An inspiring spring in Amsterdam: the best art exhibitions at a glance

We’ve compiled a list of the best art exhibitions in Amsterdam for the coming months. From Dutch masters to American photography: you simply can’t miss these!

Andrea Ferreira - Staff Writer • April 11, 2024

To all art lovers, we’ve compiled the best art exhibitions in Amsterdam that you can visit in the coming months. From Dutch masters to American photography: these are spectacular exhibitions you won’t want to miss.

Our favorite art exhibitions in Amsterdam this spring

1. American Photography

Spring exhibitions in Amsterdam — © Bryan Schutmaat, Tonopah, Nevada, 2012.

This spring, American Photography at the Rijksmuseum presents a powerful journey through the history of photography in the United States. With more than 200 works, the exhibition traces the evolution of the medium—from early portraits to iconic images such as Robert Frank’s The Americans— and reveals how photography has captured both the dreams and defining moments of a nation. It is an impressive exploration of the beauty, complexity, and constant change of America. 📍Location: Rijksmuseum, Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam 📆 Dates: Through June 9, 2025

2. Anselm Kiefer – Sag mir wo die Blumen sind

This spring, the Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam are presenting a groundbreaking joint exhibition: Anselm Kiefer – Sag mir wo die Blumen sind. For the first time, the two institutions are joining forces to showcase the monumental work of Anselm Kiefer, exploring themes such as memory, nature, and transience. Deeply inspired by Vincent van Gogh and shaped by historical events, Kiefer’s powerful paintings, sculptures, and new creations are on view at both museums—a rare, immersive look at one of the most influential artists of our time. This is one of the art exhibitions you won’t want to miss this season. 📍Location: Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum 📆 Dates: Through June 9, 2025

3. Sex: Jewish Positions

Provocative and thought-provoking: Sex: Jewish Positions at the Jewish Museum delves into the many meanings of sex and sexuality within Jewish culture. From religious texts to contemporary art and pop culture, the exhibition presents a broad spectrum of perspectives—from medieval rabbis to modern influencers. It challenges assumptions and sparks conversations about how Judaism has embraced, questioned, and interpreted sex throughout history. 📍Location: Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 RH Amsterdam 📆 Dates: Through May 25, 2025

4. The Underground Camera

To mark Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary and 80 years since the liberation of the Netherlands, Foam presents The Underground Camera—a moving tribute to a courageous group of war photographers. Their rare images capture life in Amsterdam during the harsh “Hunger Winter” of 1944–1945 and reveal the harsh reality of the occupation and the quiet strength of the resistance. The exhibition opens on May 1 with a special event led by the mayor of Amsterdam, Femke Halsema. 📍Location: Foam, Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS Amsterdam 📆 Dates: May 1 through September 1, 2025

5. World Press Photo 2025

The 2025 World Press Photo exhibition at De Nieuwe Kerk showcases the year’s most powerful photojournalism and documentary photography, selected by an independent jury. Set in the stunning 15th-century church, the exhibition offers a global perspective on the moments, stories, and people that have shaped the past year—captured with clarity, courage, and craftsmanship. 📍Location: De Nieuwe Kerk, De Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam 📆 Dates: April 18, 2025, to September 21, 2025

6. From Rembrandt to Vermeer: Masterpieces from the Leiden Collection

At the H’ART Museum, “From Rembrandt to Vermeer: Masterpieces from the Leiden Collection” offers a rare and intimate glimpse into 17th-century Dutch life through 75 exceptional works. Featuring celebrated artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen… The exhibition also features the only Vermeer painting in private hands, restored especially for this occasion. In honor of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, everyday scenes, portraits, and moments—both grand and modest—are on display. Special attention is also given to the women depicted, including a rare work by Maria Schalcken. 📍Location: H’art Museum, Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam 📆 Dates: April 9 through August 24, 2025

7. Amsterdam Architecture Prize 2025

Arcam – the Amsterdam Architecture Center – presents the city’s 10 most striking buildings, nominated for the Amsterdam Architecture Prize 2025 (the Golden A.A.P.). Through photos, videos, models, and stories, the exhibition offers a rich behind-the-scenes look at the design and impact of each project. The winner will be announced during a special ceremony on June 11. 📍Location: Architecture Center Amsterdam, Prins Hendrikkade 600, 1011 VX Amsterdam 📆 Dates: April 11 through August 31, 2025