Rijksmuseum Tickets & Timed Entry: The Smart Way to Visit and Avoid Peak Crowds

Last updated: January 2026

The Rijksmuseum is Amsterdam’s essential museum: Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, the Gallery of Honour, and Rembrandt’s The Night Watch under one roof. It’s also one of the city’s busiest attractions. Choosing the right ticket type and entry time can easily save you 30–60 minutes compared with turning up unprepared.

This guide is written for real visitors. It explains how Rijksmuseum tickets and timed entry actually work, which option fits different travel styles, and how to plan your visit for fewer crowds and more time with the art.

What “Skip-the-Line” Really Means at the Rijksmuseum

At the Rijksmuseum, “skip-the-line” does not mean bypassing security. It means:

• you already have a ticket, and
• you already have a reserved entry time.

Most queues form because visitors arrive without a booking or with flexible tickets during peak hours. A timed-entry ticket lets you enter at a specific time window, avoiding the longest waits and protecting your schedule.

Is It Worth Booking Rijksmuseum Tickets in Advance?

For most visitors, yes. Advance booking is strongly recommended if:

• you are visiting on a weekend
• you are travelling during school holidays
• you are visiting between April and September
• you want a specific morning or midday time slot

Same-day tickets sometimes exist in quieter months, but availability is unpredictable. If the Rijksmuseum is a highlight of your Amsterdam trip, booking ahead is the safest option.

Rijksmuseum Ticket Prices (What to Expect)

Prices vary slightly by season and ticket type, but these are typical ranges:

• Standard adult ticket: around €22–€25
• Under 18: free (timed entry still required)
• Guided tours: higher price, depending on group size and duration

Audio or multimedia guides are sometimes included or offered as an add-on. Always check what’s included before booking.

Rijksmuseum Opening Hours

The Rijksmuseum is generally open daily, usually from around 09:00 to 17:00. Hours can change for special events, holidays, or exhibitions, so always confirm the opening times shown for your selected date when reserving your ticket.

How Timed Entry Works

Timed entry is simple, but details matter:

• Your ticket is linked to a specific start time.
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early. This allows time for ticket scanning and security.
• Security checks apply. Large bags may be restricted.

Once inside, you can stay as long as you like until closing. There is no exit time limit, which makes early entry especially valuable.

How Long Should You Plan for a Visit?

The Rijksmuseum is large, and rushing reduces the experience.

• 1.5–2 hours: highlights only
• 2.5–3 hours: comfortable first visit
• 4 hours or more: in-depth visit including quieter galleries

If you have limited time, focus on the Gallery of Honour and one additional theme rather than trying to see everything.

Rijksmuseum Ticket Types Explained

Standard Timed-Entry Ticket

Ideal for most visitors.

• Reserved entry time
• Access to the permanent collection
• Access to temporary exhibitions included with general admission

Timed Entry with Audio or Multimedia Guide

A good balance between flexibility and context.

• Clear explanations of key works
• Self-paced visit
• Excellent for first-time visitors

Guided Tour (Small Group or Private)

Best if time is limited or you want expert storytelling.

• Structured highlights route
• Historical and artistic context
• No need to plan your own itinerary

Museum Cards and City Passes

Some Amsterdam passes include admission, but a timed entry reservation is usually still required. Always secure your time slot as early as possible, especially in high season.

Which Rijksmuseum Ticket Is Best for You?

Ticket type	Best for	Main benefit	Considerations
Standard timed entry	Most visitors	Best value and flexibility	Interior crowds at peak hours
Timed entry + audio guide	First-time visitors	More meaning without a group	Slightly longer visit time
Guided tour	Short stays, art lovers	Fast understanding	Higher cost, fixed pace

Where Is the Rijksmuseum and How Do You Get There?

The Rijksmuseum is located on Museumplein, next to the Van Gogh Museum and near the Stedelijk Museum. It is easy to reach by:

• tram
• walking from central neighbourhoods
• cycling (bike parking nearby)

Museumplein is ideal for planning a half or full museum day without losing time in transit.

What to Expect on Arrival

1. Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
2. Have your mobile or printed ticket ready.
3. Pass through a brief security check.
4. Enter and head directly to your planned first gallery.

A Simple Highlights Route (Without Burnout)

• Start with the Gallery of Honour.
• Spend unhurried time with The Night Watch.
• Choose one theme: Dutch masters, maritime history, or decorative arts.
• Finish in quieter galleries.

Common Mistakes That Cost Time

• booking the busiest midday slot
• arriving exactly at entry time with no buffer
• trying to see the entire museum too quickly
• leaving the Gallery of Honour until later

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Rijksmuseum tickets at the door?

Sometimes, but availability is not guaranteed during busy periods. Booking ahead is safer.

Do children need tickets?

Children under 18 usually enter free, but they still need a timed entry reservation.

How early should I arrive?

Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled time.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning is consistently the quietest, followed by late afternoon.

Final Advice

The Rijksmuseum is most enjoyable when your first hour is calm. Book a timed-entry ticket, aim for an early slot, and start with the highlights. You’ll spend less time navigating crowds and more time appreciating one of Europe’s greatest museums.