Sound and Vision Hilversum
An interactive museum exploring Dutch media history and future through engaging digital exhibits and stunning architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Sound and Vision Hilversum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An interactive museum exploring Dutch media history and future through engaging digital exhibits and stunning architecture.
"More of an interactive experience than a museum, great for families and youth!"
📱 Download the App First
The museum app is key for interactive exhibits and collecting your digital footprint. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring interactive displays. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
Exterior
A stunning modern building with a unique 'skin' of cast glass featuring images, a brilliant architectural statement.
Interactive Media Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Engage with the history and future of Dutch media through games, simulations, and digital experiences.
Digital Footprint Collection
Via the museum app
Use the museum's app to collect a personalized digital footprint as you explore various media themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Interactive Media Experience
Best for Families & Youth
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📱 Download the App First
The museum app is key for interactive exhibits and collecting your digital footprint. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring interactive displays. :athletic_shoe:
Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision in Hilversum
⏳ Allow Ample Time
It's an interactive experience, so plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully engage. :clock1:
☕ Cafe for a Break
The cafeteria offers reasonable prices for snacks and drinks. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
📱 Download the App First
The museum app is key for interactive exhibits and collecting your digital footprint. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring interactive displays. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
It's an interactive experience, so plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully engage. :clock1:
☕ Cafe for a Break
The cafeteria offers reasonable prices for snacks and drinks. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sound and Vision Hilversum for its spectacular architecture and highly interactive, modern approach to exploring media culture. While some find it less engaging for very young children, it's a hit with older kids, teens, and adults looking for an immersive digital experience rather than a traditional museum.
"Enjoyable place for a days out with a family. Not so much as a solo visit from what I noticed. Still you can learn about the media culture of the Netherlands and also some international media. There’s lots of games to play and do there and it’s not so much a museum but more of an interactive experience. If you are looking for a museum visit I would not recommend this place but if you are looking for an interactive experience this would be a great place."
乇Ⱡ Ꭾคɬróռ
"It’s redecorated since 2-3 years ago, the themes are totally changed. Nice changes for the young people, but less for small kids. It’s recommended for kids above 8, and I think it’s reasonable. Elder kids, youths and adults will love here. A lot of programs about how to be an influencer, producer, director and so on."
Mini Mickey
"Museum has a building with spectacular architecture. Very specious. It’s cafeteria is also nice with reasonable prices. Museum content is a bit mix of everything. That’s understandable as it is about radio, tv, gaming and internet at the same time. The interaction with material in museum by phones are interesting for kids and youngsters. However a little overwhelming for kids with too much screens and lights. They get exhausted at the end. For grown ups the content is less interesting. Overall good for a day activity with family. Also all the people working there were very friendly."
Emre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sound and Vision Hilversum is easily accessible by public transport. From Amsterdam, take a train to Hilversum Station, then a short bus ride or a pleasant walk. Many visitors find it a straightforward journey.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website for current parking fees and availability.
Hilversum is bike-friendly, and you can cycle to the museum. There are usually bike racks available for secure parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Sound and Vision Hilversum website for the most up-to-date admission fees and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Opening hours can change seasonally. Always consult the official Sound and Vision Hilversum website for the current operating schedule before your visit.
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions and events related to media. Check their website's 'What's On' section for the latest information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is highly interactive. Download their app to guide you through exhibits and collect a digital footprint of your visit. It's more of an experience than a traditional museum.
The museum is recommended for ages 8 and up. Younger children might find the extensive screens and lights overwhelming, though older kids and teens will likely enjoy it.
Expect a diverse range of exhibits covering radio, TV, gaming, social media, and internet culture. Many are hands-on and digital.
While the app provides a self-guided experience, inquire at the information desk about any available guided tours or special programming.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas. Always look for signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafeteria that offers food and drinks at reasonable prices, making it a convenient spot for a break.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to consume them before entering or use the cafeteria facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The building's exterior, with its unique glass facade, is a prime photo opportunity. Inside, the vast atrium and interactive displays offer dynamic shots.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in or around cultural institutions due to safety and privacy regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents of younger children should be aware that the extensive use of screens and bright lights might be overwhelming for little ones. It's recommended to manage expectations and perhaps focus on specific interactive zones that might appeal to a broader age range. The on-site cafe also provides a convenient spot for a family break.
🧑🎓 Students & Young Adults
Sections on becoming an influencer, director, or producer, alongside gaming and social media themes, are particularly relevant and exciting for this demographic. It's a great place to explore career paths in media and understand the digital landscape they navigate daily.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Visitors can admire the building's exterior and the impressive, spacious atrium upon entering. The integration of art and media within the architectural design makes it a noteworthy landmark for anyone interested in contemporary building design.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Sound and Vision
Inside, the museum boasts a massive, open atrium that gives a sense of scale and modernity. Much of the museum's collection and exhibition space is actually located underground, creating a unique spatial experience. This architectural design is a testament to the institute's mission of preserving and showcasing media history.
Interactive Experience & Digital Footprint
Through the app, you can interact with exhibits, learn about media production roles like influencers and directors, and even collect a 'digital footprint' of your journey through the museum. This digital collection allows you to revisit what you've learned and experienced after your visit, making it a memorable and modern museum outing.
Media Culture Exploration
Exhibits often touch upon themes like the Eurovision Song Contest, the rise of social media, and the evolution of broadcasting technology. While some reviews suggest it might be less engaging for very young children due to the focus on screens, it's highly recommended for older children, teenagers, and adults interested in media studies or simply a fun, educational day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit