Amsterdam Museums: Experience Culture

Amsterdam’s identity is defined by its masterpieces and its historic canals. Whether you're here for the Dutch Golden Age or modern science at NEMO, choosing the right accommodation is key. Our guide connects the city's most visited museums with hand-picked B&Bs and apartments. Discover how to navigate the museum district like a local, stay in a charming canal house, and enjoy a personalized cultural getaway that goes beyond the typical tourist path.

The "Big Three": Art and History Up Close

Rijksmuseum - Masterpieces

The Rijksmuseum is among the world's most prestigious art museums, boasting an unparalleled collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces.

  • World-famous icons: See Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and masterpieces by Vermeer.

  • Historical Splendor: Explore grand galleries, historic artifacts, and intricate still lifes.

  • Architecture: Admire the stunning building and find peace in its idyllic gardens.

  • Stay nearby: Located centrally on Museumsplein, with charming B&Bs just steps away.

Van Gogh Museum - Colors

The Van Gogh Museum houses the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, offering a deep dive into his turbulent and brilliant life.

  • Top Works: Admire The Potato Eaters, Sunflowers, and Almond Blossom.

  • Artistic Evolution: Trace his journey from dark early works to vibrant, light-filled compositions.

  • Personal Touch: Original letters and personal items bring the man behind the canvas to life.

  • Comfort: Central location with cozy apartments and B&Bs in the immediate vicinity.

Anne Frank House - Touching History

The Anne-Frank-House is a profound place of remembrance and one of Amsterdam’s most moving historical sites.

  • The Secret Annex: Walk through the original rooms where Anne Frank and her family hid during WWII.

  • The Diary: Gain insight into Anne’s writings and her poignant fate.

  • Humanity: Explore exhibitions on the Holocaust, courage, and human rights.

  • Reflection: Stay at a quiet Bed & Breakfast nearby, the perfect setting for reflection after a powerful visit.(*)

Museums for Every Interest

Nemo Science museum for families in Amsterdam

For Families

The NEMO Science Museum is a paradise for children, where they can play, experiment, and discover. Expert Tip: Don't miss the museum's large rooftop terrace. It features a panoramic restaurant and an open-air exhibition with a unique viewpoint over the city. Best of all, the terrace and restaurant are accessible to everyone for free, without needing a museum ticket! For a journey into distant lands and cultures, visit Wereldmuseum Amsterdam. Tip: The Corpus Museum in Oegstgeest (near Leiden) offers a fascinating "journey through the human body.*

Moco Museum amsterdam

For Modern Art Lovers

The Moco Museum captivates with contemporary art, featuring iconic works by Banksy and other modern masters. Meanwhile, the Stedelijk Museum offers a vast collection ranging from trailblazing paintings to groundbreaking design.*

For History Enthusiasts

For History Enthusiasts

H’ART Museum (formerly Hermitage) presents rotating world-class exhibitions. At the Rembrandt House Museum, art lovers can step into the painter’s 17th-century world; the restored building shows exactly how he lived and worked. Industrial Heritage: Zaans Museum & Zaanse Schans Just 15 minutes away, this open-air site is a journey into Dutch traditions. Inside the Zaans Museum, you can experience the "Verkade Experience" (a historic chocolate and biscuit factory). Outside, you can explore the open-air museum with its iconic working windmills, traditional clog makers, and cheese farms. It’s a must-see for those staying in a countryside B&B.

Sailors, Merchants, and Hidden Treasures

The National Maritime Museum amsterdam

The National Maritime Museum

A must-see for anyone interested in the Dutch Golden Age. Step aboard the impressive replica of the East Indiaman Amsterdam, explore historic ship models, and learn about the legendary VOC (Dutch East India Company).

Our Lord in the Attic Amsterdam

Our Lord in the Attic

This unique museum takes you back to the 17th century. While it looks like a merchant's house, the top floor hides a secret church—a testament to religious tolerance in a bustling trading city.

Amsterdam Museum

Amsterdam Museum

To truly understand Amsterdam’s evolution from a small fishing village to a global trade hub, this is the place to go. Multimedia installations and interactive maps make the city's transformation tangible..*

Art with a Twist

street art museum amsterdam

Straat Museum

The world’s largest street art and graffiti museum, featuring massive murals by international artists in an industrial setting.

Fabrique des Lumières amsterdam

Fabrique des Lumières

An immersive audiovisual experience where famous artworks are projected onto the walls of a former gas plant, accompanied by a stunning soundtrack.*

FOAM Museum

FOAM Museum

A hotspot for photography enthusiasts, showcasing everything from fashion photography to socially critical contemporary projects.

Beyond the Museum: Explore the Neighborhoods...

canal cruise in amsterdam

Canal Cruise:

Many boat tours depart near Museumplein. See the city's picturesque "dancing houses" from the water.

jordaan district in amsterdam

The Jordaan

Discover Amsterdam’s most beautiful district, right around the corner from the Anne Frank House. Expect boutiques and great cafés.

Foodhallen in amsterdam

Foodhallen

After visiting the Stedelijk, head here for local and international street food in a trendy indoor market.

vondelpark amsterdam

Vondelpark

The city's "green lung" is right next to the Rijksmuseum - perfect for a stroll or a relaxing break.

The 9 Streets (De Negen Straatjes)

The 9 Streets (De Negen Straatjes)

Charming shopping streets near the Anne Frank House filled with vintage boutiques and designer labels.

oude kerk amsterdam

Oude Kerk

From the Rembrandt House, walk to the city's oldest church, located right in the heart of the Red Light District.

Stylish and Cozy: B&Bs in Amsterdam

Ready for your cultural getaway? Don't just visit Amsterdam, live it. Browse our collection and book your Amsterdam B&B today for an unforgettable, personalized experience.

FAQ

Essential tips for your museum trip and B&B stay

*Photo credits:

  • Anne Frank, May 1942, © Photo collection Anne Frank House

  • DigiDaan, © Nemo Science Museum

  • Studio Irma, © Moco Museum

  • Rebekka Mell, © Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

  • Olivier Groen, © Amsterdam Museum

  • Het Rijk der Farao's, © Fabrique-des-Lumieres Amsterdam