Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

Historic Site, Memorial and Museum in Arnhem

Warmuseum Arnhem
Warmuseum Arnhem
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Ciell

Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45 is a compact-but-dense World War II museum on the edge of Arnhem, known for its sheer volume of original objects and its strong focus on what happened in and around the city during the war. It's the kind of place where you can go from small personal items to full-scale vehicles in minutes, making it feel bigger than it looks from the outside.

If you're exploring Arnhem's WWII story on a walking tour of the city center, this museum works best as a dedicated side trip before or after your walk, especially if you want deeper context beyond the headline locations. Pair it with the best-known Market Garden viewpoints in town, then come here to connect the dots through artifacts, stories, and the human scale of the conflict.

History and Significance of the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

Arnhem sits at the heart of one of the most discussed WWII episodes in the Netherlands: Operation Market Garden and the Battle of Arnhem. While the city has several places that mark the events, Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45 stands out for how it translates big history into tangible evidence—objects you can actually see up close.

The museum’s significance is less about flashy presentation and more about the weight of authenticity. Visitors often describe it as factual and packed with material, which makes it especially valuable if you’re trying to understand what the fighting meant for soldiers and civilians in the region.

Because the collection is so broad, it also helps you place Arnhem’s story in the wider European war—how equipment, uniforms, and everyday items fit into the larger timeline, and why the Netherlands’ wartime experience had its own distinct character.

Things to See and Do in the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

The main draw is the collection itself: an extensive spread of WWII artifacts that ranges from small items like medals and ammunition to large-scale displays such as vehicles and aircraft. The variety keeps the visit moving quickly, and it’s easy to find something that matches your interests—military history, civilian life, or the local Dutch angle.

Take your time with the interpretive labels and translations where available, and don't hesitate to ask staff questions if the museum is quiet. Many visitors highlight how much the experience improves with a knowledgeable guide or staff member who can add context, especially around Arnhem and Operation Market Garden.

If you’re building a WWII-themed day, use the museum as your “deep dive” stop: do your outdoor walking first (bridge viewpoints, memorials, and city landmarks), then come here to slow down and absorb the details that are hard to grasp from plaques alone.

How to Get to the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

The nearest major airports are Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Eindhoven Airport, with Düsseldorf Airport also a practical option depending on your route. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Arnhem on Booking.com.

Arnhem is easy to reach by train from major Dutch cities, and once you arrive at Arnhem Centraal you can continue by local bus or taxi toward the museum area. Train tickets and schedules are available directly through NS Dutch Railways and NS International for international services. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

If you’re driving, the museum is straightforward to reach and is well-suited to a car-based itinerary that also includes nearby WWII sites outside the city center.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

  • Official website: https://www.arnhemsoorlogsmuseum.com/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €12; 65+: €10; Children (6–11): €10; Under 6: free.
  • Opening hours: Monday: Closed. Tuesday: Closed. Wednesday: 10:00–17:00. Thursday: 10:00–17:00. Friday: 10:00–17:00. Saturday: 10:00–17:00. Sunday: 10:00–17:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day for a calmer, more focused look at the displays, especially if you like reading labels and taking your time. Rainy days are a good fit because the museum is an indoor, content-heavy visit.
  • How long to spend: Plan for about 90 minutes to 2 hours for a satisfying visit, longer if you’re a WWII specialist who wants to examine details.
  • Accessibility: The museum is generally accessible for visitors using a wheelchair or rollator, and there is a stair lift for the upper floor. Mobility scooters may not be practical due to limited space.
  • Facilities: Expect a straightforward, no-frills setup focused on the collection; travel light since larger bags may need to be left at the front.

Where to Stay Close to the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

Best area to base yourself: Arnhem city center near Arnhem Centraal for the easiest mix of trains, restaurants, and quick access to WWII sights.

Holiday Inn Express Arnhem A reliable, practical base near the station—great if you’re doing day trips by train and want an easy, predictable stay.

