Museum Square

Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square


In the heart of cultural Amsterdam explore one of Amsterdam’s famous art museums, enjoy the thrills of a live event, or just relax on the grass of this park.

Explore Museum Square ahead of your planned museum visits to take in the elegant sights and bustling atmosphere of one of the most-visited green spaces in Amsterdam.

Stand in front of the massive and iconic I Amsterdam letters for a touristy photo to prove you made it to this legendary European capital. Wander over to the Ass’s Ear, a triangular and supposedly ear-shaped stretch of lawn that rises from one corner of the square. This feature covers part of the underground additions made to the square during its 1999 remodeling, including a supermarket where you can buy drinks and sandwiches for a picnic on the lawn.

On a sunny day, relax by the water feature near the Rijksmuseum or glide across its surface in winter, when the pond is converted to an ice-skating rink.

Originally laid out for the International Colonial and Export Exhibition in 1883, Museum Square became a permanent fixture after the completion of the Rijksmuseum in 1885. Better known by the Dutch name of Museumplein (“plein” meaning “square”), this central hub remains a vital part of a culturally and historically rich district today.

While named for the massive Rijksmuseum at its northeastern end, Museum Square has two more world-famous art museums adorning it and is also overlooked by the Amsterdam Concert Hall (Concertgebouw) and other elegant buildings.

The elegant Rijksmuseum focuses on ancient art, including The Night Watch by Rembrandt and many other famous paintings by Dutch masters, while the ultra-modern Stedelijk Museum (City Museum) showcases contemporary creations. In between, the partly underground Van Gogh Museum tells the heartbreaking story of one of the world’s most famous painters.

Check Amsterdam’s cultural events guide to see if there is a festival, market or concert planned in the square during your stay. One of the most iconic community celebrations that is not to be missed is Koningsdag (Kings Day) on April 27, when Museum Square is heaving with partying locals and becomes a sea of orange.

Museum Square is freely accessible year round. The green square is located to the southeast of the city center and is easily reached on foot, by bicycle, tram, hop-on/hop-off canal cruise, bus or taxi.

Tours & day trips

See all 708 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 316 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 127 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 65 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

4.5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 25, Amsterdam
Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

3.5 out of 5
53 Vossiusstraat, Amsterdam, North Holland
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy
citizenM Amsterdam South

citizenM Amsterdam South

4 out of 5
Prinses Irenestraat 30, Amsterdam, North Holland
citizenM Amsterdam South
Eden Hotel Amsterdam

Eden Hotel Amsterdam

4.5 out of 5
Amstel 144, Amsterdam
Eden Hotel Amsterdam
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

4 out of 5
Pieter Cornelisz. Hooftstraat 2, Amsterdam
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel
Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

4.5 out of 5
Leidsekade, 97, Amsterdam, North Holland
Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 12, Amsterdam
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel
De Bedstee Boutique Capsules

De Bedstee Boutique Capsules

2.5 out of 5
Jan Willem Brouwersstraat 25, Amsterdam
De Bedstee Boutique Capsules
Hotel Washington

Hotel Washington

2 out of 5
Frans Van Mierisstraat 10, Amsterdam
Hotel Washington
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Museum Square

In Museum Square, Amsterdam, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including shopping and exciting adventures. This vibrant area is perfect for a day trip filled with the best sightseeing opportunities, allowing tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage of the city. With attractions nearby, Museum Square serves as an ideal starting point for unforgettable experiences in Amsterdam.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Museum Square, visit the Flower Market, just 1.3km away, for vibrant blooms and souvenirs. De Hallen, located 1.4km away, offers a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shops. Royal Coster Diamonds, only 322m away, is perfect for exquisite gifts.

Recreation

At the Olympic Stadium, immerse yourself in energetic sports activities and events, just 1.6km from Museum Square. The Concertgebouw offers a rich musical experience with its exceptional performances, located a mere 161m away. For tranquillity, Beatrixpark, also 1.6km away, provides a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

Adventure

Circuit Park Zandvoort, located 24.1km from Museum Square, offers thrilling motor racing experiences amidst an energetic atmosphere. For karting enthusiasts, Bleekemolens Race Planet Amsterdam, situated 8.0km away, delivers an exhilarating adventure. Families can enjoy outdoor camping at Recreation Mijnden, located 19.3km from the square.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Museum Square. Enjoy a romantic evening at the Royal Theater Carre, indulge in a cinematic adventure at Theater Tuschinski, or sip exquisite cocktails at the House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience, all within a short stroll from the square.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Museum Square

Within and around Museum Square, visitors can explore a vibrant array of attractions including art museums, various museums, and the charming piazza. This locale is perfect for those seeking a rich cultural experience, making it an ideal destination for families and city explorers alike. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic and historical treasures that Amsterdam has to offer.

  • Van Gogh Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh at this remarkable museum, showcasing the largest collection of his artworks. Experience the emotional depth of his paintings and explore his life through various exhibitions, all set within a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
  • Dam Square: A bustling hub of activity, Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam. Surrounded by historic buildings and lively street performances, it offers a perfect blend of culture and city vibes, making it an ideal spot to soak up the local atmosphere.
  • Anne Frank House: Step into history at the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank penned her famous diary. This poignant museum offers a deeply moving experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the impact of World War II and the importance of tolerance and human rights.

Best time to go to Museum Square

The best time to visit Museum Square can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Museum Square falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Museum Square falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
November46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Museum Square

To save money on your visit to Museum Square, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February for lower accommodation prices. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Stay on a Monday for the cheapest rates, and consider eco-friendly hotels for budget-friendly options. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by price and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, take advantage of free activities in the area and utilise the efficient public transport system to explore Amsterdam affordably.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Museum Square are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Museum Square is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Museum Square is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Museum Square is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you wish to stay in. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can view sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Museum Square hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.