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Explore the Rich Maritime Heritage at the National Maritime Museum

Discover the Netherlands' maritime heritage at the National Maritime Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and stunning historical artifacts.

4.5

Dive into the fascinating world of maritime history at the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam. This captivating museum showcases the Netherlands' profound connection to the sea through interactive exhibits, beautifully preserved ships, and engaging storytelling.

A brief summary to National Maritime Museum

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds.
  • Check the museum’s website for any special exhibitions or events prior to your visit.
  • Consider getting a combined ticket for other nearby attractions to save on entry fees.
  • Bring your camera, as there are many picturesque spots around the museum's exterior.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Leiden Central Station, exit the station and walk towards the bus stop. Take bus 43 towards 'Amsterdam, Bijlmer Arena'. This bus will take you directly to Amsterdam. After approximately 40-50 minutes, get off at 'Amsterdam, Kattenburgerplein'. From the bus stop, walk towards the Kattenburgerplein. The National Maritime Museum will be on your left at Kattenburgerplein 1. It is a short walk of about 5 minutes.

  • Train

    At Leiden Central Station, take a train to Amsterdam Centraal. Trains to Amsterdam are frequent and the journey takes around 35 minutes. Once you arrive at Amsterdam Centraal, exit the station and follow the signs for the metro. Take metro line 52 (North-South line) from Centraal Station towards 'Zuid'. Get off after 2 stops at 'Amsterdam, Centraal Station'. From there, walk to the bus stop and take bus 22 towards 'Amsterdam, Kattenburgerplein'. The National Maritime Museum is located at Kattenburgerplein 1, just a short walk from the bus stop.

  • Bicycle

    If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle in Leiden. From the city center, cycle north towards the N206 road, following the signs for Amsterdam. This route will take you through scenic areas, and it takes about an hour and a half to reach Amsterdam. Once you arrive in Amsterdam, head towards the Kattenburgerplein. The National Maritime Museum is located at Kattenburgerplein 1, which you can reach by cycling along the waterfront.

  • Public Transport

    From Leiden, take the train to Amsterdam Centraal. Once at Amsterdam Centraal Station, transfer to tram line 26 towards 'Zuid'. After 3 stops, get off at 'Kattenburgerstraat'. From there, walk towards Kattenburgerplein. The National Maritime Museum is located at Kattenburgerplein 1, which is a short walk from the tram stop.

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Discover more about National Maritime Museum

Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, the National Maritime Museum stands as a monument to the Netherlands' illustrious maritime past. This magnificent museum is not just a place to observe artifacts; it is an immersive experience that allows visitors to engage deeply with the stories of seafarers, explorers, and traders who shaped the nation’s history. As you step inside, you are greeted by the striking architecture of the museum, a former naval storehouse dating back to the 17th century, which itself tells a story of maritime enterprise and craftsmanship. The museum's extensive collection includes an array of historical ships, navigational instruments, and maps, all of which illustrate the Dutch Golden Age of exploration. One of the highlights is the replica of the East Indiaman, which allows visitors to step aboard and experience life at sea during the height of maritime trade. The museum also offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for families, ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy and learn from the rich displays. Throughout the year, the National Maritime Museum hosts special exhibitions and events that delve deeper into maritime history, making each visit unique. The onsite café provides a relaxing spot to enjoy refreshments while taking in views of the picturesque harbor, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a family with children, or simply curious about maritime culture, the National Maritime Museum is an essential stop on your Amsterdam itinerary.

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