Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is part of the world famous exhibition of waxworks of prominent people and celebrities. Book Madame Tussauds Amsterdam tickets here
It is located on Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam in a 5-storey limestone building (built in 1917) that it shares with the Peek & Cloppenburg department store.
Madame Tussauds is named after Frenchwoman Marie Tussaud née Grosholtz (1761-1850) who established a travelling wax figures exhibition in the early 19th century. The first Madame Tussauds permanent exhibit was founded on Baker Street in London in 1835, before moving in 1884 to its current location on Marylebone Road.
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam was opened in 1970 and became the second Tussauds attraction after London. As of today there are over 25 Tussauds locations worldwide over 4 continents run by Merlin Entertainment Group.
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is divided into different themed zones: A-list, Royals, Music, Fashion, Sports, I AM ART and DJ’s. There is a final section on Marvel Avengers.
Extensive work goes into the making of each figure at a cost of around €250,000. The whole process takes 9 months in London with the head being made from wax and the body made up of lighter fibreglass. On completion the figures are brought to Amsterdam by car and ferry.
There is some local Dutch interest with figures of the Dutch Royals, singers, sports stars, DJs and television presenters. There is also a room featuring Anne Frank.
The exhibition includes various interactive hands-on activities. For extra charge it is possible to get a wax model of your own hands.
One of the stand-out features of the Madame Tussauds building is the large round window at the top which gives an excellent panoramic view of Damrak and Dam Square.
A visit to Madame Tussauds Amsterdam takes about 1 hour though this can be longer if you spend time on the interactive elements or taking lots of photos. Note, it is permitted to touch the figures.
There is a small bar (Café De Gouden Bitterbal) within the exhibition.
With its prime location on Dam Square, Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is still drawing in the crowds. Due to its popularity it is recommended to book a timeslot in advance – although anytime day tickets can also be purchased for a premium. Generally late afternoons/early evenings are quieter than the mornings.
If you enjoy getting up-close and personal with celebrity waxworks then Madame Tussauds could make for a fun visit.
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam Essential Info
| Opening Times | Daily 1000-2000. |
| Admission Prices (2024) | Online saver tickets with timeslots cost from €23.50 for adults and €19.50 for children 3-15. FREE entry for children 0-2 and Go City All Inclusive Pass holders. An anytime day ticket costs from €37.50 for adults and €33.50 for children 3-15. There is a 25% discount for I Amsterdam City card holders. Note, the Museumkaart is NOT valid. |
| Getting There | Madame Tussauds is located on Dam Square, 10-15 minutes walk from Amsterdam Central station. |
Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, Dam 20, 1012 NP Amsterdam
T: +31(0)20 522 1010
Last updated 16 January 2024. This article was first published in 2023.
Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.
