The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the most iconic and visited museums in the world. It is located in the city center of Amsterdam and is home to the world’s largest collection of Dutch art and history.
Here you can see master pieces of Rembrandt van Rijn, Vincent van Gogh, Vermeer and more! The building of the Rijksmuseum is a must-see and the Rijksmuseum can be considered as one of the most beloved tourist attractions in Amsterdam.
Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam
Rijksmuseum In Short:
- Age: All ages
- Time needed to visit Rijksmuseum: 2-3 hours
- Where in Amsterdam: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Discount possible?: Yes, student and free entrence for kids till 18 years old
- Can you use the iamsterdam pass for the Rijksmuseum?: Yes, you get free access with the I amsterdam city pass
- Neighborhood: Museum Quarter
- Close to: Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, Moco Museum, House of Bols, Diamond Museum
- Architect of the building: Pierre Cuypers (1827-1921)
What is the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the most famous and popular museums in the Netherlands. It is home to a vast collection of Dutch and European art, as well as artifacts from the Dutch Golden Age. The museum was founded in 1808 and is housed in a stunning neo-gothic building that was designed by Pierre Cuypers.
Who designed the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum building is a classic example of Dutch architecture. It was designed in the 19th century by Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers and was finished in 1885. The museum showcases a beautiful and elaborate exterior design, as well as a grand red-carpeted entrance hall.
What can you see at the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum is most famous for its collection of Dutch Golden Age art. This includes works by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer.
The museum also has a large collection of European art, including works by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Jan Steen, and Jan van Eyck. In addition to its art collections, the museum also houses archaeological artifacts, prints, photographs, and historical objects.
The Rijksmuseum’s collection is made up of more than of 1.1 million objects, of which 700,000 are drawings and prints and 400,000 other objects. Only 8,000 pieces are on display for visitors to the museum.
These include masterpieces by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals, as well as sculptures and other artwork from the Middle Ages through the 19th century.
The museum also houses a library and a conservation department, which are responsible for the preservation and restoration of the works of art.
Make sure you visit the must-see ”Rijksmuseum Masterpieces” The Gallery of Honour section!
The museum is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a particular period or area of Dutch art and history. One of the most popular sections is the ‘Rijksmuseum Masterpieces’, which features some of the most famous works of art from the Rijksmuseum collection. These include Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’ (De Nachtwacht, 1642), Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ (Meisje met de Parel, 1665) and Frans Hals’ ‘The Laughing Cavalier’ (De Lachende Cavalier, 1624).
For Maritime history lovers: wander through the Philips Wing
The museum is also home to the Philips Wing, which is devoted to the history of the Dutch East India Company. This wing houses artifacts from Dutch colonial history, including maps, coins, and paintings. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, which range from the works of contemporary artists to historical photographs.
Is Rijksmuseum worth visiting?
Definitely! The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the most famous museums in Europe, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting the Netherlands.
Located in the museum quarter of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum is home to some of the world’s most famous paintings, including Rembrandt’s iconic “The Night Watch”.
The museum has an extensive collection of Dutch art and history, with over 8,000 works of art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The Rijksmuseum is an excellent place to spend a few hours. The museum is divided into several galleries, each with its own focus. The Gallery of Old Masters, for example, contains artwork from the 15th to the 18th centuries, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
The Gallery of Dutch Masters focuses on Dutch painting from the 17th century, while the Gallery of Contemporary Art highlights art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
In addition, the museum features special exhibitions, such as the “Vermeer” exhibition.
Who should visit the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum is a must-visit for anyone visiting Amsterdam for the first time, not only for art-lovers!
With its vast collection of Dutch art and its stunning paintings, the Rijksmuseum is a very unique museum. Whether you’re looking to explore the art of the Dutch Masters or to simply relax in the museum with some nice artworks in the background, the Rijksmuseum is sure to make your visit to Amsterdam an unforgettable one.
It is also a perfect activity to do in Amsterdam when it is raining or stormy in the city.
What is special about the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum is a special museum as it is home to some of the world’s most famous works of art, including Rembrandt’s masterpiece “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s iconic “Girl with a Pearl Earring”.
The Rijksmuseum collection also includes works from other notable Dutch artists like Jan Steen, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer, among others.
The museum also features an impressive selection of decorative arts, porcelain, and historical artifacts from the Netherlands and beyond.
