About Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum tells 800 years of Dutch art and history through 8,000 objects across 80 galleries, beautifully restored by Cruz y Ortiz in 2013.
Founded in 1800, Rijksmuseum has been welcoming visitors for over 226 years. Today it draws approximately 2,700,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited art & encyclopedic museums in the world. Located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, the museum holds a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 58,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Rijksmuseum ranks #8
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. At #8, Rijksmuseum sits firmly in our top tier — a museum that consistently appears on every credible "best museums in the world" list we track. Key recognitions include: European Museum of the Year 2015, TripAdvisor Top 10.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 2–4 hours, planning your route through Rijksmuseum is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆The Night Watch (Rembrandt)
- ◆The Milkmaid (Vermeer)
- ◆Self-portraits (Van Gogh)
- ◆Delftware collection
- ◆Asian Pavilion
- ◆Cuypers Library
Recognition & awards
Rijksmuseum has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Daily 9:00–17:00.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2–4 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Rijksmuseum is located in Amsterdam, Netherlands at coordinates 52.3600°N, 4.8852°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum was established in 1800, making it one of the oldest museums in the world. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Amsterdam. With 2,700,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Netherlands's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important art & encyclopedic museums in the Europe region.
Other top art & encyclopedic museums
If you enjoy art & encyclopedic museums like Rijksmuseum, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #1Musée du LouvreParis, France
- #2The Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, United States
- #3Vatican MuseumsVatican City, Vatican City
- #4British MuseumLondon, United Kingdom
- #5State Hermitage MuseumSaint Petersburg, Russia
More museums in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to 4 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Rijksmuseum with these nearby institutions:
- #21Van Gogh Museum🎭 Artist & Single-Subject
- #36Anne Frank House🕯️ Memorial & Remembrance
- #79Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam🎨 Modern & Contemporary
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Rijksmuseum?
Daily 9:00–17:00. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Rijksmuseum?
Most visitors recommend spending 2–4 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Rijksmuseum located?
Rijksmuseum is located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The exact coordinates are 52.3600°, 4.8852°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Rijksmuseum known for?
The Dutch Golden Age in one building. Key highlights include The Night Watch (Rembrandt), The Milkmaid (Vermeer), Self-portraits (Van Gogh). The museum holds a 4.8/5 rating from 58,000 reviews.
How many people visit Rijksmuseum each year?
Rijksmuseum receives approximately 2,700,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in Netherlands.
When was Rijksmuseum founded?
Rijksmuseum was founded in 1800, making it 226 years old. It is categorised as a art & encyclopedic museum in our directory.
