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A comprehensive guide on getting to the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam

Where is the National Maritime Museum located?

Address: Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam, Netherlands

The National Maritime Museum is situated in the historic Oosterdok area of Amsterdam, east of the city centre along the waterfront. Housed in a grand 17th-century arsenal building, it is a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.

Closest landmark: NEMO Science Museum, roughly a 5–10 minute walk away

Getting to the National Maritime Museum by public transport

  • Travel time: 10 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station
  • Closest stop: Kadijksplein
  • Timings: Services run throughout the day

Take bus 22 from Amsterdam Central Station toward Muiderpoortstation, and get off at Kadijksplein. The museum is a short walk from the stop.

  • Travel time: 10 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station
  • Closest stop: Kattenburgerstraat
  • Timings: Daytime services run from early morning until evening

Take tram 26 from Amsterdam Central Station toward IJburg. Get off at Kattenburgerstraat. The museum is a short walk from the stop.

  • Travel time: Varies by departure city
  • Closest station: Amsterdam Centraal
  • Timings: Trains operate frequently throughout the day

Arrive at Amsterdam Centraal. From there, transfer to bus 22 or tram 26 to reach the museum.

Getting to the National Maritime Museum by car

Driving route

  • Travel time: 10–15 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station
  • Distance: Approximately 3 kilometres
  • Peak traffic hours: 8am–10am, 5pm–7pm

From Amsterdam Central Station, drive east via Prins Hendrikkade toward Kattenburgerstraat and follow signs to Kattenburgerplein. From outside the city, take the A10 ring road North and exit S116 IJ tunnel toward Centrum. Follow signs to Kattenburgerplein and the museum.

Parking facilities

The National Maritime Museum has no on-site parking. Street parking is very limited, so public parking garages nearby are the best option. All are within walking distance and operate daily.

Nearby parking options include slots at:

  • Markenhoven
  • Oostenburgereiland
  • De Loodsen

For more affordable parking, use P+R Zeeburg and continue by public transport. Take Tram 26 toward Central Station and get off at Kattenburgerstraat, which is close to the museum.

Cycling / Walking to the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam

  • Best for: Scenic sightseeing, active travellers
  • Travel time: Walk 10 minutes / Cycle 5 minutes
  • Distance: 800 metres from Amsterdam Central Station

Walking from Amsterdam Central Station to the National Maritime Museum is a delightful way to explore the Oosterdok area. Head east along Prins Hendrikkade, pass the NEMO Science Museum, and enjoy views of the canals and historic warehouses. Cycling via designated bike lanes along Prins Hendrikkade is a quick and pleasant alternative. The route offers a mix of lively cafés, waterfront scenery, and historic architecture, making it an easy and enjoyable journey at your own pace.

What is the best way to get to the National Maritime Museum?

Budget-friendly

If you want to save money, take the tram or local bus. Tram 26 and bus 22 run frequently from Amsterdam Central Station, are affordable, and stop within a short walk of the museum.

Fastest route

For the quickest journey from Amsterdam Central Station, cycling is often the fastest option. Using the city’s bike lanes, you can reach the museum in about 5 minutes. Driving is also an option, but traffic can slow you down during peak hours.

To sightsee

If you want to enjoy the sights along the way, walking is perfect. The 10-minute stroll from Amsterdam Central Station takes you past the NEMO Science Museum and historic warehouses, allowing you to soak in Amsterdam’s lively streets.

Accessible travel

If mobility or comfort is a priority, buses provide step-free access. Both tram and bus stops near the museum are accessible, making public transport a smooth option for wheelchair users or those preferring minimal walking.

Frequently asked questions about getting to the National Maritime Museum Amsterdam

The easiest way to reach the National Maritime Museum is by tram 26 or bus 22 from Amsterdam Central Station. Cycling is also very convenient using the city’s dedicated bike lanes, while walking offers a scenic route along the Oosterdok waterfront.