Louwman Museum receives two Michelin stars: a tribute to mobility, art and heritage

On April 17, 2025, the Louwman Museum in The Hague received two Michelin stars, a rare and prestigious recognition usually reserved for top culinary addresses. Since 2024, Michelin has also awarded stars to tourist attractions: one star means 'worth a visit', two stars 'worth a detour' and three stars 'worth the trip'. With this award, Michelin confirms the international allure of the Louwman Museum as a cultural destination of exceptional class.

A collection that defies time

The Louwman Museum houses the world’s oldest private collection of automobiles, with over 275 vehicles illustrating the evolution of mobility since 1887. The collection includes iconic models such as the Benz Patentwagen (1886), the extravagant Swan Car (1910), the revolutionary Spyker 60HP (1903) and the Bugatti Type 18 ‘Black Bess’ (1913), once owned by French aviation pioneer Roland Garros. It also features cars owned by celebrities such as Winston Churchill, Elvis Presley and James Bond.

More than just cars: art in motion

The museum is not only distinguished by its vehicles, but also by the world's largest collection of automotive art. Visitors can enjoy posters, paintings, sculptures and memorabilia that highlight the aesthetics and culture of the automobile. A special showpiece is the original Michelin poster from 1898, in which the famous Michelin man, Bibendum, was first depicted by artist O'Galop. This poster is unique because of its green background and red lettering, colors that were later replaced by the familiar blue and yellow of Michelin.

Architectural masterpiece

The museum building itself is an architectural masterpiece, designed by American architect Michael Graves. With three floors and more than 10.000 m² of exhibition space, it offers an impressive setting for the collection. The surrounding park, designed by landscape architect Louis Baljon, enhances the experience and connects the museum with its natural surroundings.

International recognition and public appreciation

The award of two Michelin stars places the Louwman Museum in the company of the world's most esteemed cultural institutions. Visitors praise the museum for its extensive and well-curated exhibitions, which offer a fascinating journey through the history of mobility. The collection is praised for its diversity and the exceptional condition of the vehicles.

Worth a visit

The Louwman Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00. Admission prices range from €10 for children to €19 for adults. The museum is easily accessible by public transport and has its own parking lot.

With the award of two Michelin stars, the Louwman Museum confirms its status as a cultural gem in the Netherlands. It offers a unique combination of historic vehicles, art and architecture, making it a destination that every lover of history, design and mobility should not miss. More information via www.louwmanmuseum.nl