Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam is a museum of modern and contemporary art and design on Museumplein, beside the Van Gogh Museum. Its collection spans from the late 19th century to the present, with paintings, photography, sculpture, furniture and other design works by Dutch and international artists. Look for names such as Piet Mondrian, Henri Matisse, Kazimir Malevich and Andy Warhol, and check what is on in the changing exhibitions. The contrast between the original brick building and its white, bathtub-shaped extension is part of the visit too.
A collection across art and design
The Stedelijk brings together modern and contemporary art with design from the late 19th century onward. The collection includes paintings, sculpture, photography, prints, posters, furniture, ceramics and jewellery. It is arranged across different floors, and the works on view change, so each visit can have a different focus.
Dutch artists and movements have a strong place here. Look for Piet Mondrian and Gerrit Rietveld, as well as work connected with De Stijl, the Amsterdam School and CoBrA. The collection also spans international movements such as Bauhaus, abstract expressionism, Pop Art and minimal art. Artists represented include Henri Matisse, Kazimir Malevich, Jackson Pollock, Wassily Kandinsky, Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol.
What to look for inside
The ground floor includes modern works and design-focused displays. Upper galleries are more spacious, with room to explore a range of collections and exhibitions. Photography, painting and drawing sit alongside objects such as furniture and ceramics, giving the museum a scope beyond paintings on walls.
Temporary exhibitions bring other artists and themes into the programme. Past shows have included an exhibition of photographs by Erwin Olaf and a presentation focused on designer Kho Liang Ie. Check the current programme before your visit if you have a particular interest; the displays change over time. Audio guides can add context to the works and exhibitions.
Two buildings, one museum
The museum’s original building dates to the 19th century and was designed by Adriaan Willem Weissman. Its red-brick exterior draws on Dutch architectural traditions. A white extension opened in 2012, designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects. Its unusual shape has earned it the nickname “the bathtub.”
The two parts look very different from outside, but meet within the museum. The extension’s white interior reflects an approach associated with former director Willem Sandberg, who used white as a neutral background for art. Take a moment to look at the building as well as the galleries: the contrast between old brick and the smooth white addition is a defining feature of the museum.
Preguntas frecuentes
What kind of art is at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam?
The collection covers modern and contemporary art and design, including paintings, photography, sculpture, prints, furniture and ceramics. It includes Dutch and international artists and works from the late 19th century onward.
How long do you need at the Stedelijk Museum?
Set aside at least two hours. The collection is spread across several floors, alongside changing exhibitions.
Is the Stedelijk Museum accessible to wheelchair users?
The museum has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator, restrooms and parking.
Do you need to book tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended, particularly at busy times, when booking ahead can help you avoid queues.
