Van Gogh Museum Practical Info – Hours, Rules, Accessibility

Art is more enjoyable when you’re not worrying about bags, photos, or toilets. Here's the practical side of visiting the Van Gogh Museum in one place.

Opening hours (and how to read them)

The museum typically opens every day, with hours like:

• Roughly 09:00–17:00 on most days
• Extended hours (e.g. 22:00) on selected evenings or seasons

Always check the official calendar for:

• Special late openings
• Holiday changes
• Periods of higher demand (school holidays, major events)

⏰ Time zone reminder:
Times are local (CET/CEST). If you’re planning from abroad, make sure your calendar app doesn’t auto‑shift your booking time.

Bags, lockers, and security

Security is efficient but firm.

Allowed inside (as a rule of thumb):

• Small daypacks worn on your front or hand‑held
• Handbags
• Light coats and scarves

Usually not allowed:

• Large backpacks
• Suitcases and cabin trolleys
• Umbrellas with sharp tips

Lockers or cloakroom options are available near the entrance. Keep with you:

• Wallet and passport
• Phone and camera
• Medicine and essentials

Photography rules

Most visitors want at least one “I was there” photo.

General patterns are:

• Photos for personal use are allowed in many areas.
• No flash and no tripods/large gear.
• Some temporary exhibitions may have stricter rules.

📷 Museum etiquette:
Take a few photos, then put your phone away for entire rooms. Give at least some works your full attention.

Accessibility and comfort

The Van Gogh Museum aims to be broadly accessible:

• Lifts connect the floors.
• There are seats and benches in many rooms.
• Wheelchairs and rollators are generally welcome.

Ask staff for:

• The easiest step‑free routes between specific rooms.
• Locations of accessible toilets.
• Borrowable folding stools, if available.

Food, drinks, and toilets

• You can’t eat or drink in the galleries (except water bottles where allowed).
• There is usually a café area where you can sit and refuel before/after.
• Toilets are available near the entrance and between levels – use them strategically.

Pack a small kit:

• Refillable water bottle
• Light snack for before/after the visit
• Travel tissues/hand gel

Quick checklist before you leave your hotel

• Tickets screenshotted or printed
• Bag size within museum limits
• Portable charger if you rely on your phone
• Layers to handle indoor climate vs outside weather

Sort out these details early, and the only thing you’ll need to hold on to in the museum is the art itself.