Ripley's Believe It or Not Amsterdam: The Weirdest Museum in Town

If you’re walking through the vibrant Dam Square in Amsterdam and spot a building with a giant figure peeking from the rooftop, you’ve just found one of the city’s quirkiest attractions— Ripley's Believe It or Not Amsterdam . This museum of oddities and curiosities brings together the bizarre, the brain-bending, and the just plain unbelievable. From shrunken heads to a spinning vortex tunnel, it’s a place where the extraordinary becomes the norm.

What is Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam?

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam is part of the world-famous franchise known for collecting and showcasing oddities from across the globe. Based on the discoveries of Robert Ripley, the museum offers over 500 exhibits spread across five floors. Opened in 2016, it quickly became a favorite for both tourists and locals seeking something off the beaten path.

Whether you're into the macabre, the mysterious, or the just plain strange, you’ll find it here—from a piece of the Berlin Wall to a portrait made entirely of candy. The museum cleverly mixes fun facts with stunning visuals, offering a uniquely immersive experience.

Top Exhibits and Interactive Experiences

• Vortex Tunnel: A mind-bending experience where you walk through a rotating tunnel—it’s not for the faint of balance!
• Shrunken Heads: Real (yes, real) tsantsas from the Amazon that will both fascinate and creep you out.
• Optical Illusions: Pose with a two-headed creature or get swallowed by a giant mouth—perfect for your Instagram feed.
• Space Travel Section: Explore the weird and wonderful aspects of space exploration, including astronaut suits and meteorite fragments.
• Ripley’s Lounge: A futuristic café offering panoramic views over Dam Square—ideal for a break after all the oddities.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Here are some practical tips to make the most out of your visit to Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam:

• Buy tickets online to skip the line—weekends and holidays can get crowded.
• Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the full experience. There’s a lot to see, and many exhibits are interactive.
• Use the photo opportunities! There are dozens of Instagrammable spots—so have your camera ready.
• Multilingual information: Most exhibits have descriptions in English and Dutch, but some include other languages too.
• Combine with other attractions: Located right in Dam Square, you can easily pair your visit with the Royal Palace or Madame Tussauds.

Is It Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. If you’ve done the canals, museums, and markets and you’re ready for something a little more out there, Ripley’s delivers. It’s fun, educational, and interactive, which makes it a great stop for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Even repeat visitors to Amsterdam find new oddities to marvel at inside Ripley’s doors.

Kids especially love the weird and wonderful exhibits, and there’s enough humor and unexpected detail to keep adults entertained too. It’s not your average museum—it’s part amusement, part science, part shock factor, and 100% unforgettable.

Opening Hours and Ticket Info

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam is open daily, including holidays. Here are the latest details as of 2025:

• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Dam 21, 1012 JS Amsterdam
• Admission: Adults €24, Children (5–15) €17. Discounts available online.

You can also get combo tickets with other Amsterdam attractions if you're planning to visit multiple locations.

Fun Facts About Ripley’s Amsterdam

• It's housed in a former bank building—now transformed into a museum of marvels.
• The giant figure on the façade is “The Lizard Man,” a nod to one of Ripley’s most famous human curiosities.
• There’s a laser maze hidden inside—can you make it through without setting off alarms?

Summary and FAQ

Ripley's Believe It or Not Amsterdam is the go-to destination for weird, wonderful, and wildly entertaining experiences. With hundreds of oddities, hands-on fun, and mind-bending exhibits, it adds a dash of the unexpected to any Amsterdam itinerary. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor to the Dutch capital, this place is well worth squeezing into your day.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Ripley’s Believe It or Not Amsterdam suitable for kids?
  Yes! Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, strange creatures, and optical illusions. There’s nothing too scary, but parental guidance is advised for some exhibits like the shrunken heads.
• Can I visit without a reservation?
  Yes, but online reservations are recommended during busy seasons to skip the lines.
• Is it wheelchair accessible?
  Yes, the museum is fully accessible by elevator and offers assistance if needed.
• Can I take photos inside?
  Absolutely—photos and videos are encouraged! Just avoid flash in sensitive areas.
• Is it part of the I Amsterdam City Card?
  No, but combo deals with other attractions are often available online.