The Van Gogh Museum with kids: a short route, games and tips
Quick answer
With kids, the Van Gogh Museum works as a 60–90 minute visit with simple missions: count the sunflowers, spot the colours in the bedroom and find the crows. Under 18s get in free but need an online slot. The best time is 9am on a weekday.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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A 75-minute route designed for kids
- 1
0:00 · Dutch period
The Potato Eaters: what's on the table?
Ask how the dark colours make them feel and what they imagine this family's dinner is like. It contrasts with what comes next.
- 2
0:15 · Paris period
Self-portraits: how many are there?
Van Gogh couldn't afford models, so he painted himself many times. Challenge: find three different self-portraits and compare the faces.
- 3
0:30 · Arles period
The Bedroom: draw your room
Look at the bed, chairs and pictures on the wall. Ask them to draw their own bedroom on a sheet using flat colours.
- 4
0:45 · Arles period
Sunflowers: count the flowers
Count how many flowers there are and which ones are wilting. The thick paint is visible even from a distance.
- 5
1:00 · Auvers-sur-Oise
Wheatfield with Crows: what's the weather?
Ask how they imagine the storm and how many crows there are. A good painting to finish calmly.
Practical tips for families
- Reserve a slot for under 18s even though they are free, and bring their ID.
- The museum has no lockers: travel light and check the stroller and bag policy before you go.
- Take a mid-visit break; there is a café in the building.
- No touching or standing too close to the paintings: explain before you go in.
- Before you go, let the kids pick 3 paintings on your phone; finding them turns the visit into a game.
- With the AnyArt app they can point at any painting and hear its story, handy for the endless "what's this one?".
Frequently asked questions
Do kids pay at the Van Gogh Museum?
No. Under 18s get in free, but they must reserve a time slot and carry ID.
What age is the museum good for?
From about 6 with a short visit and observation games. Teenagers often connect with Van Gogh's personal story.
Can I bring a stroller?
Check the stroller and bag policy on the official site before going; there are luggage size limits.
Are there family activities?
The museum offers materials and activities for children and families on specific dates; check the programme on the official site.