Museums and Attractions open in Amsterdam on King's Day 2018

What museums and attractions are open on King's Day in Amsterdam for 2018?

Here is the list of traditional  museums and attractions that are closed and those that are open as well as the opening hours.

The Big 3 museums of Amsterdam are open on King's Day. The Anne Frank, Van Gogh and Rijksmuseums.

Have a great King's Day in Amsterdam

Museum/ Attraction	Opening Hours King's Day 2018
Allard Pierson Museum	Closed
Amsterdam Dungeon	1100 - 1500
Amsterdam Museum	Closed
Amsterdam Tulip Museum	Closed
Amstelkring/ Ons' Lieve Heer Op Solder	Closed
Anne Frank House	0900 - 2200
Artis	0900 - 1800
Artis Micropia	0900 - 1800
Brilmuseum	Closed
Bijbels Museum	Closed
Cobra Museum	Closed
Diamand Museum Amsterdam	Closed
Eye Film Museum	Closed
FOAM Photography	Closed
Geelvinck Hinlopen Huis	Closed
Heineken Experience	1030 -1930
Hermitage Museum	Closed
Van Gogh Museum	0900 - 1800
Het Grachtenhuis	Closed
Hortus Botanicus	1000 - 1700
House of Bols	1300 - 1830
Huis Marseille	Closed
Joods Historisch Museum	Closed
Koninklijk Paleis	Closed
Madame Tussauds	1000 - 1600
Molen van Sloten	Closed
Museum van Loon	Closed
Museum het Schip	Closed
NEMO	Closed
Nieuwe Kerk	Closed
OudeKerk	Closed
Persmuseum	Closed
Rembrandthuis	Closed
Rijksmuseum	0900 - 1700
Ripley's	1000 - 1800
Scheepvaart Museum	Closed
Stadsarchief Amsterdam	Closed
Stedelijk Museum	Closed
Tassenmuseum Hendrikje	Closed
Tropenmuseum	Closed
UVA Bijzondere Collecties	Closed
Verzetsmuseum	Closed
Willet Holthuysen	Closed
Woonboot Museum	Closed

The Romans invade Amsterdam: Rome an exhibition at the Nieuwe Kerk

The Romans never made it to Amsterdam. Simply, Amsterdam did not exist as a settlement of notable size. The Romans made their defensive line along the Rhine River. Utrecht was the closet they got, about 25 miles south of Amsterdam.

This has now changed with the exhibition: Rome: Emperor Constantine's Dream at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk. Constantine is an interesting choice for a Roman exhibition in Amsterdam's "new" church. Constantine was the first Christian Emperor to rule Rome - sort of as he was only baptized on his deathbed. Under his rule Christianity went from a secret sect whose followers were thrown to the lions to a legitimate religion free from oppression

The exhibition presents Constantine as a kind christian-esque ruler. The Good Shepard statue from the Vatican's Pro Cristiano Museum is a perfect example.  A young Shepard with a helpless sheep upon his shoulders.  The exhibition  portray's the period, late 3rd century to early 4th century, as a time of religious tolerance with other artifacts representing a diversity of beliefs. A relativist state with Constantine as its ruler.

As a visitor to Amsterdam you can learn about Roman history and the Dutch Reformation in one building.

The direction of the exhibition and the location of the Nieuwe Kerk was not lost on the visitor. The Nieuwe Kerk is a church where all the Kings and Queens of the Netherlands are blessed at the beginning of their reign King or Queen. The Netherlands has a relatively new King.

Yet the church's position on Dam Square presents the building as of lesser importance than the former City Hall now Royal Palace. The Nieuwe Kerk is rarely used these days for religious practice as the Royal Palace seldom has regal occupants.

The Netherlands has one of the largest agnostic populations in Europe. Approximately 30% depending on which statistics you view. Amsterdam, as its capital. Is considered one of the most diverse city's in the world for its population.

The Dutch Reformed Church of which the new King of the Netherlands is a member once held the position of 'privileged' religion of the state. This organisation has lost 60% or its congregation since 1950.

Here we have an extremely diverse city, Amsterdam. In a country where an anti-immigrant and anti-Islam political party is most popular (polls September 2015). Showing an exhibition of a Roman Emperor most believe to be Christian but wasn't, portrayed as a symbol of religious diversity. This in a church not used as a church, in a country that is not religious.

You wonder why people love Amsterdam?

The exhibition, Rome: Emperor Constantine's Dream  runs until 7 February 2016. For more details visit the Nieuwe Kerk website.

