Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases on this site. This post might also contain some additional affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may receive a commission from these links to help fund this blog.
The Dutch capital is a quirky city bursting with hidden gems, world-class art and delicious desserts. But as a self-proclaimed crazy cat lady, I always enjoy exploring any new destination by tracking down its resident four-legged friends – and Amsterdam certainly did not disappoint! Amsterdam has a surprisingly rich feline culture. From historic canal houses filled with fine art to floating sanctuaries right on the water, here is my first-hand guide to finding cats in Amsterdam, featuring two purrfect cat-tastic attractions I enjoyed visiting.
The Best Places to see Cats in Amsterdam
If you want to experience the absolute best of the feline scene, there are two attractions you need to add to your Amsterdam itinerary. Both are located right in the heart of the historic canal belt, making them incredibly easy to visit in a single afternoon.
Kattenkabinet – Amsterdam Cat Museum
Kattenkabinet (or Cat Cabinet) is a museum dedicated to all things cat. Tucked away in a 17th century canal house, it is a fairly small museum. But if you’re looking for something unusual to please your inner cat lady then this is it.
Even the history to the museum is quirky. Opened in 1990, it was founded by a wealthy Dutch man named Bob Meijer, in memory of his ginger cat John Pierpont Morgan (yes that was the cat’s name). Bob celebrated every fifth birthday of J.P. Morgan’s (the cat) by commissioning custom paintings, statues and even a mock dollar bill featuring the cat’s face.
The museum is full of all sorts of cat related art, including paintings, sculptures and other kinds of artefacts. This one-of-a-kind collection even includes work by the likes of Picasso! There is also a cat themed gift shop AND best of all – real cats! Yes you can spot real cats lounging around the museum too. We didn’t like to bother them too much, but of course I had to take a couple of pictures. Because that is what I seem to do whenever I see a cat.
We weren’t at the museum for very long (like I said, it is fairly small) but if you’re a fan of felines then you will probably enjoy this.
Planning your visit to Kattenkabinet
- Location: Herengracht 497, 1017 BT.
- Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 12.00pm to 5.00pm (closed Mondays).
- Booking: Due to the historic rooms being small, there are capacity limits. You can easily pre-book your timed entry tickets online via platforms like Get Your Guide to secure your spot.
- Don’t miss: The cat-themed gift shop, which is stocked with unique postcards, posters and feline related souvenirs.
De Poezenboot – Rescue cats in Amsterdam
De Poezenboot aka The Cat Boat is quite literally a floating cat sanctuary. It was founded in 1966 by a kind-hearted local woman named Henriette van Weelde after she found a homeless family of cats that needed caring for. After that first rescue, Henriette ended up rescuing so many more cats that she needed the space to home them all – and a house boat was the most creative and viable solution! By 1987, the shelter received official charity status and today it remains a fully functioning rescue on the water.
The Cat Boat of Amsterdam is world famous amongst feline fanatics. It is free to visit, however donations or purchases from the small onboard gift shop are much appreciated. Local people can adopt a cat but if you wish to support the sanctuary and aren’t local, there is a financial adoption option available.
We were only able to stay on the boat for 15 minutes. I could have stayed much longer to pet the cats, but being a cat shelter employee myself I understand why visits must be short and sweet. I would still recommend a visit if you need a cat fix!
Planning your visit to De Poezenboot
- Location: Singel 38 /G, 1015 AB. A short 10 minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
- Opening times: 1pm to 3pm Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
- Booking: The cat boat no longer accept advance online reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Because it is popular, a queue often forms along the canal before opening. Double-check the official Check De Poezenboot website for last-minute scheduling changes.
Check out my other Amsterdam guides
- An Alternative 3 Days in Amsterdam
- Tulips and Windmills: A Day Tour from Amsterdam
- Best Desserts in Amsterdam – My Top 3 Recommendations
- Quirky things to do in Amsterdam