Van Gogh Museum Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum


Delve into the life of this legendary troubled artist with this unique collection of works and mementoes.

At the Van Gogh Museum, you’ll find the largest collection in the world of this famous Dutch artist’s paintings and drawings. Discover how his style evolved, reflecting the key events in his short, but troubled life. The museum also displays a collection of pieces by Van Gogh’s contemporaries, giving visitors an overview of other well-known masters of the 19th century.

Born in 1853, Vincent Van Gogh didn’t start painting until the age of 27. He was incredibly prolific in the decade that followed. Battling with serious mental health problems, he produced over 2,000 paintings, drawings and etchings before he tragically took his own life, shooting himself in 1890. During his lifetime, he only sold one of his paintings. Sadly, he never got to appreciate the impact his work would have on the world.

Discover how the artist’s style reflects his changing moods, as he moves from the town of Nuenen in Holland, to France, first to Paris then the southern provinces. His earlier works are predominantly dark and sombre, in contrast to those produced during his time in Arles in France. His studies of bright sunflowers have become some of the most reproduced and well-loved images associated with the artist.

Amongst his many self-portraits, one of the most recognisable is his 1889 work “Self-portrait with Bandaged Ear”. During a heated argument, he threatened his close friend, and renowned artist, Gauguin with a razor. His subsequent torment and regret led him to cut off part of his left ear.

The museum first opened in 1973, housing the many works on loan from the Van Gogh Trust. As well as the paintings and drawings on display, you will also see some of Van Gogh’s personal effects and correspondence. The resources in the Museum Library next door will provide you with detailed background information on the artist. There are also temporary displays on themes in 19th century art in the oval Exhibition Wing that was added in 1999.

The Van Gogh Museum is located on the Museumplein, to the south of the city centre, and can easily be reached by public transport. Parking spaces are limited in this area. The museum is open daily, but do check the official website for exact times. Entrance to the temporary exhibitions is normally included in the general ticket price. Please remember that photography is not permitted.

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Top Van Gogh Museum Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American

4.5 out of 5
Leidsekade, 97, Amsterdam, North Holland
Clayton Hotel Amsterdam American
Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection

4.5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 25, Amsterdam
Park Centraal Amsterdam, part of Sircle Collection
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel

4 out of 5
Pieter Cornelisz. Hooftstraat 2, Amsterdam
Leonardo Boutique Museumhotel
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

5 out of 5
Stadhouderskade 12, Amsterdam
Amsterdam Marriott Hotel
The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel

The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel

2 out of 5
Vossiusstraat 46, Amsterdam
The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel
THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam

THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam

2 out of 5
Weteringschans 67, Amsterdam, Noord Holland
THE FRITZ HOTEL Amsterdam
Hilton Amsterdam

Hilton Amsterdam

5 out of 5
Apollolaan 138, Amsterdam
Hilton Amsterdam
Hotel City Garden Amsterdam

Hotel City Garden Amsterdam

3 out of 5
162 P.C. Hooftstraat, Amsterdam
Hotel City Garden Amsterdam
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy

3.5 out of 5
53 Vossiusstraat, Amsterdam, North Holland
Park House Hotel Museum Quarter, Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Van Gogh Museum

When visiting the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, take time to enjoy leisurely strolls around the area, explore highlighted places, and catch free concerts nearby. You can also indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the flower market and consider biking through the scenic streets. With the combination of art and culture, there's plenty to keep you entertained during your visit!

Shopping

For unique gifts, stroll to the Albert Cuyp Market, only 805m away, offering vibrant city vibes. The Flower Market, 1.1km away, features beautiful blooms. If you're up for a drive, De Hallen, 1.3km away, combines shopping with entertainment for the whole family.

Recreation

At the Concertgebouw, enjoy world-class music performances that uplift your spirits, just a short stroll from the Van Gogh Museum. For a more energetic experience, visit the Olympic Stadium, where you can soak in the vibrant sports atmosphere. Paradiso also offers engaging concerts, enhancing your cultural retreat.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Circuit Park Zandvoort, located 24.1km from the Van Gogh Museum. For a fast-paced adventure, try karting at Bleekemolens Race Planet Amsterdam, just 8.0km away. You can also ride the waves at Surfschool Zandvoort, also 24.1km away, for an exciting water sports experience.

Nightlife

In Amsterdam, the Royal Theater Carre offers a captivating cultural experience just 1.6km from the Van Gogh Museum, while DeLaMar Theater, only 644m away, showcases remarkable performances. For a unique twist, the House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience is right next door, blending entertainment and romance.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Van Gogh Museum

While visiting the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, take the time to explore the surrounding attractions, including the vibrant piazzaSquare and other art museums. These points of interest provide a rich cultural experience for families and city explorers alike, ensuring a memorable trip filled with art and history.

  • Dam Square: Experience the vibrant heart of Amsterdam at Dam Square, a lively piazza filled with street performers and historic architecture. Enjoy the atmosphere as you explore nearby cafes and shops, making it a perfect spot to soak up the local culture.
  • Rijksmuseum: Just a short stroll from the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum showcases an impressive collection of Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of the Netherlands in this magnificent cultural institution.
  • Anne Frank House: Visit the poignant Anne Frank House, where the young diarist penned her famous journal. This museum offers a deeply moving insight into history and resilience, making it a must-see for those wishing to reflect on the past.

Best time to go to Van Gogh Museum

The best time to visit Van Gogh Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April49.1°F (9.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Van Gogh Museum

For a budget-friendly trip to the Van Gogh Museum, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Monday for the best rates. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and filter for eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Embrace local free activities like exploring parks or markets, and consider renting a bicycle for affordable transport around Amsterdam. This way, you can enjoy your holiday without breaking the bank!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Van Gogh Museum are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Van Gogh Museum about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Van Gogh Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Van Gogh Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay near the Van Gogh Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.