Museum Square
Amsterdam's cultural heart, home to iconic museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, surrounded by a vibrant public square.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Museum Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Amsterdam's cultural heart, home to iconic museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, surrounded by a vibrant public square.
"A must-visit for art lovers, offering a trifecta of world-class museums and a beautiful urban oasis."
Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry by booking your museum tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between museums and inside them. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rijksmuseum
Museum Square
Home to Dutch Masters like Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch'. A must-see for art lovers.
Van Gogh Museum
Museum Square
Explore the world's largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's paintings and drawings.
Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam
Museum Square
Discover modern and contemporary art and design from the 20th and 21st centuries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Museum Square
Getting Around Museum Square
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry by booking your museum tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between museums and inside them. :athletic_shoe:
Check for special exhibitions
Museums often have temporary exhibits that are worth planning around. :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the open space
The square itself is a great place to relax and people-watch. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tickets online
Save time and guarantee entry by booking your museum tickets in advance online. :ticket:
Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking between museums and inside them. :athletic_shoe:
Check for special exhibitions
Museums often have temporary exhibits that are worth planning around. :camerawithflash:
Enjoy the open space
The square itself is a great place to relax and people-watch. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Museum Square is a cultural gem, lauded for its world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Visitors appreciate the beautiful open space and seasonal attractions like ice skating. Some find the ticket prices for individual museums steep, and crowds can be significant during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Museum Square is easily reachable by public transport. Tram lines 2, 5, 12, and 24 stop nearby. If you're coming from Amsterdam Centraal Station, take tram 2 or 12. The square is also a pleasant walk from the Leidseplein area. :bus: :tram:
Yes, there is a Q-Park parking garage directly beneath Museum Square, offering convenient access to all the museums. However, it can be expensive. :car:
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular way to get around Amsterdam. There are plenty of bike racks available around the square. :bicycle:
The museums are all within easy walking distance of each other on Museum Square. It's a great way to experience the area. :walking:
Yes, Museum Square and its surrounding museums are generally accessible for wheelchairs. Many museums offer elevators and accessible restrooms. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum Square itself is a public space and free to enter. However, you will need separate tickets for each museum within the square (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, etc.). :ticket:
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance directly from the official websites of each museum. This helps avoid long queues and guarantees entry, especially for the Van Gogh Museum which often sells out. :computer:
Opening hours vary by museum. Generally, the museums are open from 9 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM daily, with some offering extended hours on certain days. Always check the specific museum's website for the most up-to-date information. :clock:
While there aren't typically combination tickets for all museums on Museum Square, you can often purchase a Museumkaart (Museum Card) if you plan to visit many museums in the Netherlands, which can offer significant savings. :moneybag:
It's possible to buy tickets on the day at some museums, but it's not guaranteed, especially for popular ones like the Van Gogh Museum. Booking ahead is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. :x:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary. The Rijksmuseum generally allows non-flash photography for personal use, but some special exhibitions may prohibit it. The Van Gogh Museum typically does not allow photography of the artworks. Always look for signage or ask staff. :camerawithflash:
The square itself offers great photo opportunities, especially with the iconic museums as backdrops. The reflecting pool in front of the Rijksmuseum and the open lawn areas are popular. :camera:
Yes, drone photography is generally not permitted in public spaces like Museum Square or around the museums due to privacy and safety regulations. :noentrysign:
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light and fewer crowds, making for more picturesque shots. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. :sunrise: :sunset:
Selfies are generally allowed in the public areas of Museum Square. Inside the museums, check for specific selfie stick policies, as they are often prohibited. :iphone:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, each museum has its own cafe or restaurant offering light meals, snacks, and drinks. There are also several cafes and restaurants surrounding Museum Square. :coffee: :sandwich:
You'll find a range of options from casual cafes serving sandwiches and pastries to more formal restaurants offering Dutch and international cuisine. :fries: :salad:
While you can't typically eat inside the museums, the open spaces of Museum Square are suitable for picnics, weather permitting. :bread: :cheese:
Look for smaller cafes or bakeries slightly off the main square for more affordable snacks and meals. Supermarkets are also a good option for picnic supplies. :euro:
Most museum cafes and surrounding restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff. :leafy_green:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Stedelijk Museum for its modern and often colorful exhibits that can capture a child's imagination. Outside the museums, the open space of Museum Square is perfect for kids to run around. During winter, the ice-skating rink is a huge hit with families. Remember to check museum websites for specific family programs and age recommendations.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the Stedelijk Museum for its significant collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol. Consider purchasing a Museumkaart if you plan to visit multiple Dutch museums during your trip, as it offers excellent value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Iconic Museums
The Van Gogh Museum boasts the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh in the world, offering an intimate look into the artist's life and evolution. It's a deeply moving experience to see his iconic paintings and drawings up close. Due to its immense popularity, booking tickets well in advance is crucial.
For lovers of modern and contemporary art and design, the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam is a must-visit. Its striking modern architecture is as impressive as the collection within, featuring works from the early 20th century to the present day.
The Square Itself: More Than Just a Passageway
In warmer months, the expansive lawn areas are perfect for picnics or simply lounging. The reflecting pool in front of the Rijksmuseum offers a picturesque spot for photos and a moment of calm. It's a place where locals and tourists alike gather, making it a lively hub.
Keep an eye out for temporary installations or events that often take place in the square, adding to its dynamic character. It’s a space that truly comes alive throughout the year, offering different experiences depending on the season.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit