Museum Square

Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square
Museum Square


In the heart of cultural Amsterdam explore one of Amsterdam’s famous art museums, enjoy the thrills of a live event, or just relax on the grass of this park. 

Explore Museum Square ahead of your planned museum visits to take in the elegant sights and bustling atmosphere of one of the most-visited green spaces in Amsterdam.

Stand in front of the massive and iconic I Amsterdam letters for a touristy photo to prove you made it to this legendary European capital. Wander over to the Ass’s Ear, a triangular and supposedly ear-shaped stretch of lawn that rises from one corner of the square. This feature covers part of the underground additions made to the square during its 1999 remodeling, including a supermarket where you can buy drinks and sandwiches for a picnic on the lawn.

On a sunny day, relax by the water feature near the Rijksmuseum or glide across its surface in winter, when the pond is converted to an ice-skating rink.

Originally laid out for the International Colonial and Export Exhibition in 1883, Museum Square became a permanent fixture after the completion of the Rijksmuseum in 1885. Better known by the Dutch name of Museumplein (“plein” meaning “square”), this central hub remains a vital part of a culturally and historically rich district today.

While named for the massive Rijksmuseum at its northeastern end, Museum Square has two more world-famous art museums adorning it and is also overlooked by the Amsterdam Concert Hall (Concertgebouw) and other elegant buildings.

The elegant Rijksmuseum focuses on ancient art, including The Night Watch by Rembrandt and many other famous paintings by Dutch masters, while the ultra-modern Stedelijk Museum (City Museum) showcases contemporary creations. In between, the partly underground Van Gogh Museum tells the heartbreaking story of one of the world’s most famous painters.

Check Amsterdam’s cultural events guide to see if there is a festival, market or concert planned in the square during your stay. One of the most iconic community celebrations that is not to be missed is Koningsdag (Kings Day) on April 27, when Museum Square is heaving with partying locals and becomes a sea of orange.

Museum Square is freely accessible year round. The green square is located to the southeast of the city center and is easily reached on foot, by bicycle, tram, hop-on/hop-off canal cruise, bus or taxi.

Plan a trip to see Museum Square

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Holiday Home Near Noordwijk Beach
Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments - Riverfront Suites
House With Three Bathrooms, on a Holiday Park

Tours & day trips

See all 750 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 333 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 72 activities

Water activities

See all 39 activities

Shows & concerts

See all 28 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

4.5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 25, Amsterdam
Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection
Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

4.5 out of 5
Leidsekade, 97, Amsterdam, North Holland
Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

4 out of 5
Pieter Cornelisz. Hooftstraat 2, Amsterdam
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel
THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam

THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam

2 out of 5
Weteringschans 67, Amsterdam, Noord Holland
THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam
The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel

The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel

2 out of 5
Vossiusstraat 46, Amsterdam
The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel
Hilton Amsterdam

Hilton Amsterdam

5 out of 5
Apollolaan 138, Amsterdam
Hilton Amsterdam
Hotel City Garden Amsterdam

Hotel City Garden Amsterdam

3 out of 5
162 P.C. Hooftstraat, Amsterdam
Hotel City Garden Amsterdam
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

3.5 out of 5
53 Vossiusstraat, Amsterdam, North Holland
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 12, Amsterdam
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Museum Square

At Museum Square in Amsterdam, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, including shopping in the nearby boutiques and stores. The square is also home to renowned museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, offering a rich cultural experience. After exploring the art and history, one can relax in the picturesque surroundings, making it a perfect spot for both cultural enrichment and leisurely pursuits.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant Flower Market, only 497m from Museum Square, offering a delightful selection of flowers and souvenirs. Nearby, the Albert Cuyp Market, 249m away, buzzes with local produce and crafts. De Hallen, a shopping mall 559m away, combines shopping with entertainment for families.

Recreation

At Concertgebouw, immerse yourself in world-class music performances, perfect for relaxation and inspiration. Nearby, the Olympic Stadium offers exhilarating sports events, ideal for those seeking an active experience. For a refreshing swim, visit De Mirandabad, a family-friendly outdoor pool that combines leisure and recreation in a vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure

At Circuit Park Zandvoort, experience the thrill of motor racing, located 9.3km from Museum Square, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Alternatively, enjoy karting at Bleekemolens Race Planet Amsterdam, situated 3.1km away, where you can feel the rush of speed and competition in an exciting atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience, just 62m from Museum Square, where you can enjoy romantic cocktails. For a cultural evening, catch a show at the Royal Theater Carre, located 621m away, offering a rich blend of entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

Find the best attractions near Museum Square

When visiting Museum Square in Amsterdam, immerse yourself in culture at the renowned Stedelijk Museum and explore the vibrant Museum Quarter. This area is perfect for families and art enthusiasts alike, with top museums just metres from Museumplein. Discover the rich artistic heritage and enjoy the lively piazza atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for cultural experiences and memorable outings.

  • Van Gogh Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh at this renowned art museum, showcasing the largest collection of his works. Located a mere 62m from Museum Square, the museum offers an intimate cultural experience, featuring his iconic paintings and personal letters.
  • Dam Square: A vibrant piazza situated 621m from Museum Square, Dam Square is the heart of Amsterdam. Surrounded by historic architecture and lively street performances, it’s a perfect spot to absorb the city's culture while enjoying cafes and shops in the bustling atmosphere.
  • Anne Frank House: Located 621m from Museum Square, this poignant museum offers a deeply moving insight into the life of Anne Frank. Explore the secret annex where she wrote her diary during World War II, an experience that evokes reflection on history and human resilience.

Best time to go to Museum Square

The best time to visit Museum Square can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Museum Square falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Museum Square falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
November46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Museum Square

To save money during your visit to Museum Square, consider travelling in the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices drop. Booking a hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can also yield savings. The cheapest days to stay are Mondays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and combine hotel bookings with flights and activities for additional discounts. Lastly, take advantage of free activities in the area and consider walking or using public transport for affordable travel options.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Museum Square are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Museum Square is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Museum Square is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Museum Square is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation at Museum Square with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.