Hotel Haarhuis A classic central option right by Arnhem Centraal, ideal for travelers who want maximum convenience and a more full-service hotel feel.

NH Arnhem Rijnhotel Chosen for its riverside setting and quieter vibe while still being close to the center—nice after a full day of museums and walking.

Boutique Hotel The Church A characterful boutique stay that adds atmosphere to your trip, especially if you want something memorable rather than generic.

Stayokay Arnhem A budget-friendly option near green space, good for hikers, cyclists, and travelers who prefer a social, outdoorsy base.

Is the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45 Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if Arnhem is on your itinerary for WWII history. The museum consistently delivers what many travelers want most: a huge amount of original material, strong local relevance, and a visit that feels more substantial than its modest exterior suggests.

Honest Pivot: If you prefer highly polished, modern, multimedia museum design—or you’re only casually interested in WWII—you may find it overwhelming or more “collection-first” than narrative-driven. In that case, you might be happier focusing on a shorter city-center WWII walk and one smaller interpretive stop instead.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (1,224)

Google reviewers rate it highly overall (4.4/5 from a large number of visitors) and frequently say the museum feels much bigger than it looks thanks to an extensive WWII collection. Common highlights include the sheer range of original artifacts (from small items to large vehicles/aircraft), strong Arnhem/Operation Market Garden relevance, and helpful, knowledgeable staff or guides when available. The most common drawbacks are that the space can feel tight or quick to walk through, and English translations are present on many displays but not consistently everywhere.

Bert van Dyk
6 months ago
"Fabulous! Far bigger than it looksnNot fancy but factual, we had a young, very knowledgeable guide walking with us and explaining everything as hehad the time on a very rainy daynThanks Tom!..."
William Hill
6 months ago
"An extraordinary collection of WW2 artefacts that at times is overwhelming but still fascinating. It ranges from a bullet to a plane and everythingin between. Some nice stuff from The Netherlands that is non military..."
Daniel McGwi
a year ago
"Loads of different items to look at ranging from medals through to a plane and a tank with everything in between. It takes around 90 mins to 2 hoursto have a look around I would say. There are generally English translations on most displays but not everywhere. It was €48 for two adults and three children when I visited. There's also a gift shop and cafe at the end, and also a military souvenir shop separately. Decent size free car park available...."

For Different Travelers

This museum can fit many travel styles, but it’s best for people who enjoy artifact-rich collections and want to understand Arnhem’s WWII story in detail. Plan your visit based on how much context you want and how you like to experience history.

Families with Kids

Kids who like big objects—vehicles, planes, and “real stuff”—often stay engaged longer than you’d expect in a history museum. Keep the pace brisk and let them choose a few favorite sections to focus on.

For younger children, consider turning it into a scavenger-hunt style visit (find a uniform, a vehicle, a map, a household object) rather than trying to read everything. It keeps the experience positive without overloading them.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

This isn’t a romantic attraction in the classic sense, but it can be a meaningful shared experience if you both enjoy history and conversation. It’s especially good as a rainy-day plan when you want something substantial to do together.

Balance it with something lighter afterward—coffee in the center, a riverside walk, or a relaxed dinner—so the day doesn’t feel too heavy.

Budget Travelers

The museum is a strong value if you like dense, self-guided visits where you can spend 1–2 hours without needing add-ons. You can keep costs down by staying near Arnhem Centraal and using public transport for most of your trip.

If you’re doing multiple WWII stops, prioritize the ones that give you different experiences (outdoor memorials and viewpoints plus one artifact-heavy museum) to avoid paying repeatedly for similar content.

History Buffs

If you're into Operation Market Garden and the Battle of Arnhem, this is one of the most satisfying stops in the area because the collection is extensive and highly specific. It's also a good place to refine your understanding of timelines, units, and equipment.

Go in with a theme—airborne operations, civilian life, or Dutch wartime experience—so you don’t get “museum fatigue” from trying to absorb everything at once.

