Amsterdam is full of famous museums we’ve all visited at some point, like the Rijksmuseum, and they’re fantastic places. But if you’ve been living here for a while or are perhaps looking for something you haven’t seen before, you should look beyond these well-known spots and venture out to Amsterdam’s more offbeat attractions. Here are our favorite unusual museums to explore for surprising insights and a fresh perspective on the city.
4 Unusual Museums in Amsterdam You Must Visit
1. Pianola Museum
You don’t have to be a music lover to find this museum fascinating. It features 50 self-playing pianos from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They’re truly fascinating to see, and pianolas were once popular throughout Europe. Visit the website for more information about the museum. You must call in advance and make an appointment to visit the museum.
📍Location: Westerstraat 106 1015 MN
2. Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica
Have you ever read a Dan Brown novel ? Then you might recognize some of the ideas hidden in the books at the Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica, because Dan Brown was so inspired by the books here that he donated $300,000 to the library. The focus is primarily on Hermeticism, and here you’ll find the first, illustrated version of Dante’s Divine Comedy.
📍Location: Keizersgracht 123, 1015 CJ
3. Museum Tot Zover
De Nieuwe Ooster, Amsterdam’s largest cemetery, might seem like an unlikely location for a museum. However, this museum focuses on death. Yes, it’s not the happiest of topics, but this museum aims to explore how different cultures deal with death, and it’s actually quite interesting. The website is fantastic, so be sure to check it out if you’re planning a visit.
📍Location: Kruislaan 124, 1097 GA
4. Bijbels Museum
The Biblical Museum focuses on everything related to Judeo-Christianity, and there is so much to see. Theology enthusiasts will be fascinated by the collection of artworks, ancient copies of the Bible and the Tanakh, and other exhibits that spark curiosity and interest in Judeo-Christian religious history. Check out the website for more information about the museum.
📍Location: Herengracht 366-368, 1016 CH
