Landmark
Museumplein
The grassy plaza linking the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh and Stedelijk, with the I amsterdam letters nearby.
Photo: Erik A M / Google
- Area
- Museumkwartier (Museum Quarter)
- Type
- Landmark
About the experience
Museumplein is a city square in the Museum Quarter. The grassy plaza linking the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh and Stedelijk — the I amsterdam letters that once stood here were removed in December 2018.
Good to know
Museumplein’s open character reflects its development as a cultural gathering place beyond Amsterdam’s historic canal belt. As the city expanded, major cultural institutions helped shape this part of town into a district of broad streets and substantial buildings. The square still offers a striking contrast to the narrow lanes of the centre: here, you can step back far enough to take in museum façades and the changing skyline rather than moving straight from doorway to doorway.
Between exhibitions, the open space is a useful place to slow down, with visitors resting on the grass in suitable weather and people crossing the square on their everyday routes. For a walk with a different emphasis, explore the surrounding residential streets and look up at their decorative brickwork and balconies. You can continue towards Vondelpark for more greenery, or head towards Spiegelgracht, where galleries and antiques shops carry the artistic theme into the canal district.
Photo gallery
Photo: 陈迪 / Google · Photo: Gábor Mező / Google · Photo: Barbara Maria Enriquez Luis / Google · Photo: Alex. / Google · Photo: Frank Koo / Google
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a ticket to visit Museumplein?
Museumplein is a public outdoor square, so you do not need an admission ticket to visit the square itself. The surrounding museums have their own admission arrangements; check their official websites before visiting.
Are the I amsterdam letters still at Museumplein?
No, the large I amsterdam letters that once stood in front of the Rijksmuseum have been removed from Museumplein. Do not plan your visit around finding them here.
How do I get to Museumplein?
Trams serve the Museumplein area, and you can also reach it on foot or by bicycle from elsewhere in central Amsterdam. Use the official GVB journey planner for current routes and stops.
Is Museumplein worth visiting in bad weather?
The square is exposed to the weather, so it is more comfortable for lingering when conditions are dry. On a wet day, combine a brief look around with a visit to a nearby museum.
Can I combine Museumplein with Vondelpark?
Yes, Vondelpark is within walking distance and makes a natural continuation if you want more time outdoors. The streets between them also offer a chance to explore the wider Museum Quarter.
Museumplein, Amsterdam
1071 AP Amsterdam, Netherlands