Amsterdam is a city of art and culture, home to some of the world’s most renowned museums.
Among them, the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum stand out as must-visit destinations for art enthusiasts.
Whether you’re captivated by the timeless masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age or intrigued by bold modern and contemporary works, these two museums offer distinct and complementary experiences.
This article compares each museum’s highlights, practical details, and unique offerings to help you decide which to visit.
Quick Overview
If you’re a classic art fan, especially from the Dutch Golden Age, you should visit the Rijksmuseum.
If you prefer modern and contemporary art, the Stedelijk Museum is a better choice.
While the Rijksmuseum exhibits artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, etc., Stedelijk Museum showcases masters such as Van Gogh, Chagall, Matisse, Warhol, etc.
Both museums can get very crowded. You will need to purchase tickets online for both museums in advance.
| Features | Rijksmuseum | Stedelijk Museum |
|---|---|---|
| Hours | 9 am to 5 pm | 10 am to 6 pm |
| Last entry | 4.30 pm | 5.45 pm |
| Duration of visit | 4 to 5 hours | 60 minutes |
| Location | Museumstraat 1 | Museumplein 10 |
| Best time to visit | 9 am or 3 pm | 10 am or 4 pm |
| Cost of tickets | From €25 | From €23 |
| Purchase | Buy Tickets | Buy Tickets |
About Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the pinnacle of Dutch history and art, and showcases 8,000 exhibits spanning 800 years.
It is renowned for its collection of masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s Night Watch, Vermeer’s Milkmaid, and Jan Steen’s The Merry Family.
Compared to the Stedelijk Museum, the Rijksmuseum has a broader historical scope, making it ideal for those interested in a mix of fine art and history.
In addition to paintings, visitors can explore unique collections featuring ship models, Delft Blue pottery, jewelry, and historical clothing.
Modern Dutch art finds a home on the top floor, featuring works by Piet Mondrian and other De Stijl pioneers.
Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Last entry: 4.30 pm
Duration of visit: 4 to 5 hours
Official website: Rijksmuseum.nl
You can opt for the Standard entry ticket and explore the Rijksmuseum at your own pace. To make the most of your visit, a 2-hour guided tour offers a more structured experience. If you prefer a personalized approach, opt for the semi-private guided tour. The Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum combo is popular with tourists who prefer a guided tour of the attractions next to each other.
About Stedelijk Museum
The Stedelijk Museum, also in Amsterdam, stands as the Netherlands’ foremost institution for modern and contemporary art.
While the Rijksmuseum showcases tradition and heritage, the Stedelijk is about pushing boundaries and exploring new artistic expressions.
Its permanent collection emphasizes Dutch movements such as De Stijl and COBRA, while its temporary exhibitions spotlight international innovations of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The museum also enriches visitors’ experiences with art lectures, guided tours, and a well-curated shop featuring books on modern art and Dutch design.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Last entry: 5.45 pm
Duration of visit: 60 minutes
Official website: Stedelijk.nl
If you prefer to explore the Stedelijk Museum on your own, then opt for the entry ticket. For a scenic and artistic experience, the Stedelijk Museum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise ticket is a great option. If you’re a devoted fan of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, the Van Gogh Museum + Stedelijk Museum combo lets you dive into two distinct yet fascinating art collections.
Why not visit both the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum?
Visiting the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam offers the ultimate blend of classic and contemporary art.
The Rijksmuseum immerses you in the timeless works of Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer, while the Stedelijk Museum introduces you to groundbreaking modern and contemporary pieces by icons like Mondrian and Kandinsky.
With the I Amsterdam City Card, you can explore both museums and other must-see attractions, including a canal cruise and more, in one convenient and affordable package.
It’s the perfect way to experience Amsterdam’s rich artistic and cultural heritage—don’t miss out on these two iconic museums!