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Asia in Amsterdam: a Rijksmuseum exhibition

When in Amsterdam...the Rijksmuseum has an exhibition on Asia from the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1599, expeditionary ships return from Asia to Amsterdam laden with goods. This arrival hailed the beginning of Amsterdam as a world power and the arrival of the Dutch Golden Age.

The Return to Amsterdam of the Second Expedition to the East Indies.
Hendrik Cornelisz Vroom, 1599.

The exhibition Asia in Amsterdam: Luxury in the Golden Age demonstrates the grandeur of Amsterdam and its elite during this period.

The Dutch East India Shipping Company (VOC) filled Dutch homes with treasures from Asian settlements. Porcelain, diamonds, spices and silks. From locations such as Sri Lanka, Malaysia, China, Japan and of course Indonesia. 

The influx of these new goods was overwhelming. Local artisans were influenced by these new goods. They adopted Asian techniques and styles creating works of art that today are considered icons of Dutchness. Delft Blue porcelain is the obvious example.

The volume of goods from trading merchants of the East attracted an influx of immigrants  from surrounding European countries. Knowledge and experience accumulated. Advancements were made particularly in ship building and cartography. Amsterdam became the place to go in Europe for Asian goods.

This exhibition displays imported Asian luxury goods along side local art. Demonstrating the the clear influence the Asian works had on Dutch life and art during the 17th and 18th Centuries.

What the exhibition is missing is artifacts or stories of the normal sailor, trade worker or prostitute. An acknowledgement of the vast number of people associated with this trade that did not possess these luxury items.

It is the National Museum of the Netherlands but in this time of austerity an exhibition of luxury and grandeur would have greater impact with a tale or two of those that did fully enjoy these treasures from the other side of the world.

Nonetheless, a worthwhile exhibition to visit. Our favorite pieces of the exhibition are below.

Letter of safe conduct with its original box. Japan 1609.

This letter was one of four issued by the military leader of Japan (Shogun) to the most important member of the Dutch trade delegation. The Dutch were the only European country to trade with the the Japanese for almost 200 years. This relationship can be seen today with Dutch influence in the Japanese language and pieces of Van Gogh's art.

Breast Ornament, c.1630 gold, diamonds, enamel.

Rough, uncut diamonds found their way to Amsterdam. Amsterdam became the center of Europe's diamond industry surpassing Antwerp. During the 17th century diamonds could only be found in Asia.

Plate, Japan, c. 1680 - 1700

This plate with the monogram of the VOC (Dutch East Indies Company) was made in Japan. Europeans knew little of the making process in the early 1600s. The process would be learned and perfected to become an icon of the country today, Delft Blue porcelain.

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The exhibition Asia in Amsterdam: Luxury in the Golden Age runs until January 17, 2016.

Details to plan your visit can be at the website of the Rijksmuseum

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Related post:

Rijjksmuseum looks to ban photos

Rijksmuseum critics: What you need to know before you visit

Rembrandt's House Museum: Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam....visit the Rembrandt House. The old master lived most of his life in Amsterdam. At the height of his popularity he resided in a magnificent house for twenty years in the middle of Amsterdam's Jewish Quarter.

Rembrandt's House 1868

At this museum you get to step back in time and understand the environment that Rembrandt lived. The house has been reconstructed and filled with objects from Rembrandt's time. Also, the house holds the largest collection of Rembrandt etchings.

Rembrandt's House initial restoration in mid 20th century

It was in 1906 that the city purchased the building and began a long process of restoration. It was not until 1999 that the current restoration was completed. This was due to the purchase of the adjacent building to house the library and information centre.

Paint making in the 17th century at  Rembrandt's House Museum, Amsterdam.

The best thing about the museum is the demonstrations. Each day the Museum shows how etchings were done in the 17th century. There is also a demonstration on how paint was made in Rembrandt's time.


Our tip:

Visit the Rembrandt House Museum before you visit the Rijksmuseum. Step back in time to see and feel the environment before seeing the masterpieces in the national museum, Rijksmuseum.

Open hours and prices can be found here at their website for Rembrandt House Museum.

 When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Things to do in Amsterdam: Local Tips from famous Amsterdammers

When in Amsterdam....there are so many things to do. Here we have translated advice from famous Amsterdammers of what to do in the city for visitors. These exerts were taken from a book titled: Mijn Plek Amsterdam. 2013. The book was only released in Dutch but is a great gift idea.

Hanna Bervoets

Hanna Bervoets
 Photo taken from film1.nl

Hanna Bervoets is born and breed Amsterdam. She is famous for being a writer, journalist, columnist and appearing on Dutch television.

