museum
NEMO Science Museum
A hands-on science museum for families in a ship-shaped building, with a free rooftop terrace.
Photo: Ralph Beetz / Google
NEMO is Amsterdam's big, hands-on science museum — five floors of experiments inside a striking green building, shaped like a ship's hull, rising out of the water near Central Station. It's a family favourite.
What to see
Children and curious adults can run experiments, blow giant bubbles and explore how the world works across themed floors.
Up top, the stepped rooftop terrace gives one of the best free views over the old city — you can climb it even without a ticket, weather permitting.
Good to know
It's a short walk east of Central Station, over the water. Book online at busy times; the rooftop is free and open in good weather.
Allow a couple of hours, especially with children.
Tips from locals
Head straight up to the rooftop terrace — it's free to access and has one of the best city views in Amsterdam.
It's hands-on throughout: build, test and experiment rather than just look.
Don't miss the giant Chain Reaction machine and the Wonder Lab experiments.
Plan 3 to 4 hours if you're with kids; there's a lot across the five floors.
Walk over from Central Station along the waterfront promenade — it's about ten minutes.
Did you know?
The copper-green, ship-shaped building was designed by architect Renzo Piano, who also designed the Centre Pompidou.
It's built right on top of the entrance to the IJ road tunnel, which inspired its curved shape.
It's the largest science centre in the Netherlands.
Its rooftop is the highest public square in the country, with a green roof of more than 75 plant species.
The museum's origins go back to 1923.
FAQ
- What are the opening hours?
- Tuesday to Sunday 10:00–17:30, plus Mondays during school holidays and summer. It's closed on King's Day.
- How much is admission?
- Around €17.50 for everyone aged 4 and up, free for children under 4, and free with a Museumkaart or I amsterdam City Card.
- Is the rooftop really free?
- Yes — you can reach the rooftop terrace via the outside stairs without a museum ticket, for free, in good weather.
- Is it just for kids?
- It's designed mainly for children, but the interactive exhibits and especially the rooftop are enjoyed by adults too. Allow two to three hours.
- Where is it?
- At Oosterdok 2, a short walk east of Amsterdam Centraal station.
NEMO Science Museum, Amsterdam
Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX, Amsterdam