FAQs for Visiting Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

Getting There

Yes, it’s manageable from the main station by local transport or taxi. If you’re planning multiple WWII stops, consider grouping them to reduce back-and-forth travel.
No, but a car can make it easier if you’re combining the museum with sites outside the city center. Public transport works well if you’re staying centrally.
Yes—do your city-center WWII walk first, then use the museum as the deeper context stop. That order helps the artifacts “click” with what you saw outside.

Tickets & Entry

Typically, no reservation is required. If you’re visiting during peak holiday periods, it’s still smart to double-check before you go.
Yes, group discounts may apply for larger parties. If you’re traveling with a club or tour group, contact the museum ahead of time.
No, plan to buy standard admission rather than relying on the Museumkaart. Bring a payment method that works for on-site ticket purchase.

Visiting Experience

It can feel dense because there’s a lot to take in. Focus on the sections tied to Arnhem and you’ll still get a strong experience.
Many displays have English translations, but not all. If you don’t read Dutch, allow extra time and ask staff for help with key points.
It can be either, depending on your pace. Most travelers find it rewarding with a focused 90-minute visit.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, if available—extra context can transform the experience from “lots of objects” into a coherent story. It’s especially helpful for Market Garden-focused travelers.
Start with a city-center WWII walk and key viewpoints, then finish at the museum for artifacts and deeper detail. End with a relaxed meal to decompress.
Yes, but it helps to read a short overview of Operation Market Garden beforehand. Even a basic timeline makes the exhibits more meaningful.

Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but avoid using flash. Be mindful of other visitors in tighter spaces.
Large backpacks may not be allowed in the galleries. Plan to store them at the front if needed.
It’s best for detailed close-ups and “collection” visuals rather than wide, cinematic galleries. If you’re filming, keep it discreet and respectful.

Accessibility & Facilities

Accessibility is generally good for wheelchairs and rollators, including access to the upper floor via a stair lift. Space can be tight, so quieter times help.
Mobility scooters may not be practical due to limited space. If you need assistance, ask about alternatives such as a loan wheelchair.
Expect a simple setup rather than lots of seating throughout. If you need frequent breaks, plan them intentionally as you move through the museum.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Many visitors treat this as a focused 1–2 hour visit and then break afterward. If you need a pause, ask staff about the best spot to step aside.
Arnhem city center has the widest choice and is easiest to combine with your day’s route. It’s a good way to shift gears after a heavy topic.
If the weather is good, nearby green areas can work well for a simple picnic. Just plan to keep food and drinks outside the exhibit spaces.

Safety & Timing

Yes—this is one of the best rainy-day activities in Arnhem because it’s fully indoors and easy to spend real time in. It also pairs well with a short indoor café stop afterward.
Arriving near opening time usually gives you the calmest experience. Late afternoons can feel rushed if you like reading and detail.
It can be, especially with personal artifacts and wartime context. If you’re traveling with kids or sensitive travelers, set expectations and keep the visit shorter.

Nearby Attractions to the Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

  • Airborne Museum at Hartenstein (Oosterbeek): A major regional museum focused on the Battle of Arnhem with strong storytelling and context.
  • John Frost Bridge: The iconic bridge linked to Operation Market Garden, best experienced as part of a WWII walking route.
  • Airborne at the Bridge: A compact city-center stop that adds quick context right near the bridge area.
  • Eusebius Church: A landmark church in central Arnhem with city views and a strong sense of place.
  • Nederlands Openluchtmuseum: A large open-air museum showcasing Dutch life and heritage, great for balancing a history-heavy itinerary.

The Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45 appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arnhem!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday: Closed.

Tuesday: Closed.

Wednesday: 10:00-17:00.

Thursday: 10:00-17:00.

Friday: 10:00-17:00.

Saturday: 10:00-17:00.

Sunday: 10:00-17:00.

Price:

Adults: €12; 65+: €10; Children (6-11): €10; Under 6: free.

Address: Kemperbergerweg 780, 6816 RX Arnhem, Netherlands
Arnhem: 5 km
Telephone: +31 26 442 0958
Official Website

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