Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA)

My neighbor Daan once told me about this place called the Street Art Museum, or SAMA, and I’ll be honest — I wasn’t into it. I mean, street art? In a former shipyard? Sounds like something you’d see in a movie, not real life. But then I went, and I stood in front of this three-story mural in a massive industrial hall, and I didn’t say a word for a full minute. That’s how powerful it was. SAMA is on the NDSM-werf in Amsterdam Noord, and to get there, you take the free ferry from behind Centraal Station — not the one going to Buiksloterweg, that’s a different route. The ride takes about 15 minutes and gives you a nice view of the city from the water. The museum itself is housed in these giant shipbuilding halls that were once used to construct ships. The raw architecture is part of the art, and it makes the experience feel less like a museum and more like a gallery with a story to tell. The place is full of over 150 works by more than 130 international artists, and one of the standout pieces is Eduardo Kobra’s 'Let Me Be Myself' mural. It’s huge, and it hits different when you’re standing right in front of it. The museum opened in 2021 and is dedicated to street art and graffiti, but it’s also an eco-museum focused on community and social impact. That’s what makes it a little different from the usual art museums you might visit. Guided tours are excellent — they explain not just the art, but the context, the artists, and the message behind it. My friend Sara went with me last month, and she said the tour gave her a whole new appreciation for street art. It’s a bit cold in winter, so bring a jacket. I know it sounds obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re absorbed in the art. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, and it’s not too crowded on weekdays — I’d recommend going Thursday or Friday morning if you want to avoid the rush. If you’re into Instagram, you’ll want to check out the outdoor installations too, especially the ones that play with the industrial setting. The NDSM area around SAMA is a whole vibe on its own. There are restaurants in shipping containers, cool bars, and even a vintage market. It’s a creative hub, and the vibe is definitely alternative. There’s also a café and gift shop inside the museum, which is handy if you want to grab a coffee or pick up a sticker. Tickets are €21.50 for adults, and it’s a bit steep for what you get — but if you’re into art, it’s worth it. It’s fully wheelchair accessible, so that’s a plus. One thing to note: the museum is free on the first Friday of each month, which is a nice surprise for budget-conscious travelers. I’ve been there twice, and each time I walked away feeling like I saw something that really mattered. If you’re in Amsterdam and want to see a museum that’s not like the others, this is it. And if you’re wondering, the ferry is free, so check if that deal’s still on before you go. It’s a real experience, and it’s worth the trip.