Allard Pierson Museum Amsterdam
Discover ancient worlds at the Allard Pierson Museum, featuring Egyptian mummies, Roman pottery, and captivating Fayum Portraits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Allard Pierson Museum Amsterdam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient worlds at the Allard Pierson Museum, featuring Egyptian mummies, Roman pottery, and captivating Fayum Portraits.
"A charming museum with unique interactive displays that bring history to life!"
🎯 Explore Interactive Displays
Don't miss the pull-out drawers with Roman pottery! It's a unique way to see details.
🏛️ Check Special Exhibitions
Exhibitions like 'Amsterdam Eet' offer fresh perspectives on history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fayum Portraits
Vivid Roman-era portraits offering a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life and art.

Roman Pottery Drawer
Antiquities Collection
Pull-out drawers reveal intricate Roman pottery shards with fascinating depictions.

Egyptian Mummies & Coffin Lids
Explore ancient Egyptian burial practices with detailed coffin lids and preserved remains.

Amsterdam Eet Exhibition
Discover the history of food in Amsterdam through diverse dishes and ingredients.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Relaxing Visit
Embrace the Interactive Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Interactive Displays
Don't miss the pull-out drawers with Roman pottery! It's a unique way to see details.
🏛️ Check Special Exhibitions
Exhibitions like 'Amsterdam Eet' offer fresh perspectives on history.
☕ Cozy Museum Cafe
Enjoy a coffee and relax in the museum's charming cafe after your visit.
🗺️ Discover Hidden Gems
Look for unique finds like an old map of Prague!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Interactive Displays
Don't miss the pull-out drawers with Roman pottery! It's a unique way to see details.
🏛️ Check Special Exhibitions
Exhibitions like 'Amsterdam Eet' offer fresh perspectives on history.
☕ Cozy Museum Cafe
Enjoy a coffee and relax in the museum's charming cafe after your visit.
🗺️ Discover Hidden Gems
Look for unique finds like an old map of Prague!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Allard Pierson Museum for its intimate atmosphere, engaging interactive exhibits like the Roman pottery drawers, and unique collections, particularly the Fayum Portraits and Egyptian artifacts. Some note it's a smaller museum, which can be a positive for a relaxed visit but might feel brief for those seeking extensive displays.
"The museum is rather small, but interesting if you like archeology.
I liked the views from the windows over the canals, I liked the way they displayed the collections, however I found it a little chaotic and we got lost a few times - „have we seen that already?” I still recommend it, especially that I have a Museum Card so no additional charge if you have one.
I liked the brochures with some questions and acitivities for kids so that they could remember what they saw :)"
Adrianna Woś
"Really nice museum. Their temporary exhibition on food culture was extremely amazing and beautiful. They also have a section with old maps which is super cool."
eli
"I think this is an amazing museum. I only explored the archeology area, mainly Egypt to Roman times. It is not super large but each individual item on display is carefully chosen and is very interesting. It is really worthwhile to slow down and appreciate the beauty of each item.
There is very interesting and detailed explanation for each display that helps to understand the significance of each item. (Though letters are small and sometimes reflection of light makes it hard to read. An audio guide would make it even better.)
I was thoroughly fascinated for 90 minutes whilst I covered only a small part of the museum. I will be back to continue my tour. Thank you for the clear amount of expertise and passion that has been put into this."
mike van breugel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Allard Pierson Museum is centrally located in Amsterdam. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station or other central areas.
Driving in central Amsterdam can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's generally recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you do drive, research parking garages in the vicinity beforehand.
Walking is often the most enjoyable way to reach the Allard Pierson Museum from other central Amsterdam attractions. Alternatively, trams are frequent and efficient for covering slightly longer distances.
Amsterdam is a cycling city, and while there might be some street parking, dedicated secure bike parking facilities might be limited right at the museum. It's advisable to check local signage or use a bike rental service that offers secure parking options.
Yes, if you have an Amsterdam Travel Card or a similar public transport pass, you can use it on trams, buses, and metro lines that serve the area around the Allard Pierson Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's always best to check the official Allard Pierson Museum website for the most current admission fees. Look out for potential discounts for students, seniors, or group bookings.
While not always mandatory, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or for special exhibitions. This helps guarantee your entry and can save you time queuing.
Opening hours can differ throughout the year and may vary for special exhibitions. Always consult the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Typically, major museums like the Allard Pierson Museum do not offer regular free entry days. However, it's worth checking their website for any special promotions or events that might include reduced or free admission.
