Amsterdam continues to be one of the biggest spots in Europe for a trip. For a long time, people have been coming to this city for a good time whether that’s to partake in its legendary nightlife or simply enjoy the history of this beautiful Dutch city. On top of all that Amsterdam is home to some of the finest museums in Europe like Anne Frank Museum, and the Rijksmuseum which is one of the most visited museums in Europe. If you’re traveling through the city or the continent make sure to visit the Rijksmuseum, but before you do, make sure you’re prepared. Here is a guide to the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
Things to do
Take a guided tour
As one of the biggest museums and one of the most visited in Europe, the Rijksmuseum has tours for everyone. In fact, we recommend taking a couple of them because every tour is different, offering different perspectives and showing different works. For people traveling with their family, kid-friendly tours are available and for those interested in architecture, the Rijksmuseum building tour shows off the architectural marvel. Themed tours are also a great way to see and experience the museum while a Gilded Age fashion tour or drink and dining tour showcases the theme of dressing and food throughout the ages. Most tours are available in English and Dutch as well as some other languages like German or French.
Play a game
Although advertised as a game for families, it is really open to anyone. The Rijksmuseum hosts “Digital Family Game”, a fun activity that takes you all throughout the museum solving puzzles and mysteries. The game is for two to four people and should take about an hour to complete and if you succeed there’s a prize waiting for you at the end.
What to eat
The Café
If you fancy a drink or some lunch while you’re exploring the exhibits head over to The Café. The simply titled cafe is located right inside the museum and offers tons of great food for everyone, including your kids. The restaurant is located in the Atrium right above the museum shop. The Café has some of the best coffee and espresso around but their lunch menus are also pretty good featuring dishes with traditional Dutch tastes. Grab a piece of cake and coffee and relax in this exquisite restaurant conveniently located in the museum.
Rijks
If you’re looking for a more high-class dining experience at the museum then Rijks is the restaurant for you. Although located outside the museum, it is on the museum grounds about one minute walk away. When you walk in you’ll be greeted with beautiful huge ceilings and windows allowing great views of the museum and having tons of natural light. The restaurant is Michlin-starred and has a rotating selection of chefs aiming to “put the best on a plate”. The restaurant serves 130 people at a time with ingredients cultivated on Dutch soil.
Things to buy
Prints
Want a Vermeer in your living room? Or a Rembrandt in your kitchen? Well, you might be able to afford the real thing but you’ll at least be able to get yourself an official print. With different sizes and styles available you’ll be able to find your next favorite piece of art to hang in your home. Prices range from about 12 USD to 200 USD with options to include a frame or not.
Oils, candles, and tea
Coming from their Asian inspired exhibitions is their collection of oils, candles, and tea as well as other neat gifts to buy for yourself or for friends and families. Known as the “Rituals of Tsuru” you can even purchase a gift set to get a whole range of the collection. Bask in the warming glow of their candle set and take in the black pine and bonsai smell.
Travelers tips
Plan ahead
As one of the most popular museums around, try to plan your visit in advance. Buying your tickets in advance is a good way to skip the line and skip the crowds and speaking of crowds, try to visit on the “off days”. Weekends and periods of school vacations are usually the busiest so if you can, visit during a weekday. The absolute best way to avoid the crowds is to come in the mornings when it is less crowded as the middle of the day has the most people visiting (between 11 am and 3 pm)
Take advantage of their free apps
Visitors can download the official app on their phone before they visit and are encouraged to use it while they’re there because the free app has a wealth of information available that dives deep into the works.
How to get there
Public transport
Getting to the Rijksmuseum is very easy and Amsterdam has some of the best public transport around. If you’re coming from the airport directly the number 397 bus stops right in front of the museum and trams 2 and 12 also reach the museum from the central station. Metro 52 stops nearby as well at Vijzelgracht.
By car
Parking is available onsite in the underground parking lot but space is limited. There is also parking available nearby the museum on side streets.
How to book tickets
In person
Buying tickets can be done in person when you arrive at the museum box office. Ticketing information can be found on their website here.
Online
Buying your tickets in advance online is a great idea to skip the line and not have to wait to get in. Third-party sellers are also an option that might offer amenities like personal guides and the ability to skip the lines.
Book Tours : Amsterdam: Rijksmuseum Entry Ticket
Rijksmuseum information
Rijksmuseum
Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Official Website: Rijksmuseum
Department of Tourism: I Am Amsterdam
History
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