Exploring Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems: Moco Museum Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its fantastic museums, the most well-known being the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank’s House. They are all very impressive, and you should not skip them if you are in Amsterdam—that would be a crime! However, a few hidden gems deserve your attention: Moco Museum Amsterdam (or, as I prefer to call it, the Banksy Museum) is one of them!

The mission of the Moco Museum

Do you know the story behind the name Moco? Moco stands for MOdern and COntemporary Art, and the museum’s exhibition will deliver exactly this.

Moco Museum’s mission is to make modern and contemporary art accessible to a broader audience. They focus on proven artists with a unique vision, try to tear down barriers and challenge the most traditional art concepts.

You can find Moco Museums in two different locations: Amsterdam (the Netherlands) and Barcelona (Spain). The third location, in London (United Kingdom), is coming this summer 2024.

Discovering Moco Museum Amsterdam

Moco Museum Amsterdam opened its doors in 2016 and has since seen an ever-increasing number of visitors, all interested in learning more about modern and contemporary art. It is located in a historical townhouse overlooking the famous Museumplein (the same square where the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum are located).

The permanent exhibition features the work of timeless Modern Masters such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, and Yayoi Kusama, as well as Contemporary artists such as Marina Abramović, with her The Hero performance and Tracey Emin, with More of You.

But if you ask me, the best part is the exhibition of Banksy‘s most iconic work. I still remember when I first got to know Banksy and its work as a teenager, and many years later, it hasn’t stopped fascinating me. The exhibit proposes Laugh Now, Girl with Balloon, Flower Thrower, and Smiling Copper, among many others.

This is the Moco Museum’s permanent exhibition. Moco Museum Amsterdam keeps its exhibitions ever-evolving, so every visit is a fresh experience. Occasionally, this means some artworks online are not always on view in the museum. In addition, the museum often runs temporary exhibits, so check its website for the latest news on the exposition available.

You can expect a fun and interactive experience that is definitely different from the usual museum experience!

Surroundings

As mentioned, Moco Museum Amsterdam is located in Museumplein, in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid neighborhood. You can easily reach Moco Museum Amsterdam via public transport (it takes only 15 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station, using either the tram or the metro). And it is also conveniently located in the middle of the city, making it a great destination for a lovely walk.

Apart from other museums and a few areas where you can sit and enjoy the view of the historical buildings, Museumplein only offers a few options for food and drinks. If you want one of the best fine-dining experiences, you should check out Rijks restaurant. If instead you look for a quick bite or brunch, you can easily walk towards De Pijp (it takes just 10 minutes to walk) and pick any of the lovely places recommended on this brunch list.

Practical info

Check the link for more information related to tickets availability and ongoing exhibitions. Don’t forget to buy your ticket online to avoid queues and sold-out days!

• Opening times: Moco Museum Amsterdam is open 7 days a week between 9.00 and 20.00 (except on Saturday when they close at 18.00) 
• Entrance fee: €24.95 for adults, €21.95 for 7 to 17 years old 

For more hidden gems, check out Fabrique des Lumières and Straat Museum guides.