Explore the Maritime Museum: A Gateway to Amsterdam's Nautical Heritage
Discover Amsterdam's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, historic ships, and captivating stories from the sea.
A brief summary to Maritime Museum
- Kattenburgerplein 1, Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Centrum, 1018 KK, NL
- +31205232222
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
The Maritime Museum in Amsterdam is a captivating destination that transports visitors through the annals of Dutch nautical history. Nestled in a beautifully restored historic warehouse, this museum showcases an extensive collection of maritime artifacts, including ship models, navigational instruments, and paintings that echo the tales of explorers and traders who once sailed the seas. The museum's centerpiece is the replica of the East Indiaman, an awe-inspiring ship that offers an immersive experience of life at sea during the Golden Age of Dutch maritime dominance. As you wander through the museum's interactive exhibits, you will encounter engaging displays that highlight not only the history of shipping and trade but also the maritime culture that has shaped the Netherlands over centuries. From the stories of daring voyages to the innovations in shipbuilding, every corner of the museum invites you to delve deeper into the maritime world. Families will appreciate the hands-on activities designed for children, making it a perfect outing for visitors of all ages. The museum is conveniently open seven days a week, allowing ample opportunity for tourists to explore at their leisure. After soaking in the rich history, you can enjoy the beautiful harbor views from the museum's terrace, or grab a meal at a nearby café, reflecting on the maritime adventures that have defined Amsterdam's identity. A visit to the Maritime Museum is not just an educational journey; it is a celebration of the sea and its profound influence on Dutch culture.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, especially in the mornings.
- Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions or family-friendly events.
- Don't miss the outdoor exhibits along the harbor for additional insights into Amsterdam's maritime past.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the heart of Centrum, the easiest way to reach the Maritime Museum is on foot. Start at Dam Square, which is a central location. From Dam Square, head east along Damstraat until you reach the intersection with Warmoesstraat. Turn right onto Warmoesstraat and continue straight until you reach the intersection with Spuistraat. Turn left onto Spuistraat and walk until you reach the intersection with Kattenburgerstraat. Continue straight on Kattenburgerstraat and you will find the museum at Kattenburgerplein 1. The walk should take about 20 minutes.
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Tram
You can also take a tram to reach the Maritime Museum. From Dam Square, walk to the nearest tram stop, which is 'Dam' (located on the Damrak). Take tram number 26 in the direction of 'Lelylaan'. After a few stops, get off at 'Amsterdam, Kattenburgerstraat'. From there, walk to Kattenburgerplein 1, which is just a 5-minute walk away. The tram ride costs around €3.20 for a single journey.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Centrum. Once you have your bike, head towards the eastern direction. Follow the route along the canals, and you will find bike lanes leading directly to the maritime area. The Maritime Museum is accessible by bike, and you can park your bike at the designated bike racks outside the museum. Just remember to check if there are any rental fees for the bike, which can vary depending on where you rent it.
Attractions Nearby to Maritime Museum
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The king's sloop
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VOC Ship 'Amsterdam' Replica
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ARCAM Architecture Centre Amsterdam
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Buitenzwembad Marineterrein - Outdoor canal swimming
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Homeland Brewery Amsterdam
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NEMO Science Museum
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’t Yland
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Verzetsmuseum Amsterdam - Museum of WWII Resistance
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Entrepotdok
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Stichting De Burcht
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Nieuwe Herengracht
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Micropia
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Memorial to Auschwitz Victims
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Entrepotdoksluis
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National Holocaust Museum
Landmarks nearby to Maritime Museum
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ARTIS main entrance
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Hortus Botanicus
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Fabrieksschoorsteen
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voormalige diamantfabriek BOAS
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Ketelhuis
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Portuguese Synagogue of Amsterdam
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Hekpijlers
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The Dokwerker (Memories of the February strike)
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Jewish Museum
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Jewish Heritage Tours Amsterdam
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Stadsturfpakhuizen
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National Holocaust Names Monument
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Grenspaal
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Rembrandt House Museum
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Bredero-monument (by Piet Esser, 1968)