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Hidden Gems: Exploring Amsterdam’s Small and Charming Museums

  • Writer: Angela
    Angela
  • 5 days ago
  • 3 min read

Some days, all you need is a brief escape into a museum—wandering through exhibitions, uncovering stories, and discovering treasures while keeping a relaxed atmosphere. I’ve put together my ultimate list of Amsterdam’s museum treasures beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re eager to explore the city’s lesser-known museums, keep reading!


The Grachtenmuseum: A Journey Through Amsterdam’s Iconic Canals

 

The first museum on my list, and perhaps the most fascinating, is the Museum of the Canals, or Grachtenmuseum. Located in the heart of Amsterdam, this museum is housed in a stunning 17th-century canal house on the Herengracht. Its immersive multimedia tour takes you through different rooms of the house, offering a captivating look into the city's history, the construction of its iconic canals, and the architectural vision behind them. This unique format not only brings the past to life but also encourages reflection on how Amsterdam’s urban landscape continues to evolve.


Beyond the multimedia experience, the museum’s ground floor hosts rotating exhibitions on photography and modern media, all centered around the canals and the city. It’s the perfect blend of history and contemporary art, offering a fresh perspective on Amsterdam’s waterways.


Temporary Exhibition: View on the Canals (December 2024 - March 2025, Grachtenmuseum)

Huis Marseille: A Haven for Photography Lovers

 

Next on the list is Huis Marseille, a charming museum on the Keizersgracht that offers a welcoming and intimate setting for contemporary photography. What makes this museum truly special is its dynamic exhibition program, which changes every three months—giving you a reason to return again and again.

 

One of my favorite features of Huis Marseille is its serene garden, home to lovely birds and the perfect spot to unwind after absorbing all the art. Tucked within the garden is a smaller house showcasing additional works, adding to the museum’s charm. On the ground floor, you'll find a library filled with photography books, which visitors can browse whenever it’s open.

 

Oh, and did I mention it’s the oldest photography museum in the city? If that doesn’t convince you to visit, I don’t know what will!


House Marseille Garden photographed by Jessica Kürschner, May 2024

Micropia: Discover the Invisible World of Microbes

 

Another museum well worth your time is Artis Micropia, a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated entirely to the fascinating world of microbes. This interactive space brings the microscopic universe to life in an engaging and playful way, packed with intriguing facts and stunning microbe patterns that will awaken your curiosity.

 

Micropia is part of Artis, which also includes Amsterdam’s zoo and a botanical garden. Its location makes it a great spot to enjoy the outdoors before or after your visit, especially since the museum itself can be explored in under two hours. And if you go, don’t miss the flamingos! They’re in an area accessible without a zoo ticket.


The Fungal Wall in Micropia, by Lizan Freijsen

More Hidden Treasures: Van Loon Museum, KattenKabinet, and Het Schip Museum

 

Those were my top three underrated museums in the city, but three more are definitely worth mentioning: KattenKabinet, the Van Loon Museum, and Het Schip Museum. KattenKabinet and Van Loon are both located in the city center, making them perfect stops while strolling through downtown. Whether you're in search of a beautiful hidden garden (Van Loon Museum) or simply want to admire some feline-inspired art—and maybe even meet a few resident cats (KattenKabinet)—these museums offer a unique and charming addition to your itinerary. For architecture lovers, Het Schip Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Amsterdam’s social housing history and the stunning Amsterdam School design movement.


I hope you get to visit these museums soon! Feel free to reach out for tips on accessing museums in the city.


Official Websites & Visitor Info:

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