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FOAM Photography Museum Amsterdam

FOAM – Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam – is a renowned photography museum on the Keizersgracht canal in the centre of Amsterdam. Book FOAM tickets here

It holds regular exhibitions of photos from both noted international and younger up-and-coming photographers. FOAM has become the most visited photography museum in the Netherlands.

The FOAM museum opened its doors in 2001. The listed building at Keizersgracht 609 was originally a former canal warehouse which was converted into the Fodor Museum in 1863 (which was subsequently shut down in 1993).

foam museum amsterdam entrance
FOAM Museum Amsterdam – entrance area

The large canal house has a pleasant, relaxed ambience with modern interior. The first exhibition room on the ground floor has large windows giving views out to the lush garden – although unfortunately this outdoor area is not accessible to the public.

foam museum gallery exhibition
FOAM Museum Amsterdam – exhibition gallery from entrance

FOAM Amsterdam normally runs 2-4 simultaneous exhibitions which provides some variety for the visitor. FOAM can feature contrasting photographic styles – from street and landscape photography to more artistic work including visual installations.

Exhibitions are spread over 4 floors of the house and run for approximately 3 months.

foam amsterdam exhibition gallery
FOAM Museum Amsterdam – exhibition gallery

FOAM 3h is a project space where recently graduated photographers can present their first solo exhibition.

FOAM also runs a variety of workshops, podcasts and discussions about photography. FOAM publishes its FOAM magazine about 3 times per year for an international audience.

foam museum amsterdam gallery space
FOAM Museum Amsterdam – gallery space

At the museum there is a FOAM Café for snacks and drinks with free WiFi available. There is a shop in the foyer which sells FOAM magazines, photography-themed books and posters.

FOAM editions is the in-house gallery where it is possible to purchase prints and unique pieces.

For photography enthusiasts FOAM is certainly worth a visit. A short walk away along the Keizersgracht is also the Huis Marseille Photography Museum.

FOAM Museum Essential Info

Opening Times1000-1800 (Sat-Wed), 1000-2100 (Thu-Fri).
Admission Prices (2024)€16 for adults, €12.80 for students and €11.75 for CJP cultural youth pass holders. FREE entry for children 0-12, Museumkaart and Iamsterdam City Card holders. Cash is not accepted at the front desk. Special exhibitions may attract a small supplement.

You can book FOAM tickets online here 

Alternatively, order the Iamsterdam City Card online here which includes free entrance to FOAM.

Getting ThereFOAM museum is located on the Keizersgracht canal a short walk from Muntplein. Walk down Vijzelstraat and turn left onto the Keizersgracht (north side). Metro 52 stops at nearby Vijzelgracht.

FOAM Photography Museum, Keizersgracht 609, 1017 DS Amsterdam
T: +31(0)20 551 6500, foam.org

Last updated 10 January 2024. This article was first published in 2010 and has been regularly updated.

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