If you’re a fan of Vincent van Gogh, a visit to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam is a must. This guide explains how to book tickets in advance, offers tips for visiting at less crowded times, and highlights several standout works you should seek out during your visit. The Van Gogh Museum is one of Amsterdam’s top cultural attractions—plan ahead to make the most of your time there.
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How to visit the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
Visiting is straightforward if you plan ahead. Arrive at the museum’s main entrance at your scheduled time and show your pre-booked ticket. A printed ticket is not required—most visitors simply present the QR code on their phone for scanning at the entrance.
Book tickets in advance to guarantee entry.
When to visit the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
The museum is open most days of the year. Its popularity means galleries can become crowded, so timing your visit matters if you prefer a quieter experience.
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting during the off-season (for example, November or January) and aim for an afternoon slot two to three hours before closing. Even so, pre-booking your time slot is essential.
Advance booking is recommended to secure your preferred time.
Book your tickets to the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
Because the Van Gogh Museum ranks among Amsterdam’s top attractions, tickets often sell out. Purchasing a timed entry ticket ahead of your trip ensures you won’t miss the chance to visit. Tickets are rarely available at the door on busy days.
Reserve your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Our favorite paintings at the Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
Taste is personal, but here are several works that consistently draw attention and were highlights on our recent visit. Take time to appreciate the brushwork, color, and the stories behind these pieces.
View of a Butcher’s Shop, 1888
Painted shortly after Van Gogh moved to Arles, this work captures a butcher shop that he could see from his room at the Carrel hotel and restaurant. It marks the beginning of an important period in his Arles production.
Sprig of Flowering Almond in a Glass, 1888
Arriving in Arles in early spring, Van Gogh painted almond blossoms he had gathered despite lingering frost. This work is part of a larger series of orchard paintings—pear, plum, peach and almond trees—that celebrate renewal and delicate color.
Sunflowers, 1889
One of Van Gogh’s most iconic images, Sunflowers were painted during his time in the south of France. He created several versions; these bright, textured compositions symbolized gratitude for him and remain some of his most celebrated works.
Gauguin’s Chair, 1888
This painting represents Van Gogh’s friend Paul Gauguin through the symbolism of a chair. Van Gogh contrasted Gauguin’s “night” with another chair he painted in blues and yellows representing his own “day.” The pair offers insight into their personalities and artistic relationship.
Self-Portrait with Pipe and Straw Hat, 1887
This self-portrait reflects Impressionist influences in its light palette and brushwork. Van Gogh often painted himself out of necessity—models were costly—resulting in a striking series of self-portraits that document his evolving style and mood.
Self-Portrait as a Painter, 1887
Created near the end of Van Gogh’s Paris period, this self-portrait captures his state at the time—mentally and physically worn by the city—and reveals the introspective honesty that characterizes many of his works.
Montmartre in the Snow, Auguste Lepère, 1876
Among the museum’s permanent collection are works by other artists as well. This snowy view of Montmartre by Auguste Lepère evokes the charm of Paris under a blanket of snow and is a lovely complement to Van Gogh’s pieces.
Don’t forget to book your entry time in advance to ensure you can see these highlights.
Museum Address
Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
Where to stay in Amsterdam
- The Pulitzer – A charming boutique hotel made from canal houses, with canal-view rooms, a cozy bar, and an elegant restaurant.
- The Dylan – An upscale, stylish hotel in the heart of the city with refined dining and a polished atmosphere.
- Eden Hotel Amsterdam – A well-appointed 4-star boutique option that offers good value and attractive décor.
- NH City Centre Amsterdam – A dependable choice for comfortable, centrally located accommodations.
Don’t miss these other activities in Amsterdam!
- Canal cruise with cheese and wine – A relaxing way to explore Amsterdam’s canals while sampling local cheese and wine.
- Anne Frank House – A moving historical site that provides insight into Anne Frank’s life and diary.
- Rembrandt’s House – Visit the painter’s former home to learn about his life and artistic process.
More Amsterdam posts to help you plan your trip!
- 2 Days in Amsterdam — suggestions for what to see, where to stay, and what to eat.
- Rijksmuseum Amsterdam — essential information for planning a visit to the national museum.
- Monkey Bar Amsterdam (In’t Aepjen) — a recommended local spot.
Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
We hope you enjoy the Van Gogh Museum as much as we do. Which works are your favorites when you visit?
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