The I amsterdam City Card often includes free entry to many museums in Amsterdam, including potentially the Allard Pierson Museum. Check the current list of included attractions on the I amsterdam City Card website to confirm.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors often rave about the Fayum Portraits, the interactive Roman pottery drawers, and the Egyptian mummies and coffin lids. The 'Amsterdam Eet' exhibition is also a popular draw.
Yes, the museum offers interactive elements like the Roman pottery drawers that can engage younger visitors. The visual nature of the artifacts also appeals to children.
A visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend exploring each exhibit. If there's a special exhibition, you might want to allocate a bit more time.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website. They may offer scheduled tours or options for private group bookings.
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check the signage at the museum or ask staff for clarification.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Allard Pierson Museum has a cozy museum cafe where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and light snacks. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the collections.
The cafe typically offers a selection of beverages, pastries, sandwiches, and other light refreshments. It's a convenient option for a quick bite during your visit.
Being located in central Amsterdam, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the vicinity of the Allard Pierson Museum, offering a wide range of cuisines.
Generally, it's not permitted to consume your own food and drinks inside the museum galleries. However, you can usually enjoy them in designated areas or at the museum cafe.
The museum cafe is a pleasant and convenient option for a lunch break, especially if you want to stay within the museum's atmosphere. It offers a relaxed setting for a light meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage or ask museum staff.
The Fayum Portraits, the detailed Roman pottery shards, and the Egyptian coffin lids offer excellent photographic opportunities due to their intricate details and historical significance.
Tripods and selfie sticks are often not allowed in museums to prevent obstruction and potential damage to exhibits or other visitors. It's best to leave these at your accommodation.
Photography rules for special exhibitions can sometimes differ. It's advisable to check the specific guidelines for the 'Amsterdam Eet' exhibition upon arrival or on the museum's website.
Look for well-lit displays and exhibits with clear details. The interactive Roman pottery drawers, for instance, offer unique close-up photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is not a large, sprawling complex, it provides enough variety to keep children interested for a couple of hours. Consider focusing on the more tactile and visually striking exhibits. The museum cafe also offers a pleasant spot for a break, making it a manageable outing for families exploring Amsterdam.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The museum's focus on specific periods and cultures, such as ancient Egypt and the Roman world, allows for a deeper appreciation of these civilizations. The presence of items like Egyptian coffin lids and the unique interactive displays make for a rich and rewarding exploration of archaeological finds.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Visitors can experience key highlights like the Fayum Portraits and the interactive Roman pottery drawers in a relatively short amount of time, typically 1-2 hours. This makes it perfect for those looking to maximize their sightseeing within a limited schedule.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ancient Egypt at Allard Pierson
Visitors can also marvel at Egyptian mummies, though the extent of their display may vary. These preserved remains are a powerful reminder of ancient practices and the quest for immortality. The museum's Egyptian collection, while perhaps not as extensive as dedicated Egyptology museums, provides a compelling and accessible introduction to the subject for those visiting Amsterdam.
These artifacts are crucial for understanding the cultural and religious landscape of ancient Egypt, and the museum presents them in a way that is both informative and engaging for a broad audience. The detailed artwork on the coffin lids, for example, tells stories and conveys complex mythological narratives.
The Interactive Roman Experience
This method transforms the viewing experience from passive observation to active discovery. Each drawer might contain fragments depicting scenes of daily life, mythology, or intricate patterns, providing a tangible connection to the past. It’s a clever way to showcase numerous small objects without overwhelming the visitor.
This engaging format makes the museum particularly appealing, as it encourages curiosity and allows for closer examination of the craftsmanship and artistry of Roman times. It’s a testament to how museums can creatively present their collections to captivate modern audiences.
Culinary History in 'Amsterdam Eet'
Visitors can discover the stories behind various dishes and ingredients, understanding their cultural significance and evolution. The exhibition likely uses a combination of historical objects, recipes, and narratives to bring Amsterdam's food history to life. It’s a fascinating way to connect with the city on a different level, exploring its social and economic development through the lens of its cuisine.
This exhibition is a testament to the museum's ability to connect broader historical themes with relatable aspects of daily life. It provides a delicious and insightful journey through Amsterdam's heritage, appealing to both history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.
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