National Museum of Military History
Explore centuries of military heritage with vast collections of vehicles, uniforms, and artifacts. A must-visit for history buffs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy a relaxed visit
National Museum of Military History
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy a relaxed visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of military heritage with vast collections of vehicles, uniforms, and artifacts. A must-visit for history buffs.
"Blown away by the layout and all the history on display. Definitely one of the best military museums!"
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Give yourself several hours; you'll want to see it all! Don't rush your visit .
Check Ticket Options 🎟️
Explore different ticket packages for access to outdoor exhibits and specific floors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Vehicle Collection
Museum Grounds
A vast array of tanks, armored vehicles, and aircraft, primarily from WWII and the Cold War.

Themed Exhibit Wings
Main Museum Building
Ascend through different eras of military history, exploring uniforms, medals, and equipment.

Bulgarian Military History
Main Museum Building
A superb building layout guiding you through the comprehensive history of Bulgaria's military.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit Duration
Ticket Options & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Is the National Military Museum worth it? Easy to get to from Amsterdam Centraal?
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Give yourself several hours; you'll want to see it all! Don't rush your visit.
Check Ticket Options 🎟️
Explore different ticket packages for access to outdoor exhibits and specific floors.
Tourist from America!
Military History Museum
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast collections.
Great for History Buffs 👍
If you love military history, this museum is a must-visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Give yourself several hours; you'll want to see it all! Don't rush your visit.
Check Ticket Options 🎟️
Explore different ticket packages for access to outdoor exhibits and specific floors.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast collections.
Great for History Buffs 👍
If you love military history, this museum is a must-visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Military Museum for its extensive and high-quality collections, particularly the impressive outdoor display of military vehicles. The well-organized layout and informative exhibits make it a highly engaging experience for history enthusiasts. Some visitors note that it's easy to spend several hours here and recommend planning accordingly.
"Very interesting and informative. There are different ticket packages depending on how much you want to see.
The entrance exhibition is free, but you can also buy a ticket for the 2nd outdoor exhibition or choose a package to access the other floors.
Worth exploring if you have time."
Pamela
"This was so much more than what I could have imagined. The extent and quality of the museum was incredible. The staff were kind and helpful.
As you enter the grounds you see a large quality of vehicles, aircraft and other equipment, mostly from WWII and the cold war era.
The museum itself is a multi-level building that is laid out very well. There is a center staircase and as you ascend you enter a different time period. Each of the wings has a different theme (clothing, medals/awards, equipment, etc)."
Thomas Winslett
"Visited on a Sunday morning, no queue, no wait; you just enter. Great museum, a lot to see: a lot of tanks, armored vehicles, and aviation-related stuff. The museum building is superb and leads you through all of the history of Bulgaria."
Vito Habjanič
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Military Museum is located in Den Dolder. From Amsterdam Centraal, you can take a train towards Utrecht or Amersfoort and alight at the Den Dolder station. The museum is accessible via public transit to the Den Dolder stop, though it's worth checking specific routes and travel times for the most efficient journey.
Yes, public transport is a viable option to reach the museum. The Den Dolder stop is often mentioned as a convenient point of arrival, from where you can proceed to the museum grounds.
Information on parking availability and fees is best checked directly with the museum, but typically large attractions offer on-site parking for visitors.
The Netherlands is very bike-friendly. If you are in the vicinity, cycling might be a pleasant option, with potential for bike parking at the museum.
The museum is generally well-laid out, with modern facilities. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for specific accessibility information regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance exhibition is free. However, to access the outdoor exhibitions and other floors, you will need to purchase a ticket. Various ticket packages are available.
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official National Military Museum website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time, especially during peak seasons. Check the museum's website for online booking options.
The museum may offer discounted rates for specific groups like students, seniors, or families. Inquire directly or check their website for details on pricing and concessions.
The free entrance exhibition typically provides an introduction to the museum's themes and collections, offering a glimpse into the military history on display.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3-4 hours, and potentially more if you're deeply interested in military history, to fully appreciate the extensive collections.
Key attractions include the vast outdoor collection of tanks and aircraft, as well as the multi-level indoor exhibits showcasing uniforms, medals, weapons, and historical documents.
Yes, the museum is generally considered suitable for children, especially those interested in vehicles and military history. The outdoor displays are particularly engaging for younger visitors.
Guided tours can enhance the visitor experience by providing deeper insights into the exhibits. Check the museum's schedule or inquire upon arrival about available guided tours.
The museum features a central staircase that leads visitors through different historical periods as they ascend. Wings are often themed by type of artifact, such as clothing, equipment, or weaponry.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most large museums have an on-site cafe or restaurant offering refreshments and light meals. It's best to check the museum's website for current dining facilities and menus.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas is discouraged. However, designated picnic areas might be available, especially for outdoor spaces. Confirm with the museum.
Museum cafes typically offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other beverages. Options can vary, so checking their menu online is recommended.
Depending on the museum's location, there may be local eateries or cafes in the surrounding area. Researching nearby dining options can provide more variety.
Some museums offer event spaces or party packages. Inquire with the museum's event planning department for possibilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most museum areas, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Yes, the outdoor collection of tanks, aircraft, and other vehicles is a popular spot for photography. These large exhibits are usually very accessible for pictures.
Certain sensitive exhibits or temporary displays might have photography restrictions. Be mindful of any posted signs or guidelines provided by museum staff.
Drone usage is almost always prohibited within museum grounds and airspace due to safety and privacy concerns. Check the museum's specific drone policy if you have any questions.
The outdoor vehicle displays, especially tanks and aircraft, offer dramatic photo opportunities. Inside, the well-lit exhibit wings with diverse artifacts also provide excellent backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Military History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
Inside, the museum is thoughtfully laid out with a central staircase acting as a guide. As you ascend, you move through different historical periods, with each wing dedicated to specific themes. These include uniforms, medals, awards, weaponry, and important historical documents. The presentation is designed to be engaging, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of military technology, strategy, and the human element of warfare. The museum's establishment in 1916 signifies its long-standing commitment to preserving military heritage.
Visitor Experience and Tips
When planning your visit, consider the ticket options. While the entrance exhibition is free, purchasing tickets for the outdoor displays or package deals can significantly enhance your experience. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll be doing a considerable amount of walking across both indoor and outdoor areas. For those traveling with children, the museum offers engaging displays, particularly the large vehicles, making it a suitable outing for families interested in history.
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