Introduction to the Anne Frank House
Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is more than just a regular museum experience—it’s a deeply emotional journey through one of the most touching and powerful stories of the 20th century. The house, located on Prinsengracht canal, is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. Today, it has become one of Amsterdam’s most visited cultural landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Who was Anne Frank?
Anne Frank was a young Jewish girl whose diary became one of the most famous accounts of life under Nazi occupation. During her two years in hiding, she wrote down her thoughts, dreams, and fears, which later became the world-famous book The Diary of a Young Girl. Her story resonates with people across generations, making the Anne Frank House an essential destination for anyone visiting Amsterdam.
Anne Frank House
Plan your visit to the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam by booking your tickets online through the official website. Tickets are limited and only sold online
Note: We are an independent travel guide. Tickets are purchased via official partners – we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why Visit the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam?
The Anne Frank Museum is not just another stop on a tourist map—it’s a unique cultural and educational experience that leaves a lasting impact.
A Unique Historical Experience
When you step inside the museum, you’re transported back to the 1940s. Every corner tells a story, from the original bookcase that concealed the entrance to the secret annex to Anne’s preserved diary pages. Unlike history books, the museum allows you to physically walk through the space where Anne lived, making history tangible and personal.Why is the Anne Frank House so famous?
Unlike traditional museums filled with artifacts and art collections, the Anne Frank House is an immersive journey into history. Walking through the narrow hidden passages and secret rooms gives visitors a real sense of how the Frank family lived in hiding. It’s not only a memorial to Anne but also a strong reminder of the consequences of intolerance and war.
Emotional and Educational Journey
Visiting the Anne Frank House is an emotional journey that goes beyond simple sightseeing. Many visitors describe it as a life-changing experience. It’s a chance to reflect on themes such as freedom, human rights, and tolerance—topics that remain extremely relevant today. For families, students, and history lovers, the museum is both heartbreaking and enlightening, leaving you with lessons that stay long after your visit.
How to Buy Anne Frank House Tickets Online
Planning ahead is essential if you want to visit the Anne Frank Museum. Tickets are not sold at the entrance, so buying them online in advance is the only way to secure your spot.
Official Ticket Website & Availability
Tickets for the Anne Frank House are available exclusively on the official website You can book securely here.. Be cautious of third-party resellers, as they often charge higher prices or sell invalid tickets. Official tickets guarantee entry and allow you to select your preferred date and time slot.
When to Book Your Tickets (Best Timing)
The museum is one of the busiest attractions in Amsterdam, so it’s highly recommended to book your tickets as early as possible. Tickets usually go on sale two months in advance. If you’re visiting during peak tourist season (April to September), you may need to book weeks in advance to secure your spot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking
- 1. Go to the official Anne Frank House ticket website.
- 2. Select your preferred date and time slot.
- 3. Choose the type of ticket (standard entry or entry with introductory program).
- 4. Fill in visitor details and complete payment online.
- 5. Download your e-ticket and bring it with you (digital tickets are accepted).
Pro Tip: Time slots are strict, so arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid missing your entry window.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
Ticket prices are kept affordable to ensure that as many people as possible can experience this historic landmark.
Adult Tickets
General admission for adults is priced at around €16, which includes access to the museum and the secret annex. Considering the unique historical value, it’s one of the most meaningful cultural experiences in Amsterdam.
Student and Youth Discounts
Students and young visitors benefit from reduced ticket prices. Children aged 10–17 years usually pay around €7, making it budget-friendly for families.
Free Entry Options for Children
Children under the age of 10 years can often enter free of charge, although you must still book their ticket online in advance to secure their time slot.
These affordable prices, combined with the museum’s powerful storytelling, make the Anne Frank House one of the best-value attractions in Amsterdam.
| Ticket Type | Description | Price / Discounts | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Entry Ticket | Access to the museum and secret annex. | Adults: €16 Children 10–17: €7 Children under 10: Free |
First-time visitors exploring at their own pace. |
| Museum + Introductory Program | Includes a 30-minute presentation about Anne Frank’s life and historical context. | Same pricing as standard ticket. | Visitors wanting deeper understanding before exploring. |
| Combined Tours | Walking tour of Jewish Quarter or Jordaan neighborhood plus timed entry to the museum. | Varies by tour operator. | Those seeking a broader perspective on Amsterdam’s WWII history. |
Different Ticket Options Explained
Not all tickets to the Anne Frank Museum are the same. Depending on your interests and budget, you can choose from several ticket types.
