a comprehensive look at the construction and significance of the city’s canals, this is the museum to go to.

How long can I spend at the Museum of the Canals?

Plant to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Consider taking a cruise or stroll along the Amsterdam Canals to complement your visit.

Address and opening hours

Herengracht 386, 1016 CJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open Monday, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM, and Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

3. Willet-Holthuysen Museum

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit the Willet-Holthuysen Museum?

The Willet-Holthuysen Museum, a canal house from the 1800s, offers a fascinating look into the past with its collection of antique art, furniture, and photographs. Explore the preserved rooms frozen in time and learn about the lives of its former residents. The museum’s elegant decor transports you back to the Dutch golden age of refinement.

How long can I spend at the Willet-Holthuysen Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Make time to explore the museum gardens for a peaceful retreat. Make time to explore the museum gardens for a peaceful retreat, one of the best things to do alone in Amsterdam.

Address and opening hours

Herengracht 605, 1017 CE Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

4. Jewish Cultural Quarter

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit the Jewish Cultural Quarter?

The Jewish Cultural Quarter is an open-air museum that explores the traditions, culture, and struggles of Dutch Jews through the centuries. It includes four key sights: the Portuguese Synagogue, the Jewish Museum + Junior, the National Holocaust Museum, and the Hollandsche Schouwburg.

How long can I spend at the Jewish Cultural Quarter?

Plan for a full day to visit all locations in the Jewish Quarter.

Insider tip

Purchase a single ticket to gain access to all four locations.

Address and opening hours

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL Amsterdam, Netherlands. All museums are open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day (the Portuguese Synagogue is closed Saturdays).

5. Rijksmuseum

Best for: art lovers

Why should I visit Rijksmuseum?

The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring masterpieces from Rembrandt to Vermeer that embody the rich artistic heritage of the Netherlands through some of the country’s most treasured artworks. The museum is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture styles by Pierre Cuypers.

How long can I spend at Rijksmuseum?

Plan to spend 2-4 hours.

Insider tip

Be sure to see “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt, one of the museum’s most famous works.

Address and opening hours:

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 9:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

6. Van Gogh Museum

Best for: families

Why should I visit the Van Gogh Museum?

Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum holds the largest collection of Van Gogh’s paintings. From Van Gogh’s masterpieces like “The Bedroom” to exhibitions on his life and work, the museum brings Van Gogh’s legacy alive to highlight his profound influence on modern art. Interactive activities and educational programs also make this museum accessible and enjoyable for families with children of all ages.

How long can I spend at the Van Gogh Museum?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours.

Insider tip

You can read the books Van Gogh once read in the museum’s library (entry by appointment only).

Address and opening hours

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 9:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

7. Escher Museum

Best for: art lovers

Why should I visit the Escher Museum?

Located in the Lange Voorhout Palace, the Escher Museum invites you to experience the optical illusions and impossible constructions that have made Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher a beloved figure in the art world. Let your curiosity run wild with Esscher’s mind-bending artwork that engages the senses.

How long can I spend at Escher Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Stop by the interactive section to create your own Escher-inspired optical illusions.

Address and opening hours

Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag, Netherlands. Open 11:00 AM-5:00 PM every day except Mondays.

8. STRAAT Museum

Best for: art lovers

Why should I visit the STRAAT Museum?

Step inside the STRAAT Museum and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the coolest, quirkiest streets of Amsterdam’s best neighborhoods. This museum is filled with bold murals and vibrant graffiti art created by local and international artists. it’s a great spot for fans of edgy art.

How long can I spend at the STRAAT Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Seek out the hidden alleyways around the museum for additional street art.

Address and opening hours

T.T. Neveritaweg 1, 1033 RC Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open Mondays 12:00 PM-6:00 PM, Tuesday and Thursday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

9. Stedelijk Museum

Best for: art lovers

Why should I visit the Stedelijk Museum?

The Stedelijk Museum is one of Europe’s most important museums, with a diverse collection of over 90,000 pieces across various media, such as photography, sculpture, and painting. Stedelijk’s modern and contemporary art collections, featuring artists like Yayoi Kusama, provide a dynamic contrast to the classical works found in other Amsterdam museums.

