Visiting the Rijksmuseum: Your Amsterdam Guide

If you only visit one museum in Amsterdam, make it the Rijksmuseum. It's the national museum of the Netherlands, and it holds some of the most famous paintings in the world.

Why the Rijksmuseum is worth it

The star of the show is Rembrandt's The Night Watch, a huge, dramatic painting that fills an entire wall of the Gallery of Honour. Nearby you'll find Vermeer's The Milkmaid, delicate Delft blue pottery, model ships and even a real dollhouse from the 1600s.

Even the building is a highlight. The red-brick palace with its towers sits right on Museumplein, and you can walk or bike straight through the passage underneath it.

Book your ticket ahead

Timed entry slots sell out, especially on weekends and in summer. The easiest way to skip the stress is to book your Rijksmuseum ticket online here before you go. You'll pick your date and time, show the ticket on your phone and walk right in.

Tips for your visit

- Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon for smaller crowds around The Night Watch. - Plan two to three hours. Head to the second floor first for the Golden Age masterpieces. - Don't skip the gardens around the building. They're free and lovely in spring. - Pair it with the Van Gogh Museum and a stroll through Vondelpark, all a few minutes away.

Ready to go?

The Rijksmuseum is one of those places that stays with you long after your trip. Grab your Rijksmuseum ticket now and lock in your spot.