Explore Museum Square ahead of your planned museum visits to take in the elegant sights and bustling atmosphere of one of the most-visited green spaces in Amsterdam.
Stand in front of the massive and iconic I Amsterdam letters for a touristy photo to prove you made it to this legendary European capital. Wander over to the Ass’s Ear, a triangular and supposedly ear-shaped stretch of lawn that rises from one corner of the square. This feature covers part of the underground additions made to the square during its 1999 remodeling, including a supermarket where you can buy drinks and sandwiches for a picnic on the lawn.
On a sunny day, relax by the water feature near the Rijksmuseum or glide across its surface in winter, when the pond is converted to an ice-skating rink.
Originally laid out for the International Colonial and Export Exhibition in 1883, Museum Square became a permanent fixture after the completion of the Rijksmuseum in 1885. Better known by the Dutch name of Museumplein (“plein” meaning “square”), this central hub remains a vital part of a culturally and historically rich district today.
While named for the massive Rijksmuseum at its northeastern end, Museum Square has two more world-famous art museums adorning it and is also overlooked by the Amsterdam Concert Hall (Concertgebouw) and other elegant buildings.
The elegant Rijksmuseum focuses on ancient art, including The Night Watch by Rembrandt and many other famous paintings by Dutch masters, while the ultra-modern Stedelijk Museum (City Museum) showcases contemporary creations. In between, the partly underground Van Gogh Museum tells the heartbreaking story of one of the world’s most famous painters.
Check Amsterdam’s cultural events guide to see if there is a festival, market or concert planned in the square during your stay. One of the most iconic community celebrations that is not to be missed is Koningsdag (Kings Day) on April 27, when Museum Square is heaving with partying locals and becomes a sea of orange.
Museum Square is freely accessible year round. The green square is located to the southeast of the city center and is easily reached on foot, by bicycle, tram, hop-on/hop-off canal cruise, bus or taxi.
