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National Maritime Museum

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The National Maritime Museum is open every day from 10am to 5pm.

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings

Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)

TIMINGS

Monday (Today)10:00–17:00
Tuesday10:00–17:00
Wednesday10:00–17:00
Thursday10:00–17:00
Friday10:00–17:00
Saturday10:00–17:00
Sunday10:00–17:00
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  • Closed: April 27, December 25, January 1

Best time to visit the National Maritime Museum

Weekday vs Weekend

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  • Weekdays: Mornings, especially, are much quieter, offering a more relaxed and immersive experience. Less crowded galleries and interactive exhibits allow you to take your time. However, the museum may host school groups or educational tours, which can slightly increase noise levels during mornings and early afternoons.
  • Weekends: Saturdays and Sundays see more families and tourists exploring the exhibits. Special events or workshops are more likely to be scheduled on weekends. Expect longer lines at ticket counters and interactive exhibits. Popular areas, such as the replica ship or virtual reality experiences, may be busier.

Peak season vs low season

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  • Peak Season (April–August): Warmer weather and longer daylight hours make this the ideal time to explore the museum. During these months, the museum also hosts more events and exhibitions. However, higher visitor numbers mean larger crowds and longer lines for tickets and exhibits.
  • Low Season (September–March): With fewer visitors, you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience. Access to exhibits is easier, making it a great choice for families or anyone wanting to avoid crowds. Keep in mind that shorter daylight hours and colder, rainy weather may limit outdoor exploration.

How long should I spend at the National Maritime Museum?

1–2 hours

If you’re short on time, focus on the main exhibits that showcase Dutch maritime history and head straight to the East Indiaman Amsterdam, a large ship replica you can walk through. You can also briefly explore key galleries on navigation and trade.

2–3 hours

This is a good amount of time for a complete visit. You can see the permanent galleries in the historic museum building, explore the East Indiaman Amsterdam thoroughly and enjoy interactive exhibits that bring the Netherlands’ maritime past to life.

3–4 hours

For a more immersive visit, explore the exhibitions with the audio guide, then relax with a coffee at the museum café. If you have time, a combo ticket lets you visit the NEMO Science Museum or take an Amsterdam Canal Cruise.

Frequently asked questions about the National Maritime Museum's opening hours

The National Maritime Museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. The museum shop also operates within these hours, and the library is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm.