museum
Amsterdam Museum
Amsterdam's city history museum. Its Kalverstraat home is under renovation until 2028; for now it tells the city's story at Westergas and Willet-Holthuysen.
The Amsterdam Museum is the city's own history museum, telling the story of how a small medieval settlement grew into the Amsterdam of today — and where it might be heading. Its collection spans the city's past, present and future, from Golden Age treasures to contemporary life.
Important to know before you plan a visit: the museum's main home, the historic Burgerweeshuis (former civic orphanage) on Kalverstraat, is undergoing a major renovation and is expected to reopen in 2028.
Where to see it now
In the meantime, the museum continues at other locations. Its 'Amsterdam in Motion' presentation is at the Westergas cultural park in Amsterdam-West, and the museum also runs Huis Willet-Holthuysen, a beautifully furnished canal mansion on the Herengracht. Because the arrangements are shifting during the renovation years, it's worth checking the museum's website for current locations and exhibitions before you go.
Good to know
When the Kalverstraat building reopens, it will once again be the main place to dive into the city's story. Until then, the Westergas and Willet-Holthuysen locations are where to experience the museum.
Tips from locals
Check the museum's website first — locations are shifting during the renovation, so confirm what's open before you go.
Right now the city's story is told at 'Amsterdam in Motion' in the Westergas park in Amsterdam-West.
The museum also runs Huis Willet-Holthuysen, a furnished canal mansion on the Herengracht well worth a visit.
The main Kalverstraat building is closed for renovation and due to reopen in 2028.
It's a great first stop for understanding the city before exploring it for yourself.
Did you know?
It's the city's own museum, telling the story of Amsterdam's past, present and future.
Its main home is the Burgerweeshuis on Kalverstraat, a former civic orphanage.
The Kalverstraat building is being renovated and is expected to reopen in 2028.
It was known as the Amsterdams Historisch Museum until 2011.
The museum also runs Huis Willet-Holthuysen, a furnished 17th-century canal mansion.
FAQ
- What is the Amsterdam Museum?
- The city's own history museum, telling the story of Amsterdam's past, present and future.
- Is the main building open?
- No — the Kalverstraat building is under renovation and expected to reopen in 2028.
- Where can I see the museum now?
- At 'Amsterdam in Motion' in the Westergas park and at Huis Willet-Holthuysen on the Herengracht.
- Should I check before visiting?
- Yes — locations are shifting during the renovation, so check the museum's website first.
- What does it cover?
- The history of Amsterdam, from its medieval origins through the Golden Age to today.