The Rijksmuseum in 2 hours: the essential route
Quick answer
In 2 hours you can see the Rijksmuseum highlights in this order: the second floor with the Gallery of Honour, home to Rembrandt's The Night Watch, Vermeer's The Milkmaid and Frans Hals; then Jan Steen, the ships and dolls' houses, and the library. Arrive at 9:00 with a booked slot.
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The route: 8 stops in 2 hours
Rooms can change for loans or restorations; the floor plan at the entrance will say so. Timings are approximate and include walking.
- 1
0:00 · Second floor · Gallery of Honour
The Night Watch (Rembrandt)
Start with the star painting at the end of the Gallery of Honour. Approach slowly: Captain Banninck Cocq seems to step out of the canvas.
- 2
0:20 · Gallery of Honour
The Milkmaid (Vermeer)
A domestic scene of almost magical light. Look at the stream of milk and the bread.
- 3
0:35 · Gallery of Honour
Frans Hals and group portraits
The joy of the Golden Age in his militia portraits and festive characters.
- 4
0:50 · Second floor
Jan Steen and everyday life
Scenes of chaotic households that gave rise to the phrase "a Jan Steen household".
- 5
1:05 · Ground floor
Ships and dolls' houses
17th-century ship models and dolls' houses with astonishing detail.
- 6
1:25 · Ground floor
Asian pavilion and medieval art
If you have time, a quick look at medieval sculpture or the Asian pavilion.
- 7
1:40 · Second floor
The Cuypers Library
Finish in the building's grand library, one of the museum's most photogenic rooms.
- 8
1:55 · Atrium
Coffee and rest
Close with a coffee under the glass atrium.
Tips to make the most of it
- Enter at 9:00: the first hour is the quietest in front of The Night Watch.
- Book a slot on the official site; without a ticket you can't count on entry in high season.
- Leave coats and large backpacks in the cloakroom.
- Point the AnyArt camera at any painting not on this list to hear its story.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see the Rijksmuseum in 2 hours?
Yes, if you focus on the Gallery of Honour and a couple of rooms. It's a very condensed visit.
What about 1 hour?
Prioritise The Night Watch, The Milkmaid and Frans Hals in the Gallery of Honour. That's about 60 minutes.
Where is The Night Watch?
In the Gallery of Honour, on the second floor, at the end of the museum's main axis.
Is it worth visiting late in the day?
Yes, after 15:00 there are fewer tour groups. The museum closes at 17:00.