NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam is located to the west of Amsterdam Central Station. The striking green building 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 which takes you up to floor 5 (Dakplein).
It is freely open to the public – you do not need to pay admission to the museum.
The rooftop square was renovated in early 2025 and now has a more open plan with some wooden seating benches. There is a new green theme which features more wildlife-friendly plant areas at the sides of the roof. This has replaced the previous renewable energy installation.
Information boards explain the various features of the roof.
There is a small viewing platform at the top of the roof accessible by stairs which has an array of solar panels.
Looking out towards the west you will get views of central Amsterdam and Oosterdok which features Amsterdam’s central library (another good panorama point).
On the eastern side of NEMO is the Museum Haven (museum harbour) which contains a number of early 20th century boats. Further on you will also see Amsterdam’s Maritime Museum and the VOC ship.
At the very top you will find the rooftop restaurant for drinks and snacks.
There is also a new smaller cafe area at the bottom of the terrace.
The NEMO rooftop square is a pleasant place in central Amsterdam to both relax and enjoy a decent panorama. There are regular activities happening up on the rooftop, check in with the museum to see what’s on or ask one of the staff members on hand.
For panorama lovers, you will also find the Luminair rooftop bar and terrace nearby.
NEMO Science Museum Roof Essential Info
NEMO Rooftop Square Opening HoursOpen daily 10:00-17:30. In July and August it closes at 21:00. The roof can be closed off in the event of bad weather conditions. |
AdmissionFree entrance to the roof terrace. Entry to NEMO Science Museum costs €21.50. Children 0-3, Museumkaart and I Amsterdam City card holders get free entry. Book your tickets to NEMO online here |
NEMO LocationNEMO 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 Address / ContactNEMO Science Museum, Oosterdok 2, 1011 VX Amsterdam |
Last update 16 June 2025, originally published in 2010.
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