Vriend van Bavink
Vriend van Bavink is a gallery in Amsterdam.
🌐 vanbavinkgallery.com🕒 Tu-Fr 10:00-17:30; Sa 13:00-17:30
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NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam
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museum
The NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is the largest science center in the Netherlands and a striking architectural landmark located on the IJ riverfront. Opened in 1997, the building was designed by the world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano and is famous for its ship-like silhouette and pre-oxidized green copper cladding. NEMO was uniquely constructed directly on top of the IJ Tunnel's entrance, requiring innovative engineering to balance its massive weight. Across its five floors, the museum features hands-on interactive exhibits that make scientific phenomena and technological advancements engaging for visitors of all ages. A major highlight is its expansive rooftop terrace, designed as the highest public square in the Netherlands, offering spectacular panoramic views of Amsterdam's historic center. The museum's philosophy centers on 'learning by doing,' emphasizing experimentation and physical demonstrations. NEMO successfully merges modern architecture with interactive education, making it one of the country's most popular cultural destinations.
- Location: North Holland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Vriend van Bavink · Energetica - Rooftop NEMO Science Center · Nemo
- Nearby: Diemen (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 12 | 8 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 64 | 53 | 40 | 57 | 63 | 81 | 90 | 70 | 78 | 76 | 81 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
NEMO Science Museum is fully open to visitors and features interactive exhibitions. Access to the roof with a nice view is also possible.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:30. It is usually closed on Mondays except during school holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most exhibition areas without flash. At some interactive stations, photography may be restricted for safety reasons.
Time needed
Allow at least two to three hours to try out the many interactive experiments. Families with children often spend half a day here.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Maritime Museum or a walk through Oosterpark. Amsterdam Central Station is also within walking distance.
Getting there
NEMO is located directly on Oosterdok and is about a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. Alternatively, take bus 22 or the ferry.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a walk on the roof, which has a great view over Amsterdam. On weekends, the museum is often busy - come early.
Geography
Facts
- NEMO welcomes more than 670,000 visitors every year.
- Renzo Piano designed the building to look like a ship emerging from the water.
- The copper skin of the building is approximately 10,000 square meters in size.
- The rooftop terrace is the only high-altitude public park in Amsterdam.
- The museum originally opened under the name 'NewMetropolis' in June 1997.
- It features a giant 'Chain Reaction' machine that demonstrates energy transfer.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Frequently asked questions
Is NEMO suitable for children?
Yes, it is one of the most child-friendly museums around.
Who designed the building?
The famous architect Renzo Piano.
Is the roof terrace free?
Yes, access to the roof is free for everyone.
What can you do at NEMO?
Interactive experiments about science and technology.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan for about 3 to 4 hours.
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam: where is it located?
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam is located in North Holland, Netherlands.
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vriend van Bavink, Energetica - Rooftop NEMO Science Center, Nemo.
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
NEMO Science Museum Amsterdam: why is it worth visiting?
The NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is the largest science center in the Netherlands and a striking architectural landmark located on the IJ riverfront.
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