Fancy escaping the Netherlands for a moment without boarding a plane? Then you absolutely have to visit the Wereldmuseum Amsterdam. Housed in a stunning historic building in Amsterdam East, this museum offers a fascinating mix of colonial history, contemporary themes, and impressive objects from all over the world. It’s a place where you don’t just look—you learn, feel, and reflect. In this article, I’ll guide you through the museum, share practical tips for your visit, and explain why this cultural outing is still so relevant today.
Book your tickets to the museum in Amsterdam here
A museum steeped in history
Before you even enter an exhibition, the building itself is an experience. Wereldmuseum Amsterdam is located in a national monument on Linnaeusstraat, originally built as the Colonial Institute. You feel it as soon as you walk in: this is no ordinary museum. The building breathes history.
You might still know it by its former name: the Tropenmuseum. Since 2023, it has been part of the National Museum of World Cultures, alongside the branches in Leiden and Rotterdam. The name may have changed, but the museum’s core—its focus on world cultures and societal themes—remains. In fact, that focus has only grown stronger.
What can you see and do?
The museum features a permanent collection made up of objects and stories from across the globe: from Africa to Asia, from Latin America to Oceania. Think jewellery, clothing, tools, and art—each with its own story. You literally walk from continent to continent, with each room giving you a new perspective on the world.
One thing that always sticks with me is the temporary exhibitions. They’re often strikingly relevant. Themes like migration, climate change, and the effects of global trade on local cultures are frequently explored. Everything is beautifully curated, with an eye for detail.
There are also plenty of interactive elements for children: creative workshops, scavenger hunts, and in the past, even a miniature world with houses from different cultures (some visitors miss this feature now). Still, there’s enough to keep kids entertained—especially if you’ve got a curious nine-year-old tagging along, as one visitor enthusiastically describes.
Contemporary themes that resonate
What truly sets Wereldmuseum apart is how it makes you think. You don’t just learn about the past—you learn how the past continues to shape the present. Colonialism is a major theme. The museum doesn’t shy away from difficult topics like inequality, racism, and climate (in)justice. But it presents them in an accessible way.
The exhibitions often make clever links between historical objects and current debates. You suddenly see how deeply connected our world is—and how important it is to be aware of those connections.
Practical info for your visit
Opening hours:
The Wereldmuseum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
Tickets:
A standard entry ticket usually costs €18.00, but with the current deal, you can get one for just €11.70—that’s a lovely 35% discount. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Best to leave large bags at home, but lockers are available.
Good to know:
If you choose a refundable ticket at checkout, you can cancel until 11:59 PM the day before your visit and get a full refund. Handy if your plans suddenly change.
How to get there:
The museum is located at Linnaeusstraat 2, in Amsterdam East. Easily accessible by tram 9 or by bike. Parking nearby is limited and quite pricey, so public transport is definitely your best bet.
Tip: Make it a full day in Amsterdam East
Done with the museum? There’s still plenty to do. Amsterdam East is a vibrant neighbourhood full of cultural hotspots, diverse cuisines, and creative energy.
Head towards nearby Oosterpark for a relaxing stroll or picnic. Or pop into one of the many cosy cafés—like De Biertuin for drinks or Coffee Bru for a cappuccino.
Craving more culture? The nearby Royal Tropical Institute regularly hosts lectures and exhibitions. Or go vintage shopping at the Dappermarkt. You’re already in the area!
A museum that leaves a lasting impression
Wereldmuseum Amsterdam is more than a collection of display cases and old artefacts. It’s a place where your worldview might just get turned upside down. Whether you go for an educational afternoon with the kids, a cultural outing with friends, or simply to discover something new on your own—you’re guaranteed to walk out with a broader perspective.
Book your tickets to the museum in Amsterdam here
And all of this in the heart of Amsterdam East—less than 15 minutes from the city centre. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket to Wereldmuseum Amsterdam, pick your timeslot, and get ready to be amazed by the stories of the world.