Museum of Bags and Purses (Tassenmuseum)

Herengracht 573, 1017 CD Amsterdam, Netherlands

This collection of 5,000-plus bags, purses, and accessories—the largest in the world—spans more than 500 years, from a practical 16th-century goatskin money pouch to a whimsical shoe-shaped purse by contemporary Dutch footwear designer Jan Jansen. Displayed beautifully throughout a grand 17th-century canal house and arranged by time period, the collection includes rare French silk bridal bags from the 1800s, delicate art deco beaded purses, chic 1970s Lucite clutches, and contemporary handbags by luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Mulberry, Gucci, and Prada. Items owned by the rich and famous are here as well: a Versace evening bag Madonna carried at the Evita premiere; the cat-shaped “Socks” clutch that Judith Leiber designed for Hillary Clinton; and Margaret Thatcher’s iconic gray Asprey handbag, which she referred to as her “weapon.” Don’t miss the café’s renowned afternoon tea, with sweet and savory bites served in the museum’s period rooms.

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A unique experience !!!! Don't miss it !!!"

“From the moment I went in I did not want to leave! And if you love purses like I do, you can make a day trip in the museum. There is a complete history of bags and purses, and some luggage, starting in the XVI century until now, different shapes and materials ( tortoiseshells, silver mesh, lucite, metal...) The house is a very beautiful XVII century canal house with painted ceilings, and used to be the residence of an Amsterdam Mayor. You can have lunch or tea in the lovely café overlooking a garden! They also have a nice store... A unique experience for everyone !!!! Don’t miss it !!!”

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