If you’re in Amsterdam and hear about the Sex Museum, you might wonder what exactly to expect. It’s a small, lively place that shows the history of sexuality from ancient times to today’s pop culture. The museum sits in the heart of the Red Light District, so you can combine it with a walk around the canals, a coffee shop stop, or a night out.
The museum is on Warmoesstraat, just a few minutes’ walk from Central Station. Trams 4, 9, 13, and 14 stop nearby, making public transport the easiest choice. Opening hours are 10 am to 6 pm, Monday to Sunday, with a short lunch break at 2 pm. Arriving early helps you avoid the afternoon crowds, especially on weekends.
Adult tickets cost €15, and there’s a reduced price of €12 for students and seniors. You can buy tickets online to skip the line, or just grab one at the door. Inside, you’ll walk through five rooms that cover topics like ancient erotic art, 20th‑century erotic photography, and modern sex‑tech. The displays are honest and often funny, with plenty of interactive screens you can touch.
A guidebook is offered for free, and there are audio guides in several languages for €3. If you like deeper insight, the museum runs a 30‑minute guided tour twice a day. The guide will point out hidden details and answer any questions you have about the exhibits.
One of the most talked‑about pieces is a collection of vintage condoms and sex toys from the 1800s. Another highlight is a wall of famous erotic paintings, including works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. The final room looks at how the internet and apps have changed intimacy today.
Dress comfortably – the museum is small, and you’ll be walking a lot. Photography is allowed in most rooms, but flash is banned to protect delicate items. Keep your phone on silent; the museum wants to stay quiet for visitors who prefer a relaxed vibe.
If you’re traveling with kids, note that the museum is for adults 18+. It’s best to plan a separate activity for them, like a canal cruise or the NEMO science museum.
After you finish, step out onto Warmoesstraat and grab a bite at one of the many cafés. The nearby Oude Kerk (Old Church) is a great spot for a quick break, and you’ll still be close to the bustling nightlife of the Red Light District.
The Sex Museum is just a stone’s throw from the Red Light District’s famous window displays, the Amsterdam Museum, and the historic Amsterdam Cathedral. If you like art, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are a short tram ride away.
To make the most of your time, combine a museum visit with a canal boat tour. The waterway routes often pass by the museum’s canal, giving you a different perspective of the neighborhood.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a history buff, or just looking for something off the usual tourist track, the Sex Museum Amsterdam offers an eye‑opening, entertaining experience. With these tips in hand, you’ll feel ready to explore without any surprises.
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