Quick info of Van Gogh Museum
- Location: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam.
- Opening hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Phone: +31 (0)20 570 5200
- Tickets: From €24 per person. Click here to purchase a ticket
Tip: Visit the museum from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM or after 3:00 PM. The busiest times are between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM
Van Gogh Museum highlights
The Van Gogh Museum opened its doors in 1973 and is actually made up of two buildings on Museumplein. The Rietveld building is the main gallery – the ground floor has a cafe and an introduction to the museum, while the first floor displays Van Gogh’s paintings in the order he created them.
The real star of the show is the permanent collection, with over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 letters by Van Gogh. Most of his work focuses on landscapes, portraits, and still life, and you can really see his unique style with those expressive brushstrokes and vibrant colours. Don’t miss iconic paintings like ‘The Potato Eaters’ (1885), ‘The Yellow House’ (1888), and ‘Sunflowers’ (1889).
The second floor is where you’ll find temporary exhibitions, and the top floor showcases works by artists who were around at the same time as Van Gogh, like the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. You can also see sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Jules Dalou, and paintings by names like Paul Gauguin, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, and Émile Bernard.
Did you know Van Gogh had a huge collection of Japanese prints? They really influenced his style. In 1999, the Kurokawa wing was added to the museum, and this three-storey building hosts major temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
The Van Gogh Museum even has a special programme called ‘Feeling Van Gogh’ for people with visual impairments. It includes an interactive tour of the permanent collection, a multi-sensory workshop, and the story of Van Gogh himself. You can even feel the brushstrokes on 3D replicas of ‘Sunflowers’ and ‘The Bedroom’, smell lavender or wet grass, and touch raised quotes from Van Gogh’s letters. It’s really quite something.
A place for art lovers
It’s like a treasure chest filled with the most incredible collection of Van Gogh’s paintings. You’ll get to see his famous sunflowers, starry nights, and self-portraits up close. It’s a chance to really connect with the mind of this amazing artist.
A collection beyond compare
The museum’s collection boasts over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 letters by Van Gogh. Each piece offers a unique perspective on the artist’s evolution, from his early, somber works to his later, more vibrant and expressive pieces. Visitors can trace Van Gogh’s artistic journey, from his humble beginnings to his tragic end.
Highlights of the collection
Some of the museum’s most celebrated pieces include:
- Sunflowers: This iconic series of paintings captures the vibrant beauty and fleeting nature of life.
- The Starry Night:Arguably Van Gogh’s most famous work, this swirling canvas depicts a fantastical night sky.
- Self-Portrait: This haunting self-portrait reveals the artist’s inner turmoil and emotional intensity.
- The Potato Eaters: This powerful portrayal of rural life in Nuenen, Netherlands, demonstrates Van Gogh’s early fascination with depicting the lives of ordinary people.
- The Bedroom: A personal and intimate depiction of Van Gogh’s bedroom in Arles, France, this painting offers a glimpse into the artist’s living space and his unique perspective.
- Wheatfield with Crows: Often considered Van Gogh’s final painting, this work with its swirling crows and ominous sky has been the subject of much speculation and interpretation.
Van Gogh Museum: A Must-visit for art enthusiasts
Whether you’re a dedicated Van Gogh fan or simply appreciate great art, the Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum’s thoughtfully curated exhibits and immersive atmosphere offer a truly unforgettable experience.
Frequently asked questions
- Are bags allowed?
The museum has a cloakroom available. Unfortunately, it’s not able to store large bags. - Do I need to buy a ticket for children?
No. Children under 18 enter for free but a ticket is required. - Can I cancel or reschedule my tickets?
Cancellation or rescheduling are not possible for this ticket.