Museumplein — The Big Three

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and only have time for one museum, I’m going to say something that sounds a little weird: go to the Rijksmuseum. Go to the Van Gogh Museum. And yes, the Stedelijk too. Not because they’re trendy or Instagrammable, but because they’re actually really good. My friend Sara once told me she stood in front of the Night Watch for twenty minutes and got emotional — and that’s not just a tourist story, that’s what happens when you’re in front of something truly iconic.

All three sit together on Museumplein in Oud-Zuid, which is the cultural heart of the city. The Rijksmuseum is where Dutch art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century lives, including Rembrandt’s Night Watch, Vermeer, and yes, Van Gogh too. The Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world, so walking through his career chronologically is a powerful experience. And the Stedelijk? That’s where you’ll find modern and contemporary art that’s pushing boundaries — it’s not just about what’s famous, it’s about what’s new.

Here’s the thing: you have to plan ahead. My neighbor’s parents once showed up without tickets and waited 90 minutes at Van Gogh. It’s not a joke. They still bring it up at Christmas. You really should buy your tickets online in advance — especially if you’re going to Van Gogh. I’m not exaggerating. It’s not just crowded, it’s sold out. The Rijksmuseum is also cashless now, so make sure you’ve got a card ready. And if you’re going on a weekday morning, you’ll have a better shot at avoiding the crowds.

Do not try to hit all three museums in one day. Trust me. You’ll be rushing from one to the next and you’ll miss the real moments. If you’re planning to do it anyway, I suggest starting with Rijksmuseum, then Van Gogh, and save Stedelijk for another day. It’s a lot to take in. The ticket price is around €25 per museum, but if you’re going to a lot of museums in the Netherlands, the Museumkaart is a good deal. It’s €65 for a year and gives you free entry to 400 museums — that’s a real saver if you’re planning more than a few days.

I’ve been to all three, and honestly, they’re all worth the effort. The Rijksmuseum has a free app that helps you navigate the galleries and even gives you audio descriptions. It’s a little extra, but I think it really helps you get more out of the experience. The Stedelijk is a bit smaller and more intimate, so it’s easier to take in everything. And Van Gogh? If you’re into art, you’ll want to see it. It’s not just a museum, it’s a journey through one of the most prolific artists in history.

There are downsides, though. The Van Gogh Museum is always packed, and it’s hard to find a good spot if you’re not early. Rijksmuseum is cashless now, which can be a pain if you’re not used to it. And all three are a bit of a hike from each other — especially if you’re walking in the rain or carrying a backpack. But if you’re visiting Amsterdam, these are the places you’ll want to see. Just book ahead, and don’t go on a Friday unless you’re ready to wait in line.

If you’re thinking about getting the Museumkaart, check if that deal’s still on — it’s a good one for travelers who are planning more than a few museums. But if you’re just doing the Big Three, then you’re going to want to book your tickets early. I mean, seriously, do it. It’s not just about avoiding lines, it’s about making sure you get the full experience without stress.

The square around the museums is free to walk in — you can even have a picnic at the nearby Albert Heijn if you’re feeling lazy. But the museums themselves? They’re serious. And they’re worth the effort.