Visit the Rijksmuseum: diving into the heart of the largest museum in the Netherlands

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum is a must-see museumabounding as much for the masterpieces it houses as for its architecture. This iconic museum, which attracts millions of visitors every year, traces more than 800 years of history through its fascinating collections. Discover the history of the Rijksmuseum, its major works and all the practical information you need to organise your visit.

The history of the Rijksmuseum

The project to create the museum was born in 1798 when the Dutch government had ambitions to create a national museum based on the French model. The Rijksmuseum came into being in 1800 not in Amsterdam but in The Hague under the name “Nationale Kunstgalerij” (National Art Museum), presenting 200 works from the collections of national institutions.

In 1808, under the reign of Louis Bonaparte, Napoleon’s brother, the museum was moved to Amsterdam and installed in the Royal Palace, and the collections were enriched with the city’s most important paintings such as The Night Watch by Rembrandt.

At a time when major art galleries were being built all over Europe, the Netherlands also wanted to have a major institution of its own. It was in 1885 that it found its current location in an imposing building designed by architect Pierre Cuypers, combining neo-Gothic style and Renaissance influences.

After a major ten-year renovation, the museum reopened in 2013, modernised and refurbished to offer an immersive and accessible experience to visitors from all over the world. Today, the Rijksmuseum is one of the most prestigious museums in Europe, bringing together more than a million art objects.

The 3 masterpieces not to be missed at the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum houses priceless treasures, particularly works from the Dutch Golden Age. Here are 3 must-sees to admire during your visit:

1. The Night Watch – Rembrandt (1642) The Rijksmuseum has many paintings by Rembrandt, but its absolute masterpiece is this monumental painting depicting a company of militiamen emerging from a building in arms. Its masterful use of light and movement made it a revolutionary work for its time. The painting is currently undergoing a major restoration campaign in public view, so you can watch the restorers at work in a dedicated room.

2. The Milkmaid – Johannes Vermeer (circa 1660) This iconic painting, depicting a maid pouring milk, embodies the beauty of everyday life. The precision of its details and its use of light make it a pinnacle of Dutch art.

3. The Swan in Danger – Asselijn (c. 1650) This striking work is a political allegory of the grandfather Johan de Witt defending the country from his enemies.

One of the most beautiful libraries in the world

The Cuypers Library is one of the largest and oldest art history libraries in the Netherlands. Located within the museum, it houses an impressive collection of books, manuscripts, catalogues and archives specialising in the art and history of the Netherlands.

Although it is not open to the general public, you can admire it from a balcony and discover its architecture, with its high wooden shelves and studious atmosphere.

The Rijksmuseum’s temporary exhibitions

Every year, the Rijksmuseum presents several temporary exhibitions of international stature. As I write this article and until 9 June 2025, you will be able to see American Photography, an unprecedented immersion that traces the history of photography in the United States from the 19th century to the present day with striking images of major historical events but also intimate snapshots of everyday life.

A Michelin-starred restaurant in the museum

The RIJKS, the museum’s restaurant, is a must-try. Chef Joris Bijdendijk offers a real culinary experience, working with local produce served in a cosy environment.

The chef’s signature dish, the millefeuille of beetroot strips served in a beurre blanc sauce, is to die for. At RIJKS, art isn’t just in the museum it’s also on your plate! – Booking recommended several weeks in advance: https://www.rijksrestaurant.nl/

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Practical information for visiting the Rijksmuseum

This article is the result of an invitation from the Rijksmuseum, however I remain completely free with my words, so the opinions mentioned in this article are entirely sincere.

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