National Maritime Museum Amsterdam
Explore centuries of maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam, featuring a replica 18th-century ship and immersive exhibits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
National Maritime Museum Amsterdam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of maritime history at the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam, featuring a replica 18th-century ship and immersive exhibits.
"A must-visit for maritime history lovers, with an incredible replica ship and engaging displays."
🚢 Explore the Ship
Don't miss exploring the full-size replica of 'The Amsterdam' ship! It's a highlight for many visitors.
⏳ Check Exhibit Times
Some interactive exhibits or special presentations might have specific showtimes. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Amsterdam
Replica 18th-century merchant ship
Step aboard a full-size replica of an 18th-century VOC ship and experience life at sea.

Virtual Voyages
Interactive exhibits
Embark on immersive virtual journeys through maritime history and explore the world's oceans.

Historic Storehouse
Museum building
Explore the stunning architecture of the former Dutch East India Company storehouse, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Sufficient Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Explore the Ship
Don't miss exploring the full-size replica of 'The Amsterdam' ship! It's a highlight for many visitors.
⏳ Check Exhibit Times
Some interactive exhibits or special presentations might have specific showtimes. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially on the ship. Wear comfortable shoes for the best experience.
📍 Off the Beaten Path
It's a bit away from the main tourist hubs, but well worth the visit for maritime history buffs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Explore the Ship
Don't miss exploring the full-size replica of 'The Amsterdam' ship! It's a highlight for many visitors.
⏳ Check Exhibit Times
Some interactive exhibits or special presentations might have specific showtimes. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially on the ship. Wear comfortable shoes for the best experience.
📍 Off the Beaten Path
It's a bit away from the main tourist hubs, but well worth the visit for maritime history buffs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam for its impressive replica ship, 'The Amsterdam,' and its engaging interactive exhibits. The historic building itself is also a significant draw. Some find it a bit off the beaten path, but most agree it's a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in maritime history.
"Exhibitions were nice, but the main attraction for me was the reconstructed Dutch merchant ship, "Amsterdam". The view from outside is amazing, but you can also visit the inside decks and hold, to get an idea of what it was like to sail in these ships. Don't miss the short movie of the old Amsterdam harbor screened inside the ship. The wide screen, combined with the gentle swaying of the ship in the water, makes for a unique experience."
Yaron Adler
"Free entry during the SAIL event 2025 taking place in August, thus highly recommended. Has exhibitions on three sides of the building and an “Amsterdam” ship replica for tours. Facilities include toilets, lockers, children’s cinema, cafes, a souvenir shop, etc."
nora
"The replica is very nice and the ship models. The rest of the exhibitions is, for my taste, maybe nice for adults but not much for children."
Rudi Van Arend
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on Kattenburgerplein. You can reach it by tram (lines 22 or 26 to the 'Oostelijke Handelskade' stop), bus, or a pleasant walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Many visitors find it a scenic walk from the station.
Yes, there is paid parking available near the museum. However, public transport is highly recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs in Amsterdam.
Absolutely! It's a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal Station, offering views of the Eastern Docklands.
While not a primary mode of transport for most, the museum is situated in a maritime area, and boat tours might pass by or dock nearby, offering a unique perspective.
Taking public transport like trams or buses from Centraal Station is the most budget-friendly option. Walking is free and offers great city views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing for adults, children, and concessions. Booking online is often recommended.
It's highly recommended to book your National Maritime Museum Amsterdam tickets online in advance, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot and potentially save time.
Opening hours can change seasonally. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for children, students, seniors, and groups. Check the museum's ticketing page for details on any available concessions.
Many attractions in Amsterdam are included in the City Card. It's best to verify if the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam is covered by your specific City Card.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the museum and the replica ship. You might need more time if you want to delve deeply into every exhibit.
The replica 18th-century merchant ship 'The Amsterdam' is a major highlight. The interactive exhibits and the historic building itself are also highly recommended.
Yes, the museum offers interactive exhibits and the chance to explore a real ship, which is usually a hit with children.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website. They can offer deeper insights into the collections and history.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always check for signage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum typically has a cafe or restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals. Check their website for current offerings.
It's generally not permitted to consume your own food and drinks inside the museum galleries. There might be designated areas for picnics outside.
The surrounding Eastern Docklands area has various restaurants and cafes. You can also find many options back towards the city center near Centraal Station.
Museum cafes usually offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other beverages.
Prices at museum cafes are generally comparable to other tourist-oriented establishments in the city.
📸 📸 Photography
The replica ship 'The Amsterdam' offers fantastic photo opportunities. The historic building's exterior and interior courtyards are also very photogenic.
Tripods and professional photography equipment are often restricted inside museums to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits. Check the museum's policy.
While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always look for signs indicating restrictions.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photographic conditions.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited in most urban areas, including around museums, for safety and privacy reasons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets in advance to save time, and plan for at least a few hours to allow kids to fully enjoy the ship and the interactive displays. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the ship's decks.
⚓ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
Take your time to absorb the stories and artifacts within the historic UNESCO World Heritage building. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the Netherlands' significant maritime legacy, making it a rewarding experience for any enthusiast.
🚶 Day-Trippers from Amsterdam
While you might not see every exhibit in depth, focusing on the ship and a few key interactive displays will give you a great feel for the museum's offerings. Booking tickets online can help maximize your time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring 'The Amsterdam' Replica Ship
The experience of being on 'The Amsterdam' is often described as immersive, allowing you to feel the sway of the ship and appreciate the scale of these historical vessels. It’s a fantastic way to understand the daily life and working conditions of sailors during that era. The attention to detail in the replica makes it a truly memorable part of any visit.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating the ship's decks and various levels. The ship itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the time and a central piece of the museum's collection, drawing significant attention from visitors of all ages.
The Historic Building and Its Significance
Inside, the museum seamlessly blends historical architecture with modern exhibition spaces. The vast halls that once stored valuable goods from across the globe now display artifacts and stories of maritime exploration, trade, and naval history. The contrast between the old stone and wood and the contemporary displays creates a unique atmosphere for learning.
Exploring the building is an experience in itself. Take time to admire the vaulted ceilings, the sturdy beams, and the overall sense of history that permeates the space. It provides a fitting backdrop for the stories of seafaring adventures and the evolution of maritime technology.
Interactive Exhibits and Virtual Experiences
A standout feature is the museum's use of virtual reality and immersive technologies. These virtual voyages allow you to experience the thrill of sailing, explore underwater worlds, or witness historical naval battles firsthand. Such innovative approaches bring the past to life in a way that traditional displays cannot, offering a dynamic and memorable learning experience.
These modern elements ensure that the museum remains relevant and exciting for contemporary audiences, complementing the historical context provided by the ship and the building. They are particularly popular with younger visitors and those who enjoy a more engaging, technology-driven approach to learning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit