Are you wondering what to do in Amsterdam or looking for must-see attractions? Dive into the rich maritime history of the Netherlands at the National Maritime Museum.
Just a short walk from Amsterdam’s bustling city center, our iconic museum offers an immersive journey through the maritime past and present, making it a top attraction for culture lovers, families, and history enthusiasts alike.
Top 6 things to do in the National Maritime Museum
1. Step aboard of the East Indiaman
Step aboard the replica East Indiaman Amsterdam and experience life as an 18th-century sailor. Explore the decks, learn about daily life at sea, and step into the immersive video room to relive the sights and sounds of a bustling 17th-century harbor.
2. Dive into 500 years of Dutch Maritime History
Displaying over fifty masterpieces from the museum’s collection, Republic at Sea tells the remarkable story of The Netherlands as a maritime nation. A dive into the country's history!
3. Explore our Maritime Collection
From navigational instruments to cartography, and from ship decorations to yacht models—explore one of the world's largest and most renowned maritime collections.
4. Marvel at the Royal Barge
The beautifully restored Royal Barge is a stunning 19th-century ceremonial boat that highlights Dutch royal maritime history.
5. Family-friendly exhibitions
Embark on an underwater adventure with Doris the Diver, a fun and interactive experience for young explorers (ages 2+) and their parents. Then, continue your journey with The Tale of the Whale (6+), an engaging exhibition on the history of whaling and marine conservation.
6. Shadows of the Atlantic
Explore the impact of colonialism on maritime history in this powerful exhibition. Combining historical objects, personal stories, and contemporary art, Shadows on the Atlantic sheds light on the realities of the transatlantic trade and its lasting effects.
Plan your visit
A visit to The National Maritime Museum is more than just a journey through maritime history, it's a full experience that combines culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring the decks of the East Indiaman Amsterdam, diving into history in one of our interactive exhibitions, or admiring the stunning views from our monumental 17th-century building, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the museum, making it the perfect activity for a morning or afternoon in Amsterdam. Need a break during your visit? Stop by our café-restaurant, where you can relax with a coffee, enjoy a delicious lunch, or have a refreshing drink while overlooking the water. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before continuing your museum adventure.
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What to Do Nearby? Discover the Oosterdok!
The National Maritime Museum is perfectly located near other must-see spots in Amsterdam.
NEMO Science Museum (5-minute walk)
Just across the water, NEMO Science Museum offers a hands-on, interactive experience perfect for families and curious minds. Climb to the rooftop for a panoramic view of Amsterdam, or dive into exciting science experiments inside.
ARTIS Royal Zoo (10-minute walk)
One of the oldest zoos in Europe, ARTIS Royal Zoo is a fun visit for nature lovers. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, see your favorite animals, and explore Micropia.
Pension Homeland (5-minute walk)
Looking for a cozy place to eat or drink? Pension Homeland is a hidden gem in a former naval base, offering a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and even its own craft brewery. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Why visit The National Maritime Museum
The National Maritime Museum is one of Amsterdam’s top-rated museums, with an 8.3 visitor rating, 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor from over 3,000 reviews, and 4.5 stars on Google based on more than 11,000 reviews. Located in a stunning historic building, we offer the perfect place to explore Dutch (maritime) history through immersive exhibitions, interactive experiences, and breathtaking waterfront views. Whether you're a history lover, a family looking for an engaging day out, or simply curious about the Netherlands’ seafaring past, our museum is a must-visit destination.