The Rijksmuseum is the largest museum in the Netherlands and houses 800 years of Dutch art and history, including artworks by prominent artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer & Van Gogh. Spanning 80 galleries, the Rijksmuseum is also home to Rembrandt's The Night Watch, Vermeer's The Milkmaid, Van Gogh's Self Portrait, and Frans Hals' The Merry Drinker, among other masterpieces.

There are a few things you need to be aware of during your visit. Read on to learn about the various Rijksmusem rules and regulations to be followed.

Rijksmuseum Rules & Regulations

Dress Code

There is no mandatory dress code that visitors must follow. However, inappropriate clothing is not allowed.

Food and Drinks

Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. Eating is restricted in the galleries. There is a restaurant and cafe inside the museum that you can visit.

Pets and Guide Dogs

No pets are allowed in the Rijksmuseum except for service animals. However, their entry is limited to only certain areas of the museum.

Parking

Free parking is available on some of the streets nearby, such as Johannes Vermeerstraat, Pieter de Hoochstraat, and Jan Luijkenstraat streets.

Getting to the Rijksmuseum

Forbidden Items

Numerous items are forbidden from being taken into the museum. This includes sharp objects such as knives, any kind of firearms, and blunt objects that can be used as weapons. Large bags and photography equipment such as lighting, tripods, or props are also not allowed inside the museum.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all the areas of the Rijksmuseum. If you wish, you can smoke outside the premises.

Photography

Personal photography using only hand-held cameras or phones is permitted within the Rijksmuseum. However, please avoid any equipment, such as lighting, tripods, selfie sticks, or props that could inconvenience the experience of other visitors. Flash photography is also restricted at the Rijksmuseum. Professional photographers will be required to complete an application for commercial photography within the Rijksmuseum.

Personal Belongings

There is a free, supervised cloakroom on the premises of the Rijksmuseum where you can leave your bags, umbrellas, or backpacks. However, the cloakroom does not store larger items such as large bags, travel luggage, folding bikes, musical instruments, or skateboards. You can store such items at the Lockerpoint at the Museum Square.

Research Library and Study Room

Access to the Rijksmuseum Research Library and Study Room prints and drawings are allowed provided you have a valid proof of identity, material requested in advance, and a workspace reservation.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside.
Bags, umbrellas, and coats are required to be stored in either the lockers or the cloakroom, both of which are free.
You cannot bring your own books into the Research Library.
You will receive instructions on how to handle sensitive collections at the Rijksmuseum.
You are allowed to take pictures or scan materials for your personal use. However, you will require permission to take photos of or scan papers or other vulnerable materials.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Rijksmuseum Rules & Regulations

What facilities are present at the Rijksmuseum?

The Rijksmuseum is wheelchair accessible and also provides tactile guides, sign language guided tours, and guided tours for special needs children. Service animals are allowed inside. The museum also has accessible restrooms, Wi-Fi access, cloakroom facilities, a gift shop, a cafe, and a restaurant.

Can I carry food and drinks inside the Rijksmuseum?

Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the Rijksmuseum. You can grab a bite at the cafe or restaurant inside the museum but you are not allowed to carry your food or drinks into the galleries.

Can I take my pet inside the Rijksmuseum?

Pets are not allowed inside the Rijksmuseum. However, service dogs are allowed inside.

Are guide dogs allowed inside the Rijksmuseum?

Yes, guide dogs are allowed inside the Rijksmuseum.

What should I wear to the Rijksmuseum

You can wear any type of clothing to the Rijksmuseum. There is no dress code to be followed.

Is there a restroom at the Rijksmuseum?

Yes, there are multiple accessible restrooms present at the Rijksmuseum.

Is photography permitted at the Rijksmuseum?

Yes, photography for personal use is permitted inside the Rijksmuseum using hand-held devices. Flash photography, props, lighting, and tripods, however, cannot be used. Professional photographers need to fill out an application for photography for commercial purposes with the Rijksmuseum.

Do I need ID proof to enter the Rijksmuseum?

No, there is no need to carry an ID to enter the Rijksmuseum unless you are eligible for free or discounted entry into the museum. Entry is free for ages 18 and under and for Friends of Rijksmuseum, holders of I Amsterdam City Card, ICOM, Vereniging Rembrandt, KOG, VVAK, and VriendenLoterij VIP-KAART. Tickets are available at half-price for CJP and EYCA members.

Is there parking at the Rijksmuseum?

Yes, there are free parking facilities available on nearby streets, such as Johannes Vermeerstraat, Pieter de Hoochstraat, and Jan Luijkenstraat.

Is smoking permitted at the Rijksmuseum?

No, smoking is not permitted inside the Rijksmuseum You will have to go outside the museum if you want to smoke.