A hands-on science museum in a striking green ship-shaped building over the IJ tunnel, aimed at families. Open Tue-Sun 10:00-17:30 (some Mondays in holidays); tickets around EUR 21.50, free under 4. The rooftop terrace is free to all, even without a ticket. Great for kids and rainy days.
Key facts
| Hours | Tue-Sun: 10:00-17:30 Closed most Mondays (open select holiday Mondays; closed King's Day 27 April) Rooftop terrace: free public access |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | 15-min walk from Amsterdam Centraal (east); or bus 22/48 to Kadijksplein |
| Time needed | 2-3 hours (half a day with kids) |
| Best time to go | Weekday mornings in term time; rooftop great at sunset |
| Last verified | July 15, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.0/10- Value7.5
- iconic7.0
- Freshness9.3
- excellence7.5
- Crowd level6.5
- Authenticity6.5
- Accessibility7.5
Frequently asked questions
- How long should we spend there?
- Two to three hours covers the main floors at a relaxed pace; families with excitable kids can easily fill half a day. There's a cafe inside and on the roof, so you can take breaks without leaving.
- How do I get there from Central Station?
- It's an easy 15-minute walk east along the waterfront from Amsterdam Centraal, or a short bus ride (line 22 or 48). The building sits right over the IJ tunnel, you literally walk up onto its roof.
- Is it worth it compared to Amsterdam's art museums?
- Different audience entirely. If you're travelling with children, NEMO often beats the art museums for engagement and meltdown-avoidance. If you're an art-focused adult, spend your time and money at the Rijks or Van Gogh instead.
- Is the rooftop really free?
- Yes, NEMO's big stepped roof terrace is open to the public for free, accessed by outdoor stairs, no museum ticket needed. It's a fantastic city viewpoint and a lovely free thing to do even if you skip the exhibits.
- Is it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs?
- Yes, the museum is largely accessible with lifts between floors and space for strollers and wheelchairs, and there are baby-changing facilities. The rooftop is reachable by lift as well as the outdoor stairs. It's one of the more family-friendly museums in town.
- Is NEMO just for kids?
- It's designed for families and is best with kids roughly 4-14, but adults genuinely enjoy the interactive experiments, the chain-reaction machine, and the teen-oriented sections too. Solo adults without children may find it a bit young; families rate it highly.
- How much are tickets and do I book ahead?
- Around EUR 21.50 for ages 4+ (under 4 free), and tickets carry a start time, so booking online in advance is smart, especially on rainy days, weekends, and school holidays when it's busiest.
- Is it open on Mondays?
- Usually no, NEMO is closed most Mondays but opens on selected Mondays during school holidays. It's also closed on King's Day (27 April 2026). Always check the current calendar if you're planning a Monday visit.
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Where to stay near NEMO Science Museum
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