How long do you need at Rijksmuseum Amsterdam?
How long you need to visit the Rjiksmusem really depends on how many artworks you would like to see. You will need at least a couple of hours if you want to walk through all the sections and wings!
If you only want to see the most popular artworks, you will need around 1 -1.5 hour as in between you may also want to read the art descriptions and take some pictures of the artworks.
Don’t forget that you usually also have to queue to get into the building! Purchasing a ticket beforehand is therefore really recommended!
5 Reasons why you should Visit Rijksmuseum during your Trip in Amsterdam:
The Rijksmuseum is a must-see when visiting Amsterdam. It is a beautiful museum that offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Netherlands.
Whether you’re a fan of Dutch masters or just want to enjoy some of the world’s greatest works of art, the Rijksmuseum is an unforgettable experience.
Here below are 5 good reasons listed why you should visit the Rijksmuseum:
1. Masterpieces of Dutch Golden Age: Rijksmuseum houses some of the most famous and iconic works of art from the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s Night Watch. It is a great chance to admire the masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age.
2. Wide Range of Art: Rijksmuseum offers visitors a wide range of art, ranging from paintings to sculptures, drawings, prints and photos. There is something for everyone in this museum.
3. Historical Significance: Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands, and it has a long and rich history. Visitors can experience the history of the Dutch people and culture through art.
4. Interesting Exhibits: The museum offers a variety of interesting and interactive exhibits. In the past there was an exhibiton called “the Life of Rembrandt”, which takes visitors through the life of the famous painter. Throughout the year, there are many fascinating exhibits you should not miss.
5. Relaxing Atmosphere: Rijksmuseum is a great place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. Visitors can take a break and enjoy the art and beauty of the museum.
When is the Rijksmuseum open?
The Rijksmuseum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm and is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in Dutch history or art.
The museum has a cafe and a shop, and visitors can take a guided (audio) tour.
What should I not miss in the Rijksmuseum?
One of the must-see pieces in the Rijksmuseum is Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch”.
This painting is one of the museum’s most famous works and features a group of Dutch militia men in a nighttime setting.
Other famous must-see artworks are: Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ (Meisje met de Parel, 1665), The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer, The Threatened Swan by Jan Asselijn, The Van Gogh self-portrait and Girl in a Blue Dress by Johannes Cornelisz Verspronck.
Should I go to the Van Gogh Museum or Rijksmuseum?
If you’re looking for an exciting and educational experience in Amsterdam, you can’t go wrong with either the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum.
Both of these iconic institutions offer a wealth of knowledge and artistic inspiration, but they are two very different experiences.
The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for any fan of the iconic artist. It is home to the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works in the world, including his famous “Starry Night” painting.
You’ll also find works from his contemporaries, such as Émile Bernard. In addition to the artwork, the museum also has an extensive library, offering an in-depth look into the life and work of Van Gogh.
The Rijksmuseum, on the other hand, is an impressive collection of Dutch art from the past seven centuries. From the Middle Ages, Dutch Golden Age to the modern era, it features artworks and artifacts from all over the Netherlands.
Notable pieces include the iconic “Night Watch” painting by Rembrandt, and a number of works by Dutch masters such as Jan Steen and Frans Hals.
The museum also has an impressive array of paintings, sculptures, and objects from other periods and countries. There is also a selfportret of Vincent van Gogh in the Rijksmuseum.
The Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum both offer something for everyone. Each museum has its own unique atmosphere and highlights, so it’s worth visiting both if you have the time. Whichever you choose, you’re sure will enjoy your visit.
Buy Rijksmuseum tickets with Free Cancellation
With millions of people visiting Amsterdam every year, Amsterdam is a very popular travel destination. This means that tickets for popular tourist attractions are quickly sold out and that it is busy at the ticket counter.
Also, the queue for people who does not have a ticket is usually really long. It is therefore 100% recommended to purchase your Rijksmuseum tickets in advance, then you know that you can visit this place for sure when you are in Amsterdam.
🛎️ If you buy your Rijksmuseum tickets online, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can even get into the building quicker. This will save you lots of precious time in Amsterdam. With a ticket in your inbox, you have nothing to worry about.
Where is the Rijksmuseum located on the map?
Rijksmuseum is located in the Museum Quarter! Close to the Vondelpark and Leidseplein.
(Image) Source: Rijksmuseum, press release