NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is located just west of Amsterdam Central Station.
The striking green building is shaped like a ship’s hull and was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano. It is possible to go up onto its sloping stepped roof – where you can relax and enjoy fine views of the surrounding area – especially during good weather.
The NEMO panorama terrace is up to 22m high and can be reached by climbing up the steps on the eastern edge of the building. There is also a lift which is accessible from the museum foyer. It is freely open to the public – you do not need to pay admission to the museum.
The terrace has a ‘piazza’ city square theme with outdoor benches. An interactive installation on renewable energy (Energetica) features wind turbines, solar chairs and a sundial stage.
At the centre of the roof is a 4,000 litre water cascade feature which flows through 30 pools and receptacles.
At the top of the western side is the circular Viewpoint where Dutch artist Jan Rothuizen has illustrated the main features of the Amsterdam panorama which can be seen.
Around NEMO is the Museum Haven (museum harbour) which contains a number of early 20th century boats. Further to the east you will also see Amsterdam’s Maritime Museum and VOC ship; to the west are views of the Oosterdok development and central Amsterdam.
At the very top you will find the rooftop restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating for drinks and snacks.
The NEMO rooftop terrace is a pleasant place in central Amsterdam to both relax and enjoy a decent panorama.
NEMO Science Museum Roof Essential Info
| Opening Times | NEMO Science Museum and roof terrace is open 1000-1730 Tue-Sun. Note, in 2024 NEMO is also open 1000-1730 on Mondays between April and September plus on other Dutch school holidays. Note, roof access may be closed off during bad weather. |
| Admission Prices (2024) | Free entrance to roof terrace. Entry to NEMO costs €17.50. Whilst children 0-3 get in for free, those 4 and over have to pay the full admission price. Museumkaart and I amsterdam City card holders get free entry. Pre-book your tickets to NEMO online here |
| Getting There | NEMO is easily reached walking east from Amsterdam Central Station towards Oosterdok (10-15 mins walk). By public transport take GVB bus 43 (direction: Borneo Eiland) or GVB bus 22 (direction: Muiderpoortstation) from the Central station IJ-side. Get out at stop Kadijksplein and walk 5-10 mins. |
NEMO Science Museum, Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam
T: +31(0)20 531 3233, nemosciencemuseum.nl
Last update 23 January 2024, originally published in 2010.
