The National Maritime Museum — also known as Het Scheepvaartmuseum — offers an insight into Amsterdam's rich nautical history.

From the famed Dutch East India Company, which was established in the 17th century to individual shipping vessels, you'll discover all there is to know about sailing at this interactive museum.

By purchasing Amsterdam's National Maritime Museum tickets, you'll have the opportunity to board a historic ship yourself and picture life as an explorer back when the world was only just becoming accessible.

Here's everything you need to know about The National Maritime Museum, one of the most remarkable museums in Amsterdam.

How much do The National Maritime Museum tickets cost?

The National Maritime Museum tickets are reasonably priced, meaning that most people can include the attraction in their Amsterdam itinerary.

Adults: €17.50
Children aged 4-17: €8.50
Children under 4: Free

Who is eligible for discounts?

Students qualify for a reduced entry fee to the The National Maritime Museum at €8.50 with valid identification. Those who hold a CJP Museum Pass can also benefit from this discounted rate on their tickets for The National Maritime Museum.

While persons with disabilities pay the full rate to enter the museum, they are entitled to bring a companion with them, free of charge.

Is it possible to enter for free?

Various city passes include the museum, such as Stadspas and Museum Card, which enable you to visit the site for free.

What are the best combo tickets including The National Maritime Museum?

Combined tickets and tours that include The National Maritime Museum offer the best ways to save money while in Amsterdam, without sacrificing your plans. By purchasing a combined ticket, you'll generally save at least 10% versus booking both activities separately and you'll also save yourself time, which can be spent enjoying your trip.

The National Maritime Museum plus canal cruise in Amsterdam

Once you've explored the extensive collections at The National Maritime Museum, you'll have the opportunity to hop on a boat and discover cluster of Amsterdam canals.

Admire the myriad of landmarks and monuments that line the waterways of this UNESCO-listed World Heritage site, while learning about the city through an entertaining audio guide.

The National Maritime Museum plus 24-hour hop-on hop-off boat in Amsterdam

Alternatively, those who want to make the most of their time in the city may choose to combine their tickets to The National Maritime Museum with a 24-hour hop-on hop-off boat trip in Amsterdam.

Take a self-guided Amsterdam city tour by weaving your way along its waterways and jumping off whenever an attraction catches your eye. Then, once you've finished sightseeing, simply hop back on and make your way to the next landmark.

Should you book in advance?

It is not mandatory to purchase your tickets to The National Maritime Museum in advance. However, by doing so, you'll be able to skip the line when you arrive on-site and spend more time discovering the naval history of Amsterdam, instead of queueing.

You'll also be able to secure passes for your chosen day, meaning you'll be guaranteed entry. Booking tickets online is simple and takes just a couple of minutes.

What will you see inside?

Upon entry to The National Maritime Museum, keen historians will be able to view one of the world's largest cartographic collections with maps that date back to the 15th century.

You can discover how the iconic Amsterdam canals were built, or take a VR journey through 17th-century Amsterdam. Explore life through a sailor's eyes, as you fire a canyon or relax in a hammock.

The National Maritime Museum opened in 1916 and is today, one of the most visited sites in Amsterdam. Inside, you'll find a complete collection of maritime artifacts, which range from paintings and models to historic weapons.

Its cartography collection features maps and atlases from between the 15th and 17th centuries, and includes works by Willem Blaeu — one of the most respected cartographers of the age.

In the museum, you'll also find a replica of "the Amsterdam" — an 18th-century cargo ship of the Dutch East India Company. Aboard the life-sized model, you'll find captain's quarters, sailor's hammocks and life-like canyons.

There are two more vessels moored at the museum — the 19th-century King's Sloop and the SS Christian Brunnings, named after the celebrated Dutch marine engineer.

How to get there?

The National Maritime Museum is located in the city's center, close to many other attractions, such as De Oude Kerk and the NEMO Science Museum.

In order to reach the site, you can hop on bus Line 22 or 43, both of which stop at Amsterdam Central Station.

Alternatively, you can reach the museum from Amsterdam Central on foot in around 20 minutes, following Prins Hendrikkade.

When is the best time to visit The National Maritime Museum?

The best time to visit to The National Maritime Museum is during the early afternoon on a weekday. This will enable you to avoid the majority of the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.

Which other museums can be visited in Amsterdam?

Travel tips

There is no need to purchase your admission fee to The National Maritime Museum far in advance. Simply head online to book your pass the day before you plan to visit.
Large bags are not permitted in the museum. While there are lockers available for larger items, you should consider taking a small bag if you do not wish to be separated from your belongings.
Allow around 3 hours in total for your tour of The National Maritime Museum.

National Maritime Museum: Tickets and Tours