Amsterdam in winter carries a softer, quieter charm. The canals are wrapped in mist, festive lights glow above narrow streets, and the city naturally slows down – making the perfect time to dive into art, history and culture without the usual crowds. The Dutch capital has more than 70 museums, and many of them rank among the most important in Europe. If you’re planning a winter trip, here are the must-visit museums that will warm you up even on the coldest days.
Rijksmuseum – the heart of Dutch art and history
The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s cultural crown jewel and a place you simply cannot skip. Its collection covers more than 800 years of Dutch history, including masterpieces such as Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and several works by Vermeer, Hals, Steen and countless others.
Visitor tip: Buy your ticket online in advance and arrive early for the most peaceful experience.
Opening hours: daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closing time may vary during special exhibitions).
Ticket price: €22.50 for adults; free for under-18s.
Van Gogh Museum – an intimate journey through a brilliant mind
Home to the largest Van Gogh collection in the world, this museum is an emotional, beautifully curated journey through the life of Vincent van Gogh. Winter is the ideal time to visit because the galleries are less crowded, allowing you to stand in front of his wheat fields, olive groves and self-portraits without rushing.
Visitor tip: You must reserve a timed entry ticket in advance – no same-day walk-in tickets.
Opening hours: in December 2025 for example, open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Fridays until 9 p.m.
Ticket price: €24 for adults (as of 2025)
Anne Frank House – a moving, unforgettable experience
The Anne Frank House is one of Europe’s most emotionally powerful museums. Walking through the Secret Annex, seeing the small rooms and hearing personal testimonies creates a deep connection to one of the most important stories of the 20th century.
Visitor tip: Tickets sell out fast—in winter too. Book online up to weeks in advance.
Opening hours: typically open daily from about 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (check exact December/January schedule) – no guaranteed hours in all months. Ticket price: Varies; adult tickets generally around €14–€15 (check official site for winter 2025).
Stedelijk Museum – for lovers of modern and contemporary art
The Stedelijk is Amsterdam’s boldest art space, dedicated to modern and contemporary masterpieces. Expect works by Mondrian, Chagall, Kandinsky, Rauschenberg, Warhol, Klee, as well as design objects, photography and large-scale installations.
Visitor tip: Check the winter exhibitions schedule in advance – these are often the highlight.
Opening hours and ticket price vary depending on exhibitions; general hours often 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
Moco Museum – playful, modern and very Instagram-friendly
The Moco Museum is set in a charming old villa near Museumplein and is perfect for visitors who enjoy contemporary icons such as Banksy, Kusama, Basquiat and KAWS. Exhibitions are interactive, vibrant and ideal if you want something light, modern and visually striking.
Visitor tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds for the best photos.
Opening hours: frequently 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; check their website for exact winter times.
Ticket price: typically around €18–€20 for an adult basic entry.
NEMO Science Museum – perfect for families (and curious adults)
NEMO is a hands-on science playground spread over five floors. From chemistry experiments to physics tricks and digital technology, this museum is fun learning at its best.
Visitor tip: Spend the morning here and then head into the city centre for the afternoon galleries.
Opening hours: usually 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday in winter.
Ticket price: around €17.50 adults.
Tropenmuseum – a colourful escape from winter
Tropenmuseum is one of Europe’s most impressive museums dedicated to world cultures. Its exhibitions explore traditions, rituals and art from Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas. The museum’s warm colours and immersive rooms offer a beautiful contrast to the grey Dutch winter.
Visitor tip: Use the free audio guide (often included) to understand the cultural context of exhibitions.
Opening hours: typical winter hours 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.
Ticket price: around €12.50 adults.
H’ART Museum – major international exhibitions
Formerly part of the Hermitage network, the renewed H’ART Museum hosts large thematic and international exhibitions. Displays often combine art, design, fashion and history, making it a great winter cultural stop.
Visitor tip: Look up the current exhibition in advance and buy combo tickets if available.
Opening hours: generally 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Ticket price: around €17 adults (varies with special exhibitions).
Rembrandt House Museum – step directly into the painter’s world
One of Amsterdam’s most atmospheric museums, the Rembrandt House allows you to walk through the actual home and studio where Rembrandt lived and worked for nearly 20 years. The space is reconstructed to look exactly as it did in the 17th century, and daily demonstrations show how Rembrandt created his etchings.
Visitor tip: Don’t miss the live etching demonstration—several times a day.
Opening hours: daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in much of winter.
Ticket price: €21.50 for adults, €15 for young adults (18-25)
Why winter is the best time for museum-hopping in Amsterdam
Winter in Amsterdam may be cold and grey, but that’s exactly what makes museums the perfect activity. With fewer tourists, calmer galleries and a cozy atmosphere, you can spend hours wandering through world-class collections in peace—and warm up afterward with a hot chocolate in one of the many cafés around Museumplein.
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam this winter, make room in your itinerary for at least a few of these museums. Each one offers a different perspective on the city—and together, they create a cultural experience that is every bit as magical as Amsterdam’s canals in winter.
