If you want to learn more about the history of art in Europe and the Netherlands, there is no better place to do it than at Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum. It is a must-see attraction for any art lover and a great addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.
However, navigating this massive museum can be a challenging task, especially if you don’t have time to plan ahead. Here are our tips to ensure your visit is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
1. Skip the Line
During peak times, the Rijksmuseum can have long lines to enter, and these lines can extend into the hallways. That’s why it’s so important to purchase your tickets online ahead of time and avoid waiting in line at the ticket counter.
Another way to save time is to book a guided tour of the museum. These tours can be a great way to see some of the most famous art works in the world without having to wait in long lines.
You can also book a multimedia guide that includes videos and images of many of the artworks in the museum. You can even download it onto your smartphone to keep it handy for reference while you’re visiting.
2. Book a Guided Tour
A guided tour is a great way to save time and avoid queues when visiting Rijksmuseum. These tours are led by expert guides who will explain the different masterpieces at the museum to you in detail.
It also helps you to understand Dutch art better and explore the history of Holland. The guide will tell you about the history of the works on display and their meanings.
The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most visited art museum in the Netherlands, with 8000 exhibited artworks that date back to the 800-year history of Dutch art.
Some of the highlights at Rijksmuseum include Rembrandt’s masterpiece, De Nachtwacht, and The Merry Family by Jan Steen. Other paintings you should not miss are Van Gogh’s Self-portrait and the Battle of Waterloo by Jan Willem Pieneman.
3. Take a Break
When you’re tired or feeling overwhelmed, take a break to refresh your mind and body. The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s busiest attractions, so expect crowds.
If you’re visiting with kids, Fitski recommends setting expectations well in advance. This means talking to them about their behavior expectations and what they can and can’t do in the museum.
To make the most of your visit, Fitski recommends allowing at least two hours to see all of the museum’s exhibits. This allows you to explore the museum at your own pace and avoid getting stuck in a long line.
4. Don’t Forget the Library
The Rijksmuseum may be one of Amsterdam’s most renowned art museums, but it has a lot more to offer than just art. As well as a Michelin-starred restaurant and an amazing garden, it also features the magnificent Cuypers Library.
This library is the largest and oldest art history library in the Netherlands and is a must-see during your Rijksmuseum visit. It is home to a large collection of historical texts as well as paintings, and is open to the public.
The library is hidden away inconspicuously between the galleries and can be easily missed, but it is worth spotting! Follow the directions to Rembrandt’s Night Watch Gallery (Nachtwacht) and walk through the 2.15 William Rex Gallery to find a door at the end labeled ‘Bibliotheek’.
5. Plan Your Visit
Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum is home to over 800 years of Dutch art. Its collection includes masterpieces from artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Vermeer.
To make your visit more efficient, book your tickets online. You can skip the long lines at the ticket counter and enter directly when you arrive.
You’ll also find a lot of free parking in the museum’s garage. However, be sure to leave your bags in the checkroom before you get inside.
If you have limited time in Amsterdam, you’ll want to plan your visit well. During the summer and school holidays, the Museum is crowded and you’ll wait in lines for up to an hour before entering.
