The NEMO Science Museum is an interactive science and technology museum where visitors of all ages can learn through hands-on experiences. It’s one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam, especially among families with children. If you’re curious about everyday science, technology and how things work, then the NEMO Science Museum is a fantastic place to visit.
In this article, you’ll learn more about the NEMO Science Museum, what to expect during your visit, opening hours and tickets, as well as practical travel tips to help you plan ahead.
Contents
About NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum traces its origins back to the 1920s, when Dutch painter Herman Heijenbrock founded the Museum van de Arbeid (Museum of Labor). Fascinated by industry and technology, he began collecting industrial objects that later formed the basis of the museum’s collection.
Over the decades, the museum evolved and was renamed several times before becoming the NEMO Science Museum in 2000. Today, it is housed in a striking copper-green building designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano. Shaped like a ship and built on top of a tunnel, the museum is one of Amsterdam’s architectural landmarks and features a sloping rooftop terrace covered with thousands of plants, offering wonderful panoramic views of the city. The NEMO Science Museum is an interactive science and technology museum where visitors of all ages can learn through hands-on experiences.
What to See at the NEMO Science Museum
The NEMO Science Museum consists of five floors, each dedicated to a different scientific theme.
- Fenomena (1st floor): This floor introduces the basics of science and physics. Visitors explore how everyday phenomena work, such as light, sound, gravity, and optical illusions, through interactive experiments.
- Technium (2nd floor): Technium focuses on technological innovation and how technology has shaped society. A strong emphasis is placed on water management, showcasing how the Dutch use engineering to control water, prevent flooding, and treat drinking water.
- Elementa (3rd floor): Elementa explores the universe and natural sciences. Learn about the Big Bang, planets, stars, and the building blocks of matter, with exhibits that explain complex concepts in an accessible way.
- Humania (4th floor): This floor is dedicated to the human body. Discover how your brain works, how your senses function, and what influences your health, emotions, and behavior.
- Energetica (5th floor, rooftop): The open-air exhibition focuses on energy. Visitors learn about renewable and non-renewable energy sources such as wind, water, and solar power, and how energy is produced and used today.
Note: The rooftop is closed during bad weather, special events, New Year’s Day and King’s Day (27th April). If rooftop access is important to you, check conditions in advance.
The museum holds a collection of approximately 19,500 objects related to the history of science and technology. What makes NEMO special is that nearly every floor offers interactive experiments, demonstrations, workshops, and hands-on activities.
Is Nemo Science worth It?
Absolutely. The NEMO Science Museum is especially worthwhile for families with children and anyone interested in science and technology presented in a fun and accessible way. The interactive nature of the museum makes learning engaging rather than overwhelming. The variety of exhibits ensures there’s something for every age group. Even if you don’t usually enjoy traditional museums, you’ll find NEMO entertaining and educational.
Travel Planning Tips
Get the most out of your NEMO visit our travel planning tips.
Tickets & Admission
As of 2026, tickets cost €21.50 for visitors aged 4 years and older. Children under 4 enter for free. Tickets must be booked online in advance, as no tickets are sold at the entrance. You also need to reserve a specific date and time, which is common for museums in Amsterdam. Once inside, however, you can explore the museum at your own pace.
You’ll enjoy NEMO Science Museum is free entry with the I amsterdam City Card, making it a great value if you plan to visit multiple attractions. Read our full I amsterdam City Card review to see if it’s worth it for your trip.
Best Time to Visit
The museum is generally quieter on weekdays. Weekends and school holidays are usually much busier, especially with families.
How Much Time to Spend
Most visitors spend around 3 hours at the NEMO Science Museum. If you’re short on time or visiting mainly for the highlights, about 1 – 1.5 hours is sufficient to see all floors briefly.
How to Get There
The NEMO Science Museum is located close to Amsterdam Central Station and is easy to reach.
- By car: NEMO does not have its own parking facilities. Parking in Amsterdam is expensive, but nearby options include Parking Centrum Oosterdok.
- By public transport: From Amsterdam Central Station, take Bus 22 and get off at Kadijksplein.
- On foot: The museum is about a 15-minute walk from Central Station. Exit the station on the city side, turn left, and follow the signs toward Oosterdok.
Address: Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
Nearby Attractions
The NEMO Science Museum is located in the Oosterdok area, close to several popular attractions:
- Scheepvaartmuseum (National Maritime Museum): Learn about the Netherlands’ maritime history and see historic ships.
- Oosterdok Public Library (OBA): One of Europe’s largest libraries, with a rooftop café offering great city views.
- ARTIS Zoo: Amsterdam’s historic zoo is within walking distance.
NEMO at Schiphol
If you’re short on time before leaving Amsterdam, you can still get a taste of the museum at NEMO at Schiphol Airport. This smaller exhibition features nine interactive installations and offers free entry. You’ll find it behind passport control on the first floor, between gates E and F.
Free Amsterdam Travel Ressources
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