The Hermitage Amsterdam opened in 2009. It’s housed in a former home for the elderly, known as Amstelhof. The imposing building with its 335-foot-wide (102-meter-wide) frontage on the Amstel River dates back to the late 17th century. In 2007 a 2-year project transformed the space to accommodate works of art that belong to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.
Past exhibitions at the museum have covered the Russian court of the 19th century and the pioneers of modern art from Matisse to Kandinsky. For those interested in viewing the building’s exterior, Amstel river cruises pass by regularly, as do select Segway tours. The hop-on hop-off bus stops nearby, and some city passes offer discount admission.
For art lovers, the museum is a must-visit while in Amsterdam.
Entry to the museum is via paid ticket. Children under 11 go free.
The museum is wheelchair accessible.
Visitors can still see the building’s original kitchens in the basement.
Hermitage Amsterdam is located along the Amstel River at Amstel 51, near Waterlooplein. It’s 10 minutes by tram from Central Station. There’s a limited number of parking spaces near the museum. Hop-on hop-off boats stop at Waterlooplein and hop-on hop-off buses stop nearby at the Jewish Historical Museum.
Hermitage Amsterdam is open year-round except for major holidays. The museum is busiest in the afternoons, so plan to arrive early for a quieter experience. The museum is near Amsterdam’s Botanical Garden, and a visit to both can be easily combined.
Amsterdam’s most famous flea market at Waterlooplein is just a short walk from the Hermitage Amsterdam, and it’s open six days a week (closed Sunday). With sellers offering everything from vintage fashion to antique furniture and second-hand books—as well as food trucks serving up delicious snacks—it’s fun to spend some time browsing here.
