The iconic Dutch Capital is world famous for cheeky things, whether that’s a joint in a smoky coffee shop, a glimpse behind velvet curtains or one of the many “shows” in the red light district.
But what about the history, I hear you crying out? Well, maybe not–I don’t pretend to be the world’s biggest history buff, but I have been to a good few museums, and the Museum of sex in Amsterdam is a good one.
What Exactly is the Amsterdam Sex Museum?
Known by the more classy than I as the temple of Venus, the Roman goddess of beauty, this place dates back to 1985. Apparently, it is the world’s oldest sex museum. But don’t go in expecting a dry, academic history lesson–this place is unapologetically bizarre, playful, and entertaining. It’s packed with vintage erotic art, historical curiosities, and some downright strange (but weirdly fascinating) artefacts from around the world. Think statues, paintings, and early photography, right through to oddball mechanical displays that will make you jump.
First Impressions
The sex museum in Damrak is about 5 minutes from Central Station, so it’s super easy to walk to. As you enter, there is a small ticket counter on the right where you can also get a few souvenirs on the way out. As you make your way through the first few exhibits, be sure to check every nook and cranny, you sort of wind your way through the building where there are moving displays, cabinets full of the sort of stuff pictured below and plenty of fun statues.
Exhibits and Highlights
The first exhibits you come across are on the ground floor and range from displays full of old school porn to a mini remake of an old red light district street. From what I could tell, not much has changed except for the outdoor sex and seemingly endless supply of flashers.
On that note, watch out for the moving display just after you walk in, a man jumps out of the darkness and opens his trench coat. This is probably the point where even the most liberal parents send the kids to McDonald’s down the road and carry on exploring.
On the upper levels, there are displays on ancient Greek, Roman and Chinese sex customs, practices and artefacts, plus an animated Marlyn Monroe section. Be sure to check out the toilets for some ornate taps and seats.
Good Vibes and Family Fun
Okay, so maybe don’t bring the kids… Or do? I am too childless to judge, but I can say the museum is a fun place for couples. It isn’t dark and dingy–surprisingly for a small, narrow Amsterdam building, but pretty light-hearted and informative.
Worth the Visit?
Amsterdam sex museum tickets are only €10, which is an absolute bargain when you compare it to the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, Heineken experience and other Amsterdam activities (maybe those three things shouldn’t be in the same list–sorry, more cultured people). Regardless, a weekend in Amsterdam is a tough budget trip these days, so finding something as entertaining as this for the cost of a joint and a coffee was great.
Cost aside, the sex museum in Damrak is entertaining, fun and informative at the same time. Once you get past the mechatronic flasher (pictured above), there are plenty of displays on the history of sex work in the Netherlands as well as further afield.
FAQ
Sex Museum Amsterdam: How Long Does It Take?
I would schedule anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, it just depends on how much time you want to spend milling around.
Sex Museum Amsterdam Hours
As of writing, the museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day.
Sex Museum Amsterdam Age Restriction
Since visiting, I have checked and can confirm you must be 16 or older to visit.
Amsterdam Sex Museum Ticket Prices
As of today, the price is € 10, there is really no need to book or pay in advance, just show up and enjoy.