Standard Entry Ticket
This is the most common option, giving you access to the museum and the secret annex. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore the historic site at their own pace.
Museum + Introductory Program
For those who want more context before entering the museum, this option includes a 30-minute presentation about Anne Frank’s life, the historical background, and the impact of her diary. It’s highly recommended if you want a deeper understanding before exploring on your own.
Combined Tours (Anne Frank + Amsterdam Walking Tours)
Many tour operators in Amsterdam offer combined packages where you can join a walking tour through the Jewish Quarter or Jordaan neighborhood, followed by a timed entry ticket to the Anne Frank House. These tours provide a broader perspective on Amsterdam’s history during WWII.
Skip-the-Line Tickets and Guided Tours
If you’ve ever visited a popular museum, you know that standing in line can eat up valuable travel time. The Anne Frank House is one of the busiest attractions in Amsterdam, and waiting times can stretch for hours—unless you book smart.
Why Skip-the-Line Tickets are Worth It
Unlike many other museums, the Anne Frank House only sells tickets with specific time slots. This means that in practice, you’re already skipping the line when booking online. However, if you book through a combined package (such as a guided walking tour plus museum entry), you’ll usually get priority access. This saves time and ensures you won’t be left outside on busy days. For travelers with limited schedules, skip-the-line options are absolutely worth the investment.
Guided Tours for a Deeper Experience
While the museum itself doesn’t allow external guided tours inside, there are official programs and partner tours that give you a much richer understanding of Anne Frank’s story. With a guide, you can explore the Jewish Quarter, Westerkerk Church, and Jordaan district before heading into the museum. These tours provide context about Amsterdam during WWII and give meaning to the places connected with Anne Frank’s life. Many visitors find guided tours to be the most rewarding way to experience the museum because they combine storytelling, history, and reflection.
Best Time to Visit the Anne Frank House
Timing is everything when it comes to visiting the Anne Frank Museum. Since tickets sell out quickly and the museum can get crowded, knowing the best times to go can greatly improve your visit.
Morning vs Evening Visits
Early morning slots (right after opening) are ideal if you want a calmer experience with fewer visitors. Evening slots, typically after 6 PM, are also less crowded and allow for a quieter, more reflective visit. Many travelers say the evening visit feels more emotional because of the calm atmosphere.
Peak Season vs Off-Season
Amsterdam welcomes millions of tourists each year, and summer (April–September) is peak season. During this time, tickets sell out weeks in advance. If you’re flexible, visiting during the off-season (October–March) gives you a more relaxed experience. Winter visits are less crowded, and the museum feels more intimate.
Pro Tip: Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, since these are the busiest times for both locals and tourists.
How to Get to the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam
Located at Prinsengracht 263–267, the Anne Frank House is right in the heart of Amsterdam. Getting there is easy thanks to the city’s excellent public transport and walkable layout.
By Public Transport
From Amsterdam Central Station, you can take tram 13 or 17 and get off at the “Westermarkt” stop. From there, it’s only a 2-minute walk to the museum entrance. Buses also run frequently to the area.
Walking and Cycling Routes
Amsterdam is famously bike-friendly, and cycling to the museum is one of the most popular options for locals and tourists. If you’re staying nearby, walking through the scenic Jordaan neighborhood to reach the museum is a great experience in itself.
Parking Information
If you’re driving, be aware that parking in central Amsterdam is limited and expensive. The nearest parking garages are at Westermarkt and Marnixstraat. However, most visitors prefer to use public transport or cycling to avoid traffic and parking hassle.
Visiting Tips for a Smooth Experience
To make your trip to the Anne Frank Museum as meaningful and hassle-free as possible, keep these practical tips in mind:
Photography Rules
Photography is not allowed inside the museum. This policy helps preserve the solemn atmosphere and prevents crowding in narrow spaces. If you want to take photos, do so outside the building or along the beautiful Prinsengracht canal.
Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities
Unfortunately, because the secret annex can only be reached via steep and narrow stairs, it’s not accessible for wheelchair users. However, the modern parts of the museum do have accessibility features, and staff are always ready to assist.
