Help
A short collection of visitor questions we receive most often. If yours is not here, the information line on the contact page can help.
When is the museum open?
Daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Last entry is 16:30; galleries close ten minutes before posted closing time.
Can I take photos inside the galleries?
Hand-held photography without flash is allowed in the permanent collection. Tripods, selfie-sticks and commercial photography require an advance permit.
Are the galleries accessible by wheelchair?
All public galleries are lift-accessible. Wheelchairs and folding stools may be borrowed at the cloakroom on a first-come basis. Service dogs are welcome.
How long does a typical visit take?
First-time visitors usually spend between two and three hours. Two hours is enough for the Gallery of Honour plus one side wing; three hours covers a temporary exhibition as well.
Are large bags allowed inside?
Backpacks over 30 litres and large bags must be left at the cloakroom. The cloakroom is free of charge and located near the main entrance.
Is food served on site?
Yes — there are two cafés on the ground floor (Atrium and Garden) and a small café in the Asian Pavilion. Outside food and drink may not be consumed in the galleries.
What is the best time to visit if I want quiet rooms?
Wednesday and Thursday mornings between 09:00 and 11:00 are reliably calm. Sunday afternoons and school-holiday weeks are the busiest periods.
Are guided tours available in English?
Yes. English tours leave at 11:00, 13:00 and 14:30 daily. Each tour lasts 60–90 minutes and starts from the central atrium near the main staircase.
How do I get to Museumplein by public transport?
Tram 2 and 12 stop at “Rijksmuseum”, two minutes from the entrance. From Centraal Station the walk through the Museum District takes about 25 minutes.
Are the museum gardens free to enter?
Yes. The four exterior gardens around the building are free to enter and open year-round. The South Garden has the longest hours and is the quietest.
Is there a cloakroom?
Yes, free of charge, near the main entrance. All bags over 30 litres must be checked in. Umbrellas and large coats also belong there.
Where can I find practical information for first-time visitors?
The visitor handbook covers transit, accessibility, family routes and a suggested two-hour itinerary through the most rewarding parts of the collection.