Overview

Automatic sliding doors, platform or conventional lifts, good signage, an excellent accessible loo, friendly and helpful staff, a pleasant cafe and excellent displays on the history of Amsterdam - what's not to like?

Transport & Parking

Can't comment on the parking. The museum is about 15 minutes' wheel/ walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station (mainline rail, underground and tram hub) and about five minutes' wheel/walk from the Dam - the big square in the centre of the city. There is a team stop quite close to the museum but we did not use it, so can't comment. Not all Amsterdam trams are wheelchair accessible. Cobbles, tram lines, the absence of drop downs, inconsiderately parked bikes and vehicles mean that Amsterdam isn't the most wheelchair-friendly city but we encountered no insupetable obstacles as we wheeled/walked.

Access

They have gone to great lengths to make this complex set of historic buildings accessible, and there's a free leaflet showing wheelchair users how to navigate the museum. My wife was admitted at a concessionary rate and I was admitted free as her accompanist. Platform lifts and conventional lifts mean that all areas are accessible, though the wheelchair route doesn't follow the strict chronological sequence. However, the free plan enables visitors to do so, though this involves covering a bit more distance. All captions are in English as well as Dutch. Audio-guides (no extra cost) are available in English and essential to get the most out of the Amsterdam DNA displays - see below.

Toilets

Situated on the basement and on the top level. We only used the basement one. It was well-equipped with grab rails round the loo (side transfer possible from one side - right as you face the loo - only) a wheelchair-accessible washbasin, reasonable space to manoeuvre and one of those excellent alarm cords which are strung right round the room (apart from the doorway) about 18" above ground level. It would be within reach wherever in the room someone might fall. Hope they catch on on the UK.

Staff

Friendly and helpful. The staff member on the ticket desk spoke excellent English and made sure that we could find our way round.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

If time is limited, the section of the museum called Amsterdam DNA gives an excellent overview of the city's history using audio visual displays, paintings and other exhibits. Football fans won't want to miss the small display about Ajax on the top floor. The cafe is a pleasant place to have coffee and cake or a light meal and is fully accessible.

Photos