Maximize your museum experience with these expert tips from frequent visitors and museum staff. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, these insights will help you get the most from Amsterdam's world-class museums.
Book Tickets in Advance - Always
This is THE most important tip. You cannot buy tickets at the door at Van Gogh Museum, and Rijksmuseum often sells out days in advance during peak season.
Why it matters:
- Guarantee entry on your preferred date and time
- Skip the ticket purchase queues entirely
- Better pricing than last-minute bookings
- Plan your entire day around museum visits
Booking timeline: 2-4 weeks ahead in summer, 1-2 weeks in other seasons, same-week bookings possible in winter.
Arrive 10-15 Minutes Before Your Time Slot
Your ticket shows a specific entry time. Arriving early ensures smooth entry and maximizes your museum time.
What happens if you're late:
- 15-30 minute grace period usually allowed
- Later than that, you may be refused entry
- Security lines can take 10-15 minutes during busy times
Pro tip: Use restrooms and store belongings in lockers before your time slot to enter immediately when your window opens.
Pack Light - Strict Bag Policies
Museums have strict size limits on bags for security and artwork protection.
Maximum bag size: 45cm x 35cm x 25cm (roughly the size of a small backpack)
What's not allowed:
- Large backpacks and hiking bags
- Suitcases and rolling luggage
- Large camera bags
Solution: Free lockers available for storing larger items. Bring coins (refundable) for locker operation. Hotel storage is best for suitcases.
Photography Rules - Know Before You Go
Photography is allowed in most areas, but with important restrictions.
DO:
- ✓ Take photos for personal use
- ✓ Use your smartphone or camera
- ✓ Be quick and considerate of others
DON'T:
- ✗ Use flash (damages artwork)
- ✗ Use tripods or selfie sticks
- ✗ Block other visitors
- ✗ Touch artworks while photographing
Special note: Some temporary exhibitions prohibit all photography. Watch for signs.
Use the Audio Guide - It's Worth It
Audio guides transform your visit from "seeing art" to "understanding art."
Why use an audio guide:
- Learn fascinating stories behind famous works
- Understand artistic techniques and symbolism
- Discover lesser-known masterpieces
- Navigate efficiently through large collections
Options:
- Museum app: Download before visiting (free at Van Gogh Museum)
- Device rental: Available at entrance (€5-6)
- Languages: 11+ languages usually available
Time-saving tip: Download apps on hotel WiFi before visiting to save mobile data.
Start at the Top (Van Gogh) or End (Rijksmuseum)
Museums are designed with specific viewing flows, but you can optimize your visit.
Van Gogh Museum strategy:
- Take elevator to top floor
- View chronologically from early works downward
- Finish at ground floor shop and exit
- Benefit: Follow Van Gogh's artistic journey naturally
Rijksmuseum strategy:
- Head straight to Gallery of Honour (2nd floor)
- See "The Night Watch" and major works first
- Explore other floors if time permits
- Benefit: Guaranteed to see highlights even if tired
Wear Comfortable Shoes - Seriously
This seems obvious, but it's frequently overlooked and can ruin your experience.
Why it matters:
- You'll walk 2-4km inside museums
- Standing while viewing art for 2-3 hours
- Hard marble and wooden floors
- Museums are large - lots of ground to cover
What to wear: Sneakers, walking shoes, or comfortable flats. Avoid new shoes, high heels, or thin-soled sandals.
Take Breaks - Use the Cafés
Museum fatigue is real. Don't try to power through without breaks.
When to take breaks:
- After 60-90 minutes of viewing
- When you notice you're rushing past artworks
- If you feel tired or overwhelmed
Where to break:
- Van Gogh Museum: Ground floor café, outdoor terrace (seasonal)
- Rijksmuseum: Multiple cafés, Asian Pavilion garden (summer)
Pro tip: 15-minute coffee break can refresh you for another hour of quality viewing. Better than seeing everything poorly.
Avoid Museum Fatigue - Don't Overbook
Trying to visit too many museums in one day guarantees a poor experience.
Recommended schedule:
- One major museum per day: Best quality experience
- Two museums maximum: If you must, space them 4+ hours apart with lunch break
- Three museums: Only do this if seeing highlights only at each (not recommended)
Reality check:
- Van Gogh Museum: 2-3 hours to appreciate properly
- Rijksmuseum: 2-4 hours for thorough visit
- By hour 4-5, your ability to appreciate art drops significantly
Check for Special Exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions often feature incredible works not in permanent collections.
How to check:
- Visit museum websites before your trip
- Check "What's On" sections
- Read about current exhibitions
- Book specifically timed tickets if required
Benefits:
- See rare works on loan from other museums
- Experience themed collections
- Deeper dives into specific artists or periods
Note: Some special exhibitions require separate tickets or supplements. Check when booking.
✨ Bonus Tips
11. Download Museum Apps Before Visiting: Save mobile data and avoid slow museum WiFi
12. Bring Water Bottle: Sealed bottles allowed, staying hydrated prevents fatigue
13. Visit Weekday Mornings: Consistently quietest times
14. Use Museum Restrooms: Clean, free, and always available
15. Check Museum Shops: Best art books and unique souvenirs in Amsterdam
16. Save Energy: Don't try to see every single artwork - focus on what interests you most
Ready for Your Museum Visit?
Book your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable art experience
Book Museum TicketsCommon Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Showing up without pre-booked tickets
- ❌ Bringing large bags or backpacks
- ❌ Wearing uncomfortable shoes
- ❌ Trying to visit 3+ museums in one day
- ❌ Not using audio guides or apps
- ❌ Arriving late for your time slot
- ❌ Using flash photography
- ❌ Skipping temporary exhibitions