The Rijksmuseum is one of the highlights of any trip to Amsterdam. Located on Museumplein, this impressive museum takes you on a journey through more than 800 years of Dutch art and history, from the Middle Ages to modern masterpieces.
During your visit, you’ll encounter iconic works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh. The museum’s clear layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, while guided tours offer deeper insight into the stories behind the artworks.
The undisputed highlight is The Night Watch by Rembrandt, which occupies pride of place in the museum. This masterpiece attracts visitors from around the world every day. A unique feature is that you may even be able to watch conservation work taking place live, adding an extra dimension to your visit.
You can easily combine your visit with other nearby attractions, including the Van Gogh Museum. If you're staying longer, take a look at our guide to spending two days in Amsterdam for more inspiration.
Top 10 works to see at the Rijksmuseum
The Night Watch – Rembrandt
The Milkmaid – Vermeer
Self-Portrait – Vincent van Gogh
The Little Street – Vermeer
The Threatened Swan – Jan Asselijn
Portraits from the Dutch Golden Age
The Delftware collection
Isaac and Rebecca (known as The Jewish Bride) – Rembrandt
Maritime art collection
Asian art collection
What is the Gallery of Honour?
The Gallery of Honour is the heart of the Rijksmuseum and one of the most impressive museum spaces in the Netherlands. Here, you'll walk past some of the greatest masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age, culminating in The Night Watch. Along the way, you'll see celebrated works by artists including Vermeer and Frans Hals, displayed in a grand and elegant setting.
Tips before you visit the Rijksmuseum
You must reserve an entry time in advance unless you have booked a guided tour.
Admission is free for visitors under 18.
The museum is fully accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
Photography is permitted (without flash or tripods).
Animals are not allowed, except for assistance dogs.
There is a café and a Michelin-starred restaurant on site.
The museum is cashless; payments can only be made by card in the cafés, restaurant and gift shop.
A free cloakroom is available for coats, umbrellas and small bags.
Rijksmuseum opening hours
The Rijksmuseum is open every day of the year from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, including public holidays.
The museum gardens are open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
How do I get to the Rijksmuseum?
By tram: Tram lines 2 and 12 from Amsterdam Central Station stop at the Rijksmuseum.
By bus: Bus 397 stops at Museumplein.
By metro: North/South Line (52), alight at Vijzelgracht or De Pijp.
By car: The Q-Park Byzantium car park is located directly opposite the Rijksmuseum.
On foot: The museum is centrally located on Museumplein and is within walking distance of Leidseplein and Amsterdam's city centre.