Facilities Inside the Museum
The museum includes a bookshop, where you can buy copies of The Diary of Anne Frank in multiple languages, along with educational materials. There’s also a café nearby where you can reflect after your visit. Note that there are no large storage lockers—so avoid bringing bulky luggage with you.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
Since the Anne Frank House is centrally located, you can easily combine your visit with other attractions in Amsterdam.
Jordaan District
Right around the museum lies the Jordaan neighborhood, one of the most charming areas of Amsterdam. With its narrow streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, it’s the perfect place to wander after your museum visit.
Westerkerk Church
Next door to the Anne Frank House stands the Westerkerk Church, one of the tallest churches in Amsterdam. Anne even mentioned the church bells in her diary. You can climb the tower for stunning views of the city.
Amsterdam Canals
The museum is located along the UNESCO World Heritage canals, so taking a canal cruise after your visit is a wonderful way to experience Amsterdam’s beauty. Many boat tours depart nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anne Frank House Tickets
Visitors often have the same doubts before booking their Anne Frank Museum tickets. Here are the most common questions answered clearly:
Can I buy tickets at the entrance?
No. Tickets for the Anne Frank House are only sold online through the official website. You must book in advance, as tickets are not available at the door.
Are tickets refundable?
Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable. Once you book a time slot, you cannot cancel or change it. Make sure to choose your date and time carefully before confirming your booking.
Is the museum suitable for kids?
The Anne Frank House can be an intense experience. While children are welcome, the museum recommends it for ages 10 and above, as the themes can be difficult for very young visitors. For older children and teenagers, however, it is a deeply educational experience.
Alternative Anne Frank Experiences in Amsterdam
If tickets are sold out—or if you want to expand your understanding of Anne Frank’s life—Amsterdam offers other powerful experiences connected to her story.
Anne Frank Walking Tours
Guided walking tours take you through the streets of Amsterdam where Anne lived before going into hiding. You’ll visit her school, her father’s business, and other significant landmarks. These tours provide a broader look at Jewish life in Amsterdam during World War II.
Jewish Cultural Quarter
The Jewish Cultural Quarter includes the Jewish Historical Museum, the Portuguese Synagogue, and the Holocaust Memorial. Together with the Anne Frank House, these sites paint a fuller picture of Jewish history in the Netherlands.
Insider Tips for Tourists
To make the most of your Anne Frank Museum visit, keep these insider travel tips in mind:
How to Avoid Crowds
- Book the first or last entry slot of the day.
- Visit during the off-season (October–March).
- Avoid weekends and Dutch public holidays.
Where to Eat Nearby
After an emotional visit, you may want to relax with a good meal. The Jordaan area is full of cozy cafés and restaurants. Some great nearby options include:
- Café Winkel 43 – famous for its Dutch apple pie.
- Pancakes Amsterdam – for traditional Dutch pancakes.
- La Perla – for authentic Italian pizza in the Jordaan.
Conclusion
The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is far more than a museum—it’s a place of remembrance, education, and reflection. By booking your tickets in advance, you ensure not only a smooth visit but also the opportunity to connect with one of history’s most powerful stories. From the preserved secret annex to Anne’s original diary pages, every detail reminds us of the importance of freedom, tolerance, and compassion. Whether you visit alone, with friends, or as a family, this experience will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
Don’t forget to plan ahead: secure your tickets online, choose the right time slot, and explore nearby attractions to make your trip even more memorable. Amsterdam is full of wonders, but few are as deeply moving as the Anne Frank House.
Ready to Visit Anne Frank House?
Anne Frank House
Plan your visit to the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam by booking your tickets online through the official website. Tickets are limited and only sold online
Note: We are an independent travel guide. Tickets are purchased via official partners – we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
FAQs
- How far in advance should I book Anne Frank House tickets?
Tickets go on sale two months ahead and sell out fast—book as early as possible. - Can I visit the museum without a guided tour?
Yes, the standard ticket includes self-guided entry. However, guided walking tours provide extra context. - Is the Anne Frank House included in Amsterdam city passes?
No, city passes like the I Amsterdam Card do not cover entry to the Anne Frank House. Tickets must be purchased separately. - How long does a visit take?
On average, visitors spend 60–90 minutes inside the museum. - What language is the museum information in?
Exhibits and displays are available in English, Dutch, and several other languages to help international visitors.