How long can I spend at the Stedelijk Museum?

Plan to spend 2-3 hours.

Insider tip

Visit in the evenings for a more relaxing exploration of the art with fewer crowds.

Address and opening hours

Museumplein 10, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

10. Rembrandt House Museum

Best for: art lovers

Why should I visit the Rembrandt House Museum?

Experience the world of Rembrandt, one of Amsterdam’s most famous artists, by visiting his former home and studio. The Rembrandt House Museum provides an intimate look at Rembrandt’s life and work. Meticulously restored rooms and authentic artifacts offer a deep connection to the artist.

How long can I spend at the Rembrandt House Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Attend a demonstration of 17th-century painting techniques to gain a deeper appreciation of Rembrandt’s artistry.

Address and opening hours

Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

11. House of Bols

Best for: food and drink enthusiasts

Why should I visit the House of Bols?

At the House of Bols, discover how Dutch-born company Bols has been producing world-class liqueurs inspired by Amsterdam since 1575. Engage with the rich flavors and heritage of Dutch distilling via interactive exhibits and cocktail bars with expert bartenders. Learn traditional recipes and modern distilling methods to inspire your own brews.

How long can I spend at House of Bols?

Plan for about 1-2 hours.

Highlight

Join a cocktail workshop to learn the art of mixing and blending delicious cocktails.

Address and opening hours

Paulus Potterstraat 12 14 16, 1071 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open Sunday-Thursday, 1:00 PM-6:30 PM, Friday and Saturday, 1:00 PM-9:00 PM.

12. Amsterdam Museum

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit the Amsterdam Museum?

The Amsterdam Museum gives a comprehensive overview of the city's rich history, from its medieval beginnings to its modern-day cultural landscape. Interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and historical artifacts bring Amsterdam's evolution to life.

How long can I spend at Amsterdam Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Stop by the museum’s courtyard for temporary exhibitions and events.

Address and opening hours

Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

13. The Dutch Resistance Museum

Best for: history lovers

Why should I visit the Dutch Resistance Museum?

The Dutch Resistance Museum tells a poignant and detailed account of the Dutch resistance during World War II. The exhibits reveal the inspiring stories of ordinary people who stood up against oppression. Personal narratives and authentic belongings make this a deeply moving and educational museum.

How long can I spend at the Dutch Resistance Museum?

Plan to spend 1-2 hours.

Insider tip

Across the street, you’ll find the Hortus Botanicus, a beautiful green space where you can take a walk and smell the flowers.

Address and opening hours

Plantage Kerklaan 61, 1018 CX Amsterdam, Netherlands. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day.

FAQs

What are the top 3 most famous museums in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is renowned for its rich museum culture, with the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum being three of the most famous. These museums offer a deep dive into history, art, and the legacy of iconic figures, making them must-visit attractions for anyone in the city.

Are there any free museums in Amsterdam?

While many museums in Amsterdam charge an entry fee, some offer free admission on specific days or for particular age groups. For instance, the Amsterdam Museum has free entry for children under 18, and the Rijksmuseum offers free access to its gardens and library. Additionally, the Civic Guard Gallery (Schuttersgalerij) is always free to visit.

What’s the most interesting museum in Amsterdam if I only have time for one?

If you only have time for one museum in Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House is highly recommended. Its powerful and moving narrative of Anne Frank’s life during the Holocaust offers a profound historical experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Are there any fun museums in Amsterdam for families and children?

The Van Gogh Museum is a great choice for families and children due to its interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning about art enjoyable. Additionally, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and the NEMO Science Museum are both educational and entertaining for kids.

For which museums in Amsterdam are guided tours recommended?

Guided tours are highly recommended for the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. These tours provide deeper insights into the exhibits, historical contexts, and the stories behind the artifacts, enriching the overall museum experience. The Van Gogh Museum also offers insightful guided tours that enhance understanding of Van Gogh’s life and works.

Are there any museum passes or discount cards available for visiting multiple museums in Amsterdam?

Yes, Amsterdam offers several museum passes, such as the I Amsterdam City Card and the Museumkaart. These cards provide free or discounted entry to multiple museums, along with additional perks like public transportation access, which is one of the best ways to get around Amsterdam.