Micropia Amsterdam: Tickets, Hours & Is It Worth It?

You might think a museum dedicated entirely to microbes sounds a bit unsettling or even gross. I had the same hesitation before walking through the doors of Micropia. But this place isn't about dirty dishes or flu viruses. It is the world's only museum revealing the invisible life that shapes our existence, and it does so in a way that is visually stunning and incredibly interactive.

Located right next to the Artis Royal Zoo in the Plantage neighborhood of Amsterdam, Micropia offers a completely different experience from the classic canal tours or art galleries. Whether you are traveling with curious kids or just looking for something unique to do, here is everything you need to know before you visit.

Practical Information: Tickets & Opening Hours

Before we dive into the microscopic world, let's cover the essentials to help you plan your visit.

Entrance Fees 2026: You have a few options for tickets. If you are only visiting Micropia, the standard adult ticket is €17.50. For students, there is a significant discount, so definitely bring your student ID with you. Kids aged 3 to 12 enter for €10.00, and toddlers up to 2 years old enter for free.

If you plan to visit the Artis Zoo as well, buying a combination ticket is a smart move. You save money compared to buying them separately. However, keep in mind that doing both in one day can be tiring, especially with children.

• Opening Hours: Micropia is open daily.
• Monday - Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00
• Best time to visit: Try to go right when they open or after 15:00 to avoid the school groups and crowds.
• Is the Museum Card Valid?Yes, if you have a Museumkaart, entrance is free. You just need to scan your card at the entrance. The I amsterdam City Card also provides free access.

What to Expect Inside Micropia

The experience starts the moment you step into the elevator. Do not just look at your phone; look up at the ceiling of the elevator as you ascend. It sets the tone perfectly for what you are about to see.

The Body Scanner

One of the most popular interactive spots is the body scanner. You stand in front of a screen, and it shows you exactly which microbes live on different parts of your body. It sounds creepy, but seeing the biodiversity of your own eyelashes or stomach is fascinating. It transforms the abstract idea of "germs" into a realization that we are walking ecosystems.

The Kiss-o-Meter

This is a favorite for couples. You stand together and kiss while the meter measures the duration and intensity. Then, it calculates exactly how many microbes you just exchanged. It is a fun, laugh-out-loud moment that makes for a great story.

The Microbe Wall & Tardigrades

The museum displays real, living microbes. You can look through high-tech microscopes to see Tardigrades (water bears). These tiny creatures are practically indestructible; they can survive in space and withstand extreme radiation. Seeing them wiggle around with their little legs is strangely cute.

You will also see the decomposition area, where they show time-lapse videos of food breaking down. It might make you check your fridge dates more carefully when you get home, but it brilliantly demonstrates the cycle of life.

Is Micropia Suitable for Kids?

Absolutely. In fact, it might be more fun for them than for adults. When you enter, make sure to pick up a stamp card for each child. As they walk through the exhibit, there are stations where they can "collect" microbes by stamping their card.

It turns the visit into a scavenger hunt. The displays are at a good height for children, and the visuals are colorful and engaging rather than scary. It takes about 90 minutes to see everything, which is the perfect duration for younger attention spans.

Getting There

Micropia is located at Plantage Kerklaan 38-40. It is very central and easy to reach.

• By Tram: Take Tram 14 from Central Station and get off at the Artis stop.
• By Metro: The nearest stop is Waterlooplein. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk through a nice neighborhood.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

• Lockers: There are lockers available if you have heavy bags. You need a €0.50 coin to use them, which you get back.
• Lab Technicians: You can often see real lab technicians working in the lab section behind glass. If they are available, do not hesitate to wave or ask a question; they are usually happy to interact.
• Combine with Lunch: The neighborhood, De Plantage, has some excellent cafes. De Plantage cafe right next door is beautiful but can be pricey. For a quick bite, walk towards the university area nearby.

Micropia challenges the idea that microbes are just enemies. You leave with a new appreciation for the invisible world that keeps us alive. It is educational without being boring and interactive without being gimmicky.