Hanna's tip: "visitors should go to Cafe-Restaurant Noorderlicht in Amsterdam-North at the NDSM wharf. There, tourists get to see a special and little exposed piece of Amsterdam."

Job Cohen

Job Cohen
Photo taken from nrc.nl

Job Cohen is former social democratic politician and famous for being Mayor of Amsterdam 2001-2010. He was rated European of the Year 2005 by Time for his handling of race tension in Amsterdam.

Job's tip:"a tourist should be directed to the new (eastern) Ij islands. An example for the whole world how an ancient port which no longer serves it initial purpose can be transformed into a modern part of the city. When I started as mayor there was nothing, now it is really beautiful."

Leo Blokhuis

Leo Blokhuis
Photo taken from media.nu.nl

Leo Blokhuis is an expert in the field of pop. He is also a professional graphic designer and a broadcaster.

Leo's tip: "tourists should visit the museums, it's really not normal how much there is to see in the larger museums of the city. Very happy they are open again to the public."

Jeroen Pauw

Jeroen Pauw
Photo taken from talent kitchen

Jeroen Pauw is a journalist and television presenter.

Jeroen's tip: "I hope that tourists see Amsterdam as a relaxed and cheerful village. I get annoyed by people watching and thinking it is dangerous. Walk to Wilhelmina Dok (north Amsterdam) find a cafe and drink quietly a coffee. Then Walk through the park and go to the museum (Film museum)."

Glennis Grace

Glennis Grace
Photo taken from ceo-evenementen

Glennis is a born and breed Amsterdam famous for her singing.

Glennis's tip: "A boat tour is really special. But also a bus or perhaps even by bicycle. A fun and comfortable way to see the city."

Johannes van Dam (deceased)

Johannes van Dam
Photo taken from Het Parool

Johannes was born an Amsterdammer and died in Amsterdam. A journalist and the Netherlands most famous food critic. He had a column for 25 years in the national daily Het Parool. 

Johannes's tip: "Go to the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Hermitage. Then a cruise the canals. For the best croquettes in Amsterdam you need to go to confectionery Holtkamp on the Vijzelgracht."

Tygo Gernandt

Tygo Gernandt
Photo taken from nuphoto.nl

Tygo Gernandt was born in Amsterdam. He is famous for being a voice, television and film actor.

Tygo's tip: "Just the city sweep you up. Walk out of Central Station and just keep walking. Be yourself and do what you want to do. This is what I would advise."


Ellen Hoog

Ellen Hoog
Photo taken from ellenhoog.com

Ellen is a famous for her field hockey talent. She was a member of the Netherlands' European and World Champion national field hockey team

Ellen's tip: "Visit the Nine Streets. When I 'm abroad I look for this atmosphere. The squares, terraces and canals give a very pretty picture of Amsterdam."

Youp van 't Hek

Youp van 't Hek
Photo taken from redlinemusic.nl

Youp is famous for being a comedian and making fun of the rich. He is also a columnist for the national daily NRC Handelsblad since 1988. 

Youp's tip: "At five in the morning take a boat through the city. The students are home, the whores go to bed and sleep. The city wakes up at the same time. Its really great. Get on your bike and go eat somewhere you 've never been without a reservation."

Lnage Frans

Lnage Frans
Photo taken from culturegids.avro.nl

Lnage Frans is born in Amsterdam and is famous for being a rapper and a television presenter.

Lnage's tip: "Cruise through the canals. Just an hour of listening to the tape and admiring all the beautiful things."

We hope this was helpful. If you would like to see the book this came from Mijn Plek Amsterdam. It is a book that asked 25 famous Amsterdammers about their part of Amsterdam. We bought a copy from the Amsterdam City Archives bookshop.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!

Other interesting Blog Posts:

All-time Top 10 Things to do in Amsterdam: a critical look

Amsterdam Top 10 Eats: a critical approach

Street Photography in Amsterdam: William Klein Exhibition at Foam

When in Amsterdam....Foam photo museum is paradise for photographers. Presently, the entire museum is dedicated to a retrospective of William Klein the famous American-French photographer and filmmaker.

New York born, William Klein is considered one of the top 100 influential photographers of all time. He is famous for his ironic approach and unique photo techniques for photo journalism and fashion photography. He is also one of the Godfathers of Street Photography.

Photo: William Klein

The exhibition spans the entire three floors of Foam Museum. On entrance you are enter the black and whites of New York in the 1950s. This room balances the idolized American Dream with gritty images of New York streets.

By William Klein

The exhibition then flows in his work from Moscow, Rome and Japan. On the top floor there is a collage of his films that poke fun at the American and French ideals of freedom.  This mix of film clips brings the exhibition together. The personality of Klein ironic, crude and rude yet alive and personal.

By William Klein

The exhibition, William Klein, runs December 2, 2013 until March 12, 2014. For lovers of street photography and art in general this is insightful. The 1.5 hours of iconic 20th century photography is unlikely to be seen for sometime in Amsterdam. Take the opportunity if in Amsterdam.

By William Klein

*note* There is a 1.25 euro surcharge for Museum Card hollers.


When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Marcel Wanders: Pinned Up at the Stedelijk, 25 years of design

When in Amsterdam...the Stedelijk Museum is home to contemporary art. Marcel Wanders: Pinned up at the Stedelijk is an exhibition of one of the Netherlands most famous designers.

The exhibition, curated by Ingeborg de Roode, brings together 400 pieces and 25 years of Marcel Wanders work. In 2011, the New York Times labeled Wanders the Lady Gaga of the design world. As he was 'a constant font of ideas and energy who is nearly impossible to ignore'.

Knotted Chair by Marcel Wanders 1996

Marcel Wanders rise to fame came in the 1990s. In 1996, his Knotted Chair was released to international acclaim at the Milan Furniture Fair. He developed the chair for the Droog collective and in 2001 foundered Moooi furniture. 

The exhibition is laid out in three distinct areas. The first decision is to decide which zone to explore first, White or Black Zones. 

The White Zone, charts the progression of Wander's work. This zone is based on 10 themes among them surface, innovation, playing with scale. 

The Black Zone, presents work that is more experimental and personal to Wanders. The contrast from the White Zone creates a simple powerful dramatic effect.

The Lounge area at the end of the exhibition shows his work for design brands.

The iconic works of Wanders are presented. Such as, Set Up Shades lamp (1989), Knotted Chair (1996), Lace Table (1997), Egg Vase (1997) and Skygarden lamp (2007). There are also lesser known pieces and recent pieces such as the special edition version for this exhibition of the Egg Vase.

Egg Vase: Marcel Wanders

If you are a designer or just love design this is must if you are in Amsterdam. Even if you don't think you enjoy design you will find something in this exhibition that screams cool. The exhibition runs from February 1 until June 15 2014. The Exhibition Marcel Wanders: Pinned up at the Stedelijk, 25 years of design is sponsored by Koninklijke Ahold N.V. 

When in Amsterdam...enjoy!

Other blogs related:

• What is Dutch Design?
• Amsterdam Guide To Dutch Design

Piet Modriaan in Amsterdam 1892 -1912: Amsterdam Museum Exhibitions

When in Amsterdam....explore the influence on art. The Amsterdam Museum is currently displaying 62 pieces by Piet Modriaan. Modriaan is famous in the art world for pioneering the abstract (Neoplasticism/ de Stijl) school of painting.

Modrian in Amsterdam 1892 - 1912
(photo: Omy Amsterdam Tours)

This exhibition (on display to January 2, 2014) concentrates on his early works when he lived in and around Amsterdam. The works show the progression of Mordiaan as an artist (he would change his name to Modrian in Paris 1911). Modriaan is normally remembered for his line paintings. This exhibition shows a human, an artist who is developing from influence, environment and personal  philosophy.

Born just outside Amsterdam to a strict Calvinist family Modriaan moved to Amsterdam in 1892 to study at the Academy of Fine Art. The exhibition shows how young Modriaan painting was typical in 19th century style. Landscapes and especially windmills were consistent objects of his paintings. He built up a career of commissions painting portraits and landscapes.

The exhibition dramatically shows the influence on Modriaan of the Van Gogh exhibition in Amsterdam in 1905. From 1907 his colours change to be more radical. His radical colour choices put him at odds with patrons and his family.

Windmill in Sunlight, Modriaan 1908

Modriaan again changes his style after his trip to Paris in 1911. He is confronted by Cubism. Combined with the use of dramatic colours during the First World War  Modriaan turns his attention to the philosophy and painting, especially the line and colour. The process becomes more important than the result.

It is always fascinating to see an artist develop. Piet Modriaan in Amsterdam 1892 - 1912, exhibits rare works seldom displayed publicly. For those who love early 20th century art this is a must see. Great in combination with a visit to the Van Gogh and Stedelijk museums of Amsterdam.

When in Amsterdam....enjoy!